"Melvin - The Protector" - Halt! Who goes there? (c) Reinhardt
Over the past year and a half, no one person has appeared as the spokesperson for the New Duval County Courthouse. Maybe this is because of the controversy surrounding the project. Or, maybe it is because no one wants to step up and be in the firing line.
When the World Trade Center buildings were under construction, the construction company hired women dressed in blue outfits similar to airline stewardess uniforms to greet onlookers and explain each step of construction. That was not done for this project.
So, who exactly is the “Front Man” for the courthouse? If I were to select one person, it would be Melvin. I call him “Melvin – The Protector.” Melvin is one of the only men who has been on this construction site for nearly every day of this project. In fact, Melvin is not even a Turner Construction Company employee. He was hired to work temporarily to clean flooring after the first concrete floor was poured in May of 2009.
While sweeping, Melvin was left with a slightly injured thumb as a result of a freak construction accident. Instead of sending him home, his supervisor asked him to guard the front gate of the construction site. This has been a blessing to Melvin and his family because, even though other temporary employees have come and gone, Melvin is still employed. Today, like a sentry guarding a military base, he remains steadfast at his job.
MELVIN IN HIS OFFICE FOR THE PAST 1 1/2 YEARS
Whether it is raining, cold, windy or smoky, Melvin is on duty and smiling. From his makeshift camp at the front entrance gate he greets the incoming trucks and workers. No one gets into or out of the restricted courthouse area without Melvin’s approval.
Next time you drive down Adams Street and you pass the center of the New Duval County Courthouse, give a little honk to Melvin. He would appreciate knowing that you recognize him.
