San Marco: Resident April 2025

Detour Ahead Giving Back While Growing Up

Day

By Michele Leivas

Change of Command

Michelle Wright, Candace Singleton and Renee Farhat compete in the beer stein holding contest at the fourth annual San Marco Beer Fest.

Nicole and Matt Zuino with Robin Busche, Mellecent Jones, Jessie and Dan Preza

Publishers' Note

As we welcome the month of April, we are excited to celebrate National Poetry Month here at Resident News. This edition is filled with amazing articles, including a beautiful contribution from one of our own local talents, Carolyn Snowden. Carolyn has written a poignant and heartfelt poem about the newspaper, which you’ll find below, along with several other poetic pieces scattered throughout this month’s edition. We hope you enjoy reading them as much as we did in curating this special collection. There’s something truly magical about the power of poetry to capture the essence of our caring community, and we’re grateful to share it with you.

The Original Social Media

PUBLISHERS Seth H. Williams seth@residentnews.net

Pamela Bradford Williams pamela@residentnews.net

RESIDENTNEWSJAX CIRCLESCHARITYMAG

1650 Margaret St. #310 | Jacksonville, Florida 32204 904.388.8839 | Fax: 904.423.1183 RESIDENTNEWS.NET

WELL SPENT

TIME

Seven bridges were constructed,

To connect this big place. Spanning the St. Johns River, For every person, creed and race. Engineered and well-built, To stand the test of time. These bridges are trusted with, Each up and downhill climb. But somewhere riding shotgun, In some traveling cars, There is a ResidentNewspaper, To read (once they get where they are.) Like the bridges, it’s connecting, All of the residents living there, And is the pulse of the town, With a trusted, local flare. Be it articles that are written, About the downtown transforming. Or a troop of boy scouts, Doing something heartwarming. The Resident highlights, Reports and gives voice. To near-unnoticed issues, Or victories to rejoice. It’s time very well spent, Reading it from cover to cover. Learning of current events, And new things to discover. Some might recognize an old friend, Pictured beside a bold headline. Or be compelled to take action, For something which they align. This page-turning paper, Made with bridge-like construction, Stands the same test of time, Now decades in production.

C.C. SNOWDEN

TO THE EDITOR Letter

For years I have passionately supported The Salvation Army of Northeast Florida, serving as a volunteer, donor, and advocate. Since 1891, they’ve profoundly impacted our community with multiple services and have provided disaster relief nationwide since 1905. Yet, their humility often leaves many unaware of the breadth and depth of their services. Beyond the familiar holiday bellringing, The Salvation Army in Jacksonville provides vital assistance:

• Shelter & Meals: Providing safe refuge for homeless individuals, including veterans and families, while serving hundreds of meals daily to those in need.

• Food Pantry: Supplying weekly supplemental groceries to up to 250 income-eligible households.

• Financial Assistance: In 2024, The Salvation Army distributed approximately $427,000 in rental and utility aid to struggling households.

• Counseling & Support: Over 2,400 individuals received guidance on financial literacy, job placement and securing affordable housing.

• Holiday Assistance: Delivered Christmas gifts to more than 4,700 children and served 1,500 holiday meals to families in need.

• Youth Programs: Offering summer camp opportunities, homework assistance, and character-building activities for children.

• Intervention Services: Helping to break cycles of violence by providing batterers intervention programs for over 700 individuals. However, a funding shortfall now threatens these essential programs. The Salvation Army must raise $1 million between April 1 and October 31 to sustain their services. The “Hope In Action” initiative calls on all of us to contribute generously.

Here’s how you can help:

• Donate: Mail a check to The Salvation Army Hope in Action campaign at PO Box 52508, Jacksonville, FL 32201, or give online at: https://give.salvationarmyflorida.org/hopeinactionnefl

• Consider a gift of appreciated stock or give from your Donor Advised Fund or RMD.

• Engage: Schedule a tour of the shelter, volunteer, or commit to ringing the bell this holiday season. Your support ensures The Salvation Army continues its invaluable work in our community. Let’s keep Hope in Action and The Salvation Army active in Jacksonville.

With heartfelt gratitude, – Marilyn Carpenter

The final report was voted upon and adopted by the JHPC at its March meeting.

Some have described demolition by neglect as a loophole in the city’s historic preservation policies. It occurs when an abandoned or neglected structure deteriorates to the point that it must be demolished to remove a public health or safety hazard.

“Demolition by Neglect affects not just the neglected structure, but also the surrounding area, and can start a contagious cycle of decay and disinvestment. The practice is especially problematic when it impacts historic landmarks and contributing structures within historic districts, which have been found worthy of preservation for future generations,” read, in part, the report’s introduction.

It added that at least 52 historic demolitions have been approved since the City began tracking them in 2021, though it did not indicate whether or not demolition by neglect was a contributing factor in these cases.

JHPC created the task force last September and over the last five months, the appointed group has worked to establish strategies, tools and initiatives to address this “pressing issue.”

Priority Recommendations

Following the meeting, Task Force Chair William Hoff said the report’s recommendations are a combination of implementing existing ordinances and introducing new approaches.

One of these new approaches is working to establish the Code Enforcement Historic Special Revenue Fund that can be used as a “revolving loan designated to pay for the exterior repair/ renovation of homes or buildings owned by property owners at or below 80% of area median income, located within the locally designated historic districts.”

The report stated that financial penalties – liens and/or fines - often go ignored by the property owner and the municipality eventually reduces them. According to the report, properties within local historic districts have been fined nearly $200 million since 1998, yet just over $430,000 has been recuperated within that same timeframe. That is less than one percent of fines due.

Another recommendation is to create a scoring matrix to identify properties approaching the danger threshold of demolition by neglect and establish a procedure by with the property owner can be engaged.

“We’re going to use that to help determine when a neglected property rises to that level,” Hoff said after the meeting.

He emphasized that the matrix will be an objective scoring process.

“We all probably have in mind some properties, but it can’t be a subjective process, it has to be objective,” Hoff added.

JHPC Chair Michael Montoya said this report is a “great first step” to bring more awareness of demolition by neglect at the city level.

“It’s my hope, not just as the chair but as a resident of the historic community that this really gets a conversation started that has some teeth with the city,” Montoya said. “There are a number of things that are going to require funding. It’s going to require more attention from city employees, whether it’s code enforcement or planning, there’s going to have to be a lot of coordination with it.”

Jacksonville History Center CEO Dr. Alan Bliss echoed Montoya’s sentiment.

“I think that the problem of demolition by neglect is pretty widely recognized, but actually putting any sufficient tools into the hands of code enforcement and the office of the city attorney – the administration board, generally – that’s been sort of the missing ingredient,” Bliss said.

Success Stories and Heartbreaks

Jacksonville has celebrated its share of victories involving successful renovations and adaptive reuses of historic buildings, including what is now the Cowford Chophouse – previously the Bostwick Building – which Bliss called “one of the most spectacular examples” of adaptive reuse here in Jacksonville.

Built in 1902, the building first served as the rebuilt First National Bank of Florida following the Great Fire of 1901 and would go on to house the Guaranty Trust and

at 40 East Adams Street for $2.2 million. Another $250,000 went to resolving unpaid taxes on the building. What followed was a $25 million renovation project to transform the building into what it is today.

Alternately, the city has suffered some heartbreaks where demolition by neglect is concerned and Bliss said “probably the most glaring example” is the Laura Street Trio.

“[The Trio is] a property that has been allowed to fall into a state of serious disrepair and neglect to the point that some people think it’s a hazard to public safety,” Bliss said. “Should it be demolished under the circumstances? Of course, except it’s got historic significance and so it has the potential to be converted and adapted to a productive 21st century use, but that’s going to require significant capital investment…”

Savings Bank and the Brotherhood State Bank for Savings. After years of neglect, the building was purchased by Jacques Klempf in 2014 and transformed into the upscale restaurant that today maintains restored elements of the building’s original grandeur, including exterior bricks, metal cornice and historic arched windows.

The transformed building reopened once again as a restaurant in 2017.

Another success story, Bliss said, is the Haydon Burns Library, which today is the Jessie Ball duPont Center. In 2013, the Jessie Ball duPont Fund purchased the building

Ownership of the Laura Street Trio recently changed hands after a purchase and sale agreement was signed by Live Oak Estates, a subsidiary of Live Oak Contracting, and its previous owner in January. Legislation is still pending regarding a settlement agreement for the roughly $800,000 the city said has accrued against the Trio since 2015 for code violations.

The Moulton and Kyle Funeral Home on Union Street, built in 1914, is another loss to Jacksonville’s history. According to published reports, the abandoned building suffered a catastrophic fire in January 2021 and was demolished shortly after.

“It was a building that had historic significance and the owners took no action to preserve it, to maintain it and eventually it deteriorated to the point that a fire of undetermined origins finally destroyed it,” Bliss said.

“It’s a classic example of demolition by neglect,” he added.

Built in 1902, the building standing at 101 E. Bay Street now houses the Cowford Chophouse.

History in Progress

Jacksonville History Center to share first peek at renovations of new museum building

By Karen Rieley

Crabtree Construction Company has reached a pivotal stage in the first phase of transforming the old Florida Casket Company building into the new Jacksonville History Center as phase one work nears completion with phase two ahead of schedule.

Work on this adaptive reuse of the 104-year-old building began last May with Lane Architecture, P.A. responsible for envisioning the project in alignment with the vision of the JHC board of directors.

Work in Progress

The historic three-story building at 314 Palmetto Street, between the Maxwell House plant and the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Historic Eastside, will house the Jacksonville Historic Center’s archives and serve as a research facility.

“Following a multi-year process of planning, fundraising and preparation, we are all gratified to come to work every day and see the renovations taking place in our 104-year-old building,” said JHC CEO Dr. Alan Bliss. “Establishing the new Jacksonville History Center in an old building

is faithful to our mission in many ways.”

Phase I work includes stairwell additions on the east and west sides of the structure. The addition on the east elevation also includes public restrooms on the first and second floors, a catering kitchen and staff restroom on the third floor. Once completed, Phase II will

JHC is currently engaged in fundraising for the project’s third phase, which will bring thematic curation and development for static and experiential exhibits, improvements to the campus grounds and furnishing for each floor.

In addition to presenting permanent and rotating exhibits on local history,

include a full restoration and refurbishment of each of the building’s three floors as an exhibit space for public use.

the renovated Florida Casket Company building will allow JHC to consolidate its extensive but scattered archives and partner with the area’s premier genealogist society. It also plans to host history-focused programming, including an oral history program, facilitated by an on-site recording studio and classes on preserving family records. JHC will also have opportunities to work with colleges on internship programs in museum and archive management and serve as a reference center for other collections while interacting with local and private schools to teach local history or providing archival services and supplies to individuals and organizations.

JHC credits the City of Jacksonville and the city council for much of the funding for the first phase of the renovation project, along with early support from Preston Haskell, for whom it has renamed its collection (The Haskell Archive of Jacksonville History). Other major supporters to date include The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida and the Delores Barr Weaver Fund.

Old St. Luke’s Hospital

The Florida Casket Company building was constructed in 1924 and sits next to the former St. Luke’s Hospital, which was completed 46 years earlier. Despite their vicinity, however, the two buildings were never operated at the same time.

JHC also plans to renovate Old St. Luke’s Hospital, which opened in 1878 and now is overflowing with material that the historical society has carefully organized and recorded in a database. Once renovated, the hospital will be used to display Jacksonville’s medical history.

“It will likely take a year of fundraising, then another 18-24 months before opening the Florida Casket Company building as a museum,” Hallock said.

Hallock added that there is no timeline yet for the renovation of the hospital building, though JHC is currently working to replace more than 50 windows and establishing a plan to increase parking availability by replacing the current concrete ADA ramp with an “up-to-date

modular ramp.”

Both the Florida Casket Company building and the Old St. Luke’s Hospital were purchased by the Jacksonville Historical Society in 2012 from the Florida Arthritis Foundation.

In his book, “Jacksonville’s Architectural Heritage,” Jacksonville

historian Dr. Wayne Wood wrote that St. Luke’s Hospital played an important role in caring for residents stricken by the yellow fever epidemic in 1888, the typhoid epidemic in 1898 and following the Great Fire of 1901. In 1885 St. Luke’s established the first modern nursing school in Florida. In 1914, the hospital relocated to a larger complex in Springfield where UF Health is located today.

After that relocation, the property was bought by the Florida Casket Company, and in 1920 it built its three-story factory next to the vacant hospital. The coffins were built on the first floor, then sent up to the second floor to be finished, where elements like linings and hinges were installed by women who were mostly related to the carpenters. The finished product was stored on the third floor.

In subsequent years, the hospital served as a warehouse, before standing vacant for several years. In 1975 a nonprofit group, Old St. Luke’s Restoration, Inc., was able to purchase the property and preserve the central structure. Originally restored in 1976, Old St. Luke’s Hospital served as offices for Congress members Charles Bennett and Corrine Brown.

Though it will still be some time before the renovation of the Florida Casket Company building is complete, Hallock said there are still ways for people to get involved.

“We invite the community to share stories about their Jacksonville history so that we can build a catalog of items from which to draw inspiration and collections to exhibit,” Hallock said. “We have a form people can fill out, https://tinyurl.com/ ManyStories, and we conduct oral history sessions,” she said. “Once we get close to opening the museum, we’ll have plenty of opportunities for history lovers to get involved as volunteers.”

Those interested in seeing the work completed thus far can do so at JHC’s third annual History Fair on Saturday, June 14 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The first and second floors will be open to the public and will feature displays and presentations by local history-focused organizations.

A view of the Florida Casket Company building from St. Luke’s Hospital

In preparation for one of its uses as an event venue, the Jacksonville History Center now features a new catering kitchen. New windows, updated lighting and refinished floors are bringing the century-old building back to life.

Lasalle Pump Station Construction to Close Major Intersection

By Michele Leivas

San Marco residents and business owners are bracing themselves for a challenging few weeks as they prepare for more detours and partial and total road closures for ongoing construction for the Lasalle Street pump station.

District 5 City Councilmember Joe Carlucci hosted a town hall meeting at the Balis Community Center on Thursday, March 27 to give Haskell representatives an opportunity to inform attendees about the closures, field questions and address concerns.

As construction for the pump station shifts into its second phase, Haskell will need to install a 72-by-48-inch pipe beneath the intersection at San Marco Boulevard and Lasalle Street, which will require the closure of that intersection. Ahead of that, residents can expect a partial road closure to begin in April and last three to four weeks with the total intersection closure occurring immediately after that in May for approximately six to eight weeks.

“We’re going to be working two crews for double shifts, six days a week to try to push this through as quickly as possible, to return this back to the level of service that you guys expect,” said Joe Kantor, Haskell project development director, during his presentation. “Once this closure is complete, we’ll have that major trunk link across the street to the pump station and you’ll start to realize those benefits of increased drainage.”

Kantor and his team members noted that road closure signs will be temporarily installed well ahead of the construction zone to discourage through-traffic from coming down that corridor and police officers will be on-site to direct drivers during peak traffic times.

Detours

Ahead

A high-level map detailing the intersection closure also shows various one- and twoway detours for residents, businesses and through-traffic. Directing traffic away from the intersection, the main detour will be a two-way route from San Marco Boulevard at Riviera Street to Hendricks Avenue by way of Landon Avenue, then coming out onto Nira Street.

The local detour for businesses and residents in the immediate area surrounding the intersection will be a one-way route along Lasalle Street, Cedar Street, Larue Avenue, Riviera Street and River Road.

Kantor noted that access to businesses will be maintained, and signage installed to inform drivers that area businesses are open during construction.

Following Kantor’s presentation, several people shared significant feedback with Carlucci and the Haskell team, including fears about the planned detours down residential streets, questions about how the closures could impact access to their homes or businesses and frustrations about damage some said has been caused by the construction.

Katie McNeal lives on Landon Avenue, and is very concerned about the detour down her road.

“People are driving very dangerously,” McNeal told Carlucci and the Haskell team. “…Our street is a residential street, but it’s 30 miles per hour. I need this speed limit to be decreased, at least for the duration of this project, to either 25 or 20 miles per hour, I need temporary speed bumps and police presence, otherwise someone is going to get seriously hurt with this detour with the amount of traffic that can be sent down Landon Avenue.”

Carlucci said he was in total agreement with the installation of speed bumps, either temporary or permanent, for the residents on Landon Avenue, who, according to McNeal, had already begun the process of requesting permanent speed bumps for their street.

“We will 100% pull that out of the gauntlet that it’s in [and] we will pay for permanent speed bumps, my office will pay for permanent speed bumps on your streets,” Carlucci said. “Depending on where it’s at in the process, it doesn’t actually take that long, to be honest, so I would love it if those could get put in in a week.”

Though many are concerned about the impact this temporary closure will have on their businesses and lives, meeting attendees acknowledged this is a critical project for San Marco and residents are anxious to see the pump station come online.

Following the meeting, Carlucci said he was encouraged by the input gathered from the community.

“I heard a lot of great feedback tonight,” Carlucci. “I like that because then, we’re at the beginning stage of it, so to speak, so we can still make those changes to address their feedback before their issues actually become reality.”

To view a map rendering of the road closures and detours or learn more about the project, visit www.residentnews.net

Southside Methodist Church Celebrates 75 Years of Faith, Community, and Missions

Southside Methodist Church Celebrates 75 Years of Faith, Community, and Missions

In the heart of Jacksonville’s Southside, nestled beneath a canopy of ancient oaks and pine trees, sits a church whose story is stitched into the very fabric of the community. This year, Southside Methodist Church is celebrating a milestone—75 years of unwavering faith, community, and mission service.

Founded in 1950, Southside Methodist Church has grown from a small neighborhood congregation into a vibrant spiritual home for generations of families. “I am so very proud of our church.” said Mary Virginia Jones, wife of Charter Member Mac Jones, who joined SMC as a young bride in 1953. “From humble beginnings, Southside Methodist Church has become a very vibrant and exciting church that provides programs and studies for everyone and all ages. After 75 years, we continue to extensively support our community. The joy and love I experience each Sunday truly warms my heart.”

The 75th anniversary marked by both reflection on the past and vision for the future, will feature a year-long celebration that strives to bring together generations of faithful members and welcome newcomers and visitors alike.

A Church Built by Faith

On June 8, 1949, the Quarterly Conference of Hendricks Memorial Methodist Church authorized the formation of a new nonprofit: Southside Methodist Church, Inc. The first service was held on Easter Sunday, April 9, 1950, with 550 devoted charter members in attendance. By September 1950, a program to build a Sanctuary began. A groundbreaking ceremony for the $275,000 church building (equivalent to $3,677,601 today) soon followed. The Sanctuary held its first service on Palm Sunday, April 3, 1955, and stands today as a testament to the devotion of its founding members and generations since.

The People Behind the Pews

Southside has always been shaped by its people—faithful leaders, everyday families, and individuals who are devoted members and attendees. Legacy families like the Langley and Piotocchis have been part of Southside’s foundation for generations.

“For 75 years, Southside has been more than walls and a roof—it’s been a refuge, a guiding light, and a family,” said Bill Langley, a third-generation member. “I was baptized here, participated in the youth program, and was married here. My children and granddaughter were baptized in this church. Southside is my extended family— not just where we gather, but where we grow, heal, and serve.”

Today, that spirit continues through not only longtime members, but many new individuals and families who proudly lead outreach efforts, volunteer, and help continue to build Southside’s authentic community. From children and youth ministries to bible studies and local and global missions, Southside members live out their faith in powerful ways.

A Place to Belong Since 1950

One defining trait of Southside Methodist is its warm, come-as-you-are spirit. Whether you’re new to Jacksonville or new to church altogether, there’s a place for you.

“We live in the neighborhood and started attending Southside because our daughter is part of their youth programs,” said Seth Rothstein, “I was surprised the first time we attended at how touching Pastor Phillip’s sermon was, and was glad to see friends from the neighborhood. It has brought our family peace, hope, and joy. We feel blessed to have been made to feel so welcome and pray others might find their way to Southside as well.”

Longtime member Patti Price echoed the sentiment. “We were early in our marriage when we found Southside. It reminded us of the churches we grew up in. We’ve raised our family here and grown in our faith alongside dear friends. We treasure the memories we’ve made over the years.”

Faith in Action—Local and Global Impact

While Sunday worship is the heartbeat of Southside, its impact stretches far beyond the Sanctuary walls. The church supports nine mission partners. In 2024, alone SMC helped:

Contribute food to UCOM, providing 1,216 pounds of food and over 3,600 meals to those in need.

• Our annual missions trip to Guatemala, bringing the total number of trips to 35, to help with home-building, medical care, and Gospel outreach.

• Continued support for a sister church in Cuba, including a 2023 mission trip delivering over 200 pounds of medicines.

• Bringing hope to incarcerated individuals through Kairos, Prison Ministry

Closer to home, the church is bustling every week with the Southside Methodist Preschool, Sunday children’s programs, adult Bible studies, Wednesday night dinners, Life Groups, adult choir, children’s music programs, and Happy Brew Coffee Shop.

A Bold Future, Rooted in Faith

As Southside celebrates 75 years, the anniversary theme—Bold Generations for Christ—calls the church to honor its heritage while boldly stepping into the future.

“As we embark on this year of celebration, we are reminded of the incredible ways God has worked through Southside Methodist Church over the past 75 years,” said Phillip Short, Senior Pastor of Southside Methodist Church. “The theme for the 75th celebration is Bold Generations for Christ, which celebrates our rich heritage while embracing our vibrant present and the exciting future God is unfolding for our church community. We invite everyone— whether you have been a part of Southside for generations or are just getting to know us—to join in this special season of faith, fellowship, and service.”

Planned anniversary events include a commemorative unity worship service, a time capsule opening, special Easter celebrations, children’s initiatives, and mission-focused projects. A new memorial brick patio will also be installed, inviting families and community members to join the campaign and leave a lasting mark.

And as the church continues to grow, it holds fast to the words of Pastor Raymond A. Alley, spoken in 1950: “We can say of the church as a physical structure, ‘It is finished,’ but never can we say that of the church as a spiritual entity…There is much more for us to do. The past is but a brief prologue of greater things to come under the leadership of Almighty God.”

From a humble sanctuary built by 550 faithful families to a thriving congregation of today, Southside Methodist Church continues to be a beacon of hope for Jacksonville and beyond.

Want to learn more about Southside Methodist Church or join in the 75th anniversary celebration? Visit smcjax.org or attend services any Sunday at 9:00 am or 11:00 am.

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

$14.5 MILLION

(verdict, 5/4/2022)

Personal Injury: Trucking Crash

kathleen thomas* V geico insurance company

$14.4 MILLION

(verdict, 8/5/2022)

Personal Injury: car accident

*Names changed to protect client privacy

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

$4.5 MILLION

(set tlement, 8/17/2021)

Personal Injury: Workplace Negligence

*Names changed to protect client privacy

Meet Robin Robinson San Marco Preservation Past President, 2000-2001

As the San Marco Preservation Society prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, Resident News is proud to bring you a monthly series spotlighting the past presidents who’ve played a key role in preserving the character and history of our beloved community. Each month, we’ll shine a light on one of these dedicated leaders, sharing their story and their contributions to keeping San Marco’s charm alive. Check out this month’s feature and stay tuned for more.

Robin Robinson’s love of San Marco first started when she followed the love of her life, Jay Robinson. She moved to San Marco 40 years ago, in 1985, when she married Jay, who already lived there. That was just 10 years after the San Marco Preservation Society had been formed as a nonprofit corporation.

By 1998, Robinson was an active member of the society and served on the SMPS board in many roles, including membership chairman, newsletter chairman, Home Tour co-chairman and historian. She was president from 2000 to 2001.

“I live in San Marco because I like the feel of a village with a town square, although my friend, Wayne Wood, points

out that it is a triangle, not a square,” Robinson said.

Having raised six children, she is thoroughly invested in the SMPS mission to protect the integrity of the San Marco

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residential neighborhood. The Robinsons live in a home built in 1939.

“We have a large family including six grown children and ten grandchildren. Family gatherings are fun and usually noisy,” she said.

Robinson remembers the receipt of $1 million from the Balis Estate to be used for parks in San Marco as the most significant event during her year as president.

“A plan was negotiated to build the Balis Community Center in conjunction with a major overhaul the City was undertaking to enlarge and enhance the San Marco Library,” Robinson said. “We went over the plans, making suggestions for the design and items to be included.

The finished product was a lovely building in which the library and the community center were attached and under one roof.”

Robinson considers her most important contribution to SMPS to be the book she wrote, “Southbank Sojourn,” about the history of South Jacksonville and San Marco.

“During my term as president I found that SMPS had historic photographs which I felt needed to be published and shared with the general public,” she said. “Later, when we took on the task of the renovation of the South Jax City Hall, I interviewed a number of families in the area who were descendants of South Jacksonville city officials. I met with them while they opened their photo albums to me providing

more historic photos.”

Proceeds from sales of the book have helped the organization continue its mission.

Robinson shares that her favorite SMPS project is the creation of Balis Park which has been enlarged twice over the years, first under the leadership of Skip Allcorn, then under the leadership of Doug Skiles.

“It provides a central park around which the businesses and residents revolve. It lends a friendly atmosphere where business owners and residents get to know each other,” she said. “What I love most about San Marco is that it is populated by people who really care about the neighborhood and work continuously to make it better.”

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Robin Robinson and her granddaughter assemble SMPS luminary kits to sell to San Marco neighbors.

Linzee Ott, Michelle Lang and Robin Robinson and Desiree Bailey at a recent SMPS Board meeting in Preservation Hall.

A Par-fect Day for L’Arche Jacksonville

L’Arche Jacksonville raised nearly $100,000 at its 35th annual Golf Classic at Queen’s Harbour Yacht and Country Club on Monday, March 3.

L’Arche residents teed up for a very competitive putting contest with the Sally Horner Family Team – Reed Hawkins, Brent Lastraps, Nick Agresta and Charlie Bernard – winning Best Gross Score, shooting a 60.

North Florida Land Trust Welcomes New Board

and

“We welcome Janyce, Tom, and Natalie to the board and look forward to working together to buy land for conservation because it is now or never,” said Allison DeFoor, NFLT president and CEO. “Having a diverse board with various backgrounds helps guide our team and strengthens our mission. We have much to accomplish and will continue doing everything possible to save our natural landscapes.”

Dawkins, Goodrich, and Healy join the 15-member board, which includes individuals from diverse community fields. In addition to the new board members, Lisa Barton has taken over the board chair position. Barton joined the board in 2021 and has been an NFLT supporter since its inception in 1999. She takes over the role from Matt Rapp, who is now chair emeritus.

The Clayton King/Modern Woodman Team emerged as the First Place Net Team with a score of 51; the Chuck Parliment Team trailing in a close second with 52. Additional winners included Chip Clemons (Men’s Longest Drive); Ann Nash (Women’s Longest Drive); and Chris Henderson (Closest to the Pin).

A Milestone Moment for Riverside Presbyterian Day School

Riverside Presbyterian Church and Day School recently celebrated the grand opening of several new and improved campus facilities at a ribbon cutting ceremony March 4.

The Mary Lou Davis Family Life Center, the redesigned Rice Sports Zone and the new Harden Gate and Courtyard were unveiled during the ceremony and are intended to “foster growth, connection, and engagement for students, families, and congregants alike.” These projects were funded through the Riverside Cornerstone Campaign, led by co-chairs Jed Davis and Karla Newton. The campaign was first launched in 2022.

Heart Attack Risk?

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Your health screening also includes:

Lp(a)

Genetically determined type of cholesterol that puts you at greater risk for heart disease.

A1c

Indicates high blood sugar that can contribute to heart disease, kidney failure, and other conditions

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Measures kidney function and waste filtration

Lipid Panel

Protein linked to heart disease when elevated A

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North Florida Land Trust’s board of directors has three new members: Janyce Dawkins, Tom Goodrich,

Natalie Healy

Riverside Cornerstone Campaign Co-Chairs Jed Davis and Karla Newton cut the ribbon during the March 4 ceremony celebrating the new and improved facilities at RPDS.

Janyce Dawkins Natalie Healy Tom Goodrich

The Sally Horner Family Team: Charlie, Brent, Reed, and Nick

Local Author’s Book Aims to Battle Boredom

With summer approaching, local author C.C. Snowden has released a book she hopes will help deter those two words every parent dreads hearing during summer vacation: “I’m bored.”

“The Kid’s Survival Guide to Not Being Bored” is Snowden’s latest book and emerged from a challenge she issued to herself to compile as many activities as she could think of to battle boredom.

“[It was] a fun assignment for myself to do a collection, but make it a survival guide, like a reference kind of book that you keep coming back to to take the boredom out of the day,” Snowden said.

The book begins by issuing a dare to the reader to put down the screens, get off the couch and get outside. “Taking it back to the classic, you know, get outside and get dirty kind of thing,” Snowden said. In that vein, all the activities included in this book are either outdoors or otherwise do not require or implement technology.

Snowden said the book is reminiscent of the crafty, “rainy day” activity books she and her sister had when they were children.

“I just remember that book from my childhood and thought [this book] could be a sort of a tip of the hat to that memory,” Snowden added.

This is the seventh children’s book Snowden has published and is available for purchase at Commander Consignment, owned by her sister, Barbara Commander, and located at 4304 Herschel Street.

Dooley Raising Awareness, Funding for The Florida Ballet

The nonprofit Florida Ballet has added a new fundraising member to its team of administrators, one that knows how to grow its legacy. Anna Dooley will help raise funds, empower youth with her positive nature and bring much-needed prowess to the contacts and network she has tirelessly fostered throughout her career.

“The atmosphere here is what I appreciate the most - the young talent, the music and a general feeling of happiness – that’s what I take away from this experience already,” shared Dooley about her new position.

Among the halls of classrooms and teaching studios, young trainees mix with professional company dancers, choreographers and artistic directors, gaining invaluable insight as they grow their passion for dance. The 30,000-square-foot facility brims with activity on Atlantic Blvd in the Arlington neighborhood.

Dooley started her career with the Charter Companies, a recognizable Jacksonville corporation headquartered in town, eventually leading her to create her own business. After stepping away from the business world, she found her passion, marrying her love of the outdoors and tree canopies, by taking the helm of Greenscape of Jacksonville, which she led for 25 years.

For 43 years, considerate donors and arts funding have fostered some of the finest dance performances as well as educational and community outreach programs that the ballet has offered throughout the community. To learn more about The Florida Ballet, visit floridaballet.org, call 904-353-7518, or email info@floridaballet.org

C.C. Snowden, shown here with her dog Rusty, is a poet and author of children’s books.

Anna Dooley

Leaderboard Welcomes Byron Donalds to Jacksonville

Pundits, donors and those highly connected to the political sphere of influence across the country are talking about Byron Donalds and his ascendence in Florida politics. Donalds, a Republican who represents the 19th Congressional District in Naples, Florida, came to Florida as a Democrat from Brooklyn, NY, with nothing but a suitcase in his car at the age of 17.

He showed up at the River Club downtown on March 21, poised and ready to share his story with The Leaderboard Roundtable, a group of CEOs that support the American Dream.

Donalds credits the economics and opportunities afforded to him in Florida for changing his life, determining his ascent and influencing his stance as a budget hawk. He would be remiss if he didn’t mention his support from

President Donald Trump, who has endorsed him as the next man to take the Governor’s Mansion in Tallahassee.

“I’m a very smart person, but I don’t know it all, so I’m open to all lines of communication, working together for the best policies [for Florida],” shared Donalds, as he spoke on issues facing Floridians, from taxes to conservation and all things in between.

Donors are already raising funds to send him into the race with a war chest, as he promises to make good on his work while helping to curtail NGOs (non-governmental organizations) and other interests from receiving state and federal dollars that don’t have the national interest in mind.

He also made clear that he’s a school choice advocate, and reiterated Trump fiscal policies – no tax on tips, no tax on overtime and no tax on social security – some of

Congressman Byron Donalds

which will take time to implement.

“My goal is not to be bombastic, but to bring conservative principles to the entire nation,” said Donalds, as he walked through policy initiatives and took questions from guests at the luncheon, which was sponsored by member, Fitzhugh Powell, Jr. of Cecil W. Powell & Company.

Broner Joins Jacksonville History Center Board

The Jacksonville History Center announced the appointment of Nancy S. Broner to its board of directors. Broner joins 10 other directors and will be eligible to serve three consecutive 3-year terms.

A long-time resident of Duval County, Broner has worked to improve the Jacksonville community in many roles. She is a former member and past chair of the Duval County Public School Board and the executive director of OneJax, where she significantly strengthened the organization’s resources and performance. She has also served as an independent consultant providing policy and governance training to clients such as the United Way of Northeast

Florida, Duval County Public Schools, School District of Philadelphia, Fulton County Public Schools, and many others. She is experienced in conflict resolution, organizational governance, communications, public engagement, and strategic planning.

“Ms. Broner’s gifts, expertise and deep experience are invaluable additions to this Board and to its important Governance and Planning Committee,” said Dr. Alan J. Bliss, CEO, Jacksonville History Center. “We are doing ambitious things, and we are fortunate that Ms. Broner has agreed to join us in our work.”

Top Producers Recognized

More than 100 realtors were recently recognized as top producers for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty at its invite-only special event. The evening was held at Bowing Oaks. Honorees came from the 11 Northeast Florida branch offices.

“Our talented, passionate and dedicated Realtors have made our company the market leader in Northeast Florida,” said Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty President Ann King. “I am so grateful for their commitment and I appreciate their contributions to our company’s success.”

3855 St. Johns Avenue

Realtors from the Avondale/Ortega and San Marco/San Jose metro offices are among top producers for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty.

Nancy Broner

Singing Mr. T’s Praises

By Karen Rieley

Long before the Don Thompson Chorale (DTC) formed in 1995, Don Thompson had been inspiring college singers at Florida Junior College Chorale - now Florida State College at Jacksonville - since 1969. Today, the all-volunteer DTC is celebrating 30 years of sharing musical gifts with the community in memory of its first director and namesake, whom they lovingly call ‘Mr. T’.

When Thompson neared retirement from FJC in the mid-‘80s, his wife wanted to gift him with a reunion of chorale members.

A decade later, some of the participants from that first reunion celebrated by gathering as many of the original chorale members as possible to perform a concert of favorite songs from college days with Thompson directing. About 60 alumni performed at the FCCJ Kent Campus theater.

“It was so well received and so much fun that we approached Mr. T about starting an ongoing group of singers he already knew,” said Saundra Howard, the chorale’s administrative assistant and co-owner of The FotoTechnika Group in the Lakeshore neighborhood. “He finally agreed to direct if members would sign in blood that they would participate.”

Thompson also stipulated that Howard and her husband, John, had to be the managers of the group “for life” and that

the group had to be named after him.

“Later he would tell audiences that the group had started itself and named it after him, so he thought he should probably direct it,” Howard said.

The original arrangement worked well for almost eight years, with Thompson and the group performing in more than 70 concerts in Jacksonville and surrounding area in venues from the Florida Theatre and FSCJ’s Wilson Center and the Kent Campus theaters, Jacksonville History Center’s St. Andrews Church, the Cathedral-Basilica in St. Augustine as well as churches and other venues across the area.

“Two of our more memorable concerts were reunion concerts – one in 1994 before the formation of the DTC and another one in 2012 at Jacoby Hall with The DTC performing half of the concert and alumni from the FJC Choral years joining the DTC for the second half,” Howard recalled. “We had hoped Mr. T would reprise his role as director for that second concert, but as rehearsals progressed, we realized he would only be able to direct the college group’s, and now the DTC’s, standard closing number, ‘Hymn and Prayer for Peace’.”

The chorale’s holiday concerts have become an annual tradition, beginning in 1999 with the First Coast Wind Ensemble,

now the First Coast Wind Symphony. The chorale will perform its 25th holiday concert this December.

Thompson retired from the DTC after the 2003 summer season, was awarded the title director emeritus and fulfilled his dream of moving back to his boyhood home in Georgia. He passed away in March 2017 after suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease for several years.

“Don Thompson had a larger-than-life personality along with the ability to bring out different sounds from the same group of singers. He talked about musical colors and how to shape the sound,” said Linda Edwards, who has served as president of the chorale for more than 10 years.

After Thompson’s retirement, the chorale has alternated between working with a single director and having various singing members of the chorale serving as director concurrently within the same season.

“Currently we are holding off on the addition of an artistic director,” Edwards said. “We have talented individuals internally that can help in the interim and keep us focused on creating beautiful music and sharing with all. Our hope is to find an individual that will mesh well with a boardled group and serve as an artistic director.”

The DTC has fall/winter and spring/ summer seasons and holds auditions the first two to three weeks after the initial start date of each season. The chorale rehearses every Monday evening, 7-9 p.m., at Riverside Presbyterian Church. Auditions are held on Monday evenings as well.

The 2025 season finale concert will be May 4 at the Riverside Presbyterian Church (849 Park Street). Visit www. donthompsonchorale.com to learn more about upcoming concerts or schedule an audition time. Edwards added that the chorale is “always looking for younger adults to join us to keep the group alive and moving forward.”

DTC Past Directors:

Don Thompson (1995-2003)

Michael Dell (2003-2009)

Various DTC singers (2009-2014)

Jay Stuckey (2014-2016)

Hugh Patterson (2016-2020) Jay Stuckey,interim (2021-2022)

Adam Hooper (2022-2024)

NOTE: The COVID pandemic prevented DTC from performing 2020-2021.

Don Thompson and a group of about 60 alumni singers in a 1994 reunion concert performed to a full house at the FCCJ Kent Campus theater.

The Don Thompson Chorale performs the world premier of Josephine Octave, in collaboration with local composer Will Strassberger, at the Cathedral Basilica in St. Augustine on August 4, 2023.

A Toast to San Marco Beer Fest

Residents, friends and neighbors raised mini steins to toast the success of the 4th annual San Marco Beer Fest, held in Balis Park on Saturday, March 8.

Guests enjoyed tastings from more than 25 local breweries as well as samplings of nonbeer and alcohol-free offerings as well. From classic rock tunes performed by String Theory to lawn games to a little friendly competition during the beer stein holding contest and wiener dog races, live entertainment abounded at this community favorite event, which was hosted by the San Marco Merchants Association and Aardwolf Brewing

This year’s beer fest also saw the introduction of Downward Drafts: Beer Yoga, a 30-minute entry level yoga class held in the park.

Jon and Candace Singleton with Jamie and Andy Nachnan

Savanna and Ciera Fowler

Jeremy Faulk and Sara Amaral

Kim Udell with Presley and Jacob Keram Conant with Paul Stortz and Sara Bass

with Hayley Mallary and Jillian Kirn

Audrey and Chris Henderson with June and Macy

Jymia and Quincy Griffith

Smith with Clarence Jorif, Jr. and Daniel Roma

5

4

$15M Anonymous Donation Boosts Jacksonville Symphony’s Mission

The Jacksonville Symphony has received a $15 million gift – the largest single donation in its 75-year history – from a donor who wishes to remain anonymous.

The gift was announced last month. With it comes a matching challenge, presenting an opportunity for the community to double the impact of their donations. It is dedicated to the symphony’s endowment, which continues supporting “artistic excellence, symphony musicians, the commissioning of new works and artistic partnerships.”

“We are truly in and of our community, and this generous gift stands as a testament to the love and support that drives us forward, affirming that our work and presence matter deeply,” said Jacksonville Symphony President and CEO Steven Libman. “A robust endowment empowers us to attract and retain the very best talent. The 100 dedicated full-time staff, including 60 gifted musicians, all live and work here, making our Symphony an essential part of the city. The Symphony is also the primary driver of economic activity downtown.”

Access to Preventative Care Closer for Underinsured, Uninsured

Failures of the current health care system have created opportunities for companies looking to alter the course of medicine, from that of treatment, to that of early detection and preventative care.

Care Access, an up-and-coming healthcare and clinical research-driven company, is helping people determine many aspects of their health – through free screenings for heart, kidney, liver and brain health – while delivering subsequent opportunities for treatments in clinical trials.

The company was in Jacksonville for a three-day visit to the Kingdom Plaza at the Normandy Mall just off Cassat Avenue, March 17, 18 and 19, offering screenings and early detection services by having blood drawn for willing participants. The goal: to detect signs of health risks, many of which are not part of a standard blood panel requested during a primary physician visit. The future can look a lot different for those who may have a condition like prediabetes or diabetes, hypertension, heart disease or even dementia and Alzheimer’s diseases go undetected.

For Joseph Small, community

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

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engagement senior manager, the model for Care Access is making changes in the way people access critical resources that they may otherwise never learn of or participate in.

“Historically clinical research is in the domain of research hospitals,” Small said. “Research hospitals are, historically, not in proximity to segments of our community that could benefit the most…and are the least accessible, for lots of different reasons. So, when you have companies like Care Access that can fill the gap, that is, to create a bridge between research, next generations medicines and the underserved communities that clearly need it – could benefit – but don’t know how to avail themselves to being in that place.”

Care Access is building out a worldwide network of research partnerships and continues to offer services to people seeking better answers for their healthcare needs.

The next free clinic will be held April 10-12 from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the New Grand Lodge of Florida (9137 Merrill Rd., Jacksonville, 32277). Sign up to schedule your free screening at MyFreeHeartTest.com or visit www.careaccess.com to learn more.

| MAY 31, 2025 | 5:30

Enjoy an unforgettable evening of cocktails, cuisine, and live music at Catholic Charities’ signature fundraising event that raises critical funds for our neighbors in need.

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Lou Walsh, IV, CFA President

Ryan Ali, a member of the Care Access team, speaks to Debra Collins, who was inquiring about her appointment and how she could return for services during the Open House, March 17.

The Jacksonville Symphony is the recipient of a $15 million gift from an anonymous donor.

Uncovering the Latest Real Estate Trends According to Local Experts Part Two

By Lauren Weedon Hopkins

“A homebuyer’s love for historic neighborhoods has never been stronger,” said Lee B. Norville, president of Norville Realty in Ortega.

According to the Northeast Florida Association of REALTORs (NEFAR), there’s a continuing rise in local inventory and homes are selling a little faster, with a median of only 36 days on the market in Duval County. Looking to buy or to sell a home this spring? We talked to local experts about emerging trends in San Jose, San Marco, St. Nicholas, Avondale, Riverside, Murray Hill and Ortega.

Outdoor Spaces Are Key

For many homebuyers, what’s on the outside can be even more important than what’s on the inside. “I believe upgraded outdoor spaces are far more popular than interior upgrades,” said Norville. “People in Jacksonville love and use their outdoor amenities, from pools and summer kitchens to fire pits and outdoor fireplaces.”

Heather Buckman, broker and owner of Cowford Realty & Design, agreed that upgraded outdoor spaces take priority.

“We live a Florida lifestyle and that means pools, tropical gardens, edible gardens and (preferable covered) patios and lanais,” she said. “The cost of installing a nice pool these days is easily six figures, so homes that are being sold with a pool in good condition are a hot commodity!”

Miller & Company Real Estate President and Managing Editor Ted Miller also believes homebuyers’ desire for quality outdoor living spaces is undeniably high.

“Pools, patios, gardens, summer kitchens, and casitas are now essential for many clients, especially those relocating from other states,” he said. “These outdoor upgrades not only enhance property value but also provide private relaxation and entertainment spaces, perfect for enjoying the beautiful North Florida weather.”

Neil Bridgers is the vice president and managing broker of Watson Realty Corp.’s San Marco office and remarked that outdoor living has always been a major selling point for buyers moving here from out of state.

“Florida’s tax benefits and amazing weather are big draws,” he said. “I’m actually working with buyers from Texas right now who can’t wait to escape both the extreme dry heat and freezing cold. For them, a great outdoor space isn’t just nice to have, it’s a must. Pools, screened lanais, and upgraded patios are high on their list because they want to enjoy being outside year-round.”

What’s On the Inside Still Counts

Bridgers added that interior upgrades still matter. “Kitchens and bathrooms will always be a priority,” he said. “But the homes that really stand out - and sell the fastestare the ones that offer the best of both: updated interiors and a great space to enjoy Florida’s outdoor lifestyle.”

For Jessica Chefan Hansen, broker associate with the Chefan Group at ONE Sotheby’s International Realty, a balance between indoor and outdoor features is key. “While interior upgrades like modern kitchens or updated bathrooms are important for comfort and functionality, buyers in Florida often see outdoor spaces as an extension of the home, providing additional living and entertainment areas.”

Ed Akers, REALTOR and Historic Property Specialist with Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty, notes that upgraded outdoor spaces are a major driver in homebuying

decisions as buyers place a premium on features like pools, patios, summer kitchens, and gardens.

“That said, interior upgrades remain crucial - especially open-concept living areas, modern kitchens, and home offices that accommodate today’s evolving lifestyle needs,” he stated. “I always say the more move-in ready, the higher perceived valuation there is. Ultimately, buyers are seeking a harmonious blend of indoor comfort and outdoor functionality, making homes with well-executed enhancements in both areas the most desirable in today’s market.”

Janie Boyd, GRI, LMC, REALTOR, Broker with Janie Boyd & Associates Real Estate Services indicated that interior upgrades have been more important for her clients. “Since most of the homes in our area are old, buyers prioritize interior upgrades,” she said. “They want to install wood floors and remove popcorn ceilings.”

These upgrades enable homebuyers to reside in their homes for many years. “Often we have two and three generations of families living in the same neighborhood, so they want to stay here,” said Boyd. “These are places where you know your neighbors. As many people are shifting back to in-office work after the pandemic, it becomes more important to have friends nearby who can pick up kids from school.”

casitas

now essential for many clients, especially those relocating from other states.

– Ted Miller President/Managing Broker Miller & Company

Real Estate

Location, Location, Location

Now that workers have to return to the office, Hansen sees homes outside the historic district gaining popularity.

“In a growing city like Jacksonville, convenience and proximity to key areas such as retail, office spaces, and open areas will attract young professionals who value their time,” she said. “As businesses return to in-person or hybrid work models, homebuyers may prioritize homes that are close to business hubs, transit access, and amenities that support a more work-focused lifestyle.”

Bridgers pointed out that San Marco has easy access to Downtown.

“Buyers aren’t just looking for a short commute; they want a lifestyle. That’s why San Marco is so appealing,” he said. “You’ve got Publix right in the neighborhood, great boutique shopping, coffee shops and entertainment, all within walking distance. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a coffee before work, walk to dinner after, and really enjoy where you live. Buyers today want that balance between convenience and quality of life, and that’s exactly what neighborhoods like San Marco offer.”

No matter where you live, having space for a dedicated home office is vital, both Akers and Miller observed.

Overlooked Factors

What’s an often-overlooked factor that could make or break a sale in today’s market?

“Outdated fixtures and finishes can be a dealbreaker, even if the home itself is in great shape,” said Bridgers. “Buyers today want a space that feels fresh and movein ready, and little details like old light fixtures, brass doorknobs, or outdated cabinet hardware can make a home feel stuck in the past. The good news? These are some of the easiest and most affordable updates a seller can make. Swapping out light fixtures, updating hardware, or even giving cabinets a fresh coat of paint can completely change the feel of a space – and make a big difference in how buyers see the home.”

A more expensive road block can be home insurability.

“Despite the strong property values and the expected vibrant spring market in our historic neighborhoods, the homeowners insurance market remains challenging, particularly for older homes,” said Miller.

Boyd also named the financial impact of homeowners insurance industry. “Often older homes need roofing, plumbing and electrical replacements to pass inspections to qualify for home insurance. This can be unexpectedly very costly,” she said.

Chefan concurred that the home’s condition and the level of updates needed can be a deterrent.

“Buyers today are looking for move-in-ready homes and generally don’t have the patience, time, or financial resources to take on major improvements unless the price reflects the work needed,” she said. “Homes that are not upto-date or have deferred maintenance may struggle to attract serious interest unless they’re priced accordingly to account for the cost of repairs and renovations. Ensuring a home is in good condition – or adjusting the price to reflect necessary updates – can be the key to making a successful sale in today’s competitive market.”

Buckman agreed that with rising inventory, buyers have more choices when they are ready to purchase.

“Buyers are very discerning. They are more likely to pay premium dollar for a home that is in move-in ready condition, and if a home needs work, they are expecting a deep discount.” she said. “Buyers are very sensitive right now to the cost of repairs and the stress that’s often involved in undertaking those repairs. In general, they much prefer a home that is in A+ condition. Because of that, we are really advising our sellers to invest upfront in any deferred maintenance and go the extra mile when prepping their homes for sale.”

Norville advises his sellers to consider having a home inspection before placing their homes on the market.

Akers also recommended a pre-listing home inspection.

“Particularly in historic neighborhoods where homes are generally 50 to 100 years or more old, there is always the unknown,” he said. “Inspection processes often identify issues of deferred maintenance and inspection surprises that can lead to buyer hesitation, price negotiations, or insurability or financing challenges. To mitigate this, it’s recommended to get a pre-listing home inspection completed to address those items before the home goes on the market. Any repairs items may also improve valuation of the home and eliminate future obstacles and result in a smoother future sales transaction.”

Haskell Brings Headquarters to the Southbank

By Michele Leivas

Haskell is eyeing the Southbank as the new home for its headquarters with a May moving date.

Haskell President and CEO Jim O’Leary shared the news via a memo to “Jacksonville -HQ Office Based Team Members [at] 111 and 245 Riverside Ave)” on March 4. According to the memo, Haskell has been considering a change of address for its headquarters since last fall and has identified the Prudential Building (701 San Marco Boulevard). The memo stated the Prudential Building was one of two options, though it did not identify the second option.

With 2025 representing Haskell’s 60-Year Anniversary, it is exciting to embrace a new HQ that will allow ideas to flourish, camaraderie to thrive, and serve as a hub for engagement.

– Jim O’Leary Haskell President and CEO

“Haskell has always prioritized a presence close to downtown and the new office provides a tremendous opportunity to rethink workspace collaboration. Considering the magnitude of design work

around the adaptive reuse of an existing facility, Haskell is partnering with Gensler a nationally recognized design leader in transformative workplace planning,” O’Leary said in the memo.

According to the memo, Haskell has already outgrown its headquarters at 111 Riverside Avenue with additional office space previously secured at 245 Riverside Avenue to accommodate the overflow. These two separate offices were “not ideal,” O’Leary said, thus precipitating the

Haskell’s lease at 111 Riverside will not be extended or renewed, O’Leary wrote, and the offices will be vacated by the end of May. Team members will be accommodated in temporary spaces at the Prudential Building until the final move into the new headquarters space, anticipated for early 2026.

In closing, O’Leary remarked on the timing on this pivotal move in a landmark year for the company.

“With 2025 representing Haskell’s 60Year Anniversary, it is exciting to embrace a new HQ that will allow ideas to flourish, camaraderie to thrive, and serve as a hub for engagement,” he wrote.

Haskell is a Jacksonville-grown company. It was founded in 1965 and has been headquartered at the Brooklyn location since 1986. Dave Auchter, Haskell vice president of corporate marketing said the company is “not aware of the building owner’s plans post-occupancy.”

his year’s event features twelve properties, nine distinct architectural styles, transformational renovations, new businesses, and a continued partnership with local artists to blend art and architecture for ticket purchasers. Join us for the 51st annual Home Tour to take in eight properties that have never been on the Home Tour before.

decision to move to the Southbank.

A rendering included in the March 4 memo shows potential signage options for Haskell’s new headquarters on the Southbank.

The Friendships that Endure

Alumni of Robert E. Lee High School’s Class of 1954 gathered one more time for their 70th and final high school reunion at Timuquana Country Club on Friday, March 14. Originally scheduled for last September, the reunion had been postponed and rescheduled because of Hurricane Helene. There will still be luncheons and other gatherings in the future, said Alumni Committee Chairman Wilson Smith, but this would be the last official reunion. The years since have brought about many changes, including the school’s name, which is now Riverside High School and time has seen the 1954 graduating class dwindle from 372 down to a much smaller group. But the room was filled with no less love and fondness as guests shared stories and swapped memories from those storied, special days.

Members of the Robert E. Lee’ Class of 1954 pose for another class photo at their 70th reunion at Timuquana Country Club on March 14.

Ian Macdonald, Jane Brown and Bobbie Macdonald with Elda and Malcolm Montgomery

Frances Gallogly and Marlene Goodwin Diane Schwalbe and Joanne Smith

Walter Seiler and Charlie Arnold

Marlene Goodwin is gifted with a framed article from Resident News about the 70th high school reunion.

Hilda Strom, Shirley Taylor and Cynthia Segraves

Nelson and Georgette McArthur

Joanne and Wilson Smith with BJ Langley

Bob Delaney presents Alumni Committee Chairman Wilson Smith with a plaque of appreciated “for his unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership and fostering camaraderie among the Robert E. Lee High School Class of 1954.”

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Epping Welcomes New Flag Officers, Commodore to the Helm

At the recent Change of Command ceremony on the historic, waterfront grounds of Epping Forest Yacht and Country Club, the private club celebrated its legacy of retiring one flag and hoisting yet another to lead the Club. Nathan Adams was installed as Commodore, as Ryan Rafferty, Immediate Past-Commodore wished him luck, while sharing sentiments about his tenure and time at the helm. “My one takeaway from this year is this: I’ve learned that so many people love Epping, like truly love it, I always knew I did. But this year, I had so many opportunities and conversations that prove there are so many of you out there that care about this special place…and that’s why it’s special.”

Nathan Adams will now serve as the Club’s 29th Commodore, he took to the podium to thank his predecessor, the staff and his network of friendships. “This Club is more than a beautiful place, it’s a community built on friendship, tradition and experience both on and off the water,” Adams continued, “first and foremost, I want to extend my gratitude to you, Mr. Peyton, our Founder. Your dedication and passion for the Club over the years has transformed Epping into what we all treasure today.” The Change of Command was held, March 28, at the Club in the gardens overlooking the marina on the banks of the St. Johns River.

For a gallery of the social gathering around the Change of Command, visit residentnews.net for more online.

YOUR HANDS HOLD THE POWER OF HOPE

$1 MILLION CAMPAIGN – HELP THE SALVATION ARMY

Every dollar counts. Every act of kindness matters. Without your support, we will lose the ability to provide life-saving services to those who need us most. Help us raise $1,000,000 in the next six months to keep our

75 Years of the Human

The Jacksonville Symphony brought the glitz and glam of Paris Diamond Anniversary Symphony Gala, celebrating the symphony’s spirit through symphonic music.”

Held on Saturday, March 1, the themed event was co-chaired the “Diamond Medley” from the 2001 musical “Moulin Rouge.” auctions and dinner. Guests enjoyed live performances in the Moran the dance floor for the after-party.

Poppy

Clements with John and Eleanor Lock

Carol Killworth, President & CEO Steven B. Libman, Music Director Courtney Lewis and Ann Hicks

Beverley Brooke with Sally Singletary and Avery Williams

Jim Callahan with Keith Keller

Joe and Suzanne Sheffield

Tom Harris with Michael Gordon

Kristen Inman with Shannon Langley and her son Rhodes

Enriching Human Spirit

Paris to the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts for its symphony’s 75th season of fulfilling its mission “to enrich the human co-chaired by Poppy and Rob Clements and pulled inspiration from Rouge.” The evening included a cocktail reception, live and silent Moran Theater and the Jacoby Symphony Hall before hitting

Golf, Giving and Good Times on the Riverfront

The Yard Course and Back 9 charity golf outing returned to Montgomery Place and Richmond Street, respectively, for The Law Firm of Pajcic and Pajcic’s “purposeful yard golf and lawn party” on Saturday, March 29. Golfers gathered for a little friendly competition for a good cause, but this year had an exceptional twist. Three hole-in-one winners took home $9,000 each for nailing the shot on #9. In the celebrity shoot-out, former LPGA great Laura Philo Diaz took the prize among the golfers. Former Jaguars cornerback Aaron Beasley won among the other athletes. They each get $6,000 to the charity of their choice. This year’s totals have exceeded expectations and beat the $175,000 raised last year. The Pajcics continued their tradition to match, dollar for dollar, all donations and prizes for Jacksonville Area Legal Aid (JALA).

Kamal Gasper, Andrea Williams, Diana Donovan, Niko Negron, Leah Adams, Megan Hayward, Audrienna Burgin and Yanira Cardona

Second trombone Yaoji Giuseppe Fu, associate concertmaster Yu-Ping Tsai, Jeff Lewis, JSYO assistant conductor David Song and Music Director Courtney Lewis

Shawn DeVries with Jim Kowalski

James Poindexter with his mom Carol and his children Sophie, David and Olivia

Austin Belet with Brandi Mathews and Jimmy Peluso

Kim Flower and Judge Gary Flower

Damon Otto with Steve Pajcic and Brian McCaffrey

L’Arche Jacksonville: Sharing Life for 40 Years

L’Arche Jacksonville is a nonprofit community for people with intellectual/ developmental disabilities. Formerly known as Harbor House, L’Arche is celebrating 40 years of service this year. Their Ruby Jubilee, a garden party honoring 40 years of community, friendships and sharing life, is May 10, 2025.

Located next door to Christ the King Catholic Church on Arlington Road, L’Arche has four homes where people with intellectual/developmental disabilities, who are known as “core members” live, and the Rainbow Workshop where they create pieces of art to display and sell.

The first L’Arche home opened in France in 1964. There are now 160 L’Arche communities in 37 countries around the world - 80 of the homes are in the United States.

Their mission envisions a world where everyone has a secure place of belonging in community, where people with and without disabilities can live in mutually transformative relationship, and where all people’s gifts are valued and given a place from which to contribute to the wider society.

L’Arche Jacksonville opened in 1985 and of the 14 core members living there currently, there are two core members who have lived there all 40 years.

“Sharing life” with the core members are assistants, who help with everyday needs, such as cooking, chores, daily routines and recreational activities. Some of the assistants live in the homes as well. The result is a welcoming, inclusive community for all.

“We have our very own Brady Bunch,” said Lorie Strange, development director.

Joy, 70, is the matriarch of the community. “Joy is really good at recognizing and reading people,” said assistant Mallory Koch. “She can tell when you are feeling overwhelmed and she just looks at you and says, ‘I love you.’ Joy calls us to slow down and be present.”

Adds assistant Elizabeth Cashen, “Love is the reason we are all here.”

Ann May, 68, has bright red hair and enjoys an occasional glass of wine. “Ann May appreciates the simplicity of quality time,” said Elizabeth. “You can sit in the living room and just be with her.” Mallory notes that Ann May is a “loyal friend who wants to get to know new people and enjoys singing songs during family dinner.”

Both Kathy, 80, and Jeff, 63, came to the community in 1989.

Purple-haired Kathy has a vibrant personality and a special nickname for everyone. She’s a great singer even when she doesn’t know the words. “Kathy loves creating,” said Mallory. “She discovered art at age 75 and her favorite is making ceramics in the clay room. When given time, gifts are revealed.”

Jeff was a “trickster as a kid” and loves to dance. He adds letters into word searches to spell names of other core members and assistants. “Jeff is so funny,” said Elizabeth. “He’s the rock of the house and a calming presence by being goofy and fun.”

During the weekday, most of the core members participate in the Rainbow Workshop, where they can paint, make jewelry, design notecards, form ceramics and more, which are for sale to benefit L’Arche Jacksonville. They also create coffee mugs, which are utilized at Happy Brew. In the evenings, they enjoy family dinners, singing and reading together. Special outings include concerts, football

games and traveling to see family.

What makes the L’Arche community special is the mutual friendships formed among a diverse group of people – some with intellectual/disabilities and some without –from various cultures and backgrounds. Since L’Arche is an international federation, some of the assistants have come to Jacksonville from other countries such as Poland, Germany and Morocco.

At L’Arche, the core members and assistants are all learning from each other. “In a society, where they are often overlooked, L’Arche recognizes and celebrates the gifts the core members have and want to share them with the greater community”, said Mallory. “But in reality, our core members are some of the greatest teachers of love and caring; they don’t care about climbing the social ladder.”

“There is a purpose here that you don’t get in other places,” said Elizabeth. “It gives you a perspective on life. Productivity doesn’t define you. Love does.”

For more information, please visit www.larchejacksonville.org

Ann enjoying a mug made by L’Arche Jacksonville at Happy Brew Jeff and Joy celebrating Joy’s 70th birthday

Kathy admiring her work and her gifts as a clay artist at Rainbow Workshop

By Peggy Harell Jennings

To quote Chaucer, now that April “hath bathed every veyne in swiche licour,” spring is upon us and the world is bursting with color – and artists celebrate the joys of nature with boundless creativity.

The Art Center Cooperative (TAC) Gallery’s recent reception for the juried show “Blooming” is a testimony to the vivid inspiration of flowers and the natural world. Paintings, sculptures, and assemblages are on display through May 9 and William Garcia is the Featured Artist of the Month. President Annelies Dykgraaf presented the Best in Show award, juried by Tiffany Manning, to Zlatka Angelova with Lisa Lifton’s ‘Why Hate Blooms” and Ed Malesky’s “Bloomer” each securing Juror’s Choice awards.

Branching Out in the ARTS

Jacksonville Artists’ Guild and TAC’s exhibit “All About Style” at Northpoint Dental challenged artists to broaden their approach by creating in a manner contrary to their usual approaches to painting or sculpture.

Congratulations to Best of Show winner Kristina Hoover and Juror’s Choice Award winners Bronwen Chandler and Wendy Sullivan.

Interested in doing, learning or hanging out with other artists? Check out TAC Gallery’s free to attend “Making Space for Art” on Monday April 7 and 21 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Art in the Park is another monthly event held in partnership between TAC and

resident Kevin Arthur were spotlighted at Southlight Gallery during last month’s ArtWalk. An established teacher and artist well known for his pastel portraits, Arthur’s work is always impressive and this exhibit, mostly oil paintings, is no exception.

Spring seems to be the time for artists to branch out and Aaron Jackson did so using acrylic pens for his portraits of Arthur and Pablo Rivera at Southlight Gallery.

Attendees to JAG’s monthly meeting were awed by Cork Arts District artist Stephanie Glen Ducasse’s presentation: Her amazing pen-and-ink drawing technique based on mathematical “building blocks” used a single continuous

JAG and the City of Jacksonville offering free art classes at different city parks. More information can be found at www. tacjacksonville.org/art-in-the-park.html

“Chickens, Monkeys and a Lizard or Two” - Dykgraaf’s display of paintings and vibrant woodcuts at Jewish Community Alliance - makes one long for an adventure. Dykgraaf’s work is highly detailed and full of storytelling, inspired by her time living in Africa for 18 years while her parents were missionaries.

Sixteen pieces by Murray Hill

April 2 Peggy Harrell Jennings Solo

“Birds and Blooms”

April

inspiration in found objects. Wood and Shuttleworth’s collaborative piece, “Tubes and Tuba: A Soundscape,” used an old tuba, two gramophone horns, safety cones, and PVC tubes to carry the music of DJ “Dr. Um” 30 feet into an adjacent gallery. This assemblage, “an exotic resonator,” continued the theme of recycling found objects into art.

Shuttleworth is the well-established queen of the traffic cones, so called because she frequently uses cones in her sculptures. She was fresh from exhibiting at DTJax Gala with her 16- foot “N-Spire” sculpture and “Downtown CONEections.”

Don’t miss the opportunity to munch and browse at 12 galleries for the

line which does not overlap. A single piece can sometimes take hundreds of hours.

One of her pieces – an eight-foot portrait of Princess Diana – was recently acquired for the Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum.

Touché Gallery was hopping for Lana Shuttleworth’s opening reception “Structural Flow: The Resonance of Stella and Wood.” Shuttleworth’s work is always fun and whimsical (who else would create an assemblage with a reconstructed child’s plastic rocking horse?). Wayne Wood, the other half of this dynamic duo, also finds

April

April

second annual Jax Gallery Brunch Hop. Schmooze with artists from Murray Hill to the Beaches on Sunday April 6th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact steve@ floridamininggallery.com for a detailed map of locations.

Sponsored by Dolf and Anna James, MOCA’s upcoming exhibit features 65 artists from Northeast Florida. The juried exhibit features several local artists including Dawn Montgomery of Ortega, who made the cut from more than 440 applicants.

Zlatka Angelova

Lana Shuttleworth

Annelies Dykgraaf

Bronwen Chandler Kristina Hoover Kevin Arthur

William Garcia Lana Shuttleworth, Wayne Wood, Kevin Calloway

Stephanie Glen Ducasse

Aaron Jackson

A Weekend of Inspiration at A Vision for Art

Art lovers came together for A Vision for Art’s Opening Night Celebration at the Episcopal School of Jacksonville on Friday, March 21.

The festivities were held at the school’s St. Mark’s campus and kicked off a four-day premiere art exhibition featuring more than 40 established and emerging artists Following the opening night event, shopping days were held Saturday through Monday, March 22 to 24, to peruse and purchase the art on display.

This annual event supports not only Jacksonville’s art community but also serves as a fundraiser to support the Episcopal School of Jacksonville’s mission.

ROBERTO FORLEO, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR presents

Spring is the perfect time for new beginnings. For nearly 20 years, JAA Architecture has helped Jacksonville homeowners create fresh, inspired designs. Let us bring your vision to life with expertise and care.

Karen Maynard with Bebe Alexander

A Vision for Art’s 2025 Committee Members Ashley Saoud with Caroline Pope, Cee Cee Cassidy, Callie Sprague, Rebecca Sale, Bonnie Melin, Susan Kwartler, Bebe Alexander, Ashley Kelley, Kelsey Clarkson and Caroline Close (not pictured were Kristin Bulgin, Karthik Krishnamurthy and Emily Painter)

Allison Watson with Pablo Rivera Beville Anderson with Susan Kwartler

Rachel Cochran with Bonnie Melin and Caron Loveless

Bill and Victoria Germond Florence Calhoun with Mary Love MacArthur and Joann Lampe

Artists Ariel Harder, Mark Carson English and Sophie Dare

Cee Cee Cassidy with Casey Bulgin Michele Many with Phil Sandusky

The Harbingers of Art

Steve Williams has been part of Jacksonville’s art and gallery scene since 1996. In addition to serving as the CEO of Harbinger Sign, run by his father and grandfather before him, Williams also runs the Florida Mining Gallery, which “represents a diverse group of artists working across painting, sculpture, photography, and video, encompassing both narrative and non-objective styles.”

“These are artists that we consign, that we own pieces of, that we sell in a commercial way,” Williams explained. That could be to architects, collections and collectors with a focus on real estate.

In this way, Williams is taking Harbinger Sign into its next chapter by combining three separate “silos” – sign making, branding (or rebranding) and art – into one experience for businesses and artists.

“We’re very passionate about the idea of arts in the branding world and the threedimensional environment,” Williams said.

Florida Mining Gallery focuses primarily on artists from the country’s Southeastern region and Williams said he particularly enjoys artwork that reflects areas of Jacksonville, telling unique stories about the communities in which he lives and works.

“I think just having the relationship with some artists that make work about the story where we’re living is important to us,” Williams said.

Florida Mining Gallery is currently located at 2756 Park Street in Riverside’s Park and King merchant corridor with plans in the works to relocate to a new facility in Springfield later this summer.

Cummer Museum Represented at the Met’s 2025 Costume Institute Exhibit

Marie Victoire Lemoine (French, 1754 – 1820), Portrait of a Youth in an Embroidered Vest, 1785, oil on canvas, 33 1/2 x 28 3/4 x 3 in., Purchased with funds from the Cummer Council, Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, Jacksonville, Florida, AP.1994.3.1. Douglas J. Eng Photography.

The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens will be represented in this year’s spring exhibition at The Costume Institute at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art.

“Portrait of a Youth in an Embroidered Vest” by Marie Victoire Lemoine is part of The Cummer’s permanent collection. It will be on loan to be part of the “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” exhibition, opening May 10.

The exhibition, curated by Guest Curator Monica L. Miller, “will present a cultural and historical examination of the Black dandy, from the figure’s emergence in Enlightenment Europe during the 18th century to today’s incarnations in cities around the world.”

“It is a tremendous honor that the Met has asked to borrow our celebrated portrait” said Andrea Barnwell Brownlee, Ph.D., the George W. and Kathleen I. Gibbs Director and CEO of the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. “Loaning ‘Portrait of a Youth in an Embroidered Vest’ is a boon for the Cummer Museum and for Jacksonville and residents of the First Coast can be proud of this distinction.”

“Histories

“Histories in Hand” is a powerful exhibit of hope and endurance.

A new exhibit at The LJD Jewish Family and Community Services is inviting visitors to reflect on the powerful connection between personal objects and the stories they carry.

“Histories in Hand” opened last month in the Frisch Family Holocaust Memorial Gallery at JFCS and includes items passed down from Holocaust survivors through the generations. Seemingly innocuous items like a spoon or a candlestick are tangible links to the past. This exhibit explores “a universal truth: objects often hold deep emotional value, especially for those who have survived tragedy.”

“Histories in Hand” is free to view and will run through this summer. The Frisch Family Holocaust Memorial Gallery is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at 8540 Baycenter Road.

Steve Williams and Rob Adams of Florida Mining Gallery

Hodges Brings Modern Twist to Jesus and Disciples

San Jose author Tristan Hodges brings Jesus’ life into the 21st century in “Twelve,” her modern-day retelling of Jesus and his disciples.

Since its release, Hodges has held a book signing at San Marco Books and More and “Twelve” has been featured in several area book clubs in Avondale, San Marco and San Jose.

With “Twelve” Hodges remains in the religious fiction genre. Her debut novel, “Seven” connected the 1st and 21st centuries in a retelling of Mary Magdalene’s story.

Hodges called her latest novel a “gospel narrative meets political thriller story.”

“As with my first novel, Seven, the idea for Twelve was a divine inspiration,” Hodges said. “Researching current and biblical events and then merging the two is challenging, exciting, and visionary.”

Hodges and her husband, Tyler, live on The Bolles School campus with their daughters Hannah and Madalene. “Twelve” can be purchased on Amazon and Barnes and Noble in paperback and ebook.

|

www.efyc.com | #eppingforestyachtclub

Tristan Hodges celebrates “Twelve” at a book signing at the San Marco Books and More. Top Row: Zoie Morales, MaryKay Venus, Dana Germaine, Tristan K. Hodges, Leslie Bishop, Cheryl Leddy, Laura Moore. Bottom Row: Amanda Soltau, Amanda Jackson, Erin Thomas, Tracy Morgan.

Tough Timing for State of the Sector Release

Report released during uncertainty in funding

Despite the recent cuts to federal programs and freezing of many federal funding sources, bright spots remain for Northeast Florida’s nonprofit sector.

The Nonprofit Center of Northeast Florida recently released the 2025 State of the Sector, its annual report analyzing the overall health of the sector, from financial stability to the breadth of organizations available and services offered.

Using data collected between 2022 and 2024, the State of the Sector report was prepared by KBT and Associates. In its introduction, the report said Northeast Florida’s philanthropic sector is strong, despite the turmoil of the past several years

(including the impact of the pandemic):

“Multiple performance measures show the vast majority of organizations operating at or above recommended levels,” the report read in its key findings.

Mary Kress Littlepage is a researcher with KBT & Associates studies nonprofit communities across the U.S. and notes that Jacksonville has a rare advantage because of its infrastructure.

“With resources such as the Nonprofit Center, Florida Nonprofit Alliance, City of Jacksonville Office of Strategic Partnerships and the First Coast Relief Fund, local nonprofits are uniquely poised to meet our community’s needs,” she said.

Cutbacks and Freezes

While the report reflects the sector’s wellbeing in the years following the pandemic, it could not consider how the recent federal freezes and cutbacks will impact nonprofits moving forward.

At the Nonprofit Center of Northeast Florida’s “Keep Calm and Carry On”themed All Member Gathering in February, CEO Dawn Lockhart assured the group the nonprofit sector is Northeast Florida is strong and able to weather these uncertain times under the new administration and federal funding freezes.

“We are monitoring all the information out there so we can be a resource,” Lockhart told members.

There are local organizations that have already begun feeling the impact of these freezes, however.

For Catholic Charities Jacksonville, the federal changes have been devastating. The U.S. Refugees Admissions Program was suspended in January, leading Catholic Charities to lay off 26 employees due to lack of funding.

CEO Anita Hassell said, “We currently have 49 families, which is about 500 people, who have recently arrived to the U.S. who were promised services, including housing and assistance finding a job. With no more funding, these families are in danger of becoming homeless.”

Catholic Charities is appealing to their donors and the community to help these families who have escaped persecution in their home countries only to come to the U.S. to struggle to survive.

Although currently operating with a “skeleton crew,” Catholic Charities will not abandon these families in need.

In Florida Nonprofit Alliance’s recently released 2024 Florida Nonprofits Survey, nearly half of responding nonprofits reported funding and fundraising as their biggest challenges, continuing a trend five years in the making, with funding and fundraising assistance landing near the top of the list of needs for many organizations.

According to the State of the Sector report, government funds make up 22% of revenue sources for First Coast nonprofits, except for health institutions (for which government funding is listed at one percent of revenue sources.

FNA President and CEO Sabeen Perwaiz said bridging the gap between the lost federal funding and individual giving will be difficult, if not impossible.

“Foundations and individual giving cannot fill in gaps if there are cuts in government funding,” said Perwaiz. “Only about 13% of revenues come from foundations, individuals and corporations.”

Wrap-Up

Though difficult times and conversations may lie ahead, Dr. Audrieanna Burgin, a board director for the Nonprofit Center, called our local nonprofit sector “a beacon of hope” during these unpredictable times.

Amy Crane, VP of Programs at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, was also encouraged by the data.

– Sabeen Perwaiz President & CEO, Florida Nonprofit Alliance

“The State of the Sector report reinforces the critical role of nonprofits in the community,” Crane said. “They make a dramatic impact on quality of life, from healthcare to education to arts and culture, which all contribute to making Northeast Florida an attractive place to live and do business. This data particularly underscores their sizable impact on our economy, driving more than $12.9 billion in revenue and employing more than 79,000 workers, ranking third in employment by industry. The Nonprofit Center is playing an important leadership role in gathering and analyzing this data, and we’re grateful for their work.”

Just as hard conversations sometimes take place around the kitchen tables when families have to reassess their budgets, so too may hard conversations happen around board room tables as nonprofits pivot to continue serving their communities while absorbing the financial impacts of decisions made at the federal level.

Sunday April 27 2025

Registration is now open www.jasmyn.org/strides-for-pride

Day of Registration opens at 7am • 5k starts at 8am • 1 mile starts at 8:10am

Northbank Riverwalk Artist Square (RAM space) • 729 Riverside Ave. • Jacksonville

By Lauren Weedon Hopkins

April is All About Giving Back Celebrating Global Volunteer Month

This month, we’re turning the spotlight on some of the most powerful (and often unsung) heroes in our community – volunteers! April marks Global Volunteer Month, and with National Volunteer Week running from April 20 to 26, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the incredible impact volunteers have on the First Coast. Our local nonprofit organizations wouldn’t be the same without them – many couldn’t even survive!

To put it into perspective, volunteers in Florida contribute a whopping $31.61 per hour, according to the Independent Sector. But, let’s be honest – no dollar figure can fully capture the heart and soul that volunteers pour into their work. The real value is immeasurable and felt in every smile, every helping hand, and every life changed. Let’s dive into how volunteers are making a difference right here at home!

Volunteers in Medicine Jacksonville, led by CEO Jennifer Ryan, is the only fullservice clinic in Northeast Florida to provide free quality medical care for those who work, but are unable to afford the high cost of health insurance or expensive doctor visits. With 273 volunteer doctors, nurses and other professionals, VIM provides free primary care across 16 medical specialties and utilizes volunteers to work its clinics’ front desks and qualify patients for care.

In FY23-24, VIM volunteers gave 14,530 hours of service so 2,810 active patients could have 5,419 medical appointments.

Without insurance, these patients would have usually made those visits to the ER, which accounts for savings of more than $23 million!

Led by President and CEO Susan King, Feeding Northeast Florida serves 12 counties by annually distributing 34.6 million pounds of food to more than 495 food pantries and feeding programs. There are 272,600 people in our community facing hunger every day, including more than 80,000 children. With big needs like these, volunteers are essential. Last year, Feeding Northeast Florida had more than16,000 volunteers that gave 30,000-plus hours! The organization welcomes individual volunteers as well as groups to help with food sorting and mobile pantry shifts. The minimum age to volunteer is 10, though an adult must be present for youth 10 to 16 years old. Donating even a little to Feeding Northeast Florida goes a long way. For every $1 given, they can provide six nutritious meals.

Habitat for Humanity Jacksonville, also known as HabiJax, builds affordable housing and has provided homeownership opportunities and other housing services to more than 2,300 families since its inception in 1988 and is led by President and CEO Monte Walker. Each homeowner works alongside volunteers to construct the residence. Volunteers also work at the ReStore, the home improvement superstore, which sells appliances, cabinets, mattresses, furniture and more, to benefit HabiJax. Last year, 1,674 volunteers served nearly 10,000 hours. There is no experience necessary to volunteer at the homesites and the ReStore. Training, tools and supervision are all provided.

Monetary donations are welcome as well as items that can be resold at the ReStore and corporate or residential pickup can be arranged. This April, HabiJax was chosen as a Key Build partner for Home Is the Key, the national Habitat for Humanity campaign. From April 1 to 4, HabiJax board and staff will join area faith and business leaders, plus 20 unsung heroes for Leaders Week build days.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida, under the leadership of CEO Sara Alford, creates and supports one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Now through April 24, they are participating in a national campaign in partnership with the NFL to recruit mentors called The Big Draft. Big Brothers Big Sisters is also the recipient of the change boxes at the GATE gas stations across the Southeast from now until June, with proceeds staying in the community in which the coins are collected. In FY23-24, 648 mentors served as a “Big” to their “Little” counterparts, giving 11,261 volunteer hours. While it is a minimum one-year commitment to become a Big, the

By Michele Leivas

organization also utilizes volunteers to help with quarterly activities for the children on the waiting list for a mentor, as well as annual school supply and holiday assistance drives. Special events also include a run, a golf tournament and a margarita party.

Join a Civic Organization

If you like volunteering in a group and supporting a variety of causes, joining a civic organization may be the best way you can give back to your community. While these groups usually have a membership fee and a meeting requirement, they provide the structure and the manpower to make a collective difference.

Women’s Giving Alliance, an initiative of The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, is a collective giving circle that supports women and girls with a focus area that rotates every few years. The current focus is “Addressing Violence Against Women and Girls” through education and grants to nonprofit organizations. WGA members can participate in grants decisions as well as hands-on volunteer opportunities.

Rotary International is a global organization dedicated to service with a goal to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through a fellowship of business leaders. In our 12-county District 6970, there are 64 Rotary clubs. Each meets weekly and usually features a guest speaker and a meal. While each club supports local nonprofits, the global focus is sustainability and the eradication of polio.

Junior League of Jacksonville is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism and community leadership. Since its founding in 1923, they have partnered with more than 65 nonprofit organizations and contribute over 10,000 volunteer hours annually.

The Meninak Club of Jacksonville meets every Monday for lunch with a special guest speaker. With a focus on enhancing the lives of children, Meninak annually funds one capital improvement project for a local nonprofit as well as college scholarships to high school seniors.

A One-Woman Show

For more than a decade, Terry Criss has hosted a weekly program for the residents at Riverside Post Acute, though it has evolved over the years. It initially involved her simply reading whatever human interest or uplifting stories she could find in the newspapers but she quickly realized she could do more.

“I said, ‘Well I really would like – if I’m going to come over here, I’d like to spend an hour [with the residents],’” Criss recalled. And so Tuesdays with Terry was born. Today, it’s more of a variety program during which Criss streams everything from interesting news stories to music videos, throwing in the odd throwback video – anything that might engage and interest her participants. With roughly 15 to 20 regulars every week, Tuesdays with Terry has become a popular onewoman, volunteer-run program.

“They really look forward to coming on Tuesday with me and that is my pleasure that I see them smiling, laughing, singing along, just having a good time away from the humdrum of the usual life in the senior home,” Criss said.

She hopes others might gain inspiration from the program she’s created and launch something similar at other senior living facilities throughout Jacksonville.

“They could do exactly the same thing that I can do and look how many more people would have some enjoyment during the week that they spend in a nursing home,” Criss said.

In addition to volunteering at Riverside Post Acute, Criss has also been volunteering at Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside since 2015.

Terry Criss hosts a weekly variety show called Tuesdays with Terry for the residents at Riverside Post Acute.

ANIMAL HOUSE

Want to feed us?

Become a Magic Maker! For $7 a month, you can provide food, vetcare, and everything the rescued animals need to thrive.

LEARN MORE: epicoutreach.org/donate

National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day

The perfect time to adopt, foster or donate

By Julie Kerns Garmendia

Pet Adoption

private rescues doing equally lifesaving work need

help too. These organizations receive no government funds but operate solely on taxdeductible donations.

Smaller rescues serve as a secondary safety net when they “pull” overlooked animals out of overcrowded shelters. These include animals less likely to be adopted or whose time has simply run out; one rural county shelter only gives unclaimed pets 30 days to be adopted.

Every rescue defines “less likely to be adopted” or “unadoptable” differently, but they are usually animals that never receive any interest from potential adopters, all black animals, large dogs, fearful or timid pets, and senior or disabled pets. Animals with medical conditions or other special needs may be considered unadoptable by shelters unable to afford veterinarians or specialized care.

Breed prejudice does make adoption more difficult for some dogs because to stereotypes that assume all bully breeds, rottweilers, dobermans, and chow dogs are aggressive, bite, or attack. Even usually popular small dogs may be bypassed because of the belief that they yap uncontrollably or are ankle-biters.

Experienced rescuers know that few homeless pets are unadoptable. Most animals can eventually be adopted after thorough health screening and behavioral evaluation, socialization, training, patience, and more time for community promotion.

There is a small percentage of homeless or unclaimed pets with untreatable illness, mental instability, or catastrophic injuries for which euthanasia is the humane choice. Similarly, some pets may have behavioral issues that even professional rehabilitation and training cannot correct. Pets forced

Coastal Canine Rescue

Finding Loving Homes for NE Florida’s Urgent Shelter Dogs

364 Hickory Acres Lane, St. Johns County Coastalcaninerescue.org

Fosters and donations save urgent shelter dogs and fund emergency veterinary care.

DAGGER

Three-year-old Dagger weighs 65 pounds and is neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. This affectionate, extrawiggly boy adores children and other dogs and shows loyalty. He makes being a tripod with only three legs look simple, taking stairs with ease, visiting markets and sports events, and playing with friends.

to remain in chaotic shelters, sometimes double-kenneled in alreadysmall cages, can develop stress symptoms, including weight loss, avoidance, barking, or other behaviors that hurt their adoptability.

Private animal rescues differ from city or county shelters because they are not funded by any municipality. They are also usually founded by rescuers who work a regular job and use their own resources and home to care for and reunite lost pets or rehome the homeless. Eventually, they reach capacity and must ask family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors to help house pets, which is how foster networks begin.

Eventually, the private rescue outgrows the founder’s personal financial ability to provide necessary veterinary care, food, and housing for its rescued animals. Then, they often choose to begin the lengthy process of qualifying to become a licensed nonprofit organization able to accept financial or supply donations.

Ten animal rescues have each submitted one of their adoptable pets for promotion in Resident News. They gratefully accept ongoing support through one-time, weekly, monthly, or quarterly donations that fund their rescue operations and pay for veterinary care, food, and supplies for animals awaiting adoption. Inquire about any adoption fee, which pays for veterinarian services.

Private rescues gladly accept mailed checks or online donations, corporate or civic group sponsorship, adopters, fosters, volunteers, or supply purchases from their websites or Facebook Wish Lists. Some rescues with physical shelters welcome high school students to complete required volunteer community service hours.

Neptune Beach Animal Control

200 Lemon Street (At Beaches Town Center) | (904) 270-2411

To meet Lucy: (904) 994-9821

LUCY

Lucy, who has beautiful ears, is an ACPS adoptable pet fostered by Neptune Beach Animal Control Officer Dee Zagari. Zagari says two-year-old Lucy weighs 58 pounds, is spayed, microchipped, vaccinated, house- and crate-trained, and knows basic commands. She likes other dogs but no cats or very small childre said their small shelter needs volunteers.

Neptune Beach Animal Control

Papillon Pals Rescue | 10568 Inverness Drive Papillonpalsrescue.com | papillonpals@rescue.net

KUBO

This nonprofit rescues any small dog that is ill, injured, imperfect, or a senior that ends up in a county shelter. Handsome Kubo, five years old, is 22 pounds of silky-coated, mixed-breed spaniel. He is vaccinated and neutered, heartworm-negative, and microchipped. He loves people, older children, car rides, and walks but can be reactive on a leash. Kubo, a devoted companion, likes other small dogs once introduced.

SAFE Animal Shelter 2913 County Rd. 220, Clay County | (904) 375-9122 | Safeanimalshelter.com

BANDIT (#16853)

SAFE, Clay County’s first no-kill shelter since 1991, also saves shelter animals in Duval and all of Northeast Florida. Six-year-old bully-mix Bandit weighs 70 pounds. A staff favorite, he is laidback but loves leash walks, car rides, and fetching tennis balls. Bandit is vaccinated, heartworm-negative, microchipped, neutered, loving, and shows protective behavior. Timid at first, Bandit wants to be a companion and is fine with older children but needs to be the only pet.

EPIC OUTREACH

P.O. Box 77479 | (904) 274-1177 | Epicoutreach.org | Epicanimals2015@ gmail.com

EPIC works to create a kinder world for people, animals, and the environment through animal rescue, educational programs, events at its farm sanctuary, and community outreach. Its promotion of empathy, kindness, and sustainable living includes Camp Compassion for children. Founder Jessie Miller welcomes donations of $7 each month to pay for one rescued animal’s food and veterinary care.

MASON

This five-year-old neutered male is a sweet, gentle soul who likes other animals and people, especially children. Mason is fully vaccinated and a compact 150 pounds, ready for his own family.

OLIVER

No photo can capture the stunning eyes of sixyear-old Oliver. This leg-rubbing, loud-purring lover comes when you call but needs time to adjust to new people and places. He is neutered, FELV/FIV negative, vaccinated, healthy, and best with adults, older/calm children, and other cats.

Jacksonville Humane Society 8464 Beach Blvd. | (904) 493-4565 | Jaxhumane.org

MINION

Two-year-old Minion weighs 58 pounds and is vaccinated and neutered. He has shelter stress and can’t wait to be outside, running zoomies or taking long walks. His expressive face actually smiles, and he is attuned to his people. Minion can’t wait to snuggle at home and enjoy his favorite side rubs and meaty treats. He is dog-selective and untested with children and cats.

MINION

OLIVER

Charming Brick Bungalow nestled on a tree-lined street in the heart of Jacksonville. The perfect blend of original character and modern updates. Lush landscaping with

park-like setting around the property. Original hardwood floors compliment

I am grateful for people in our neighborhood who notice needs and meet them – sans fanfare or stewing over it or polling others. These folks see something, and they do something. It’s as simple as that. Most accurately described as angels on earth, these neighbors deploy their special brand of strength to improve the lives of others and by so doing, make our communities heaven on Earth for the rest of us.

I’m sure you have a list forming in your mind already. It may be the person who circulates a petition or starts the GoFundMe, meal train or CaringBridge signup for a family experiencing turbulence of some kind. Or maybe it’s the person who supports it with a donation, gift or encouraging comment. I bet it’s that mom down the street who habitually fosters babies or the couple who takes in homeless pets during the holidays to prime them for “forever homes.” These are the people who see a need, say to themselves, “Hey, I can help.” These are the folks who get the job done.

No one does this better, in my opinion, than Colonial Manor royalty, Suzanne and Joe Honeycutt. I’ve mentioned them before, mainly because I’m obsessed with their example of generosity and community service and think there is so much about humanity we can all learn from them. The list of angel-on-earth acts the Honeycutts have led are so numerous I have trouble remembering all of them, but let it be known there are a great many. They are adopted grandparents to an extensive gaggle of children – many now grown – who happened into their lives for one reason or another over the years. And by adopted grandparents, I’m not talking about some cute little title they gave themselves. Oh, no. The Honeycutts are the kind of adopted grandparents who will drive carpool, make snacks after school or let you stay in their back house for a spell while you’re home from college on holiday break, or simply need a break. These grands have a place at the

Honeycutts’ Thanksgiving table, they are family forever – their needs are met.

The Honeycutts are known as Mama and Papa Joe to waste collection drivers, car maintenance professionals, business and restaurant owners, landscape and property contractors, neighbors, friends and folks at church. Why? Because the Honeycutts eternally endear themselves to others by noticing. Noticing, and then acting.

A recent “notice” is a great example of how this works for them – and how it can work for you, too. Last fall, Suzanne “noticed” that a friendly employee at the Miramar Goodwill collection center she frequents was losing weight. He admitted he was indeed losing weight, and a poorly made set of dentures was to blame. Suzanne took immediate action. An engaging social media user and lively communicator, Suzanne threw her friend’s needs out into the local interwebs and talked up the challenge among friends, professionals and community leaders, providing opportunities for others to consider ways they could help bring a new smile to this neighbor’s face. Her “together-we-can-help” mindset led her to a neighborhood dentist who agreed to help sponsor a new set of chompers. “Fake News,” Suzanne proclaimed after her friend’s properly fitting dentures were installed, “And assurance that there are heroes among us!”

Heroes, angels on Earth. There are so many Suzannes and Joes out there on the scene. And there are so many opportunities for us to give noticing and meeting needs a go. It doesn’t always come naturally, and it doesn’t always go the way you envisioned it, but with a little persistence, we can all be better at it.

One Christmas, my husband, David, was driving through San Marco Square and noticed a homeless person trudging down the sidewalk. Feeling nudged, David went home and made a plate of food for the man then returned to San Marco Boulevard to deliver it. The dude was

By Susanna Barton

nowhere to be found. He was gone. With a plate of vittles losing steam in his lap, David continued driving around until he saw a woman walking down the notorious section of Phillips Highway with a roller bag, or a stroller, I forget which. David offered her the plate of food and while the exchange was awkward and sad, the leftovers went to someone who needed them more than he did. I told David I wasn’t sure about the optics on that whole exchange, but who am I to PR-manage a well-intentioned notice?

Two summers ago, our daughter Marley noticed when she asked if she could foster a small kitten found at the pet boarding facility at which she’d been working. She had to ask permission because she was living with us still. I, for one, did not want any more pets around the house, and was ready to give it the big thumbs down. But I agreed to an arrangement because this kitty was so tiny and frail, I couldn’t imagine a scenario where it lived more than a few days. Boy was I unable to see the miracle and needmeeting in the making! Total foster fail! With Marley’s diligence and attention, that sickly little furball became her bada** emotional support sidekick-kitty, Bean and we can’t imagine life without her.

Some classmates at a local Pilates studio saw a need for their instructor to enjoy the gift of vacation and family time. So, they pooled their resources and sponsored a family retreat at a nearby beach condo. Need noticed, need met.

Noticing and meeting the need isn’t

always warm and fuzzy. It can also be an unpleasant have-to. A not-to-be-named friend noticed a need to share a big “eff you” with an acquaintance who spewed unacceptable hate speech. Sometimes calling it like you see it is the noticing that gets the need met – though I don’t advocate it in all circumstances. Noticing and meeting should have communitybuilding at the forefront!

Imagine what kind of world we would live in if we all just looked up a little more and took better account of all the people and their needs around us. And if we looked inward a little more to take stock of our special strengths, talents and characteristics and figured out how they might best benefit others. Our communities already are full of these angels on Earth, we see them in action every day! But more is better. More noticing and need-meeting is the key to happiness in our lives, and we all need more of that.

Susanna Barton tried to meet a need a day for more than a year during a prolonged Lenten challenge a while back. It was really, really hard and she learned you have to work at it. 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

THE WAY WE WERE 38

WELLNESS

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Carter and Cheryl Bryan

“It was terrifying,” she said. “I was so intimidated and didn’t smile for months. The greatest thing about it is if everyone could be a teacher, it’s great preparation for motherhood.”

By Peggy Harrell Jennings

Growing up in Avondale, the Bryan family on Belvedere Avondale and the Langston family on Hollywood Avenue, put Cheryl Langston and Carter Bryan in close contact.

“We were together when we were in diapers, and we’ll be together when we are in diapers again,” Carter said in his humorous manner about their 58-year marriage.

A Ponytail in Paint

Perhaps the first inkling of the relationship to develop was at the Children’s Museum (now MOSH) on Riverside Avenue in art class when they were five years old and young Cheryl’s blonde ponytail “met a can of red paint” thanks to young, mischievous Carter. There were a lot of calls to the Mamas during their childhood. Carter’s Schwinn Jaguar Mark 2 was his pride and joy, and Avondale was bustling with kids on bikes as parks and streets beckoned for discovery, exploration, fun and innocent shenanigans.

Carter, the middle child of three brothers and Cheryl and her three siblings were like family. Wonderful childhood memories abound for both families. The Langstons enjoyed traveling by train since her dad worked for Seaboard Coastline Railroad. Her mother packed a suitcase full of snacks, made the children matching outfits so she could keep up with them, and off they went to places around the country.

When the Bryan family moved to Ortega, the Avondale gang was split up temporarily since Carter attended Lakeshore Junior High School. At six-footone Carter was the tallest kid around and was pursued by coaches to play football, basketball, and other sports in which he had absolutely no interest.

Lakeshore, he said, was “sort of a rough place” and guys sometimes wanted to fight him, but he certainly had no interest in that either. Meanwhile, Cheryl at John Gorrie Junior High played every sport imaginable: bound ball, badminton, tennis; she was pitcher on the softball team, and played basketball as well.

The diminutive woman, barely five feet tall, was as athletic as Carter was not. At John Gorrie she was the PE teacher’s office aide to well-remembered Coaches Lazenbee and Shaar. Cheryl and Carter stayed in touch through friends and acquaintances, then reunited during their high school years at Robert E. Lee (now Riverside) High School and the dynamic duo certainly bloomed in every imaginable way.

Cheryl was a cheerleader, the darling of numerous organizations and excelled

academically. Indeed, she was valedictorian of the Class of 1963 - while Carter, although a leader in student council and many other school activities, struggled with his studies. He mentioned that he was no stranger to then-Dean of Boys John Prom’s paddle. However, that did not prevent him from, as Cheryl said, “being in charge of everything” including serving as president of the Kappa High Y. Coincidentally his (now) sister-inlaw Peggy (Paul) Bryan was the mascot.

“I was the worst student to go through Lee High School,” Carter joked. “John Prom called me into his office and told me that he and [Dean of Girls] Virgie Cone and [Principal] Warren Kirkham had decided to give me a diploma ‘so we can get control of the school back.’”

An Unexpected Diagnosis

What Carter would find out much later in life while visiting the DePaul School of Northeast Florida was that he had dyslexia. A description of this particular disorder pinpointed his learning difficulties perfectly. Of course, there was no testing or specific diagnosis for that learning disability until the mid-1960s, so it is no wonder that he struggled academically.

“If only I’d had something like that (school) growing up,” he said.

However, his multitude of lifetime achievements prove that this forwardthinking man was not to be held back and went on to achieve outstanding success in business ventures as well as becoming a highly respected philanthropist.

During his high school years his mother said that he needed to “think more about school and not so much about Cheryl.”

From that ponytail dipping at age five to their first date at 16 to see “Cimarron” at the Edgewood Theater, Cheryl and Carter have been together. Carter could barely concentrate when he took Cheryl to Le Chateau for a romantic dinner on August 12, 1966 because he had left a ring - a family

heirloom - in the glove box when the valet parked the car. Thankfully, all was well and during a walk on the beach, he popped the question.

Their parents had warned them that marriages at 17 did not last (there is a long amusing side story about this) so they were married on August 5, 1967 at Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd just a few months after Cheryl’s cum laude college graduation from Wheaton College with a degree in biology.

Carter jokingly said he didn’t want to talk about his various college experiences, but the young couple stayed in touch even while apart.

“Remember writing letters? And we had phones in our rooms, so we supported Southern Bell,” Cheryl said. “Carter came to Wheaton several times and enchanted all the northern girls with his southern accent and charm.”

Cheryl’s mother was a seamstress and among her other numerous talents and skills, Cheryl is as well. She cut her wedding dress out on a ping pong table at college and had it ready for her wedding. The young couple honeymooned in Jamaica, then bought a house on Garibaldi for $20,00.00.

During school Carter, not one to be deterred from success, mowed lawns for $5, trimmed poodles for $10 and sold cemetery plots before working as a debit insurance agent for Independent Life. Eventually, he joined the sales department and became a manager. He also served as an operating room technician for six years in the Army Reserves.

Grown to Success

Carter is grateful that his parents got to see him become so successful, including becoming an award-winning salesman, member of the Million Dollar Round Table, founder of Physicians’ Advantage and co-founder of Med Mal Direct Insurance Company now the largest medical malpractice insurance company in the nation.

The list of boards on which he has served, the offices in a multitude of charitable organizations he has held –including lifetime membership on the Board of the American Cancer Society – and his awards, commendations and memberships would fill an old-fashioned telephone directory.

While Carter climbed the ladder of success in the insurance business, Cheryl graduated in May, married in August, then settled in as a teacher (with absolutely no experience) at Episcopal School of Jacksonville.

After three years Carter was so successful that Cheryl quit teaching to become involved in many worthy organizations in Jacksonville. The couple’s work with the Children’s Home Society led to the adoption of their first two children, Sheldon and Kate, then happily two years after Kate they had Harper. They now have eight grandchildren, and the couple agree that their life with their children is their greatest gift. The family spent all their summers in the Bahamas- living on their boat – and the neighborhood was like the 1950s with a deep sense of community. They all were certified divers, went snorkeling and enjoyed the “beauty of God’s creation.” The Carters also befriended a Swedish student, Hans Gable, who lived with them for over a year and was like an older brother to the Bryan children.

A Passion for Philanthropy

Carter’s father Jacob F. Bryan, a highly respected local insurance executive, was a dedicated philanthropist and among many other organizations, a promoter of the American Cancer Society. He was determined that his sons would be dedicated to charitable work as well and Cheryl and Carter, as well as J.C. Bryan and his wife Peggy, have been described as “community servants.” Kendall Bryan has remained involved in the Henry and Lucy Gooding Foundation.

“What else in life is there if you can’t help others,” Carter said. “There is no greater feeling than to help people at their lowest.”

These Type A achievers have contributed amazing programs to our community. Need a mammogram from the Mobile Mammogram bus? Thank Carter for helping to establish that. Need a place to stay while receiving cancer treatment? Thank Carter for helping develop Hope Lodge. Need support for the Cancer Society, the Children’s Home Society, the De Paul Society, St. Vincent’s Medical Center, Junior League or to start up a recycling program in Jacksonville? Thank Cheryl. Just a few reasons that she was the Eve Award recipient for lifetime achievement in 2012. The Bryans feel that they have been blessed to serve and help people and have dedicated their lives to that purpose.

Cheryl loves gardening, reading, and crocheting. Carter does amazing woodworking and makes lovely furniture. Spending time with their family is important to them as they continue a legacy of promoting and supporting local organizations.

When asked for a one-word description to describe their spouse, they both said, “Wonderful.” Cheryl joked they have been together way too long to be original.

From their youthful romance until now, their favorite song sums up a lifetime of love for others and each other. As Johnny Mathis sang so long ago, “You ask how long I’ll love you; I’ll tell you true. Until the twelfth of never, I’ll still be loving you. Until the Twelfth of Never and that’s a long, long time.”

Carter and Cheryl Bryan

Cheryl and Carter Bryan – High School Yearbook photos

Carter and Cheryl’s wedding Carter and Cheryl with their children

Commodore’s League at 50 Years

Reflections of a city enhanced by welcoming waterways

By Karen Rieley

There is only one way to view Jacksonville’s riverfront and that is from the city’s most unique feature: the beautiful and captivating St. John’s River. For 50 years, the Jacksonville Commodore’s League (JCL) has volunteered its time and boats to help showcase just how special Jacksonville is by giving groups of business leaders and others with organizations considering a change of location a view of the city from the river.

“We are poised and ready to provide our unique gift toward the betterment of our city,” said Susan Grich, president and CEO of the Health Planning Council of Northeast Florida and a Commodore’s league member.

The group of committed civic leaders has honored visiting industrialists, potential investors, political figures and more. The JCL has coordinated with the Jax Chamber of Commerce, the Mayor’s office and other developmental organizations involved in civic betterment.

“Our prime directive has always been to get businesses to come to Jacksonville,” said John Kirby, owner of John L. Kirby & Associates. “With all that’s going on downtown right now, in three or four years from now you won’t recognize the riverfront.”

Kirby is serving a one-year appointment as commodore of JCL.

According to the City’s “I Dig Jax” campaign, there are 10 major projects underway, with six of them visible from the river.

“We usually do not know who is going to be on the boat and are asked to keep identities confidential until they make final decisions about location,” Kirby said. “We recently took 20 people from an organization out on a two-hour tour. It was a

true Chamber of Commerce day with perfect weather. They were amazed at how much is happening along the river.”

The league was organized on July 1, 1975, by a group of business owners and individuals devoted to increasing visibility of Jacksonville by volunteering their time and boats/yachts as a unique cruising service for potential businesses to consider Jacksonville as a location for their growth and expansion. JCL is also willing to provide cruises north and south of Jacksonville, subject to review by JCL and at the private boat owner’s discretion.

Founding members include Bob Alligood, Jack Becker, Henry Beckwith, Carter Bryan, Bill Derr, Jim Fischette, John Godfrey, Sam Hill, Jim Irwin, Pete Loftin, Dick Ludlow and Ed Bell Oberle, First Flag Commodore.

“As far as I know, we’re the only such league in the United States,” said Carter Bryan, chairman of the board for Med Mail Direct Insurance Company.

Grich noted that spouses were very involved in ensuring that their boats were in immaculate condition for the cruises. Vivan Heath served as a liaison between the prospective guests and the JCL. Sue Heinzel has organized, planned events and provided back-office services to ensure that the JCL ran smoothly for the past 50 years.

Grich said membership for this volunteer organization is invitation only and while desirable, owning a boat is not a requirement.

“The larger the boat the more accommodating we can be for our guests and VIPs,” Grich said. “Even if they don’t own a boat, we welcome members that are willing to volunteer to assist in organizational management initiatives and tasks.”

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Art Dobosiewicz’ 65-foot Pacific Mariner, Annison

Tommie Derr and (unknown guest) with former Mayor Tommy Hazouri and his wife Carol alongside Bud Adams, former owner of the Houston Oilers (now Tennessee Titans), Bill Derr and Captain Robert Derr aboard the Derr Family’s 53’ Hatteras – TOBY III.

Host, Art Dobosiewicz on the aft, lower deck of his yacht, Annison, with Susan (Derr) Grich, Tom Schacht and Commodore John Kirby, of the Commodore’s League, relaxing before embarking on a recent voyage to showcase Jacksonville.

Anastacia Garcia

By Holly Tishfield

Love, compassion, friendship are three values by which Anastacia Garcia lives and upon which she has built a community

A Philadelphia native who moved to Jacksonville in October 2023 after living in Miami for a handful of years, Garcia found meeting new friends was difficult in such a big city. While Garcia moved to Northeast Florida with her fiancé, she found she was missing those social connections with friends that she relies on so deeply.

“I’m a grade-A, capital ‘P’ people-person,” she said. “I love community, and I recently realized just how important it is to me.”

One New Year’s Day, as she sat with her fiancé, the idea struck her to create an Instagram account like the many she’d seen in other cities to bring together a group of women for a walk: a simple way to not only meet new people but also explore the sights of Jacksonville. Garcia utilized her graphic design skills to develop an official logo and brand for her new page, @ prettygirlswalkjax.

Garcia shared news about her new social group on several Jacksonville-based community pages like @jaxgalssocial, a women-led network focused on connecting women in the Jacksonville area through community and social events. Garcia felt uncertain about the response to her new group: It was her first attempt at stepping into the world of social groups, let alone her first time hosting one. Her worry was short-lived, though, because more than 75 women attended her very first walk.

“My goal is simple,” Garcia said. “I want to have a great walk. If you’re coming alone, you’re going to leave with friends. This is a community built on friendship and uplifting other women. Maybe you don’t feel pretty coming in, but you’re going to feel pretty leaving.”

Garcia wanted to create an environment for women to find a community of like-minded individuals while doing something fun. The walks are designed for women of all ages and backgrounds, with inclusivity at the heart of the group’s mission.

To prepare for the bi-weekly meetups, Garcia selects a location and posts the details on her Instagram page, inviting old and new members to join the walk. She’ll scout out a location that has accessible parking and a landmark that walkers will be familiar with, like the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens.

So far, the walks have explored several areas, including Riverside, San Marco, Southside, and Neptune Beach – locations that Garcia knows are popular with walkers. In the future, she is hoping to expand the walks into Avondale.

Since the very first walk, Garcia has enjoyed partnering with local small businesses. She recognized the number of women-owned businesses in the area and wanted to collaborate in a way that would not only benefit the businesses but also benefit the walkers. Many of the walks will include stops at local coffee shops, bookstores or salons

that will offer discounts to the walkers.

Garcia keeps busy running social media accounts for not only @prettygirlswalkjax but also serving as a community engagement officer for @jaxgalssocial and coordinating the logistics of their monthly book club. She answers questions, designs and posts important updates, initiates chats in the Whatsapp group and generally works to ensure both new and old members feel welcomed and included.

“It brings me so much joy to be able to bless myself and my community with an environment where you can feel included as soon as you walk up to it,” Garcia said.

“Through @prettygirlswalkjax, Jacksonville

has become my home. I grew a family here.”

Throughout the last year, @prettygirlswalkjax has become a local success with the group of walkers growing by the month. Garcia’s partnerships with local businesses have grown to the point where she now receives collaboration requests. She welcomes these opportunities and ensures that each partnership is mutually beneficial to both the walker and the business. The 2025 walks will feature an exciting mix of new locations and fresh collaborations.

“I didn’t build @prettygirlswalkjax alone,” Garcia said. “The community built it up with me because they saw something that they believed in. I’m incredibly thankful.”

Anastacia Garcia, founder of @prettygirlswalkjax, finds her passion in building community.

Anastacia Garcia and the walkers of @prettygirlswalkjax on a stroll through the Riverwalk

Walkers gather for a photo after their trek through beautiful San Marco.

Anastacia Garcia has cultivated a community of friendship through her walks in @prettygirlswalkjax

Celebrating 15 Years of Pride at the Annual Rainbow Awards

The Jacksonville LGBT Chamber of Commerce celebrated businesses,

groups and organizations making a positive impact in Jacksonville’s LGBTQ+ community at the 15th annual Rainbow Awards and Gala.

The evening was held at the Schultz Center the evening of March 8. The black-tie and evening gown affair included a cocktail hour, a VIP Meet-n-Greet and the awards show followed by vendor exhibits.

More than 50 individuals, businesses, groups and organizations were recognized during the awards show with another 11 honorees named this year. JASMYN Founder and CEO Cindy Watson was awarded the 2025 Humanitarian Award and Mayor Donna Deegan was named the Best Local Straight Ally. Riverside’s Hair Peace and owner, Bruce Musser won Best Local Hair Salon and Best LGBTQ+ Small Business Owner, respectively. The Florida Theatre was named Best Local Music/Performing Art Venue and Avondale’s Biscottis was awarded the Best Local Restaurant.

For a full list of award winners and honorees, visit www.residentnews.net

Looking Through the Decades for SJEDS’ Milestone Anniversaries

San Jose Episcopal Day School celebrated a pair of milestone anniversaries at the San Jose Episcopal Day School Through the Decades Gala on Saturday, March 1. Held at the San Jose Country Club, the evening recognized the 75th anniversary for the school and the centennial anniversary for the property. Guests not only had the opportunity to celebrate SJED’s legacy but they also had opportunities to continue supporting its students and programs with live and silent auctions. The Outer Loop provided the tunes for the evening’s festivities and guests enjoyed gourmet food and drinks.

Life Changing Results

“YOU CAN’T STOP THE WAVES, BUT YOU

“YOU CAN’T STOP THE WAVES, BUT YOU

TO SURF.”

TO SURF.”

India and Jamaal Powell with Shelly and Graham Jones Scott and Elizabeth Brannock

Kaitlyn and Blake Weatherly with Jim and April Wellman

Bishop Kenny High School students earned top honors at this year’s Northeast Florida Regional Science and Engineering Fair, bringing home nine place awards and nine special awards. NEFRSEF was held on Tuesday, Feb. 11. The following month, Christopher Trinidad, Joshua Inocencio and Viktoriia

Riverside Presbyterian Day School sixth grade students visited the nation’s capital for the annual RPDS sixth grade trip to Washington, D.C. in February.

This yearly excursion serves as a “capstone experience” for the students and during this year’s trip, students had the opportunity to meet Florida Congressman John Rutherford at the Capitol Building and be part of the iconic changing of the guard ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery by laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Galushchak advanced to the Florida State Science and Engineering Fair, March 25 to 27, to showcase their projects. Next month, freshman Trinidad will go on to represent NEFRSEF at the International Science and Engineering Fair with his project “Emotion Prediction and Virtual Reality AI Model.”

Riverside Presbyterian Sixth Graders Visit Washington, D.C. Bolles Honors the Bard Engineering Top Honors

tribute

annual

Festivities were held at the Bolles’ Bartram Campus, where House Capulet and House Montague faced off in spirited competitions. The day began with theatrical performances from some of the classics like “Romeo and Juliet” and “Macbeth” and included musical performances, trivia and a Shakespeare insult game show.

Shakespeare Day was organized by Middle School English teachers Deborah Carney, Tim Crete and Morgan Teichert with Carney sharing details about her trip to Shakespeare-focused time in Verona, Italy, last summer, a trip funded by her Ottenstroer Fellowship.

Eighth grade students paid

to The Bard at The Bolles School’s

Shakespeare Day.

The Riverside Presbyterian Day School Sixth Grade Class in Washington, D.C.

Students perform scenes from Shakespeare classics at the Bartram Campus for Shakespeare Day.

Period costumes add authenticity to the day’s events for Shakespeare Day.

The projects presented by Bishop Kenny students Christopher Trinidad, Viktoriia Galushchak and Joshua Inocencio advance them to the Florida State Science and Engineering Fair, with Trinidad continuing on the International Science and Engineering Fair.

Wolfpack Prowess Hits High Notes at Music Performance Assessments

The Wolfpack Wind Ensemble brought home straight superiors for the Samuel Wolfson School for Advanced Studies at the Florida School Music Association’s District 17 Music Performance Assessments – a first since the 1990s.

The MPA was held at Mandarin High School on March 7 and 8.

The Wolfpack’s prowess continued at the State Solo and Ensemble Festival March 17 to 18 at Matanzas High School with senior Sean Thompson earning one superior and two excellent ratings, resulting in an overall excellent rating. Additionally, junior Aidan Lannen earned an overall superior rating with two superiors and one excellent and junior Russell Sefton straight superiors for a superior rating.

At Tocoi Creek High School, both Bella Voce and the Concert Chorus earned superior ratings in sight-reading and performance, with the Bel Canto Choir earning straight excellent ratings in the same categories and the Chamber Choir excelling with its overall excellent rating.

CAP String Orchestra Plucks Highest Honors

The Cathedral Arts Project String Orchestra received the Best Overall Orchestra award and a superior rating for its performances at Orlando’s Music in the Parks.

The two-day festival was held March 14 and 15 at Universal Studios Orlando. This was CAPSO’s first year participating in the competition. Its group performed pieces from Mozart’s “Don Giovanni” and Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Capriccio Espagnol” at Celebration High School on March 15. An awards ceremony was held at Universal City Walk later that same day.

Directed by CAP String Teaching Artist Fellow Joshua Stone, CAPSO “is an ensemble comprised of current and former CAP string students in grades 4-12 who collaborate, perform and further their understanding of classical and contemporary music. Performance opportunities are provided throughout the year for the full orchestra, as well as smaller chamber ensembles.”

Celebrity Guests and Epic Cosplay at Collective Con 2025

The 11th annual Collective Con returned to Jacksonville for a three-day event at the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center March 14 to 16.

Guests immersed themselves in all things anime, fantasy and science fiction, with some taking the opportunity to cosplay as their favorite characters from various fandoms from movies, television shows, comics, manga, book series and beyond.

The weekend also featured various events, including fan panels, costume contests, video game tournaments and opportunities for guests to meet and interact with several voice actors and celebrity guests, including Ron Perlman, Giancarlo Esposito, Famke Janssen and more.

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.

Members of the 501st Legion, Rebel Legion, Mandalorian Mercs and Droid Builders pose with Landon and Lily L.

The Wolfpack Wind Ensemble scores straight superiors at the District 17 Music Performance Assessments.

The Cathedral Arts Project String Orchestra celebrates top honors at the Music in the Parks festival in Orlando.

Bolles Student-athlete Launches Nonprofit

Thoughtful program ensures foster kids ‘get in the game’

Jai Patel, a sophomore basketball athlete and community service entrepreneur at The Bolles School, recalls the genesis of his nonprofit organization, Foster Athletic Network, Inc. (FAN), with passion.

“While I was playing on my AAU basketball team, I noticed there were always kids there with my coach who were never invited to play with the team – I wondered why and asked my coach about it,” Jai said. He learned the coach and his family were providing foster care for these young people and due to limited funding for extracurricular activities, they were not able to participate in athletic leagues. This revelation was sad and eye-opening for Patel, who knew how transformational sports had been to his own personal growth and sense of community. “They were missing out on invaluable experiences, and I wanted to change that – I was compelled to take action.”

Soon thereafter, Jai founded FAN to help empower kids in the local foster care system to “chase their dreams and enjoy the benefits of being on a team – just like I have the opportunity,” he said.

The organization is dedicated to an important mission: to provide local foster children with more opportunities for physical activity, mentorship and personal development. The nonprofit organization aims to create a nurturing and inclusive environment for athletics where every child – regardless of their background – can discover their potential and develop essential life skills.

Jai, who lives with his parents and brother in Jacksonville’s San Marco neighborhood, said his organization will help meet a tremendous demand in Jacksonville and surrounding counties. Recent statistics show nearly 22,500 children were in Florida foster care programs, including nearly 1,000 in Duval County.

“There are so many kids who love sports but don’t have access to the necessary resources,” Jai said. “Foster Athletic Network is dedicated to providing mentorship, equipment and opportunities to these young athletes to ensure financial constraints and lack of support don’t hinder their potential.”

Jai expects to host his first fundraising and awareness event this May during National Foster Week.

“I want to grow Foster Athletic Network into a well-established organization that supports young athletes at every level and over time, I hope to collaborate with schools, businesses, and professional athletes to expand its impact,” said Jai, who is looking to build strategic partnerships that will inspire community engagement and more robust sports programs for foster children. “Too many foster kids face barriers that prevent them from joining a team, attending camp, or simply playing the game. Through the Foster Athletic Network, we will raise funds to ensure these kids have the opportunities they deserve – opportunities to build confidence, form lasting friendships and

HELP KIDS HEAL

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You can make an immediate impact for local children who have been abused or neglected by giving to Daniel during Child Abuse Prevention Month. Our agency has spent 140 years helping children heal and create brighter futures.

YOUR DONATION CAN supply counseling for abused children connect neglected children with foster families provide homeless teens with shelter and support strengthen and reunify high-risk families

discover their inner strength.”

Jai wants to change the narrative of seeing foster children at sports practice. Instead of being sidelined, he hopes FAN will get them out on the court, field, pool or course where they belong. Raising awareness and funds to pay for it all is his winning strategy. He is building mission and momentum for a winning season this spring.

Jai is asking supporters to donate funds to the organization, volunteer to be a coach, mentor or event organizer, become a business or community partner via sponsorships and facility use and to simply spread the word about how Foster Athletic Network can change young lives in Jacksonville.

For Jai, it’s personal.

And, with FAN’s new 501(c) (3) federal tax-exempt status, donors can deduct their contributions after the IRS validated the charity Feb. 19, 2025.

“I want to create something that allows me to combine my passion for sports and entrepreneurship,” said Jai, who plans to pursue an education and career in business and continue his passion for sports. “My goal is to build something that not only supports me but also creates opportunities for others, especially young athletes who need guidance and resources to succeed.”

For more information on the Foster Athletic Network, Inc. (FAN), visit fosterathleticnetwork.com

Jai Patel

Marcia Ruth Hodgson IN MEMORIAM

April 15, 1956 - February 23, 2025

Marcia Hodgson lived an invested life, putting her time, her effort and “her whole heart into everything she did,” said Hillary Hodgson, her youngest daughter.

Marcia Ruth Murphy was born on April 15, 1956, to Christian Scientist parents in Wellesley, Massachusetts. Perhaps it was as an only child that she grew up to be conscientious, structured and an overachiever. At age 14, Marcia was enrolled at Principia School, a Christian Science boarding school in the St. Louis area in Missouri. Perhaps it was there that she was taught to live with purpose.

Following high school, Marcia attended Michigan State University, where she earned an associate’s degree in political science, then George Washington University, from which she graduated with Bachelor of Science degrees in political science and journalism. Thirty years later, Marcia received a creative writing certificate from Washington University and then a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from the University of Tampa in 2015.

Celebrate Easter at the Cathedral

Easter Services

Sunday, April 20

6 a.m., 9 a.m. and 11:15 a.m.

Cathedral Choir sings at all services. Cathedral Brass at 9 and 11:15 a.m.

Easter Egg Hunt

Interior Gardens

10:15 a.m.

A photographer will be available to take family photos from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m.

Jazz in the Garden

Friday, April 25

5:30 – 7 p.m.

Wine and Charcuterie

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Inquisitive is an understatement when describing the lifelong journalist. Over a 43-year span, from 1978 to 2021, Marcia worked for daily and weekly newspapers in Massachusetts, Alaska, Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Florida, where she worked for The Beaches Leader (19982000) and The Resident Community News Group (2015-2021).

While Marcia had a variety of news beats, including sports, society and news, it was in real estate news that she really shone. Shortly after joining Resident News in spring 2015, Marcia took on an assignment to share with readers the renovation of the Lane-Towers mansion in Avondale. The project was massive and so was the story, stretching over several issues of the community newspaper.

She also became good friends with the home’s owners, as she did with most of her story subjects.

“She was a true-blue person, a very sincere, thorough person, who really cared about everybody,” said Hillary. “Her relationships were authentic. She would put her whole heart into everything she did and into everyone who became a friend.”

Kristanna Barnes first met Marcia at a meeting about Village 2 Village, an aging in place concept. “A group of us formed a committee to look into the possibility of starting the program in the San Marco area

My Choice Today

C.C. Snowden

I choose to see the silver lining. I choose to smile and stop my whining. I choose to breathe and bite my tongue. I choose to believe peace is how it’s won. I choose to make a brand new start.

I choose to have a more loving heart. And if today should end in sorrow, I will choose these things again tomorrow.

there was no question that she was the perfect candidate for the position of communications director and senior writer and editor. “She was a dedicated professional and a tremendous asset to the NEFAR family. Her passion for storytelling and commitment to excellence left a lasting impact on our organization, and she will be deeply missed,” said NEFAR CEO Glenn East on the NEFAR website.

“Marcia was someone who gave everything – her time, her energy, her expertise – to those around her. She had a heart for helping others, even when it meant putting herself second. That was just who she was,” said longtime colleague, Josh Garrett, who first worked with

and Marcia followed our progress,” said Kristanna. “Over the years she reached out for information on stories regarding San Marco. She also met my mother, Marjorie Broward, while working on a story about the potential demolition of The Landing and they stayed in touch. Once you meet Marcia, she became a friend who was so positive and upbeat it was always a joy to be around her.”

Echoing those sentiments, another story source, Suzanne Honeycutt, said “Marcia was creative, intelligent, interesting and interested. She adored her daughters, loved her husband. She was humble and a gift to our city.”

Marcia became the Resident’s go-to for “state of the real estate” stories and such was the accuracy and excellence of her reporting that when she interviewed in 2021 with the Northeast Florida Association of Realtors (NEFAR),

as sports editor/town editor, and gave birth to her two daughters, Celia Hope Hodgson (1990) and Hillary Anne Hodgson (1992). By 1998, the Hodgson family had moved to Ponte Vedra, where Marcia was a reporter and photographer for The Beaches Leader.

When her daughters were approaching high school age, Marcia and the girls moved to Missouri in 2003 so they could attend her alma mater, Principia School. During those years, through 2010, Marcia worked at the YMCA of West County as an aquatics specialist. Shortly after leaving Chesterfield, Missouri, and moving back to Florida, in 2013 Marcia contracted colon cancer, thought to be associated with a radioactive hazardous waste dumpsite in that Missouri community.

Marcia at The Resident Community News Group and tipped her off to the position at NEFAR. “We had other applicants, but Marcia was in a league of her own. If this had been a debate, the other candidates would have been packing up before opening statements were finished. Her experience, her media savvy, her ability to tell a story – she had it all.”

When Marcia was 28 and working in the development office at Amherst College, she met Robert Hodgson, who had returned to Amherst in 1984 to earn a Master of Science in accounting. After a whirlwind courtship of two weeks, the couple became engaged and married in Wayland, Massachusetts in September 1984 with Marcia’s cousin, the Rev. Janet Cooper-Nelson, chaplain of Brown University, presiding.

In the early 1990s, Marcia worked at The Milford Cabinet and Wilton Journal,

The Hodgson family lived in Ponte Vedra and joined Trinity Episcopal Church in St. Augustine. In 2022, Robert passed away at age 73. In April 2024, Marcia moved to San Marco Place, thrilled to be living in the neighborhood she had covered extensively as managing editor for the Resident’s San Marco edition.

“Marcia was a cherished member of our team for many years. Her dedication, warmth, and positive spirit touched all of us at the paper. We are grateful for the time we had with her and will always remember her with fondness and gratitude,” said Pamela Williams, publisher of The Resident Community News.

Marcia Ruth Murphy Hodgson is survived by her daughters Celia Hope Hodgson and Hillary Anne Hodgson. Her remains will be interred in the Hodgson family plot at Woodlawn Cemetery, Wellesley, Massachusetts.

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