Folio 2.0: Vol. 34, Iss. 8, January 20, 2021

DECEMBER 16, 2020

+ The Ark is a refuge for rescues

The Cummer welcomes a new leader The starkness of Lambeau Field

@FolioWeekly 1

2

NEW YEAR, WHO’S THIS?

VOLUME 35, ISSUE 1

1/20/21

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 04

FROM THE PUBLISHER

05

COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS

09

BEST OF JAX

22

THE POSTER

28

CULTURE + EVENTS

36

THE CROSSWORD

38

SPORTS

43

DEAR DUMBS

THE TEAM: JOHN M. PHILLIPS

JOHN ALOSZKA

PUBLISHER JMP@FOLIOWEEKLY.COM

CREATIVE DIRECTOR JOHNNY@FOLIOWEEKLY.COM

ISA BARRIENTOS

KERRY SPECKMAN

WRITER, MYSTIC ISA@FOLIOWEEKLY.COM

COPY EDITOR, SELFIE QUEEN KERRY@FOLIOWEEKLY.COM

SHELTON HULL

CASEY CRAIG

CONTRIBUTING WRITER STORIES@FOLIOWEEKLY.COM

CONTRIBUTING WRITER CASEY@FOLIOWEEKLY.COM

VINCENT DALESSIO

TERESA SPENCER

CONTRIBUTING WRITER VINCENT@FOLIOWEEKLY.COM

GENERAL MANAGER, AD GURU TERESA@FOLIOWEEKLY.COM

JOHN LAWLESS

PAIGE GARCIA

ILLUSTRATOR

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

BEHIND THE COVER Perhaps there was no better 2010s tradition than watching the golden-era comedy central lineup: Key

& Peele, Drunk History, Broad City, Inside Amy Schumer, Nathan for You and, of course, South Park. For this cover, we wanted to honor the golden era of Comedy Central by creating our own South Park, this time set in Jacksonville, illustrated by John Lawless (yes, another John!). Many of you may recognize our characters, but for the full list you can visit the Best of Jax preface, on page eight of this issue.

JOHN ALOSZKA, CREATIVE DIRECTOR

@FOLIOWEEKLY

FOLIOWEEKLY.COM 3

FROM THE PUBLISHER: JOHN M. PHILLIPS

175 PEOPLE WERE MURDERED IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE IN 2020.

Happy New Year. Ordinarily, this is where you would read

to give the victim her the property back if she would send him

clichés about it being a new year and new you, a fresh start for

some inappropriate photographs over the phone. Protests led to

Northeast Florida, and a brighter outlook on national politics and a

massive arrests, more brutality and mostly dropped charges by

worldwide pandemic. I could go on and on about how 2021 has to

the state attorney.

be better. It certainly should be. There is a lot which is positioned better than what we have been dealing with the last year.

tweeted about how he allegedly uses his penis. We watched

Instead, let me do something we can look back on, a time

as fellow members of local media found evidence of massive

capsule, if you will. Things we can and, must, improve. Some

impropriety underlying the sale of the taxpayer’s greatest asset,

resolutions, if you will.

the Jacksonville Electric Authority, and now we wait and see how

Jacksonville saw 175 known victims of homicide in 2020,

much the Jacksonville Jaguars are going to require to remain

eclipsing last year’s number by almost 50. The 2019 total was

Jacksonville’s team. Meanwhile, Laura Street is a makeshift

the highest recorded murder total the city has seen over the last

homeless camp during the day and homeless line-up at 10 AM

20 years. Murder also was unfortunately high across our entire

every day to go from the street to the Main Public Library because

reading area. We all mourned Trent Fort, who was shot and killed

of a lack of alternatives.

in Nassau County. Meanwhile, the criminal justice system has

COVID has killed many in our reading area. We now have

substantially slowed do to the pandemic and inability to have jury

a vaccine, but far too few are getting it. Further, if you are 65

trials.

or older and want to get it, well, good luck getting through to

Controversy still surrounds policing. The St. Johns County Sheriff’s office was back in the national news as Deputy Anthony Deleo and others literally beat the pants off of an unarmed man while video recorded it. Video shows Deleo hitting Christopher Butler 19 times with his baton and kicking him in the head and face for almost four minutes according to the arrest warrant.

Meanwhile, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office had a man beaten in jail and the video mysteriously disappeared. Another officer was called to investigate a property theft and allegedly offered

4

The mayor tweeted about his penis while a city councilman

schedule an appointment as resources have prevented many from being able to actually obtain the first of two shots.

Heck, maybe I was wrong. Maybe it can only go up from here.

Maybe we hit rock bottom. Maybe.

THE MAIL

TICKETS

SUPPORT THE ARK WILDLIFE

ON SALE NOW

After I thought my holiday gift giving to local charities was over, I read your feature on The Ark in Hillard. As some one who loves nature and all who populate it I was motivated to send them a check. I intended to make them a regular when finances allow it.

Good luck with Foli,o it is not as easy to find a Folio as used to be, but I have a regular source at the Metro Diner in Ponte Vedra.

Another reason to go out for breakfast.

RICK MANSFIELD

BRICKBATS + BOUQUETS BRICKBAT TO JOHN RUTHERFORD Congressman John Rutherford has blood on his hands for the misinformation and fear he has injected into the U.S. politic. The storming of the Capitol complex in D.C. was not a random occurrence; it was the culmination of years of rhetoric and lies from politicians like Rutherford. He will go down in history as a coward and a failure on all counts.

BOUQUET TO MOCA JACKSONVILLE The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville is offering free admission to those who have been furloughed or lost their job due to COVID-19. Art should be accessible to all, and considering the mental toll that COVID-19 has taken on our communities, a relaxing trip to the museum sounds refreshing.

BRICKBAT TO WJXT’S ERIK AVANIER During an economic downturn and global pandemic, WJXT’s Erik Avanier found it appropriate to accost a man panhandling Downtown, and then publish the recording.

Sure, Avanier says there’s a safety issue, but interrogating a homeless person as to why they’re homeless isn’t journalism - it just lacks empathy. If you want to report on safety, report on Jacksonville’s violent crime rate instead.

THE COMMENT SECTION @QUESOWITHMEAT: “gtfo with this crap. homless bring down society. take a look around and talk to some of them, they only care about getting free stuff, doing drugs and getting drunk. downtown is a cesspool due to the homeless building their bumforts and crapping on the sidewalk. quit making excuses and condoning their behavior. the tax payers in jax deserve better. all youre doing is enabling these people.” @TOMCROOM: “Interesting that @FolioWeekly will run a #bestofjax with a ‘Best Bed and Breakfast’ category offering only ONE choice, but no local categories for geekcentric elements like @wasabicon, @videogamesrescue or @kegandcoin. I guess ‘Folio 2.0’ is ‘2’ cool for some of its culture.”

JANUARY 2021 16 SISTER HAZEL 23 BRIAN REGAN 30 AIR SUPPLY

28 LITTLE RIVER BAND WITH SPECIAL GUEST

LORDS OF 52ND STREET

JUNE 2021 3

HAPPY TOGETHER TOUR

13 18

BILL MAHER CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE:

FEBRUARY 2021 6 RODNEY CARRINGTON 11 EASTON CORBIN 20 THE WAILERS FEATURING JULIAN MARLEY 25 ABBA MANIA

MARCH 2021 12 GET THE LED OUT 17 CHRIS BOTTI 20 PABLO CRUISE AT PONTE VEDRA CONCERT HALL

FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS 23 KENNY G 23 JAKE SHIMABUKURO 21

AT THE WJCT SOUNDSTAGE

30 PINK MARTINI

APRIL 2021 2 10

1964 THE TRIBUTE BROTHERS AGAIN

17 21

MASTERCHEF JR. LIVE! ORLEANS

A CELEBRATION OF THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND

AT THE WJCT SOUNDSTAGE

THE BEATLES - SGT. PEPPER’S LONELY HEARTS CLUB BAND

24 JONNY LANG

JULY 2021 10

22 ONE NIGHT OF QUEEN 24 BRIT FLOYD: WORLD TOUR 2021

#IMOMSOHARD MOM’S NIGHT OUT ROUND 2!

22 REO SPEEDWAGON 24 POCO, FIREFALL AND PURE PRAIRIE LEAGUE

AUGUST 2021 27 GARY ALLAN

SEPTEMBER 2021 11 16

AN EVENING WITH

ALAN PARSONS LIVE PROJECT BONEY JAMES SOLID TOUR 2021

26 GEOFF TATE

30TH ANNIVERSARY OF EMPIRE & RAGE FOR ORDER

30 SYPRO GYRA AT THE WJCT SOUNDSTAGE

25 BRIAN CULBERTSON

MAY 2021

FEATURING THE TURTLES, CHUCK NEGRON, THE ASSOCIATION, MARK LINDSAY, THE VOGUES AND THE COWSILLS

OCTOBER 2021 9

NATE BARGATZE GOOD PROBLEM TO HAVE TOUR

904.355.2787 | floridatheatre.com 128 East Forsyth Street, Downtown Jacksonville Follow us for the latest event news ACCESSIBILITY: Please inform the ticket office of any special arrangements you may require when purchasing tickets. An assistive listening system for the hearing impaired is available from the House Manager. The wheelchair accessible bathroom is located to the right of the Entry Lobby Bar as you face the bar, to the left of the statue La Vergognosa.

The theatre does not have its own parking lot. Disabled permit parking is available on the street.

YELL AT US: MAIL@FOLIOWEEKLY.COM 01 January 2021 Ad.indd 1

1/6/2021 11:02:04 AM

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COMMUNITY NEWS SHELTON HULL

SHEER FORCE OF WILL THE EU MAGAZINE WILL JOIN THE FOLIO BRAND AFTER ITS INITIAL CLOSING

FOLIO, EU AND ENTERTAINER COVERS

By any appreciable standard, 2020 was, among other things, the worst year ever in the long, complex, storied history of print media in this country. Dozens of daily and weekly papers were closed, crippled or curtailed, from coast to coast, and Florida was no exception. Indeed, our community was hit harder than many with the shuttering of two long-standing pillars of print: Folio Weekly closed after publisher Sam Taylor retired, while EU finally ceased publication a couple years after the death of Will Henley, its publisher.

In July 2020, Folio Weekly returned to the stands—as a monthly publication. And at the end of 2020, Folio’s new parent company Boldland Press also acquired the rights to EU, which will be given a new life as a section of Folio. Of the dozens of print publications to die in recent years, alternative media sources like Folio and EU are among the very few to be reborn.

It’s hard to arrive at any strict definition of “alternative media” relative to mainstream. The Association of Alternative Newsmedia (AAN) exists as a sort of trade organization linking more than 130 6

papers around the U.S. and Canada. (There is even an AAN affiliate in Longyearbyen, Norway with a circulation of just 500 copies; not bad for a town of only 2,400 people.)

The most important role of “alt-weeklies” (also known as “altpubs” since some are no longer publishing weekly) has traditionally been to service parts of the larger community that struggled for representation in the mainstream press, which tends to skew conservative in regions like Jacksonville. Women, minorities and LGBTQ community, as well as musicians and artists, have all seen the bulk of their coverage come from the alternative press. In Northeast Florida, EU was a major player, thanks to Henley, who ran the paper for 17 years.

Will Henley was born September 23, 1951 in Jacksonville. From start to finish, the news business was an elemental presence in his life. His parents Grover and Gladys worked at The Florida TimesUnion and the Jacksonville Journal, prior to the papers’ merging in the 1980s. He worked as a photographer, and she was an archivist.

“”

STEPHEN DARE

THE MOST EXHAUSTIVE RECORD OF THE MUSICIANS, BANDS AND PERMUTATIONS OF MUSICAL GROUPS IN THE HISTORY OF JACKSONVILLE. THEY HAVE PROBABLY

Shirley Easters Wright worked alongside Grover for 30 years.

“He was a true professional and was admired and respected by everyone,” she said. “When the Times-Union was on Adams Street, paychecks were distributed from a window in the hallway, and many times Grover would have a chair there and tell me about his day.

Never do I remember a negative statement.”

Grover died when Will was still in high school. The paper offered to send him to South Dakota for photography school, but he didn’t want to go too far from his mom. He attended Florida Junior College (now FSCJ) briefly, then studied philosophy at East Carolina University before taking a job in advertising with May Cohens. He and his now-widow Shelley met in the late 1970s, married in 1981 and were joined soon after by daughters Rachel and Morgan, who would both start working at the paper as young adults.

EU’s predecessor The First Coast Entertainer, led by the late Tony Trotti, was well established in the local arts and entertainment scene by the time Will joined in 1991.

“One of the things that Trotti did, and a lot of the other publications did a shitty job of, was they interviewed and they TWO WOMEN HOLD COPIES OF THE ENTERTAINER

reviewed every single Jacksonville band,” said Stephen Dare, a local writer.

“They have probably the most exhaustive record of the musicians, bands and permutations of musical groups in the history of Jacksonville, I think, from the ’70s forward.”

When Trotti died of cancer in 2002, the Henleys rebooted the paper as Entertaining U. “Being an entertainment paper, we would often be getting information, literally the night before we went to print,” Shelley said. “So we were always on a tight schedule; all of our production would happen three days before distribution.”

The paper remained a weekly until 2008 at which point they adopted a monthly format, built up a stronger digital presence and changed the name, again, to EU (not to be confused with the rap group of the same name). Circulation figures fluctuated depending on the particular issue but peaked around 40,000.

As the Internet grew in popularity, EU quickly adapted.

Eventually, Shelley said, more people were reading the publication online than the physical paper itself. Will steered that ship through what had been, up to that point, the darkest days yet for print media. “[Will’s] main asset was his knowledge of Jacksonville and its audiences,” Shelley said.

“Jacksonville is notorious for being a walk-up city, where people buy their tickets at the last minute. He knew all the venues, inside and out,” Rachel added. “He never really wanted to be the center of attention.”

Will worked in other fields with an emphasis on entertainment, including movies and theater. In 1991, he helped create an indie wrestling organization, IWF (International Wrestling Federation) founded with Eddie Mansfield and operated out of Universal Studios in Orlando. He was also a minister.

“He was always into new ideas,” said Rachel, “and I think that’s what really helped him grasp what we did at the paper and what kept our advertisers so loyal. He had the ability to make [EU] a very special thing.”

The end came quickly.

“It was very sudden when [he] got sick,” Rachel said. The family 7

thought it was just a bad cold and had no idea he was terminally ill.

(To that, Will’s widow has one piece of advice: “If you smoke, and you have a cough, you should look into that.”)

He died in the saddle at Memorial Hospital on November 23, 2018, working on his deathbed and on the weekend, no less. He even sold three ads from the hospital the day before he died at the age of 67.

A lot of folks in such a situation would’ve shut down immediately, not wanting to deal with the stress and the sadness that comes from the memories surrounding them on all sides. But nope, not the Henleys.

There was never any question of the paper continuing, and it actually helped with the grieving process. Will’s responsibilities were divided up between Shelley, Rachel and her husband Nate. Though the final issue Will worked on came out a few weeks late, it still hit the stands, of course.

“It wasn’t the same without Will,” Shelley said, with sales being the hardest part, but they held on ferociously, until the choice was really no longer theirs.

“Every year, it [got] tougher and tougher,” said Shelley. Will’s loss was like a punch to the gut, but COVID-19 was the knockout blow.

“We did the good news,” said Shelley. “We didn’t mess with the wrecks or the crime or the politics. We always tried to keep things positive.” That spirit helped make EU an essential part of the city’s life and the Henley family beloved members of our community.

These days, Rachel has taken leave of the newspaper business and works in graphic design in the city’s Special Events department, a career not far removed from the family trade. The department has been a real workhorse for local culture in this era, and they benefit from her presence.

“One of the things that helps me with this work is that newspapers are such a multi-layered product,” said Rachel, who was also involved in the planning of GastroFest, a highly influential food event created to promote and elevate Northeast Florida’s food scene. “Being able to pull at multiple straws and put things together on the fly has proven to be a very useful skill.”

JOHN M. PHILLIPS AND HIS SON SCAN THE FOLIO ARCHIVE

SHELLEY AND RACHEL HENLEY

“” WE DID THE GOOD SHELLEY HENLEY

NEWS. WE DIDN’T MESS WITH THE WRECKS OR THE CRIME OR THE POLITICS. WE ALWAYS TRIED TO KEEP THINGS POSITIVE.

EU, much like the story of Folio itself, was all but history by last summer, but the intervention of John Phillips and his partners at Boldland Press has allowed for a new chapter to be written. When Phillips approached the Henleys about acquiring EU, they were instantly taken by his own family values and his obvious talent for promoting the community. “We wouldn’t have done this with anyone else,” Rachel said.

What this means is all of the work put in by Tony Trotti, Will Henley and their friends and families will continue—and give new generations access to the invaluable material they created.

To view the EU archives, scan the adjacent QR code with your phone camera or app.

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One-term Mayor Alvin Brown

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Melissa Ross

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Donna Deegan

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President Joe Biden

13

Gov. Ron DeSantis

2

Gardner Minshew

5

Christina Kittle

8

JoHanna Moresco

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Darryl Willie

14

Tommy Hazouri

3

Shad Khan

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Garrett Dennis

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Comm Nikki Fried

Embattled Mayor Lenny Curry

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PEOPLE OF JAX

THE PEOPLE YOU LOVED, AND LOVED TO HATE...

BEST LOCAL HERO

BEST MUSTACHE

MOST LIKELY TO JOIN THE CIRCUS

RUNNER UP: CHAD WEAVER

RUNNER UP: SHAD KHAN

RUNNER UP: DEREK DARLING

WORST LOCAL ZERO

BEST LOCAL PERSONALITY

BEST SPIRITUAL LEADER

RUNNER UP: AARON ZAHN (JEA)

RUNNER UP: GARDNER MINSHEW

RUNNER UP: PASTOR RYAN RITZMANN

BEST ENVIRO ADVOCATE

BEST LOCAL CRUSADER

BEST DRESSED

RUNNER UP: QUENTON WHITE

RUNNER UP: MELISSA ROSS

RUNNER UP: CARLISLE BRUNSWICK

BEST COMMUNITY ACTIVIST

BEST LOCAL WEIRDO

BEST NONPROFIT

RUNNER UP: HOPE MCMATH

RUNNER UP: LENNY CURRY

RUNNER UP: JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE

BEST PHILANTHROPIST

BEST FIRST RESPONDER

RUNNER UP: SHAD KHAN

RUNNER UP: KEITH WATSON

1ST PLACE, DONNA DEEGAN

1ST PLACE, LENNY CURRY

1ST PLACE, LISA RINAMAN

1ST PLACE, CHRISTINA KITTLE

1ST PLACE, WEAVER FAMILY

1ST PLACE, GARDNER MINSHEW

1ST PLACE, JOHANNA MORESCO

1ST PLACE, DONNA DEEGAN

1ST PLACE, JOHANNA MORESCO

1ST PLACE, LENNY CURRY

1ST PLACE, FR. STANISLAV KRAVLJACA

1ST PLACE, JOHANNA MORESCO

1ST PLACE, SERBIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH

1ST PLACE, LAKESHA BURTON

JACK OF ALL TRADES: DONNA DEEGAN

Donna Deegan shouldn’t have won Best Local Hero, Best Community Advocate or Next to Be Mayor of Jacksonville. It’s not that she doesn’t deserve all the accolades. It’s just that she shouldn’t be here to receive them.

One of Jacksonville’s most recognizable residents, Deegan spent 30 years as a TV reporter and anchor. She’s also a three-time cancer survivor, who believes there is no logical explanation for her still being alive.

Having stared death in the face on more than one occasion, however, is exactly what drives her to do the work she does and become the hero she is.

As a result of her own experiences, and her encounters with others battling breast cancer, Deegan founded The DONNA Foundation in 2003. Established to provide, assistance to individuals living with breast cancer, the nonprofit also helps fund breast cancer research. To date, The DONNA Foundation has provided $3.8 million in financial services and raised $3.3 million to support breast cancer research.

In 2019, she announced her candidacy for Florida’s fourth congressional district with universal healthcare being one of her top priorities. Unfortunately, her passion and experience were not enough to defeat incumbent John Rutherford in the heavily Republican district. But she remains committed to making healthcare for all a reality and has hinted she’ll make another run for office. But probably not for mayor.

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PHOTO BY DAN SANTONI

GOTH GOD: JOHANNA MORESCO Vampire vixen violinist. Say that three times fast, and save a Best of Jax award for each. Clothed in dark robes with a kind, sparkling soul, renaissance woman JoHanna Moresco takes home a triple-win this year. Moresco is best-known as the violinist for The Cruxshadows, a darkwave goth-pop band with a sound as unique and eclectic as she is.

Pursuing music with the band brought her to Jacksonville a decade ago and has taken her all over the world (out of Jacksonville International Airport) since.

Moresco grew up in rural Kansas, where she stayed true to her goth-kid dharma in spite of being bullied mercilessly for it. True to the DIY nature of the style, she thrifted, ripped, and safety-pinned her clothing, wearing combat boots and bold makeup. Over the years, she’s come into an elegant gothic style, though she still makes many of the pieces that she wears. She now calls Jacksonville her adoptive home, as the community here embraces and inspires her.

Mainstream culture has been biting off of goths for years, but the core of the scene is alive as ever thanks to characters like Moresco. She hosts dark alternative nights at Myth and 1904, creating a space for the community and expression that made her.

PHOTO BY JOHN ALOSZKA

BEST COMMUNITY ACTIVIST: CHRISTINA KITTLE In a year that saw chaos and tumult, we looked toward community—not civic—leaders to guide us through the times. It’s fitting, then, that Christina Kittle won Best Local Activist.

She’ll be the first to say that organizing is a team effort, but perhaps no one shares their passion, fury and ideas with more clarity or frequency than her, demanding city leaders to reform policing, take down confederate monuments, fund community programs and more.

While Folio covered the protests over the summer, Kittle’s passion struck a nerve with our writers. Listening to her describe the conditions of Jacksonville’s detention facility is harrowing but essential for people who have never experienced those spaces. These policies are life or death for Jacksonville’s communities, and it’s important to remember the effort, work and trauma that is involved in organizing.

Kittle, along with other influential and impactful figures in Jacksonville, graced the first cover of the Folio reboot; she deserved that placement and this award. Next time you attend a demonstration, community meeting or protest, thank an organizer. Their work progresses our city into a more safe and prosperous future.

PHOTO VIA THE RIVERKEEPER

ENVIRO ADVOCATE: LISA RINAMAN

Jacksonville’s soul flows through the St. Johns. The river runs up the center to the heart of the city, where it turns east to spill into the ocean. Riverkeeper Lisa Rinaman serves a sacred duty as the St. Johns’ chief protector - she’s spent the past eight years in her role advocating for the conservation and restoration of the river, going above and beyond to do what is right for it every day. Her connection with the river is striking: She fell in love with the magic of Florida’s waters while vacationing here as a kid and moved across the country in 1997 to live among them.

Good activism, she says, is backed by science and buoyed by engaged citizens. The St. Johns Riverkeeper has expanded to cover the entire basin under Rinaman’s direction, forming coalitions and alliances with other organizations to tackle critical issues more effectively. Rinaman works tirelessly to identify the needs of the vast and complex St. Johns River, working with legislators and in the community to push for better water policy, funding and education. At the beginning of the year, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and beat it through a global pandemic, while still improving and addressing new challenges to the organization. We’re glad to say that Rinaman is a survivor now, and thank her for her loving devotion to our dearest St. Johns. For the river!

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COMMENTARY

LENNY CURRY’S ANNUS HORRIBILIS In 1992, the Queen of England had her annus horribilis, a Latin phrase that translates to “horrible year.” With scandal after divorce after scandal after divorce, it looked like the British monarch’s realm was not only falling apart but on fire and dying.

This year, society, as a whole, experienced its own annus horribilis with leaders around the world feeling the stress. But for one local politician, the year of our Lord 2020 was especially horribilis. And that honor goes to Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry.

To recap, here are a few of the “highlights” of what Curry faced in 2020: > Yet another increase in the city’s homicide rate > Public fallout from the failed attempt to sell JEA, Northeast Florida’s not-for-profit, publicly-owned utility > An ongoing investigation by federal prosecutors and the FBI into the JEA Performance Unit Plan (PUP) which would have padded the pockets of senior JEA officials > The investigations and departures of multiple high-level city officials, including Aaron Zahn and Melissa Dykes (JEA), Ryan Ali (Sports and Entertainment Office) and Joe Peppers (Kids Hope Alliance) > The cancellation of the Republican National Convention in Jacksonville by President Donald Trump > The failure of LOT J to garner the supermajority needed to pass City Council.

Between his loss of authority as the city’s leader and the loss of respect and the trust of his constituents (with the sinking approval ratings to prove it), Curry seemed to fade into obscurity right before our eyes in 2020. And judging from his increasingly contentious interactions with the media and odd social media posts some might say, he’s also losing his grip.

It’s no surprise then that the mayor won two Best of Jax categories no one wants to win: Local Zero and Most Likely to Join the Circus.

We’ll leave the mayor with a quote from one of his favorite rappers to ponder in the new year:

MONEY AND POWER DON’T CHANGE YOU, THEY JUST FURTHER EXPOSE YOUR TRUE SELF. - JAY Z 12

We don’t treat John’s cancer, we treat John.

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IT’S IN THE NEWS

MAKING AND BREAKING...

BEST JOURNALIST

BEST COLUMNIST

BEST FACEBOOK GROUP

RUNNER UP: EMILY BLOCH

RUNNER UP: NATE MONROE

RUNNER UP: ONLYINDUVAL

BEST TV ANCHOR

BEST LOCAL BLOG

BEST COUNCIL MEMBER

RUNNER UP: VIC MICOLUCCI

RUNNER UP: DUVAL DINES BLACK

RUNNER UP: MATT CARLUCCI

BEST MORNING SHOW

WORST SUNSHINE VIOLATION

MOST LIKELY TO CHEAT TAXPAYERS

RUNNER UP: ACTION NEWS

RUNNER UP: LENNY CURRY

RUNNER UP: LENNY CURRY

BEST TV NEWSCAST

BEST RADIO BROADCASTER

BEST SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER

RUNNER UP: ACTION NEWS

RUNNER UP: MARK KAYE

RUNNER UP: LORI HERSHEY

BEST RADIO SHOW

BEST TWITTER

MOST LIKELY TO BE MAYOR NEXT

RUNNER UP: LEX & TERRY

RUNNER UP: DUVAL DINES BLACK

RUNNER UP: JOHN M. PHILLIPS

BEST WEATHER GURU

BEST INSTAGRAM

RUNNER UP: RICHARD NUNN

RUNNER UP: SUBCULTURE CORSETS

1ST PLACE, VIC MICOLUCCI

1ST PLACE, TENIKKA HUGHES

1ST PLACE, WJXT-CHANNEL 4

1ST PLACE, WJXT-CHANNEL 4

1ST PLACE, FIRST COAST CONNECT

1ST PLACE, MIKE BURESH

1ST PLACE, MARK WOODS

1ST PLACE, JAX RESTAURANT REVIEWS

1ST PLACE, JEA SCANDAL

1ST PLACE, MELISSA ROSS

1ST PLACE, ONLYINDUVAL

1ST PLACE, JCA FITNESS

1ST PLACE, TOMMY HAZOURI

1ST PLACE, DONALD J. TRUMP

1ST PLACE, DARRYL WILLIE

1ST PLACE, DONNA DEEGAN

1ST PLACE, ONLYINDUVAL

BEST SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER: DARRYL WILLIE

For over 15 years, Darryl Willie has served to work hard to enlighten and assist students across a variety of educational and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Willie holds impressive experience that ranges across the country, from working as a teacher to program director for Student Orientation (UC Berkeley) and the Teach for America program in Jacksonville. As a military child from a family of educators, Willie has learned to adapt quickly to many different communities and assist them, which also fostered his love for the education field. Since 2018, Willie has represented Duval’s District 4 (the Northside) and as the School Board Vice Chair, training tomorrow’s teachers and leaders for Title I schools. As an educator and representative of his city, who was named a Jacksonville Non-Profit Emerging Leader, his main goal is to be heavily involved with every community he’s a part of and aspires to make it more accessible, equitable and rewarding.

On the school board, he has been a vocal advocate for the renaming schools that bear the name of former Confederate generals and soldiers, a process that was unanimously approved to begin over the summer.

Willie won his election in 2018, defeating Cynthia Smith with 51.88 percent of the vote and assumed office in 2019.

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BEST COUNCIL MEMBER: TOMMY HAZOURI Tommy Hazouri was a one-term mayor, and his largest accomplishment from that time, removing toll roads, has since been voided by the expansion of Sun Pass. He’s been known to put his foot in his mouth, to not fully grasp parliamentary procedure and to get in brawls with as many Republicans as he does Democrats.

What’s clear, however, is that the Democratic council president is the one thing standing in between Lenny Curry and Lot J. Just as Anna Brosche had to expend her political capital stalling the sale of JEA during her presidency, Hazouri has found himself being the last line of defense in Jacksonville’s strong mayoral system of government. So much so that he reportedly went straight from a council meeting to the hospital to have surgery—he shortened his recovery time, as well.

With opposition against Lot J reasonably high, and publicity ever higher, it’s no shocker that he won Best Council Member in Best of Jax. Some call Tommy Hazouri an elder statesman; some people say he’s stuck in the past. What’s abundantly clear, though, is that the enemy of your enemy is your friend, and that’s put Council President Hazouri in good standing with voters and many civic leaders who have grown tired of the mayor’s dealings.

BEST TV ANCHOR: TENIKKA HUGHES Although known for her work with Jacksonville’s youth, Tenikka Hughes became a stalwart for equality throughout the pandemic. She has been dedicated to bringing Jacksonville breaking news for the last six years as anchor on Action News Jax’ evening report and is your 2020 Best of Jax Top TV News Anchor. She has a long list of accolades including the Florida Associated Press Broadcasters Award and multiple Emmy nominations but is most proud of the Edward R. Murrow Award for Overall Excellence in Large Market Television.

Committed to her community, she uses her platform to bolster marginalized groups.

Throughout the pandemic she’s brought awareness to how Covid-19 affected them directly and ways that the public can aid in their support. More specifically, she assisted in publicizing a virtual ramadan for local muslims, brought commerce to Black Businesses through the #BuyBlack Initiative and shared opportunities in the workforce specifically for women.

But of all demographics in Jacksonville she is most adamant about helping children. She regularly donates her time to visit schools and promotes youth literacy through her community service challenge “Tenikka’s Books for Kids.”The book drive collects literature for the Jacksonville Public Library to use during their Summer Learning Programs.

BEST COLUMNIST: MARK WOODS Mark Woods gives journalists a good name. Although a self-proclaimed Republican, the popular columnist with The Florida Times-Union writes from a moderate point of view and continually uses his platform to bring the bipartisan public together.

Woods consistently demonstrates his dedication to the great outdoors on a local level by advocating for a stronger park system and protection of natural spaces. But he doesn’t just talk the talk. He urged the community to better appreciate local nature by walking over 150 miles from the west end of Duval County to the east end, documenting his experience along the way.

No matter the subject, Woods makes it clear his priority is writing for the people of Jacksonville. In 2020, for example, he shared his opposition to hosting the Republican National Convention here and his disappointment with state leaders for their lackluster efforts in addressing public health issues. During the COVID-19 lockdown, he emphasized the importance of stepping away from stressors and into the natural world.

Because Woods stepped up for Jaxsons, you stepped up for him, choosing him as your pick for the Best Local Columnist.

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RETAIL, PETS, WEDDINGS, TOURISM AND DATE NIGHT

STIMULATE LOCALLY...

BEST ANTIQUE STORE

BEST RECORD STORE

BEST TATTOO STUDIO

RUNNER UP: 5 POINTS VINTAGE

RUNNER UP: ERASOR RECORDS

RUNNER UP: SEAS THE DAY TATTOO

BEST ART SUPPLIES

BEST SEX SHOP

BEST TATTOO ARTIST

RUNNER UP: MICHAELS

RUNNER UP: INSERECTIONS

RUNNER UP: ASHLEY WENTZLOFF

BEST BOOKSTORE

BEST SMOKE SHOP

BEST PIERCING STUDIO

RUNNER UP: SAN MARCO BOOKSTORE

RUNNER UP: A1A VAPORS

RUNNER UP: PURE IMAGINATION ARTS

BEST AUTO SHOP

BEST THRIFT STORE

BEST PIERCING ARTIST

RUNNER UP: LEXUS OF ORANGE PARK

RUNNER UP: HUBBARD HOUSE THRIFT

RUNNER UP: JON SALZER

BEST FLEA MARKET

BEST VAPE SHOP

BEST DISTILLERY

RUNNER UP: RAMONA FLEA

RUNNER UP: SMOKE & VAPE N’ CIGARS

RUNNER UP: ST. AUGUSTINE DISTILLERY

BEST LIQUOR STORE

BEST VINTAGE CLOTHING

BEST REALTY AGENCY

RUNNER UP: ABC FINE WINE/SPIRITS

RUNNER UP: WOLF & CUB

RUNNER UP: RIVER BIRCH REALTY

BEST JEWELER

BEST HANDYMAN

BEST REALTOR

RUNNER UP: KAY JEWELERS

RUNNER UP: ACE OF ALL TRADES

RUNNER UP: VICTORIA R. GALLANT

1ST PLACE, ECO RELICS

1ST PLACE, REDDI-ARTS

1ST PLACE, CHAMBLIN BOOKMINE

1ST PLACE, JJ’S AUTO CARE

1ST PLACE, RIVERSIDE ARTS MARKET

1ST PLACE, RIVERSIDE LIQUORS

1ST PLACE, UNDERWOOD’S

1ST PLACE, TIGER RECORDS

1ST PLACE, SUNSET NOVELTIES

1ST PLACE, STRANGE CLOUD

1ST PLACE, THE THRIFT STORE

1ST PLACE, BLACKHAT VAPOR

1ST PLACE, FIFI’S FINE RESALE APPAREL

1ST PLACE, MR. HANDYMAN

1ST PLACE, CAVAGNARO TATTOOS

1ST PLACE, LUIGI CAVAGNARO

1ST PLACE, UNTOUCHABLES TATTOO

1ST PLACE, KELLY BUSCHER

1ST PLACE, BURLOCK AND BARREL

1ST PLACE, FLORIDA HOMES REALTY

1ST PLACE, CYNDI MARKIS

BEST TATTOO ARTIST: LUIGI CAVAGNARO The Jacksonville metro-area has a long-standing history as being home to some of the greatest tattoo shops and artists in the world, catering to sailors, gym boys, hipsters and casual bucket list seekers alike. But if you’re seeking to get inked, look no further than Fernandina Beach’s own Luigi Cavagnaro. With a shop in his namesake, Cavagnaro has an impressive portfolio of tattoos ranging from tiny, minimalist black and white trinket-tats to hyper-pigmented and detailed full-color sleeves. If you’re feeling adventurous, many of his clients come in with their own ideas for him to bring to life til’ death. He’s also no stranger to the wide variety of styles tattooing has to offer including American traditional, neo-traditional, watercolor, hyper-realism, and much more. On top of that, Cavagnaro’s work extends to cover ups, so if you’ve been itching to get that embarrassingly bad or just embarrassingly embarrassing piece you’ve been hiding for ever fixed or covered for good, he’s your guy. It’s not skin deep, Cavagnaro’s got the chops and the guns to add some color to Duval. You can see more of his work on his instagram, @cavagnaro_tattoos.

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RETAIL, PETS, WEDDINGS, TOURISM AND DATE NIGHT BEST HAIR SALON

BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE

BEST ATTRACTION

RUNNER UP: HAWTHORN SALON

RUNNER UP: FRESH MARKET

RUNNER UP: FIVE POINTS

BEST HAIR STYLIST

BEST DOG OUTING

BEST BEACH

RUNNER UP: SAMANTHA ALDRIDGE

RUNNER UP: KANINE SOCIAL

RUNNER UP: NEPTUNE BEACH

BEST AD AGENCY

BEST PET ACCESSORIES

BEST HOTEL

RUNNER UP: THE DALTON AGENCY

RUNNER UP: PETSMART

RUNNER UP: OMNI AMELIA ISLAND

BEST TAILOR

BEST PET DAYCARE

BEST ONE TANK GETAWAY

RUNNER UP: MEN’S WEARHOUSE

RUNNER UP: PET PARADISE

RUNNER UP: SAVANNAH

BEST NAIL SALON

BEST PET GROOMER

BEST TOURIST SPOT

RUNNER UP: NAILED WITH PRIDE

RUNNER UP: PUPPY PALACE

RUNNER UP: CUMMER MUSEUM

BEST VIDEOGRAPHER

BEST PET BOARDING

WORST TOURIST TRAP

RUNNER UP: ADAM MADRID

RUNNER UP: KANINE SOCIAL

RUNNER UP: THE BEACH BARS

BEST CAR DEALERSHIP

BEST PET RESCUE ORG

BEST ROMANTIC NIGHT OUT

RUNNER UP: CLAUDE NOLAN CADILLAC

RUNNER UP: JACKSONVILLE HUMANE SOCIETY

RUNNER UP: ORSAY

BEST CREDIT UNION

BEST PET STORE

BEST MEAL WHEN YOU’RE NOT PAYING

RUNNER UP: NAVY FEDERAL

RUNNER UP: PETSMART

RUNNER UP: RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE

BEST LAWYER

BEST VETERINARIAN

BEST NIGHTCLUB

RUNNER UP: MORGAN & MORGAN

RUNNER UP: BELTWAY ANIMAL HOSPITAL

RUNNER UP: JAZZY’S RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE

BEST CARPET CLEANING

BEST BRIDAL WEAR

BEST LGBT CLUB

RUNNER UP: STANLEY STEEMER

RUNNER UP: WHITE MAGNOLIA

RUNNER UP: PARK PLACE

BEST ETHNIC GROCERIES

BEST WEDDING VENUE

BEST TINDER DATE SPOT

RUNNER UP: ROWE’S SUPERMARKET

RUNNER UP: TUCKER’S FARMHOUSE

RUNNER UP: BIRDIE’S

BEST FARMERS MARKET

BEST WEDDING CAKE

BEST CHEAP THRILL

RUNNER UP: JAX FARMERS MARKET

RUNNER UP: ALLEYCAKES BAKERY

RUNNER UP: CHILI’S GRILL AND BAR

BEST LOCAL FARM

BEST RECEPTION VENUE

BEST KARAOKE SPOT

RUNNER UP: TRADER’S HILL FARM

RUNNER UP: BRICK AND BEAM

RUNNER UP: AUSTIN KARAOKE

BEST LOCAL GROCERIES

BEST WEDDING FLORIST

BEST OPEN MIC

RUNNER UP: NATIVE SUN

RUNNER UP: KUHN FLOWERS

RUNNER UP: THE FLY’S TIE

BEST BUTCHER SHOP

BEST WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

BEST BED AND BREAKFAST

RUNNER UP: PINEGROVE MARKET AND DELI

RUNNER UP: WILL SHOOTS

RUNNER UP: N/A

1ST PLACE, HAIR PEACE

1ST PLACE, SARAH KEENE

1ST PLACE, KESSLER CREATIVE

1ST PLACE, THE TAILOR SHOP, INC.

1ST PLACE, GALAXY NAILS

1ST PLACE, MYLES DANTE

1ST PLACE, LEXUS OF ORANGE PARK

1ST PLACE, VYSTAR CREDIT UNION

1ST PLACE, PHILLIPS AND HUNT

1ST PLACE, OXI FRESH CLEANING

1ST PLACE, HALA’S MIDEAST

1ST PLACE, RIVERSIDE ARTS MARKET

1ST PLACE, CONGAREE AND PENN

1ST PLACE, GRASSROOTS

1ST PLACE, FRESH MARKET

@FOLIOWEEKLY

FOLIOWEEKLY.COM

1ST PLACE, GRASSROOTS

1ST PLACE, BREWHOUND

1ST PLACE, BARK ON PARK

1ST PLACE, BARK ON PARK

1ST PLACE, LUBA’S

1ST PLACE, PET PARADISE

1ST PLACE, FC NO MORE HOMELESS PETS

1ST PLACE, BARK ON PARK

1ST PLACE, CHRISTINE CUNNINGHAM

1ST PLACE, FRENCH NOVELTY

1ST PLACE, EPPING FOREST

1ST PLACE, CALLI MARIE WEBB

1ST PLACE, EPPING FOREST

1ST PLACE, SEAWALK CUSTOM FLORALS

1ST PLACE, SARAH HEDDEN

1ST PLACE, JACKSONVILLE ZOO

1ST PLACE, AMELIA ISLAND

1ST PLACE, ONE OCEAN RESORT AND SPA

1ST PLACE, ST. AUGUSTINE

1ST PLACE, ST. AUGUSTINE

1ST PLACE, FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH

1ST PLACE, RIVER & POST

1ST PLACE, COWFORD CHOPHOUSE

1ST PLACE, 1904 MUSIC HALL

1ST PLACE, HAMBURGER MARY’S

1ST PLACE, HOPTINGER

1ST PLACE, THE BEACH

1ST PLACE, RAIN DOGS

1ST PLACE, RAIN DOGS

1ST PLACE, RIVERDALE INN

17

I KNOW A SPOT

IT’S NOT ABOUT THE JOURNEY, IT’S ABOUT THE DESTINATION. BEST PARK

BEST PLACE TO SCHMOOZE

WORST FLOOD ZONE

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD

BEST HAUNTED HOUSE

BEST PLACE TO DANCE

BEST PLACE TO HUG A TREE

BEST BRIDGE

BEST PLACE TO FIND A FOLIO

BEST VIEWS

BEST LIBRARY BRANCH

BEST PLACE TO COUNT MULLETS

1ST PLACE, MEMORIAL PARK RUNNER UP: SPRING PARK

1ST PLACE, GRAPE AND GRAIN RUNNER UP: JUMBO SHRIMP GAME

1ST PLACE, RIVERSIDE RUNNER UP: SAN MARCO

1ST PLACE, DANIEL’S DUNGEON RUNNER UP: KING HOUSE, MAYPORT

1ST PLACE, TREATY OAK PARK RUNNER UP: ORTEGA

1ST PLACE, DAMES POINT RUNNER UP: MAIN STREET

1ST PLACE, RIVERWALK RUNNER UP: BEACHES

1ST PLACE, DOWNTOWN RUNNER UP: SAN MARCO

1ST PLACE, BLACK CREEK RUNNER UP: SAN MARCO

1ST PLACE, SANCTUARY SUNDAY (MYTH) RUNNER UP: BIRDIES 1ST PLACE, EUROPEAN STREET CAFE RUNNER UP: SOUTHERN GROUNDS

1ST PLACE, MONSTER TRUCK JAM RUNNER UP: RAMONA FLEA MARKET

LOVE WINS: THE YEAR OF THE MULLET

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2020 was a year of many trends: the Gucci tracksuit, OnlyFans, the quarantine album, the angled zoom camera and ring light combo, Oxford commas, and radicalizing your mother into a leftist. But even severe selfloathing during isolation was no competition for the mullet, which had its biggest year since Billy Ray Cyrus donned it unironically in the ‘80s.

For all of its country roots, the mullet has always been popular among fans of androgynous fashion. Take, for example, David Bowie, who pioneered the style in the 1970s, or Miley Cyrus, who’s following in her father’s footsteps as the mullet’s newest ambassador. In Jacksonville, we’ll boldly say the mullet has surpassed the mustache as the must-have, hairy fashion accessory, especially in Riverside. Its popularity is simple: It’s gender bending, needs little upkeep and can be shaggy or chic.

So if you’re ready for a change, head to the salon and do the damn thing. And assuming your stylist doesn’t kick you out of the chair, wear that Tennessee Tophat on the Jacksonville stage proudly like the rock star you are. If the business in the front, party in the back lifestyle doesn’t suit you, however, you can always bask in their bi-level glory at the Monster Truck Jam, which won Best Place to Count Mullets in our reader poll.

GAYLA COSTELLO STRUTS HER MULLET ON THE RIVERWALK JOHN ALOSZKA

18

VIEW THE FULL WINNERS LIST ONLINE. PRINT IS THE SPOT, BUT WE GET IT. CLICK ANYWHERE ON THIS PAGE TO VIEW THE BEST OF JAX RESULTS ONLINE.

19

FOOD AND DRINK

EAT UP, BUTTERCUP! BEST OUTDOOR DINING

BEST BREAKFAST

BEST THAI CUISINE

BEST LOCAL BAR

BEST BREWERY

BEST RAMEN

BEST AMERICAN CUISINE

BEST VEGAN CUISINE

BEST ROOFTOP

BEST PIZZA

BEST BURRITO

BEST CHEF

BEST BURGER

BEST TACOS

BEST CHICKEN WINGS

BEST BAGELS

BEST SEAFOOD

BEST DONUTS

1ST PLACE, SAFE HARBOR SEAFOOD RUNNER UP: THE BLUE CRAB CRABHOUSE

1ST PLACE, THE DONUT SHOPPE RUNNER UP: GOOD DOUGH

BEST BAKERY

BEST DIM SUM

BEST FISHCAMP

1ST PLACE, BLUE BAMBOO RUNNER UP: TIMWAH

1ST PLACE, WHITEY’S FISH CAMP RUNNER UP: JULINGTON CREEK FISH CAMP

BEST BBQ

BEST DIVE BAR

BEST HOT DOG

1 PLACE, PETE’S BAR RUNNER UP: SHERWOOD’S

1ST PLACE, THE GARAGE RUNNER UP: HOT DOG HUT

BEST BARISTA

BEST FARM TO TABLE

BEST WATERFRONT DINING

1 PLACE, CONGAREE AND PENN RUNNER UP: TOWN HALL

1ST PLACE, CAP’S ON THE WATER RUNNER UP: CHART HOUSE

BEST BARTENDER

BEST FINE DINING

BEST DINER

1ST PLACE, ORSAY RUNNER UP: MATTHEW’S

1ST PLACE, PENMAN DINER RUNNER UP: METRO DINER

BEST COFFEE HOUSE

BEST FOOD TRUCK

BEST WAITER

1 PLACE, HAPPY GRILLED CHEESE RUNNER UP: MR. TACO

1ST PLACE, SHANE LANTZ STOUT SNUG RUNNER UP: MICHAEL WILLIS BLUE CRAB CRABHOUSE

BEST BEER SELECTION

BEST CATERING

BEST CUBAN RESTAURANT

1 PLACE, KICKBACKS GASTROPUB RUNNER UP: HOPTINGER

1ST PLACE, BREAD & BOARD RUNNER UP: COPELAND’S OF NEW ORLEANS

1ST PLACE, HAVANA JAX RUNNER UP: MAMBOS CUBAN CAFE

BEST FRIES

BEST CHINESE CUISINE

BEST DELI

1 PLACE, CRUISERS GRILL RUNNER UP: TOWN HALL

1ST PLACE, HAWKERS ASIAN STREET FOOD RUNNER UP: BLUE BAMBOO

BEST BISTRO

BEST BRUNCH

1ST PLACE, BISTRO AIX RUNNER UP: SOUL FOOD BISTRO

1ST PLACE, PENMAN DINER RUNNER UP: COPELAND’S OF NEW ORLEANS

1ST PLACE, BISCOTTIS RUNNER UP: EUROPEAN STREET

BEST STEAKHOUSE

BEST INDIAN CUISINE

BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT

1ST PLACE, RIVER & POST RUNNER UP: COOP 303

1ST PLACE, SIDECAR RUNNER UP: THE VOLSTEAD 1ST PLACE, TOWN HALL RUNNER UP: COOP 303

1ST PLACE, V PIZZA RUNNER UP: BIGGIES PIZZA 1ST PLACE, POE’S TAVERN RUNNER UP: THE LOOP 1ST PLACE, BAGELS-R-US RUNNER UP: BAGEL LOVE 1ST PLACE, THE FRENCH PANTRY RUNNER UP: CINOTTI’S 1 PLACE, THE BEARDED PIG RUNNER UP: MOJO KITCHEN ST

1 PLACE, TRACY FROUT SOUTHERN ROOTS RUNNER UP: CHASE PERNA VAGABOND COFFEE ST

1ST PLACE, JOEY KAMINSKI STOUT SNUG RUNNER UP: JESSE NELSON BLUE CRAB CRABHOUSE 1 PLACE, BOLD BEAN COFFEE ROASTERS RUNNER UP: SOUTHERN GROUNDS ST

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1ST PLACE, COWFORD CHOPHOUSE RUNNER UP: III FORKS STEAKHOUSE

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1ST PLACE, PENMAN DINER RUNNER UP: METRO DINER 1ST PLACE, BOLD CITY BREWERY RUNNER UP: WICKED BARLEY 1ST PLACE, SOUTHERN ROOTS RUNNER UP: SUN-RAY CINEMA 1ST PLACE, BURRITO GALLERY RUNNER UP: CANTINA LOUIE 1ST PLACE, TACOLU RUNNER UP: FLYING IGUANA

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1ST PLACE, 5TH ELEMENT RUNNER UP: MASALA INDIAN CUISINE

1ST PLACE, INDOCHINE DOWNTOWN RUNNER UP: PATTAYA THAI GRILLE 1ST PLACE, CRANE RAMEN RUNNER UP: DOMU 1ST PLACE, RIVER & POST RUNNER UP: BLACK SHEEP 1ST PLACE, TOM GRAY RUNNER UP: SAM EFRON 1ST PLACE, PERFECT RACK BILLIARDS RUNNER UP: V PIZZA

1ST PLACE, PINEGROVE MARKET RUNNER UP: SUN DELI

BEST DESSERTS

1ST PLACE, THE FLYING IGUANA RUNNER UP: TWO SAINTS RESTAURANT

BEST FRENCH CUISINE

BEST KOREAN CUISINE

BEST SOUL FOOD RESTAURANT

BEST FRIED CHICKEN

BEST LATE NIGHT MENU

1 PLACE, COOP 303 RUNNER UP: BEACH ROAD FISH HOUSE

1ST PLACE, SPLIFF’S GASTROPUB RUNNER UP: CULHANE’S IRISH PUB

BEST SPORTS BAR

BEST GLUTEN-FREE MENU

BEST MARGARITA

1ST PLACE, FLYING IGUANA RUNNER UP: LOLA’S BURRITO & BURGER JOINT

BEST SANDWICH

1ST PLACE, SWEET THEORY RUNNER UP: SOUTHERN ROOTS

BEST GREEK CUISINE

BEST MEAL UNDER $10

1ST PLACE, THE HAPPY GRILLED CHEESE RUNNER UP: THE GARAGE

BEST TAKE OUT

1ST PLACE, OLIVE TREE MED. GRILLE RUNNER UP: NOURA CAFE

BEST HAPPY HOUR

BEST MEXICAN CUISINE

1ST PLACE, BLUE FISH RESTAURANT RUNNER UP: COOP 303

1ST PLACE, LA NOPALERA RUNNER UP: EL JEFE TEX MEX

1ST PLACE, RIVER & POST RUNNER UP: COWFORD CHOPHOUSE

BEST ICE CREAM

BEST MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE

BEST WINE BAR

1 PLACE, DREAMETTE RUNNER UP: WHIT’S FROZEN CUSTARD

1ST PLACE, CASBAH CAFE RUNNER UP: OLIVE TREE MED. GRILLE

BEST HOOKAH LOUNGE

BEST NEW BAR

1ST PLACE, WILDCRAFTERS RUNNER UP: BIRDIES

BEST WINE LIST

1ST PLACE, CASBAH CAFE RUNNER UP: SAHARA CAFE & BAR

BEST SMOOTHIE

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

1ST PLACE, HUEY’S NASHVILLE HOT CHICKEN RUNNER UP: PRATI ITALIA

BEST GERMAN CUISINE

1ST PLACE, TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFE RUNNER UP: GRASSROOTS NATURAL MARKET

BEST BARFOOD

BEST OYSTERS

1ST PLACE, PERFECT RACK BILLIARDS RUNNER UP: THE GARAGE

1ST PLACE, BLUE FISH RESTAURANT RUNNER UP: ORSAY

BEST ITALIAN CUISINE

BEST PHO RESTAURANT

1 PLACE, ENZA’S RUNNER UP: PRATI ITALIA

1ST PLACE, BOWL OF PHO RUNNER UP: PHO 99 VIETNAMESE GRILL

BEST JAPANESE CUISINE

BEST QUICK LUNCH

1ST PLACE, ORSAY RUNNER UP: BISTRO AIX

1ST PLACE, KIM’S KOREAN BBQ RUNNER UP: GANGNAM KOREAN

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1ST PLACE, SAKURA JAPANESE RUNNER UP: OKINAWA JAPANESE

1ST PLACE, SOUL FOOD BISTRO RUNNER UP: POTTER’S HOUSE SOUL FOOD 1ST PLACE, MELLOW MUSHROOM RUNNER UP: MILLER’S ALE HOUSE 1ST PLACE, EUROPEAN STREET CAFE RUNNER UP: FIREHOUSE SUBS 1ST PLACE, HUEY’S NASHVILLE HOT CHICKEN RUNNER UP: JAZZY’S RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE

BEST UPSCALE BAR

1ST PLACE, TOWN HALL RUNNER UP: BARRIQUE KITCHEN 1ST PLACE, TAVERNA RUNNER UP: ORSAY 1ST PLACE, EUROPEAN STREET CAFE RUNNER UP: GERMAN SCHNITZEL HAUS

BEST PLACE TO WATCH A JAGS GAME

1ST PLACE, THE STOUT SNUG RUNNER UP: MELLOW MUSHROOM

1ST PLACE, THE FRENCH PANTRY RUNNER UP: ANGIE’S SUBS

THE STOUT SNUG’S SUPERIOR SERVICE

@THESTOUTSNUG

Long day and looking for a drink around the corner? How about some tasty Irish inspired fare? Sure, there’s a handful of spots you can snag some, but how often do you get impeccable service and friendly hospitality? This year, Folio readers took a good look at their menus and nominated Joey Kaminski for best bartender and Shane Lantz for best waiter, both hailing from Murray Hill’s own Stout Snug. For quite some time, Kaminski and Lantz have been the talk of the service industry up the west side. Kaminski has lengthy and notable experience in bartending.

Feeling something light? He’s got something for that. Really trying to go all out with something a bit wild or even a little obscure to chase after barhopping down the street? Yep, he’s got something for that, too. He primarily operates behind the counter of Snug’s creamery, the pub’s newest addition, serving up signature boozy shakes with ease, such as the Rumple Mint Chip and carefully crafted Guinness floats.

Locals who frequent Murray Hill’s Edgewood recall Kaminski’s uncanny ability to consistently serve up tasty libations with effortless cool and class. Towards the dining end, Lentz is known for offering prompt and warm service for his guests.

One of the best-known front of house faces of Snug, Lentz knows the menu front and backwhich can still be a daunting feat for even some of the most seasoned servers- and can tailor something yummy to your drinks with a variety of suggestions. Perhaps Jax’s favorite waiter offers a special type of service than what he’s credited for: on a hazy weekend, Lentz is the guy who can save you with some traditional Bangers and Mash or Soft Pretzels with beer cheese. We’ve all been there, but only a few of us have been fortunate enough to have a quality, eyeful waiter. It’s a treat to have Kaminski and Lentz serve you on the same shift at Stout Snug- by all means, in 2021, take a moment on a free night to grab some grub from Murray Hill’s service dream team, all in one place.

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THE

BEST OF JAX MAP This map was derived from the 1974 Atlas of Duval County. The gold Duval County, which was on the cover of the atlas, was scanned by the Jacksonville Library Archival team and then designed over by John Aloszka.

The scan shows not only the Duval County boundary but also the St. Johns River and the major roadways in 1974.

HAPPY GRILLED CH BEST MEAL UNDER BEST FOOD TRUCK

CONGAREE AND PENN: BEST LOCAL FARM BEST FARM TO TABLE

STOUT SNUG: BEST BARTENDER BEST WAITER BEST PLACE TO WATCH A JAGS GAME

HUEY’S NASHVILLE HOT CHICKEN: BEST TAKEOUT BEST NEW RESTAURANT

PERFECT RACK BILLIARDS: BEST BAR FOOD BEST POOL HALL BEST CHICKEN WINGS

RAIN DOGS: BEST OPEN MIC BEST KARAOKE

ORSAY: BEST FRENCH CUISINE BEST FINE DINING SOUTHERN ROOTS: BEST VEGAN CUISINE BEST BARISTA

EUROPEAN STREET CAFE: BEST PLACE TO FIND YOUR FOLIO BEST SANDWICH BEST GERMAN CUISINE

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RIVER AND POST: BEST OUTDOOR D BEST ROOFTOP BEST UPSCALE BA BEST ROMANTIC N

PHILLIPS AND HUNT: BEST LAWYER/FIRM

THE COWFORD CHOPHOUSE: BEST STEAKHOUSE BEST MEAL WHEN YOU’RE NOT PAYING

RILLED CHEESE: AL UNDER $10 OD TRUCK

JACKSONVILLE ZOO: BEST LOCAL ATTRACTION

AMELIA ISLAND: BEST BEACH

SAFE HARBOR SEAFOOD: BEST SEAFOOD

FLYING IGUANA: BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT BEST MARGARITA

V PIZZA: BEST PIZZA PENMAN DINER: BEST BREAKFAST BEST DINER BEST BRUNCH HOPTINGER: BEST TINDER DATE SPOT

BEST ETHNIC GROCER: HALA’S MIDDLE EAST BOWL OF PHO: BEST PHO MELLOW MUSHROOM: BEST SPORTS BAR

BOLD BEAN: BEST COFFEE HOUSE

TOWN HALL: BEST AMERICAN CUISINE BEST WINE BAR

AND POST: OUTDOOR DINING ROOFTOP UPSCALE BAR ROMANTIC NIGHT OUT

BLUEFISH RESTAURANT AND OYSTER BAR: BEST HAPPY HOUR BEST OYSTERS

THE FRENCH PANTRY: BEST BAKERY BEST QUICK LUNCH

23

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

BREAK A LEG, LOCALLY. BEST ACTOR

BEST LOCAL MUSICIAN

BEST MUSEUM

BEST ACTRESS

BEST LOCAL MOVIE THEATER

1ST PLACE, YOANNA HOUSE RUNNER UP: KATE MCMANUS

1ST PLACE, SUN-RAY CINEMA RUNNER UP: SAN MARCO THEATRE

BEST ART GALLERY

BEST MUSIC VENUE

BEST COMMUNITY THEATER

BEST FILM FESTIVAL

1 PLACE, THE AMP RUNNER UP: 1904 MUSIC HALL

1 PLACE, PLAYERS BY THE SEA RUNNER UP: THEATRE JACKSONVILLE

1ST PLACE, LOL JAX RUNNER UP: JACKSONVILLE FILM FESTIVAL

BEST LOCAL BAND

BEST COMEDIAN

1ST PLACE, JOSH BLIMBAUM RUNNER UP: LENNY CURRY (YIKES!)

BEST JAZZ BAND

1ST PLACE, BLISTUR RUNNER UP: JULIA GULIA

BEST VISUAL ARTIST

BEST COMEDY CLUB

BEST MUSIC FESTIVAL

1 PLACE, JERROD BROWN RUNNER UP: CHIP SOUTHWORTH

1ST PLACE, COMEDY ZONE RUNNER UP: LAUGH LOUNGE

BEST LOCAL MUSIC STUDIO

BEST CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHER

BEST PUBLIC ARTWORK

1ST PLACE, JAS ABRAMOWITZ RUNNER UP: JAYBIER NINO

ST

ST

1ST PLACE, HIT THE LIGHTS PRODUCTIONS RUNNER UP: STAY TUNED STUDIOS

24

1ST PLACE, CHRIS KELLAM RUNNER UP: BRIAN LITTLE

ST

1ST PLACE, WILL SHOOTS RUNNER UP: AGNES LOPEZ

1ST PLACE, MOSH RUNNER UP: THE CUMMER 1ST PLACE, STELLERS GALLERY RUNNER UP: FLORIDA MINING

1ST PLACE, THE BAND BE EASY RUNNER UP: THE CHRIS THOMAS BAND 1ST PLACE, PORCHFEST RUNNER UP: JACKSONVILLE JAZZ FESTIVAL 1ST PLACE, BILL MURRAY MURAL RUNNER UP: UNF SCULPTURE PARK

HEALTH, SPORTS AND RECREATION

WHAT’S UP, DOC? BEST ATHLETE

BEST 5K

BEST DENTIST

BEST BICYCLE SHOP

BEST MARATHON

BEST DERMATOLOGIST

BEST FISHING SPOT

BEST SPA/MASSAGE STUDIO

BEST DOCTOR

BEST GOLF COURSE

BEST SKATEBOARDER

BEST HOSPITAL

BEST GYM

BEST SURF SHOP

BEST MEDICAL MARIJUANA CLINIC

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

BEST SKATE SPOT

BEST DISPENSARY

BEST YOGA INSTRUCTOR

BEST ACUPUNCTURE

BEST PEDIATRICIAN

BEST YOGA STUDIO

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

1ST PLACE, TIM TEBOW RUNNER UP: BRIAN WADE 1ST PLACE, ZENCOG BICYCLE CO. RUNNER UP: OPEN ROAD BICYCLES 1ST PLACE, MAYPORT JETTIES RUNNER UP: JAX BEACH PIER 1ST PLACE, BLUE SKY GOLF CLUB RUNNER UP: JAX GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB 1ST PLACE, JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE RUNNER UP: WORKOUT ANYTIME 1ST PLACE, EIFFEL GILYANA RUNNER UP: BRIAN WADE

1ST PLACE, GISELA REIS RUNNER UP: DORI THOMSEN

1ST PLACE, SOLUNA YOGA & SPA RUNNER UP: CASITA YOGA STUDIO

1ST PLACE, RIVER RUN RUNNER UP: BLACK LIVES MATTER 5K 1ST PLACE, DONNA MARATHON RUNNER UP: N/A 1ST PLACE, DR. CLAYMAN’S MEDICAL SPA RUNNER UP: SOLUNA YOGA & SPA 1ST PLACE, CLYDE SINGLETON RUNNER UP: HUNTER MCCLAIN 1ST PLACE, AQUA EAST SURF SHOP RUNNER UP: SUNRISE SURF SHOP 1ST PLACE, KONA SKATEPARK RUNNER UP: PONTE VEDRA COURT 1ST PLACE, DR. GORDANA SMITH RUNNER UP: BOW ACUPUNCTURE

1ST PLACE, DR. LARRY BURNSIDE RUNNER UP: ORTEGA DENTAL 1ST PLACE, DR. KRISTEN STEWART RUNNER UP: DR. MICHAEL BERNHARDT 1ST PLACE, DR. LOREN CLAYMAN RUNNER UP: DR. SCOTT SCHIMPFF 1ST PLACE, MAYO CLINIC RUNNER UP: BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER 1ST PLACE, DR. GREEN RELIEF RX RUNNER UP: MMTC OF FLORIDA

1ST PLACE, ONE PLANT JAX BEACH RUNNER UP: TRULIEVE 1ST PLACE, ISLAND PEDIATRICS RUNNER UP: CARITHERS PEDIATRIC GROUP

1ST PLACE, WAYNE GORDON RUNNER UP: JOHN PAUL FRITZ

KONA SKATEPARK

All those who Hail Skatan know Kona Skatepark is sacred ground. Devotees have taken pilgrimages to this international mecca for decades, and during one of the most uncertain years in recent memory, Kona remained a rock for the Jacksonville skate community.

The park made major changes to visitor flow throughout the pandemic. Gone are the days of spending sunrise to sunset sequestered in the compound, but I was lucky to sneak an

PHOTO BY JUSTIN BRIGHT, 2020

extended session in this night.

Upon opening the clubhouse door, world-renowned vert skaters Chris Gregson, Tom Schaar and Trey Wood greeted me by seshing the 6-foot-tall tombstone like it was a concrete curb. The tombstone is a vertical wall extension added to one of the oldest and largest concrete ramps in the park: the Kona bowl.

This group of young professionals showing prowess on the same terrain as icons like Tony Alva and Mitch Kauffman cut their teeth on certifies the park is still a proving ground for the most progressive on four wheels.

Kona concrete is built with blood, sweat and resilience. Even though the park is the longest standing skate world megalith, Kona would be nothing without communal embrace.

Jacksonville has a duty to preserve this space.

Kona winning Best Skatepark in Jacksonville is a nod toward the fortitude of the Ramos family and the aura that fills everyone’s hearts when we step inside of the fences.

25

END OF THE DECADE

WHAT A DECADE... I NEED A DRINK. THING YOU MISS MOST DURING COVID

BEST LOCAL TREND

BEST THING TO HAPPEN TO JAX IN THE LAST DECADE

BEST DEVELOPMENT PROJECT

WORST THING TO HAPPEN TO JAX IN THE LAST DECADE

WORST DEVELOPMENT PROJECT

BIGGEST DECADE FLOP

BEST CATEGORY WE DIDNT THINK OF

1ST PLACE, HANGING OUT WITH FRIENDS RUNNER UP: LIVE MUSIC 1ST PLACE, RIVERSIDE ARTS MARKET RUNNER UP: MEDICAL MARIJUANA 1ST PLACE, COVID-19 RUNNER UP: LENNY CURRY 1ST PLACE, THE LANDING RUNNER UP: LENNY CURRY

1ST PLACE, BLACK LIVES MATTER (MORE THAN A TREND!) RUNNER UP: WEARING MASKS 1ST PLACE, DAILY’S PLACE RUNNER UP: RIVERFRONT PARKS PROJECT 1ST PLACE, THE LANDING RUNNER UP: LOT J

1ST PLACE, BEST TEACHER RUNNER UP: BEST GATHERING PLACE FOR GEEKS

BIGGES DECADE SUCCESS

1ST PLACE, VOTING OUT TRUMP RUNNER UP: BIDEN ELECTED PRESIDENT

FEBRUARY 20 • 8:00PM TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

A SOCIALLY DISTANCED EVENT WITH SAFETY PROTOCOLS IN PLACE

904-355-ARTS (2787) floridatheatre.com Florida Theatre Ticket| Office

or 355.ARTS (2787) | floridatheatre.com 128 East Forsyth Street, Downtown Jacksonville 128 Forsyth Street | Downtown Jacksonville

26

Follow us for the latest event news Folio Quarter-Template.indd 1

1/5/21 11:26 PM

P

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NEED A NEW MYSTERY TO START WATCHING NOW?

SAT UR DAY NI GHT Mysteries 9PM | Death In Paradise

IMAGINATION

8PM | Midsomer Murders

7PM | Father Brown

10PM | Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries

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PIERCING - ART - LITERATURE

WJCT-TV has murder and mayhem all queued up.

SATURDAY NIGHTS STARTING AT 7PM

(904) 853-6291 pureimaginationarts.com

on WJCT-TV (Comcast 8 & 440)

469-11 Atlantic Beach, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

27

NEW MUSIC RADAR

ALT

INDIE DIMARTINO

ERASER

“I’m not cool/but I’m no freak/And this time I’m on an honest streak” croons DiMartino as he laments the ways he internalizes the outside world’s perception of his life. His voice shakes, but doesn’t crack--he’s gasping for air.

Dimartino seems content to let his heart drain without seeming angry; even when the backing vocals shout, it’s not at you, or anyone, but himself,

PICKS BY @JOHNALOSZKA

For fans of Peter Gabriel, Arcade Fire, and El Vy. HOTTE IN TOWST N K ROC

LEAVING TIME

STAY

Don’t let the track’s first 20 seconds fool you, “Stay” is more reminiscent of the early garage rock your parents grew up with than the shoegaze that you’ll hear in a Riverside coffee shop - and that’s a good thing. Unruly and unpredictable, Leaving Time manages to force the essence of a live show into your speakers, and in a time where venues aren’t packed to the brim, it’s very much welcome.

For fans of Ty Segal, The White Stripes, and My Bloody Valentine.

R&B

POSSE PROGRAM VOLUME ZERO

For fans of Frank Ocean, Marc Rebillet, and Blood Orange.

The HOTTEST IN TOWN designation is given to releases that push local music in a new direction. All these releases are hot, don’t worry.

28

LONELY WOLF

Niki Dawson once again proves she’s one of the best vocalists in Jacksonville on “Lonely Wolf,” alternating between shrill runs and neo-soul flows. Lesser vocalists or writers would veer into cliches by incorporating howls (like the title would suggest) into the song, but Dawson utilizes her melodies to do so, ultimately elevating the song instead of hindering it.

DJTESCOBBY

Through playlisting, streaming has created, in effect, genreless music. Younger artists and listeners are more likely to gravitate toward similar sonics than genre confined listening. Artists like Frank Ocean, Lana Del Rey and Billie Eillish have tapped into this phenomenon, producing records that are cohesive in feeling yet span genres from track to track; Here, DJTESCOBBY does the same.

A 36-minute mixtape that blends house, rap and R&B, “Posse Program Volume Zero” builds upon the trend of listener-intensive music from rappers and R&B artists (and even some indie kids) creating sketches and interludes that build into a cohesive project. It’s a sometimes jarring effect for those not used to the notion, but if you devote your attention, you’ll be rewarded greatly.

NIKI DAWSON

For fans of Solange, WILLOW, and Sza.

ALT

SHANE MALONE

RIGHT TIME

There’s a time in everyone’s youth where they’re unintentionally the bad person in a relationship. It’s part of growing into yourself. For many young people, this time of discovery has been put on hold by the pandemic. But as Malone sings on “Right Time,” there’ll be a time when we’ll all be together again, and then hopefully we’ll have all our vices and virtues figured out.

For fans of Mac Demarco, STRFKR, and Hippo Campus.

HOROSCOPES JAN-FEB 2021

AQUARIUS Life is light because it’s beautiful, heavy because the pressure is on. You’ll stumble over words when you talk about yourself.

Romance will free itself of mystery and frivolity. Your new identity—your truest self—might feel at odds with what you thought you’d be when you were young, but rebelling against anything but the newest and best is your divine strength.

LEO A droning discomfort with your career will continue as a wave of inaction washes over you. You’re wholly focused on building a relationship at the moment, and you’ll have to create a compromise between these two areas of your life. Make your sacrifices wisely—the enchantment of love feeds the ego. Don’t let your soul’s purpose go hungry.

PISCES Dreamy and sleepy as you always are, settle into the year at

Walk the line of service between what’s helpful to others and what’s good for your mind. If you focus on your health, you could reach a breakthrough in a mental block that’s taken forever to get through. Cultivate the weird, gather the wisdom, hold your beliefs close to your heart.

peace in your place. Take some space to contemplate, use your time to create, every action should be gentle and intentional. Emotional indulgence won’t sit right with anyone just yet. You’ll be better off just using your brain.

ARIES A long, deep transformation is underway for your reputation.

You’re an individual through and through, expand this gift by taking part in groups. As your social circle expands, remember that clout doesn’t come from wasting money and real friends can’t be bought. Your insistence on staying in place might rub people the wrong way.

TAURUS Jupiter, Saturn and Mars come bearing gifts of executive functioning wrapped in clear sticky paper. You’re making your daddy proud. In an existential defiance, you might find yourself in a bind with authority figures that seem to be a step behind. Take responsibility and open up to your talents—six sticks are lined up for you.

GEMINI The shallow waters you like to lurk in will deepen as you seek meaning and truth. Going far away from home will teach you what you need to know. A newfound commitment to your studies won’t materialize until you break out of a psychic rut—if there’s a time to do it, it’s now.

Healing comes from sincerity, from looking outwards and feeling inwards.

CANCER

Get ready for conversations that you’re not ready for.

Emotional intimacy will intensify, relationships will take up a sobering seriousness. Consider the concept of trust and fall into it knowing that you’re safe. Your weird friends come through with unique perspectives.

Listen closely and bring them along into the new age.

LISTEN LOCALLY ON THE FOLIO LOCAL PLAYLIST. SCAN TO LISTEN

VIRGO You’ll find yourself in a position of usefulness that feels like home.

LIBRA You’re getting serious about what you want to put into the world.

This newfound commitment might be at odds with an unwillingness to release your resources. Feeling too grown, you will hold your money close and cut ties with friends that can’t catch up. Creative bounty could come out of a visionary collaboration with someone sincere.

SCORPIO You’ll drift into a secret dwelling and stay there, in everything you touch you’ll feel a mother’s love. Build something grand and eternal there, a fickle lover’s got no place in your space. A reflection of your stubbornness will come in the form of a person with questionable intentions— they will stay where they are and you will leave them there.

SAGITTARIUS It’s a busy time for your ears, eyes and mind. A chapter has closed and you’re anxious to preach what you’ve learned. You’re fixed on mercurial matters, but you won’t come across clearly if you’re overwhelmed—take your quick steps deliberately. A neighbor or friend will bring a blessing only if you accept them as they are.

CAPRICORN You do the most—enjoy the fruits of your labor. Take this time to seek profundity in everything you have. Remember, though, these things of the third dimension are the means to the end of pleasure; they are only worth what you make of them. Materialism will only stifle the creative force within you.

- ISA BARRIENTOS

YOU’RE ALREADY HERE. POTENTIAL CUSTOMERS ARE, TOO. With a reach of over 200,000 people each issue, Folio puts your business all over town.

TERESA@FOLIOWEEKLY.COM 29

T:9.35”

Important Facts About DOVATO This is only a brief summary of important information about DOVATO and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and treatment.

What is the most important information I should know about DOVATO? If you have both human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, DOVATO can cause serious side effects, including: • Resistant HBV infection. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV infection before you start treatment with DOVATO. If you have HIV-1 and hepatitis B, the hepatitis B virus can change (mutate) during your treatment with DOVATO and become harder to treat (resistant). It is not known if DOVATO is safe and effective in people who have HIV-1 and HBV infection.

• Worsening of HBV infection. If you have HIV-1 and HBV infection, your HBV may get worse (flare-up) if you stop taking DOVATO. A “flare-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns in a worse way than before. Worsening liver disease can be serious and may lead to death. ° Do not run out of DOVATO. Refill your prescription or talk to your healthcare provider before your DOVATO is all gone. ° Do not stop DOVATO without first talking to your healthcare provider. If you stop taking DOVATO, your healthcare provider will need to check your health often and do blood tests regularly for several months to check your liver.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Some medicines interact with DOVATO. Keep a list of your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

• You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a list of medicines that interact with DOVATO. • Do not start taking a new medicine without telling your healthcare provider.

Your healthcare provider can tell you if it is safe to take DOVATO with other medicines.

What are possible side effects of DOVATO? DOVATO can cause serious side effects, including: • Those in the “What is the most important information I should know about DOVATO?” section.

• Allergic reactions. Call your healthcare provider right away if you develop a rash with DOVATO. Stop taking DOVATO and get medical help right away if you develop a rash with any of the following signs or symptoms: fever; generally ill feeling; tiredness; muscle or joint aches; blisters or sores in mouth; blisters or peeling of the skin; redness or swelling of the eyes; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; problems breathing.

• Liver problems. People with a history of hepatitis B or C virus may have an increased risk of developing new or worsening changes in certain liver tests during treatment with DOVATO. Liver problems, including liver failure, have also happened in people without a history of liver disease or other risk factors. Your healthcare What is DOVATO? provider may do blood tests to check your liver.

DOVATO is a prescription medicine that is used without other HIV-1 medicines to treat Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection in adults: who have not received signs or symptoms of liver problems: your skin or the white part of your eyes HIV-1 medicines in the past, or to replace their current HIV-1 medicines when their turns yellow (jaundice); dark or “tea-colored” urine; light-colored stools (bowel healthcare provider determines that they meet certain requirements. HIV-1 is the virus movements); nausea or vomiting; loss of appetite; and/or pain, aching, or tenderness that causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). It is not known if DOVATO is on the right side of your stomach area. safe and effective in children.

• Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis). Lactic acidosis is a Who should not take DOVATO? serious medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms that could be signs of Do not take DOVATO if you: • have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine that contains dolutegravir lactic acidosis: feel very weak or tired; unusual (not normal) muscle pain; trouble breathing; stomach pain with nausea and vomiting; feel cold, especially in your arms or lamivudine.

• take dofetilide. and legs; feel dizzy or lightheaded; and/or a fast or irregular heartbeat.

• Lactic acidosis can also lead to severe liver problems, which can lead to What should I tell my healthcare provider before using DOVATO? death. Your liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and you may develop fat in your Tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including liver (steatosis). Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the if you: signs or symptoms of liver problems which are listed above under “Liver • have or have had liver problems, including hepatitis B or C infection. problems.” You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver • have kidney problems. problems if you are female or very overweight (obese).

• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. One of the medicines in DOVATO • Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can (dolutegravir) may harm your unborn baby. happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines. Your immune system may get ° Your healthcare provider may prescribe a different medicine than DOVATO if you stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long are planning to become pregnant or if pregnancy is confirmed during the first time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you start having new symptoms after 12 weeks of pregnancy. you start taking DOVATO. ° If you can become pregnant, your healthcare provider will perform a pregnancy test • The most common side effects of DOVATO include: headache; nausea; before you start treatment with DOVATO. diarrhea; trouble sleeping; tiredness; and anxiety. ° If you can become pregnant, you should consistently use effective birth control These are not all the possible side effects of DOVATO. Call your doctor for medical (contraception) during treatment with DOVATO. advice about side effects. ° Tell your healthcare provider right away if you are planning to become pregnant, you become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant during treatment with DOVATO. • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you take DOVATO. ° You should not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby. ° One of the medicines in DOVATO (lamivudine) passes into your breastmilk. ° Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby.

©2020 ViiV Healthcare or licensor.

DLLADVT200006 August 2020 Produced in USA.

30

SO MUCH GOES INTO WHO I AM HIV MEDICINE IS ONE PART OF IT. Why could DOVATO be right for you? DOVATO is proven to help control HIV with just 2 medicines in 1 pill. That means fewer medicines* in your body while taking DOVATO. It’s proven as effective as an HIV treatment with 3 or 4 medicines.

Learn more about fewer medicines at DOVATO.com DOVATO is a complete prescription regimen to treat HIV-1 in adults who have not received HIV-1 medicines in the past or to replace their current HIV-1 medicines when their doctor determines they meet certain requirements.

Results may vary. *As compared with 3- or 4-drug regimens.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where can I find more information?

• Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

• Go to DOVATO.com or call 1-877-844-8872, where you can also get FDA-approved labeling.

August 2020 DVT:4PIL Trademark is owned by or licensed to the ViiV Healthcare group of companies.

New to treatment? Considering a switch?

Ask your doctor about DOVATO. 31

THE MUSIC THAT MADE ME: WILLIAM HUNG

DEAR RIVERSIDE RAT:

I SLEPT WITH THE BARTENDER.

Recently, I slept with a bartender from my favorite bar. Before we went home together, we had a romantic time walking around Memorial Park, he took some pictures of me, and we got breakfast the next morning. But he’s hardly talked to me since, hasn’t developed the pictures, and now whenever I try to visit him at work, he’s talking to another girl and acts too cool for me. Is it “last call” for this guy?

William Hung didn’t make it past the audition round on season 3 of American Idol, but he still found fame (or infamy, depending on who you ask) as a recording artist, author, actor and professional poker player. These days, Hung, who recently relocated from L.A. to Jacksonville, earns his keep as a motivational speaker, business coach and Cameo legend.

SHE BANGS Ricky Martin POKEMON THEME SONG Jason Paige EVERYONE IS NO. 1 Andy Lau CAN YOU FEEL THE LOVE TONIGHT Elton John DECK THE HALLS Standard RUDOLPH THE RED NOSED REINDEER Johnny Marks BEST DAY OF MY LIFE American Authors THE GAMBLER Kenny Rogers POWER OF ONE Donna Summer

The Music that Made Me: is a recurring column in Folio Weekly featuring prominent locals and the music that has shaped their lives.

Listen to the playlist by scanning the adjacent QR code.

32

- Flaky in Five Points

Dear Flaky in Five Points: Sounds like you’ve fallen for a standard move in the playbook of Riverside service industry fu*kboys: he fills your glass, gets some ass, then pours over for the next girl he sees at the end of the bar. I’m sure you’re a cool gal with sensible tastes, but for as much as those boys have to drink, they’ll always be thirsty as hell.

Even worse, despite all you have to offer, they’re not particularly selective.

It also appears you’re searching for a motive: Did he flirt too hard for tips and end up just giving you his? Maybe he didn’t like the way you jokingly said his bar plays the same damn Tame Impala song too much? Or he noticed you subtly rolling your eyes when he said Asics weren’t, in fact, just overpriced-dad shoes? He has no motive, Flaky; they never do.

To him, getting you “behind the stick” so he can 86 you the next day is just a part of his side hustle. But if he’s going to use his photography as a ploy to hookup with you, he at least should offer you some clarity rather than leaving you in the dark room.

Since he won’t, let me shed some light on the situation. A guy who acts all “I’m Sensitive Photography Guy” and takes you home, then ignores you the next time he sees doesn’t deserve a last call: He needs to be cut off.

My other advice is go out with your girlfriends and have some fun, but if that happy hour Sangria starts to make the barback with the patchy goatee look kinda cute, make sure they escort you out.

A word to the wise: he can make you cocktails, but he can’t make you happy.

- RIVERSIDE RAT Riverside Rat is a monthly advice column by Casey Craig dealing with the unique struggles of the Riverside social scene. Questions can be submitted to riversiderat@folioweekly.com.

SOCIETY PAIGE GARCIA

I’M FLIRTING WITH MY SOBRIETY IN A CULTURE THAT FLIRTS WITH GETTING F*CKED UP. AT WHAT POINT DO OUR COLLEGE TENDENCIES END? AND WHEN DID WE DECIDE THAT THOSE TENDENCIES WERE EVER NORMAL?

Recently, I saved a TikTok called “Easiest drinks to drink when you don’t feel like drinking.” And now, I’m rethinking my relationship with alcohol.

I’ve actually been thinking about my substance usage for years, but now I am acting on it. Participating in “Dry January” is not something I’m alone in. Many people are taking off their party hats and putting on their gym clothes, practicing meditation and swigging kombucha just in time for the new calendar year. But what does this mean for the future of my drinking and substance intake? What if I, an infamous party girl, choose the path of sobriety while remaining intricately woven into a culture that promotes getting fucked up?

I have teetered on the line of alcoholism since I started college.

Parties were risky, inexpensive and unpredictable. I thrived on the routine of the pregame, party and drunken nightcap. I shotgunned beers in seconds flat, drank my whiskey straight, and one time, I took down an entire fraternity in a flip cup tournament.

“Everyone does that in college: it’s fine,” I’d tell myself.

But it wasn’t fine. I was messy, and most nights didn’t end in victory. Instead, they ended in embarrassing conversations, anxiety riddled hangovers and even broken bones. I was often burdensome to those around me which left me feeling small and remorseful.

It wasn’t until the problems began to fully outweigh the fun memories (especially watching the mental and physical health of myself and those I loved begin to deteriorate) that I was able to take a step back and re-evaluate my life without alcohol. So here I am, flirting with my sobriety, taking it with me the way I used to carry my

liquor, and realizing, like those college parties, sobriety is also risky, inexpensive and unpredictable.

It has taken me almost three years of awareness of my binge drinking to come to these conclusions. Three years that I sometimes punish myself for. “Why didn’t I do this sooner?” “Why is this so scary and so hard?” I would ask myself over and over as I picked up a case of beer on the way home. Thoughts of sobriety sent me spiraling deep into all of the unresolved pain I would have to finally heal from.

How would I still do brunch with friends, celebrate big events or wind down from a stressful day without drinking? Reevaluating my life free of alcohol would mean commitment, patience and effort, which are, shamefully, not my strong suits.

Drinking is so easy. The alcohol industry is on top of their game when it comes to advertising. There is an alcoholic version of almost any drink you can imagine. Even the Pope drinks wine! The current system pushes us to only consider an occasion special if there is a bottle of champagne. Mommy meetups, yoga classes and even baby showers are riddled with mimosa bars and “Bring Your Own Booze” suggestions on the invites.

Waking up is hard to do, but turning to other people who have stopped drinking alcohol gave me the push I needed, and I let their experiences engulf me. I listened to the people who have been in the trenches before me, and I began to dig my own trench. One that would protect me from the rounds of questioning, fear and temptation that would soon be fired in my direction.

My first step has been the realization that while I may suffer from an acute condition of terminal uniqueness, I am one of the many people who has entangled their pride with the party. Like a mountain of cheap headphones, I am currently tugging at the wires and seeing where they lead. Thus far, it has been a rollercoaster of emotion, boundary setting and revelation. I feel as though I have done more mental work in one week than I did in two years.

Where this journey leads, I have no idea, but I’m sure I’m at the precipice of something extraordinary. As with any new relationship, I am giddy to learn everything about this “new person.” I am learning to navigate other people’s opinions, as well as my own. I explain to no one and listen to everyone. I am taking a deep dive into why I relied heavily on drinking in the first place and what sobriety means for me in the future.

I am terrified. I am excited. I am in good company.

I am flirting with my sobriety, and I think it just might be flirting back.

33

LOITER LOCAL KERRY SPECKMAN

WINTER EVENT PICKS

34

JANUARY 20-24 AND 26-30 AND FEB. 2-6

JANUARY 23

SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN, ALHAMBRA THEATRE AND DINING

BRIAN REGAN, FLORIDA THEATRE

Just so there’s no confusion, the Alhambra’s production is based

Originally scheduled to perform in December, “your favorite

on Singin’ in the Rain, a 1983 stage musical based on Singin’ in

comedian’s favorite comedian” (as he was dubbed by Entertainment

the Rain, a 1952 movie musical about the making of The Dueling

Weekly) canceled after testing positive for COVID-19. Not sure if

Cavaliers, a 1920s-era “talking picture” musical. In other words,

this make-up show will include any pandemic-related material, as

expect lots of singing and dancing—and precipitation. And yes,

pandemics don’t typically produce comedy gold, but if anyone

the Ooey Gooey Buttercake is on the menu. Masks are required

can make a hacking cough entertaining, it’s Regan. Speaking of

(when not eating or drinking).

which, masks are required for attendees upon entering the venue.

ALHAMBRAJAX.COM

FLORIDATHEATRE.COM

JANUARY 22

JANUARY 23, 24, 30, 31 AND FEB. 6, 7, 13, 14

REZA: EDGE OF ILLUSION, T-U CENTER

COSMIC CONCERTS, MOSH

When you see a helicopter appear out of thin air or a man walk

If you’ve never “seen” music before, you’ve obviously never been

through an industrial fan with its blades a-spinning, you are not

to a Cosmic Concert at the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium. Laser

hallucinating. (Actually, you might be. I don’t know how you

lights, high-def images and digital sound combine in an immersive

live your life.) What you will experience, however, are the mind-

setting to create an out-of-this-world experience. Soundtracks vary

blowing, reality-shattering mega illusions of Reza. Prepare to wear

by show and include the music of Led Zeppelin, Metallica and

a mask throughout the performance or you just might do your own

Queen, as well as New Wave hits. Masks must be worn while inside

disappearing act—right out of the theater.

MOSH.

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THEMOSH.ORG

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FEB. 5-6

BEETHOVEN’S “EROICA,”, T-U CENTER Led by famed and fawned-over music director Courtney Lewis, the Jacksonville Symphony performs one of Beethoven’s most celebrated works—and the first composition in the second period of his career. The “radical” piece is considered one of the earliest examples of the Romantic Era music. The program also includes Strauss’ “Metamorphosen.” Masks are required of attendees inside the building.

JAXSYMPHONY.ORG

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Investment products:

Are Not FDIC Insured

Are Not Bank Guaranteed

May Lose Value

The Bull Symbol and Merrill are registered trademarks of Bank of America Corporation. © 2020 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

MAP3285860 | AD-12-20-0369.B | 470957PM-1020 | 12/2020

FEB. 6

ALLMAN BETTS BAND, ST. AUGUSTINE AMPHITHEATRE In the early 1960s, Gregg Allman and Dickey Betts formed the legendary Southern Rock group The Allman Brothers Band in Jacksonville.Now, their sons Devon and Duane, respectively, are making a name for themselves in the Americana genre, as part of the more equitably named Allman Betts Band. The ensemble is touring in support of its album Bless Your Heart. Masks are required in common areas of the amphitheater but not in ticketed seats.

THEAMP.COM

LISTEN ON APPLE MUSIC 35

FOLIO-KU HERES THE DEAL:

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ACROSS 1 Uruly Crowd 4 Protected body parts for Armada players 9 Old PC platform 14 Debtor’s Letters 15 San Sebastian Winery Option 16 Garlicky Mayo 17 32-Across org.

18 Overheard 19 Where to have a Mother’s day breakfast 20 Pantone’s ‘21 CoColors of the year 23 Awesomely tough 24 JU grads-to-be 25 Jag’s 3 p-ters 28 __ vera 29 Jaguar, eg.

32 Buffalo skaters 34 Jaunty piano tune 35 Once ___ a time...

37 Agenda Entries 38 Pantone’s 2020 Color 42 Insurance co. with a “spokesduck” 44 Israel Airline 45 #26 of 26 48 Terror 50 __ de cologne 51 Zeus’ wife

52 Metro Diner waiter’s award 53 Minshew Mistake 55 Sunglasses 57 See 20-Across 60 Spin 63 “M*A*S*H” Locale 64 Altar Vow 65 Bushy Boundary 66 Motionless 67 Poetic time 68 Affirmatives 69 Hidden Supply 70 Rap’s Dr. ___ DOWN 1 Passe hotel room amenity 2 ”C’es magnifique” 3 Spring clamp for holding papers together 4 Sends junk mail 5 Swamp mallow, e.g.

6 Well aware of 7 WJCT science show 8 Proofreader’s marks 9 Big part of a ship’s rigging 10 Perform with First Coast Opera 11 Fla. driver’s lic. info 12 ___ Miss

13 Rockers Vicious 21 OPEC Member 22 1040 inits.

25 Like some coffee 26 Underwood’s sparkler 27 Puncture Sound 30 Church Section 31 Cotton Cloth 33 A/C Mess 36 UF Sports Org. 39 Trail the pack 40 Kind of heel 41 Speaks like a bully 42 Back of boat 43 Usual night for local HS football games 46 Nook or Kindle 47 “Piece of cake!”

49 Explosive letters 51 Old witch 54 Polynesian carvings 56 Actor Ledger 57 Implore 58 ___ Blanc 59 Region 60 Folio reporter’s query 61 “___ Haw” 62 Bouncer’s Requests

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Solve this puzzle like a regular sudoku, but instead of using numbers, use the letters B-O-W-MA-N (for Jacksonville City Councilor Aaron Bowman).

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COLORING PAGE Want to sponsor the kids page?

Email teresa@folioweekly.com.

Design your own development: You have an interest-free loan from the City of Jacksonville to build your own Jacksonville Landing. How will you do it?

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MASK UP, JAX!

NOW HIRING SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS DRIVE THE FUTURE OF JACKSONVILLE! STARTING WAGE $15/HOUR PAID TRAINING PROGRAM PPE PROVIDED ASK ABOUT OUR SIGN-ON BONUS!

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WEAR A MASK WASH YOUR HANDS SOCIAL DISTANCE 38

In order to protect the health of our workforce and facilities, we are respectfully following the safety guidelines recommended by the CDC. Social distancing will be observed and face coverings are required on the premises of our operations. If you do not have a face covering, one will be provided for you.

AN OPEN APOLOGY TO THE FANS OF THE NFL

“IT’S OUR FAULT” Dear NFL fans and members of the sports media, On behalf of the Jacksonville Jaguars, we, the fans, would like to thank you for all of the attention you’ve been showering us with on Twitter lately. Given the soup sandwich of a season the team has had, it really does mean a lot just to know you are thinking about us—even it’s only in an attempt to insult us.

Saying we tanked and don’t deserve the first draft pick? Yep, you’re right. Winning the first game of the season against the Indianapolis Colts was all just a ruse, to divert attention from our diabolical scheme.

Suggesting Trevor Lawrence should go backpacking in Europe or threaten to turn pro in tiddlywinks rather than play for the Jags? H/T to @markkizla for the use of “tiddlywinks.” Just typing it made us chuckle. (By the way, how old are you?)

Referring to the team as the London Jaguars or acting surprised the Jaguars actually have fans? Well, actually, we’re laughing at you wankers for trotting out that tired old material year after unfunny year after still unfunny year.

Then, there’s New York Jets fan @mikeymals who Tweeted an actual list (in case you missed it, he went with numbers instead of bullets) of his gripes about Jacksonville—the team and the city—including, and we quote, “Their pizza sucks.”

The truth of it is, we are just as shocked as you are to be in this position. (Seriously, how in the hell did this happen?) Believe it or not, this is not somewhere we want to be. We would have much preferred vying for a spot in the Super Bowl (yes, it would be our first time … we know) over “winning” the first draft pick, but that’s how the oddly-shaped ball bounces.

for a president who never set the toe of one boot in the area (OK, maybe that one’s not so impressive) or that we have 22 miles of beaches, the youngest median age of any city in Florida, world-class museums, more shoreline than any other U.S. city, year-round sunshine and no state income tax. Also, our liquor stores have drive-thru service. (Remind us again real quick why Trevor Lawrence would hate it here?)

Oh! And now we have Urban Meyer as head coach.

Couldn’t forget that.

Who knows? You might be so impressed by Jacksonville you consider visiting yourself sometime (to which we say, bless your heart!). If you do come, though, we have some friendly advice (we’re good sports like that). Do not step to our mayor. Lenny Curry may be short in stature, but he will skateboard to wherever you are, whenever you tell him and Tweet about it. We’ll just leave it at that.

So to summarize: 1) we have the first pick of the draft, 2) your Tweets aren’t funny, 3) Jacksonville is cooler than you think, 4) Trevor’s golden mane will look even more glorious in the sun while he sips White Claws—or whatever they drink at Clemson—at a beachfront bar overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and 5) don’t poke the mayor.

We look forward to the new season and humbly apologize in advance for how good the Jags are going to be for the foreseeable future. Our bad, y’all. :( Best, Jacksonville P.S. #shutupbitch #DWTD

So as much as it pains many of you, you’re going to be hearing a lot about the Jaguars in the coming months. In the process, you’ll probably learn a few things about our fair city, too, like how we’re named

@folioweekly 39

SPORTS STUFF ISA BARRIENTOS

ON CUE: BILLIARDS OF TODAY POOL HALL CULTURE HAS EVOLVED OVER TIME, BUT THE REGULARS REMAIN.

PHOTOS THROUGH THE YEARS OF REGULARS AND FAMED PLAYERS AT BLANDING BILLIARDS.

Pool halls have aged gracefully into the new age. Having had a bad-boy reputation of booze and hustlers in the past, they have grown wholesome and wise as the demographic got older—but they didn’t lose their edge.

The spaces themselves are pretty standard: a dozen or so tables and a bar in a low-lit environment with the air of competitive comradery, and sometimes cigarette smoke, around the felt tops. Traditional and unpretentious, pool halls rarely advertise or play into the social media marketing of the day, as their customer base is built on regular clientele and word of mouth.

What defines a pool hall is the community that it builds; the characters who come through and the bonds that they form.

Being the oldest continually-running pool hall in Jacksonville, Blanding Billiards embodies this culture and carries a rich history. The dynamic, geometric motions of a million spinning spheres lingers along with the presence of regulars who have played there since the doors opened in 1989.

Over the years, Blanding Billiards has hosted several world-renowned pool players, including Allison Fisher and Grady Matthews.

Players have practiced and formed leagues there to compete in tournaments across the nation—though even the most competitive 40 40

of them say they mostly participate for the fun of it.

The pool hall has seen shifts in culture, remodels and changes in ownership.

People who weren’t there themselves have learned about Blanding Billiards’ history in oral tradition: Glenn and Gibby opened the pool hall and ran it for a year. Then Marty Goldberg bought it, and his girlfriend at the time, lovingly called “Mrs. Peach,” took over for the next 26 years. To long-time regulars, she was and still is the face of the pool hall.

Eddie Miller is the owner now. He grew up in the area and frequented the spot with his family. His father, Jim, took over after Mrs. Peach. When his father died three years ago, Miller dropped his lifelong career in the grocery business to carry the legacy of the memories and relationships in Blanding. He’s currently working on renovations.

He spoke with Folio about the history of the business before calling a long-time patron, “Kitkat,” on the fly to fill in the gaps.

She was there within minutes with her mug in-hand, ready to sing praises to the place she calls her second home.

Kitkat is quietly recognized as Blanding Billiards’ mother and keeper, along with Allison, her best friend and Mrs. Peach’s daughter. She’s been a regular since the beginning, and most everyone who walks

through the doors greets her right away.

With the graceful intensity that defines her, she speaks of all that she’s seen (and photographed) in 30 years. The local and professional players who have entered the space, those who came in with their parents as babies and are now adults, and the memorials they’ve helped organize for regulars who passed away.

Much has changed at the Blanding Billiards since it first opened. Being open 24 hours a day used to be a major selling point for the young and debaucherous, but these days, it closes up around midnight, making players feel like they’re in a restaurant with pool tables instead of pool hall with food.

The game is the same as it’s always been.

It’s psychological more than anything, says Kitkat. Players must use subtle manipulation to distract opponents and focus when they’re up. Pool teaches lessons of sportsmanship, physics and friendship.

The regulars remain close-knit, too.

Whether they’re giving pointers to beginners or competing against each other in tournaments, their love and familiarity for the sport and of one another is evident.

Oral tradition over the pool ritual tells the story of Blanding Billiards and of the pool hall - the game, the characters, and the synchronicities among them.

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EASTON CORBIN NOTICE OF NEW LOGO AND COPYRIGHT

WYD?

FEBRUARY 11 • 8:00PM TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

A SOCIALLY DISTANCED EVENT WITH SAFETY PROTOCOLS IN PLACE

HIT US UP... @FOLIOWEEKLY

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or 355.ARTS (2787) | floridatheatre.com 128 East Forsyth Street, Downtown Jacksonville 128 Forsyth Street | Downtown Jacksonville

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1/5/21 11:32 PM

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ADULT ADVICE SHARI AND TERRY JAYMES

TODD THE DUD IN THIS MONTH’S COLUMN: HOW DO I GET MY BOYFRIEND TO REALIZE HIS POTENTIAL? REPLY: TERRY: See, I still got it Shari!

SHARI: Yes, you do, Terry. But Kelly does need to know that Terry plays video games. Lots of them. When I’m home.

TERRY: Yes, I do. But I do it in front of your face. Big difference.

And secretly I think it turns you on. Anyway, your problem is an easy one. This is all playing out right, Kelly. I think two years is the proper amount of time to know who someone really is.

SHARI: If you’re pursuing your goals, I would think that he would find that motivating, Kelly. But after two years, it doesn’t sound like that’s happening. I’m wondering if a frank conversation with him would help, without being nagging.

Just lay it all out and tell him it’s a turnoff (I’m assuming it is, DEAR DUMBS, God I love your show. Your relationship is inspiring and not in a weird way. I believe you’re teaching couples to laugh at themselves and one another and to fill your days with fun instead of drama.

I’ve been dating a guy for a couple of years now. We seem to share similar traits as you both. We have a good chemistry.

We show each other love every day. My guy, I’ll call him “Todd”

you didn’t say). After that, if he still doesn’t improve, it may be time to move on. You don’t have to tell him again - THAT would be nagging.

TERRY: Shari is right. Once a guy knows something he’s doing (or in this case not doing) is a turnoff, he will change if you mean anything at all to him. That being said, here’s a fact you need to know. When somebody is truly passionate about their art,there’s not enough time in the day to do anything else. I

since this is in print and hopefully on the Gang of Two podcast.

think you’re dating a dud.

He’s kind and a creative type. He’s an artist, and I feel that may

SHARI: I think Terry’s right about Todd the dud. But if you

be the problem. He lacks goals and ambition.

haven’t already told him about your issues, now’s the time.

I am a dreamer as well, but I take action on my dreams instead of waiting for them to come to me. That’s why I have a little crush on Terry (Sorry Shari), he seems to go for his vision and I was hoping that “Todd” would be more like that.

I use a lot of my free time pursuing my goals and visualizing while he works at a bar a couple of nights a week and plays video games when I’m not around.

You see, I believe he’s capable of great things. Is there anyway to motivate him without nagging? Two years is more than enough time for a couple to show one another who they truly are.

I have dated ambitious men before and they usually end up being more into themselves and not really looking for a relationship.

KELLY,

After that, it’s on him.

TERRY: Yes. When Shari has a problem, she talks to me about it in a very calm, non-nagging tone and it works. I may take a few days to pout, but once I have time to process it, I get to work on that specific issue. Kelly, you are right. He is capable of great things and it’s super cool that you see that in him.

He’s very lucky to have your support. But don’t let support turn into enabling. There’s a real thin line there. You seem like a very nice person and your energy toward life is inspirational.

You’ve led by example. Have the serious talk and set a date in your mind to see some improvement. You deserve a guy who inspires you. If he doesn’t, you know what to do. Please keep us informed. We want the best for you.

ATLANTIC BEACH 43

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CONGRATULATIONS To All Of The Best Of Jax 2020 Winners!

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