TPA Talks

Dr. Marvin Dawkins, a sociologist, and Dr. Marvin Dawkins, a psychologist are twins who grew up in the projects of Durkeeville. A family of 9 lived together in a small home, and all of them recieved advance degrees! They discuss the influence the projects had on the family. Childhood Memories in Durkeeville - Dr. Marvin Dawkins reminisces about growing up in Durkeeville, emphasizing the sense of s...

Cameron Starkes and Serenity Robinson interview Rashid Williams and discuss the Blue Zones Project. Discussion how they work with places like grocery stores, schools, and worksites to make healthy choices easier, specifically examples at grocery stores and schools  Focusing on policies around walkability and traffic calming  Engaging the community through organizations  Why the Durkeeville area wa...

Tabitha Sylvester interviews Carlotta Williams about her involvement with Durkeeville. Carlotta explains the origin of her business name, "Kama Kina," derived from Swahili and an African warrior queen.  She shares her diverse background in writing, journalism, public relations, and grant writing.  Carlotta discusses her involvement in interpreting government processes for the community. ...

Melody Evans and Cameron Starkes interview Amaya about her involvement with the Youth Action Series and why they are doing a mural in Durkeeville. Maya explains what the Youth Action Series is - a group focused on community revitalization in the 32209 zip code through activities like trash pickups, lawn mowing, landscaping, and recently surveying on clean air in partnership with UF. Maya has been...

Tabitha Sylvester discusses Durkeeville history with Dr. Marva Dawkins. Dr. Dawkins reflects on childhood memories and the historical context of black life in Durkeeville. She discusses the challenges faced by black families in Jacksonville during the 1920s and 30s.  Dr. Dawkins describes the federal government's involvement in housing projects like Durkeeville during the Great Depression.  Re...

Teddy Williams talks with Serenity Robinson about his involvement in the Youth Action Series and the State of the Young People. Teddy's involvement with the Youth Action Series Community involvement in Durkeeville Enjoyment and benefits of community involvement Achievements of the Youth Action Series in 2023

LaRanne "Lala" Middleton interviews Temisha about Unified Community Investors (UCI). They aim to counter gentrification through collaborative community efforts and increasing homeownership.  Unified Community Investors (UCI)' s Mission: UCI focuses on providing quality affordable housing and essential services like financial literacy and mental health support.  UCI collaborates with...

Lala Middleton interviews Paul Tutwiler about the involvement of the Northwest Jacksonville CDC with Durkeeville. Paul established the non-profit to drive tangible change in underserved communities. Their initiatives are to preserve and honor the history of a neighborhood facing challenges. 

Lala Middleton hosts TPA Talks and discusses the impact Pastor Harris had on Durkeeville and shares his vision for the future. Pastor Harris envisions Durkeeville as a desirable place for all to live and engage with the community. He hopes for continued growth and prosperity, where Durkeeville becomes a beacon of opportunity and inclusivity. The pastor encourages further research and exploration o...

Charles Griggs, the director of community initiatives for Mayor Donna Deegan, is interviewed by LeRanne "Lala" Middleton and Tabitha Adams as part of the "TP Talks" series, and focuses on Griggs' upbringing and experiences in the Durkeeville neighborhood of Jacksonville, Florida. Throughout the episode, Griggs shares nostalgic memories of growing up in Durkeeville, describi...