In interviewing various members of the Northside Business Leaders Club, there is an opportunity to meet interesting people, and learn something new also. This was the case with my most recent interview. I learned that Richard L.  “Dick” Berry was employed by the Federal Reserve for 43 years. He started as a mail clerk, and worked his way up to Vice President of Operations when he retired in 1992. He was also in the Florida Army National Guard, and retired with 35 years of service with the rank of Command Sergeant Major (E-9). He has worked as an Executive Assistant for City Council Member, Warren Alvarez, until 2000, and remained as an unpaid “Legislative Assistant” until 2007.  

He has been a life long advocate for North Jacksonville . In fact, he holds memberships in, and is past president of the Northside Lions Club, and the Northside Business Leaders. Dick is active in the Northside Civic Association, and Jacksonville Community Council, Inc. (JCCI), has been appointed to the Metropolitan Planning Organization-Citizen’s Advisory Committee (served as Chairman), The T.R.U.E. Commission (served as Committee Chairman), and The Jacksonville International Airport/Community Redevelopment Agency (Vice Chairman currently). He served on three school advisory committees for San Mateo Elementary School , Oceanway Middle School , and First Coast High School . He is currently the Executive Director of the EDEN Group. This stands for Economic Development and Enhancement of North Jacksonville.  

Mr. Berry has facilitated $3,850,000. in grants for North Jacksonville, most notably a “ Town Center ” grant from the City Planning Department for the Oceanway area.  

Richard L. “Dick” Berry was married to Gail Berry for 54 years. Together, they have three children, and four grand children who all live in Jacksonville !  

Mr. Berry is a sports fan in his “spare time.” He is a fan of the Jaguars, the Gators, and he likes Basketball. My time spent with him was refreshing. Thank you for entering the “Spotlight,” and thank you for letting me look at your basement!

Shannon Elian, PropVoice Management

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