July 2023 Issue of St. Johns Magazine

Your family deserves A-rated, nationally ranked care.

From delivering babies to life-saving heart and cancer care, Baptist Medical Center South provides the award-winning care you deserve.

Baptist South is A-rated in safety, an achievement we’ve received seven consecutive times. And, based on consumer feedback, we’ve consistently achieved patient experience scores in the 90th percentile.*

We offer all your family needs in one place:

• 24/7 emergency care for adults and children

• Maternity care that moms choose most

• Cancer care from Baptist MD Anderson

• Minimally invasive and robotic surgery

• 30+ specialties, including cardiology, orthopedics, neurology and gynecology

• Screening and diagnostic imaging

Your health is our top priority since opening nearly two decades ago. And it’s a promise we’ll keep for years to come.

*Press Ganey, 2023

To find a doctor near you, call 202.4YOU.

14550 Old St. Augustine Road

Jacksonville, FL 32258

Interstate 95 Exit 335

baptistjax.com/south

MENTON, BALLOU & THARP

George L. Ballou II

About

$40+ Million Club

*sold in 2022

Top Transactions & Volume

*Large Teams in 2022

Menton, Ballou & Tharp Group

Learn How Dedication, Knowledge and Experience is the key for this Powerhouse Engel & Völkers First Coast Real Estate Team

circumstances and outcomes compared. The last two years were unique and can not be used to compare.

Now things are getting back to normal. Buyer demand is still strong, and appreciation has normalized. We need to assist buyers and sellers in keeping the proper perspective.

The other important factor to remember is real estate is local and that is what we need to focus on, not on the national news. Our inventory is low, sellers right now have a big advantage, but its key to list at a competitive list price and have the house “show ready”. Using a stager for us is vital.

AngelA ThArp Thoughts on Current Market

The pandemic changed real estate over the last few years. The needs of a buyer changed. The rates were at a historic low, and home values reached high levels of appreciation. We need to set those years aside, in order to make sense of the present market.

Comparing real estate from one year to another can be challenging in a normal housing market. There are so many variables that can impact the

We as real estate advisors want to assist sellers or buyers every step of the way, that is our passion. Connect with one of US so you have the insights you need to make the best possible move today.

lisA Menton Why List or Buy with Us?

One of the biggest reasons we moved to Engel and Vöelkers was because of the incredible technology offerings. One of the strongest features for me was the premise List Local - Sell Global. E&V has designed a back end program that shares our listings with not only the local/national websites we are all familiar with, but international sites which provide true global exposure for our sellers allowing them to have the most buyer views possible, resulting in the biggest success for them.

We are always open to hearing from experienced agents who want to join our team!

...everything our brand and our group does is designed to achieve success for our customers. We are all very dedicated full-time Realtors.

-Lisa Menton

Jamie Ballou

When I meet with a new customer it is essential that I be a good listener. Everything starts with knowing what the customer’s goals are.

Bonny Davis

My priority is to find you (my customer) a home, not just a place to live.

John McClure

A career process improvement advocate, customer service has always been my top priority.

Renee Bromm

Honest, hardworking, and I get the job done!

Examples of local/national sites would be Zillow and Realtor.com, as well as the Wall Street Journal, and The New York Times. There are several international sites also, Juwai.com for example serving the Asian markets.

This fact along with the possibility that a home listed for sale with us in St. Johns Golf and Country Club for example could show up in an E&V shop window in Aspen, Germany, Italy or Switzerland! Or on our own E & V Shop TV featured in all of our offices around the world.

E&V offers very strong marketing assistance to us so we can focus on what’s truly important, making sure our customers are well cared for and strongly represented.

When a seller chooses Menton, Ballou and Tharp Group within E&V we like to leave no stone unturned, your home is featured on the local Home Connect TV, in

David Kenyon

I am a detailed and diligent agent in all real estate transactions for both buyers and sellers.

Jody Steele

I find out how people live their life. Do they fish, golf, enjoy the beach, more urban living etc., then I find an area and a home that fits their lifestyle.

Stella Alexander

I learned at an early age the importance of listening to the needs of others, responding in a helpful manner, and always delivering a level of customer service and awareness to exceed expectations.

l. BAllou, ii

What Is The Benefit of Being On Or Using A Team?

I have been in the residential real estate business for 37+ years and I never really gave much thought to being on a Team. About 7 years ago I decided, along with Lisa Menton and more recently with the addition of Angela Tharp, to give it a try.

Lesley Barlow

Providing valuable guidance and advice to help you make decisions that are best for your family.

massive post card mailers for our New to Market listings blanketing the nearby area, often a buyer can be found just around the corner. Email blasts alerting local agents about new listings, in our social media posts, in the St. Johns Magazine where we have held the inside front cover for years, this publication alone reaches over 16,000 homes monthly. I am proud to say everything our Brand and our Team does is designed to achieve success for our customers. We are all dedicated full time Realtors.

Buyers who select one of us to represent them will be in very good hands, we are all seasoned agents who are very familiar with the area, whether the buyer is looking for a brand new home or a resale home. It is very important for both sellers and buyers to select a Realtor who is familiar with the current market trends. We feel very strongly that this is the best way to serve the customers who we are privileged to work with.

I had come to realize over time that there is a tendency as an agent, especially a seasoned agent, to think you know everything you need to know to get the job done. Whether it’s getting listings, finding buyers or saving deals… you never know everything. Changing markets present different problems and opportunities which require different solutions than what I might have done in the past.

A select team of other agents working together helps maximize the benefit of years of different experiences which is useful to each of us as agents and especially beneficial to our clients. When we are together and sharing our thoughts the answer to every problem we face is in that very room. We learn from our collective successes and failures to continually evolve into a better, wiser more creative group of professionals. I find it very comforting to be able to call or be called by any of the agents of the Menton, Ballou & Tharp Group to discuss a situation that needs a different perspective, encouragement or a firm stance. It works for me…

george

AND THE WINNERS ARE....

HELP

Best Home Builder

Ever heard a horror story about someone’s home? It’s possible that lackluster builders set homeowners up for failure. Look to Master Craft Builders for a high-quality abode, like the ones in Shearwater and Oxford Estates, Silver Leaf, and Trailmark. Readers also liked Toll Brothers, home builders dedicated to quality materials, timeless design, and next-level luxury. Dreamfinders offers homes with beauty and innovation.

Best Interior Designer

Best of the Best 2023 Home

Turn your home into a residence worthy of Architectural Digest. Readers had a few favorite local designers equipped with style and the ability to listen, including Donna Haley Designs, Specializing in residential design and remodeling.

Pool Company

Dreaming of your own personal backyard oasis centerpiece? Agua Pools, Breakwater Construction, and Eagle Pools were given the thumbs-up by our readers.

Best Garden & Patio Designers

For a dream-like patio design try reader favorite River Stonework: their in-house team specializes in providing customer-driven solutions reflecting high-quality workmanship. Designing a Garden that connects people and nature, beauty and joy is the goal of reader-recommended Ruah Gardens. “Working with a focus on sustainable practices and a love of Florida native plants, the experienced team at Ruah Gardens is passionate about making your dream outdoor space come to life.” Readers also like Atlas Pavers, where they combine superior quality service with affordable prices to create stunning designs.

Best Landscaping

Mad Bacon Landscaping is a favorite among readers. “We are your neighbors here in St. Johns! Ours is a small, family-owned landscape company that takes care of the dirty work so you don’t have to.” Readers also suggest Curbscapes, and Heritage Group Landscapes.

Best House Cleaning

If you would rather free up some personal time and let someone else clean your abode, Readers love First Coast Green Clean best.

US CELEBRATE THE BEST OF THE BEST AS RECOMMENDED BY OUR READERS.

Shopping & Play

Best Boutiques

St. Johns has a few local boutiques, but how do you know which shop stocks the best stuff? According to readers, Makk Fashions in JCP has the best clothing, accessories, and more. If you desire the perfect gift or some upscale fashions look no further than Market Street Boutique in Palencia for inspiration. For home furnishings, our readers recommend Echo in Bartram Walk, JCP, described as “a boutique experience for your home, discover an everchanging selection of decor, furniture, and gifts”.

Best Furniture Store

Whether you’re looking for a unique piece of furniture or want to overhaul your whole home, there’s a furniture store for that. The knowledgeable staff at J Turner and Co. Design will assist, Some double as interior designers there to help customers craft their space with special pieces from their collection. Many have heard of Woodchucks Furniture for its reputation and quality. Currently, in the hands of its second-generation owners, the staff is committed to the company’s legacy of quality and integrity.

Best Family Activities

Local families in St. Johns are active and love natural settings best. Some reader recommendations include Amelia Island Neptune Beach, Micklers, AMC Durbin, Freedom Boat Club, Beachwalk Lagoon, Hannah Park

Best Antique Store

The Hands down favorite is Sugar Bear just off 13N. Prepare to be transported to another time and place as you wander the isles for hours. Also recommended was Bayard Antique Mall on Route 1.

Best Art Gallery

Readers’ favorite art galleries included Cummer Museum, Cutter & Cutter Fine Art, John Beard Art Gallery. For the best local artists readers love the St. Augustine Art Association with revolving exhibits throughout the year.

Best Day Trips

Two and a half hours in either direction from St. Johns and you could go to Disney or Savannah for a fun day trip. If you are not keen on driving too far try beautiful St. Augustine, America’s most historic small city.

Best Cup of Coffee

Readers say if you want some good coffee and treats combined with good customer service try Brass Tacks in JCP, 1928 Cuban Cafe on CR210 West, Pour Mike’s Coffee House off CR210 near Beachwalk.

Best Margarita

What is better than a Margarita on a hot summer day? Readers say Los Portales, Peppers, and Cantina Louie are the best places to find this delicious drink of summer.

Health & Fitness

Best Health Club/Gym

There’s no better time than summer to start sweating it out. After all, you want to be beach body ready through Labor Day. Readers love our local YMCAs, located throughout the county and each one offers its own lineup of group classes, personal training schedules, and plenty of fitness equipment. Another hot workout place for readers is Training for Warriors in Bartram Walk in Julington Creek where you can “accomplish what you never thought possible” with a focus on losing fat, gaining muscle, and strength training.

Best Children’s Gymnastics

Parents flip for this local gymnastics hot spot. World Golf Gymnastics comes highly recommended by readers. “We provide love and encouragement while inspiring kids to develop self-esteem and confidence through gymnastics. We offer a wide variety of classes including tumbling, preschool, parent and tot, and of course gymnastics at the recreational and competitive level”.

Best Veterinary Clinic

When a beloved pet is ill, they can’t tell you where it hurts or how long they’ve felt sick. That’s why you need a quality veterinarian to correctly diagnose your pet. Dr. Deckard and the staff at Pets R Family Veterinary Hospital provide only the most advanced care to the furry friends of St. Johns, with their extensive services including surgical, dentistry, dermatology, and more, as well as boarding and grooming. Readers also love Dr. Esra at Nease Animal Hospital is a Certified

Veterinary Acupuncturist (CVA), a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT), and a Certified Spinal Manual Therapist and has a special interest in Chinese Herbal Medicine.

Best Family Physician

Our readers chose Dr. Donald Levine (Baptist Primary) when it comes to their healthcare. “He listens to his patients and includes their perspectives in the care he provides. He enjoys getting to know the families he treats.” Readers also love Dr. Richard Townsend (Flagler Health), and Dr. Allison Mabus (Ascension),

Best Dentist

Dr. Lewis and Dr. Barlow at Bartram Dental Center near Grumpy’s on CR210 East are wellloved by readers. “Patients receive exceptional, gentle services centered on building strong, beautiful smiles. Bartram Dental dedicates our efforts to improving the dental health of patients in St. Johns, FL.” In World Golf Village you will find another reader favorite, Polished Dental, a Veteran-owned full-service dental practice, providing cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry.

Best Orthodontist

Those pesky braces may be a challenge, but with the right doctor in charge of the process a beautiful smile is close at hand. Expert orthodontic care comes from experience and customer service, two things you can expect from reader-recommended Smiles by Glenos and Hadgis in JCP & St. Augustine, “Our mission is to provide each and every patient with the highest quality, most affordable orthodontic services available anywhere in a manner that makes the entire experience a pleasure”. Another option readers love is Dr. Henry at Henry Advanced Orthodontics off CR210 West. “He treats everyone like family and ensures the best long-term outcomes for their dental health”.

Services

Best Auto Repair

Looking for reliable and trustworthy services for all your vehicle’s needs? Our readers love Tuffy’s in JCP & Mr. Benchwrench on 13N.

Best Golf Cart Dealer

For the best products and customer service in our community readers love family-owned Mad Bacon Golf Carts on 210 West near St. Johns Golf and Country.

Best Photographers

If you want a top-notch photographer go to Ozzy Trevino Photography. His impeccable work speaks for itself, whether you are looking for personal, professional, or artistic photography. You’ll also want the best photographer to capture cherished memories of your children through the years. Families of St. Johns trust Mindy Kerr at Nature’s Child Photography to capture these moments. Mindy takes advantage of the region’s natural beauty, using outdoor light and surroundings to enhance family photos, as well as in-studio stylized photography. Some other reader recommendations include Rachelina Marshall Photography and MColichio Photography.

Best Day Spas

Go ahead, pamper yourself. Readers love Massage Green in JCP with its expert massages and facials, a couples room & more. Ponte Vedra Inn and Spa was a reader favorite. With its world-class quality, the Spa offers an extensive menu of over 100 beauty and body treatments, a comprehensive mix of the familiar and the exotic. If you are looking for a medical spa, look no further than reader favorite, Amason Aesthetics where they seek to enhance your natural beauty and give you the confidence that you need and deserve with services including hydrafacials, microneedling, dermal filling, and hair restoration. Readers also enjoy The Spa at Bartram Walk.

Best Hair Salons

Head into summer with a new look. Get perfectly coiffed at perennial favorite, Brush Salon on 210 West. Looking for a combination of luxury and nature for your styling experience? Try readerrecommended Frangipani Salon in JCP. “At Frangipani, we bring the ease, warmth, and joy of beachside life—and the recognition of nature’s ability to heal and transform—to every service.” Need an alternative? Get inspired by stylists at Salontique or Willow Salon

Best Accountant

Readers recommend Lamar Wheeler at Wheeler & Associates. They have been in business for 40 years in Jacksonville and possess extensive experience in all areas of accounting.

SURVIVOR

The YMCA Helped Me Face My Cancer Diagnosis

by Brenda Hughes cancer survivor who participated in LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA,

My life changed two years ago when I went in for an annual mammogram with my primary care doctor. The test came back abnormal so they scheduled another one; same thing – abnormal. My doctor then ordered a biopsy and called me when the results came back.

“Ms. Hughes, you have cancer,” she said. I couldn’t believe it. Stage 3 breast cancer.

What followed was a flurry of tests, treatments, and surgery. I underwent 13 weeks of chemotherapy and six weeks of daily radiation. The process took a toll on me, both physically and mentally, and every time I went to the doctor, I cried.

Things finally began to turn around during a meeting with my social worker. She was looking for programs that could help me through the cancer treatment process when she found LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA. We decided to give it a chance and I’m so glad that I did.

The program is a free, 12-week long course that helps adults reclaim their health and well-being following a cancer diagnosis. Everyone in there knows what you’re going through, which creates such a welcoming environment. That was big for me because I had never been in a gym or exercised on that type of equipment before. I was the type of

person who sat at home. I’ll admit I was nervous at first, but the program gave me a chance to get my muscles and joints back together and talk to people.

What I really liked about the program was that it wasn’t just about the exercises. We got to go into the heated pool, focused on our nutrition, and even practiced meditation, which was really nice.

The trainers also made the whole process so pleasant. They were with you every step of the way and guided you through each exercise and activity. I can remember the first time I got on a treadmill. My trainer, Sarah, stood right next to me and we took it slow at first until I got to a point where I could go a little faster. That meant so much to me.

Over the span of the 12-week program, I didn’t miss a single day. I had something to look forward to every time. I got my mobility back. I got my sense of humor back. I wasn’t crying or lonely as much. It truly was a godsend.

If you’re going through

cancer treatment or your cancer is in remission, I can’t recommend this program enough. Wherever you are in your journey, the LIVESTRONG® trainers will guide you through the program and help you live a healthy lifestyle. Plus, you’ll develop a strong sense of community with people who know exactly what you’re going through. What more can you ask for?

You don’t have to be a YMCA member to register for LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA and you and your family receive a free YMCA membership for the duration of the 12-week program when you register. To do so, please email myhealth@fcymca. org.

Author Brenda Hughes (second from right)

As a therapist, I help clients from all walks of life feel, function, and communicate better; teaching them the skills they need to access their own resiliency and strength, empowering them to be their own best advocates and to mindfully create the lives they desire.

July

Fun Things to do

Please call to confirm before driving long distances as some times and details may vary

July 4th

Fireworks & Bioluminescent

Kayak Tour

Watch fireworks light up the sky while the enchanting bioluminescence dances in the water below. This extraordinary spot offers an exclusive vantage point to enjoy the fireworks display downtown St. Augustine, as well as numerous private displays along the beach leading to Guana Lake. Professional guides from GeoTrippin and Earth Kinship will lead the tour, sharing their expertise and captivating stories to make this experience truly unforgettable. Kayaks will be provided by North Guana Outpost and Earth Kinship. And the Friends of the GTM have provided special access exclusively for North Guana Outpost to host this extraordinary event. Limited spots are available to witness the magical combination of fireworks and bioluminescence on the 4th of July! The tour is from 8-10 p.m. and tickets are $65 per person. 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach. 904-701-3272 www. geotrippin.com.

July 4th

Fireworks from the top of the Lighthouse

Climb and enjoy the St. Augustine fireworks from the top of the St Augustine Lighthouse. The tour starts at 9 p.m. and tickets are $50. Space is very limited so book early! 100 Red Cox Dr., St. Augustine. 904-829-0745 www. staugustinelighthouse.org

July 4th

Jax Beach Fireworks

Fireworks will be launching from the pier (504 1st St. N.) at 9 PM with a "test" shot at 8:45. The Pier will be closed in preparation for the event starting at 4PM on July 2. The Pier parking lot will be closed to all vehicles all day on July 4th but can be used to view the fireworks.

July 7th

First Friday Art Walk

Join Art Galleries of St. Augustine from 5-9 p.m. for new exhibits, refreshments and live music at many participating galleries. Shuttle service that runs from 6-9 p.m. provided by Old Town Trolleys. To use this service, shuttle stickers may be picked up at any participating AGOSA gallery. Shuttles can be boarded at any of the following stops: in front of Butterfield Garage and ArtBox, the Lightner Museum, Aviles Street, as well as in front of Bold Art Gallery near Hypolita Street.* Tour maps are available at participating galleries or online. 904-824-2310 www.staaa.org/art-galleriesof-st-augustine

Artwalk - Old Historic District

First Friday artwalk at FOUR of St Augustine's Finest Art Galleries, Ancient City Art Gallery, Aviles Gallery, Georgia Nick Gallery and Plum Gallery can't wait to welcome you in to browse the art of MANY local artists and add to their art to your own art collections! If handmade pottery appeals to you, then you'll want to make sure to visit Jenzen Pottery, especially since the proprietor, Ken Jensen

and his band provide amazing music, that fills the street all night long!

July 7th

Frida Kahlo Night

Lost Art Gallery will feature original photographs of world renown artist Frida Kahlo, taken by international photographer Fritz Henle in the 1930s - 40s. Join us from 5-9 p.m. for a vibrant night filled with sangria, live music, and joyous ambiance to celebrate and honor Frida and view a side of her that few people have yet to see! 210 St. George St., Suite C-1, St. Augustine. 904-827-9800 www. lostartgallery.com

July 7th

First Friday Garden Walk at Washington Oaks

Join a Ranger on the First Friday of every month for a garden walk. Learn about the history of Washington Oaks while exploring the formal gardens. The walk starts in the Garden parking lot at 10 a.m. and is approximately one hour. No registration required. Walk included with park entry fee of $5 per vehicle. 6400 N. Oceanshore Blvd., Palm Coast. 386-446-6783 www.washingtonoaks.org

July 7th, 8th & 9th

Sugar Bear Porch Sale

July Porch Sale with so many unique, handmade, vintage, and overall fantastic treasures! 3047 Julington Creek Rd, Jacksonville

July 8th

Dolphin Walk at Vilano Beach

Join a St. Johns County Master Naturalist and Marineland Dolphin Adventure for a guided beach walk to learn about the dolphins in our area. This free walk leaves from the Vilano Beach Pavilion, reservations required. 2752 Anahma Dr., St. Augustine. 904-209-0752 www.sjcfl.us/recreation

July 8th

Dancing Stars of SJC

An annual fundraiser benefiting St. Augustine Community School of Performing Arts (SACSPA), this event includes a dance competition among local celebrities who pair up with professional dance instructors from Arthur Murray Dance Centers and perform in front of a panel of judges. Following the competition attendees enjoy a professional show with the championship dancers from Arthur Murray Dance Centers. A silent auction and SACSPA student performances begin in the lobby at 5 p.m. and auditorium doors open at 6 pm. Show starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets available online. Students/$15, General Admission/$25, VIP Reserved $55. Flagler College Lewis Auditorium, 14 Granada St., St. Augustine. www. sacspa.org

July 9th

Sundays At Stetson’s at Beluthahatchee Park

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

July 12, 13th & 14th

Shark Tooth Exploration

Join the St. Johns County Parks and Rec team on the beach to hunt for sharks’ teeth! Learn about sharks and some tips and tricks to finding these keepsake treasures. This program is free; however, registration is required. Trips leave from Mussallem Beachfront Park at 10 a.m. 3365 Coastal Highway, Vilano Beach. www.sjcfl.us/recreation

July 14th & 15th

The Bard’s Bus Presented by APEX Theatre

APEX Theatre studios presents the Twelfth Night on the Backyard Stage at The AMP. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. to allow guests to enjoy local food trucks, concessions (bar included), and music from two local North Florida bands: The Willowacks (July 14) and Folk Is People (July 15.) Music will start at 7 p.m. each night. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are $21. 1340 A1A S., St. Augustine. 904-209-0367 www.theamp.com

July 20th

St. Augustine Wine Walk

Presented by Casa de Vino 57. Walk through the ancient city with us and sample dozens of specialty wines from around the world while exploring some of our favorite local shops and boutiques. Start at our beautiful wine bar and garden and make your way to six of our favorite local stops to shop and sample a unique selection of boutique wines at each store.Then, head back to Casa de Vino to take home your favorite wines by the bottle and enjoy another drink or two in the courtyard and listen to live music. 6-8pm. Tickets are

July 15th

Nocatee Farmer’s Market

Activities, shows, and demonstrations for the entire family. This market offers a wide variety of selections including the freshest locally grown produce and herbs as well as homemade jams, jellies, home-baked goods, hand-stitched quilts, plants, art, and pottery items. Nocatee Station Field, 400 Nocatee Center Way, Ponte Vedra. www.facebook. com/NocateeLiving

July

15th

Vilano Beach

Artisan Market Walk

From 4-8 p.m. along the sidewalks near the Vilano Beach Pier. Local artisan-made items, plants, home décor, datil pepper sauces, and much more. Free parking and admission.

Vilano Beach Pier, 259 Vilano Rd., St. Augustine. www.vilanobeachfl.com

Palm Valley Market:

The Palm Valley Market is held every Tuesday year round, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 148 Canal Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach in the Palm Valley Community Center. The Market features organically grown fresh produce, Grass-fed beef, Mayport Shrimp, Whole-grain breads, Natural soaps and lotions, local honey, custom jewelry, gourmet treats for people and dogs, plants, candles, local artists and more. For more information, email Leslie, info@NewDaySoap. com.

$35 and include a stemless custom Wine Walk tasting glass. Casadevino57.com

JULY

Summer Music Events

July 16th

Bare Naked Ladies with Five for Fighting Gates open at 5 p.m. Show starts at 6 p.m. Tickets are $44-$129. 1340 A1A S., St. Augustine. 904-2090367 www.theamp.com

July 7th

BetterDays at TAPS 8:30 PM Taps Bar & Grill | St. Johns

July 27th

Live Music at the Sainte-George

A fabulous evening of live music in our beautiful upstairs dining room! Enjoy craft cocktails, seasonal draft beers, an extensive wine list, plus delicious food! This evening we will be serenaded by Yael Dray and her acoustic guitar. Book your reservation on Open Table. 1 Saint George St, Saint Augustine, Florida 32084 (904) 429-9345

July 27

Googoo Dolls at the AMP

Multi-platinum, four-time GRAMMY-nominated rock band Goo Goo Dolls have revealed the details

for their The Big Night Out Tour with O.A.R. The massive summer 2023 tour will kick off includes a stop at The St. Augustine Amphitheatre on Thursday, July 27. Gates open at 5 p.m., show starts at 6 p.m. Tickets are $29.50-$99.50. 1340 A1A S., St. Augustine. 904-209-0367 www.theamp.com

July 30th

Dueling Pianos at Iggy’s

Tom Bennett and Ariel Vegodsky tickle the ivories and sing all of your favorite tunes! Sing along and come be a part of the show ! 4pm 104 Bartram Oaks Walk Ste 101, Fruit Cove, FL, United States, Florida (904) 209-5209 iggysgrill.com

Various Dates

Concerts in the Plaza

6-8 pm, Plaza de la Constitución, 170 Cathedral Place, St. Augustine, FL 32084 (904) 825-1004

https://www.citystaug.com/657/Concerts-in-thePlaza

July 6 | Bedrock Band | 80's Hairband Rock

July 13 | Red Level Band | Classic & Alternative Rock

July 20 | The Committee | Rock, R&B

July 27 | Sauce Boss | Florida Swamp Blues

pets r family

suzanna berry

2023 Veterinary Practice Manager of the Year

Pets R Family is very excited to announce that Suzanna Berry has been awarded “2023 Practice Manager of the Year” by the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VMHA). Suzy has been an integral part of our family-owned practice for the past 3 years, and has done an amazing job positively impacting our culture, our employees and our clients. Her groundbreaking work has allowed Pets R Family to become the first and only Veterinary Hospital approved by the United States Military’s SkillBridge program, helping support and train veterans as they retire from service and transition into careers in Veterinary Medicine. Suzy’s hard work has had a wonderful impact in our workplace and in the lives of United States Veterans. Join us as we commend Suzy’s incredible accomplishments and celebrate her national recognition with the VHMA!

we’re your other family doctor

Pets R Family is a family-owned, full-service Veterinary Hospital nestled in a private and serene wildlife preserve right here in St. John’s. Our team of doctors, technicians, and customer service members believe in treating all pets with love, care, and compassion.

• State-of-the-art medical facility

• Experienced team of compassionate doctors and veterinary technicians

• Same-day sick appointments & home visits available

• Full pharmacy

• Teeth cleanings and dentistry

• Specialty care including ultrasounds, thermal imaging, cancer detection, & K-Laser treatments

• Premium veterinary-grade pet food

ask for brad deckard, practice owner, for behind-the-scenesa tour!

by Dr. Deckard, DVM, Pets R Family

Heartworms The Right Prevention is Key

Summer is here, and the warm, humid weather is in our area full time – and so are the mosquitoes. Just like they do to humans, mosquitoes also feed on our pets, and in doing so they can transmit a dangerous parasite to them that can cause serious illness and even death: heartworms.

Understanding Heartworms

Adult female heartworms living in an infected animal, produce microscopic baby worms called microfilaria that circulate in the bloodstream. When a mosquito bites and takes a blood meal from an infected animal, it picks up these baby worms, which mature into “infective stage” larvae over a period of 10 to 14 days. Then, when the infected mosquito bites another animal, the infective larvae are deposited onto the surface of the animal's skin and enter the new host through the mosquito’s bite wound. Once inside a new host, it takes approximately 6 months for the larvae to mature into adult heartworms. Once mature, heartworms can live for 5 to 7 years in dogs and up to 2 or 3 years in cats – and during that time, they can cause significant damage and disease.

Prevention

Heartworm prevention is paramount for our pets, and it should always be given year-round to both cats and dogs. They work by killing the heartworms in the larval stage before they reach the heart.

There are several options for prevention, and all are relatively inexpensive.

Many of the preventatives have remained the same over time, but several have been added over the last years. At the same time, heartworms have also evolved. What’s important to know is that we have recently discovered a new strain of heartworms that has become resistant to some of the most common preventatives that we use. This is very alarming. These resistant heartworms have been primarily found in the Mississippi River Valley area, however with heartworm infected dogs being transported to other areas, these heartworms are starting to pop up in other regions of the country.

So which prevention is best? Some recent studies have shown that moxidectin specifically has increased efficacy against these known resistant heartworms. This drug is found in Simparica Trio and ProHeart and these products were shown to have the best killing action against these parasites. Ivermectin and milbemycin failed to demonstrate consistent efficacy against these resistant worms.

Dogs

If your dog gets heartworms, there is treatment for it. Adulticide heartworm treatment takes two months to complete, is expensive, and can have some potentially serious side effects.

Alternatively, a dog can have the “slow kill” treatment by using the monthly prevention and allowing the heartworms to live out their life cycles, but this is not in the best interest of the dog because the heartworms continue to cause damage during that time. The “slow kill” method is not recommended by the American Heartworm Society.

Cats

For cats, unfortunately, there is no adulticide treatment that is safe. If your cat gets heartworms and is lucky enough to survive long enough to be diagnosed, careful medical management of symptoms is needed. Some cats do ultimately survive, but irreparable damage will often occur. Heartworms present a serious health threat for our pets, whether your pet is inside only or goes outside.

Remember that it only takes one mosquito bite to cause an infection in an unprotected pet and either no prevention or missing just one dose of prevention can result in an infection in your pet. And if your pet happens to get the resistant strain of heartworm, the right prevention is key. Your veterinarian will guide you on the best products to use to protect your pet against this easily preventable disease, as you strive to provide your pet with a safe and healthy life quality.