Issuu

YEARS

holeidnainy gs happ

YEARS

COMMUNITY NEWS

READ MORE ON PAGE 41

904-530-3301 www.closetsbydesign.com Call for a free in-home design consultation & estimate

Locally Owned & Operated | Licenses & Insured

2 |

PUBLISHERS Seth H. Williams seth@residentnews.net Pamela Bradford Williams pamela@residentnews.net SALES DIRECTOR Debra McGregor debra@residentnews.net ART DIRECTOR Jason Lindstrum GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Chris Gildersleeve Tricia Steele JOURNALIST/ DIGITAL EDITOR Michele Leivas michele@residentnews.net CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Susanna Barton Susan D. Brandenburg Julie Kerns Garmendia Fabrizio Gowdy Peggy Harrell Jennings Jennifer Jensen Holly Tishfield Lauren K. Weedon Joe Wilhelm, Jr. CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Matt Culpepper Quintez Simmons DISTRIBUTION Luis Perdomo

1650 Margaret St. #310 Jacksonville, FL 32204

904.388.8839 RESIDENTNEWS.NET

residentnewsjax circlescharitymag

HAVE A STORY TO SHARE Email us directly at editor@residentnews.net

The Resident is a monthly newspaper mailed to homeowners in Riverside, Avondale, Ortega, Murray Hill, San Marco, San Jose and St. Nicholas. For advertising information, please call 904.388.8839. Editorial submissions are welcome, but subject to editing at the publisher’s discretion. Facts and statements expressed in the editorial content are not necessarily those of The Resident. All content is copyrighted and may not be reprinted, copied or reproduced without written permission from the publisher. ©2025.

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

Publishers Note

Making Spirits Bright, One Story at a Time

A Note from The Resident Staff It’s that wonderful time of year again. Luminaria night, twinkling lights, wagging tails, kids on bikes and “sweata weatha” (finally!). We get to see it all! The porch parties, the galas, fun runs, school events, grand openings and those spontaneous moments that make these historic districts such special places. We’ve probably snapped a photo of your kids, your dog, your house – or maybe even you dressed to the nines at a charity gala! And we love every minute of it. As you celebrate, don’t forget to shop and dine local: Those neighborhood spots keep our streets vibrant and this newspaper landing right in your mailbox. Cheers to a joyful, cozy, and very local holiday season!

Letters TO THE EDITOR

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

I love your paper and have written to you before to compliment you. You provide more local news than any other source. Your coverage of local real estate development is thorough and well-researched. Each issue is informative, enriching, and fun to read. Many thanks to you and your writers. – John Ragsdale Your newspaper is outstanding. I am always amazed at how your team produces such a strong edition every month. I see your employees and Seth all over the community, capturing the moments that matter, and the volume and quality of the photos you publish is impressive. I read The Resident cover to cover every month and I look at all the advertisements to see what is going on, what is new and where to go to shop. You truly are the best newspaper in this city. – Tony Thompkins Sr.

Imagine your home, totally organized! Give the Gift of Organization! From Custom Closets, Laundry Rooms, Pantries & more...

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

DECEMBER 2025

Deegan Joins 230 Mayors in Signing Declaration Against Political Violence Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, along with 230 bipartisan mayors across 41 states, signed a declaration rejecting political violence and dehumanizing rhetoric. The declaration, named the Oklahoma City Declaration, was presented at the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum – the site of the deadliest instance of domestic political violence in the nation’s living memory – during the annual fall meeting for the U.S. Conference of Mayors. The U.S. Conference of Mayors announced the signing of the declaration on Monday, Oct. 28. The document includes a list of 10 tenets shared by the signatories, including the belief “that political violence in any form is unacceptable and should be met with the harshest condemnation and penalties.” “This declaration from America’s mayors comes at a pivotal time in our nation’s history,” said U.S. Conference of Mayors President and Mayor of Oklahoma City David Holt in an Oct. 28 press release. “If everyone in American political life affirmed their commitment to the principles found in this Declaration, we would see a dramatic shift in this country overnight. Mayors are best positioned to set the example, and with this Declaration, I hope we inspire others in positions of responsibility to consider making similar public commitments.” Deegan shared a comment in a Nov. 6 press release about the declaration. “At some point, we have to start seeing each other’s humanity,” Deegan said. “I know these are difficult times, but even in our passionate disagreements, we won’t find our way back with hate for each other. Let’s choose love over fear. It has never been more important than it is now.”

SPECIAL FINANCING for 18 Months!

With approved credit. Call or ask your Designer for details. Not available in all areas.

40% Off

Plus FREE Installation PLUS TAKE AN EXTRA

15% Off

Call for a free in home design consultation & estimate

904-530-3301 www.closetsbydesign.com TR

Locally Owned and Operated | Licensed and Insured

Celebrate Home, Celebrate Joy! THE MARCO CONDO

WATERFRONT

THE VENETIAN

2130 San Marco Blvd. #A-3 1 Bed | 1 Bath | 734 SF

6750 Oakwood Dr 3 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,884 SF

5375 Ortega Farms Blvd. #609 3 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,403 SF | 40' SLIP INCLUDED

$240,000

$675,000

$264,000

ORTEGA TERRACE

CLUB CONTINENTAL

4966 Arapahoe Ave. 4 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,979 SF

4805 Algonquin Ave. 4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,853 SF

2099 Winterbourne North #302 2 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,535 SF

$599,900

$1,100,000

$385,000

SOLD

ORTEGA FOREST

WATERFRONT

4341 Water Oak Ln. 3 Bed | 2 Bath | 2,243 SF

4685 Nottingham Rd. 3 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,606 SF

5035 Long Bow Rd. 5 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 3,638 SF

Visit Us Online Fresh Listings Updated Regularly

30 Years of Opening Doors in Jacksonville 2905 Corinthian Avenue | Ortega Village | 904-388-0000

MillerCompanyRealtors.com

Ted

Miller

(904) 463-1731

Virginia

Alise

(904) 545-8609

(904) 434-0767

Ogletree Ferranti

Elizabeth

Meux

(904) 704-1576

Ann

Abercrombie (904) 382-1346

Tom

Sandlin

(904) 237-0458

Laura

Ropp

(904) 304-9196

Sheila

Thompson (904) 625-7476

Carrie

Inman

(904) 707-8038

Ted

Alexander (904) 334-1892

Dottie

Lowell

(904) 535-0136

4 |

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

DECEMBER 2025

Divided DCPS Board Approves HQ Sale, Relocation By Fabrizio Gowdy In a stark reversal of its unanimous vote against relocation a month earlier, the Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) Board has voted 4-3 to sell the district’s current headquarters on the Southbank and relocate to Baymeadows. In two separate votes at its Nov. 4 meeting, the board voted to sell the administrative headquarters property at 1701 Prudential Drive and purchase a new facility at 8928 Prominence Parkway in Baymeadows. For both votes, DCPS Board Chair Charlotte Joyce, Vice Chair April Carney, and Board Members Melody Bolduc and Reginald Blount voted in favor, while Board Members Cindy Pearson, Darryl Willie, and Anthony Ricardo voted against. Under the approved contract, there is a 455-day closing period on the Prudential property with a possible six-month extension. “This move allows us to give more back to our schools without taking anything away from students,” said DCPS Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier. “By relocating only our administrative offices, we’re reducing overhead costs and generating revenue that will be reinvested directly into the capital

construct a mixed-use development featuring residential units – apartments and condos – plus 200,000 square feet of commercial and retail space. Chase Properties Owner and CEO Mike Balanky says the development on the school board property will be “synergistic” with the nearby 53-unit TrailView Townhomes – also being developed by Chase Properties – and the RiversEdge developments. He hopes to break ground in the next year and complete the project within three years. “This is the last best piece of property on the river in our city, and it’s exciting to see it all finally coming together,” said Balanky. During public comment, District 5 City Councilman Joe Carlucci expressed his support for the sale to Chase Properties, although he specified that he was not present to speak on the purchase of the new building. “This will continue to amplify the progress we’ve already made Downtown, and it coincides with plans we have for the future,” said Carlucci, who called the move a “generational opportunity for Jacksonville.” At their October meeting, board members A rendering depicts early conceptual designs of the mixed-use development Chase Properties plans to build on the site of raised concerns about Fleet Landing’s the current DCPS administrative headquarters on the Southbank.

This is the last best piece of property on the river in our city, and it’s exciting to see it all finally coming together. – Mike Balanky, Owner & CEO, Chase Properties budget to support classrooms, educators and student resources.” The buyer is Jacksonville-based Chase Properties, which will purchase the 4.87-acre Prudential Drive property for $17.2 million. That’s $2.8 million less than developer Fleet Landing’s offer, which the board rejected unanimously in October. Chase Properties plans to demolish the DCPS building and

plan for a retirement community on prime Downtown riverfront property and the deal’s structure, which deferred $7.5 million in payments for up to three years without interest. By contrast, the approved sale to Chase Properties requires full payment of $17.2 million at closing. While Pearson, who represents the Southbank, said the new deal was an

improvement, it did not yet address all of her concerns. She cited the Prominence Parkway property’s decentralized location, high cost and $42,000 annual property owners’ association fee as reasons for her opposition to the sale. “I do believe there is a better option for the Duval County School Board admin building, we just haven’t found it yet, but I do believe it is out there,” Pearson said. Board member Reginald Blount said he did not “feel 100% comfortable” with the purchase of Prominence Parkway, but ultimately voted in favor of both the sale and the purchase. In remarks to Resident News,

Join us at

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

St. Mark’s

Trees Still Available! 4149 Oxford Avenue Jacksonville, FL 32210 Monday – Friday: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

ST. MARK’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH is happy to present the

Music at St. Mark’s Concert Series

AVA I L A B L E AT

12054_DY_Underwoods_ResidentNewsSanMarco-Riverside_Dec25_NW2191.indd 1

10/16/25 6:03 PM

Messiah – UNF Chamber singers

December 8th at 6:30 p.m. – Dr. Tasher and the talented University of North Florida Chamber Singers along with the Lawson Ensemble will present Handel’s beloved Messiah.

A Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols

December 17th at 6 p.m. – A beloved candlelight service featuring nine lessons, telling the complete Christmas story: creation, prophecy, birth, and second coming, all woven together with carols and seasonal music.

Christmas Eve Services

Wednesday, December 24 at 2:00 p.m. - in the church Holy Eucharist with traditional hymns and Christian Tableau 5:00 and 10:00 p.m. in the church Holy Eucharist with choir, organ, and brass *because of the size of the congregation at these services, seats may only be held until 10 minutes before the service.

Christmas Day Service

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

Holiday Worship Schedule

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

DECEMBER 2025

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

Student Safety a Priority for Joint Meeting of Government Officials By Joe Wilhelm Jr. Finding a better way to address the safety of Duval County students was a priority issue of the joint meeting of the Jacksonville City Council and Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) Board on Nov. 6 in council chambers. Nearing the halfway point of the current school year, 10 students have been struck and two of those incidents resulted in fatalities, according to DCPS Police Chief Jackson Short. Forty-three students were struck as pedestrians on their way to or returning from school during the 2024-25 school year, with three of those resulting in fatalities. “I go back to last year when a friend of mine who works in the mental health department of Duval County Public Schools came to me and said, ‘I have a box full of letters that came from students at Ed White High School that you need to read.’ It was after a tragedy had occurred to one of their classmates,” said City Council President Kevin Carrico. “I read those letters, and it really ached my heart to hear the frustration and sadness that those kids were going through and many of them felt like we, as a community, had forgotten about them.” In October 2024, 17-year-old Ed White High School student Alaysha Williams lost her life while crossing Blanding Boulevard. Prior to that tragedy, a similar traffic incident in 2018 took the life of student Shaqia Bryant while she was crossing Normandy Boulevard. DCPS staff members attended the meeting to provide information on what the district was doing to address student safety issues, including a presentation on its “Be Safe, Be Seen” initiative that was launched last year.

The program includes three pillars: • Education: adding safety lessons to health, physical education and daily routines; • Visibility: banners, posters and campus displays to promote pedestrian and bicycle safety, and • Engagement: partnerships with PTA, JSO, JFRD, Baptist and Wolfson Medical Communities to take action for safer roadways. City of Jacksonville Chief of Traffic Engineering Chris LeDew provided a presentation on what steps his department is taking to make the city’s roads safe for students and pedestrians. Tools including rapid rectangular flashing beacons, which give higher visibility to crosswalks, hybrid walk signals (HAWK) – a triangular light signal that is activated when pedestrians press a button to cross the road – speed humps, speed tables and raised crosswalks have all been used to protect pedestrians and bicyclists. Speed humps have recently been installed at Julia Landon College Preparatory Middle School, and a raised crosswalk has been added at Fishweir Elementary School. LeDew also addressed the topic of school zones and why only elementary schools use this traffic calming tool. “It is a policy I inherited from 1992,” LeDew said. “We are doing a survey of what other large jurisdictions are doing across the state and looking to update our policy to possibly include some other devices and to look at middle schools as well.” Elementary schools are also the main focus of the crossing guard program. There are currently 290 traffic guards

Jacksonville City Council Vice President Nick Howland, Councilmember Chris Miller and Duval County Public School Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier talk after the joint meeting.

helping children cross the street, and there are 325 openings. Applications for part-time school crossing guards can be found on the JSO or Beaches City websites. LeDew passed on some information from his counterpart at the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), who was unable to attend the meeting. “The FDOT has changed the way it funds projects. Instead of having one dedicated pot of money for school safety, they put all the projects in one pot,” said LeDew, “For instance, there is an approved HAWK signal for North Main Street at Andrew Jackson High School, but it doesn’t have funding. (FDOT) recommended that the School Board and City Council place them on the list of priority projects. That will give weight to the FDOT funding decision.” Carrico pledged at the end of the meeting that there will be another joint meeting, and he will gather the right people to get some movement on the safety of area students. “I will commit, Madam Chairwoman, if you want to meet with me, [DCPS Superintendent] Dr. [Christopher] Bernier, the mayor’s chief of staff or even the mayor, and just have a high-level conversation,” said Carrico. “We will take the initiative, and this will not be the last joint meeting, we will take this and follow up and do something.”

Cindy Edelman Fellowship Empowers Duval Teachers to Elevate Their Craft The Jacksonville Public Education Fund is inviting Duval County educators to apply for the Cindy Edelman Excellence in Teaching Fellowship. Launched in 2020, the fellowship funds innovative professional learning opportunities – from international exchanges to research programs – to help educators “design and pursue professional learning experiences of

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

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

Gain a brighter outlook on life. You don’t have to live with severe depression. If you’re still struggling with depression after counseling and medication, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options. You may be eligible for one of Baptist Health’s innovative depression treatments designed for people who still have serious depression after traditional care. These FDA-approved, advanced therapies target treatment-resistant depression and are administered under expert medical supervision in a safe, supportive environment. Take the next step and gain a brighter outlook. There is hope—and help—beyond traditional treatment.

Visit

BaptistJax.com/Depression

or call Baptist Behavioral Health at 904.376.3080 to learn more.

6 |

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

Standing Watch for Veterans in Crisis

Florida nonprofit The Fire Watch is celebrating a significant milestone, announcing that it has trained more than 10,000 people across the state through its Watch Stander program. The Fire Watch’s mission is to end Veteran Suicide. Watch Stander serves as its cornerstone prevention initiative. Launched in 2020, it is an “early intervention, lifesaving network of community members trained to identify risk factors of Veterans in crisis and direct those Veterans to the resources they need.” “10,000 Watch Standers is a major milestone for us,” says Fire Watch Executive Director Nick Howland. “The Watch Stander program is modeled after CPR. Across Florida, our neighbors, co-workers, friends, and family members are completing the training, standing vigilant to the concerns of Veterans, and, when necessary, referring them to life-saving resources. Data shows that over the next 12 months, our 10,000 Watch Standers will direct more than 15,000 Florida Veterans to the services they need.” More than 6,000 Veterans take their own lives every year – a rate nearly twice as high as their civilian counterparts, covering all demographics and age groups. Training for the Watch Stander Program can be completed in 30 to 45 minutes and is available free of charge at www.thefirewatch.org/watch-standers.

DECEMBER 2025

Shipyards West Park Design Nearly Complete

USS Orleck Crew seeking changes to latest design

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

USS Orleck Naval Museum Ship Manager Jim Fossa, pictured right, and William Harrell discuss the latest design of the Shipyards West Park with Daryl Joseph, City of Jacksonville Parks, Recreation and Community Services director.

By Joe Wilhelm Jr

When was the last time you had your air ducts cleaned? Healthy at the Holidays Promotions Envirovac promo offers are only valid with full system air duct cleaning

FREE FREE FREE Germicidal UV $599 value

Duct Fogging $350 value

Dryer Vent Cleaning $175 Value Only with Full system duct cleaning.

Cannot be combined with other offers Expires 12-31-25.

Employee Spotlight: Celebrating 4 Years with Alex McKenzie: After graduating college and struggling to find work in my field, I realized my degrees didn’t guarantee stability. I had to leave my old job and fill the gap, so I turned to HVAC. Comfort cooling is always needed, and that consistency drew me in. I enjoy the hands-on work—something I’ve always preferred—even back in school. One of my favorite parts of the day is removing, taking apart, and cleaning the blower assembly; it’s like a small game I try to beat. The work makes a difference—improving airflow and air quality while extending equipment life. People don’t realize how bad ductwork can get. While a lot of the jobs are repetitive, like duct cleanings, I enjoy more involved tasks like duct installations. I usually work with a helper, which I prefer, and I don’t mind routine sites—just not dryer vents. I like learning new HVAC technologies and believe there’s always room to grow. I’m content with the job.

1000 Edison Avenue Jacksonville, FL 32204

(904) 503-7708

envirovac.org FL Lic#CACA041190

As designs for the incoming Shipyards West Park near completion, the community had an opportunity to weigh in on the latest round of updates. Several renderings of the proposed park, planned for the riverfront space on East Bay Street, were displayed at Nov. 6 open house hosted by the City of Jacksonville. It was held at the Jacksonville Public Library Main Branch. One of the prominent features of the new design is a two-story gallery and event pavilion proposed for the west side of the property near the Fire Museum and USS Orleck Naval Museum. Plans for the first floor propose a café, restrooms, gallery and ticket booth for the USS Orleck Naval Museum to replace the modular building currently in use. The second floor could be used as an events space for weddings and corporate functions. While 90% of the design has been completed, some attendees of the open house hope there is still time to make some changes. Upon reviewing the renderings and diagrams, Jim Fossa, ship manager for the USS Orleck Naval Museum, had some questions about the latest vision for the park, particularly where access to the pier and ship is concerned: The ramps that allow visitors to gain access to the pier and the USS Orleck were not listed on the latest renderings. A row of trees occupies the space where the ramps and ticket booth currently sit near the pier. “How are people going to get on and off the ship? Where are they going to park? What are we going to do during construction?” said Fossa. While changes are being made to the area during the design process, the design team is willing to work with stakeholders to make things right. “There will most likely be some changes to the site,” said Gina Ford, lead designer for the project and co-founder of Agency Landscape and Planning. “We will be talking with the Orleck about how change happens and when. The hope is that it stays there and is incorporated into the new park and we can work together.” The City is planning on breaking ground on the project next spring and will coordinate with current stakeholders as the project progresses. “There is going to be a construction manager brought on board in the spring and they will be working with us, the design team, to make sure we stay on budget and understand feasibility. Part of their charge will be phasing and working with stakeholders to plan for what happens during construction,” said Ford. The City has dedicated $54.7 million for the park in 2025/26 fiscal budget, and $5 million in the following year’s budget. Total cost for the project is estimated at $74.7 million by the City, adding $15 million that was previously set aside for the park. While the design phase may be drawing to a close for the Shipyards West Park, people are still bringing ideas to the table for the next big step for downtown. Stephen Jorgensen attended the open house to see what the park had to offer and talk to people about moving the sail structure of the USS Jacksonville, the only vessel of the U.S. Navy to be named for Jacksonville, Fla., to the First Coast. The USS Jacksonville was a nuclear-powered Los Angeles-class attack submarine. “It would be great to bring it here alongside the Orleck,” said Jorgensen. Bill Hoff, Scenic Jacksonville’s interim board president, was impressed with how responsive the process has been to public comment. “It’s improved from the initial design. It looks like they have incorporated elements from community feedback,” said Hoff. Scenic Jacksonville Executive Director Nancy Powell liked the design, but could do without the sand features, the beach between piers three and four and the grill area and sand volleyball court. “There’s too much sand. I see what they are trying to do, but it just presents too many problems: sand is hot, leaves and other debris can collect in the sand and pets use the sand,” said Powell. VISIT WWW.RESIDENTNEWS.NET FOR MORE IMAGES FROM THE OPEN HOUSE.

Holiday Joy Begins at Home… $1,150,000

$869,900

$849,000

$739,000

5 BR | 5 FULL BA | 2 HB | 5,489 SQFT

5 BR | 4 FULL BA | 3,280 SQFT

5 BR | 3 FULL BA | 1 HB | 3,384 SQFT

3 BR | 3 FULL BA | 1 HB | 2,500 SQFT

10114 FAIR HILL CT

Listed By Edmund Akers | 904-651-6676

254 DOCK HOUSE RD

3707 CATHEDRAL OAKS PLACE S

Listed By Edmund Akers | 904-651-6676

Listed By Robert B Van Cleve | 904-535-4420

1596 LANCASTER TERRACE, 3B Listed By Seth Kimball | 904-270-0210

UN R DE CO R NT T AC

$642,500

$638,000

$574,400

$551,400

5 BR | 4 FULL BA | 3,222 SQFT

3 BR | 2 FULL BA | 1,596 SQFT

4 BR | 3 FULL BA | 1 HB | 2,715 SQFT

4 BR | 3 FULL BA | 2,567 SQFT

266 SAWGRASS DR

Listed By Edmund Akers | 904-651-6676

1444 TALBOT AVE

85199 SOUTHERN CREEK BLVD

Listed By Wade Griffin | 904-534-0969

Listed By Erin E King | 904-999-1780

85118 SOUTHERN CREEK BLVD Listed By Erin E King | 904-999-1780

SO LD

$475,000

$460,000

$369,000

$350,000

2 BR | 2 FULL BA | 1,385 SQFT

3 BR | 2 FULL BA | 1 HB | 1,856 SQFT

4 BR | 3 FULL BA | 2,660 SQFT

2 BR | 2 FULL BA | 1,480 SQFT

3225 ST JOHNS AVE C

Listed By Wade Griffin | 904-534-0969

4361 MARQUETTE AVE

Listed By Seth Kimball | 904-270-0210

4251 PINEWOOD AVE

Listed By Edmund Akers | 904-651-6676

2970 ST JOHNS AVE 10B Listed By Wade Griffin | 904-534-0969

$224,400

$185,000

$179,000

$125,900

3 BR | 2 FULL BA | 1,268 SQFT

2 BR | 2 FULL BA | 1,210 SQFT

1 BR | 1 FULL BA | 803 SQFT

1 BR | 1 FULL BA | 665 SQFT

2562 SUMMIT ST

Listed By Erin E King | 904-999-1780

5634 GREATPINE LANE N Listed By Edmund Akers | 904-651-6676

3591 KERNAN BOULEVARD, 206 Listed By Edmund Akers | 904-651-6676

Ed Akers

904-651-6676

Alan Aptheker 904-982-3950

Mariel Benn 703-473-8082

Nancy Pedrick Cusimano 904-728-0981

Erica Davis 904-219-0954

Sharon Friedes 904-501-6558

Wade Griffin 904-534-0969

Glenn Guiler 904-707-7712

Tiffany Griffin 904-855-5495

Seth Kimball 904-270-0210

Erin King 904-999-1780

Marc Laurent 786-617-6818

Tripp Newsom 904-234-6117

Carl Ramsubhag 904-234-4805

Rosemarie Reynolds 904-553-0015

Zeke Tayag 904-210-3818

The Thomsen Group 904-835-2300

Robert Van Cleve 904-535-4420

©2025 It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully. Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

7701 TIMBERLIN PK BLVD #1636 Listed By Edmund Akers | 904-651-6676

Avondale Office 3610 St. Johns Avenue 904-394-2316

8 |

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

DECEMBER 2025

A Neighborhood on the Move

Scott Moore anticipates a mid-December opening for the Murray Hill location of his restaurant, Calico Cactus.

By Jennifer Jensen

Ophelia and Ryan Ferrell toast in the space that will transform into their new business, Wilderness.

Renovations are underway at The Forge.

While Murray Hill has seen its share of businesses come and go, as of late, there has been an influx of activity. Several new businesses have opened, and several more are slated to open in the coming months. “We’ve got some amazing businesses that are just staples and now more are coming in,” Murray Hill Preservation Association (MHPA) President Greg Beere said. “It’s really looking good.”

When Beere became president of the MHPA, he wanted to embrace and focus on the commercial corridor. “We also wanted to support those businesses the best we could,” Beere said. “Whether or not they’re members. They bring tax money into the neighborhood. They hire people who live in the neighborhood. They support the neighborhood, and many of them live in the neighborhood.”

from all of us at “Keeping you put together”

We are grateful for our neighborhood clients and wish everyone the best Season’s Greetings. With each passing year, we appreciate each client, every day of the year!

Advanced bookings requested and appreciated! (904) 574-8823 // hingedsalon.com @HINGEDSALON 4278 Herschel St, Jacksonville, FL 32210

Beere believes businesses are drawn to the area because of its diversity. “I think if you talk to them [businesses], they see Murray Hill as this kind of hip, cool area,” Beere said. “They see a community that’s very diverse – young and old, from professionals to artists and musicians and those with young children. You name it, we’ve got it.” The neighborhood is also affordable and highly walkable. People enjoy being able to walk to their local bar or restaurant, he added. New Businesses on the Block Soon enough, people will be able to walk to Calico Cactus, Scott Moore’s breakfastand-lunch taco restaurant. Residents will recognize Moore’s name as the founder of Maple Street Biscuit Co. According to reports, Calico Cactus assumed the lease from the Maple Street Biscuit Co. space in Murray Hill earlier this year. This will be the second location for Calico Cactus, which also operates a location in St. Augustine. Moore, his co-founder, investors and store leaders sold Maple Street Biscuit Co. in 2019 to Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc. The Murray Hill location for Calico Cactus is currently operating under a building permit, and Moore hopes to open in the second week of December. The Fridge also recently opened, taking over the former Town Beer space. The business is the latest concept by the people behind Beer:30 in San Marco. It offers draft beer and wine by the glass and bottle, as well as cans and bottles to go. Another new business in the works is Wilderness, which will open in the former Heads Up Salon space. Wilderness will be a small, plant-based restaurant and bar, focusing on healthy, Southern dishes and a curated selection of beer and wine owned by Ophelia and Ryan Ferrell. They will also have a small retail section with local teas, fermented goods and juices. The Ferrells have lived in the neighborhood for more than 15 years,

have seen the community blossom, and hope to contribute to it. “We’re hoping to create a safe place for the community where people can enjoy nourishing food, good company or grab a bite to go,” Ophelia said. “We’ve been looking for a space for the last few years, and nothing felt quite right. Once we pursued Edgewood Avenue, everything lined up and felt kismet.” Renovations are underway to add a full kitchen and bar. They hope to open in the first quarter of 2026. Edgewood Avenue will also be home to The Forge, a veteran-owned bar and restaurant that took over the Mustang Bar and Grill space, which is currently undergoing renovations. Beere is energized by all the happenings in the neighborhood. “It’s where Riverside was probably 30 years ago,” Beere said. “It’s just a cool neighborhood.” MHPA recently hosted Murray Hill-O-Ween, a beloved neighborhood tradition, thanks to community and local business support. The top sponsor was neighborhood newcomer Community First Credit Union. The company purchased the old Edgewood Bakery and will begin renovations in January. It is expected to open in late 2026. “They’re very community oriented,” Beere said. “Their building’s going to be cool. It’s going to have a meeting area for the community to use, and it’s going to have essentially a food truck that’s permanent.” Another sponsor and recent addition to Edgewood Avenue is Foxtail Coffee Co. Beere acknowledged that some people might complain about having three coffee shops in the corridor now. Still, Beere believes competition is good because it keeps businesses from becoming complacent. “The cream rises to the top,” he said. “Competition makes better product, better product makes better businesses, and better businesses makes better communities.”

4350 Garibaldi Ave

6897 Miltondale Rd

Venetian Tudor of 2124 SF 4 beds / 3 full baths

Macclenny w/1 acre & pool on a spring fed creek Built in 2000 w/all upgrades 2 garages/cooled-heated

$575,000

Call Trey Martin, Realtor 904-534-7678

JANIEBOYD.COM

Call Janie Boyd, Realtor 904-237-9513

words ARE NICe.

but numbers speak for themselves. orlando valle v. proficient auto transport, Inc., et al

$14.5 MILLION (verdict, 5/4/2022) Personal Injury: Trucking Crash

kathleen thomas* V. geico insurance company

$14.4 MILLION (verdict, 8/5/2022) Personal Injury: car accident

*Names changed to protect client privacy

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

$4.5 MILLION (settlement, 8/17/2021) Personal Injury: Workplace Negligence

*Names changed to protect client privacy

your fight is our fight COKERLAW.COM | 904.356.6071 OFFICES-JACKSONVILLE

10 |

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

You Asked for It

DECEMBER 2025

A Century in Snapshots

How will drivers be alerted to new traffic safety measures in front of Fishweir Elementary School?

1982 A snapshot from Christmas Day 1982 at 3750 Riverside Avenue with Boone Park in the background. These girls played in the park all the time. Upper Row: Cathy Towers Hardage, Amy Simpson. Lower Row: Frances Berlin, Chewpee the Boxer, Carol Covington, Buppy the Boxer, Margaret Towers, Sally Towers Ragsdale

A raised crosswalk aims to increase pedestrian safety for people crossing Herschel Street at Fishweir Elementary School.

By Fabrizio Gowdy Recently, new traffic safety features were installed in front of Fishweir Elementary School to enhance pedestrian safety, including a raised crosswalk. Resident News received a call from a reader asking if there will be any signs, reflective lights or other features installed to alert drivers of the new traffic feature as they approach the raised crosswalk since drivers may not be familiar with it yet. According to Brooks Dame, executive assistant for District 7 City Councilman Jimmy Peluso, new signage has been installed to alert drivers to the recently completed updates. The new neon yellow signs are large, bright and on either side of the sidewalk.

A traffic sign alerts drivers heading south on Herschel Street of the new speed table installed in front of Fishweir Elementary School.

“If you’re driving up, those signs are reflective and massive,” said Dame. Dame also explained that scaled lines of thermoplastic road marking paint have also been added leading up to the crosswalk, which will also help bring it to drivers’ attention. These updates are all part of a push to increase pedestrian safety following the 10 students who have been struck by vehicles since the start of this school year, including two fatalities. Forty-three students were struck by vehicles in the 2024-25 school year.

Preparations are underway for the centennial celebration of one of Jacksonville’s largest urban parks: Boone Park. The Friends of Boone Park South plan to host the celebration at the Memorial Circle off St. Johns Avenue on Jan. 24, from 1 to 4 p.m. Residents are invited to share memories and photos of their moments at the park – much like this one, shared by reader John Ragsdale of Christmas Day in 1982, with Boone Park pictured in the background. Readers are invited to submit their own photos to editor@residentnews.net.

Holiday Crhseer Headquarte

Caring for your smile and the person behind it. Visit us today to see why our patients love us— or explore our comprehensive dental services on our website!

F O O D A N D G I F T E X P E R I E N C E

Offering catering and ready-made delectables including our signature chicken salad, our ultra-popular Poppy Seed Chicken casserole, 4205 St. Johns Avenue homemade sides, a wide variety of dips, (904) 300-3025 partygirlavondale@gmail.com soups, salads, sweet treats and more!

Delivery | Takeout | In-store pickup | In-store shopping |

Our Mission: To create an atmosphere of caring professionalism and deliver quality dental care in Jacksonville, FL, with compassion, excellence, and value. We strive to treat our patients as we would our family and make our practice strong, profitable, and state-of-the-art.

Call Today! 904-389-3451 SOUTHERNSMILESJAX.COM | 2522 OAK STREET | JACKSONVILLE

We want to thank you for your business & wish you a joyful Holiday Season & a Happy New Year from your friends at the neighborhood UPS Store 1650 Margaret St | Jacksonville, FL 32204 | 904-381-6678

DECEMBER 2025

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

Circuit Judge to Rule on Class Action Status for IFF Lawsuit By Michele Leivas Years in the making, a lawsuit against International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF) may be granted class action status for the “noxious” odors the lawsuit alleges are emitted by the facility. Affected residents packed a Jacksonville courtroom on Monday, Nov. 17, as counsel presented arguments for and against the class action status for a lawsuit filed against IFF. The lawsuit, filed in January 2022, alleges IFF “emits noxious odors that interfere with residents’ ability to use and enjoy their property and negatively impact property values.” An additional hearing was held on Nov. 24. Duval County Circuit Judge Robert Dees is still cosider evidence and proposed orders before issuing his ruling. Currently, the lawsuit has three named plaintiffs. Still, representing counsel Laura Sheets said there is a much larger group of impacted residents.

They’ve confirmed that the odor that comes from IFF has the ability to travel between three and nine miles. – Laura Sheets “That includes roughly around – it’s 6,000 households approximately,” Sheets said. Following the Nov. 17 hearing, IFF shared a statement with Resident News, which read: “Monday’s hearing marked an important step in the legal process, and we appreciate the opportunity to share our position, supported by case law. We respect the judge’s role and the importance of considering all evidence to reach a fair and informed decision. IFF remains committed to being a responsible community partner, employing best-in-

Build Your Own Gift Set! 20% OFF an Ashtray, Lighter & Cutter.

Mix and match from eligible items 904-516-4712 | 3921 HENDRICKS AVE • JACKSONVILLE

Let us help you find the perfect property or home FEATURED LISTING 2525 COLLEGE STREET #2102 2 BR / 2 BA / 1,555 SF

365,000

In the beautiful John Gorrie building. Beautiful hardwood floors throughout. The kitchen is wellequipped with granite countertops & stainless steel appliances, roomy master suite w/large walk-in closet & private bath. Less than a block away from shops!

LE SA R FO

More details online at traditionsjax.com.

1560 LANCASTER TERRACE #1203 2 BR / 2 BA / 1,620 sq ft. - $579,000

2909 ST JOHNS AVENUE #12A

T EN R R FO

2 BR / 2 BA / 1,160 sq ft. - $212,000

2716 OAK STREET #3

2745 DOWNING STREET

1 BR / 1 BA / 1,185 sq ft. - $2,395/mo

2 BR / 3 BA / 1,365 sq ft. - $1,950/mo

BUY / SELL / RENT / PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 904.683.5230

TRADITIONS R E A L T Y

LLC

1046 Riverside Ave.

Jacksonville, FL 32204 @TraditionsRealtyJax.com

TraditionsJax.com

class technologies and processes to prevent odors from leaving our facility and working collaboratively with the City of Jacksonville. Importantly, data from the City’s own odor study and case experts reinforce what we have consistently stated: IFF is not the source of the increased odor complaints in Murray Hill.” The City of Jacksonville’s Urban Odor Study, conducted by Envirosuite, spanned 12 months – April 2022 to April 2023. Sheets acknowledged that other facilities emit odors but argued, “those smells don’t travel to our class area the way these do.” Sheets cited third-party evidence outside the Envirosuite study that supports the claim that odors from IFF can travel farther than those from other facilities. “It’s a third party that is basically just trying to figure this whole thing out, and they have definitively, at least brought forward evidence on their own where they’ve confirmed that the odor that comes from IFF has the ability to travel between three and nine miles, because of how malodorous it is,” Sheets said. As of print time, Judge Dees had yet to make his ruling on the motion for class action status. Resident News will continue reporting on this matter as details emerge.

l l o P t n i m r e Pepp 12 |

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

DECEMBER 2025

LOCAL VOICES SHARING WHAT MAKES THE HOLIDAYS SPARKLE

The Questions

If you could give any gift to the community, what would it be? What is your go-to local business for holiday shopping?

David and Inggrie Moore

What is your favorite spot for a seasonal snack?

Vocational training for youth to help them, whether it’s like a coffee and tea shop or bookstore or a combination of both. Typically we go to the shops in San Marco. You know me, I love Whit’s.

Sheila Burton I would give everybody the gift of health. I would do it. That’s so important. I mean, what else [do you have] if you don’t have your health?

Jennifer and Chris C.

Amy and Darren Wainright More time with your families.

The gift of health.

Oh my gosh, because I have grandchildren, HeyDay! and Krista Eberle…She’s awesome.

The Next Chapter Bookshop, we just went in there and I really love that store.

Southern Grounds and Company.

up to 55% Lower Energy Bills i

CELEBRATING 60 YEARS! Beautiful Flooring Since 1966

THE MOST ENERGY EFFICIENT HOMES

ON THE MARKET!

MOVE IN READY HOMES AVAILABLE NOW!

Professionally installed wall-to-wall carpet Large assortment of unique, in-stock area rugs Custom sized carpets and rug pads Sisal, Seagrass, Jute

HISTORIC SPRINGFIELD, MANDARIN, OR BUILD ON YOUR LOT.

COMING TO ARLINGTON 2026! SCAN HERE!

Find us on Facebook and Instagram CBC057118

CALL (904) 800-WISE • TERRAWISEHOMES.COM

carpetconceptsinc.com

4144 Herschel St. • 904-388-4110

DECEMBER 2025

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

Barbara Jones Vincent and Andrea Stubbs

Kelly Hicks and Jordan Bae Lower rent.

We like Midnight Sun.

I go to all the antique stores. I’m right by Southern Crossing, so I go there a lot. And Cool Stuff.

Biscottis.

European Street Café.

Parks, more parks.

Help with food drives for this time of year.

Tricia Andersen and Charlie Burks

We just came out with my granddaughter from Hobbie Horse, we love that, and then Avondale Boutique. Overall, we just love Biscottis. Any time of year, whatever they serve, we’re good with it.

Long-lasting joy and tidings and blessings beyond measure. Avenue Antiques and Hobbie Horse. Whit’s of Avondale and Biscottis.

The Battle of the Holilday Beverages

Amanda Turner

(Pictured with family: Ken, Autumn and Evan) Of course we like Peterbrooke. Biscottis is always great. And of course The Brick. We love the Brick.

Lanny and Steven VanVooren Shop local. Spend your money down here. I don’t shop, I make all my gifts. Bitty and Beau.

Kaitlyn and Nathan Albrecht

Hot Chocolate Lovers

with pup Renly

The joy of Christmas. St. Vincent’s de Paul. And we like Miriam’s too.

Eggnog Lovers

Starbucks and we also love Athens Café.

ARCHITECTURE ◆ ENGINEERING ◆ CONSTRUCTION ◆ CONSULTING

Designing Careers, Building Futures. 2,600 architects, engineers, constructors and administrative professionals. 24 offices across the US, Latin America and Asia. $2.5B annually in commercial and industrial markets for both private and public sector clients. Headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida since 1965. WE CREATE THINGS THAT MATTER. Florida ◆ California ◆ Colorado ◆ Georgia ◆ Minnesota ◆ Missouri North Carolina ◆ Oklahoma ◆ Texas ◆ Utah ◆ Wisconsin Mexico ◆ Colombia ◆ Malaysia ◆ Philippines ◆ Singapore

SCAN TO FIND YOUR FUTURE AT HASKELL

12 Months No Interest Financing W.A.C. on qualified purchases

SERVING JACKSONVILLE FOR OVER 50 YEARS

JACKSONVILLE’S LARGEST SELECTION OF MEDICAL LIFT CHAIRS AND ADJUSTABLE BEDS. IN STOCK AND READY TO DELIVER FROM PETITE TO EXTRA LARGE!

904-786-5919

5853 Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32205 www.waynesfinefurnitureandbedding.com Monday-Friday 10-7 • Saturday 10-6 • Sunday closed

BEST PRICE GUARANTEED!

$100 OFF Lift Chair! Limited Quanties with this coupon

14 |

DECEMBER 2025

R E S I D E N T

C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

& Constellation Furyk and Friends Earns PGA Tour Champions’ 2025 Players Award Constellation Furyk and Friends presented by Circle K is the recipient of the PGA Tour Champions’ 2025 Players Award after PGA Tour Champions players voted the tournament as their favorite event. This is the second year the tournament received this accolade, previously taking it home in 2022. It is made in recognition of a tournament “that goes above and beyond in the experience they provide to PGA Tour Champions players.” Constellation Furyk and Friends presented by Circle K was one of four award winners recognized at the annual PGA Tour Champions Tournaments Meetings, held on Tuesday, Nov. 4 and Wednesday, Nov. 5. The three fellow award recipients were Simmons Bank Championship (President’s Award), Hoag Classic (Sales Award) and Peter Jacobsen (Bruno Award).

Adam Renfroe, Tabitha Furyk and Anna Spradlin with Hailey Hink, Miller Brady and Ryder Williamson.

Decades of Dedication

Daughters of the American Revolution Fort San Nicholas Chapter honored volunteer Patricia Vail during DAR’s Women’s History Month for her tireless support of and commitment to her community. In addition to her pro bono legal work for seniors with the Jacksonville Area Legal Aid, Vail is also a docent at The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, a master gardener, and a member of the Duval County Council on Elder Affairs. Vail was a regular visitor at area nursing homes as a member of the Singing Seniors, and she was Patricia Vail a member of Uptown Civitan for 42 years. An avid art collector, Vail donated much of her collection to the University of North Florida when she recently relocated to Atlanta, Georgia. “When I arrived in Jacksonville in June 1983, Mr. Prime Osborn urged me to participate in volunteer activities as a CSX employee,” Vail said. “He was right: There were always new and interesting volunteer opportunities. I urge folks to try something new that allows them to learn new things, meet new people and be a positive contributor. Jacksonville is the perfect place to carry out each piece of advice.”

Autumn Leaves and Wedding Dreams

Alexander proposes to Brittiany in Vermont on Saturday, Oct. 25.

A New England fall road trip to see the fall foliage and explore some of the region’s small coastal towns took a surprise turn in Vermont for Brittiany Light when boyfriend Alexander Stone, from Fredericksburg, Virginia, took a knee and popped the question on Saturday, Oct. 25. Before a picturesque and quintessential New England backdrop, Light beamed and said yes. Light, originally from Callahan, Florida, is master stylist as Riverside’s HairPeace salon. The couple is planning a fall wedding in October 2026.

FRESH. INNOVATIVE. HONORED.

AIA Jacksonville’s 2025 Firm of The Year architecture, interior design, placemaking

DECEMBER 2025

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

Movers & Shakers | 15

Zuino to Succeed Mayo at Helm of Baptist Health

Members of the Nemours Children’s Health Assisted Dog & Pony Therapy (ADAPT) Program pose in front of the new horse trailer with Angelica Rodriguez, Cara Bauman and Sally Hazelip, North Florida School of Special Education.

Saddling Up for a New Equine Therapy Partnership North Florida School of Special Education (NFSSE) celebrated the launch of a new equine therapy partnership with Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville, with a ribboncutting of its new horse trailer last month. The program, known as Assisted Dog and Pony Therapy (ADAPT), will integrate miniature horses into structured clinical sessions for animal-assisted therapy. The program also opens the door for NFSSE students to engage with Nemours Children’s services. NFSSE received a specially designed miniature horse trailer as a gift from the Rotary Club of East Arlington to transport the therapy horses from the Delores Barr Weaver Therapeutic Equestrian Center to Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville.

Baptist Health’s Board of Directors has appointed Matthew A. Zuino, MSIS, FACHE, as its next president and CEO, effective Jan. 17, 2026. Zuino, the system’s chief operating officer since 2020, will succeed Michael A. Mayo, DHA, FACHE, who announced earlier this year he will retire after a four-decade career in health care leadership. Board Chair Deborah Pass Durham called Zuino a “visionary leader” with a strong record in operational excellence. With more than 30 years of experience, Zuino has Matthew A. Zuino helped position Baptist Health as a high-performing, community-focused system recognized for clinical excellence. As COO, he oversees hospital, physician practice and ambulatory operations. Net revenue has grown from $2 billion in FY 2020 to a projected $3.7 billion in FY 2026, and he is credited as a key architect of the organization’s Vision for 2030. Zuino joined Baptist Health in 2017 after 17 years with Virtua Health in New Jersey. He holds degrees from Drexel University and Widener University and is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. He also serves on the United Way of Northeast Florida Board of Directors, where he will become vice chair. Mayo said Zuino has united leaders around shared goals and understands that excellence involves both measurable outcomes and a culture focused on improving lives.

Pajcic & Pajcic Donates Historic $100K to Support Riverside Arts Market Shoppers A historic $100,000 gift from The Law Firm of Pajcic and Pajcic to the Riverside Arts Market (RAM) is providing immediate food support for local families. The donation funds a program offering RAM shoppers $40 in redeemable tokens usable with any vendor. It is the largest contribution in RAM’s history. Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, District 7 Councilmember Jimmy Peluso, Pajcic family members and representatives from Riverside Avondale Preservation and RAM gathered for the Nov. 6 check presentation, held at RAP headquarters. “This is something my dad and uncle have taught all of us, that it’s important to give back,” said Seth Pajcic. “If you have the opportunity to do it, you should give back. It’s the precedent they set for us, and we’re doing that here as well to help people in Jacksonville who have needs.” A prior $20,000 donation from Pajcic and Pajcic enabled the program to launch Nov. 1 amid the government shutdown, during which time it was open to all shoppers. RAM Director Chloe Kuhn said it had immediate impact. “We supported 57 families immediately, with less than 24 hours’ notice to the public,” Kuhn said.

Members of the Pajcic family join Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, Riverside Arts Market Director Chloe Kuhn, District 7 City Councilmember Jimmy Peluso and Riverside Avondale Preservation Development Manager Casey Roth.

The law firm then added $80,000 to continue the initiative. “We can only imagine what this $100,000 generous gift is going to be able to support this coming Saturday and the Saturdays beyond,” Kuhn continued. With the government shutdown now over, Kuhn said the program will continue, transitioning to SNAP-only shoppers in early December.

16 |

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

Casting for Kindness

Sara Burk spends her days helping people. As a nurse in the operating room at Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside, she quite literally works to change people’s lives every day. Yet, motivated by her own family’s journey with heart disease, she was inspired to find another way to help people. That was the birth of the 904 Redfish Tournament, a charitable event that incorporated Burk’s lifelong love of fishing and her drive to do good. The second annual 904 Redfish Tournament was held at Palm Valley Outdoors Bar and Grill in Ponte Vedra Beach on Oct. 2 and 4. Nearly 120 boats participated in the event, raising more than $40,000 to help a 10-year-old girl battling bone cancer. Burk struggled to find words to express how meaningful it has been to see the community show up and join her in this cause. “It makes me really happy,” Burk said. “It blew me away again this year, as it did with the first [tournament], which was so cool and honestly, kind of hard to put into words.” This year, Burk introduced a junior angler division, allowing the next generation of fishers and philanthropists to give back while having fun. “I was really excited to get the kids involved and that definitely has made it grow some too because I want it to be big on family,” Burk said. “And we can’t leave out the kids, you know. We got to let them come and fish, too. That’s where I started.”

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

DECEMBER 2025

Dyslexia Awareness Month Highlighted with ‘Unlocking Dyslexia’ Life Lab

Amanda Davis and Dannah Fritz with Maggie Morrison and Nancy Barnard

O.R. nurse Sara Burk has a passion for helping people in the hospital and on the water.

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

The Main Branch of the Jacksonville Public Library, in partnership with the Education and Reading Intervention Network (ERIN) and Hope Haven, hosted a “life lab” to learn more about dyslexia during Dyslexia Awareness Month. “Unlocking Dyslexia” was held on Saturday, Oct. 4, and offered participants a two-hour lab featuring a screening of the film “Embracing Dyslexia” and presentations by speakers, including neuropsychologist Dr. Laura Bailet. Additional speakers included Nancy Barnard of Hope Haven, Dannah Fritz of Jacksonville Tutoring Specialists, Amanda Davis of Mind Rise Learning and Maggie Morrison of Inspired Educational Services.

Charting Your Financial Course with Confidence Sophisticated Planning & Investment Strategies | Local Service Comprehensive Wealth Management | Corporate Solutions

P: 904.900.7004 | F: 904.256.982 | 1920 San Marco Blvd. | Jacksonville, FL 32207 | speedwellinc.com Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Speedwell Capital Group is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. 23-BRFJH-0001TA 10/23

Brian D. Chappell

AIF ®, CRPS™, President, Speedwell Capital Group Wealth Advisor, RJFS

Visit The

USS Orleck

The USS Orleck will be CLOSED December 24th, 25th, 31st & January 1st for the holidays.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC DURING THE FOLLOWING HOURS:

Wed-Fri 9 am-3 pm • Sat 9 am-4 pm • Sun 10 am-4 pm • Mon & Tues CLOSED FREE

Last visitors on board 30 minutes before closing.

Weather such as summer heat, storms, lightning can affect tour times.

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE GATE

Scan for more info online

Admission for Active Duty In Uniform & Kids * FREE PARKING * under 5 The USS Orleck is docked at 610 E Bay St, Jacksonville, FL 32202 at the old shipyard Pier 1. jaxnavalmuseum.org

DECEMBER 2025

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

Coffee Brews Up in Murray Hill

Movers & Shakers | 17

Riverside Post Acute Hosts Immersive Dementia Experience

Riverside team member Megan Adams (left)with Haven Hospice’s Anita Howard

Foxtail Coffee Co. is now open on Edgewood Avenue South.

The mural inside Foxtail Coffee Co. was painted by local artist Jason Tetlak.

A new coffee spot recently opened in the heart of Murray Hill. Foxtail Coffee Co. opened on October 20; this is the eighth franchise location for owners Ty Claggett and Doug Tutwiler. “We love Murray Hill,” Claggett said. “And we were trying to get something on this side of the river.” When they learned that a building was being constructed at the corner of Edgewood Avenue South and Plymouth Street, they knew it would be the perfect fit. “Murray Hill is a great coffee community,” he said. “They enjoy craft coffee and the vibe of Murray Hill, it’s just a great fit for us.” In addition to espresso, seasonal drinks, nitro cold brew, and breakfast and lunch options, Foxtail Coffee Co. also offers ice cream through its partnership with Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream. Claggett said they may look at adding beer and wine in the future, as they do at their San Marco location. “In all of our locations, we strive to be a community gathering spot,” Claggett said. “We want to be a welcoming environment.” The franchise group also adds a mural painted by a local artist at all its locations. Jason Tetlak, the same artist behind the Bill Murray mural, created the mural inside this new Murray Hill location. Foxtail Coffee is located at 1195 Edgewood Avenue South and is open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Serving Northeast Florida

Since 1983 “Where The Pros Work”

R E S I D E N T I A L

O R

C O M M E R C I A L

Professionals, caregivers and community partners had the opportunity to step into the shoes of patients and loved ones living with dementia through an immersive experience hosted by Riverside Post Acute, in partnership with Haven Hospice. Held on Thursday, Nov. 6, the workshop drew members of the Mayo Clinic Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center team and Jacksonville skilled nursing center staff among its participants. Donning gloves, eyewear and headphones, participants experienced the frustration and difficulty that dementia patients often face even when completing simple, everyday tasks. Riverside Post Acute and Hope Haven offer a monthly dementia support group, led by Hope Haven Dementia Program Coordinator Kyla Hartman. It is held on the second Tuesday of every month at 10 a.m. at Riverside Post Acute (1750 Stockton Street).

CAP Reaches Milestone The Cathedral Arts Project has reached its $21 million goal for its Reimagine Campaign. The fundraising campaign was first launched in 2019 with a mission of creating more opportunities for Northeast Florida students to access arts education. Funding provided through this campaign allows CAP to hire more teaching artists and support student performances and exhibitions. “Thanks to the extraordinary generosity inspired by the REIMAGINE Campaign, CAP has laid the foundation for something even greater. We are deepening and expanding our programs because we believe that meaningful arts education unlocks the full potential of every child – and, in turn, our community,” says Doug Walker, CAP Vice President of Philanthropy. “When we invest in the arts, we invest in the human spirit. The quality of life rises for all of us when creativity is part of our shared story. Join us as we compose the next movement in this success story.”

Christmas Eve at Riverside

All are welcome to join us for candlelight worship at 4:00, 7:00, or 11:00 pm at Riverside Presbyterian Church in Historic 5 Points (849 Park St., 32204).

4:00 pm–Family Candlelight Service* 7:00 pm–Festival Candlelight Service* with Brass, Choir, and Extended Prelude

24 HOUR SERVICE

11:00 pm–Contemplative Candlelight Service

4:00 PM 2690 Rosselle Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204

Wednesday, December 24

*Nursery available at 4:00 and 7:00 pm

Celebra te t he bi r

TerryVereenPlumbing.com

$200 OFF $100 OFF BACKFLOW WATER HEATER INSTALL CODE 200HEAT

INSTALL CODE 100BFP

*includes certification*

CALL US TODAY. TERRY VEREEN PLUMBING, INC. 904-384-5661 Clip coupons and schedule your appointment. Saving money has never been this easy!

Some restrictions apply. Offer valid only during regular business hours (8am–5pm). Does not include installation of fixtures or appliances. Coupon must be presented to receive discount. Limit One per customer per visit. Cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts. Not valid on jobs already quoted. Payments must be made at time of service to receive discount. Offer expires December 31, 2025.

STATE CERTIFIED PLUMBING CONTRACTOR CFCO 25597

7:00 PM

www.rpcjax.org

s esu J of

11:00 PM

BUSIN ESS P ROFIL E

Expanding Services, Expanding Impact

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

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

The latest, most-advanced technology available and professional audiology services set prescription – Dr. Lori Bubenheimer hearing aids apart.

Au.D., CCC-A, ENT Specialists of North Florida

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

hearing exam performed by a Doctor of Audiology, not an online self-performed screening,” Dr. Bubenheimer said. With offices already in Riverside and Southside, ENT Specialists of North Florida has expanded its ability to serve patients with a third location, now open

Our audiologists are here for you for personalized adjustments and regular follow-up care. – Dr. Lori Bubenheimer Au.D., CCC-A, ENT Specialists of North Florida “The latest, most-advanced technology available and professional audiology services set prescription hearing aids apart,” said Dr. Lori Bubenheimer, Au.D., CCC-A of ENT Specialists of North Florida. ENT Specialists of North Florida’s

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

to advanced treatment options, ENT Specialists of North Florida offers care that extends far beyond its physical spaces. The professionals at ENT Specialists of North Florida provide medical care spanning a broad spectrum of specialties, including ears and hearing; nose and sinus; throat and voice; head and neck; and pediatric otolaryngology. Additionally, ENT Specialists of North Florida has a multispecialty team able to offer comprehensive pediatric treatment for craniofacial anomalies, including ear deformities, cleft lip and palate, Pierre Robin Sequence, hemangioma and vascular malformations, skull deformities and tumors, as well as other disorders. Hearing loss affects more than 1.5 billion people around the world and can have wide-ranging impacts on one’s quality of life. At ENT Specialists of North Florida, it is approached with a uniquely global perspective that begins with a comprehensive hearing evaluation and medical assessment, which includes the removal of earwax, if necessary, along with a medical evaluation of the inner

Dr. Lori Bubenheimer

ear, middle ear, and outer ear functioning, which will help identify the type and cause of hearing loss. This will also help determine whether hearing aids are needed or if an alternative treatment plan can be considered to help restore hearing. “Our audiologists are here for you for personalized adjustments and regular follow-up care,” Dr. Bubenheimer said.

E N T S P E C I A L I S T S O F N O R T H F L O R I DA RIVERSIDE Dillon Building 3 Shircliff Way | Suite 322 Jacksonville, FL 32204

SOUTHSIDE ST. JOHNS Roger Main Building NEW LOCATION 4203 Belfort Road | Suite 340 75 Jaidev Road | Suite 200 Jacksonville, FL 32216 St Johns, FL 32259

WWW.ENTSPECIALISTSNORTHFLORIDA.COM

HAPPY HOLIDAYS Don’t Forget... HSA Benefits Expire Soon!

Use Yours on a NEW Pair of Glasses!

Serving Jacksonville Since 1958

45 W. Bay St. Suite 101 Jacksonville, FL 32202 904-353-6229

www.davaltoptical.com

HOLIDAY PARTIES ARE COMING QUICKLY…

ARE YOU PREPARED?

SWING, SALSA, TANGO, WALTZ, RUMBA, CHA CHA, & MORE!

$59

Buy One Get One

INTRODUCTORY DANCE PACKAGE

CROSS THE BRIDGE TO HEALING WITH NEIGHBORHOOD CARE YOU CAN TRUST

Healing begins with a single step, and sometimes that step is over a bridge. At Riverside Post-Acute, our specialty programs and advanced memory care unit provide the expert support you deserve. Experience the multimillion-dollar renovation that is transforming the way Jacksonville heals. Riverside Post Acute. Bridging you to better days.

3 PRIVATE LESSONS, 1 GROUP CLASS & 1 PARTY

FREE! EASING YOUR TRANSITION FROM HOSPITAL TO HOME

AvondaleDance.com | (904) 384-8324 | 1080 Edgewood Ave. S #11, Jacksonville

904.231.8000 | 1750 Stockton Street | Jacksonville, Florida | riversiderehabhc.com

DECEMBER 2025

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

Honoring a Generation Navy League marks Vietnam War anniversary

Tina Pham and David Treffinger with Gary Newman and Jason Pham

The Color Guard from the F.D. Roosevelt Sea Cadet Squadron

The Navy League Jacksonville Council’s biannual Salute to Veterans Dinner held an even greater significance last month as it marked the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War and paid tribute to those veterans who served during the war with courage and distinction. The evening took place on Thursday, Nov. 13, at Hilltop Restaurant and welcomed two special guest speakers: Gary Newman, current president of the

Vietnam Veterans of America, Florida State Council, and Tina Pham, founder and president of the Asian Chamber of Commerce of North Florida and ownerbroker of Golden Pen Realty. Proceeds from the dinner – one of the council’s key fundraising events – will support the Sea Cadet programs of the Navy League Cadet Corps and the Navy Sea Cadet Corps of the FD Roosevelt Squadron. These programs serve youth ages 10 to 13 and 13 to 17, respectively.

Holiday

Movers & Shakers | 19

Swan Tattoo Lands in Avondale

When Myra Oh opened Swan Tattoo seven years ago near San Jose Boulevard, she wanted to create a welcoming and inviting place where both men and women felt comfortable. Now, she hopes to bring that same feeling to her new location in Avondale. “I wanted to create a space that felt very inviting and safe,” Oh said, working in what can be a very male-dominated industry. Once she opened, other women tattoo artists Myra Oh opens Swan Tattoo in Avondale. reached out wanting to join her at her studio. “I understood how they felt and that they wanted something different,” Oh said. She has created an open, clean, light and bright studio that is reminiscent of her own style. She started taking clients at her new studio on Oct. 21. She has lived in Avondale for 18 years and jumped at the chance to have a business in the heart of the neighborhood. “I want to spend more time in the community,” Oh said. With a studio just one block from her house, this space allows her to do just that. There are currently seven other artists working in the studio with Oh, and each has their own unique style. They offer fine-line, realistic black-and-grey, and traditional Americana-style tattoos. “I feel like we have a good variety,” she said. Swan Tattoo is located at 3566 Saint Johns Avenue. Appointments are available every day upon request, and walk-ins are available Thursday through Saturday from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Shop Local for the Holidays!

2925 Corinthian Ave. | Jacksonville

904.300.3354

stjohnsjewelry.com

Gift Guide

Get an exclusive look @stjohnsjewelry

Keep your holiday spending local this season! Visit RiversideArtsMarket.org to peruse the RAM Holiday Gift Guide, featuring nearly 50 artists, makers and businesses from our area!

20 |

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

DECEMBER 2025

Celebrating Service and Success

Graduates of Class 70: (Back row) Joan Sierra, Randy Adams, Sheldon Williams, Aaron Anderson, Willie Tanner, Adam Jackson; (Front Row) Shane Edwards, Angelo Warnock, Fred Ohayon, Erik Gonzalez, Yimnai Zhao, Cherrie Retamozzo, Ryan Lederer and Jorge Iturralde (Not shown: graduates Avagayle Williams and Alejandra Avila Salas)

Little more than a week ahead of Veterans Day, Operation New Uniform held its own celebration for veterans, specifically for those in its 70th graduating class of its Career Readiness Program. Held at The Conference Center at GuideWell on Friday, Oct. 31, the event welcomed military officials, local leaders and family members to the ceremony honoring the 16 graduates, all of whom are either recently separated from the military or activeduty servicemembers approaching retirement. Alumni of the program also attended, celebrating and supporting their brothers and sisters as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives. Guest speaker Lieutenant Colonel Allen West congratulated the graduates and shared advice on how to approach their second career. “Now is your time to step up and go back into this community, go back into this society, go back into this incredible economic machine that we have built in the United States of America, and continue your mission to serve, to support, to protect, to preserve that which keeps this country going, to continue to give back,” West said. ONU’s Career Readiness Program is a nationally recognized initiative that equips veterans with the tools to launch successful, purposeful civilian careers after retirement.

Holiday Hijinks Shine in Rom-Com “Dial It Back” Jacksonville resident Erin Keefer has blended family drama and criminal hijinks in “Dial It Back,” a new holiday rom com now available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Keefer is the film’s executive producer and co-writer, joining forces with MJ Palo of River Rose Productions, who also directed the film, to rewrite a screenplay she first created in 2022 after “Dial It Back” won the Mad Wife Productions Fellowship Contest a year later. It follows the story of newlyweds Bonnie and Dan, who are thrown for a loop when they learn their college-age kids, who did not know their respective parents had remarried, return home for the holidays as a couple. Running for HOA president, Bonnie is determined to keep this scandalous family development from derailing her campaign – but all of that takes a backseat when the family is forced to sort out their differences when criminals take them hostage following an airport mix-up. “This story originated while I was a single mom, and I thought that if I decided to remarry, I’d want the stepsiblings to like each other,” said Keefer in a press release. “But then I thought, but what if they like each other? What would that look like? And a comedy was born.” The cast includes Jasmeet Baduwalia, Dan Morrison, Shannon Holdridge, Ashlyn Baas, Ragen LoCricchio and Dawn Donohue with Andrew Arguello of Mad Wife Productions joining the production team as cinematographer and editor, with Matthew McLauchlin as executive producer.

“Dial It Back” is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video.

Happy Medium Books Café Historic Riverside Est. 2023

Not just your average bookstore...

Shop Small

this holiday season at

Happy Medium Books Cafe!

2724 Park Street

1st Sunday of Every Month Trunk Sale 9 a.m-2 p.m. 12/21 Last-Minute Gift Market 9 a.m-2 p.m. January Anniversary Sale & Market 1/11/26 9 a.m.- 2 p.m.

Antiques, Vintage, Home Décor & More

4302 Plymouth St. | JAX 32205 (the corner of Roosevelt & Plymouth Sts, across from Kent Campus entrance)

d.strangefinds@gmail.com @DelightfullyStrangeFinds

Historic Riverside, JAX 32205

904.683.8447

www.happymediumbookscafe.com

H NC pm U BR m - 3 ly 11a Dai

A Taste of the Middle East in Avondale Enjoy our new daily brunch (11 AM – 3 PM) in a welcoming, hookah-free dining room. Fresh, flavorful dishes and warm hospitality await you at Casbah Café.

5 OFF Purchase of

$15 or more

Only valid during brunch hours With coupon only. Exp 12/31/25.

Reservations: 904-981-9966 / thecasbahcafe.com 3628 SAINT JOHNS AVENUE • AVONDALE • FRESH. FLAVORFUL. UNMISSABLE.

BUSIN ESS P ROFIL E

Year-End Investment Planning Your checklist to start 2026 strong As 2025 winds down, it’s the perfect time to review your finances and take advantage of oncea-year opportunities. Whether you’re planning for retirement, managing charitable giving, or preparing for tax changes, this checklist will help you enter 2026 on solid financial footing. We’ve also included key updates from the 2025 One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), signed into law on July 4, which reshapes several tax and savings rules. 1. Maximize Retirement Contributions Retirement contributions are key to yearend planning. You can contribute to Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA) until April 15, 2026, but building the habit of contributing annually before year-end helps maintain discipline. For qualified retirement plans like a 401(k), TSP, 403(b), and 457(b), consider contributing enough to receive your full employer match and aim to get as close to the annual limit as possible. A key update from the SECURE 2.0 Act affects catch-up contributions: Starting in 2026, if you’re age 50 or older and earned more than $145,000 in 2025, you’ll be required to make catch-up contributions on a Roth basis. This may reduce tax efficiency for high earners, so it’s wise to maximize traditional catch-up contributions while still available in 2025.

2. Review Expenses and Rebalance Investment Portfolios Assess your 2025 spending and forecast 2026 expenses. Determine how much will be covered by income versus savings. If you’ll draw from your investment portfolio, consider rebalancing toward conservative holdings like bonds or balanced funds for short- to mid-term needs. With the market near highs, it’s important to consider reducing exposure to volatile assets for funds you’ll need soon. 3. Optimize Charitable Giving Charitable giving strategies are evolving, especially with upcoming changes in 2026. Changes for large donors include new limitations on itemized deductions, so if you regularly donate, consider front-loading gifts this year or using a Donor-Advised Fund. You might also consider donating appreciated assets like stocks or real estate to potentially reduce capital gains taxes while supporting causes you care about. A new abovethe-line deduction in 2026 will allow up to $1,000 for single filers and $2,000 for married couples’ donations to qualified public charities—on top of the standard deduction – provided the gifts are documented and made in cash. Finally, if you’re over 70.5 years old, consider giving from your IRA. Qualified Charitable

Distributions (QCDs) from a traditional IRA can count toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD), reduce taxable income, and be excluded from Adjusted Gross Income (AGI), making them a triple-tax-efficient way to give. 4. Take Required Minimum Distributions If you’re 73 or older and own a traditional IRA, confirm you’ve taken your RMD for 2025. If you don’t need the funds now, ask your provider about transferring assets in-kind to a taxable account to avoid selling investments prematurely.

Walsh Investment Group Team

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

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

6. Make Tax-Wise Gifts and consider gifting through 529 plans Remember the annual gift exclusion. In 2025, you can gift up to $19,000 per person ($38,000 per couple) without triggering gift tax reporting. Consider using 529 plans to gift, especially to children. These accounts offer tax-free growth potential and tax-free withdrawals for qualified education expenses. They’re ideal for gifting to

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

Wishing You a Happy Holiday Season

The end of the year is more than a time for celebration—it’s a chance to take control of your financial future. With major changes from OBBBA taking effect in 2026, proactive planning now can help you preserve tax advantages, support your loved ones, and enter the new year with confidence. If you’d like personalized guidance or help implementing any of these strategies, please reach out to the team at Walsh Investment Consulting Group. PAID ADVERTISEMENT Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC (WFAFN), Member SIPC.Walsh Investment Consulting Group is a separate entity from WFAFN. Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network does not provide legal or tax advice. Donations are irrevocable charitable gifts.The sponsoring organizations maintaining the fund have ultimate control over how the assets in the fund accounts are invested and distributed. Donor Advised Funds donors do not receive investment returns. The amount ultimately available to the Donor to make grant recommendation may be more or less than the Donor contributions to the Donor Advised Fund.While Annual giving is encouraged, the Donor Advised Fund should be viewed as a long-term philanthropic program.Tax benefits depend upon your individual circumstances.You should consult your Tax Advisor.While the operations of the Donor Advised fund and Pooled Income Funds are regulated by the Internal Revenue Service, they are not guaranteed or insured by the United States or any of its agencies or instrumentalities. Contributions are not insured by the FDIC and are not deposits or other obligations of, or guaranteed by, any depository institution. Donor Advised funds are not registered under federal securities laws, pursuant to exemptions for charitable organizations. Please consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses carefully before investing in a 529 savings plan.The official statement, which contains this and other information, can be obtained by calling your financial advisor/ Read it carefully before you invest.The availability of such tax or other benefits may be conditioned on meeting certain requirements.

JACKSONVILLE’S PREMIER DEALER OF COINS, CURRENCIES AND COLLECTIBLES

GET SOME HOLIDAY GREEN!

Bring in your presents from holidays past and we’ll give you some holiday CASH!

WWW. A-COIN.COM | 904.733.1204 6217 St. Augustine Rd., Jacksonville, FL | Hours: Mon. - Fri. 10:30am - 5:30pm Bank and House Calls Available for Large Estates... “All Transactions Confidential” WE ARE NOT AFFILIATED WITH ROLEX CORPORATION OR ANY OF ITS SUBSIDIARIES NOR ENDORSED BY ROLEX IN ANY WAY. ALL TRADEMARKED NAMES, BRANDS, AND MODELS, MENTIONED IN THIS AD ARE USED FOR IDENTIFICATION PURPOSES ONLY AND ARE THE SOLE PROPERTY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE TRADEMARKED OWNERS. A-COIN IS KNOWN WORLDWIDE, AND OUR INTERNATIONAL CONTACTS ASSURE YOU OF SELLING TO THE COMPANY WITH THE WIDEST CLIENTELE OF ANY OTHER. WE GUARANTEE THE HIGHEST CASH PRICES. PLEASE NOTE... THERE IS NO OBLIGATION TO SELL.. NO CHARGE FOR OUR EXPERTS TO EVALUATE YOUR TREASURES. MINIMUM PURCHASES APPLY. A-COIN IS NOT AFFILIATED WITH ROLEX USA. ALL TRADEMARKED NAMES, BRANDS, AND MODELS, MENTIONED IN THIS AD ARE USED FOR IDENTIFICATION PURPOSES ONLY AND ARE THE SOLE PROPERTY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE TRADEMARKED OWNERS.

DECEMBER 2025

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

A Blooming Success

It was a sold-out affair for the Late Bloomers Garden Club’s inaugural In Full Bloom Speaker and Boutique Series. Held on Tuesday, Nov. 11, at Timuquana Country Club, the event welcomed “The Dahlia Whisperer” Drew English as the first speaker for this new series. English is the head gardener of the Halsted Dahlia Garden at High Hampton Resort in Cashiers, North Carolina, and owner of a garden and landscape design firm, The English Gardener. Following English’s lecture, guests enjoyed boutique shopping with more than 16 vendors and a box lunch to be enjoyed with friends against a backdrop of the country club’s picturesque, riverfront views of the Downtown Jacksonville skyline. Darden Grant and Avery Williams were the event co-chairs, with Karla Newton and Katherine Forrester serving as show co-chairs. Proceeds from the event will go towards Late Bloomers Garden Club initiatives.

Tammie Wolff and Gretchen Lynch

Christin Jones and Macy Rising with Debbie Thompson and Jadon Faust

Charla Cerveny and Jenny Miller with Stephanie Taylor and Taylor Horne

Jill Walker and Katherine Forrester with Kristen Seay

Eileen Smith and Deborah Gervin

$3,500,000

6750 EPPING FOREST WAY N, 112

As near to perfection as you can get!! Completely renovated one of a kind custom floorplan using only the finest materials and craftsmanship! Three bedroom, four full bath end unit condominium in the Knightsbridge Riverfront Villas in Epping Forest. Living space of 4,557 square feet with four parking spaces and two storage rooms in the lower level garage. Beautiful 100% White Oak Select wide plank natural wood floors in most rooms, new Marvin windows & doors, magnificent details in moldings, trim and doors with breathtaking views of the St Johns River, gardens and Marina of the Epping Forest Yacht and Country Club! His and hers baths, oversized custom closets in the owners suite. Generous storage will accommodate downsizing without leaving your treasures behind! New owners may apply for membership in the Yacht Club to enjoy fine dining, boating, swimming, tennis and fitness center. 24 hour security at manned entrance to the Community. The spectacular sunsets are an added bonus!! RACT ONT C R E UND

$1,250,000

6787 LINFORD LANE

Exceptional opportunity to own one of the original Model Homes in Epping Forest. Built of concrete block, this Forest Home has it all! Three bedrooms, three full baths, large living and dining rooms, remodeled kitchen with breakfast/family room adjoining. The gardens are magnificent with boxwood paths and traditional, easy upkeep design. If the Buyer chooses to join the Yacht Club, it is an easy walk to tennis courts, swimming pools and the DuPont Mansion for fine dining and entertaining. This is the home and lifestyle you have been waiting for!!

Linda McMorrow, Realtor® | 904-626-9900 thelegendsfounder@gmail.com Selby Kaiser, Realtor® | 904-626-8800 selbykaiser@bellsouth.net

Dee Loop and Michelle Preuss

24 |

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

DECEMBER 2025

A Night of Wild Support for Roars and More Anthony, Lula, Thomas and Sara Godbolt

Deon Shuman and Destiny Jenkins with Ava Moore and Raelynn Shuman

Roars and More: A Gala of a Different Sort attracted 1,600 guests to the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens on Sunday, Nov. 16 for family-friendly entertainment, toy giveaways, food, music and interactive fun. Proceeds from the evening will support Community PēdsCare, which provides compassionate, specialized care for children and families facing life-limiting and complex medical conditions through the Foundation of Community Hospice and Palliative Care. “This program is largely unfunded, and there are very few within the country that exist, because it requires funding from donors and the community,” said Executive Director Annie Tuttle. “We are so blessed here in Jacksonville to have people who are so willing to give and support such an important program.” The evening was presented by The Players Championship and held in partnership with the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens.

Cassidy Williams, Joe Williams, Tracy Williams, Lindsay Robbins, Kevin Robbins, Paige Robbins, David Williams, Isla Williams

Casey Voorhees with her parents, Hugh and Regina Mathews, and her children Lilly, Knox, Everett and Emmy

(back row): Julie Nguyen, Bonnie Percevault, Joseph Percevault, (front row): Sonia Ruppenthal, Mallory Percevault

Volunteers Susie Coughlin, Brian Coughlin, Christine Pangborn, Lisa Varon and Judge James Nealis represented the Jacksonville Bar Association.

Please join us for PRINTING • DESIGN SERVICES INVITATIONS INV ITATIONS • STATIONERY BUSINESS CARDS • PROGRAMS MENUS • FLYERS • POSTERS

Christmas Eve at

Southside

DTJax.com/sipandstroll

Third Thursdays | 5 - 8 P.M. S O U T H B A N K R I V E RWA L K

# DTJ A X

and so much more!

904-398-9546

1414 hendricks avenue jacksonville, florida 32207

NOW SERV ING

HAPPY HOUR Tuesday–Saturday 4–6 pm

Dec. 24th at 3:00 pm & 5:30 pm Southside Methodist Church www.smcjax.org

OCEANA.RESTAURANT ocn2314-resident-happy-hour-ad-v1.indd 1

904.398.3005x2 10/27/23 12:13 AM

S O C I A L

RES IDENT COMMUNITY N

VISIT PHOTOS.RESIDENTN

A Pearl of a for St. Johns R

St. Johns Riverkeeper hosted its 24th annual Oyster Roast ag of Jacksonville on Friday, Nov. 21. Funds raised at this event support the critical advocacy, outre Riverkeeper – the only nonprofit entirely devoted to protecting a Held the same year as the organization celebrates its 25th ann by Firewater Tent Revival while guests enjoyed food by Biscotti Dan and Kiah Amato with Brian and Sarah Small, Cori Shad and Karis Lockhart

Winter Design Show Co-Chairs Kate Sager, Sarah Foster and Mollie Peterson Kate Theobald and Reilly Holleran

Elly and Bob Warren with Trisha Meili and Jim Schwarz Bradford and Drew Scott with Amelia Cole

Young, Stylish and Charitable The 2025 season for the First Coast Design Show kicked off at DASH Home Living last month with its annual Young Collectors Party. The party, held on Thursday, Nov. 13, welcomed the next generation of emerging style sophisticates ages 21 to 40, delivering an evening of mixing and mingling as guests immersed themselves in a world of antiques, art, gardens and interior designs. Drinks and small bites were provided and the evening offered a silent auction as well, all in support of Wolfson Children’s Hospital through The Women’s Board.

Ali Chahlavi, MD

Aristotelis Filippidis, MD, PhD

Stephen R. Parker, MD

Eric M. Gabriel, MD

Stephen S. Scibelli, MD

Orgest Lajthia, MD

Endrit Ziu, MD

Comprehensive care for brain and spine health Leading experts in neurosurgery, right here in Jacksonville When you need care for brain and spine health, the surgeons at Ascension St. Vincent’s are educated and trained at some of the most well-respected neurosurgical programs in the nation. You can expect the latest in diagnosis and treatment, including: • • • •

Minimally invasive and complex spine surgery Comprehensive brain surgery Stereotactic radiosurgery Surgery for treatment of chronic pain

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

Scan the QR code to find a neurosurgeon

Ascension St. Vincent's Riverside 1 Shircliff Way Jacksonville, FL 32204

Megan with M

Latrina Dowdell with Dana Maule

R E G I S T E R

making more good possible

through the power of strategic giving.

NEWS | DECEMBER 2025

jaxcf.org/more

NEWS.NET FOR MORE PHOTOS

an Evening Riverkeeper

gainst the scenic, riverfront backdrop of the Garden Club

each and education programs provided by St. Johns and restoring the St. Johns River and its watershed. niversary, the 2025 Oyster Roast provided live music is, a silent auction and, of course, plenty of oysters. Suzie and Ben Becker

Logan Flack and Abby O’Neill with Joe Titra and Soraya Aidinejad

n Mickler Martha Ira

Beth Stansel and Felicia Boyd with Kathy Stark

Arlen Weintraub and Erin Rogozinski Weintraub with Lynn and Sandy Zimmerman

Dave Arnold with Bruce Werner and Mauri Mizrahi

Josh Jacobs and Ken Jacobs with Ben and George Setzer

An Evening in Wonderland for River Garden The 33rd annual River Garden Foundation Gala transported guests to a magical land with its 2025 theme, “Welcome to Wonderland.” This gala serves as River Garden Hebrew Home’s signature event to raise funds to support the exceptional care the home provides to its senior residents, regardless of their financial resources. Since its inception in 1993, the River Garden Foundation Gala has raised more than $5.9 benefiting River Garden residents. The 2025 co-chairs are Erin Rogozinski Weintraub and Sandy Zimmerman.

Santa

EVEN CHECKS HIS SMILE TWICE Expert Cosmetic Care. Personalized Attention. Lasting Results. Schedule Your Cosmetic Consultation Today!

(904) 337 - 4784 | 2301 PARK ST | JACKSONVILLE | WESTDENTISTRY.COM

DECEMBER 2025

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

Champions of Care Photos: Dan Harris PhotoArt, LLC

Totally Transformative

Dr. Mario Pulido accepts the inaugural Wave Maker Award for Ascension St. Vincent’s

Brian Snow with Kathy Orr and Andy Barber

Dr Kimberly Barbel Johnson and Andria Bannister in the Mayo Clinic Car 2025

Noelle and MJ Easterling

Chanice and Blake Obi

Sidney Dent with Emily Hall

Susan King with Cindy Funkhouser

Jason and Kelly Szarek

Sulzbacher took guests back to the ‘90s at its signature fundraising event, Transformations, this year in honor of its 30th anniversary. Guests were encouraged to don their best and favorite ‘90s attire for the evening, which took place at The Glass Factory on Thursday, Oct. 30, with popular ‘90s local cover band Julia Gulia providing the era-appropriate tunes that kept guests out on the dance floor and singing along. This annual event raises critical funds and awareness for Sulzbacher’s mission to provide “affordable access to housing, health care, and opportunities for economic growth” to the community.

We Care Jacksonville, Inc. (WeCareJax) returned to the River City Railway for its 2025 Caring Awards on Thursday, Nov. 6. These annual awards recognize and celebrate individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to healthcare while also raising critical funds to support intensive medical and social case management. The evening recognized the inaugural Wave Maker Award recipient: Ascension St. Vincent’s, which was the first hospital to open its doors to WeCareJax and has remained a partner for more than 30 years. Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside Chief Medical Officer Dr. Mario Pulido accepted the award for the organization. The 2025 Caring Award Honorees were: • Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr. Charles Greene (Jacksonville ENT Surgery, Greene Emerald Med Spa) • Dr. George Trotter Founder’s Award for Physician Service: Dr. Tom Broner (Podiatrist, Baptist Beaches) • Sister de Sales Award for Outstanding Practice Administrator: Vivienne Bennett (Ackerman Cancer Center) • Freddie Webster RN Award for Nursing Excellence: Ruby Soriano, RN, MSN, OCN (Mayo Clinic) • Patient’s Choice Award: Dr. Juan Carlos Muñoz (Borland Groover) • Special Merit Community Partner Award: Travis Williams (LIFT Jax)

Trevor Lynch with Kilty Barker

Katherine and Bradford Henry with Angela Strain

Everyone has a story. Let’s help write theirs. Donate today to make their next chapter brighter. Please give in December while a portion of online gifts are generously matched by the Jessie Ball duPont Fund.

The Shoppes of Ponte Vedra (904) 280-1202 Avondale 3617 St. Johns Ave. (904) 388-5406 San Marco 2044 San Marco Blvd. (904) 398-9741 Jacksonville, Florida 32207 www.underwoodjewelers.com

danielkids.org • 904.296.1055 15582_Seiko_Underwoods_ResidentAvondale_Ad_SPB519.indd 1

11/6/25 8:36 AM

30 |

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

ART-fully Jolly Holidays

Reggie Przybysz, Kat McCall and Linda Muse with Don Penny and Greg Pryzbysz

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

Don’t miss the magic. MOVE INTO THE WINDSOR BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! There’s no better time to make The Windsor at Ortega your home. Now is your chance to enjoy a season filled with friendship, festive events, and the joy of a vibrant, independent lifestyle. CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR TOUR: 904-353-9500 5939 Roosevelt Blvd

Jacksonville, FL 32244 5939 Roosevelt Blvd Assisted Living Facility # 12509 Jacksonville, FL 32244

A Residence of Facility Legend # Senior Living® Assisted Living 12509

ALegendSeniorLiving.com Residence of Legend Senior Living®

LegendSeniorLiving.com A S S I S T E D L I V I N G | M E M O RY C A R E

L E G E N D S E N I O R L I V I N G .CO M

DECEMBER 2025

Adeze Wilford, Mico Fuentes and Erin Kendrick with Ylva Rouse, Russell Satterthwaite, Shaun Thurston, Ana Ion and Caitlin Doherty at MOCA Jacksonville

Dorothy Marsh, Barbara Pence and Elizabeth Jolley

By Peggy Harrell Jennings

the dedicated artists who led the way into the season at Art in the Park, assisting kids and adults to paint pumpkins – 420 of them, to be exact. “We were scheduled for 3 p.m. to 6 pm, but around 2:30 we were rushed by a mob of kids, and 420 pumpkins were painted and gone by 4:30,” Davis said. Several of the artists, including Marsha Hatcher, who perched on top of a 10-foot ladder, worked to paint an eight-foot pumpkin for a photo op. Join the artists at Riverside Park Dec. 6 for another Art in the Park event. The wrap-up of the “Jax Contemporary: MOCA Jacksonville Arts Triennial” exhibition was a joyful event for the 64 artists selected from 500 applicants for the exhibition curated by Guest Curator Adeze Wilford and MOCA Senior Curator Ylva Shaun Thurston and Dustin Harewood Rouse. The Project Atrium mural in the foyer of MOCA Jacksonville was a big draw as folks could watch the work in progress and listen to artists Dustin Harewood and Shaun Thurston discuss their amazing process. At the Jacksonville Watercolor Society event, friends celebrated Barbara Hall as she received its Artist of the Year Award. Randy Pitts received the Best in Show Award at North Point Dental’s “Road Trip,” exhibit, which was a collaboration between The Art Center (TAC) and Jacksonville Artists Guild. Mary Atwood and Doug Johnson each received Juror’s Choice awards. Artist Guild members and guests joined in the holiday spirit during their first season meeting by creating Christmas ornaments under the direction of artists Kat McCall and Don Penny. No settling down for a long winter nap for this active group. Artists and craftsmen presented their wares at Riverside Presbyterian Church’s Art and Gift Market. It was a wonderland of handcrafted items from clay angels, quilts, paintings – countless gifts for stocking stuffers from local creatives. Multimedia artist Suzanne Pickett’s exhibit and presentation at Women Writing for A Change was inspiring and focused on the talented woman’s dedication to bringing help and hope to Jacksonville’s Eastside through her dedication to the arts. “Through Our Eyes: Blue” – Ritz Theatre and Museum David Ponsler exhibit – featured works by many wellrespected local artists including Lawrence Walden, Dawn Montgomery, Annelies Dykgraaf, Marsha Hatcher, Diane Sawyer and others. Robert Dewitt Adams’ exhibit, “Microplastic Fantastic,” at FSCJ Kent Campus challenged viewers with his ability to transform discarded items into beauty. Adams’ humor and appreciation of the absurd shine and his “disparate images and objects become a metaphor for the layering of self.” The turnout for Svrvh Fruvcess’ blend of Japanese traditional painting with American influences at her opening at Touché Gallery Svrvh Fruvcess and Kevin Calloway

DECEMBER

2025

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

| 31

Suzanne Pickett

December 3

Robert Dewitt Adam

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

December 3

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

December 6

Meet and Greet Authors and Artists: Doug Johnson, Peggy Harrell Jennings, Jim Draper, Dorothy Fletcher Happy Medium Books Café | 2 to 4 p.m.

Randy Pitts

December 7

Reception for Lisa Lofton Happy Medium Books Café | 2 to 4 p.m.

December 7

Dave and Jan Dykgraaf

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

Private dining room COMING SOON!

Civic Orchestra of Jacksonville presents “Firebird and Other Tales” The Potter’s House International Ministries 4 to 5 p.m.

December 11–13

34th Annual Community Nutcracker Florida Theatre | Times vary

December 13-27

Annual Gingerbread Extravaganza Haskell Building of the Jacksonville History Center Dec. 13: Kids Day | Dec. 18: Gingerbread by Candlelight | Times vary

December 17

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

C AT E R I N G & E V E N T S

3584 St. Johns Avenue | catering@biscottis.net "We live here. We play here. We work here."

FIRST WEDNESDAYS | 5-9 P.M. DOWNTOWN JACKSONVILLE

STATE CERT. #CFC056489

WELCOME TO A SELF-GUIDED

TOUR OF DOWNTOWN DTJax.com/artwalk

rain or shine

• Comprehensive Install & Repair: Faucets, Tubs, Showers, Toilets, and Sinks • Advanced Leak Solutions: Slab Leaks and Water Heater Repairs

• Full-Service Plumbing: Home Repiping and Sewer/Drain Repair • Expert Home Remodeling Projects

Curious what your home is worth? Scan here for a quick home valuation!

Residential & Commercial | 24 Hour Emergency Service (904) 389-9299 | TouchtonPlumbing.com Northeast Florida Plumbing Experts for Over 25 years

3651 Park Street, Jacksonville, FL 32205 904-330-4733 | www.cowfordrealty.com

32 |

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

DECEMBER 2025

Traditions Continue at Commodore’s League Change of Command

Carol and Tom Schacht

Jim and Kathy Suber with Carol Schacht, Suzanne Kirby, Cyndi and Arthur Dobosiewicz and John Kirby

The Jacksonville Commodore’s League stepped into its next 50 years, as John Kirby passed the helm to Tom Schacht, as one Commodore steps into the shoes of the next. With the club’s by-laws in mind, the leadership and spouses gathered for a Change of Command dinner outing at the Florida Yacht Club, Nov. 12, nominating and approving newly appointed Flag Officers. The club, known for its ambassadorial program, showcases the City by way of the St. Johns River and its tributaries, bringing dignitaries and other business leaders through its main artery. As advocates for Jacksonville’s marine history, and the potential a yachting lifestyle offers its citizens, the Commodore’s League seeks to bring attention to the greatest asset of the River City – the mighty St. Johns River – and its attractive, meandering banks and bulkheads.

Carol Schacht with Will and Crandy Wheeler

Carter and Cheryl Bryan

John Kirby, Immediate Past Commodore, shows off his latest collectible, a gift from his fellow Club members.

The newly installed slate of officers included Tom Schacht, commodore; Mark Ziegler, vice commodore; Robert Gibbs, secretary; Arnold Rogers, treasurer; Will Wheeler, membership; Robert O’Quinn, operations; Mike Barker, programs; Seth Williams, publicity and public relations; Susan Derr-Grich, events; Art Dobosiewicz, outings; and Jim Suber, waterways. The event closed with comments from the newly installed Commodore Schacht. “Again, I want to thank you for all of your confidence…electing me,” he shared. “There’s a lot of great past commodores that I’m going to follow. I’m going to try and do my best to be as good as every one of you were in the year that you’ve served. Thank you very much for your guidance. Let’s enjoy the rest of the evening, I look forward to seeing you all at our first event in January.”

Jan and Josh Horenstein

Suzanne Kirby and Cyndi Dobosiewicz

AVA I L A B L E T H R O U G H

Purveyor of fine hardware, plumbing and lighting fixtures for over 80 years

904.389.6659 www.RayWare.com Monday–Friday 8 am–5 pm 4048 Herschel Street Jacksonville, FL 32205

The Jacksonville History Center with support from the

Presents the 23rd Annual

JACKSONVILLE’S DIAMOND SOURCE FOR FOUR GENERATIONS

GINGERBREAD EXTRAVAGANZA New Location!

Open Dec. 13-27 Kids Day Special Event Days

Riverplace Tower, 1301 Riverplace Blvd. #2552 (904) 346-0642 | harbyjewelers.com

Closed Dec. 14, 23-25

Saturday, Dec. 13th from 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

Santa photo op, scavenger hunt, face-painting, and more!

Gingerbread by Candlelight

Thursday, Dec. 18th from 5:30–7:30 p.m.

Festive post-work gathering w/beverage tickets included. Free admission for military and first responder families with ID—thanks to Vystar!

The Jacksonville History Center 318 Palmetto Street

FOR TICKETS + EVENT DETAILS

DECEMBER 2025

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

Ruth Upson Set to Become STREAM Magnet School in 2026–27 By Jennifer Jensen Ruth N. Upson Elementary School will become a STREAM (science, technology, reading, engineering, arts and mathematics) magnet school in the 2026-27 school year. It will be the only school in Duval County to offer a STREAM program. The idea first came from the Ruth N. Upson School Advisory Council, which wanted to explore a magnet theme for the school. According to SAC Chair Marc Julia, SAC members spent months discussing enrollment trends, community feedback and strengths already present at the school. At that time, the school was losing neighborhood students to other programs despite it’s A rating, with some families leaving because they wanted priority for middle school magnet programs. “Because we have already been implementing a STREAM-instructional approach school-wide with WOW Wednesdays, First Fridays, a dedicated STREAM lab, cross-curricular projects, and literacy-integrated STEM experiences, the SAC felt that pursuing a STREAM magnet was the natural next step,” Julia said. “In many ways, we were already operating like a magnet school; the designation would simply formalize and enhance what is already working while also responding to feedback from the community.” Principal Michelle Quarles said she is grateful to the council, which is made up of parents, students and educators, for initiating this programmatic change that she believes will “enhance the educational experience” for students. “Our students will have new ways to explore their interests, build skills and discover their strengths,” Quarles said. “It’s going to be a wonderful year of creativity, innovation and growth for every child.” The school will remain a neighborhood school and

those students who live in the area zoned for Ruth Upson will still be able to attend, while students outside the school zone will need to apply through the magnet process. Students already enrolled at Ruth Upson who wish to continue in a middle school magnet program will need to apply for the magnet option, said Laureen Ricks, director of strategic communications for Duval County Public

of students into a school or program. Placement is based on seat availability, as well as possible academic or other special criteria. If the child does not get into their school of choice, they will be placed on a wait list. More information is available at www.duvalschools.org/page/magnetspecialtransfer-option-sto-application-process. What is a Magnet School? Magnet schools go beyond traditional curricula and focus on themes such as visual and performing arts, STEAM, STREAM and career fields, among others. There are more than 50 schools in Duval County, offering more than 30 magnet programs for students, ranging from Montessori to culinary arts, accelerated learning, computer science and even medical professions. Students are also allowed to continue that magnet theme from elementary school into middle school and high school. “STREAM education will be integrated throughout the core curriculum to strengthen critical thinking and creativity for all students,” Ricks said of the incoming magnet curriculum for Ruth Upson. “In addition, students will experience hands-on innovation through a biweekly

Our students will have new ways to explore their interests, build skills and discover their strengths. It’s going to be a wonderful year of creativity, innovation and growth for every child. – Michelle Quarles Principal

Schools. The middle schools included in the continuity program are Springfield Middle School and Young Men’s and Women’s Leadership Academy at Eugene J. Butler. Every student enrolled at Ruth Upson will participate in the STREAM-themed classes and activities, according to Ricks. The application period for students zoned for the school and seeking continuity into a magnet middle school, as well as non-zoned students wishing to attend Ruth Upson, begins Dec. 1 and remains open until Jan. 31, 2026. Once a parent applies, their student will be entered into a lottery process, which does not guarantee placement

STREAM Lab and enrichment programs like LEGO League, dance and step team, and sculpture club.” Ricks believes these opportunities will help students explore interests while building the skills needed for success. Kristen Galloway, a Ruth N. Upson Elementary parent and PTA member, is excited about the A-rated school becoming a magnet school and said it makes it even more of a “hidden gem.” “This new Magnet designation brings even more opportunities for our children to grow, explore and succeed,” Galloway said.

Your car. Your plan. Your agent.

Come Celebrate the Birth of our Savior C hristmas Eve Services:

3:30pm & 5:00pm

Cam Anderson Agent

(small children welcomed)

4555 San Juan Ave Jacksonville, FL 32210

Candlelight Worship

6:30pm

Candlelight Worship Lessons and Carols with Communion

View live streams of our Sunday services online at SJPCJAX.org

4275 Herschel St. • 384-4501 • 384-4500 Fax

Bus: 904-381-1206 Toll Free: 888-659-5960 spiritof1922.com

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

I can help you get the right auto coverage at a great rate. Call, click or stop by for a quote today.

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company State Farm Indemnity Company Bloomington, IL State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas Richardson, TX

We know great homes. EXPLORE STUNNING HOMES FOR SALE IN JACKSONVILLE | WWW.FLORIDANETWORKREALTY.COM | 904-388-5005 UN DE R CO NT CT RA

0 Algonquin Ave | $1,800,000

1560 Lancaster Terr #1500 | $1,300,000

1511 McDuff Ave S | $595,000

2918 Collier Ave | $495,000

5 Bed / 4 Full Bath / 1 Half Bath / 3,856 SF

2 Bed / 3 Full Bath / 1 Half Bath / 2,365 SF

2160 Forbes St | $1,250,000

4165 Roma Blvd | $1,200,000

4 Bed / 3 Full Bath / 1 Half Bath / 3,329 SF

4660 Astral St | $425,000

1037 S Fairwood Ln | $392,000

4 Units / 8 Bed / 4 Full Bath / 5,902 SF

DE R CO NT CT RA

3 Bed / 1 Full Bath / 1 Half Bath / 2,045 SF

2912 St Johns Ave 17 | $315,000 2 Bed / 2 Full Bath / 1,220 SF

2 Bed / 2 Full Bath / 1,237 SF

4 Bed / 2 Full Bath / 1 Half Bath / 1,800 SF

1289 Rensselaer Ave | $285,000

505 Lancaster St #4D | $549,000 3 Bed / 2 Full Bath / 1,635 SF

3 Bed / 1 Full Bath / 884 SF

3 Bed / 2 Full Bath / 1,505 SF

2979 St Johns Ave | $8,000/mo

5 Bed / 3 Full Bath / 1 Half Bath / 4,738 SF

M E E T YO U R J A C K S O N V I L L E R E A LT O R ® T E A M O F E X P E R T S

Billie Bernhardt 904-710-1550

Linda Maxwell & Sarah Leuthold

904-534-7253 / 233-5533

Archie Staley 336-262-4178

The Liz Bobeck Group 904-210-6399

Beverley Brooke 904-910-2782

Elizabeth Loftin

JulioCesar Mendez

904-477-0219

Allison Steilberg 904-252-5181

904-304-5458

Kathy Suber

904-509-0587

Heather Cosgrove

Heather Creel

904-903-8993

Margee Michaelis 904-614-6949

Tracy Thompson 904-445-8170

CeCe Cummings

904-631-4800

904-434-9777

Lisa Ly Nguyen 904-755-1911

The Tindol Williams Group

904-303-8564 / 304-9499

Susan Tuohy

904-707-6548

Gary DeLellis

904-582-4241

Linda Ohlrich

904-449-9257

Anita Vining 904-923-1511

Lee Sheftall Elmore 904-699-4503

Melissa Keyes & Bronwen Krause 904-616-6425 / 616-6523

The O’Steen Group

Paula Sheldrick

Joy Walker

Zackery Williams

904-465-1706

904-699-4417

720-475-0416

904-962-5479

©2025 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity.

• Exceptional support with the most powerful name in real estate • Personalized coaching sessions with a non-competing broker JOSH COHEN • Agent Development Program for new & experienced agents Managing Broker | Coach • Your earning potential is truly limitless in this environment 904-422-2031 josh.cohen@floridanetworkrealty.com

Buying a home? Contact me to discuss your financing options!

DECEMBER 2025

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

Road Traffic Victims Remembered at Bike Walk Jax Event

Councilman Jimmy Peluso speaks at the World Remembrance Day for Road Traffic Victims and vows to make changes in the city.

By Jennifer Jensen Families of traffic crash victims, advocates for street safety and city officials gathered at Artist Square Park on Saturday, Nov. 15, to commemorate World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. Bike Walk Jax, the City of Jacksonville Transportation Planning Division and the North Florida Transportation Planning Organization hosted it. “It’s a time to gather with each other,

remember those lost and advocate for change,” Bike Walk Jax Chair Lauren Rushing said. “Everyone has the right to get to their destination safely.” Bike Walk Jax is a local nonprofit whose mission is to educate, support, promote and advocate for the needs of people who walk and bike throughout Jacksonville. Between 2022 and 2025, there were 471 traffic-related deaths in Jacksonville. At the

event, these were represented by 471 white flags placed in front of the podium. “The only acceptable number of people killed on the roadways is zero,” Rushing said. Out of those deaths, 147 involved a pedestrian or bicyclist, according to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. In 2024, the city of Jacksonville was ranked as the 15th most dangerous metropolitan area for pedestrians

nationwide, as reported in Smart Growth America’s biannual Dangerous by Design Report (2024). So far this year, 138 people have been lost to traffic violence on the roadways. The public also heard from Madison Jackson, whose brother Drew Kohn was struck and killed while walking, as well as Teresa Rose, whose friend, Katie, lost her life while riding her bike. Rose was also hit and injured while riding her bike. “Cycling is for everyone, and we should all feel safe while riding,” Rose said. District 7 City Council Member Jimmy Peluso was also in attendance and promised to pass a resolution to protect bike lanes. “May we never see this many flags again in our city,” Peluso said. Rushing said Bike Walk Jax is also calling on the city to adopt an ordinance allowing for the implementation of speed cameras in school zones and to revise the school zone policy to include middle schools and some high schools, where appropriate. “We grieve and we remember those lost and we call on our leaders to make changes,” Rushing said. “We all have a part to play and only by working together can we end these tragedies.”

ZTA Goes All-In for Pink A group from the Zeta Tau Alpha Jacksonville Alumnae Chapter takes part in the American Cancer Society’s Strides Against Breast Cancer.

Zeta Tau Alpha Jacksonville Alumnae Chapter and UNF Collegiate Chapter handed out more than 3,000 pink ribbons to raise awareness for breast cancer in October. This is an annual philanthropic effort for the two organizations, with ZTA partnering with the NFL against breast cancer at “Crucial Catch” games since 1999. This October also marked the launch year for ZTA’s partnership with Loft, the women’s apparel company, for its annual Pink Day, held this year on Oct. 4. ZTA also took part in the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event.

Give the gift of Better

$500

Hearing

OFF

Help someone you love hear the magic of the season again

Purchase of NEW Hearing Aids. Use Promo Code: Resident

This offer applies to the purchase of two premium level hearing aids or can be split to receive a $250 discount towards the purchase of a single premium hearing aid. Expires 12/31/25.

OUR SPECIALTIES

Ears and Hearing • Nose and Sinus Throat and Voice • Head and Neck Pediatrics, Adolescents & Adults Cosmetic and Plastics

Call us at 904-880-0911 to learn more or schedule your visit and start your path to better hearing today. Scan to Learn More

Hear better. Live better.

RIVERSIDE 3 Shircliff Way | Suite 322 Dillon Building | Jacksonville, FL 32204

SOUTHSIDE 4203 Belfort Road | Suite 340

Roger Main Building | Jacksonville, FL 32216

ST. JOHNS 75 Jaidev Road | Suite 200 St Johns, FL 32259

SERVING PATIENTS IN JACKSONVILLE SINCE 2008 • WWW.ENTSPECIALISTSNORTHFLORIDA.COM

Local

36 FOLKS

Todd Reese and his dog, Teddy

By Jennifer Jensen Life has been fairly quiet for Todd Reese following a near-death experience that took years of recovery. In 2017, following Hurricane Irma, Reese developed pneumonia and was bedridden for some time. “What I didn’t know was that there was another big storm brewing inside of me called a factor five mutation,” Reese said. “I’m a real live mutant.” A factor five mutation is a genetic change in the F5 gene that can either increase the risk of blood clots or cause a bleeding disorder. When he was sick and bedridden, he developed a blood clot that led to a catastrophic pulmonary embolism. Thankfully, a friend came to check on him and made a life-saving call to 911. “I would not have been here, just a few days after that,” Reese said. “My lungs collapsed and I went into respiratory failure and cardiac arrest.” He was put on a ventilator and ended up in a coma. He was not expected to regain consciousness. “With a little bit of drama – melodrama, I would say – I removed that ventilator, and by the grace of God, I breathed,” Reese said. “I continued to breathe.” Reese returned home with a 24-hour caregiver and embarked on his long road to recovery, which included relearning how to eat, talk and walk. “It’s been a long journey,” he said. “The doctors here, especially at St. Vincent’s, they brought me back from the dead.” This journey was also one that ended his career, which

Florida Christian Apartments *Income/Age Limits Apply Professionally Managed by SPMLLC

e s e e R Todd MEET

began in social work and included time in advocacy and funding during the HIV pandemic. He helped build the clinic for the AIDS Healthcare Fund and started writing grant proposals to procure funding. He turned $100,000 into $3 million. He also helped start the medical case management program, which hired and trained people with HIV helps others navigate the disease. “I’m often called the grandfather of the program,” Todd Reese collects china, specifically Fukagawa Arita Landscape and Pagoda. Reese said. A turn into the wrong hospital room set him on the encouragement from a friend. path to helping people living with HIV and AIDS: While “For flips and giggles, I decided that I would publish a looking for a family member staying in the hospital, Reese book,” Reese said. accidentally entered the room of a man dying from AIDS. He has written two children’s books featuring Mistymoto, “I was frightened and left the room and went and visited a main character based on his beloved cocker spaniel. A third my relative, who was surrounded by family and friends and book is expected to be published around Christmas. all the care she could possibly need,” Reese said. “Even “People need something that makes them curious and though I was very young, this is the most shameful moment feel good and happy and adventurous,” Reese said. “I’ve of my life. To abandon or not come to the aid of someone had a lot of fun with it.” that was suffering.” He truly enjoys writing and hopes it offers comfort to He went back to the room, but the man had died, alone. those who read it. “It was that moment that I decided to dedicate my career “It’s therapy rolled into writing,” Reese said. “It really to helping people with HIV and AIDS,” Reese said. has rekindled my soul.” He procured funding He hopes the books will stay and established a with the children as they grow up process where vendors and accompany them through life. could apply for funding All his books end with a happy for mental health and ending, which, he said, is a must. outpatient and medical They are also all-inclusive and not care. This was before targeted to a specific group. For treatment options were Reese, it’s all about renewal, rebirth, available. He also resilience and, most importantly, became a database kindness. engineer and built the “There just isn’t enough of that first database to track all in the world today,” Reese said. the outcomes, measures Reese is no longer restricted and variables the federal to his little piece of land on Wolfe government required in Street. He started to venture out order to get funding. more these last couple of years. One Following his own Todd Reese Todd Reese and his foster dog, Linda of his favorite things is hunting for brush with death, Reese antiques and china. truly believes he’s here for a reason, though his journey back He collects Fukagawa Arita china and is currently to himself was difficult. He suffered some vision loss in obsessed with a particular pattern that features pagodas and both eyes because of the blood clots and for some time, he delicate landscapes. Not one to put his china in a cabinet was confined to a wheelchair, making it difficult to navigate and never use it, Reese sets his table with his favorite and venture to a lot of places. collection during holiday dinners. “The world does not really accommodate wheelchairs “It’s not just hidden and tucked away,” Reese said. very well and it doesn’t accommodate people with balance “My house is filled with it.” disorders very well,” he said. He also spends time caring for his rescue Teddy, It was during that time, confined to his home, that he another cocker spaniel, and a foster dog named Linda who rekindled his love of writing – spurred by his great-aunt and is 16 years old, blind and deaf. Both will make a debut in nurtured during nearly 30 years of grant writing – thanks to his upcoming books.

Now Leasing Spacious Studios

Season’s Green-ings from 5 Points Farm! Fresh, Local and “Beyond Organic”

Affordable Apartment Homes

LETTUCE | HERBS | MICRO GREENS | PRODUCE

2033 Post Street | Open Fri–Sun 11am-6pm | 5pointsfarmjax.com

(904) 381-4800 | 1-800-955-8771 / 711 TTY | 1115 S Edgewood Ave S., Jacksonville Fl 32205

Merry Christmas &

Thank You to all of my Clients, Friends and Family!

INSTALL OUR MOBILE APP Sign up today for FREE pickup and delivery!

Alterations, Window Treatments, Shoe Repair, Luggage & Handbags, Rug Cleaning, Wash & Fold (8lb. Minimum), Wedding Gown Preservation Ask about our FREE pick-up & delivery service!

WE APPRECIATE YOUR BUSINESS!

10%OFF

CeCe Cummings REALTOR®

Avondale/Ortega Metropolitan

your next dry cleaning order of $25.00 minimum or more!

904-434-9777

cececummings.com A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC

Coupon must be presented with incoming order. Offer Expires December 31, 2025; Not valid for employees; Not applicable to household items.

Stay Sharp this Christmas Let us wash, press and fold your winter clothes so you can focus on the ones who matter.

We look good when you look good! 2255 Oak St. | 387-0415 MON–FRI 8am–6pm | SAT 10am–2pm

DECEMBER 2025

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

Aunterial Wynn and Susan Painter with Rick Pariani and Shannon Blankinship Andrea, Catheren and Cole with Cal and Amira

Sip, Swirl and Support

Stephanie Cottey, Donna Cania and Ronda Brown

Thomas and Dania Goins

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

Sophia Oliveira with Arri Landsman-Roos

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

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

Life Changing Results

INDIVIDUALS • COUPLES • FAMILIES • BUSINESSES • FORENSIC

Dr. Justin D’Arienzo Psychologist

Mario Decunto Counselor

Wendy Monger Academic Coach

Dr. Amy Hartley Psychologist

Dr. Michael Nackashi Psychologist

Dr. Erica Janson Psychologist

Mack D’Arienzo Furry Psychologist

Request an appointment: San Jose/Lakewood | 904-379-8094 | drdarienzo.com

Tonya Tackett and Loraine Rice with Kelly Duran and Jamie Forman

Gabi Mirian with Diana Sarghi

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

y t i n u Commg Guide Givin Part 2

By Lauren K. Weedon

Charities reveal what they need most and how you can help

‘Tis the season for giving, sharing and spreading joy. Charity Chat’s Community Giving Guide continues this month, highlighting more wish lists from area nonprofits and highlighting small businesses in our Resident communities that give back with each purchase. The spirit of the season shines brightest through generosity and compassion. Whether you’re donating to a local nonprofit, supporting families in need, or volunteering your talents, your efforts help make the holidays brighter for our entire community. HOPE AT HAND Greatest Needs: Volunteers, glue sticks, colored pencils, scissors, paper and other art supplies. How to Help Today: Drop off items at 3886 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207. Learn More: www.hopeathand.org HOPE HAVEN Greatest Needs: Kitchen supplies (paper plates, bowls, utensils) and cleaning supplies. Financial donations at hope-haven.org/donate How to Help Today: Mail or drop off items to 4600 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207. Learn More: www.hope-haven.org

Blue Star Families Jacksonville hosts veterans and their families at its 2025 Welcome Week at the Community First Igloo.

Photo: Phillips Photography

DEVELOPMENTAL LEARNING CENTER Greatest Needs: Cleaning and paper products (for example: Clorox wipes, Lysol Multi-Surface Cleaner, paper towels, toilet paper, bleach, and trash bags). Monetary donations at DLCJax.org How to Help Today: Drop off items to the Developmental Learning Center, 4101-1 College Street, Jacksonville, FL 32205. Learn More: www.DLCJax.org

DREAMS COME TRUE OF JACKSONVILLE Greatest Needs: New, unwrapped gifts for teens and sensory toys. Monetary donations at DreamsComeTrue.org. How to Help: Drop off items at 6803 Southpoint Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32216 on Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Shop the online Amazon Toy List and have items delivered directly at https:// bit.ly/DCT-ToyList Learn More: www.DreamsComeTrue.org

BLUE STAR FAMILIES JACKSONVILLE Greatest Needs: Financial donations How to Help Today: Make your one-time or monthly financial donation online, opting to support Blue Star Families Jacksonville or to apply your gift “where need is greatest.” Learn More: bluestarfam.org/chapters/ jacksonville/

At the Cathedral this Christmas Season

Elevate Your Waterfront

lifestyle

CHRISTMAS EVE DECEMBER 24 4, 6 & 11 p.m.

CHRISTMAS MORNING Through the heartbeat of DECEMBER 25 our sacred we 10:30worship, a.m. bring together people NEW YEAR’S EVE of DECEMBER 31 to profound difference 4 p.m. serve God, to love and Visit jaxcathedral.org/ learn from one another. Christmas-services

Your deck isn’t just a structure, it’s a stage for unforgettable moments. Let’s build yours today! 904.822.8582 • bwmarineconstruction.com

ble a l i a v A s rtificate

for more information.

Gift Ce

PRESS PAUSE

256 East Church Street Jacksonville, FL 32202

(904) 356-5507 • JaxCathedral.org

Spa Memberships

Yoga Memberships

starting at

per month

Visit our website to book your massage or register for a class.

904-680-7344 | 2105 Park Street Suite 1, Jacksonville FL, 32204 | solunayogaspa.com

Pine Castle celebrates the dignity of every person by creating opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental differences to learn, work, and build lasting connections.

PINE CASTLE Greatest Needs: Financial donations How to Help Today: Join Pine Castle’s monthly giving program or make a onetime donation at pinecastle.org/donate. Learn More: pinecastle.org RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES OF JACKSONVILLE Greatest Needs: Shower curtains, pillows, car seats, household and cleaning supplies, batteries, snacks and stuffed animals. View the wish lists and purchase online: rmhcjacksonville. mindfulgiving.org How to Help Today: Drop off items at 824 Children’s Way, Jacksonville, FL 32207 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Learn More: www.rmhcjacksonville.org THE SANCTUARY ON 8TH STREET Greatest Needs: Monetary donations for the “Love Like Ms. Linda” initiative. This new initiative at the Sanctuary is a way to further support the children and families in their after-school program through basic needs assistance, additional academic enrichment opportunities, mental health counseling, and increased community engagement in honor of the long-time Sanctuary employee, Ms. Linda Farmer. How to Help Today: Donate online at: sanctuaryon8th.networkforgood.com/ projects/260216-love-like-ms-lindainitiative Learn More: www.sanctuaryon8th.org VISION IS PRICELESS Greatest Needs: Monetary donations at visionispriceless.org, gas gift cards, and office furniture. How to Help Today: Make a gift online or mail a donation to 6161 Arlington Expressway, Jacksonville, FL 32211. Learn More: www.visionispriceless.org

DECEMBER 2025

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

Channeling Compassion into Action

Friday, Nov. 21, was a day to reflect on and celebrate the impact and importance of local philanthropy as the Association of Fundraising Professionals Florida, First Coast Chapter (AFP FL, First Coast) hosted National Philanthropy Day at the Hyatt Regency Downtown Jacksonville. As it does every year, AFP FL, First Coast celebrated organizations and individuals who have left an indelible mark on the Jacksonville community through their extraordinary generosity, leadership and vision. The 2025 National Philanthropy Day Award honorees are: • Outstanding Philanthropist: Allen and Delores Lastinger • Outstanding Corporation: Ascension St. Vincent’s • Outstanding Foundation: The Daily’s Foundation • Outstanding Champion of Diversity: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Alpha Beta Eta Omega Chapter • Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser: Sam Dean, Brian Seay and the Wolfson Children’s Bass Tournament Committee • Outstanding Small Business or Civic Organization: 1010XL • Next Generation Award: Kindness in a Diverse Society (KIDS)

Kerri Stewart and Brooks Biagini with Peyton Clark and Krissy Pottenkulam

Sara McMillan and Gabrielle Dean-Rector with Emily Lightsey

Helping you Celebrate the Holiday Season since 2006!

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

Mary Harms, Kristin Hall and Sandy Lugo with Carla Chin and Brian Ward

Marcus Haile, Meghan Leach and Elizabeth Lawrence with Anita Edwards, Lisa Alexander and Isabel Bachmann

Celebrating Amazing Yea

We’re proud to be your local natural foods store! @Grassroots5Pts TheGrassrootsMarket.com | (904) 384-4474 | 2007 Park St. (Located in Historic 5 Points) Mon.-Sat. 8am-8pm, Sun. 9am-6pm

VENETIAN PRINCESS PIROUETTE

Richard Naylor and Edye Wright with Keli and Tom Coughlin

Jeanna Dillard with David Clark and Lauren Weedon

Now Open!

Saleya

40 |

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

DECEMBER 2025

DTJax Awards Honor 2025 Downtown Champions

RIVIERA CAFE

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

Caroline Mullen, Mav Stoothoff, Lauren Heny and S.J. Osborne celebrate The Greenhouse and Bar’s award for Small Business of the Year at the DTJax Awards ceremony held at the Lark on Nov. 12.

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

2006 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207

Downtowner of the Year Award winner Bryan Moll with David Marovich, Visit Jacksonville President/CEO Michael Corrigan and Michael Ryan

Jacksonville’s Only Performing Arts High School

WHERE ARTS AND CREATIVITY GROW

Downtown Vision, Inc. hosted its 11th annual DTJax Awards on Thursday, Nov. 13, at The Lark event and meeting space. The event celebrates the people and projects that have made a difference in the downtown community. This year, DVI debuted the Downtown Activator of the Year award, recognizing an individual or organization whose work brings Downtown to life. Through their dedication and creativity, Hush Hush Headphones transform ordinary spaces into vibrant gathering places that inspire connection, foster belonging and build a stronger community. Hush Hush Headphones owners David and Cory McCracken have brought silent discos to many local venues, including Sip and Stroll on the Southbank and Riverside Arts Market. The additional 2025 DTJAX Award recipients are: • Downtowner of the Year: Bryan Moll, Gateway Jax • Small Business of the Year: The Greenhouse & Bar • Retail Project of the Year: Pour Taproom and Pizza Dynamo • Downtown Project of the Year: Union Terminal Warehouse • Downtown Achievement Award: Guy Parola, Downtown Investment Authority • Ambassador of the Year: Trai Robinson VISIT WWW.RESIDENTNEWS.NET TO READ MORE ABOUT EACH AWARD AND ITS 2025 RECIPIENT.

THE SALVATION ARMY

NEEDS YOU TO RING THE BELLS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!

SAVE THE DATE Extravaganza: Saturday, February 21 Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts | 300 Water Street For more information about DA and auditions visit DA-arts.org

YOUR TIME AND EFFORT HELPS SUPPORT VITAL PROGRAMS IN NORTHEAST FLORIDA NOVEMBER 15-DECEMBER 24 MONDAY-SATURDAY 10 A.M. TO 7 P.M.

2445 San Diego Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32207 | Where Arts and Academics Meet Excellence

Presented by Developing Artists Foundation www.developingartistsfoundation.org

TO REGISTER, VISIT REGISTERTORING.COM OR SCAN HERE

DECEMBER 2025

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

On the Wings of Generosity

Anne Marie and Paul Van Wie

Armani Williams and Kaytlyn Pratt

Kevin LeCointe and Ileana Martinez with Ida Alami and Amy Warden

Angels for Allison (The Allison Brundick Haramis Foundation) hosted its 2025 Flight of Fancy Gala at Timuquana Country Club on Friday, Nov. 21. The 2025 Flight of Fancy was presented by the

Balinda Brown and Janet Makinde

Dave Holder and Sahar Alsartawi with Kiley Casciano and Michael Strahl

Jason and Elaine Koziol

Rebecca Walker, Craig Walker, Jr., Billy Young and Cameron Perry Walker with Cameron, Craig, Abigail and Hunter Walker

Cameron and Craig Walker Family and co-chaired by Katie Athey, Ellen Gould and Rebecca Sale. Flight of Fancy is Angels for Allison’s largest annual fundraiser, and the evening delivered elegance and compassion

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

THANK YOU NOTES 42 FROM MY EMPTY NEST PERCH By Susanna Barton

Well jingle my bells, it’s the holiday season in the Resident Community and here I am again to tinsel your tree with some strands of Grinch and Debbie Downer and bah-humbug. If you’re not in the mood, please peruse the Junior Residents section and check back with me later. But I really hope you stick around because as cheerless as it is, I feel this conversation and expression of gratitude is worth a listen. Here’s my thesis: “Life’s most terrible no good very bad experiences always usher us toward our unique purpose when we can learn from them and illuminate a way for others.” That is my unsophisticated way of describing the vision of goodness folks can only see when they’re at their lowest. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. illustrated it best when he said, “Only in the darkness can you see the stars.” Fred Rogers addressed the angel moments of this concept when he encouraged people to “look for the helpers” during life’s lowest of low moments. Here are a few other phrases offering similar sentiments from unknown wise people:

In the darkest nights, the stars become our “guiding lights; trust in your own guiding light.” darkest abyss, lies the birthplace “Inoftheyour brightest transformation.” Stars cannot shine without darkness, “ and you are destined to illuminate the world.” When you feel lost in the shadows, “ remember that every shadow is cast by light.” These quotes are OK and put some words around the hope we see illuminated in the darkness. But they don’t catch the whole drift. They’re not picking up the whole enchilada I’m trying to throw down here. Thank goodness for Sister Joan Chittister, bad a** nun and author of “The Gift of Years.” Her musing from a recent newsletter brings it all taco-ther. “Only the experience of our own darkness gives us the light we need to be of help to others whose journey into the dark spots of life is only just beginning. It’s then that our own

We help reduce the stress of life’s biggest changes. Whether you’re relocating, downsizing, or settling a loved one’s estate, we’re here to support you with compassion and expert care.

Call today to schedule your FREE consultation! Caring Transitions of West Jacksonville

904-299-9198 | CaringTransitionsofWestJacksonville.com

SCAN TO LEARN MORE

Don’t let viruses sneak up on you partner! • Network set-up • Computer clean-up

• Installation & consultation • Small business & home

ORTEGA COMPUTER REPAIR CALL BRYAN ARNOLD TODAY 904.410.0127

Ocr.410.0127@gmail.com | Monday - Friday: 9:30am-5:30pm

Your Inside Weather Guys

taste of darkness qualifies us to be an illuminating part of the human expedition. Without that, we are only words, only false witnesses to the truth of what it means to be pressed to the ground and rise again. Darkness is a mentor of what it means to carry the light we ourselves have brought to blaze into the unknown parts of life so that others may also see and take hope,” Chittister wrote. This isn’t a holy-roller or religious concept either–it’s a way of the universe thing, a calling of our humanity maybe. I think the lights we see when we’re on our backs–in the pit in our I’ve-fallen-and-I-can’t-get-up distress–are not just helpers and angels and do-gooders. They’re night lights showing us where to go next. It’s our job to get back up, dust ourselves off and figure out how that terrible, no good, very bad thing equipped us to move forward and help others. That, I think, is how we find our life purpose–in the darkness, when we’re in despair, wondering what the actual what. That’s when we start seeing lights that say, “Hey you! There’s a door opening, come check it out! This way–over here!” I know, ho, ho, ho. Very Christmas-y and enlightening. Sorry, not sorry, I’m going to keep going, this is too important–like Clark Griswald’s Jelly of the Month bonus, it may just be the gift that keeps on giving! Maybe this is one of those reasons for the seasons even. Remember the Wise Men, those We Three Kings we like to sing about this time of the year? They followed a star and look what transpired–good, transformational things started happening for them and their fellow humans. When terrible, no good, very bad things happen to us, it’s a calling to transform it into something much better with the unique superpowers we’ve been given. I’ll use myself as an example. For the past few years, I’ve been wondering how the HECK I got into gerontology and so seamlessly followed a path toward a master’s degree and life after. Why did I care so much about getting older adults prepared for life’s second half? Why would I even bother with this stuff? Why am I not on a Bahamian island, leathered and smoking cigarettes, sipping rum drinks and reading trash fiction? I answered my own question when I took a quick inventory of my lowest darkest over the last few decades: the death of my mom and grandparents 30 years ago; a really traumatizing remote caregiving situation for an older couple that lasted way, way too long; and the unexpected passing of my dad, who had always been my big light in the darkness. What do all these things have in common? Parental loss and older adults. Death. Suckage. Stress and despair. A lot of total yuck! And guess what: All the open doors that have followed in my pursuit of gerontology studies (the topic on which I wrote last month) have come when I took what I learned from those experiences and worked to show others through it. The well-paved paths are revealed when you go through a terrible no good thing, learn from it and pass it on. The pass-it-on part is where our purpose is, in my very humble opinion. As I write this, I still think of all the parents and families who lost loved ones in the Guadalupe River flooding last summer in Texas. All the sweet Camp Mystic girls–all the folks in their happy place who lost their lives in an instant. I wonder how their families will turn this around. What good will come from such devastation? Who will be blessed by this terrible loss? I think, too, of people like the Haramis family, who turned their daughter’s tragic death into new support for people who have lost loved ones and need help with funeral arrangements through Angels for Allison. I also think about the many nonprofit groups and organizations who have taken pain and turned it into hope–there are too many to list! I think about my friend, Laura, who lost two children and has turned their legacy into a scholarship fund that gives students new ways to thrive. I think about the origin of The Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital, which was founded by a grieving parent seeking better healthcare opportunities for children in Northeast Florida. We all go through horror in our lives. And at least once or twice–and in some really sad and unthinkable cases, time and time again–we find ourselves flat on our backs looking up at the heavens wondering how in the world this happened and how we got there. Look for the light. Look for the lessons. Try out the new superpowers this unimaginable experience made manifest. Then get up and use your newfound strengths with all the trust and hope you can muster–and be grateful for it! This is where the healing happens. This is where the doors open and our true life purpose begins. May your holidays be merry and very, very bright! Susanna Barton likes holiday shows but prefers to watch true-crime reruns like “Dateline” and “48 Hours” to sharpen her contingency planning skills. A Granada resident, Barton has written professionally for The Jacksonville Business Journal, The Resident and The Bolles School. She currently manages an online community called Grand Plans, which encourages healthy conversations about aging and preparing for it on www.mygrandplans.com.

100%

financing available ask for details. Air Conditioning • Heating • Refrigeration • Clean Air Professionals License #CACA041190

Choose Your COOL Deal

Only with new full HVAC system installation, cannot be combined with other offers Expires 12-31-25

FREE

3 Year Labor Warranty $489 Value

500 FREE

Gift Card

Air Purification System $1299 Value

500

Instant Savings

1/2 FREE 2 Year Comfort Club OFF Membership Duct Cleaning

“Weather Engineers has been family owned and locally operated since 1963.”

Call Today 904-503-7 7 11 or Visit Us weatherengineers.com

DECEMBER

2025

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

| 43

Wayne Wood Celebrates 80 Years with Blessed Friends

RESPECTED. EXPERIENCED. PROFESSIONAL.

Proudly serving homeowners in NE Florida for 39 years.

(904) 388-4400 norvillerealty.com

5335 Ortega Blvd. | Jacksonville

HISTORIC AVONDALE

ORTEGA YACHT CLUB

Ellen Cotrill with Renee Parenteau and Jim Agee NEW PRICE

Elizabeth Place $879,999

Lakeside Dr. $699K, $649K & $375K

Beautiful two-story home with 4BR 3BA and 2,490 SF, with a private backyard retreat. Nestled on a tree-lined street and steps from Avondale boutiques and restaurants!

Your choice of 3 lovely condos with 180° panoramic and/or river views for miles! Fun, friendly community with weekly socials, riverfront pool, garage parking, gym & more!

OLD ORTEGA

BEAU RIVAGE

SHEFFIELD SLIER & BILL SHEFFIELD

BILL SHEFFIELD & SHEFFIELD SLIER

UNDER CONTRACT

Iroquois Avenue $635,000

Lana Shuttleworth with Jim Webb and Gary Sass

“Dr. Doug” Wilder, OBGYN with ‘Baby Wayne’

Toshi with Alyssa Key

Wayne Wood’s friends, cohorts and mischievous merry-prankster pals were out in costume regalia for what was dubbed “Wayne’s First 80 Years,” a birthday celebration of the many achievements Wood has made throughout his lifetime. It was held at the Casket Factory, one of Wood’s favorite projects. The newly renovated Jacksonville History Center played host as patrons enjoyed fire breathers, cocktails, camaraderie, cake and a celebratory presentation of Wood’s journey on Saturday, Nov. 15. From baby pics to optometric excellence, Wood has made his mark on Jacksonville through preservation, education, activism, advocacy, authoring and editing books and manuscripts – all while pursuing civic change and political campaign posturing to boot. From advising the Carter campaign, to working with local legislators to reimagine Hemming Park – now James Weldon Johnson Park – Wood has been pushing, pulling, tugging and acting on initiatives that move Jacksonville. And, since his formative years, has been a true renaissance man. Wood thanked his followers as they ‘flocked’ to the fearless leader, while they all ate cake and raised a toast to the next 80 years.

St. Johns Avenue $600,000

Handsome Cape Cod style home nestled on nearly 1 acre in the heart of Ortega! Windows galore, gleaming hardwood floors, 4BR 3.5BA & a private suite upstairs!

Lovely 3BR/2BA 2,271SF condominium with panoramic St. Johns River views from downtown to NAS Jax! Bring your design & décor skills and make it your dream home!

HAWKES POINTE

ORTEGA OAKS CONDO

LEE NORVILLE 904.707.3030

NEW LISTING

Redtail Drive $365,000

Impeccably maintained 4BR/2BA home with 2,256SF, nestled next to a nature preserve! Convenient Oakleaf community with walking trails, lakes, playground & sports fields!

LEE GUDAL DAVIS 904.608.6881

Lee Norville

904.707.3030

Winfield Duss

904.710.7948

DAVID TAYLOR 904.424.3946

Cathleen Lee

904.505.3468

John Fox

904.699.2619

BILL SHEFFIELD & SHEFFIELD SLIER

Christine Allmand

904.537.1236

Bill Sheffield

904.445.8340

Congrats to our Sales Leader!

Columbus Circle $244,500

Gorgeous, completely remodeled 2BR/1.5BA Ortega Oaks condo! Light, bright, open & beautiful! New kitchen & flooring, fabulous location, convenient to shopping & restaurants. It’s a 10!

Grant Cooper

904.TRUEJAX

Sheffield Slier

David Taylor

904.525.0816

Lee Gudal Davis 904.608.6881

904.424.3946

Lisa Anthony Tucker 904.868.6056

William Milne Senior Residential Mortgage Lender

Contact me to learn more about home financing solutions. 904.465.4987 | wmilne@guildmortgage.net

Linda Shepherd

Suzanna Prockow with Scott Makar

Peggy Harrell Jennings and Thomas Jennings

904.955.0442

NMLS ID #648915

44 |

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

Nature’s Beauty Abounds in JaxParks Mural

DECEMBER 2025

Salty Soirée Celebrates Conservation and Community Spirit

Lyn Pannone, Connie McDaniel and Cynthia Jones-Jackson with Sally Perez, Pam Hart, Janyce Dawkins and Becky Grimes

Marsha Hatcher (shown here) and Lisa Lofton spent just over a week completing this new mural.

Lisa Lofton and Marsha Hatcher pose before the new Jax Parks mural at its offices at the Ed Ball Building.

There is no rest for the weary when one is as creative as Marsha Hatcher and Lisa Lofton. Besides speaking engagements and having art exhibits all over Jacksonville and beyond, these two dynamos just completed a 10-foot-by-90-foot mural on the fourth floor of the Ed Ball Building in Downtown Jacksonville – in just seven and a half days. City of Jacksonville’s JaxParks commissioned the mural, designed by Lofton, for its offices. Hatcher and Lofton, assisted by fellow artist Annelies Dykgraaf, spent hours each day climbing ladders to finish the stunning tribute to Jacksonville’s parks, with flowing waves as a background. Visual representations of noted Jacksonville parks and landmarks fill each letter in “Jax Parks,” including Hannah Park, Artist Walk, Balis Park, Treaty Oak, Tilly Fowler Park, Memorial Park and Friendship Fountain. “While the mural focuses on the theme of Jacksonville parks, we hope it sparks curiosity and encourages viewers to explore and cherish these community assets,” said Hatcher. “Through this piece, we wanted to evoke feelings of peace, admiration, and inspiration, reminding us all of the importance of preserving and enjoying our local green spaces. Ultimately, this mural aims to contribute positively to the workspace environment by introducing elements of the natural world that uplift and motivate those who see it.”

Mark Dawkins, Wanda Willis and Floyd Willis with Morris Applewhite, Felecia Winbush and Sally Perez

The Thornton Family at the newly-erected sign installed inside Fort Clinch State Park to recognize their donation.

North Florida Land Trust’s Salty Soirée fundraising event raised $70,000 to support the organization’s continued conservation work in Northeast Florida. The event was held on Amelia Island on Oct. 30 to celebrate Jack and Kathleen Thornton’s donation of 388 acres next to Fort Clinch State Park, which was made to NFLT late last year. The Thorntons were among 170 guests who gathered to celebrate NFLT and recognize the Thorntons’ generous gift, which will help “protect the state park and ensure this land will remain in its natural state.” This event is anticipated to become an annual NFLT celebration. The event committee consisted of Janyce and Mark Dawkins, Randy and Allison DeFoor, Becky and Tommy Grimes, Pam and Joe Hart, Cynthia Jones-Jackson, Connie and Ken McDaniel, Lyn Pannone and Steve Nadeau and Sally and Tony Perez.

Inspired by the Past.

Built for Your Future. Transform Your Space with Timeless Craftsmanship At Oak Wells Aquatics, we blend modern innovation with classic elegance. Based in Jacksonville, we bring over 100 years of combined experience to every pool and spa we design – whether for a commercial facility or a residential retreat.

Ready to make a splash that lasts generations? Call 904-619-3281 or visit oakwellsaquatics.com to schedule your custom design consultation.

60+ YEARS EXPERIENCE AS A LEADING PROVIDER OF QUALITY IN-HOME HEALTHCARE.

Scan to visit our website

Respite Care • Personal Care • Home Health Care Nutrition/Exercise Assistance • Companionship Transportation

Family-Owned

Give us a call (904) 396-7553

904homehealth.com

The Way

45 WE WERE

Jacqueline Wilson Jacqueline poses with her family, which today includes two grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and two great-greatgrandchildren.

Jacqueline Wilson

Donald Wilson

By Fabrizio Gowdy At 101 years old, Jacqueline Wilson exudes the resilience and humility so characteristic of “the Greatest Generation,” as Tom Brokaw dubbed it. Seventy-nine years since arriving at Ellis Island on the S.S. Washington, her admiration and gratitude for America and its people have not waned. “People think I’m French. I’m French-born, but I’m not French. I’m American, and I think the American people are very good people,” said Jacqueline. Jacqueline was born in Paris, France, in September 1924, next door to the Notre Dame Cathedral. The daughter of a banker and a housekeeper, she grew up in a modest apartment and enjoyed a happy childhood. At 16, she began working as a seamstress’s apprentice. That same year, the German army marched into France, and Jacqueline and her brother fled to the countryside, where they slept in barns and lived off the kindness of farmers.

I’m French-born, but I’m not French. I’m American, and I think the American people are very good people. – Jacqueline Wilson

Jacqueline eventually returned to the city and earned a job at Maggy Rouff, one of Paris’ leading fashion houses. Late in the war, German soldiers ordered her to report to a factory where she would sew parachutes. Her time in the factory was brief, however; her first night working there

was June 6, 1944 – the same day more than 150,000 Allied troops landed at Normandy. Ten weeks later, Paris had been liberated, and Jacqueline joined hundreds of thousands of Parisians in cheering on the Free French Army as it marched into the city. Among those who had landed at Normandy was a handsome 25-year-old American serviceman named Donald Wilson. Donald was camped on the ChampsÉlysées, awaiting orders to proceed to Germany, when he met Jacqueline and struck up a conversation with the help of a little French girl who translated. The two agreed to write, and after three months of waiting, Jacqueline received her first letter from Donald. After nearly two years of correspondence, Donald returned to Paris to meet Jaqueline’s family and ask permission to marry her. In July 1946, Jaqueline arrived in New York, where she remembers crying tears of joy as her ship passed the Statue of Liberty. Donald was waiting for her; it was the first time she had seen him in civilian clothes. The two took a bus to Tampa the next day and were married a week later. Jaqueline wore a wedding dress she had sewn herself. Adjusting to life in America was difficult. Jacqueline and her husband moved frequently as Donald struggled to find work. Her mother-in-law disapproved of Donald marrying a foreigner, and Jacqueline felt isolated and lonely at home all day while he worked. She cried often and wondered if she’d made a mistake by leaving home. “I used to write once a week and get letters from home and cry; everybody said I was crazy to leave my mamma and daddy,” said Jacqueline. Her life was brightened by the birth of her daughter, Mary Ann, in 1947. She gradually learned English from the radio and television and became a U.S. citizen the following

year. Everywhere the family moved, Jacqueline met other war brides and French speakers, forming lasting friendships that helped her through those early challenging years. After 17 moves in 13 years of marriage, Jacqueline and Donald settled in Jacksonville, living first on the Southside, then on the Westside. She still recalls standing at the edge of the St. Johns River and seeing a manatee for the first time. “I’d never seen anything like that,” said Jacqueline. Jacqueline got a job in the jewelry department at the JCPenney department store Downtown, where she worked for decades. She still vividly remembers lining up with her coworkers and shaking hands with JCPenney founder James Cash Penney – “Mr. Penney” – when he visited his Jacksonville location. Jacqueline had the joy of watching her family grow over the years and now counts two grandchildren, five greatgrandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren among her blessings. Donald passed away in 2006 after 60 years of marriage, and almost all her fellow war brides and friends are gone, too. Jacqueline remains an increasingly rare witness to an era that will soon be gone entirely from living memory. “As my life comes to an end, I just don’t meet people like me anymore, they’re gone, they’re gone,” said Jacqueline.

Get yourself a job. If you’re not too happy in that job, be patient, save money and then look for another job. – Jacqueline Wilson

She now spends her days at Riverside Post Acute, where she recently celebrated her 101st birthday surrounded by family. Jacqueline’s optimistic spirit remains unwavering. When asked for advice to her younger self who was questioning her decision to come to America, Jacqueline’s resilience shines through. “Get yourself a job. If you’re not too happy in that job, be patient, save money and then look for another job,” said Jacqueline. Another of Jacqueline’s qualities, her genuine humility, is evident in the way she considers her remarkable life story nothing special. “There are millions of people like me that came from other places,” she said. “Don’t brag and make my story a bigger deal than it is.” But with Jacqueline Wilson’s story, no bragging is necessary.

Give the Gift of HairPeace With a Hairpeace Gift Card, guests can choose from color, cuts, texture services, and products! PURCHASE ONLINE OR AT THE FRONT DESK 904-356-6856

seekhairpeace.com

@seekhairpeace

Junior RESIDENTS

We are all about the love of God through Jesus Christ! Corner of Talbot and Hershel Avenues

www.aumcjax.org

Worship at 10 am

Faith, Service and Gratitude

Scout Max H. attends Troop 2’s annual spaghetti dinner fundraiser.

Mr. Robert Price and his son Logan

Mr. Elias and his granddaughter Rubie

As a designated Purple Star Campus, St. Paul’s Catholic School remains committed to providing strong support and recognition for its military-connected students and families year-round. For Veterans Day, however, it took extra care to recognize and celebrate veterans and their families, beginning with a Veterans Day Mass, during which special blessings were bestowed upon military families in gratitude for their service and sacrifice; following the mass, Bishop Kenny High School’s NJROTC led a flag-raising ceremony as well. Guests were invited to share stories of service over coffee and donuts and had opportunities to view the school’s “Wall of Heroes,” honoring family members and loved ones who have served. “St. Paul’s is deeply committed to supporting our military community,” said Principal Kim Repper. “We are grateful for the opportunity to honor those who have served and to teach our students the importance of faith, sacrifice, and gratitude.”

A Saintly Celebration Assistant Scoutmaster Chip Wickenden said tickets for this time-honored community event “practically sell themselves.”

Al Dente and All In for Community Nearly 300 pounds of pasta were boiled, and more than 1,000 meals were served Nov. 7 at St. Johns Presbyterian Church during Boy Scouts of America Troop 2’s annual spaghetti dinner fundraiser, a tradition dating back more than 50 years – with proceeds funding summer camp in the North Carolina mountains, weekend camping trips and service projects. “What makes it a success is the hard work and support of all the scouts, leaders, and parents,” said Scoutmaster Alan Wilson. A $10 ticket to the event included a hearty meal of spaghetti, meat or veggie sauce, grated parmesan, freshly made salad, garlic bread, desserts and a drink. Troop committee member Sean Davis has made the veggie sauce from scratch for the last eight years, which involves an hour of chopping, two hours of sauteing and five hours of double-boiling. “It’s a labor of love that we look forward to every year,” said Davis. The exact origins of the spaghetti dinner are unknown; Assistant Scoutmaster Chip Wickenden said he has found records of the fundraiser dating back to 1972 but believes the event dates to the 1960s.

First grade teacher, Ms. Jordan Nelson poses with Hayes A., Owen R., Ella S., Danielle A. and Graylin T.

Assumption Catholic School celebrated All Saints Day with its annual All Saints Day Parade, bringing joy and faith to its campus and everyone on it. Celebrated on Friday, Oct. 31, the festivities were enjoyed by all, with everyone from Pre-K to eighth grade joining in with their creative costumes. Adding to the joy was a special appearance by Bishop Erik Pohlmeier, who participated in the parade with his own “Pope Mobile.”

Have a Holly Jolly, Healthy Holiday IST • DR .

L IA

TRY SPEC IS

Most insurances and care credit accepted

I C DE N T

4411 Roosevelt Blvd. | Suite 594 | Ortega Park 904.423.1377 | kids1dentistry.com

LA • P E D I

TR A

The Gift of Good Oral Health For a Joyful and Bright Christmas

Book Today

DECEMBER 2025

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

Math Meets the NFL

Jr. Residents | 47

Episcopal Hosts Sessions to Help Parents Support Teens Through College Stress Parents of ninth through twelfth graders at Episcopal School of Jacksonville attended two sessions discussing ways to support their teenagers amid the stressors surrounding college searches and other factors facing teens today. Episcopal School of Jacksonville Director of Health Safety and Well-Being Programming Dr. Elise Fallucco led the sessions for “Upper School Stress: Reframing the College Search and Promoting Well-Being Along the Way,” which featured Director of College Counseling Julie Carter, Associate Director of College Counseling May Ibasco and Director of Student Services Amy Burrows Perkins. Topics discussed included ways to help students develop strong senses of identity outside of cultural messages suggesting their

Episcopal School of Jacksonville Director of College Counseling Julie Carter speaks at one of two sessions for “Upper School Stress,” shown here with Associate Director of College Counseling May Ibasco and Director of Student Services Amy Burrows Perkins.

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

Cross-Country Kudos Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Foye Oluokun poses with “Tackling Decimals” classroom winner.

Fifth graders at Riverside Presbyterian Day School wrapped up their “Tackling Decimals” math unit with a surprise visit from the Jacksonville Jaguars. “Tackling Decimals” is a unit that incorporates real-world sports data into its learning. Throughout the football season, students have analyzed game statistics to understand percentages, decimals, and problem-solving better. Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Foye Oluokun made a special guest appearance to recognize all their hard work, awarding trophies to class winners and sharing advice on the importance of hard work and dedication on and off the field.

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

Assumption Catholic School is celebrating its boys’ and girls’ Livy S., Hadley D., Claire E., and Valerie C., earned seventh place cross-country teams for their impressive performance at the Florida overall. The boys’ team – Ian P., Jackson L., Max H., Andrew H., Middle School State Championships last month. Luke K., Park S., Sebi C., Lucas C., Maxi C. and Santi C. – placed The teams competed against 22 teams and more than 200 runners sixth, with Jackson L. also earning recognition as a Top 20 finisher at the championships, which took place on Friday, Oct. 31 and with his 16th place overall finish. Saturday, Nov. 1. The girls’ team, comprised of Bizzy H., Ceci S.,

Limitless Opportunities Opportunity is more than access—it’s skillfully guided growth. Our faculty and staff are masters of creating a culture where students thrive and achieve excellence. Here, opportunity lives in every corner: in classrooms, on stages, in labs, on fields and in studios. Students are immersed in academics, the fine arts, athletics and activities that expand their opportunities today, so more things are possible tomorrow.

Bolles.org Pre-K through Grade 12, Day & Boarding School

48 | Jr. Residents |

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

DECEMBER 2025

Crusaders Clinch Fourth State Championship in Five Years For the fourth time in five years, the Bishop Kenny High School boys’ swim team has brought home the state championship. The boys competed in the Florida High School Athletic Association Class 2A State Championship on Nov. 7 in Ocala, edging out Belen Jesuit and Mater Lakes Academy with an accumulated 244.5 points to take the victory. Senior Carter Wright earned two individual victories in the 50 freestyle and 100 backstroke. Wright is the most decorated swimmer in Bishop Kenny history, with five individual state titles, six relay titles and three team championships. At Bishop Kenny’s signing ceremony last month, he committed to the University of Alabama to continue his academic and athletic careers. “It takes an incredible amount of teamwork and discipline to reach these heights,” said Head Coach Laurel Valley. “I’m so proud of what our athletes have accomplished together.” Carter Wright (seated), Miguel Aguilar, Lukas Morrell, Liam Roberts, Head Coach Laurel Valley, Chance Bottenfield, Peter de Boer

A Nifty 50 Celebration First graders at Assumption Catholic School partied like it was the 1950s to celebrate the “Nifty 50th Day of School.” Students donned their best 50s-inspired outfits – from poodle skirts to leather jackets – for the festivities, held on Oct. 24, slicking back their hair and accessorizing with their brightest smiles. The day included fun-filled, on-theme activities, including learning centers, snacks and other creative activities.

First graders celebrate the Nifty 50th day of school in a 50s-themed celebration.

DECEMBER 6 • 8 p.m.

JACKSONVILLE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS fscjartistseries.org | (904) 632-5000 |

Creating a love of learning for students in PreK 3 - 6th Grade Now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 school year. 830 Oak Street

Jacksonville, FL

904.353.3459

DECEMBER 2025

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

Jr. Residents | 49

Bolles Marks National Signing Day with 28 College Commitments

The Bolles School celebrates 28 student-athletes on National Signing Day.

The Bolles School recognized and honored 28 of its student-athletes in a signing ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 12 as they signed letters of intent to pursue their athletic and academic futures on a collegiate level. Bolles Athletic Director Rock Pillsbury opened the ceremony, inviting coaches to introduce their respective athletes. The bleachers in the Davis Gym at the San Jose campus were packed with friends and families, joined by Bolles faculty and coaches, as the following seniors committed to their futures: Baseball: Rylan Baker, University of Central Florida Women’s Basketball: Evie Freeman, Tennessee Tech University (also track and field) Men’s Lacrosse: Greer Boree, Yale University Will Martell, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Jayden Mitchell, Florida Institute of Technology Ty Teschner, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Cam Zielinski, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Women’s Lacrosse: Anna Giordano, University of Oregon Men’s Soccer: Hudson Drum, College of Charleston Men’s Swimming and Diving: Ethan Bathala, Duke University Liam Carrington, North Carolina State University George Dovellos, Harvard University Michael Gumino, U.S. Military Academy Krish Jain, Columbia University Louis Joos, Yale University Nicholas Kwan, University of Georgia Clay Magyar, Florida State University Lucas Young, University of Michigan

Charles Zuhoski, Duke University Women’s Swimming and Diving: Victoria Edgar, Princeton University Ella Gotham, Liberty University Marleigh Howes, McGill University Lucero Mejia Arce, Indiana University Riley Miller, University of Cincinnati Ainsley Stephan, University of Wisconsin Elizabeth Stewart, U.S. Military Academy Women’s Track and Field: Evie Freeman, Tennessee Tech University also basketball Terrell McCoy, University of Illinois Women’s Triathlon: Samantha Perry, University of Denver

Building Bonds Across Generations at Her Heart Gardens

Assumption Catholic School staff with staff from Her Heart Gardens.

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

Visit ESJ.org To Explore Your Future

EPISCOPAL EPISCOPAL SCHOOL of JACKSONVILLE

SCHOOL of JACKSONVILLE

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

50 |

RESIDENT COMMUNITY NEWS

December 4 and 5 CHAMPAGNE AND SHOPPING

C E M B

RESIDENTNEWS.NET

calendar

December 14 ORTEGA VILLAGE HOLIDAY MARKET

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

December 4 -7 49TH ANNUAL FIRST COAST DESIGN SHOW

December 6 30TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS 5K

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

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

December 5-19 DECK THE SQUARE

December 6 HOLIDAY MAGIC

San Marco Square | $1

DECEMBER 2025

neighborhood holiday events

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

December 20 RUN SANTA RUN 5K

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

Klutho Park | $50

December 20 SAN MARCO LUMINARIA

December 5 and 6 SAN MARCO TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY Balis Park | 6 to 6:30 p.m. | Free

San Marco | Dusk | Free

Dec. 5 CHRISTMAS IN AVONDALE

December 21 RIVERSIDE AVONDALE PRESERVATION’S 41ST ANNUAL LUMINARIA

December 7 4TH ANNUAL JACKSONVILLE HOLLY JOLLY COMMUNITY EVENT

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

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

Riverside and Avondale | Dusk | Free

Ch i n a B e f o r e Co m m u n i s m

DEC 27-28 J a c k s o nv i l l e

FEB 10-11 O ra n g e P a r k

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts

Thrasher-Horne Center

“Simply gorgeous stage magic. A must-see!” —Broadway World P r e s e n t e d b y : F l o r i d a Fa l u n D a f a A s s o c i a t i o n

5,000 Years of Civilization Reborn Shen Yun is a brilliant artistic revival and celebration of China’s rich cultural heritage. But after decades of communist rule, much of this divinely inspired culture has been lost. Now, ancient legends and timeless virtues come alive on stage, preserving the essence of a civilization that has endured for millennia. With every performance, Shen Yun conveys the extraordinary depth and breadth of genuine Chinese culture, bringing the magnificence of 5,000 years of civilization vividly back to life.

Classical Chinese Dance

Poetry in motion, where every gesture tells a story

Stunning Costumes

Exquisite designs carry you through dynasties past

A Unique Orchestra

Eastern and Western instruments masterfully woven into captivating original scores

Picturesque Backdrops

Tickets on Sale! Order Your Tickets Now!

Immersive scenes sweep you away to magical realms

Jacksonville

Myths & Legends

Hotline: 904-630-3900 Online: ShenYun.com/FL Price: $90-$200 (plus service fee)

Timeless stories that stir the soul and spark the imagination

The Experience

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

SAT SAT SUN

DEC 27, 2:00 pm DEC 27, 7:30 pm DEC 28, 2:00 pm

Orange Park TUE WED

FEB 10, 7:30 pm FEB 11, 7:30 pm

Hotline: 877-663-7469 or 904-276-6815 Online: ShenYun.com/FL Price: $90-$200 (plus service fee)

SATURDAY NIGHT LIGHTS DECEMBER 27TH AT 7:30 PM BILL GAY GROUNDS AT EVERBANK STADIUM

Home For The Holidays

THE SPACIOUS 3-ROW 2026 CADILLAC VISTIQ

Holiday wishes to you and your family from ours! And may the Spirit of W armChristmas bring you much joy and many blessings during this time of giving and celebration and throughout the New Year! Merry Christmas!

RANDY MARION CADILLAC 4700 SOUTHSIDE BLVD. JACKSONVILLE 904-642-5111 Randy Marion Cadillac of Jacksonville .com

Resident: Riverside December 2025