2014 Annual Report - Legal Services of North Florida
Transcription
2014 Annual Report - Legal Services of North Florida
2014 Annual Report Tallahassee Quincy Panama City Ft. Walton Beach Pensacola COUNTIES SERVED Franklin Calhoun Bay Okaloosa Escambia Jefferson Gadsden Gulf Walton Santa Rosa Leon Jackson Holmes Wakulla Liberty Washington Escambia Holmes Santa Rosa Okaloosa Jackson Walton Washington Jefferson Gadsden Leon Calhoun Bay Liberty Table of Contents Our Mission ..................................................................... 03 Ways to Donate................................................................ 04 Services Provided and Yearly Statistics......................06-07 Private Attorney Involvement............................................ 08 2014 Client Stories........................................................... 09 LSNF Funding..............................................................11-22 Gulf Franklin Wakulla A Message From Board Chair – Sally Gertz My husband Marc and I have been supporters of Legal Services of North Florida, Inc. (LSNF) for over 15 years. We have gained so much through our contributions, including the emotional reward of knowing we have helped ensure so many in our community have a way to solve their legal problems. LSNF’s core values match our own. We both care about the well-being of our community and providing access to justice for those who may otherwise not be able to afford it and, therefore, have little chance of success navigating the complicated civil justice system. The services LSNF provides are invaluable to the individuals living in the 16 counties we cover. As a professor at the Florida State University College of Law, I know firsthand just how complicated our legal system can be. As I teach my students how to practice law, I also encourage them to provide pro bono help to individuals in their communities once admitted to the bar. Despite all of our efforts, there are still many who need help, but who we cannot assist because we simply do not have the resources. I often think about how difficult it is for LSNF staff to say “no” to those in need, but also how life changing it is when we can say “yes.” As LSNF board chair, I want to thank our donors, volunteer attorneys and staff who provide quality legal assistance to those who need it to continue living in their homes, receiving the payments they are owed, and escaping violent situations. If you are reading this and contemplating starting a relationship with LSNF, I urge you to continue. I have received so much by giving back to this organization and I know you will as well. Sally C. Gertz, Esq. 1 A Message from Executive Director - Kris Knab An elderly man suffering from dementia is taken advantage of by his adult children and is at risk of losing his home. A single mother’s only means of transportation to get to her job 25 miles away each day is destroyed in a fire. A woman who has suffered years of physical and mental abuse by her husband has nowhere else to turn and no resources to end the marriage. Stories like these happen every day and serve as a harsh reminder of the struggles that individuals and families in need regularly face. These struggles are further compounded by the fact that in most of these cases these individuals can’t afford the legal services they so desperately need. Legal Services of North Florida (LSNF) helps ensure there is hope and justice for everyone. In 2014, LSNF provided services to 6,528 clients resulting in $1,405,422 in one time benefits and $578,856 in annualized benefits in addition to obtaining 260 injunctions for protection and 55 dissolutions of marriage for victims of violence, relief for 119 families allowing them to remain in their homes, preparation of 472 wills and advanced directives and other legal solutions. In 2014, LSNF also launched the Circle of Giving through a legacy gift from the estate of William T. and Virginia N. Lyons that will help LSNF continue its work providing no-cost civil legal representation to thousands of domestic violence victims, children, the elderly and poverty level clients. The Lyons Legacy Gift of $1.4 million will ensure that LSNF continues its mission to provide hope and justice for all, while realizing the Lyons’ commitment to ensuring vulnerable individuals and families always have access to justice. It is my privilege to lead this organization of committed attorneys, staff, board members, donors and volunteers. Because of their combined efforts we have improved the lives of children, senior citizens, victims of domestic violence and families at risk of losing their homes. We have improved our communities by reducing the level of crime, preventing deterioration of property values and neighborhoods, enhancing local government tax collections and lessening the demand on other overburdened human service organizations. And, we have breathed life into our Constitution and Pledge of Allegiance that speak to the importance of justice for all citizens of our nation, the underlying promise of America. With your continued help we will continue to pursue justice for all citizens, regardless of their income and resources. Kristine E. Knab, Esq. 2 LSNF Leadership Legal Services of North Florida is guided by a 21-member Board of Directors. Seven board members represent lowincome client groups or are lowincome clients themselves. The other members are volunteer attorneys recommended by local bar associations and the Dean of the Florida State University College of Law. 2014 LSNF Board of Directors Officers Sally Gertz, Esq. - President Derek Sims - Vice President M. Catherine Lannon, Esq. Secretary/Treasurer Board Members Joan Anderson, Esq. Joanne Battle Mark A. Bednar, Esq. Our Mission Legal Services of North Florida (LSNF) is a non-profit, 501 (c) (3) agency providing civil legal assistance. Our core mission is: To provide an opportunity for justice for eligible residents through representation conducted efficiently and comparable in quality to that of the private bar, and through other forms of legal assistance designed to provide a full range of civil legal services to those in need. LSNF provides free civil legal services to persons whose income falls below 125 percent of the federal poverty level, and to specific vulnerable populations who experience problems in the following priority areas: • • • • Preservation of the home and promotion of home ownership; Support for families and children; Promotion of employment, economic security and health; and, Promotion of safety and stability. 2014 Accomplishments In 2014 LSNF provided a variety of no-cost civil legal services to 6,528 clients. Our staff and volunteer attorneys obtained 260 injunctions for protection, 55 dissolutions of marriage for victims of violence, and relief for 119 families allowing them to remain in their homes, and assisted in the preparation of 472 wills and advanced directives. Martin R. Dix, Esq. LSNF also helped provide various legal solutions for clients including recovering social security benefits for disabled clients, representing children in the foster care system, providing specialized service to homeless veterans, obtaining financial relief for residents of public housing and resolving tax controversies for low-income taxpayers. Barry Gray The result was more than $1.4 million in one-time benefits and $578,856 in annualized benefits for our clients. Pamela Cayson Tonya Chavis, Esq. Carolyn Cummings, Esq. Renée Gordon, Esq. Michael Guttmann, Esq. Oliver Hill, Sr. Fatimah Jackson Wendy Loquasto, Esq. Dan Thompson, Esq. Joel Margules, Esq. West Ritchie, Esq. Phil Smith, Esq. Yvonne Whitehead Law Day 2014 3 Jazz for Justice 2014 Ways to Donate LSNF Tallahassee Office Building Dedication December of 2014 Planned Giving Planned gifts are investments in LSNF’s future and the services we provide to low-income individuals in the 16 counties we serve. This type of investment is an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy to Legal Services of North Florida. You can make a planned gift by leaving a gift to LSNF in your will or bequest, designating all or a portion of your retirement plan, IRA or life insurance policy, or creating a charitable lead or remainder trust. Endowment Fund In 2006 LSNF’s Board of Directors and a committee of volunteers created an endowment fund to commemorate LSNF’s 30th anniversary. An account was established at the Community Foundation of North Florida from which proceeds from the endowment will continue to grow and sustain our services long into the future. Gifts to LSNF’s endowment can be made at any level and as planned or cash gifts. Donations to the endowment fund are honored on a plaque in each of the LSNF offices. Founders of Justice Society The Founders of Justice Society is an association of individuals, firms and businesses who have made gifts of $5,000 or more to LSNF through planned giving or cash donations. These gifts can be invested in LSNF’s endowment or annual Justice Fund. Members are invited to an annual exclusive event and naming opportunities are available for gifts of $5,000 and above. Partners in Service Since 1994, LSNF’s Partners in Service members have provided essential financial support in aiding victims of domestic violence, the homeless, seniors, rural residents and children. The Partners in Service program is here to help the members of The Florida Bar meet their professional responsibility and the goals of the pro bono rule by allowing attorneys to voluntarily contribute financially to LSNF’s staff-supported and pro bono efforts. 4 Circle of Giving In 2014 LSNF established the Circle of Giving to honor those who support LSNF annually by providing for the financial stability of the various programs LSNF provides. To become a member of the Circle of Giving a donor must make an annual contribution of $1,000 in a one-time gift or sustaining monthly donation. Benefits to COG members include fulfillment of annual pro-bono responsibility through the Partners in Service Program, Jazz for Justice Patron tickets, annual Pro-Bono Recognition event sponsorships, access to free CLE events and more. Other Ways to Donate You can also make direct donations to LSNF through sponsorship or support of Jazz for Justice or LSNF’s annual pro bono recognition events, LSNF’s vehicle giving program, on-line shopping, in-kind giving opportunities or unrestricted cash gifts. Gifts in memory or celebration are always welcome. If you are an attorney or judge consider designating and approving Cy Pres funds to LSNF. For more information on the various opportunities to donate please contact Mary Dekle at [email protected] or 850701-3313. LSNF’s Donor Gift Policy is available at www.lsnf.org and current fundraising efforts can be found on the Legal Services of North Florida Facebook page. Our Newest Legacy Givers William T. and Virginia N. Lyons Legal Services of North Florida is very pleased to announce a $1.4 million legacy gift received from the estate of William T. and Virginia N. Lyons. Mr. Lyons served as an intern at LSNF during law school at the FSU College of Law. During that time he grew to realize that LSNF truly served the community by ensuring that vulnerable individuals and families always have an access to justice. After the death of Virginia at their home in Jacksonville he made plans to leave his estate to LSNF. In honor of the Lyons Legacy Gift, LSNF named the Legal Services Tallahassee office the William T. and Virginia N. Lyons Justice Center. The LSNF Board has dedicated part of the Lyons gift to the LSNF Justice Fund to help provide day to day services to those in need, and a portion to the LSNF endowment fund to provide services for years to come. The Lyons Legacy will help ensure that LSNF continues its mission to provide hope and justice for all. Law Day 2014 5 Giving Hope through Services Legal Services of North Florida provides representation to low-income individuals in civil matters only. Eligibility for assistance may be based on income and assets of all members of the household and the legal problem. Domestic/Sexual Violence LSNF provides assistance to adult and child victims of abuse, sexual assault, stalking and human trafficking. Though a broad range of services are available, many of the cases involve securing orders of protection, safety planning and obtaining dissolutions of marriage. Family LSNF handles some family law matters where the situation may threaten the security or the viability of a family. LSNF may handle the following types of cases: paternity, adoption, name change, and guardianship. Consumer LSNF assistance ensures that issues such as debt collection and lending practices are done in a lawful manner. LSNF may handle cases such as: bankruptcy, debt collection issues, predatory lending issues, contract issues, and unfair or deceptive sales practices. Housing LSNF provides representation to tenants and homeowners. LSNF may represent tenants with the following types of cases: lease agreement disputes, landlord lockouts, evictions, poor living conditions and public housing issues. LSNF may also represent homeowners facing foreclosure. Public Benefits LSNF provides representation in federal and state administrative hearings to protect the basic necessities of life. These may include: Medicaid, Medicare, food stamps, unemployment compensation, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, and Agency for Healthcare Administration Managed Care Advocacy. Elder Law LSNF provides assistance with wills, estate planning, and probate matters in limited situations. Simple estate planning may include beneficiary deeds, powers of attorney, and health care directives. LSNF may also provide assistance with guardianships for those who need protection. Tax Law LSNF provides representation to low income taxpayers in federal tax controversies and educates individuals about their rights and responsibilities as U.S. taxpayers. LSNF may represent taxpayers with the following types of cases: collection issues, including offers-in-compromise, installment agreements and currently-notcollectible status. BP Oil Spill LSNF provides representation to help low wealth victims with BP oil spill claims issues. LSNF may help people understand their filing options, understand documentation requirements, review settlement offers, interpret the Release of Claims, understand the tax implications of receiving a payment, and address other issues that come up in the claims process. 6 Clinic/Helpline LSNF provides various legal clinics and a telephone legal advice helpline supported and facilitated by both LSNF staff and volunteer lawyers in an effort to assist hard-to-serve populations such as home bound sick and elderly, rural residents and day and evening workers. LSNF clinics and helpline cover a variety of topics including: agency information, family, consumer, housing, public benefits, and elder law. 29% Education/Outreach Male LSNF provides public education and outreach services to partnering agencies and community groups upon request. LSNF covers a variety of topics including: agency information, domestic / sexual violence, family, Female consumer, housing, public benefits and elder law. 71% Demographics of Clients Receiving Services 3% Hispanic 29% Male 71% 3% 41% 53% White Female Total # of Clients Receiving Services - 6,528 Financial Benefits Chart Area of Law Clients Served 41% Consumer..............................511 53% Education...................................5 Employment...........................324 Family.................................2,311 African-American Hispanic Benefits Back Awards Monthly Annual Monthly Benefit Total Annual Social Security $28,468 African-American $31,573 $378,876 $407,344 Child Support $13,470 $161,640 $175,843 White Alimony $14,203 $81,388 $3,121$37,452 $118,840 Unemployment$12,885 $12,885 Health......................................99 Reduced Tax Liability $699,436 $699,436 Housing..............................1,055 Tax Awards $51,476 $51,476 Income Maintenance.............1,153 Oil Spill Claims $396,260 $396,260 Civil Judgments $39,292 $39,292 Veteran $14,648 $14,648 Debt Reduction $64,366 $64,366 Other Public Benefits $3,000 $3,888 Totals $1,405,422$48,238 $578,856 Juvenile.................................314 Individual Rights........................69 Misc......................................687 Total...................................6,528 7 $74 $888 $1,984,278 Private Attorney Involvement – PAI LSNF works closely with private attorneys throughout its 16 county service area to provide legal assistance to low-income individuals. Through the Private Attorney Involvement (PAI) Program this cooperation takes several forms, coordinating volunteer attorney resources of time and/or financial support. Over 900 attorneys make up LSNF’s support pool. More than 545 of these lawyers contributed over $163,000. In addition, pro bono attorneys provided over 5,258 hours of service in 2014. This is the equivalent of $788,700 worth of legal services. A large part of client assistance continues to come from volunteers at our telephone legal advice helpline. We are grateful to our partners at the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Florida Department of Transportation and the City of Tallahassee Attorney’s office for encouraging their attorneys to participate in this important program for so many years. If you would like to donate your time and expertise, contact John Fenno at [email protected] or (850) 701-3306. Volunteer Recognition The work of volunteers is a vital part of Legal Services’ effort to succeed in its mission. Each year LSNF recognizes its volunteers by publishing in area newspapers all the names of lawyers who contributed time and other resources. Additionally, in the 1st and 2nd Judicial Circuits, LSNF holds a Pro Bono Week and Law Week Celebration reception each October and May in honor of all volunteer attorneys in their respective circuits. Challenges Our staff is one of LSNF’s most valuable resources. To maintain consistently high quality client services, it is imperative to keep well-qualified and dedicated attorneys, paralegals and support staff that are committed to making a difference in people’s lives. Towards that end, we strive to expand our community support by helping the business and private community understand the role of legal services in the quality of life for all and to educate and inform leaders, philanthropists, politicians, business people and residents about how integral LSNF is to a safe and healthy community. Law Day 2014 - Attorney General Pam Bondi Pro Bono Awards Each year LSNF participates in The Florida Bar President’s Pro Bono Service Award nomination process in the 1st, 2nd and 14th Judicial Circuits, putting forth names of deserving volunteer attorneys for consideration for this important recognition. The awards were established in 1981 and intended to encourage lawyers to volunteer free legal services to the poor by recognizing those who make public service commitments and to raise public awareness of the substantial volunteer services provided by Florida lawyers. In 2014 the following attorneys were recognized for their commitment to justice. • Sonia R. Crockett, 2014 Florida Bar President’s Pro Bono Services Award for the 2nd Judicial Circuit; • Virginia Marie Buchanan, 2014 Florida Bar President’s Pro Bono Services Award for the 1st Judicial Circuit; • Susan V. Carroll, 2014 Florida Bar President’s Pro Bono Services Award for the 14th Judicial Circuit; • Twyla Sketchley, Capital City Bar Presidents Council’s Richard W. Ervin Equal Justice Award; • Stephanie Johnson, Esq., Joy Aukema Taps 2014 Children’s Advocate of the Year Award; and, • Hon. Jonathan E. Sjostrom, Parks & Crump Thurgood Marshall 2014 Judicial Excellence Award. 8 Message from Director of Litigation Scott Manion Our clients come to us with a variety of problems both large and small. They not only seek immediate resolution of their legal trouble, but hope for a better future. Whether we are saving their homes or rebuilding broken families, each client’s case is as important as the last. A look at some of our work sheds light on what we are all about and pays tribute to our talented and dedicated legal staff and volunteers. In 2014 LSNF served 6,528 people -- these are a few of their stories (all names are fictitious): HOPE - Preventing Homelessness AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Mary came into our office and indicated that she was homeless. She has two children who are living with their father in another county. She was working, but her paycheck was being garnished for child support. She could no longer afford her rent, utilities or any other expense, including visiting her children. She was eventually evicted and subsequently lost her job. She began staying at the homeless shelter. While at the shelter, she volunteered and eventually obtained two part-time jobs. We succeeded in court and were able to reduce child support long enough to allow her to save for her deposits and move into affordable housing. FORECLOSURE: Nancy, an elderly woman who had recently been widowed, was in the process of building a new home. After her husband died, the builder abruptly refused to finish the house. In fact, he walked off the job with the entire back of the home unfinished and exposed to the elements, while Nancy was forced to remain in another home that had been condemned by local officials. Almost a year later she was in contact with a LSNF attorney after receiving a foreclosure notice from the bank. LSNF quickly contacted the bank to stop the foreclosure. Nancy had no idea how to proceed. With LSNF’s help the foreclosure was stopped and monies were provided to finish the home. The house was soon finished and Nancy moved in. The first builder was reported to the state to have his license revoked and Nancy was able to save her new home from certain destruction by vandals and from foreclosure. JUSTICE - Protecting Consumers BANKRUPTCY: Mr. Sanders was nearing retirement but was in danger of losing his home. A bankruptcy plan was completed but it was discovered that the lender had added charges that were illegal after the bankruptcy was discharged. There was a threat the home would go into foreclosure again. LSNF reopened the bankruptcy and filed for violation of certain bankruptcy rules. LSNF prevailed in court and got the lender to agree to drop $2,000 in additional charges. The lender also offered a $30,000 reduction in principal and dropped the client’s monthly payment from $680 to $313 a month as a result of a class action settlement. With the lower mortgage payment Mr. Sanders and his grandson have additional resources to greatly improve the quality of their lives. FORECLOSURE: Bethany, a working single mother caring for her four nieces, was facing foreclosure. She had filed for bankruptcy but could not keep up with the payments the court established. With a new program designed to help homeowners in rural areas, LSNF helped Bethany on an emergency basis with her application. Fortunately, she was able to provide the required $3,000 down payment from her tax refund. With LSNF’s help, Bethany and her nieces remain in their home. 9 FOR ALL - Protecting Families DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: Angie was a 22-year-old college student, who was a victim of domestic violence. On her own, she obtained a permanent injunction against her husband. She came to us for a divorce after she had filed her own dissolution of marriage, but was unable to get her husband served with the court papers. The judge was about to dismiss the case. LSNF stepped in and was granted an extension and then obtained a voluntary acceptance of service signed by her husband. Their divorce was finalized and Angie graduated from college and is now working full time for the state. However, prior to obtaining her state job, she discovered that a prior arrest would prevent her from working for a particular state agency. She had been arrested in a domestic dispute during which she defended herself from her abusive husband. The charge was eventually dropped. We assisted Angie in obtaining an expungement of the arrest so she could obtain the job she wanted. TEENS & CHILDREN: LSNF represented Jenny, a 13-year-old severely autistic girl with epilepsy. Medicaid was providing personal care assistance during the time she was not in school. Julie’s mother was disabled and could not care for her without assistance. She received a notice from the Agency for Healthcare Administration that would significantly reduce her assistance on the basis it was not medically necessary, since the mom was at home and Julia did not require any complicated medical treatment. Her mom requested an appeal. At the same time she required hospitalization for three weeks. This caused Julie to be placed into a foster home. LSNF was able to get Julie returned to her mom after her hospital stay and a hold placed on reducing her benefits. Tallahassee Office 2119 Delta Blvd. Tallahassee, Florida 32303 Fort Walton Beach Office 133 Staff Drive Ste. B Ft. Walton Beach, Florida 32548 Quincy Office 121 N. Jackson St. Quincy, Florida 32351 Panama City Office 211 E. 11th St. Panama City, Florida 32401 Pensacola Office 1741 N. Palafox St. Pensacola, Florida 32501 10 LSNF FUNDING PARTNERS LSNF is grateful for the many local and national governmental entities, agencies and grantors who have embraced our mission of justice by supporting our work. On behalf of all we serve we thank our funding partners. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 11 Area Agency on Aging of North Florida Bay County Commission Big Bend Homeless Coalition Calhoun County Commission Community Foundation of North Florida Florida Attorney General’s Office Florida Bar Foundation Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence Florida Coastal School of Law Florida Council Against Sexual Violence Florida Department of Elder Affairs Florida Guardian ad Litem Franklin County Commission Gadsden County Clerk of the Circuit Court Gadsden County Commission General Practice Solo and Small Firm Section of FL Bar Gulf County Commission Holmes County Commission Internal Revenue Service Jackson County Commission Jefferson County Commission Justice Administrative Commission Lakeview Center Legal Services Corporation Leon County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller Leon County Commission Liberty County Commission Mississippi Center for Justice Okaloosa County Commission Refuge House U. S. Department of Justice United Way of Escambia County United Way of Northwest Florida United Way of the Big Bend University of Minnesota Wakulla County Commission Walton County Commission Washington County Commission Where does your funding come from? LSNF is funded from a variety of public and private sources. Our largest funder is the Legal Services Corporation (LSC) which is funded by Congress. Additionally we receive Interest on Trust Accounts’ funds from the Florida Bar Foundation. We also have a variety of governmental grants which help fund our domestic violence programs, representation of children and low-income taxpayer clinics. We receive funds from 14 of our counties derived from ordinances in accord with a legislative mandate. The remainder of our funding comes from other governmental and private grants, the United Way, private contributions and fundraising events. Are you a state or governmental agency? No, we are a private not-for-profit agency. How many lawyers do you have? Over the 16 counties we serve, we have 16 staff attorneys and over 340 volunteer lawyers. What is the composition of your board? Our board is comprised of representatives of the various attorney groups throughout our region and one third is comprised of client members, who represent various agencies serving the poverty community. How do individuals get services from LSNF? A potential client is either referred by another agency or the courts, or comes to us on their own. They apply for services and within one week are notified if we will handle their case. The cases are assigned to LSNF attorneys, paralegals or volunteer attorneys. What is the criteria for accepting a client? Our primary client base is restricted to an income of 125% of the federal poverty guidelines. Several of our grant sources have varying income requirements. The domestic violence grants do not have an income criteria because so many victims are situationally poor. All cases must be civil in nature and adhere to our priorities. What is the difference between you and Legal Aid and Northwest Florida Legal Services? Legal Aid provides services through volunteer attorneys, almost exclusively in Leon County. Northwest Florida Legal Services provides services through staff attorneys primarily in the areas of health, social security, juvenile and family law, almost exclusively in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties. LSNF provides services through staff and volunteer attorneys throughout 16 North Florida counties. In 2014 in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties, LSNF focused primarily on consumer, housing, domestic and sexual violence issues, tax controversies and children’s issues. Hope. Justice. For All. Who benefits from your investment in LSNF? Vulnerable and exploited individuals, families, and veterans. Domestic and sexual violence victims and their children in long-term personal safety. Senior citizens with disabilities who have limited access to public transportation. Seniors who are targeted by home improvement/ predatory lending scams. Families stabilized by maintaining transportation and income. affordable housing, Individuals given assistance to secure employment and education. Community non-profit organizations that work with special needs populations, affordable housing, job creation and transportation. Rural and immigrant women/men who are victims of abuse. Everyone Benefits When we stop an illegal eviction, one less person is homeless. When we force a fly-by-night contractor to redo “shoddy” work for an elderly couple, we are discouraging contractors from preying on other victims. When we save a home from foreclosure, residents do not need to seek shelter at the community’s expense or become homeless. When we stop a cycle of domestic violence, we are saving lives, enhancing employment stability and reducing healthcare costs. When we help not-for-profits with their legal issues, we are helping them to allocate more revenue for their client services. When LSNF helps clients provide for themselves, other community non-profit resources are not stretched as thin. 12 Our Many Thanks to these Donors for their Gifts in 2014! $10,000 Plus Fox & Loquasto, P.A. Dan and Robin Thompson *# The Archibald Foundation * The Gem Collection Thrivent Financial for Lutherans William T. and Virginia N. Lyons Estate Greenberg Traurig Steven J. Uhlfelder Grossman Furlow & Bayo’ LLC $5,000 Plus Gunster Law Firm Randall “Big Daddy” Webster and Red Hot Java Sandy D’Alemberte and Patsy Palmer * Don Hinkle * $500 Plus Lisa and Keith Foran * Hip First! 1st District Court of Appeal Paul Houzell Akerman LLP * Paul and Helen Jess * Anonymous Debby Kearney Ed Bayo Kristine E. Knab * Judge Gary Bergosh Lamar Outdoor Advertising Lisa and Sheldon Bernau * WTXL-ABC27TV M. Catherine Lannon and Stephanie A. Clapp *# Russell Brabec $1,000 Plus Wendy Loquasto and Terry Hansen *# Hopping Green & Sams * Kent Spriggs and Kathleen Laufenberg *# Robert W. Murphy Law Firm The Tallahassee Democrat Aloft Hotel Anonymous Judge Simone Marstiller and Greg Philo # Joan and Wayne Anderson * MVP Productions * Andrew’s Capital Grill & Bar Karen Oehme and Nat Stern Barrett Fasig & Brooks Parks & Crump * Barron & Redding Mary Anne Price # Berger Singerman * The Radey Charitable Fund * Mary-Anne Bestebreurtje # The Radey Firm Bobby Blanchard Bishop A. J. and Mrs. Connie W. Richardson Brewton Plante, P.A. Judge Stephen T. Brown # Clark, Partington, Hart, Larry, Bond & Stackhouse, P.A. Bob Cox * Cuneo Creative Consultants Daddy “B” Mark Ellis Jill Fitzpatrick 13 Curtis and Nina Ashenafi Richardson * Rowland Publishing Rumberger Kirk & Caldwell Mark Russell Rutledge Ecenia, P.A. Cathy and Larry Sellers # Dan Soloway Richie Summa Trio Kathleen Brennan and Claude Herndon # Audra M. Bryant Richard Burton Bush Matthew Byrge and Jessica Slatten Petra-Kate Califano Carlton Fields Jorden Burt Jorge Chamizo Harry F. and Mary Chiles Copy Fax Mary L. Dekle and William R. Jones Roxane R. Dow ERS Group Farnsley & Johnston Janet Ferris and Phil Padovano * Florida Government Bar Association * Florida Justice Association * FSU University Center Club Gilmore Services Warrior Golf Club Tom Barnhart Grant & Rump, P.A. Roy C. Young Amanda S. Barr Zaid Haynes Zelman Heath, P.A. Michael J. Barry Terence A. Gross Jerome A. Zivan James Craig Barth John “Jack” and Jere Harkness Tim Harley and Marsha Orr Debra Henley Hinkle & Foran Holland & Knight * Robert P. Hubbard Kid’s Incorporated Thomas F. Kirwin The Krizner Group Kevin Mangan and Linda Vaughn Daphne Wiggins Martin Judge June McKinney Ross Andrew Nabatoff Northwest Florida Legal Services Alexa Pleas Thomas A. Pobjecky Powell & Mack Judge Lynne A. Quimby-Pennock Barbara L. Ray Michelle Saber Ellery W. Sedgwick Stan Johnson PhotoGraphics Dan R. Stengle Thomas Stahl Tallahassee Chapter of the FACDL Tallahassee Diamond Center Tallahassee Downtown Improvement Authority Under $499 211 Big Bend Eric Abrahamsen Robin S. Abramowitz David H. Abrams Howard E. Adams William Adams Silvia M. Alderman Jeffrey Alexander Stefani Alexander John M. Alford James S. Alves Farrukh S. Alvi Alzheimer’s Project C. LeDon Anchors, Jr. James W. Anderson Jim Andrews R. Alan Andrews Brenda Anthony Robert Colin Apgar Applebee’s Village Art of the Find Dubose ‘Duby’ Ausley * Bada Bean Linda A. Bailey Thomas Balcerzak Brian D. and Kathryn S. Ballard Kathleen Villacorta and Thomas Warren * Janet Barber Waldoch & McConnaughhay Farrar J. Barker Thomas Warren Law Firm * Linda Barge-Miles Sandy C. Barnett W. Randall Bassett Janine G. Bauer Mark Bauer Thomas M. Beason Mark Bednar Steven A. Been Belks Department Store Douglas Bell Bella Bella Theresa Marie Bender Richard Benham Wings S. Benton Brian and Carol Berkowitz Kara J. Berlin Toni C. Bernstein Kathy J. Bible Judge Ross L. Bilbrey Birdsong Nature Center Michael P. Bist Orlando L. Blanco Donna E. Blanton Sarah M. Bleakley Byron B. Block Jennifer Suzanne Blohm Blossom’s Flowers Robert C. Blue Robert G. Blythe Ira Bodenstein Body Trac Samantha D. Boge John P. Booth 14 Winston K. Borkowski Robert W. Byrne Judge Robert S. Cohen Harry C. Bosman Jennifer Byrom Julius Wadsworth Cohn John C. Bottcher Salvatore J. Calabrese Terry Cole Nathan D. Boyles Cabo’s Island Grill & Bar Miguel Collazo, III Charles A. Bowen Lee L. Cameron Bert Lewis Combs Georgenne Bracko Bruce Campbell and Susan P. Stephens Ian Comisky Kate Brady David S. Bralow Christopher Paul Brannon William Dennis Brannon Michael Brennan James R. Brewster Wilbur E. Brewton Richard Stephen Brightman Quinn E. Brock Courtney S. Brogan Thomas W. Brooks Elliot J. Brown Evelyn and Alvin Brown H. French Brown Joseph A. Brown Toni Y. Brown Browns Kitchen Center Rep. Doug Broxson Wendy Brummett Bill L. Bryant B’ Sharp’s Jazz Café Brenda Buchan Katie S. Buchanan Virginia M. Buchanan Tasha O. Buford Samuel Dean Bunton Les W. Burke Ernest and Nancy Burkman Jennifer Lee Bushnell 15 Scott M. Campbell Bruton M. Campbell-Work Capital City Country Club Dennis Salvatore Cappello Diane W. Carr Scott H. Carruthers * Justin Chang Stan Chapman Ganesh L. Chatani Tonya Chavis Chelsea Salon & Spa Cherry Blow Dry David William Childs Computer Repair Doctor Michael J. Coniglio Patricia Ann Conners The John C. Cooper Campaign Pam Cooper William W. Corry John Costigan and Debbie Hall Berneice Cox and Gary Yordon * Thomas A. Crabb Col. Dayton M. Cramer William C. Cramer, Jr. Penny Crandall Samuel S. Critzer Chop House on the Block Sonia Crockett and Jack Van Doren Christmas by King Brian Alex Crumbaker Walter Ciliberto Carolyn D. Cummings City Day Spa Gregory J. Cummings Mary Ellen Clark Peter C. Cunningham Mary W. and James T. Clark Gerald B. Curington Judge Nikki Ann Clark Meghan Boudreau Daigle Susan Leslie Forbes Clark John and Virginia C. Dailey Wade Clark and Kathleen Hudson Nancy Daniels * The Clothesline Diana and Walter Dartland Coastal Bank and Trust Brian Dassler Richard E. Coates Ronald M. Davids Erin Coburn Connie Davis Coco’s Salon Ella Jane P. Davis Karen Asher Cohen J. Riley Davis Ken W. Davis Judge E. Gary Early Janet L. Findling Valencia Davis Jere L. Earlywine John Mark Fisher William Davis Stephen A. Ecenia John M. Fite Dennis De Angelis Mirentxu Rosa Echenique H. Bart Fleet Barbara Debelius-Enemark Michael C. Eckert Florida Healthy Kids Corporation David Scott Dee Linda Bond Edwards Kim Fluharty-Denson Francisco De La Fuente Charles ‘Chuck’ Ehrhardt Chris DelMarco Carl Eldred Judge Ronald W. and Theresa A. Flury Ralph A. DeMeo Arthur M. Elk Anthony Dominick Demma Merphis Ellis Laura Dennis Karen O. Emmanuel Barbara A. DeVane Patrick G. Emmanuel, Jr. LeMae DeVane and Robert Brantley Stephen C. Emmanuel J. Ladon Dewrell Michael P. Dickey Leonard J. Dietzen, III Jeffrey M. Dikman Dillard’s Department Store William P. Dillon Gail Dixon Judge Charles W. Dodson Pamala J. Doffek Doncaster Richard T. Donelan, Jr. Mike Donovan Keith P. Vanden Dooren Richard E. Doran Mike Doubek George Drumming Charles F. Dudley Melody Duke David Ericks Donna Erlich Jewel Ervin Richard W. Ervin, III David B. Erwin George W. Estess Silas R. Eubanks C. Michael Evert Jeffrey Ewaldt Steven Falkoff Gregory F. Farkas Patrick J. Farrell, Jr. Kelton and Margaret Farris Jeffrey Howard Feldman John H. Fenniman John Fenno and Kerri Bowden Eugene D. Feola Diana M. Ferguson Barbara Foley John P. Fons C. David Fonvielle, III Marguerite Foxon Belinda T. France David M. Frank * Louis F. Fray, Jr. Seann Frazier Jeffrey L. Frehn Scott French Joy Fulford Bill Fuller and Marilyn Yon Loula M. Fuller J. Richard Gallagher Laura L. Gallagher Jeffrey Gallen James Seth Galloway Armando Garcia James F. Garner, III Kathy S. Gatzlaff Katherine E. Giddings Clarence James Gideon, Jr. Judge Karen Gievers Rachael R. Gilmer Davisson F. Dunlap, Jr. Howell Ferguson and Sharon Maxwell * Davisson Dunlap, III Erik Matthew Figlio Glasswork by Susan Kirsten L. Dunton Barbara M. Finch Susan Glickman John F. Gilroy 16 Vinette D. Godelia William D. Hall, Jr. Brian W. Hoffman Golden Eagle Country Club Diane and Steve Halleck Linda A. Hoffman Judith Rice Goldman John Hanes J. David Holder Jesus Alberto Gonzalez-Pita Susan W. Harrell Holder of the Keys Owen K. Goodwyne John A. Harrelson, Jr. Lorena A. Holley Renée Gordon * Lucy H. Harris John David Holt Theodore G. Granger Leigh D. Hart Andrew E. Holway Graphateria Michelle Hartson and Bill Wilson Home Health Services Christine Lee Gray Ana M. Carroll Hasbrouck Hopkins Eatery Great Bicycle Shop Judy Hasner Edward W. Horan Lois Green George William Hatch, III Norman H. Horton, Jr. William Harris Green Hathaway & Sprague, P. A. William S. Howell, Jr. William Howard Green Kathryn Hathaway Virginia W. Hubbard Richard A. Greenberg Herbert Dale Haughton Frank R. Hughes, II Karen Greenfield-Sanders Susan Hawkins Gary K. Hunter, Jr. Carol Gregg and Ken Hart *# Brian L. Hayden Warren H. Husband Curtis A. Griffin Maureen M. Hazen Andrew A. Iacobelli Steve Grigas The Healing Center Imagine That! Roberta A. Grimes Lynn C. Hearn Patrick “Booter” Imhof Stephen H. Grimes Leonard Helfand Peter J. Imholz Dr. Patricia Gritta * Douglas J. Helling Dina Ivory Photography Carol S. Grondzik Anne Hempel Lila A. Jabar Michael Gross Cynthia A. Henderson Pamela and Philip Jackson Stephen Grow Robert Alan Henderson Diane and Joseph W. Jacobs Edward and Kathy Grunewald * Carol L. Hendrix Theresa Jacobson Guided Tours in Tallahassee Debra A. Henley Anthony V. James Lee Ann Gustafson William C. Henry Denise O. James Charles A. Guyton Ashley Smith Herndon * Karen Wallace James Dr. William Guzman Clifford C. Higby Dr. Brenda Jarmon Scott E. Gwartney Hilton Garden Inn Jasmine Women’s Center Karen Varn Haber Julie K. Hilton Mohammad O. Jazil Wesley S. Haber Loyd Charles Hilton, Jr. Nancy Jefferson Virginia W. Haddad Melanie Ann Hines John Jenkins Mitchell B. Haigler, Jr. Dottie and Jon Hinkle Kathleen Jenkins Debora Hall Elizabeth and Gary T. Hirst Kitty Jenkins 17 Dr. Cheryl Jennings Olivia Klein Joe and Susan Lombardi Tor Jensen-Friedman Adam J. Komisar Brittany Adams Long Sonia Jewell Kool Beanz Mariah Long Jim Grey Designs Ann Kozeliski Robert E. Long, Jr. Joanie’s Gourmet Market Kenneth D. Kranz James E. Joanos Larry Krieger and Donna Klein Anne Longman and Peter Antonacci # Joe’s Bike Shop Mark Alan Krohn Dalana W. Johnson Carrie and Christopher Kroll Jonathan T. Johnson David Kuritz Kelly Overstreet Johnson * Edward L. Kutter Laurel D. Johnson Ronald A. Labasky Mandi Johnson Elizabeth LaFollette Stephanie Anne Johnson John Thomas LaJoie Edward Burke Jolly Lake Jackson Weight Loss Clinic David and Janie Jones Alisa LaPolt David L. Jordan Last Call Elise F. Judelle Mary Sterner Lawson Charles and Janet Kahn Zachary F. Lawton Gladys Kane Dean R. LeBoeuf Eric S. Kaplan Bruce A. Leinback Tawainga Katsvairo Theresa Leslie Mary E. Keating Myrtice S. Lester Julie Meadows Keefe Fredric G. Levin * Kenneth M. Keith Levin Papantonio Thomas Mitchell Rafferty & Proctor, P.A. Cameron M. Kennedy Danny L. Kepner Brian C. Keri Keynotes Piano Studio Kathleen Kiefer Roland W. Kiehn Douglas L. Kilby Jennifer L. Kilinski Killearn Country Club Terry King Patrick T. Kinni A. Kenneth Levine Brooke E. Lewis Fran and Judge Terry Lewis Gerald A. Lewis Gary A. Lieberman Nancy G. Linnan Lynne L. Liska Theodore P. Littlewood, Jr. Gerald S. Livingston James J. Logue Patricia D. Lott Dewitt M. Lovelace Jeffrey A. Luhrsen Christoph B. Lunny Lutz Bobo Telfair Eastman Gabel & Lee Suzanna Lyle Teresa Jane Lynch Karen Mack Tucker F. Mackie Madison Social Club Michael G. Maida Thomas J. Maida Robert Makemson Steven M. Malono Douglas M. Mann Robert A. Manning Margaret Marcil Jane and John Marks Patrick F. Maroney Charles Marschall John David Marsey Maria I. Matthews Frank E. Matthews John J. Matthews Marie A. Mattox, P.A. Joanna Maurer Jonathan Harris Maurer Sula S. McAuley Cassandra McAway 18 Rick H. McClure G. C. Murray Philip S. Parsons Fred A. McCormack Karen and Randy Murrell Pathway Wellness Mari Helen McCully # Daniel E. Myers Ben R. Patterson, III Martin P. McDonnell Julie S. Myers Allison D. Patton Andrew H. McElroy, III Nails La La Summer L. Pedersen Mary and Tripp McElroy Valerie L. Nettles Alexander W. Peet Robert E. McGill, III Robert D. Newell, Jr. Thomas G. and Vivian Pelham C. Jeffrey McInnis Raymond F. Newman, Jr. Robert A. Pell Don and Kathy McLaughlin Judge John Newton and Mignon Deshaies Gary V. Perko Kathy McNaughton Brent McNeal Donna C. McNulty Timothy J. Meenan, Jr. Joseph C. Mellichamp, III Richard D. Melson Lesley Fellows Mendelson John Stephen Menton Frances and Jason Merritt Ronald G. Meyer Michles & Booth, P.A. Angela D. Miles Millennium at Midtown Craig D. Miller Cynthia Brown Miller David K. Miller Holly Randall Miller Mary Miller Travis L. Miller Ra Shaundra Miller-Wallace Steven T. Mindlin William W. Montjoy Theresa A. Moore Tim Scott Morris Gregg R. Morton Gregory M. Munson 19 Richard Lee Nichols Miriam and Randy Nicklaus Nomads Jeff Norcini Lynette Caryl Norr Emily J. Norton William A. Norton Pedro P. Notario Novare Kara Tollett Oakley Jarrett C. and Sharon Oeltjen Olive Garden Martha C. Olive Miguel A. Olivella, Jr. Eric T. Olsen Kelly Otte Emily A. Pabalan Daniel C. Perri Anne Perry Jeff G. Peters Michael P. Petrovich David C. Pettig Patrick M. Pfeffer Thomas R. Philpot Robert A. Pierce Annette Pitts Kelly Brewton Plante Patricia Plummer Jeffrey E. Pomeranz Terry Poore Audrey E. Post David L. Powell Martin F. Powell Stanley Powell Jose Pagan Thomas L. and Jeanne BeckerPowell R. Anita Page Theodore Prekop Paintings with a Twist R. David Prescott Thomas F. Panebianco Valerie Prevatte Mary L. Pankowski Jerald S. Price Justice Barbara Pariente Rachel Pringle Daniel Parisi The Proctor Dealerships James J. Parry M. Julian Proctor, Jr. Theresa “Cissy” Proctor Dustin Rost Marcia Seligman ProForma - Anchor Page Rozelle Sentry Self Storage Eric D. Prutsman Steven S. Rubinstein Melanie Shaw Seymour Jan and Mark Pudlow Jonathan Ruckdeschel Paul A. Shapiro Harold F. X. Purnell Marsha E. Rule Timothy J. Sheehan, Jr. Laura C. Pyne Sarah Rumph Judge Frank and Jan Sheffield Quady Winery Laura Rush Linda L. Shelley Timothy R. Qualls Mack Rush Timothy Francis Sheridan Quarter Moon Imports Debbie Sinclair Ruskin William C. Sherrill, Jr. Quincie Hamby Art Jewelry Gary R. Rutledge Barry N. Shinberg Priscilla Rivera Quinones Eric Ryan Vikki R. Shirley Edmund D. Quintana Sachs Media Group Brian M. Showman Carolyn S. Raepple D. Kent Safriet Jack Shreve Mary Lou Rajchel S. Ansley Samson Jennifer Wintrode Shuler Thomas Andrew Range Barbara Sanders Martin B. Shulkin Louis Francis Ray, Jr. Sarah R. Sandy Kenneth Mitchell Sigelman Dale Stephen Recinella Lisa S. Santucci Michael T. Simpson Regal Entertainment Group Robert M. Saunders Madelyn and Neil Skene Judge George S. Reynolds, III Amelia A. Savage Skin Deep Center for Wellness George S. Reynolds, IV Jeffrey H. Savlov Timothy J. Sloan Robert L. Rhodes Nona R. Schaffner Gina Smith and Craig Graham Terence J. Ricaforte Randall R. Schmidlin Douglas M. Smith The Curtis Richardson Campaign Linda C. Schmidt James C. Smith Monique Richardson Michael L. Schneider Robert J. Sniffen Audrey Keeling Rierson Carly J. Schrader Meredith Woodrum Snowden Daniel J. Rigo Charles J. Schreiber, Jr. Susan L. Somers Timothy M. Riley Maggie M. Schultz Teresa Sopp Douglas J. Rillstone Charles A. Schuster Laura Spears Lisa Anne Ritchey-Craig Lisa Scoles Michael P. Spellman Douglas S. Roberts Darby Kerrigan Scott River and Troy Spencer Marcia Robinson Kellie D. Scott Spirit Spins Pottery Chris B. Roe Lynn Scruggs Brett Spradlin Gigi Rollini and Stephen Thomas Steven M. Seibert Spuhler Family Jaimie A. Ross Lynn Seiler Thomas John Spulak Kim Ross Samantha Seletos Judge Charles Stampelos 20 St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church William W. Tharpe, Jr. Jason M. Walters Susan L. Stephens Theatre Tallahassee Jennifer L. Warfel-Bushnell Wayne Cameron Stephenson Harry O. Thomas William G. Warner Earlynn Stillwell Shira R. Thomas Gabriel F. Warren Susan L. St. John Three Sons Bakery Sarah S. Warren Margaret T. Stopp David Ellis Todd Jeffrey W. Watson Tana Duden Storey Touch of Healing Victoria L. Weber Ronald G. Stowers Kenneth M. Towcimak Michele and Peter D. Webster Nate Wesley Strickland Traditions Antiques Virginia Weeks Cyneetha A. Strong Irene and Deno Trakas C. J. Weinman # Cheryl G. Stuart Allison Tringas and Timothy Walker John A. Weiss Q. Tod Stupski Jann and Will Tucker-Pettway Michael D. West Cindy and David Suhrweir Amalie L. Tuffin Joseph Y. Whealdon, III Tiffany Sullivan Charles F. Tunnicliff Wyndi L. Wheaton Ivan T. Sumner M. Stephen Turner Lindsay C. Whelan Glenda F. Swearingen Alexander H. Twedt Eric C. White Mary L. Sweet United Church in Tallahassee Larry White Anne Swerlick Uptown Café & Catering Teresa B. Widmer Synovus Trust Company Steve Urse Bruce I. Wiener William E. Tabor, Jr. Abigail Vail Ann Johnson Wild # The Tallahassee Automobile Museum H. Kenza van Assenderp Wild Olives Restaurant J. Arby Van Slyke Cathy Anne Williams Roy and Judge Suzanne Van Wyk S. Denise Williams Charles E. Vanture F. Palmer Williams John Veasley J. Larry Williams John E. Venn, Jr. Jack G. Williams Carmel and Rusty Vernon Kirby Hamm Williams Raymond B. Vickers Phil and Sue Ann Williams Richard Voellmy Dr. Tamaria and Brian Williams Neill G. Wade, IV Jackie Wilson Reid M. Wakefield Robert S. Wilson Lauchlin Waldoch Sandra A. Wilson Walk the Tail The Wine Loft Louis C. Walker The Wine Warehouse Tallahassee Barristers Association * The Tallahassee Museum Tallahassee Nurseries Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra Tallahassee Women Lawyers * Debra Tann Marc E. and Maria Taps * Elizabeth Clark Tarbert Michael T. Tartaglia Ron Tate Robert J. Telfer, III Tammy Tener Sharon Teskey 21 Elizabeth J. Walters The William H. Stafford American Inn of Court Jacob Dorman Wingard, Jr. E. Ellen Winslow Donald E. Witmyer Judge James R. and Jolen Wolf Karen Woodall Samuel S. Woodhouse Thomas B. Woodward Susan Adair Woolf Robert Woolfork Robert S. Wright We especially thank all those who contributed to us through the various United Way campaigns and who may go unnamed here. All our friends and contributors are sincerely appreciated; we regret if we have inadvertently left anyone off the list. Wyrough Law Firm * Founders of Justice Society Members Mary Jean Yarbrough # Circle of Giving members Yes to Carrots David A. Yon Laura Youmans David W. and Patricia Young Young Lawyers Section of the TBA Lauren Yuzon Douglas C. Zahm Paul A. Zeigler Memorial Gifts Mary-Anne Bestebreurtje # in Memory of Madison Hodges Elliot J. Brown in Memory of Evelyn and Alvin Brown Karen Greenfield-Sanders in Memory of Arnold M. Greenfield, Esq. Laurence S. Krieger in Memory of Larry and Donna Krieger Dale Stephen Recinella in Memory of Reubin Askew Reid M. Wakefield in Memory of Reid and Jaime Wakefield 22 LSNF Locations Tallahassee Office 2119 Delta Blvd. Tallahassee, Florida 32303 Phone: (850) 385-9007 Fax: (850) 385-7603 Quincy Office 121 N. Jackson St. Quincy, Florida 32351 Phone: (850) 875-9881 Fax: (850) 875-2008 Panama City Office 211 E. 11th St. Panama City, Florida 32401 Phone: (850) 769-3581 Fax: (850) 785-2041 Fort Walton Beach Office 133 Staff Drive Ste. B Ft. Walton Beach, Florida 32548 Phone: (850) 862-3279 Fax: (850) 862-6327 Pensacola Office 1741 N. Palafox St. Pensacola, Florida 32501 Phone: (850) 432-8222 Fax: (850) 432-2329 23