Metro Jacksonville

Jacksonville has 14 different city districts in Duval.  Each one of those districts has a single elected legislator/council member that represents them.  This year the election will have 11 open district seats which can be voted on.  Three of the districts have already been decided with those district candidates being unopposed.  The automatically get the open seat.  Those districts are District 5 seat goes to Lori Boyer, District 11 to Danny Becton and District 13 to Bill Guilliford.

A person can only vote for one district seat and they must live in that district.  To find out what district you are in you can call the SOE office at 904 630-1414 or click this link:  http://www.duvalelections.com/Voter-Information/Precinct-Finder.aspx 

Remember this election is "unitary" which means it will not be decided based upon party affiliation. When voting for a district seat you will be looking for the individual who you best think will best represent the people and issues in your district, promote it's needs and vote accordingly on legislation.  What you should also keep in mind and many don't think about or understand is that all seats on council eventually vote on all legislation so your council member will be voting on issues that impact the entire community, like the HRO legislation etc.  Keep this in mind when deciding on who gets your vote.  :)

District 1 Council Race 2015

The candidates are:

Mike Anania   (R)
Eddie Christian (R)
Joyce Morgan  (D)
Melody Shacter (D)



SOE Bio for Mike Arania:


Mike Anania is A 30yr resident of Arlington and a small business owner. The Navy brought Mike here in 1979 and served aboard the Guided Missile Cruiser USS Dale CG-19. His love and commitment to Jacksonville's Navy community has lead him to become a board member and significant contributor to the Jacksonville Historical Naval Ship Museum. He supports their effort to bring the Charles F. Adams DDG-2 to Jacksonville's downtown as the first Naval Warship Museum in Florida.

He fell in love with Jacksonville and stayed. Mike & his wife Patti, a graduate of Terry Parker High have successfully operated CAM Automotive on Arlington Rd since 1992. Mike serves on the Duval County Republican Executive Committee and is a recent graduate of the Regional Political Leadership Institute, an intense training program sponsored by the Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce. In addition to his political involvement, Mike is also an active member of his community as the President of Arlington Business Society. He serves on the Greater Arlington/Beaches Citizen Planning Advisory Council (CPAC) since 2007 and in 2014 was elected its Chairman. From 2008-2010 he served on the 2030 Comprehensive Plan's Community Vision Steering Committee as its Chairman. He also served on the Mobility Plan Task Force that produced the city's Mobility Plan; a fee-assessment system that ensures that transportation infrastructure is funded by developers, not taxpayers.

Mike Anania's Vision for Arlington

"Arlington must receive its fair share of the city's resources. Especially in the areas of public safety,crime prevention, parks and libraries, the residents of Arlington need to see that the City is paying attention."
Arlington also has a unique opportunity to direct its own destiny by restoring the kind of healthy business environment that's attractive to those who would live in the area. "Jacksonville University under it new President, Tim Cost, is working on a privately funded effort to restore the commercial corridor along Merrill Road and portions of University Blvd." Mike Anania is serving on the Project Dolphin Task Force that is the city's portion of this initiative. Together with the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, the Office of Economic Development,the Planning Dept, the Public Works Dept, JEA and JU this project will help create crime-free multi-family housing, business friendly walkable corridors. "We need to support this effort as we encourage quality redevelopment throughout Arlington. It is the key to a revitalized Arlington. A strong business community is the cornerstone to economic prosperity." It will make Arlington better because it will make our neighborhoods better.




SOE bio for Eddie Christian:

As a second generation native of Jacksonville, I am passionate about our city and the communities in District 1.

Raised on the Southside, I attended public high school and then graduated from FJC, UNF and lastly JU with a degree in Educational Leadership. I have worked in the public sector most of my life and have managed multi-million dollar budgets. This, I believe, will allow me to be a mindful leader of our city and community.

My initial concerns center on improved safety and reducing the crime and violence that plague our area. Beautification of District 1 and Jacksonville as a whole is also a priority. I will work to ensure District 1 gets the needed support and services from the City to fight the blight and abandonment of property. As your elected official, I will host meetings that bring the many communities together to address all the issues and share ideas.
My wife and I have lived in Arlington for 30 years and are proud to have raised our 5 children in this area. When elected, I promise to represent you and to serve with integrity and commitment. I ask for your vote on Election Day and your support.




SOE bio for Joyce Morgan:

Growing up in a military family, Joyce Morgan learned the value of family and service to the community at an early age. She was greatly influenced by her parents, an Army Sergeant father who served in Korea and two stints in Vietnam and a mother that juggled her career at the Army Air Force Exchange Service while raising four children. Born in Louisiana, Joyce's family relocated many times to Alabama, Georgia and abroad in Bad Kreuznach, Germany. These multicultural living experiences enabled her to develop into a hard worker, sensitive to the growing diversity of our community and committed to becoming a strong advocate addressing the most important issues facing the Arlington area today.

Joyce has lived in Jacksonville for the past 25 years and has been actively involved in the Arlington area for over 15 years. She served as Ft. Caroline Elementary PTA President, Board Member of the Ft. Caroline Elementary School SAC, and Chairperson of the Greater Arlington Relay for Life. An innovator and visionary, Joyce developed and implemented Life Skills workshops for the PACE Center for Girls and organized Women Business Owners events at Jacksonville University's Davis School of Business.

A former news anchor for WJXT-TV 4, Joyce focused on education, health and community reporting. During her more than 25 years of reporting local and national news, and interviewing local, national and international personalities, she sharpened her knowledge and understanding of what is essential to a strong community, such as Arlington. This knowledge and experience defines her campaign focus: Economic Development, Community Safety and Education. She is a free lance media and community outreach consultant for the North Florida Transportation Planning Organization which provides Joyce greater engagement with the public, observing firsthand the challenges in our communities and the need for effective voices in City Council. She is also a PR Director for a family fast food franchise.

Joyce is married to Richard Danford Jr. and they have three children: Faith, Morgan and Richard III. They are members of Bethel Baptist Institutional Church.

Joyce Morgan is a consensus builder, and a dedicated and caring citizen of Jacksonville, who will be the voice of commitment and a servant for the citizens of District 1.




SOE bio for Melody Shacter:

Melody Shacter is a longtime Arlington resident with extensive, successful business and community service experience. Having owned and led businesses in the medical and homebuilding industries, Melody is ready to bring her strong leadership style to Jacksonville's City Council.

As an entrepreneur, Melody founded Home Companion, Inc. in 1988, a company providing in-home nursing, homemaker and childcare services. She sold the company to Mayo Clinic in 1998 and remained as its director until 2002. She then joined her husband David at the company he founded in 1993, Harmony Homes of North Florida. While Melody served as chief operating officer Harmony Homes built more than 1,200 homes in Jacksonville. The company was eventually sold to Drees Homes in 2005.

Melody was then named president of Drees Homes. When the need to homeschool her youngest son arose, she left the business world to devote eight years to home and community involvement. In 2013, Melody and her husband David founded a new homebuilding company called TerraWise Homes, Inc. Melody is now vice president of TerraWise Homes.

Melody has served tirelessly in our community volunteering as a support member, chair and board member for many nonprofit organizations including:

- Served as host mother to seven International Rotary students
- Past board member, membership chair, treasurer, and president of the foundation of her church
- Learn-to-Read mentor and teacher
- Civitan Club member
- Past Chair of Elder Care Task Force
- Past board member, Arlington Community Garden

She currently serves as:

- Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens Development Committee member
- North Florida Builders Association member
- Steering Committee of the Woman's Giving Alliance, co-chair of both the Education Committee and Diversity Task Force
- Board of Trustees, Finance Committee member, Treasurer and Foundation board member of WJCT
- Board Member of Beautiful Jacksonville
- Arlington Newcomers Club member
- Clifton Civic Association Representative for the Greater Arlington/Beaches Citizens Planning and Advisory Council
- Founding member of The Shacter Family Foundation
-Recipient of Rotary International's Paul Harris Award

Education:
Bachelors Degree (Business, Sociology and History)
Masters Degree (MBA)

Read more about Melody at VoteShacter.com

District 2 Council Race 2015

The candidates are:

Jack Daniels   (R)
Al Ferraro       (R)
Lisa King        (D)


SOE Bio for Jack Daniels:


Born into an honest, hardworking family with a strong work ethic, I ran a lawn service business while attending high-school. In college, I earned a master's degree in administration while a full time employee in finance. With a keen mind for finances, I later started and administered a financial services business serving thousands of people statewide.
So I understand finances. I know that whether you are administering the finances of your family or business, you need to be a good steward of your finances and set priorities. I believe it's past time the City is held accountable to be the best possible steward of our tax dollars. I will stop the city's wasteful spending.
I'm a man of faith and family. I often do volunteering in our neighborhoods for charities.



SOE Bio for Al Ferraro:

None provided



SOE Bio for Lisa King:


Lisa King is a native of Jacksonville, educated in Jacksonville Public Schools. She graduated from Stetson University with a degree in Political Science in 1984. Lisa has been a small business leader for over 22 years, advising cities and counties throughout Florida on program development and working in real estate development in downtown Jacksonville, Gainesville and Sarasota. In 2014, she was awarded as a "Woman of Influence" by the Jacksonville Business Journal for small business leadership and community service.

She and her husband settled their family on Heckscher Drive in 1998, drawn to the natural beauty of the area and the warmth of its people. Husband John is a retired business manager. Lisa is a proud Navy mom. Son, Ian, a Stanton and UF graduate, is a Navy LTJG stationed at King's Bay. He and wife Brittany, a public school teacher, welcomed Lisa's first grandchild, Aubrey, in June of 2014. They recently purchased a home in District 2. Daughter Kelsey, is a Paxon and FSCJ nursing school graduate, and a former lifeguard at Huguenot Park. Daughter Callan is a student at Stanton.

Lisa has served her community throughout her life. Most recently she established the Heckscher Drive Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and serves as Incident Commander. CERT teams assist our firefighters in disaster response, particularly important in our coastal community. She is a ferry ambassador, volunteering to greet ferry riders on the weekend, and has served as Vice President of Friends of the St. Johns River Ferry for 15 years. She has served on the Vestry of St. George Episcopal Church and is a Lay Reader and Eucharistic Minister.
Through her involvement with Friends of the St. Johns River Ferry and the Heckscher Drive Community Club she wrote the successful grant applications that funded the Ferry Pavilion building and the Heckscher Drive Town Center.

Lisa was appointed to Jacksonville's Planning Commission in 2012 and was confirmed by an unanimous vote of the Jacksonville City Council. She was elected by her peers on the Commission to serve as its Vice-Chair in 2014. In 2013 she was nominated and confirmed by the City Council to serve on the Jacksonville Housing and Community Development Commission and was elected to serve as Co-Chair.

Lisa King is a leader who understands that real solutions require working together. Because of her leadership and record of service she is endorsed by leaders in both parties.


www.kingforcouncil2.com
Facebook: /kingforcouncil
Twitter: @kingforcouncil2

District 3 Council Race 2015


Candidates are:

Aaron Bowman  (R)
James Nealis      (R)



SOE Bio for Aaron Bowman:


Aaron Bowman, a servant leader to the Jacksonville community and the U.S. Navy, is running for City Council District 3.

Aaron graduated from the United States Naval Academy and began his career as a pilot at Cecil Field in Jacksonville, Fla. He later became Commanding Officer at Naval Station Mayport, the third-largest Naval Station in the United States. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the U.S. Naval Academy and a Masters in Business Administration from Embry-Riddle University. Aaron, his wife Deborah and son Blaise have lived in the Jacksonville area for more than 20 years and currently reside in District 3.

Aaron retired as a Navy Captain with numerous awards, including the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation and Navy Commendation Medal.

Currently, Aaron serves as the JAXUSA Partnership's Senior Vice President of Business Development, working every day to grow Jacksonville's economy. He seeks to recruit jobs to Jacksonville, focusing on aviation, aerospace and advanced manufacturing.

Aaron was appointed by Governor Rick Scott as the Duval County Commissioner of the Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND), charged with the maintenance and management of Florida's Intracoastal Waterway. Aaron is also a commissioner for the St. Johns River Ferry Commission, established to manage the St. Johns River Ferry, helping ensure its operation since October 2012.

Aaron is a proven business and community leader. Aaron's enduring service to the United States Navy, his active role as an appointed commissioner, and his dedication to growing the local economy make him uniquely qualified to represent the people of District 3.



SOE Bio for James Nealis:


District 3 is my home and I will focus on our community.

We must keep our neighborhoods safe by providing our Law Enforcement Officers with the tools they need.

I will strive to resolve this pension dispute.

I will be a representative who listens to our residents about the development needs of our community and protect property values.

I will advocate for improvements to San Pablo Road.

Seeking to get our city's financial house in order, I will encourage job growth through low taxes. Red tape and overbearing regulations stifle economic prosperity. Government overreach does not create jobs, businesses do.

I want Jacksonville to be a better place to start a small business. I believe that government must not encroach upon our constitutional liberties and I will honor our veterans who fought to protect those freedoms we enjoy.

Born in Jacksonville, I graduated from Providence High School and earned my Bachelor's Degree from Vanderbilt University. I am a former Assistant State Attorney.

My fiancée, Jennifer, and I would be honored if you would allow me to be your next District City Council Member. Please vote for James Nealis.           

District 4 Council Race


Candidates are:

Ramon Day   (D)
Fred Engness (R)
Ryan Taylor    (R)
Scott Wilson  (R)


SOE bio for Ramon Day:

None provided.



SOE bio for Fred Engness:

None provided.


SOE bio for Ryan Taylor: 

None provided


SOE bio for Scott Wilson:

None provided

District 6 Race for Council 2015

Candidates are:

Connie Benham  (R)
Matt Schellenberg (R) and Incumbent



SOE bio for Connie Benham:


Cell-904-327-1178
email-conniebenham@gmail.com
Facebook-Connie Benham for Mandarin

Connie grew up and graduated high school in Solon, Ohio, on the eastern side of Cleveland. After graduation she enlisted in the US Navy and took her basic training at Orlando Navy Base, Fl. She attended school in Great Lakes Illinois to become a Mechanical Instrument Specialist to service Destroyers, Fast Frigates and Submarines. Her first assignment lasted four years on the USS Sierra AD 18, home ported in Charleston, S.C., then one year as Shore Intermediate Maintenance Activity (SIMA) at Charleston Navy Base. Connie's duties included cost analysis, procurement, inventory control, warehousing, distribution, maintenance and repairs of special instrumentation and supplies as well as supervision of junior personnel. During this period Connie learned that disciplined attention to detail is a must for a job well done.

In all, Connie served five years in the US Navy, was promoted to the rank of Second Class Instrument Specialist (E5), received the Navy Good Conduct Medal, was selected as Sailor of the Quarter over 500 other sailors, selected as female Athlete of the Year from SIMA Charleston and nominated as Athlete of the Year, and still found the time to attend classes at Trident Technical College to study Business Management. She was Honorably Discharged in April of 1990.

While in the Navy Connie met and married Charles Benham, US Navy Chief DC (Ret). After her tour of duty they moved to Jacksonville and bought a house in Mandarin. Connie and Charles have been married for twenty seven years. They have two children: A son, Colton, 18 years old, just graduated from Mandarin High and enlisted in the Navy, and a daughter Cala, 14 years old who is entering ninth grade at Mandarin High.

Connie has worked in the hospitality industry at Deerwood Country Club and Americas Best Inns, rising to the level of Assistant Manager. She also worked at United Parcel Service for more than five years. When her children came along she became a full time stay at home mom, but occasionally helping UPS as a seasonal holiday helper. During these years she also trained to become a Second Degree Black Belt at Paks Karate School in Mandarin where she was also chosen to be the lead S.T.O.R.M. Mom (Support Team of Role Models).

Connie became a member of the Mandarin YMCA soon after her daughter was born. Membership led to becoming a volunteer. Connie spent numerous hours in this service role but is most proud of improving and developing much of the landscape there and at the Dupont YMCA. She donated plants and approached area businesses to contribute items at low or no cost for the YMCA improvements. Through her efforts Connie was invited and accepted an invitation to become a Board Member and served for 8 years.
She has received many awards for her work. Today she remains an avid member and an "on call" volunteer.

Connie was instrumental in saving four area high school JROTC programs in 2011 acquiring help from Mayor Brown and Congressman Crenshaw. She received three Distinguished Service Awards for her past efforts and to this day remains an activist for Duval County JROTC programs and instructors. Never idle for too long in May, 2012 Connie became a volunteer for Betty Griffin House Thrift Store and remains so today.

Connie became involved in politics 4 years ago when the council was raising taxes. During her second address to City Council she promised to be a pebble in their shoe and has remained respectfully so ever since that time. She stays abreast of agendas, Charter Law and City Ordinances along with Florida Statutes. Mentored by Tony Bates, she has learned many of the ins and outs of local politics. She works tirelessly on behalf of the community and her work has already benefited the taxpayer. Connie is a regular at city hall meetings in all facets of the government and can proudly say she missed only 8 council meetings in the last 4 years. Connie's accomplishments are wins for the whole community and she is ready to do more from the other side of the podium.

Connie's dedication to Family and Community service is underpinned by her faith in God and the teachings of the Bible. She and her husband have been members of Christ's Church of Mandarin for more than twenty years where she taught Sunday School classes for about ten years. Foremost in Connie's heart and mind is being a woman of God.



SOE bio for Matt Schellenberg:


Councilman Matt Schellenberg has represented Mandarin on Jacksonville's City Council since July, 2011. He has been a member of many standing Committees and is currently Vice-Chair of the Land Use and Zoning Committee, a member of the Finance Committee, and a member of the Transportation, Energy, and Utilities Committee. He also acts as the Council's Liaison to the Jacksonville Port Authority, sits on the board of the Northeast Florida Regional Council, is the Chair of the Tower Review Committee, represents Duval County as a member of the Florida Association of Counties and the Florida League of Cities, is a member of the Special Budget Analysis Committee, and is the Chair of the Special Committee on Utilizing UF Health as a Healthcare Delivery Organization.

Born on December 2nd, 1952, in Washington D.C., Matthew "Matt" M. Schellenberg was the second of eleven children born to Bob & Kate Schellenberg. The family moved to Jacksonville in 1962, where Matt attended San Jose Catholic School and Bishop Kenny High School. After obtaining a golf scholarship, Matt attended St. Johns River Community College, and went on to graduate from the University of Florida with a B.S. in Political Science in 1975.

After college, Matt worked as an investment advisor before buying Movers Claim Services (MCS) in 1991. MCS handles claims for insurance companies throughout Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia, and specializes in furniture refinishing and repairs for corporations and private individuals.

Matt has two children. His son Andrew graduated from FSU with a Masters Degree in Finance, and his daughter Perri is currently attending FSU.

Matt has been involved in a number of charitable and civic organizations, as well as been a member and Chairman of numerous local, community boards.

• Bishop Kenny Finance Committee Member for 18 years - Chairman for 6 years
• Bishop Kenny Advisory Board Chairman for 5 years
• San Jose Country Club Board Member from 1987-1990 and 2002-2005
• Keep Jacksonville Beautiful Member & Chairman
• Jacksonville Jaguar Honor Row Committee Member for 17 years
• Greenscape Board Member from 1984-1987
• JCCI Member
• "Paint the Town" Participant for 9 years
• Volunteer YMCA basketball coach
• Bishop Kenny assistant golf coach for 12 years
• St. Pius Catholic School volunteer tutor for 2 years
• Started a golf program for under-privileged students at St. Pius Catholic School

District 7 Race for Council 2015

Candidates are:

Niki Brunson  (NPA)
James Eddy   (D)
Donald Foy    (D)
Reggie Gaffney (D)
Mark A. McCullough Sr. (D)
Wendell Sams (D)
Sirretta Williams (D)
George A. Spencer (D)


SOE bio for Niki Brunson:

Only info provided was:
318 West 11th St.
Jacksonville, FL 32206
904-450-2144
nikibrunson318@comcast.net



SOE bio for James Eddy:


Born: On November 23, 1970 in New Martinsville, West Virginia
Grew up: Raised in Reader West Virginia but I grew up on a small piece of farm land in Marietta , Ohio.
Parents: Shirley Furler and Russ Furler (step Father) and Jim Eddy (father).
Siblings: Rebecca Jones, Mitch Eddy and Debbie Gessel.
High School: Marietta Sr. High
College: The University of Akron AA in Restaurant Management and Culinary Art

Jobs: The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Restaurant Manager For the past 12 years April 2001-present.

Volunteerism:
President and Co-Founder Rainbow House LGBT Community Center Jan 2011 to Jan 2013

President and Elf of Holiday Helpers and organization that give Christmas and the Holidays to kids affected and infected with HIV/AIDS 2004-Present President 2009-2010 Vice President 2008

Board and member of River City Pride : board 2009 member 2009-2012

Active Member PFLAG 2013 been a member from 2010- Present

Active in JCCI Jax 2025

Faith: In my youth was a member of Hills United Methodist Church Marietta Ohio. My family is Church of Christ. Faith is a very important part of my life but not currently an active member of a church.

please visit my web site at www.eddy4dist7.com you can email me at eddy4dist7@gmail.com

Phone 1-904-729-5736
Address
222 Lawton Ave
Jacksonville, Fl 32208


SOE Bio for Donald Foy:

None provided



SOE bio for Reggie Gaffney:

None provided



SOE bio for  Mark McCullough:

None provided




SOE bio for Wendell Sams:

I was born in Cleveland, Ohio on July 26, 1964 and grew up in Folsom, Louisiana. Upon graduating from Mandeville High School, I enrolled in the United States Army, and served honorably on both Active and Reserve Duty status from 1987 to 2003, as a Cannon Crewman and a Military Police Officer.
I was called to preach Gospel Ministry at the early age of 14 and called to Pastor Hatton Pond Baptist Church in Stuarts Draft, Virginia in 1995. I worked as a Supervisor of Security for the Am-South Banks in New Orleans, Louisiana during the Katrina disaster. In 2004 and later started my own business, formally known as W.S. & D. Line Painting Services, while upholding key roles as President of Chandler Middle School's PTA, John Marshall High School's PTSA, and Vice President of Henderson Middle School's PTA.
I later obtained my Master's Degree in Theology from the Spirit of Truth Institute in Richmond, Virginia all while raising my two youngest daughters as a strong single parent. In December of 2010 I relocated to Jacksonville, Florida where I'm currently a Member and Associate Minister of the Friendship Missionary Baptist Church Pastored by the Rev. Dr. A. D. Denard.
Married to the lovely Mrs. Lisa Michelle Sams, who was born and raised here in Jacksonville, Florida, I Coach boxing at P.A.L. on canal street, I am a member of the Masonic Order and former member of the Fraternal Order of Police.

Campaign Platform

•   Bring new businesses to the 7th District in which will create more competitive careers.
•   Develop strategic methods on lowering taxes.
•   Putting our Uniform Police Officers, Fire fighters and School Teachers back to work.
•   Establishing accountability for the safety of our home businesses and vacant properties as well as positions held.
•   Making sure that our children, seniors, and disabled veterans are cared for.
•   Listening to the concerns, ideas, and visions of the residents in our District.
•   Working hand and hand with communities and leaders to restore and or rebuild our neighborhoods and increase the property value in and around our district.
•   Work jointly with other members of the council to restructure low-income housing.
Stand for equality in our district as well as in our city.



SOE bio for Sirretta Williams:


Dr. Sirretta L. Williams has lived most of her life and attended public schools in Jacksonville. She has experienced the trials of living in public housing and having to work two jobs to sustain her children through secondary education. Throughout her struggle, grace, mercy and perseverance enabled her to overcome the odds. She has spent her life's work in the heart-felt service to others, feeding the hungry and providing assistance to those in need. As your District 7 City Council representative her unwavering service will continue.
Dr. Sirretta L. Williams attended Jacksonville's Theological Seminary where she earned a Doctorate in Christian Psychology. She also served as a college professor and obtained a license and certification as a counselor. Serving as a mentor and substitute teacher with the Duval County School Board for 15 years and a mental health and drug assessment counselor for the Juvenile Detention Center, heightened her awareness of the need and importance for effectual education and guidance for our youth. Incidentally, a family tragedy led Dr. Williams to author a book and found Breaking the Silence Jacksonville, or BTSJ, a not-for-profit organization, dedicated to educating, increasing public awareness and providing support for sexually abused youth and their families. Subsequently, she was presented with a key to the city by the Mayor of Columbus Georgia for her efforts to raise money and awareness for not-for-profit organizations that provided similar support. Dr. Williams also served as National Chaplain of the NFL moms, providing support through her ministerial duties and uplifting literature, in line with her present pastoral duties as Senior Pastor of Lion of the Tribe of Judah. As overseer of the refurbished Joseph Lee Community Center in the heart of District 7 on Jacksonville's Northside, Dr. Williams, along with other volunteers, provide a haven for youth to congregate after school. Being mother to two wonderful children, Laveranues and Rashetta, as well as grandmother to seven precious grandchildren is as equally fulfilling as her many accomplishments.
Dr. Williams' primary goals for District 7 are to raise the bar on education, curtail the crime rate by initiating camera installments, increase economic development, initiate horticulture for our seniors, formulate business-to-business partnerships, repair and improve road conditions by widening streets for allowance of emergency vehicles, In turn these initiatives, once fulfilled, will increase job opportunities and encourage higher wages, raise property values and revitalize and strengthen the infrastructure of District 7 in its entirety.
A candidate that emulates you, the people of district 7, understands how important it is to make our neighborhoods safer for our families and schools better for our children; which in turn improves the quality of life for all of us in District 7. Dr. Williams desire to represent District 7 is not for personal prestige or to build her resume, but to build a safer, thriving, more economically sound environment for her family, her neighbors and yours... because WITH TEAM WORK WE CAN DO ANYTHING!


SOE Bio for George Spencer:


websites: www.georgespencercampaign.com
www.facebook.com/District7VOICE
phone: (904) 859-2373

Family:
George was born in Jacksonville and raised on the Northwest side of town. He is the son of George W. Spencer, Sr. and Americus Spencer. He has three (3) brothers and two (2) sisters who all reside in Jacksonville. George has two (2) sons: Nicholas Jarvell Spencer age 25, and Che' Jordan Spencer age 14. George has a granddaughter: Makayla Spencer age (2).

Education:
George is the product of the Duval County Public School system. After High School, George attended Bethune-Cookman College where he earned an athletic scholarship. He graduated with academic honors with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting. After undergraduate studies, George obtained a Master degree in Accounting Information Systems from Florida State University. George later completed his legal studies at Florida International University earning a Juris Doctorate degree.

Clubs/Organizations/Memberships:
George has been a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc since April of 1989. George has been a member of the International Longshoreman's Association local 1408 labor union for over 25 years. While growing up George was a member of Macedonia Baptist Church and he currently worships at Shiloh Baptist Church.

Licenses/Certifications:
George obtained a license to practice as a public accountant in the State of Florida in 1996. George was admitted to the Florida Bar in 2010. He is currently a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants ("AICPA") and the Florida Bar Association.   

Boards/Commissions/Office:
George currently serves on the Jacksonville Urban League Board of Directors. He also serves as the Treasurer for the Jacksonville Urban League. George serves as a Commissioner on the Taxation Revenue Utilization of Expenditures ("TRUE") Commission.

Professional/Occupation:
George currently works as a Certified Public Accountant for Spencer & Company, P.A. and an attorney for the Law Office of George A. Spencer, P.L. He is also the Director in both companies. He also currently serves as a Consultant/Controller of Voorhees College, Denmark S.C. George served as an adjunct accounting professor at Bethune-Cookman College, Daytona Beach, FL in 2008-2010.

District 8 Race for Council 2015


Candidates are:

James M. Breaker    (D)
Katrina Brown          (D)
Terry L. Fields           (D)
Pat Lockett-Felder    (D)
Lynn Sherman          (D)



SOE Bio for James M. Breaker:



James M. Breaker, Jr
LTC, Retired
U.S. Army

James Breaker has deep roots in Jacksonville's northside community. He is a devoted family man, married for 32 years, the father of five sons and 2 grandchildren. The Breakers are long time active members of St. Pius the V Catholic Church where James serves as an Extra Ordinary Minister of the Eucharist. Breaker attended Jacksonville area schools and is a proud graduate of William M. Raines Class of 1971. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a major in Marketing/Management from the University of North Florida. After graduating from college, he was commissioned as an Officer in the United States Army. He served honorably in "Operation Enduring Freedom" and retired at the rank of LTC after 26 years of service to our country.

Breaker realized that he was needed more in his community and declined several promising job offers. As a Real Estate Developer, he has continued to work in the community by revitalizing commercial and residential property for the beautification and economic development of our community. James is already heavily involved in community and business development plans for District 8 (The District of Soul). He has been a business man in District 8 for over 25 years and a Real Estate Developer for more than 10 years. He has successfully developed real estate in Sweet Water/West Jacksonville, East Jacksonville, New Town as well as the District of Soul. James is an avid lifetime supporter of business development in the northwest quadrant. He is an active Board Member for the Jacksonville Black Chamber of Commerce, First Coast Chapter of the National Business League, District of Soul and Jacksonville Youth Works. He is also a member of the SCLC, Knights of Peter Claver, Knights of Columbus, American Legion Post and the VFW.

Please help Breaker build a better quality of life for the citizens of District 8. It's time for a leader who has a plan to move our community forward. Your support is appreciated.



SOE bio for Katrina Brown:


Katrina Brown serves as the Vice President of Business Development for Basic Products, LLC., a manufacturer and distributor of food products for national retailers. Katrina is also the Managing Partner (Jerome Brown BBQ), a family owned and operated restaurant management company based in Jacksonville, Florida. Katrina has been directly involved in securing a distribution agreement with Sam's Club/Wal-Mart. She also coordinated the financial arrangement of private equity, SBA lending and grant funding to redevelop a large manufacturing facility. Katrina received her B.S. in Finance from Clark Atlanta University.



SOE bio for Terry Fields:


What a great day in the city of Jacksonville and the state of Florida! During my time on the Jacksonville City Council and as a member of the Florida House of Representatives, I was excited to be a part of helping to make Jacksonville a world-class city and Florida one of the best states in America.

As a City Councilman, I had the privilege of being a part of an amazing vision for a new and vibrant downtown, along with creating new jobs with public and private partnerships, Downtown Renaissance, helping to bring our NFL Jacksonville Jaguars football team along with numerous new jobs to our city, supporting the Better Jacksonville Plan, which enhanced the entire city with new roads and a new sports complex.

As a member of the Florida House, we had a $2.5 billion surplus, unprecedented growth and positive change, along with one of America's strongest economies creating new jobs throughout our city and state, and providing greater access for our senior community.

Today, more than ever, I celebrate our city and the state of Florida and its diversity. What we do as a city, state, and nation in the future will speak volumes to the world. I celebrate our accomplishments and develop a renewed responsibility to all citizens. Democracy has come full circle and each generation must define what it means to be an American.

My focus and policies are to help shape our city's future with safer neighborhoods, more public safety, a thrilling downtown, senior citizen incentive programs, more affordable housing, higher quality jobs, and a continuously booming city economy where all of our citizens can truly share in the American Dream.

As a city we must ensure that we have the resources needed to secure our neighborhoods, clean and maintain our environment, and safeguard against natural disasters. I want to help chart an even better course for the citizens of Council District 8 and our great city. I can do this with the help of great friends like you.

Thank you for your help and support, but most of all, thank you for your friendship.

It truly has been a blessing to represent the city of Jacksonville and the state of Florida. May God bless you and God bless America.



SOE bio for Pat Lockett-Felder:


A lifelong resident of Jacksonville, I was first elected to the City Council in 1999 and re-elected in 2003. When I was elected and moved into the City Council District 7 office, I said two things didn't have to change: my motivation and my location.

My greatest passion is community service. I am the former coordinator for the Northside Senior Citizens Committee, a member of the Accreditation Task Force for the Mary L. Singleton Center, and a board member of the Beulah Beal Young Parents Center and River Region Human Services, Inc. I am past president of the City of Jacksonville's Homebound Advisory Board, past vice president of the Sickle Cell Foundation, and I am involved in many other organizations.

I am very proud of the progress I made in my former district as a councilwoman. I served three consecutive years as chairwoman of the Rules Committee which is one of the most powerful committees on the city council. One project I am most proud of is the development of a community pool on the Northside (Harts Road), the first since 1982. I was also responsible for the development of four clinics in total, two of those clinics are located in the Shops of Sherwood. The Elizabeth G. Means Clinic (1155 E. 21st Street), known as one of the top medical clinics in Jacksonville, is one of my most esteemed accomplishments as councilwoman. I am eager to continue my service to the City of Jacksonville when elected for City Council District 8.

STILL WORKING FOR THE PEOPLE!


In the area of housing, I diligently worked to beautifully rebuild Brentwood Housing Complex; one of the oldest in the city. One of the most notable features of Brentwood Housing Complex is its state of the art clinic.

I have been recognized for her contributions to schools and for mentoring youth in the City of Jacksonville. As a graduate of Matthew W. Gilbert Senior High School,I believe that giving back to local schools is a necessity. I have also received several professional management certifications from Edward Waters College and Florida Community College at Jacksonville.

I am a widow with one daughter, Charzetta. I have been a members of New Fountain Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church for 60 years. I am the former chair pro-tempore of the Trustee Board, chair of the Financial Committee and a member of the Usher Board Number One, Lay Organization and the Missionary Society.




SOE bio for Lynn Sherman:


Lynn Sherman serves as Director of Social Responsibility Community Health for Baptist Health where she leads community outreach initiatives that allow her to work to identify the unmet community needs, set priorities and develop strategies to improve the health and quality of life families where we live work and play. It includes developing strategies to meet community health needs, providing community outreach programs with many local non-profits and local churches, youth mentoring, health education and training for heart disease, diabetes, asthma and other disease disparities that plague our community. She has worked in health care for more than 30 years and has spent many of those years as a health educator. Mrs. Sherman is a strong community advocate. Under her leadership, the Tipping the Scale Mentoring Adolescent Advocacy and Intervention Mentoring Program has touched the lives of more than 400 teens. She coordinates the annual Sister to Sister Girls Empowerment Summit, serves on the Department of Health's Diabetes Coalition and Men's Health Summit committee. She serves as a board of director for the Emergency Services and Homeless Coalition of Northeast Florida and Family Support Services of Northeast Florida. She was a recipient of the Community Connections Celebration of Leadership award in 2005, a recipient of the Shirley Anderson's Excellence in Mentoring Award in 2010, Leadership Jacksonville Class of 2011, named one of the Jacksonville Business Journal's Health Care Heroes for 2012.

District 9 Race for Council 2015


Candidates are:

Glorious J. Johnson  (D)
Garrett Dennis           (D)


(http://i.imgur.com/a2ZgP53.jpg)

SOE bio for Glorious Johnson:


Glorious Johnson is a native of Jacksonville, FL and has always called it home. Glorious taught in the Duval County School System. This was a fantastic opportunity for her to help the children of the Jacksonville community learn and grow. For over 35 years, she taught children and adults reading, writing, mathematics, and science in her home. When she finished teaching, she received a very treasured award: an Honorary Life Membership from the Florida Parent/Teacher Association.

Glorious Johnson received her Bachelor Degree from Jacksonville University in Music Education, her first Master Degree was from Nova University in School Administration and Supervision (Fort Lauderdale, FL) and her second Master Degree came from Columbia University/Teachers College (New York City) majoring in Educational Administration/Organizational Leadership. She also received the required courses for certification in Psychology from Edward Waters College to work as a mental health therapist.

Glorious, is the proud mother of one daughter, Stephanie and one grandson. Glorious is a recipient of the Women in Public Policy Fellowship affiliated with the Nelson A. Rockefeller Graduate School of Public Affairs and Policy, University of Albany, State University of New York. She participated and attended hearings, workshops, and seminars on issues related to labor, education, aging, health care, childcare, welfare reform policies and women and minority owned business enterprises.

Glorious Johnson was appointed by the former Governor, Charlie Christ, to serve on the Florida Status of Women Committee. She was also appointed by the former United States Senator, Mel Martinez, to serve on the U.S. Middle District Judicial Nomination Commission.

Glorious is a well-known motivational speaker and former professor. She loves to inspire and encourage individuals and groups to possess the determination and desire in achieving their goals. She has spoken to small and large groups from 1 to 53,000. She has spoken at churches, civic associations, public and private schools, workshops and seminars on issues from education to politics.

While counseling/teaching students at Jones College, Florida Metropolitan University, presently named Everest University, she would say to them that they must remove the words 'can't', 'could have', 'would have', 'should have', from their vocabulary. Many of her former students are now in the fields of medicine, law, education, engineering, financial executives, science, psychology, management, and government. She is writing her book about her experiences in the political world. Hopefully, it will help others who have the desire to be a public servant.

Glorious is the co-founder of The Southeast Region Community Economic Development Association, Inc., which will raise the economic, education, and social levels of the residents of moderate, low-, and very low-income distressed communities of the Southeast Region.

Former and Present Community and Civic Activities:

Office of the Governor, Charlie Christ, appointed Council Member Glorious Johnson to the Florida Commission on the Status of Women
Office of the United State Senate, Senator Mel Martinez, appointed Council Member Glorious Johnson to the United States Middle District of Florida Nomination Committee
Member of the Kappa Delta PI Honor Society in Education
Council President Ronnie Fussell appointed CM Johnson to the Florida League of Cities Board of Directors
Member of the Board of Director of Northeast – Florida League of Cities
Appointed to Jacksonville Historic Naval Ship Association (USS Adam) Naval Ship Museum Board of Directors
Women Elected in Municipal Government
The National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa-Alpha Gamma Chapter (Teachers and Educators)
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
MADDADS – President, Women's Division
Northeast Florida Sickle Cell Association
National Council of Negro Women
Community Council for Sister to Sister Heart Foundation
El-Beth-El Community Development Center
Zone Five ShAdCo Community Organization
The Southeast Region Community Development Center, Co-Founder
Certification

Certificate of Completion for attending the Citizens Police Academy, presented by Sheriff John Rutherford

Like our Facebook page "Elect Glorious Johnson for City Council, District 9" and follow on Twitter "@VoteGlorious15."

Please vote for Glorious Johnson, City Council, District 9.




SOE bio for Dennis Garrett:

None provided.

District 10 Race for Council 2015

Candidates are:

Reginald "Reggie" Brown  (D)  Incumbent
Celestine Mills                    (D)
Joseph L. Willis                  (NPA)



SOE bio for Reginald "Reggie" Brown:

None provided



SOE bio for Celestine Mills:

None provided



SOE bio for Joseph L. Willis:

family legacy of five generations of district 10 residents Mr. Willis has a strong desire to greatly impact his neighborhood and its residents. With a 7 Pillar strategy which focuses on the greatest issues that affect the district; Mr. Willis will put strategize plans into action while effectively serving for his neighborhood and its residents. Mr. Willis seeks to convey his love and genuine care and exceed the expectations of residents, business owners and those with a vested interest in District 10. He seeks office for the sole reason of serving and implementing lasting change with results that will last for years to come.
Professionally, Mr. Willis has been a business owner for 10 years and understands the role and responsibility that entrepreneurs play in the community. In addition to owning businesses, he has a vested interest in community non-profit organizations. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Lady Byrd Live Foundation Inc which supports and brings HIV/AIDS awareness to areas affected by the epidemic. He also serves as the Director of Marketing for the Shoes for Her Organization which addresses the foot care needs of the homeless population in the Greater Jacksonville and Atlanta, GA areas. His grassroots approach and desire to implement change is seen in his business practices as well. He has built several businesses from the ground-up. His most recent business endeavor is the 100% Real Clothing Line. The clothing line started eight years ago and has become a great success. From shirts, to hats, signage and the like; the 100% Real inspirational message has been embraced by the community and gained recognition. Celebrities, Fitness Instructors, Music Artists and others have connected with the authentic message of "keeping it real" and making a positive impact on their areas of influence.

Mr. Willis' educational background following his graduation from Duval County Public Schools includes a degree in Biblical Studies from Truth Bible College. His post-secondary education provided him with the motivation to live life to the fullest. While he faced AML 3 Leukemia at the age of 25 through his faith he was encouraged to live with purpose not only survive, but thrive. Mr. Willis is a Cancer survivor who lives his life with purpose. His Healthcare initiative which is a part of the 7 Pillar Plan connects his purpose, passion and desire for the quality of life to improve for the residence of District 10.
Mr. Willis is a dedicated husband and father. He is married to a Duval County Public Schools' teacher, and has two children; a son, Joseph and a daughter, Cianni. Mr. Willis is very active at his church and has a heart for the elderly and children which is one of the areas of interest on his agenda for the district. Mr. Willis understands the importance of being a voice, influence and change agent to youth. Through his Police and Community Relations initiative he plans to bring connection and awareness that will make the community better. These changes ensure the continuation of the rich legacy of District 10 and provide a foundation for the youth of the area to thrive and build upon.
The "What you talking about Willis?" Campaign is about raising awareness and not only talking, but effectively working toward lasting changes. By utilizing his business knowledge, community notoriety and life lessons to fuel his unyielding plan; Mr. Willis plans to keep the needs of District 10 as his largest priority.
As a part of the City Council Representative for District 10, Mr. Willis can effectively do just that.

Race for District 12 City Council 2015


Candidates are:

Doyle Carter     (R) Incumbent
Abner Davis      (D)



SOE bio for Doyle Carter:

None provided.



SOE bio for Abner Davis:

next City Councilman for Jacksonville's District 12. I'm running because District 12 currently lacks accessible and effective leadership on City Council. I will make accessibility, collaboration and finding smart solutions to District 12's challenges my top priorities, along with smart neighborhood planning, small business development and support, crime reduction and youth development.

As your City Councilman, I promise to bring the same level of passion and hard work to our District and City as I have working in the non-profit and public arenas for the last 10 years. My experience includes building public/private partnerships, community development, the Board of Directors for the Northeast Florida Safety Council and, my greatest achievement, educating and empowering more than 1,500 at-risk teens and young adults to become productive, tax-paying citizens.

District 12 is a wonderful community to live in, and I want to create new opportunities for my children and for yours. Please do not hesitate to contact me with your ideas at voteabnerdavis@gmail.com or on my Cell Phone (904) 566-2278. Together, we can make a meaningful and visible difference for our families, our communities, and our business owners in District 12. I humbly ask for your support and your vote on March 24th.






Memberships / Boards / Commissions
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. (Member)
Taxation Revenue Utilization & Expenditures (Commissioner)
Citizens Planning Advisory Committee (Vice-Chair)
Northeast Florida Safety Council (Board Member)



"The Change We Need, The Voice We Deserve."

www.voteabnerdavis.com
Contact (904) 566-2278

District 14 Race for City Council 2015


Candidates are:

Jim Love    (R)  Incumbent
Jason Tetlak  (D)



SOE bio for Jim Love:


Councilman Jim Love was sworn in as the Councilman for District 14 on July 1, 2011. He has served on many of the standing committees including the Rules Committee and the Public Health and Safety Committee. He currently serves as the Chairman of the Waterways Committee and also serves on the Land Use and Zoning Committee and the Transportation Energy and Utilities Committee. He also serves as the City liaison for Military Affairs and Keep Jacksonville Beautiful and has served as the liaison to the Jacksonville Port Authority and Sister Cities.

Jim has worked hard and continues to work hard to make Jacksonville a better place to live, work and raise a family. In fact on January 23, 2014 Jim received the "Jake Godbold Award" for his work with Keep Jacksonville Beautiful.

Born in Washington, D.C. in 1953, Jim was raised in a military family, living in Kansas City, MO and Orlando, Florida prior to receiving a Navy ROTC Scholarship to attend Auburn University in Alabama.

A graduate of Auburn's School of Mechanical Engineering and the Navy ROTC Program, Jim was accepted into the Navy's Pilot Training Program, and after receiving his wings in 1976, was assigned to fly the A-7E Corsair attack jet at NAS Cecil Field. After two Mediterranean Sea deployments and nearly 300 carrier landings, Jim and his wife, Robin, moved to Beeville, Texas, where Jim was assigned by the Navy to be a jet flight instructor at NAS Chase Field.

After seven years of active duty, Jim moved back to Jacksonville and joined the Naval Air Reserve. Over the next 19 years, Jim commanded units at both NAS Cecil Field and NAS Jacksonville. In 1998, while he commanded NAS Jacksonville 0274, his unit won the Jacksonville Naval Air Reserve Augment Unit of the Year Award. In 2002, Jim completed his required annual active duty in Kuwait as an advisor for Operation "Lucky Sentinel", and in 2003 - retired from the Naval Reserve at the rank of Captain.

In 1982 Jim received his MA in Business Administration from Webster University. In 1983, concurrent with his Naval Reserve duty, Jim started a State Farm Insurance agency in the historic district of Riverside. Jim continues to serve over 2400 families and has twice been selected as the Small Business Leader of the Year for the Downtown Council of the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce.

Jim's community involvement includes:

*Past President, Treasurer, and current board member of the Downtown Council of the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce

*Founding board member and President of the Park and King Area Association

*Past secretary and current member of the Meninak Club

*Past treasurer and current member of Riverside Avondale Preservation

*Past treasurer of the Riverside Fine Arts Association

*Past Chairman of the Deacons and current member of Riverside Baptist Church

*Member of the Society of Financial Service Professionals

*Member of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors

*Life member of the Association of Naval Aviation and the Naval Reserve Association

He is married to the former Robin Lynn Carter and they have three sons: Jimmy, an Emergency Room R.N. at Baptist Hospital; Jason, an attorney for the Public Defender's Office; and Jonathan, a student at the Savanna College of Art and Design working on his masters degree.



SOE bio for Jason Tetlak:


Most of my friends and acquaintances know that I grew up in Northeast Ohio, but not many people know that I was actually born on the small island of Bermuda. My father, a Navy Veteran, was stationed there at the time, and I lived there until a little after my first birthday. My move here to Florida didn't occur until 1996, when I came south to attend Flagler College in St. Augustine. After graduating from Flagler in the spring of 2000, I just couldn't bring myself to leave the fun and sun of North Florida, and decided to make Jacksonville my permanent home.

My family and I now reside in Murray Hill, and I've called the Riverside area home for several years. I love this part of town and look forward to raising my two daughters here. From the historic Avondale neighborhoods to the eclectic Five Points district, we enjoy spending time in the area's many parks and playgrounds, and love discovering new local restaurants.

I've spent most of my life studying art and design, and currently work at a non-profit that focuses on bringing a variety of quality cultural experiences to town. I very much enjoy working for a group that not only provides access to music, theatre, and speaking engagements, but also helps to relieve the financial stress of individuals pursuing post-secondary opportunities at Florida State College at Jacksonville.

My previous work experiences have afforded me the opportunity to teach elementary school students in the Duval Public School System and also work with the Department of Defense on NAS JAX designing publications and support materials to assist in the ongoing War on Terror. Both of these experiences offer me a unique perspective that I am hoping to bring to City Council.

My wife, Alicia, is a returned Peace Corps volunteer who served in Ghana. Upon returning, she completed her Masters in Biology right here at UNF. We were married in April at Treaty Oak downtown and enjoy traveling and exploring Jacksonville's hidden treasures.

EXCELLENT WORK!!!!  Thanks so much for doing this.

QuoteDistrict 7 Race for Council 2015

Candidates are:

Niki Brunson  (NPA)
James Eddy   (D)
Donald Foy    (D)
Reggie Gaffney (D)
Mark A. McCullough Sr. (D)
Wendell Sams (D)
Sirretta Williams (D)

Just sayin'

Quote
State: Reggie Gaffney's nonprofit overbilled Medicaid nearly $1.4 million

By David Bauerlein Thu, May 16, 2013 @ 6:04 pm | updated Fri, May 17, 2013 @ 5:08 am

By David Bauerlein Thu, May 16, 2013 @ 6:04 pm | updated Fri, May 17, 2013 @ 5:08 am
Photo by Jon M. Fletcher/The Times-Union-- 063008-- The Jacksonville Port Authority Board of Directors holds their first meeting since the resignation of Ron Baker. Pictured is Board Member Reginald Gaffney. (The Florida Times-Union, Jon M. Fletcher) The Florida Times-Union
The Florida Times-Union
Photo by Jon M. Fletcher/The Times-Union-- 063008-- The Jacksonville Port Authority Board of Directors holds their first meeting since the resignation of Ron Baker. Pictured is Board Member Reginald Gaffney. (The Florida Times-Union, Jon M. Fletcher)

A nonprofit run by former Jacksonville Port Authority board member Reggie Gaffney overbilled Medicaid by almost $1.4 million, according to an audit by the state Agency for Health Care Administration.

The state is seeking to recoup the money from Community Rehabilitation Center and also assess a $111,000 fine.

Community Rehabilitation Center disputes the state's audit and says it filed for an administrative hearing to make its case.

Gaffney, whose five-year tenure on the port board ended this month after the Florida Senate did not confirm his reappointment, helped found Community Rehabilitation Center in 1993 and serves as executive director.

The nonprofit helps low-income people by providing medical services for mental illness, substance abuse and HIV/AIDS.

Gaffney did not return a call for comment.

An email from his assistant said the organization disagrees with the audit.

Community Rehabilitation Center "requested a formal administrative hearing upon receipt of AHCA's audit advice and we are in the process of actively negotiating resolution of this matter," the email said.

The billing case stems from a routine audit by the Agency for Health Care Administration. Last July, a preliminary audit determined the Medicaid program overpaid Community Rehabilitation Center by almost $2.6 million from September 2008 through February 2011.

After further review, the state put the amount of overpayment at almost $1.4 million "for services that in whole or in part are not covered by Medicaid," according to a letter sent to the nonprofit in March.

The letter says Community Rehabilitation Center failed to adequately document its medical records, lacked a valid plan of care for some home health services, and did not render some medical services that were listed on claims for Medicaid payments.

Agency for Health Care Administration spokeswoman Shelisha Coleman declined comment, saying the agency does not discuss cases in active litigation.

In the 2011-12 fiscal year, the agency conducted 2,842 audits statewide and found overpayments in 1,987 cases, according to the agency's annual report. Those cases totaled $36 million in overpayments, or an average of roughly $18,000 in overbilling per case.

Community Rehabilitation Center has reached settlements with the state in the past over Medicaid audits that found overbilling. The organization agreed to pay about $29,000 in 2003 and paid $390 in 2010, according to state records.

Gaffney's service on the JaxPort board ended when the Senate wrapped up its session without voting to confirm his appointment by Gov. Rick Scott.

david.bauerlein@jacksonville.com, (904) 359-4581

then there was this from 2004, same non-profit:

QuoteCouncil candidate airs errors


By MARY KELLI PALKA
The Times-Union,

A Jacksonville City Council candidate reimbursed the state pay almost $132,000 three years ago after being charged with Medicaid provider fraud.

Now Johnny Gaffney wants to get the word out that he's sorry for his past actions and wants to focus on issues during the upcoming campaign.

Gaffney, 46, was arrested on March 2, 2004, and accused of submitting claims to Florida's Medicaid program for services he didn't perform or that weren't authorized.

The State Attorney's Office dropped the charges a few months later. The court file in the clerk's office didn't provide details about why the charges were dropped. The assistant state attorney involved in the case couldn't be reached for comment.

Gaffney, a Democrat, contacted the Times-Union Tuesday after his legal problems hit at least one local online forum. He said he wanted to make sure the public knew about the charge, and he didn't want his opponents to be able to use the information against him to hurt his campaign.

He's running for District 7, which includes parts of downtown and East Jacksonville. The seat is being vacated by Pat Lockett-Felder.

From Dec. 1, 2002, through Sept. 30, 2003, Gaffney misrepresented himself as a licensed provider of support services for an adult day care program, according to a report by the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration and Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.

The program, Community Resource and Training Services, was located on the Northside and taught life skills to six or seven mentally or physically challenged clients at a time. He repaid Medicaid almost $132,000, according to the state report.

Gaffney said he didn't know he needed a license to seek payment from Medicaid. He said he made a mistake and no fraud was intended.

"I'm very sorry," he said.

Gaffney said he now works as an adjunct professor for the Jacksonville campus of the University of Phoenix.

His brother, Donald Gaffney, is a former city councilman and a state representative who served two years in prison for a 1998 federal mail fraud conviction.

Also in the race for District 7 are Democrats Carolyn Anderson, Kenneth Arnold, Irvin "Pedro" Cohen, Marc A. McCullough and Martha C. Valdes-Pellino, and Republican Gary C. Morrison.

Gaffney had raised about $22,000, more than any of the other candidates, according to his last campaign finance report.

William Sweet, a former candidate for the District 7 seat, dropped out of the race in October after being accused of stealing about $8,700 of taxpayer money while working for the city.

mary.palka@jacksonville.com, (904) 359-4104

I think you need to add George Spenser to District 7.

Thanks for posting all of this, it's important that the public is informed. Anyone interested in learning more about me and my stance on the issues can visit www.tetlak.com or my Facebook page: FB.com/Tetlak2015

Quote from: sheclown on January 29, 2015, 08:41:45 AM

Quote from: Cheshire Cat on January 29, 2015, 12:15:15 AM
District 10 Race for Council 2015

Candidates are:

Reginald "Reggie" Brown  (D)  Incumbent
Celestine Mills                    (D)
Joseph L. Willis                  (NPA)

Just sayin'

Quote
State: Reggie Gaffney's nonprofit overbilled Medicaid nearly $1.4 million

By David Bauerlein Thu, May 16, 2013 @ 6:04 pm | updated Fri, May 17, 2013 @ 5:08 am

By David Bauerlein Thu, May 16, 2013 @ 6:04 pm | updated Fri, May 17, 2013 @ 5:08 am
Photo by Jon M. Fletcher/The Times-Union-- 063008-- The Jacksonville Port Authority Board of Directors holds their first meeting since the resignation of Ron Baker. Pictured is Board Member Reginald Gaffney. (The Florida Times-Union, Jon M. Fletcher) The Florida Times-Union
The Florida Times-Union
Photo by Jon M. Fletcher/The Times-Union-- 063008-- The Jacksonville Port Authority Board of Directors holds their first meeting since the resignation of Ron Baker. Pictured is Board Member Reginald Gaffney. (The Florida Times-Union, Jon M. Fletcher)

A nonprofit run by former Jacksonville Port Authority board member Reggie Gaffney overbilled Medicaid by almost $1.4 million, according to an audit by the state Agency for Health Care Administration.

The state is seeking to recoup the money from Community Rehabilitation Center and also assess a $111,000 fine.

Community Rehabilitation Center disputes the state's audit and says it filed for an administrative hearing to make its case.

Gaffney, whose five-year tenure on the port board ended this month after the Florida Senate did not confirm his reappointment, helped found Community Rehabilitation Center in 1993 and serves as executive director.

The nonprofit helps low-income people by providing medical services for mental illness, substance abuse and HIV/AIDS.

Gaffney did not return a call for comment.

An email from his assistant said the organization disagrees with the audit.

Community Rehabilitation Center "requested a formal administrative hearing upon receipt of AHCA's audit advice and we are in the process of actively negotiating resolution of this matter," the email said.

The billing case stems from a routine audit by the Agency for Health Care Administration. Last July, a preliminary audit determined the Medicaid program overpaid Community Rehabilitation Center by almost $2.6 million from September 2008 through February 2011.

After further review, the state put the amount of overpayment at almost $1.4 million "for services that in whole or in part are not covered by Medicaid," according to a letter sent to the nonprofit in March.

The letter says Community Rehabilitation Center failed to adequately document its medical records, lacked a valid plan of care for some home health services, and did not render some medical services that were listed on claims for Medicaid payments.

Agency for Health Care Administration spokeswoman Shelisha Coleman declined comment, saying the agency does not discuss cases in active litigation.

In the 2011-12 fiscal year, the agency conducted 2,842 audits statewide and found overpayments in 1,987 cases, according to the agency's annual report. Those cases totaled $36 million in overpayments, or an average of roughly $18,000 in overbilling per case.

Community Rehabilitation Center has reached settlements with the state in the past over Medicaid audits that found overbilling. The organization agreed to pay about $29,000 in 2003 and paid $390 in 2010, according to state records.

Gaffney's service on the JaxPort board ended when the Senate wrapped up its session without voting to confirm his appointment by Gov. Rick Scott.

david.bauerlein@jacksonville.com, (904) 359-4581

then there was this from 2004, same non-profit:

QuoteCouncil candidate airs errors


By MARY KELLI PALKA
The Times-Union,

A Jacksonville City Council candidate reimbursed the state pay almost $132,000 three years ago after being charged with Medicaid provider fraud.

Now Johnny Gaffney wants to get the word out that he's sorry for his past actions and wants to focus on issues during the upcoming campaign.

Gaffney, 46, was arrested on March 2, 2004, and accused of submitting claims to Florida's Medicaid program for services he didn't perform or that weren't authorized.

The State Attorney's Office dropped the charges a few months later. The court file in the clerk's office didn't provide details about why the charges were dropped. The assistant state attorney involved in the case couldn't be reached for comment.

Gaffney, a Democrat, contacted the Times-Union Tuesday after his legal problems hit at least one local online forum. He said he wanted to make sure the public knew about the charge, and he didn't want his opponents to be able to use the information against him to hurt his campaign.

He's running for District 7, which includes parts of downtown and East Jacksonville. The seat is being vacated by Pat Lockett-Felder.

From Dec. 1, 2002, through Sept. 30, 2003, Gaffney misrepresented himself as a licensed provider of support services for an adult day care program, according to a report by the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration and Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.

The program, Community Resource and Training Services, was located on the Northside and taught life skills to six or seven mentally or physically challenged clients at a time. He repaid Medicaid almost $132,000, according to the state report.

Gaffney said he didn't know he needed a license to seek payment from Medicaid. He said he made a mistake and no fraud was intended.

"I'm very sorry," he said.

Gaffney said he now works as an adjunct professor for the Jacksonville campus of the University of Phoenix.

His brother, Donald Gaffney, is a former city councilman and a state representative who served two years in prison for a 1998 federal mail fraud conviction.

Also in the race for District 7 are Democrats Carolyn Anderson, Kenneth Arnold, Irvin "Pedro" Cohen, Marc A. McCullough and Martha C. Valdes-Pellino, and Republican Gary C. Morrison.

Gaffney had raised about $22,000, more than any of the other candidates, according to his last campaign finance report.

William Sweet, a former candidate for the District 7 seat, dropped out of the race in October after being accused of stealing about $8,700 of taxpayer money while working for the city.

mary.palka@jacksonville.com, (904) 359-4104

Is there some correlation here, or did you post the wrong Reggie?

yeah.  I shouldn't post when I'm in a hurry!

Quote
District 7 Race for Council 2015

Candidates are:

Niki Brunson  (NPA)
James Eddy   (D)
Donald Foy    (D)
Reggie Gaffney (D)
Mark A. McCullough Sr. (D)
Wendell Sams (D)

Reggie Gaffney.
Sirretta Williams (D)

Good catch Joe, I was up past my bedtime doing this.  lol  I have added Mr. Spencer and his bio.  :)

Thanks for the thanks guys.  lol

I am also glad that sheclown posted the article on Gaffney.  He should not be elected under any circumstances.  This is guy who has learned how to use his name recognition to make money in politics and he is like his brother dishonest in his back room dealings. Bad news.   He is also on the receiving end right now of monies coming from a Republican PAC.  It is clear what his presence in the race is all about.  I give him a major thumbs down!

Know your candidates and research them.  I say this over and over for a variety of reasons.  One of the most important is to ascertain the character of the person asking for your vote.  Here is a great example of why this is important.  In the race for District 9 there is a young man named Garrett Dennis filed as a Democrat who is busy attending black churches in the district telling them he will "NOT" support the HRO or GLBT community while at the same time attending other Dem and White progressive groups saying he "will" support the HRO.  He is a privately backed candidate, who was moved by political operatives into an apartment in district 9 just prior to the cut off date for district residence.  He has never lived there before.  This folks is the sad case of politics in Jacksonville.  There was a similar case of this nonsense between Reggie Fullwood and Johnny Gaffney with regard to a state house seat which will be voted on this month.  It's a game of chess and it is all manipulated.

Quote from: sheclown on January 29, 2015, 08:37:33 AM
EXCELLENT WORK!!!!  Thanks so much for doing this.

+1

Quote from: Cheshire Cat on January 28, 2015, 11:38:04 PM
District 4 Council Race

Learn more about Scott Wilson at www.VoteScottWilson.com.


Candidates are:

Ramon Day   (D)
Fred Engness (R)
Ryan Taylor    (R)
Scott Wilson  (R)


SOE bio for Ramon Day:

None provided.



SOE bio for Fred Engness:

None provided.


SOE bio for Ryan Taylor: 

None provided


SOE bio for Scott Wilson:

None provided

Scott, I know you have provided competent and honest support to Don Redman in District 4 while serving as his assistant. My dealings with you were always well received and you were very efficient and helpfull.  I think many people are seeing you as a reflection of Don's attitudes and beliefs which I don't believe is accurate.  It may be helpful to voters if you would supply a bio and share some insight with voters about how you see our government and where you would like to see it go.  What would your position on the HRO legislation be if it came up for a vote again under a new term of council?  Thanks!

Will any Jacksonville city council candidate show up at even one committee meeting as 2014-560 our new CRA/DIA in the USA now makes it way through the legislative committee process for a full Jacksonville city council vote before the elections?

Scott Wilson, Ask Don Redman who is still my District councilman and is the Chair of RCDPHS if he supports an amendment that would allow 24/7 economic opportunity for any licensed and insured watercraft to use any existing or new dock, pier, kayak launch in this new 4.8 mile rivers edge boundary zone from the Fuller Warren Bridge to the Mathews Bridge according to a CRA consultant. He has completely ignored the issue. You have said to me that you can't do anything because you don't have the power. But you support an amendment that just doesn't pick the winners and losers?

I remember Lori Boyer was awesome before being elected to city council being at the Charter Revision Commission meetings and how positive this is for any candidate looking to represent the people of Jacksonville.

Did anyone else find it ODD that James Nealis lists his undergrad university, and that he is an attorney, but he doesnt list the law school he attended???? Maybe, it;s because he graduated from The Regent University Law School ---A far RIGHT organization that was founded by 700 Club Guru and Christianist Broadcaster Pat Robertson. For more info: check this out. http://abovethelaw.com/2013/10/is-it-bigoted-to-oppose-this-christian-law-school/
Don't be fooled my moderate friends. This guy will make Kim Daniels look reasonable.

FYI for readers.  Nealis is running for the District 3 seat against Aaron Bowman.  Only voters residing in District 3 can vote for this seat.  This is the seat Richard Clark is being termed out of. I must be honest, the "far right" tendency concerns me. 

That is of concern.  Luckily the other candidate in that District 3 race seems much more reasonable and viable. That's Captain Aaron Bowman.

Glorious Johnson Candidate for District 9 receives well deserved endorsement from important political woman's group, Ruth's List Florida.  http://www.ruthslistfl.org/

QuoteCandidate for District 9 Council Glorious Johnson,

You have officially been endorsed by Ruth's List Florida. We are so excited about you and your campaign. Please let us know how we can help you win your election!

(http://i.imgur.com/OlvDrvI.jpg)


Nice promo piece from my friend Steve Williams in support of Jason Tetlak for the District 14 council seat.

Another endorsement came through for Glorious Johnson in her District 9 Race.  The Northeast Florida Realtors.  https://www.facebook.com/pages/NEFAR-RPAC/302459549845

I understand the FOP endorsements are trickling out.  I know Lisa King got their support.  Anyone hear of any others?

Lisa King, btw, is awesome.  People should check her out.

The only other council candidate they have endorsed is Tommy Hazouri.

Another great choice.  Glad to see Tommy Hazouri willing to serve again.

District 7 drama:  Marc McCullough is accusing his opponent of attempting to buy him off.

http://www.youtube.com/v/WW-YkKcpkCI?rel=0"%20frameborder="0"

Quote from: Jimmy on February 11, 2015, 05:32:13 PM
I understand the FOP endorsements are trickling out.  I know Lisa King got their support.  Anyone hear of any others?

Lisa King, btw, is awesome.  People should check her out.

Couldn't agree more!  She has earned the respect of a lot of people in the Courthouse too with her work on the Planning Commission.

Thanks @Cheshire for posting Steve's endorsement! You can see all of the other endorsements I've received at www.tetlak.com/endorsements.html

Quote from: sheclown on February 12, 2015, 12:31:52 PM
District 7 drama:  Marc McCullough is accusing his opponent of attempting to buy him off.

http://www.youtube.com/v/WW-YkKcpkCI?rel=0"%20frameborder="0"

Marc McCullough has been labeled an "habitual offender" by a judge.  He has tried to get a council seat two times prior to the current campaign.  This may be part of the reason why he has not succeeded and a very good reason why he should not this time around.  Pot meet Kettle. Seriously Jacksonville and District 7, know the candidates and their history before casting your vote.  Our future depends on it.

QuoteByline: BETH KORMANIK

Marc McCullough Sr. does not have the ideal candidate's resume.

Since 1988, he has pleaded guilty to grand theft for stealing a car, selling cocaine to an undercover detective and being a felon in possession of a firearm. He has pleaded no contest to resisting arrest, an alcoholic-beverage charge and domestic battery. Then he violated his probation.

He spent time in prison and in 1992 was labeled a "habitual felony offender" by a judge.

Now McCullough, 36, wants to be elected to the Jacksonville City Council.

McCullough is not alone among council candidates who have had documented run-ins with the law. Despite their pasts - which range from felonies to fishing violations - they still feel qualified to run.

"My past paints a picture of a bad person," McCullough said. But he believes it also makes him uniquely qualified for the job, especially in District 7, which he described as an area "plagued with violence."

For full article:

https://www.questia.com/read/1G1-158930946/political-hopefuls-may-have-a-record-some-candidates

Quote from: Cheshire Cat on February 12, 2015, 09:36:20 PM

Quote from: sheclown on February 12, 2015, 12:31:52 PM
District 7 drama:  Marc McCullough is accusing his opponent of attempting to buy him off.

http://www.youtube.com/v/WW-YkKcpkCI?rel=0"%20frameborder="0"

Marc McCullough has been labeled an "habitual offender" by a judge.  He has tried to get a council seat two times prior to the current campaign.  This may be part of the reason why he has not succeeded and a very good reason why he should not this time around.  Pot meet Kettle. Seriously Jacksonville and District 7, know the candidates and their history before casting your vote.  Our future depends on it.

QuoteByline: BETH KORMANIK

Marc McCullough Sr. does not have the ideal candidate's resume.

Since 1988, he has pleaded guilty to grand theft for stealing a car, selling cocaine to an undercover detective and being a felon in possession of a firearm. He has pleaded no contest to resisting arrest, an alcoholic-beverage charge and domestic battery. Then he violated his probation.

He spent time in prison and in 1992 was labeled a "habitual felony offender" by a judge.

Now McCullough, 36, wants to be elected to the Jacksonville City Council.

McCullough is not alone among council candidates who have had documented run-ins with the law. Despite their pasts - which range from felonies to fishing violations - they still feel qualified to run.

"My past paints a picture of a bad person," McCullough said. But he believes it also makes him uniquely qualified for the job, especially in District 7, which he described as an area "plagued with violence."

For full article:

https://www.questia.com/read/1G1-158930946/political-hopefuls-may-have-a-record-some-candidates

All of that my be true, however, we have another Gaffney with what, 3.5 million in Medicare fraud hanging over him?  Bad enough that Corrine Brown has thrown her support to Spenser, and with him trying to buy off another candidate, how hard is it going to be for anyone to buy his vote?  Who is going to be the best for this important seat?

What is scary is that the majority of voters will vote for whomever Corrine Brown says to not who is best for the district.

Gaffney is more problematic then many know.  Corrine's support for Spenser comes with a price whether it be tangible or not. There will be strings attached.  I will get to that along with some other information. 

Quote from: Cheshire Cat on February 13, 2015, 01:57:23 PM
Gaffney is more problematic then many know.  Corrine's support for Spenser comes with a price whether it be tangible or not. There will be strings attached.  I will get to that along with some other information. 

Please do...it is important info.

I thought Corrine was the number one supporter of Gaffneys.  Odd that she backs Spencer over him.  What's that story?

Quote from: sheclown on February 13, 2015, 06:02:33 PM

Quote from: Cheshire Cat on February 13, 2015, 01:57:23 PM
Gaffney is more problematic then many know.  Corrine's support for Spenser comes with a price whether it be tangible or not. There will be strings attached.  I will get to that along with some other information. 

Please do...it is important info.

I thought Corrine was the number one supporter of Gaffneys.  Odd that she backs Spencer over him.  What's that story?

(http://i.imgur.com/1VAHh90.jpg)  Corrine Brown with Reginald Gaffney

Read the full article to see just how connected Gaffney and Corrine Brown are and how she helped funnel money to his organization which he also used to defraud medicaid.  His brother Johnny Gaffney also defrauded medicaid and admitted it. They have been well coached in how to move federal and local money into their own coffers.   

QuoteJAXPORT
     
BY: CJ Ciaramella    
May 22, 2013 6:50 pm

A nonprofit connected to Rep. Corrine Brown (D., Fla.) and run by a local political power player overbilled Medicaid by nearly $1.4 million, the Florida Times-Union reported.

According to an audit by the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration, the Community Rehabilitation Center in Jacksonville overbilled Medicaid by nearly $1.4 million. Reggie Gaffney, a former Jacksonville Port Authority board member, runs the nonprofit, which provides medical services for mental illness, substance abuse, and HIV/AIDS for low-income residents.

Brown's daughter, Shantrel, is a lobbyist for Arlington-based Alcade and Fay, whose clients include the nonprofit. Community Rehabilitation Center has paid $185,000 to Alcalde and Fay since 2005.

Such arrangements aren't unusual in Congress. According to a 2012 report by government watchdog group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, 44 members have family members who lobby or are employed in government affairs.

Brown requested nearly $3 million in earmarks for the Community Rehabilitation Center between 2008 and 2010, when Congress banned earmarks, the Florida Times-Union reported in 2010.

Of those requests, Congress approved $147,000. However, the tax dollars did not go directly to the nonprofit health center, but rather "streetscape improvements and renovation" for Pearl Plaza, the shopping center in Jacksonville where the nonprofit is located.

Gaffney and several other Community Rehabilitation Center executives own three for-profit businesses that lease space in the plaza.

Gaffney and the health center did not immediately return request for comment, but in 2010 he said that the for-profit businesses provided job training.

When the connection between Gaffney, Brown, and her daughter was revealed by the Florida Times-Union in 2010, Gaffney said he was "unaware of Ms. Shantrel Brown's involvement with securing funding for the agency."

Gaffney has contributed $5,300 to Brown since 2003. Brown's office did not return requests for comment.

[/quote] Click link for full article:  http://freebeacon.com/national-security/all-in-the-family-2/

So to answer the rest of your question Gloria.  Corrine is now backing Spenser for two reasons.  One Gaffney has become more of a liability to her than help and secondly because of Corrine Brown's quick picks and the "cha-ching" that goes with it.  I will do a full explanation of her electioneering and quick pick/money making enterprise in another complete post very soon. 

Quoteelectioneer

[ih-lek-shuh-neer]

to work for the success of a particular candidate, party, ticket, etc., in an election.
Origin

Quote from: sheclown on February 12, 2015, 12:31:52 PM
District 7 drama:  Marc McCullough is accusing his opponent of attempting to buy him off.

http://www.youtube.com/v/WW-YkKcpkCI?rel=0"%20frameborder="0"

Corruption is scared of me!! My life was just threatened after a member of Springfield witnessed another candidates campaign team along with his father removing my campaign signs. That member of the community called me and picked me up, when we arrived at the scene the father approached me and told me that he was gonna have something done to me/that I wouldn't live long! Wow, they say a hurt dog will holler!

The gentleman that called me also videotape the entire ordeal.......STAY TUNED!

let me say this for 24yrs I've been working in my community trying to help someone else, every year I feed our senior citizens for Thanksgiving and Christmas (about 300) and I ensure that every child in several apartment communities receive school supplies. I'm not just talking I'm working!

I will be a councilman for ALL young, old, gay, straight, black, and white!
I need your prayers, and votes on March 24, 2015!!

— with Eric East Side and 10 others.

This quote apparently from Marc McCullough correct Gloria?  When did this allegedly happen do you know and has he contacted the SOE with a complaint about the buy off or the situation with the signs?  The threat if recorded needs to be reported to the JSO. 

Quote from: Cheshire Cat on February 22, 2015, 02:15:42 PM
This quote apparently from Marc McCullough correct Gloria?  When did this allegedly happen do you know and has he contacted the SOE with a complaint about the buy off or the situation with the signs?  The threat if recorded needs to be reported to the JSO. 

According to his facebook page, he is going to the SOE tomorrow with the video.

Well that is a good thing.  Too much dirty happening in the most at risk district races.  This is not new but it is definitely time that it was stopped and folks opened their eyes as to the real reason these districts continue to struggle.  Corrine Brown, independent ego's and power struggles have hurt these districts for decades.  People need to understand that and the truth of the political climate in those districts because many just remain followers as opposed to knowing who is taking their district where and how quickly.  Recent stats for Jacksonville show these districts are way behind other areas of Jacksonville and will remain such unless the leadership changes.  That's a fact.