St. Johns Magazine May 2024

ST. JOHNS ST. JOHNS

The area’s No. 1 choice for children’s emergency care.

When it’s your child and it’s an emergency, you want the best care available, close to home. Wolfson Children’s Emergency Centers give you and your family the convenience of a full-service children’s ER with a dedicated team of emergency physicians, nurses and other caregivers.

Learn more about Wolfson Children’s family of ERs at WolfsonChildrens.com/ER.

Baptist/Wolfson Children’s Emergency & Imaging Centers

Baptist Clay: 1771 Baptist Clay Drive, Fleming Island

North: 11250 Baptist Health Drive, Jacksonville

Oakleaf: 9868 Family Place, Jacksonville

Baptist South: 14550 Old St. Augustine Road, Jacksonville

Town Center: 4085 Town Center Parkway, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital: 800 Prudential Drive, Jacksonville

OPENS MAY, 7 2024

St. Augustine: 461 Outlet Mall Boulevard, St. Augustine

COMING SOON

Nassau Crossing: East of I-95 on State Road 200 in Yulee

Baptist Medical Center South

ST.JOHNs magazine

Publisher & Creative Director

Debbie Gaylord

debbie@stjohnsmag.com

www.stjohnsmag.com

904-687-8538

Photographer/Partner

Ozzy Trevino

Ozzy Trevino Photography

Pets/Partner

Dr. Deckard

Pets R Family

Food Blogger/Partner

Lori Allen @MywanderingFork

To Adverttise

contact:

Eric Wolf

eric@stjohnsmag.com

904-567-7401

About Us

St. Johns Magazine is dedicated to covering the topics readers care aboutfrom hometown stories and community spotlighs to food, health & business. St. Johns Magazine is designed to engage readers and inspire them to enjoy the good life in Northern St. Johns!

All rights reserved

©2012-2024

©St. Johns Magazine LLC.

St. Johns Magazine is published monthly and distributed by US postal Service to select homes in Northern St. Johns. It is free of charge to consumers receiving it in the mail. It is also availalble at many drop points in Northern St. Johns. All material is compiled from sources believed to be reliable and published without responsibility for errors and ommissions.

CONNECTING THE GROWING COMMUNITIES OF

Northern St. Johns

Inside the May 2024 issue

Dear Reader

Please enjoy our May issue celebrating the people, places & events in Northern St. Johns. This month’s featured article about The YMCA’s Camp Immokalee explores the value of this iconic Summer experience and how it may enhance life in more ways than one.

Also in this issue: Special Section on Home Improvements; Tips on Planning the Perfect Mother’s Day Brunch; the May Calendar & More!

Happy Mother’s Day to All

Sincerely,

Debbie Gaylord Publisher

CAMP

Leave Your Mask at the Gate

YMCA Summer Camp Experience

By Richard Bombach, Executive Director, First Coast YMCA Camp Immokalee

IMMOKALEE

It may sound strange, but when I was growing up, I was never a “camp” kid. It wasn’t until I was a freshman at Oklahoma State Uni versity when I was hired as a counselor at a sports camp near Houston that I at tended my first camp. The first night of the first session, I was assigned to the youngest kids and shortly after we started, a little boy named Luke came up a nd reached for my hand. He had just been adopted from South America and had a pretty rough childhood, so he was understandably grasping for security. When I held his hand, that assured him he was safe. I didn’t have anything to give him except my hand and an assurance that things were going to be OK, but my n othing was his everything. From that point on, I saw camp in a different light

Ever since that summer, I’ve been involved in camp in some way and now, I’m fortunate to serve as the Executive Director for the First Coast YMCA’s Camp Immokalee in Keystone Heights. In truth, I see “Lukes” every day - kids come in with the stresses of school or family and when they realize they can truly be a kid out here, you see the weight lift off their shoulders. I’ve had countless parents come up to their kids after a week of camp and say, “Oh my gosh, you got so much taller!” And in a sense, they’re right. Those kids walk with a new confidence after spending a week out here, remembering what it’s like to disconnect from the world and have fun with their peers.

We also host retreats and events throughout the year and recently, we were appreciative to host families for a weekend program where each family had at least one child with a specific medical need. They came in from all over the country and spent time learning how to take care of their kids, including how to cook in our dining hall and embracing the activities we provide. It’s incredibly powerful to meet other people who are going through the same challenges as you and to learn how to take maybe one more step outside your comfort zone than you thought you could. That can make all the difference and you can take that confidence back home to approach new challenges.

The sense of community that makes Camp Immokalee special extends beyond just the campers. We’re blessed to have some of the most selfless and passionate people serving as counselors throughout the year. Some of them aren’t much older than our 14–15-year-old campers, and yet they’re pouring into them and helping them detox from the technology tedium that can be pervasive in today’s society. It may take a little while at first; some kids are hesitant to let their guard down. But inevitably, the kids’ “masks” start to fade – this persona they think they have to be - and they connect with counselors in a way they never would’ve thought of at the start of camp.

For me, I had to leave my own “mask” at the gate last summer when, four days before the end of camp, I was diagnosed with cancer for the second time. I shared my experience with everyone at camp at the time and when I was at my weakest, I had the strongest people around me. The vulnerability at camp allows us to connect with people and sure enough, when I shared my story, a little boy named Lucky came up to me and said, “My sister is really sick right now and I needed to hear that.”

I am fortunate that the cancer is in remission, and I’m convinced it’s my ministry to serve at Camp Immokalee. I get to see one more day. I get to see one more Lucky, one more Luke, one more counselor who needs to get away from everyday life and embrace nature again. Maybe that one more will be your son or daughter, or even your whole family during our annual family camps. We’re open year-round so we can help as many people as possible discover a healthy life in body, mind, and spirit. Just remember when you get here to leave your mask at the gate.

The

sense of community that makes Camp Immokalee special extends beyond just the campers. We’re blessed to have some of the most selfless and passionate people serving as counselors throughout the year.

Home Improvements TO UPDATE YOUR HOME

Whether you're looking to boost your home's resale value or simply enhance its aesthetic appeal, investing in home improvements can be a wise decision. From small upgrades to significant renovations, here are the top 10 improvements that can give your home a fresh and modern look:

Kitchen Remodel:

The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home. Upgrading countertops, cabinets, and appliances can instantly add value and functionality to your space.

Bathroom Renovation:

Updating fixtures, tiles, and adding modern amenities like a rainfall shower or a heated floor can transform your bathroom into a luxurious retreat.

Painting:

A fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into any room. Choose neutral tones for a timeless appeal or add pops of color to create a vibrant atmosphere.

Flooring Replacement:

Replace worn-out carpets with hardwood, laminate, or tile flooring to give your home a more sophisticated and easy-to-maintain look.

Energy-Efficient

Windows: Upgrading to energyefficient windows not only improves insulation but also reduces utility costs and enhances the overall comfort of your home.

Landscaping: Enhance

your home's curb appeal by investing in landscaping. Planting flowers, adding mulch, and installing outdoor lighting and new fencing can instantly elevate the look of your property.

Deck or Patio Addition:

Create an outdoor living space by adding a deck or patio. It provides additional space for entertaining guests and enjoying the outdoors.

Smart Home Technology

: Incorporating smart home features such as thermostats, security systems,

and lighting can enhance convenience, security, and energy efficiency.

Storage Solutions:

Maximize space and minimize clutter by adding built-in storage solutions like shelves, cabinets, and closets.

Updated Lighting

Fixtures: Replace outdated lighting fixtures with modern, energy-efficient alternatives to improve ambiance and functionality throughout your home.

Investing in these home improvements not only enhances your living space but also increases the value of your property. Whether you're planning to sell or simply want to enjoy a more comfortable and stylish home, these upgrades are sure to make a lasting impact.

PAVING A WAY for Families

PLEASE SEND CALENDAR ITEMS TO DEBBIE@STJOHNSMAG. COM BY THE 15H OF THE MONTH PRIOR TO PUBLICATION

May 3rd to 19th Romanza Festivale of Music & the Arts

MAY HAPPENINGS

St. Johns Magazine

Two weeks of daily events featuring dozens of concerts, shows, exhibits and much more at locations throughout the city. Showcasing productions by dozens of St. Augustine’s talented Arts and Cultural nonprofit organizations. For complete details, dates and times visit www.romanzafestivale.com. Most events are FREE!

May 4: STA Brewers’ Fest

Visit the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park from 1-5 p.m. (general admission tickets) to enjoy unlimited samples from over 25 regional and local breweries, live music and food trucks! General admission is $45/VIP tickets are $100. VIP tickets include guaranteed on-site parking, access to the climate-controlled pavilion, private restrooms, a catered buffet, a festival tasting glass, and full festival access an hour early. 11 Magnolia Ave., St. Augustine www.stabrewersfest. com

May

8th

to 12th

The St. Augustine Food + Wine Festival

and an adult beverage with your school ID! (Dine-in only!)

May 8-12: St. Augustine History Festival

A culinary celebration showcasing culinary, beverage and culture that highlights celebrity guest chefs, celebrity winemakers/ proprietors, local chefs, artisans and local craft spirits/beers. The festival offers a wide variety of events for all tastebuds, from wine dinners and tasting events, to master classes and more. World Golf Village, Renaissance Resort, San Sebastian Winery and Bozard Lincoln are the host location sites. www. staugustinefoodandwinefestival.com

May 7th

10th Annual Slate Group Teacher Appreciation Event

The Slate Group at Keller Williams St. Johns and Island Wing Company Bartram are celebrating all school employees! Stop by Island Wing Bartram between 4:00- 7PM and enjoy free dinner

The goal is to showcase every era of St. Augustine’s long and storied past, from the founding in 1565 to the most advanced technology available in 2023 to research and study every year in-between. American history began here, and no one tells our story better than we do – come out and enjoy our city! Tour 20+ historic properties, attend events and lectures, visits churches, gardens and cemeteries in St. Augustine, Florida. Learn more at staugustinehistoryfestival.com

May 11th

Bartram Living History Fest

On the 250th anniversary of William Bartram's visit to Florida, come learn about Floridian history from 1740 up to the present day with historical demonstrators, crafts for the kids, guided tours, and more! Alpine Groves Park. For more info, contact Kelly Ussia at kussia@sjcfl.us Attendees will be able to catch shuttles from Hickory Creek Elementary (235 Hickory Creek Trail, St. Johns). Shuttles will transport attendees to and from Alpine Groves Park starting at 9:30 a.m. and will run until 1:30 p.m

May 11th

MAY HAPPENINGS

St. Johns Magazine

Sunflowers & Tomato Festival at Wesley Wells Farms

A fun, spring festival with Family Fun Activities, a Kids Zone, Salsa Tasting Contest, U-Pick Flowers & Veggies, Live Entertainment, Whip Cracking Demonstration and Handmade Market . From 9am to 4pm. www. wesleywellsfarm.com

May 11th

Arts & Farmers Market

Variety of vendors. Crafts, plants, teas, honey, household items, bath products, food, clothing, soap, jewelry, birdhouses, jams and jellies, breads, cookies, and so much more!

Family and pet friendly!!!! 11924 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223

May 12th

Mother’s Day Brunch

St. Johns Golf and Country Club

Mom takes good care of her flock, so treat her to a fabulous brunch experience. Pamper her with a welcome beverage and gift for mom, an elegant buffet featuring assorted salads, madeto-order omelets, a carving station, and more. 205 Saint Johns Golf Dr, Saint Augustine, FL, United States, Florida 32092 Adults - $49.99/ Kids 4 to 11$19.99/ Kids 3 and Under - Free

May 16th

Sips & Stems

Come get creative with us at the Really Good Beer Stop where you can grab a drink and some laughs with friends

while getting hands on guidance to curate a stunning floral arrangement with a take home reusable vase for you to show off to your friends and family!

May 12th

Sundays at Beluthahatchee Mike Worrall

Presented by The Stetson Kennedy Foundation and St. Johns County Parks, this monthly folk music concert series features artists who reflect the values, spirit, and goals of Stetson Kennedy. Shows are from 2-4 p.m. and admission is a suggested donation of $10 per person. All proceeds support the Sundays at Stetson's concert series. Tours of Beluthahatchee (Stetson's cottage) may be available. Beluthahatchee Park, 1501 SR 13 N., Fruit Cove. www.facebook.com/ SundaysAtStetsons

May 22nd & May 29th

Music & Art by the Sea at the St. Augustine Beach Pier

On select Wednesday evenings enjoy live music, local food trucks, and artists at the Art Studio at St. Augustine Beach. Food trucks open at 6 p.m., and the music by local bands begin at 7 p.m. The full schedule will be announced soon. More details at freebeachconcerts.com

BLAZE A NEW TRAIL IN 55+ LIVING

St. Johns County’s exciting new 55+ lifestyle is more a ordable than ever before. For a limited time, Reverie at TrailMark is o ering below-market financing on select homes that are available for quick move-in! With our low-maintenance inventory homes, you can start enjoying abundant recreation and activities right away within a gated community created just for active adults. Residents can also enjoy all the natural beauty, social events, and miles of walking trails and waterways of the TrailMark master-planned community. TOUR INVENTORY HOMES TODAY

HOMES FROM THE LOW $400 s Visit the Sales Center at 50 Rustic Mill Drive | St. Augustine, FL 32092 ReverieAtTrailMark.com | 386.749.3059

YEAR 3.99% SAVE UP TO $50,000 ON QUICK MOVE-IN HOMES

Planning a sweet Mother's Day brunch is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for the special women in your life. Here's how you can create a memorable brunch experience

Set the Date and Time:

Choose a date and time that works best for everyone, ideally on Mother's Day itself or the weekend before or after. Consider whether you'll be hosting the brunch at home or at a restaurant and factor in reservation availability if needed.

Create Invitations: Craft personalized invitations to send out to the guests, whether it's family members, friends, or both. You can use digital invitations for convenience or opt for traditional paper invites for a more classic touch.

PLANNING THE PERFECT Mother’s Day Brunch

By following these steps, you can plan a sweet Mother's Day brunch that celebrates the wonderful mothers in your life

Plan the Menu: Design a mouthwatering menu featuring a mix of sweet and savory dishes. Consider classic brunch favorites like eggs Benedict, pancakes or waffles with fresh berries, quiches, pastries, and fruit salads. Don't forget to include beverages such as mimosas, fresh juices, coffee, and tea.

Decorate: Set the mood with charming decorations that reflect the theme of love and appreciation for mothers. Fresh flowers, elegant tablecloths, and decorative place settings can enhance the ambiance and make the brunch feel extra special.

Prepare Ahead: To minimize stress on the day of the brunch, prepare as much as you can in advance. Prepping ingredients, setting the table, and arranging the decor the night before can help things run smoothly on the day.

Personalize the Experience: Consider incorporating personal touches to make the brunch unique to the guest of honor. This could include serving her favorite dishes, displaying photos or mementos, or even creating a DIY craft station where guests can make heartfelt cards or gifts.

Entertainment: Plan some light entertainment to keep guests engaged and entertained. This could be background music, a photo booth with props, or even a game or two that everyone can participate in.

Capture Memories: Ensure you have a camera or smartphone ready to capture precious moments throughout the brunch. Photos and videos can serve as cherished memories for years to come.

LOCAL VETERAN ORGANIZATIONS

American Legion:

Post 233, located in Ponte Vedra Beach offers various services and community events for veterans.

Website: American Legion Post 233

Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW):

Summer Reading & Math

Millions of families trust KUMON’s practice-based enrichment programs to prepare thier kids

Parents play a key role in filling the gaps for their children over the summer. Students can lose up to 2 months of reading skills over the summer. Students can lose up to 2.6 months of math computational skills over the summer.

Nearby VFW posts can be found in the broader Jacksonville area. You can visit the VFW website and use the post locator tool to find the nearest one.

Website: VFW Post Locator

Disabled American Veterans (DAV):

The DAV offers a range of services including help with VA benefits, transportation, and job programs. You can use their chapter locator on their website to find the closest one.

Website: DAV Chapter Locator

Wounded Warrior Project:

The headquarters for the Wounded Warrior Project is in Jacksonville. This organization specializes in services for veterans who were wounded postSeptember 11, 2001.

Address: 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256

Website: Wounded Warrior Project

By 6th grade, students can lose more than 18 months of learning due to summer learning loss. Reserve your child’s spot now. Summer enrollments are filling up fast!

SUMMER CAMPS St. Johns Favorite

DATES: JUNE 17TH-21ST, JUNE 24TH-28TH!

MONDAY-THURSDAY OF BEATPAC WILL BE HELD AT CREEKSIDE HIGH SCHOOL. FRIDAYS WILL BE HELD AT SAN JUAN DEL RIO.

BeaTPAC is a performing arts summer camp created with the purpose of enriching and encouraging cultural development in St. Johns County. The staff is comprised of an energetic and talented group of instructors, counselors, and support staff. was founded in 2005 as a senior project. With the guidance and leadership of Ava, Leia, and Juliet Fixel the project turned into the BeaTPAC we all know and love today. The first year of BeaTPAC had 20 campers broken into two age groups. We have seen many instructors and counselors come and go but with the unending passion of the Fixels BeaTPAC now has almost 200 campers that are broken up into seven age groups. For members of the BeaTPAC Family, BeaTPAC is indeed the highlight of their summer. For information visit www.beatpac.com

ST JOHNS COUNTY 4-H

Registration is now open for the St. Johns County 4-H Summer Day camps starting on March 15th. Camps are for ages 5-18, (age as of September 1, 2023). Archery, sewing, science and gardening are just a few of the camp topics that will be offered. To register or find out more information about the summer day camps go to: www.sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/stjohns/4-hyouth-development/4-h-events-and-activities

4-H is a youth development program that enables youth to develop life skills, leadership and citizenship. . Youth members ages 5-18, as of September 1st, 2024 interested in joining a 4-H Club can enroll in the St. Johns County 4-H program ONLINE on August 1st by going to www.florida.4honline.com . Please contact the 4-H Office at 904 2090430 for more information. The St. Johns County 4-H Program is an equal opportunity institution.

First

Summer is a critical out-of-school time when children benefit from enriched learning and unique adventures. That’s why YMCA camps offer activities that engage both the body and mind. Our goals are to eliminate summer learning loss, nurture self-confidence and sound values, and encourage healthy lifestyle habits. Plus, children make new friends along the way. Campers identified as non-swimmers or poor swimmers receive free lessons throughout the summer. The Y also offers financial assistance to ensure that all kids get the chance to experience camp. Visit FirstCoastYMCA.org or call 904.265.1775 for more details

St. Augustine Art Association

Join the St. Augustine Art Association for this year’s Summer Art Camps! Students will explore a variety of mediums and techniques to encourage art appreciation and critical thinking, as well as allow students to experiment with their own creativity. $175 per weekly session (includes supplies.) Space is limited.. Students should bring their own snacks and drinks. For more information visit www.staaa.org/summer-art-camp/

SESSIONS:

Mixed Media Magic - June 10 - 14 (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Sketchbook Studio - June 17 - 21 (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Lights, Camera, Click! - June 24 - 28 (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Coast YMCA

PETS R FAMILY

FULL-SERVICE VETERINARY CARE, BOARDING, & GROOMING

HOSPITAL SERVICES

WE’RE YOUR OTHER FAMILY DOCTOR!

Pets R Family is a full-service 11,000 square foot Veterinary Hospital nestled in a private and serene wildlife preserve. Family-owned and operated right here in St. John’s, we are NOT a corporate veterinary facility — no pre-designed packages or sales tactics here!

We believe in treating all pets with love, care, and compassion. Our large team of doctors, technicians, and customer service members are at your service to provide you with the very best care and experience.

• State-of-the-art medical facility

• Experienced team of compassionate doctors and veterinary technicians

• Same-day sick appointments available

• Home visits available by appointment

• Full pharmacy

• Teeth cleanings and dentistry

• Specialty care including ultrasounds, thermal imaging, and K-Laser treatments

• NEW! CT Scanner and fluoroscopy

KENNEL SERVICES

• Pups N Play social day care

• Pet birthday parties

• Long-term and short-term boarding care

• Hospital boarding for pets with special needs

• Professional grooming and bathing services

VETS N TRAINING

Does your child love animals?

Our Vets N Training program gives kids from kindergarten to fifth grade the opportunity to experience what it’s like to work at a veterinary hospital and to learn all about the veterinary industry. Space is limited, so scan the QR code to sign up today!

Did you know that external parasites are a threat to your pet all year long? In certain areas of the US, there may be less of them during colder months, but common parasites like fleas, mosquitoes and ticks can persist even through cold weather, especially in Florida. In fact, some species of ticks are actually more prevalent here in the cooler months. There are many brands of parasite preventions on the market today, but not all of them contain tick protection, and many people are not aware of that! Tick preventions can vary greatly in the ticks that they treat and the speed of kill which can be very important regarding transmission of disease. Protecting your pet against ticks is equally as important as protecting them from heartworms and fleas because dogs and cats are very susceptible to tick bites and the diseases that can be carried by them, and should they (or you!) inadvertently bring an infected tick into your home, you are also at risk, as many of these diseases infect humans!

A tick’s life cycle is in 4 stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult. After hatching from the eggs, they must have a blood meal from a host at every life stage to survive, making them unique in that they can carry and spread disease during any life stage. If their host has a bloodborne infection, ticks will ingest it during feeding and transmit it to the next host in their next life-stage, and because of their multiple-hosts, it’s not uncommon for a tick to be carrying several different disease-causing pathogens.

A Message From The Vet

The most common tick disease we hear about is Lyme disease; it’s extremely

by Dr. Deckard, DVM, Pets R Family

THE IMPORTANCE OF YEAR- ROUND TICK PREVENTION

prevalent in the northeastern US and can cause significant disease, but in Florida it’s very rare. In a recent study, Lyme disease was only found in about 0.5% of the pets who were tested for it in this state, as compared to about 15% positive in the Northeastern states, making it very uncommon in Florida. However, lyme disease does have a vaccine for dogs, so if you feel your dog is at risk, or if you plan to travel to the Carolinas or further north, it’s recommended that you vaccinate your dog.

The diseases we see most commonly in Florida include: Erlichia, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Babesia, and Anaplasmosis. There are other diseases that primarily affect cats: Hemobartonella, Tularemia, Cytauxzooan and Babesia.

Almost all tick diseases present in your pet the same way: joint pain, fevers, neurologic symptoms, and anemia – which can mimic many other disease processes. Most veterinarians have a rapid in-house test that can detect antibodies to some of the most common diseases, but many times more tests are needed before a true diagnosis can be made. Many tick-borne diseases can be very serious if not treated promptly, and in some cases they cause a life-threatening anemia or loss of platelets. The cytauxzooan organism that infects domestic cats (also called bobcat fever) is almost 100% fatal within days of contracting it from the tick bite.

Certain female ticks can also produce a toxin in their saliva that causes Tick Paralysis – which affects motor neurons of dogs and cats and can cause a

progressive paralysis usually 5-9 days after attachment. This can also be very serious and life-threatening if the paralysis progresses to respiratory failure, but in most pets, the tick is discovered, removed, and typically with supportive care the pet will begin to recover within hours of removal of the tick.

So how to you keep your pet from contracting these diseases? Obviously removing ticks once you see them is very important, but prevention is the absolute best thing you can do for your pet. Depending on the species of the tick, they can take from 10 minutes to 24 hours to transmit disease once they bite your pet, so if you wait until you see one, it may already be too late! Most quality tick preventions begin working on your pet quickly, and often will kill the tick before it has a chance to transmit disease if used as directed. However, not all tick products are good quality, and many of them that are used for dogs are toxic and life-threatening to cats, so never use the same product on both without consulting your vet first. Most of the tick preventions we can recommend that are oral, kill ticks within a few hours. There are some topical preventions/collars that can repel ticks and can prevent the attachment of the tick, therefore preventing the transmission of the disease. It is important if your pet is at high risk of tick exposure that you consider a multimodal approach at tick prevention, including a repellent and a product that kills. Your vet will always recommend the best and safest forms of tick prevention for your pets so seek their help today.