Folio Vol. 39, Issue 17

FOLIO STAFF:

Flamenco Del Sur & Flamenco De La

Costa: A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage in Northeast FL

Teresa Spencer

the Rays Swim to Jax?

Kaleb Stowell

Poker Up, LIPS is Coming to bestbest

Jacksonville

Carmen Macri

Red,

Savanna Stillwagner

Outdated

Sophia

Magic Hidden in Tiny Places

Ariana Alcantara

Ambar

Still Rockin’ For St. Judes

Carmen Macri

Convoluted and Chaotic: The Caution

Ambar Ramirez

Laugh Out Loud While Loving Our Locals: The LOL Jax

Kerry Speckman

Swing, Sould and Sunshine: Amelia Island’s Jazz Festival Returns

Teresa

Teresa

Carmen Macri

The Fall Flavor Hunt

Kaili Cochran

The Underbelly Rebranded?

Gracie Bilger

GRACIE

SOPHIA

AVERY

ARIANA

I am emailing in hopes that awareness can be sent out to the community about how the 7 FWC commissioners have a conflict of interest because many are developers and trophy hunters themselves.

1. Rodney Barreto, President and CEO of Barreto Group, specializes in real estate investments and development. Filed a plan to build mansions, a marina, private docks and hundreds of condos on a habitat which has a high concentration of juvenile green sea turtles, sea grass, manatees, and fish. When asked about this at his confirmation hearing he said “I am in the business of making money”. Also called it a “victory” when they approved an expressway through Split Oak Forest- a vital habitat for the endangered gopher tortoise.

2. Sonya Rood, wife of John Rood. Owner of Vestcor companies. These companies are involved in real estate, development and construction.

3. Albert Maury, president and CEO of Leon Medical Centers, has 7 hospitals in Miami Dade. They sell medicare health insurance to elderly and limit their access to Leon facilities. Was fined for excessive speed in a manatee-protection zone.

4. Gary Lester, VP of Community Relations for the Villages and president of the Villages Charter Schools. Which has faced scrutiny regarding its development within or near protect ed areas.

5. Preston Farrier, CEO of Ferman Motor Car Company Inc. Trophy hunts bears, zebras, and many other animals on his safari trips to Africa.

6. Gary Nicklaus, partner of Nicklaus Brown and Company, involved in investing in technology and financial services. Connected to the attempt to undermine the public and put a golf course in a state park.

7. Steven Hudson, President and CEO of Hudson Capital group. This corporation has developed over 4,000 condos across the state. (He was actually the only one to vote no on this iss ue)

In December, the commissioners asked Bear Management about the need for a hunt, and they said no action was needed. The estimated bear population has not increased in the last 10 years. They are doing a bear population study that will not be completed until 2029.

The issue is overdevelopment leading to increased interaction. But, what is being suggested here is to drive them from their habitat and then just kill them. The people making this decision should not be developers themselves. The public needs to let their concerns be known by emailing or calling FWC. It is important to note that killing bears or establishing a bear hunting season will not resolve bear-human conflicts. As long as attractants are present, another bear will come in place of the bear that was killed. Furthermore, the allowed tactics for bear hunting are cruel and inhumane. The use of hounding and archery is unnecessary. (I will include a video. It is graphic but this what they are voting for on Wednesday.)

75% of Floridians are in opposition to this, but we are not the ones getting to decide. It is up to 7 trophy hunters and developers.

BOUQS & BRICKS BOUQUETS BRICKBATS

To California Governor Gavin Newsom for taking on Trump on his own battlefield: X (formerly known as Twitter). Yes, he’s California through and through, but don’t let that fool you: His political showmanship is razor-sharp. Newsom has perfected the art of trolling, mirroring Trump’s ALL-CAPS bravado and theatrical jabs on the platform. The difference? Trump doesn’t seem to enjoy a taste of his own medicine. Beyond the theatrics, Newsom is backing Proposition 50, a constitutional amendment on the November 4, 2025 special election ballot. If passed, it would pause the independent Citizens Redistricting Commission and hand redistricting power back to the Legislature to draw new congressional maps. Call it strategy, call it survival—but at least it’s transparent. That’s more than can be said for Trump and his Texas MAGA allies, who prefer to quietly bend the rules to rig their own midterms.

To Jacksonville City Council Member Rory Diamond, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, U.S. Senator Rick Scott and President Donald Trump for doing what they do best: telling lies and basking in the glory of their deceit.

Jenni

Words by Ambar Ramirez & Carmen Macri

Aries

This month is all about slowing down, Aries. Until Sept. 22, your health and relationship sector is front and center, so take the hint — rest, recharge and reset. Think of it as topping off your social battery so you can hit spooky season at full power.

Taurus, September opens with insight and lessons from your circle of friends, but grounding yourself at home and protecting your routine will be just as important. This month is full of contrasts, so stay flexible. Sparks may fly in unexpected places, and some connections could shift into something new.

It’s your season, Libra, and balance is your superpower. You’re radiating good vibes, and people can’t help but gravitate toward you. Use that energy to connect, collaborate and maybe even indulge a little. By the end of the month, you’ll feel like you’re walking into spooky season with all the scales in perfect harmony.

Taurus Gemini Cancer

The full moon on Sept. 7 is set to blow up your social calendar — you’ll be in demand all month long. But don’t forget to pace yourself because by Sept. 18 your creativity gets called to the front lines with a new project. It could be at work, at home or maybe just flexing your skills on the perfect pumpkin.

Cancer, the lunar eclipse on September 7 shines a light on your wisdom and growth, nudging you toward new lessons or long-awaited clarity. This month asks you to stretch—whether through travel, learning or simply broadening your perspective. Stay open, because what you discover could change the way you move forward.

Leo Virgo

September has you in the spotlight, Leo, and honestly, you wouldn’t have it any other way. Your charm is magnetic right now, so expect doors to open and people to follow your lead. By month’s end, though, you’ll want to carve out downtime to keep that fire burning steady.

This month highlights the changes reshaping both your personal and professional life, Virgo. Leaves are close to changing colors, and your shedding process is already underway, clearing space for what’s next. By the New Moon on Sept. 21, you’ll feel ready to step into a new version of yourself.

September’s got you diving deep, Scorpio. Intensity is your default setting, but this month it’s all about channeling that focus into creative or personal projects. Your intuition is sharper than ever — trust it.

Sagittarius, this month is all about widening your horizons. Whether it’s a new home, fresh surroundings or an opportunity to study or travel, doors are opening. Think of it as lining up your arrows — you’re getting ready to aim higher than before.

Libra Scorpio Sagittarius Capricorn

This month, Capricorn, the universe is nudging you to step back from the grind (shocking, I know). Until Sept. 22, lean into rest, reflection and maybe even a little fun. By the end of the month, you’ll feel recalibrated and ready to crush the last stretch of the year.

Be aware of the moon’s phases this month, Aquarius. Eclipses shine a light on what you truly value and what you choose to give away. The full moon brings clarity around your self-worth, money, energy—what’s moving, what’s stuck. The new moon pushes you toward transformation, especially in shared resources, commitments and intimate connections. Boundaries aren’t optional right now. Guard your energy, your finances, your circle.

Pisces, the lunar eclipse shines a spotlight on you this month, bringing full-circle moments from September last year. Old stories, choices and encounters might resurface, especially in relationships. Time to get practical about what’s shared or promised — and maybe turn a fresh leaf.

SEPT. 6

National College Fair

Special Events

Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center jaxevents.com

SEPT. 12

Brew at the Zoo Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens jacksonvillezoo.org

SEPT. 12-13

Florida Fin Fest

Sea Walk Pavilion flfinfest.com

SEPT. 12-14

Boot Scoot and Bourbon The Glass Factory eventbrite.com

SEPT. 13

Jax Book Fest–Writers’ Day Main Library jaxpubliclibrary.org

Boots & Bowties Gala The Clay Theatre, Green Cove Springs exploreclay.com

SEPT. 14

Come Together Music and Food Festival

Sesquicentennial Park theempoweredkitchen.com

Tunes and Blooms: Latin Night Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens jaxzoo.org

Jacksonville Eats

Riverside Arts Square eventbrite.com

Galaxy Fest

James Weldon Johnson Park jamesweldonjohnsonpark.org

SEPT. 18-20

Quiltfest

Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center quiltfestjax.com

Boot Scoot and Bourbon

The Glass Factory evenbrite.com

SEPT. 20

Jax Book Fest–Youth and Readers’ Day

Main Library jaxpubliclibrary.org

Duval Food Truck Festival Metro Park duvalfoodtruckfestival.eventbrite.com

SEPT. 27-28

Oddities and Curiosities

Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center worldodditiesexpo.com

The Great Purge and Splurge Clay County Fairgrounds, Green Cove Springs exploreclay.com

SEPT. 28

St. Augustine Record Fair

St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

SEPT. 30

“The Eyes Of The World: From D-Day to VE Day” Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxevents.com

Flamenco del Sur & Flamenco de la Costa: A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage in

Northeast Florida

Words by Teresa Spencer

Photo by Jennie Clavel on Unsplash

From mid-September through mid-October, the nation turns its attention to Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to recognize the cultural contributions, artistry, and history of Hispanic and Latino communities. Here in Northeast Florida, the celebration beats to the rhythm of the guitar and the staccato of heels striking wood. Two local ensembles, Flamenco del Sur and Flamenco de la Costa, bring the passion and elegance of Spain’s most iconic art form right to our backyard.

Flamenco, born centuries ago in the Andalusian region of southern Spain, is a fierce blend of dance, song and guitar. It’s not just performance, it’s beautiful storytelling. Through sweeping arm movements, lightning-fast footwork and raw, soul-piercing vocals, flamenco carries the weight of joy, sorrow, defiance and resilience. It’s no surprise the art form resonates deeply during Hispanic Heritage Month; a season built on honoring cultural roots and shared history.

Flamenco del Sur has been dazzling Jacksonville audiences for years with traditional flamenco infused with modern flair. Their performances highlight both the discipline and improvisation that make the style electric. Flamenco de la Costa, a younger but equally passionate troupe, brings the coast’s fiery interpretation of the dance, pulling inspiration from Spain’s seaside traditions while blending in local influences. Together, the groups are helping turn Northeast Florida into a small but mighty hub for authentic flamenco.

With live guitarists, singers and dancers, these performances pull audiences into a world where every clap, stomp and strum are heavy with mean ing. Whether you’re of Hispanic descent or simply a lover of world culture, flamenco in its pure form connects across language and heritage.

During Hispanic Heritage Month, catching a per formance by Flamenco del Sur or Flamenco de la Costa is a must if you are looking for a cultural celebration. Honoring tradition while watching it thrive in the present. Find them on facebook to see where you can catch a performance.

Available weekdays from 11am-3:30pm

El Favorito

2 tacos, 1 side, 1 drink Add an Agua Fresca for just $2

La Mini Oaxaca

$16

Our take on the classic tlayuda, made mini Choice of chorizo, pollo sinaloa, or al pastor & drink Upgrade to Asada for $3 A $22 Value!

Raices Trio

A perfectly crafted sampler:

$12

$13

1 carne taco (asada, barbacoa, or pastor), 1 seafood taco (ensenada or gobernador), 1 vegetariano taco

SEPT. 1

Run JAX Labor Day 5K 1st Place Sports–Baymeadows 1stplacesports.com

SEPT. 7

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Carolina Panthers EverBank Stadium ticketmaster.com

SEPT. 9-14

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Memphis Red Birds

VyStar Ballpark milb.com/jacksonville

SEPT. 13

Dreams Come True 5K UNF Campus 1stplacesports.com

SEPT. 19-20

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Glow-N-Fire

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena ticketmaster.com

SEPT. 20

Vestcor 5K Bridges Run Water Street, Downtown Jacksonville 1stplacesports.com

SEPT. 21

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Houston Texans EverBank Stadium ticketmaster.com

SEPT. 27

VyStar Emerald Trail 5K Run/Walk and 10K Run 633 N. Lee Street 1stplacesports.com

Photo by Aaron Berkshire

SHOULD THE RAYS SWIM TO JAX?

Words by Kaleb Stowell

Photo by Marcelo Cidrack on Unsplash

After their stadium suffered severe damage due to Hurricane Milton in October of 2024, rumors have been circulating that the Tampa Bay Rays have allegedly been considering moving out of Tampa Bay.

Where are the rumors coming from?

According to several sources, including the MLB itself, the team is attempting to find a way to keep the Rays in Tampa, but it has also been reported that the team is in advanced business talks with Jacksonville-based billionaire Patrick Zalupski to be sold. On July 14, 2025, “The Athletic” reported the Rays’ sale should be final by September, but the team is likely to remain in the Tampa Bay area due to the team having such a rich culture in the city.

Despite never having won a World Series, the Rays are a beloved part of Tampa Bay, and the team means a lot to the city. It would seem from most accounts that the Zalupski-led group purchasing the Rays understands this and intends to go through with the reconstruction for Tropicana Field.

Zalupski is the CEO of Dreamfinder’s Homes, a real estate agency that residents of Jacksonville are probably more than familiar with at this point. Dreamfinder’s Homes have played a large role in the mass development of some of the lesser-developed areas of Jacksonville’s rural infrastructure, with the company purchasing large lots of land to turn into residential neighborhoods.

What would an MLB team mean to Jacksonville?

Jacksonville has deep ties to the sport of baseball’s history, as the city hosted the first-ever Major League Spring Training in 1888. Despite that, Jacksonville doesn’t have a Major League Baseball team of its own. The city is home to an MILB team, the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, who are a beloved part of the city, but many Jacksonville baseball fans don’t understand why the city hasn’t brought baseball to the main stage yet.

Trey McNicol, a lifelong Jacksonville resident and sports fan, said that he was ecstatic when he heard that the Rays might be considering a move to the River City, stating, “When the rumors originally began circulating, I was shocked. I mean, having the Rays move here would be incredible, they’re a great team with a promising future.”

We also asked locals about the prospect of Jacksonville getting its very own MLB team from scratch. We spoke with Paul Kelly, a lifelong baseball fan who moved to Jacksonville from New York a few years ago. He said, “I think a new team in Jacksonville is more realistic than the Rays packing up and moving here, plus I feel like that would mean more to the people here than just being given another city’s team. If any MLB team were to move to Jacksonville, I think it would be the Marlins, since they’re already affiliated with the Jumbo Shrimp.” McNicol reinforced this idea, saying, “I would really like a Jacksonville-based team that’s new, though. Even if the Rays did move here, it would kinda feel like we’re just getting Tampa’s ‘hand-me-downs’ and I don’t think that’s the kind of vibe you want for your professional sports organization.”

If Jacksonville were to get an MLB team, they would need to build a new stadium, as the VyStar Ballpark can only sit about 11,000 people, whereas most MLB stadiums sit around 20,000-40,000 thousand people. Pitching another stadium construction plan to the city of Jacksonville right now would almost certainly result in a “no,” because the city just approved a $1.4 billion renovation to the EverBank Stadium last summer.

But don’t fear, baseball fans, just because it might not be happening right now, doesn’t mean it never will. With Zalupski moving to acquire the Rays, Jacksonville is in the best position it’s ever been in to get its own MLB team, with time and patience, who knows what might happen.

Words by Carmen Macri

Poker Up, LIPS is Coming to bestbet Jacksonville

Poker tables have long been a boys’ club — loud, crowded and overwhelmingly male. Walk into any card room and the tables are stacked with men, while women remain the rare exception. The Ladies International Poker Series (LIPS) is here to flip that script, one shuffle at a time. For more than 20 years, LIPS has been giving women the tools, the confidence and the stage to claim their place in a game that’s still stacked against them. It’s not just about winning chips — it’s about smashing stereotypes, forging connections and building a community where women don’t just play — they dominate.

This fall, Jacksonville gets a front-row seat. From Sept. 18–21, bestbet hosts the Florida State Ladies Championship, drawing players from across the country for a weekend of high-stakes action, camaraderie and unapologetic women power at the tables. Warm-ups, main events and all the drama in between — it’s more than a tournament; it’s a statement: Poker isn’t just a man’s game anymore.

“Since poker is a male-dominated sport and can often toss new players into the deep end with seasoned veterans, it may be intimi dating to new poker players — particularly women — in terested in getting in on the action,” Deborah Giardina, vice president of poker operations at bestbet, explained. “LIPS is a very special poker series because it is an all-women tournament. Many of these female poker players are already familiar and friendly with each other and our best bet staff, meaning that the atmosphere in the tournament area is almost that of a family reunion. These women are serious and competitive poker players, but LIPS brings an air of friendly competition rather than intimidation to the table.”

Girdina emphasized that any event uniting people through their love of poker helps strengthen Jacksonville’s reputation as a true poker destination. She noted that LIPS attracts players from across the country, giving them the chance to not only compete but also experience Jacksonville itself. According to her, the series’ stop at bestbet Jacksonville highlights the city’s thriving, accessible poker scene — welcoming both locals and visitors at every level of

“The feedback we receive from LIPS being hosted at bestbet Jacksonville is always positive. Not only are the local female poker players glad to have a tournament all their own, but the Kings & Queens event makes sure that the male players also get a shot at the action,” Giardina shared.

It all kicks off Thursday, Sept. 18, with the $580 No-Limit Hold’em World Poker Tour (WPT) Satellite, where winners snag a seat in the $5,000 WPT Jacksonville bestbet Scramble Championship this November. Friday heats up with the $140 LIPS Warm-Up and the LIPS Meet Up Game ($2-$5 NLH), streamed live on bestbetLIVE.

Saturday’s highlight comes at 11 a.m. with a Q&A featuring poker icons Linda Johnson and Jan Fisher — free and open to the public — followed by the $300 LIPS Championship. The excitement builds to Sunday, Sept. 21, when the Championship Final Table goes live on bestbetLIVE at noon. And when the ladies wrap up, the men get their shot in the Kings & Queens $200 NLH event, complete with a last-longest trophy for whichever king or queen outlasts the field.

Photo by Kateryna Hliznitsova on Unsplash

TRIVIA

MONDAYS

• St. Augustine Fish Company & Oyster House, 6 p.m

• V Pizza–Mandarin (music bingo), 6 p.m.

• Iguana on Park (cashpot bingo), 6:30 p.m.

• 9 Ball Heaven Sports Grill & Billiards, 7 p.m.

• Amici (music bingo), 7 p.m.

• Donovan’s Irish Pub, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.

• Mellow Mushroom–Durbin Park, 7 p.m.

• Mellow Mushroom–Fleming Island, 7 p.m.

• Mellow Mushroom–River City/Northside, 7 p.m.

• Mellow Mushroom–Tinseltown, 7:30 p.m.

• Rain Dogs, 8 p.m.

• Treylor Park (pop culture), 9 p.m.

TUESDAYS

• St. Mary’s Seafood (music bingo) 6 p.m.

• Mr. Chubby’s Wings–Fleming Island (music bingo), 6:30 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–St. Augustine, 6:30 p.m.

• V Pizza– St. Augustine, 6:30 p.m.

• The Back 40, 7 p.m.

• Bottlenose Brewing, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–Nocatee, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–San Pablo, 7 p.m.

• Gator’s Dockside–Oakleaf, (music bingo), 7 p.m.

• Harps American Grill, 7 p.m.

• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Atlantic Boulevard, 7 p.m.

• Island Wing Company–Bartram, 7 p.m.

• Jax Craft Beer, 7 p.m.

• Jerry’s Sports Grille, 7 p.m.

• Miller’s Ale House–Deerwood, 7 p.m.

• My Tap Room (pop culture), 7 p.m.

• Players Grille, 7 p.m.

• Shantytown Pub, 7 p.m.

• Southern Grill, 7 p.m.

• Surfside Kitchen, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.

• V Pizza–Fernandina (music bingo), 7 p.m.

• VooSwar, 7 p.m.

• Xtreme Wings Sports Bar and Grille, St. Johns, 7 p.m.

• Culhane’s Irish Pub–Southside, 7:30 p.m.

• Flask & Cannon / V Pizza (pop culture), 7:30 p.m.

• King Maker Brewing (name that tune), 7:30 p.m.

• Lynch’s Irish Pub (music bingo), 7:30 p.m.

• Monkey’s Uncle Tavern, 7:30 p.m.

• Time Out Sports Bar, 7:30 p.m.

• Tepeyolot Cerveceria, 7:30 p.m.

• Casbah Cafe, 8 p.m.

• Sahara Cafe, 8 p.m.

• Surfer the Bar (pop culture trivia), 9:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAYS

• Mr. Chubby’s Wings–Ponte Vedra (music bingo), 6:30 p.m.

• V Pizza–Mandarin, 6:30 p.m.

• The Beacon, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.

• Bold City Brewery, 7 p.m.

• Cruisers Grill, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–Nocatee, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–Mandarin, 7 p.m.

• Firefly Bay, 7 p.m.

• Ink Factory Brewing, 7 p.m.

• Island Wing–Bartram (music bingo) 7 p.m.

• Island Wing–Southside, 7 p.m.

• Lola’s Burrito & Burger Joint, 7 p.m.

• Mellow Mushroom–Avondale, 7 p.m.

• Miller’s Ale House–Hodges, 7 p.m.

• Mellow Mushroom–Jacksonville Beach, 7 p.m.

• Scarlett O’ Hara’s, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.

• Shaughnessy’s Sports Grill, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.

• V Pizza–Fleming Island, 7 p.m.

• V Pizza–Fernandina, 7 p.m.

• V Pizza–Palm Valley, 7 p.m.

• Veterans United Craft Brewery, 7 p.m.

• Burrito Gallery–Town Center (pop culture), 7:30 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–Fleming Island, 7:30 p.m.

• Harps American Grill (pop culture), 7:30 p.m.

• Hoptinger–5 Points, 7:30 p.m.

• Hoptinger–Jacksonville Beach, 7:30 p.m.

• Hurricane Grill–Fleming Island, 7:30 p.m.

• King Maker Brewing, 7:30 p.m.

• Time Out Sports Grill, 7:30 p.m

• Wicked Barley Brewing, 7:30 p.m.

• The Brix Taphouse (pop culture trivia), 8 p.m.

• Root Down (music trivia), 9 p.m.

* all games are general knowledge unless stated otherwise

THURSDAYS

• Ann O’Malley’s Irish Pub, 7 p.m.

• Bold City Brewery, 7 p.m.

• Bottlenose Brewing, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–Atlantic Boulevard, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings– Nocatee (name that tune), 7 p.m.

• Justice Pub (music bingo), 7 p.m.

• Island Wing Company–Southside (music bingo), 7 p.m.

• Kava and Company–San Marco (every other Thursday), 7 p.m.

• Miller’s Ale House–Avenues, 7 p.m.

• Mr. Chubby’s Wings–Ponte Vedra, 7 p.m.

• The Stout Snug, 7 p.m.

• V Pizza– Fernandina (what’s that song), 7 p.m.

• Burrito Gallery–Brooklyn (’80s, ’90s & 2000s), 7:30 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings– St. Aug, 7:30 p.m.

• Flask & Cannon / V Pizza, 7:30 p.m.

• V Pizza–San Marco, 7:30 p.m.

• Hoptinger–Jax Beach (music bingo), 8 p.m.

FRIDAYS

• Most Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 6 p.m.

• Time Out Sports Grill, 6:30 p.m.

• Engine 15 Brewing, 7 p.m.

• MVP’s Sports Grille, 7 p.m.

• Tepeyolot Cerveceria, 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAYS

• Hamburger Mary’s (HamBingo), 2 p.m.

• VooSwar, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–Atlantic Boulevard, 7 p.m.

• Dick’s Wings–San Pablo (pop culture), 7p.m.

• Ink Factory Brewing (name that tune), 7 p.m.

• Bottlenose Brewing (name that tune), 7:30 p.m.

Words by Savanna Stillwagner

R e d , y e l low,

greenlight sys tem for AIusage:

a c h a t w hti a .tS

Photo by Possessed Photography on Unsplash

Teaching in such a highly developed world has increased questions for anyone who cares about the well-being of our future, as we all wonder, what — and how — are our children learning.

For one first-year St. Johns County teacher, that question shows up daily, as they navigate political restrictions, artificial intelligence and the balance between homework and in-class learning.

With the continuation of controversy surrounding what classroom time looks like now that artificial intelligence is more relevant, we spoke with this teacher about their experiences in a new world of teaching.

“The job market’s relatively competitive.”

Landing a teaching job wasn’t as simple as just applying. The St. Johns County teacher, who wished to remain anonymous, recalled how competitive the market is, despite what some headlines said years ago, with schools filling positions at a 200-applicant job fair.

In fact, a 2024 report from the Florida Department of Education indicates that statewide teacher vacancies decreased by 13.3% in the 2024-2025 school year compared with the year prior.

“[At the job fairs] you go through mass interviews where you just interview back to back, and they offer you jobs on the spot,” said the teacher.

This teacher left the fair with a job opportunity in hand, but one of their colleagues wasn’t so lucky.

“He was not offered a position, and it took him four more months afterwards to find a job,” they added,

As our teacher quickly learned, getting hired was just the first step.

Teaching in 2025

Once in their classroom, this teacher faced the realities of modern teaching. “There’s so many legal factors that go into it that people don’t tell you about ahead of time. So, there are unpaid trainings, and you have to pay a good deal of money to get your certification through Florida,” they said.

This teacher, who teaches middle school English, has found themselves walking on eggshells when it comes to navigating these young minds through the knowledge of media.

“There are so many things you can’t mention in schools or, like, you’re really nervous to mention it in schools because of the political climate in Florida, you know, swinging more conservative. It gets really, really hard to talk about important topics in the classrooms.”

Even though materials are mainly put together for teachers to instruct their students already, this teacher said the political climate is restricting some teachers from going outside the textbook.

Navigating AI in the Classroom

AI has added another layer of complexity to the teaching experience. Our teacher described how working with students in the classroom face-to-face is the only way to ensure students are actually learning.

Homework, our teacher said, is an area of caution. Many teachers, such as the one we spoke with, prefer to keep assignments in class rather than assigning work to be completed at home, in part to prevent students from outsourcing tasks to AI, especially since phone usage during school is not allowed.

“Sometimes homework can just be busy work. I’d rather have them engaged during the 45 minutes I have them so that I can keep them busy and active rather than assigning homework they’re essentially not doing,” said our teacher. However, St. Johns County teachers are teaching their students how to use AI responsibly, rather than banning it completely.

The teacher emphasizes lessons about AI in the classroom focusing on how students can use it to support them to think for themselves.

In order to teach students this concept, teachers are using a “red, yellow and green light” system to help students understand what is considered acceptable use.

“Red is like asking AI to answer a question for you — that’s cheating. Yellow is like how should I structure this paper to help organize my thoughts,” said our teacher. “Green is using it to study with flashcards or quizzes that you input yourself.”

In addition to the light system, teachers also use AI detectors to ensure students aren’t using AI in their work. Turnitin. com and Copilot are common ones used by teachers.

Despite these guidelines, our teacher admits the system isn’t foolproof. They said the light system, in part, teaches students what not to do; therefore, they learn how to do it.

“Once students realize they can get away with it, some will. The only real way to get students to think on their own is to have them work with the material themselves, without technology,” they said. “They’re always going to go the easier route in my opinion.”

Teachers help teachers

Although our teacher emphasized the differences between veteran teachers and newcomers, St. Johns County has a system in place in order to keep consistency for its students through each classroom.

Our teacher described a St. Johns County tool called a “Professional Learning Community” as a way for all teachers to collaborate and share with their colleagues on what works well and what doesn’t, and how they can lesson plan.

“Once a week, my team will meet together, and you will all plan the same lessons together, so you really should be giving all students the same [lessons] no matter what classroom you are in,” said our teacher.

Even as this teacher guides students through lessons and AI etiquette, teachers are learning just as much as students in this ever-changing education system. In 2025, teaching is not just about delivering content — it’s about navigating technology, politics and human behavior to make learning stick and preserve self-thought.

Photo

Outdated Dress Codes and Their Double Standards

On the second day of school, Amelia Boyle, an 11th grader, walked into school in her normal school attire. Having not been at the assembly the day prior, she wasn’t aware the dress code had changed… again. And her once-appropriate skirt was no longer part of the dress code.

On her way to first period, Boyle was stopped by two deans. They said her skirt was too short and told her to go to the office and change. Boyle went, and as she was on her way, she noted another girl in the same skirt being stopped by the deans, too.

Boyle went to the dean’s office and was given a pair of shorts to wear. Not only did the office have enough shorts in stock to dress a small army, but a stack of confiscated shorts and skirts too, evidence that plenty of other girls had already been targeted. Remember, this was around 9 a.m. on the second day of school. It became clear that the dean wasn’t enforcing a rule anymore, but actively searching for violations.

After her classes finished, Boyle went back to the office to get her skirt. There she saw the girl from before, free from the frightening school-issued shorts that Boyle had on. So Boyle asked her why she didn’t get dress-coded. She replied, “[The dean] just gave me a warning.”

The girl told Boyle that she hadn’t been dress-coded before. What she failed to mention is that her mom is a teacher at our school. Whether or not that affected her getting dress-coded isn’t clear.

School should be a place where all students feel comfortable and free to express themselves. But when instances like these occur, we end up feeling shamed, embarrassed, and often scared when a certain dean walks by.

Of course, I understand that dress codes are in place for a reason. But what are they really accomplishing when they’re so heavy-handed? No teenage boy is getting aroused by my collarbones or shorts with a 3-inch inseam. And no one’s learning experience is in jeopardy due to my midriff.

What is in jeopardy is the comfort of students, especially young women like my friends and me. If you’re reading this, you already know how hot it can get in Florida, especially right when school starts in August.

Everyone at my school is used to it, the sweltering summers we go through each year. We compensate with clothing choices we feel less likely to melt in. These may include shorts, tank tops, and occasionally, an exposed belly button. Scandalous, I know.

So you would think that we’d be cut some slack, right? Especially the students who have classes in the outside portables, yikes.

Unfortunately, that’s not our reality. The female students at my school have to put up with these unfair double standards every day. Many of my peers have told me they feel watched by the deans at our school and uncomfortable with the rules in place.

Gender is a huge factor as to who gets dress-coded and who doesn’t. This past week alone, I’ve seen girls get dress-coded every day, and I’ve never once seen or heard of a male student getting in trouble for their clothing. The dean even specifically called out girls on the first day of school, telling them they wouldn’t be able to wear their outfits the next day.

Take my friend’s story, we’ll call her “M.” She came to school in an outfit that seemed pretty safe. A tank top and sweatpants. The tank top covered her whole stomach, excluding a slight peek of skin.

M went to the bathroom during class, and when she came back, she was told that a dean had come for her while she was gone. M’s teacher let her go to her friend’s class to borrow a hoodie. M put the hoodie over her tank top and went about her day.

But the hoodie wasn’t enough. M was still called to the office a little while after. The dean told her to take her hoodie off, and then she was promptly dress-coded.

On the other hand, football players can freely walk down the halls with their jerseys rolled up, stomachs on display, and not be stopped by a single teacher.

After telling me her story, M said she should’ve kept her hoodie on. Hearing her say that frustrated me. She shouldn’t have been pulled out of class in the first place, and she was blaming her decisions instead of the school’s.

Not only do dress codes target women, but often students of color, too. According to a U.S. Government Accountability Office analysis, the likelihood of a school putting a strict dress code in place increases as the percentage of students of color (specifically Black and Hispanic students) increases.

Additionally, as reported by “NEA Today” in 2019, 18% of LGBTQ+ students stated that their school’s dress code didn’t allow them to wear clothes that resonated with their identity.

That’s why I believe this system needs a change. Because teenage girls have enough to worry about, let alone what we’re allowed to wear on a hot day. We deserve the right to express ourselves through our clothing and dress without shame. And we deserve a dress code that lets us accomplish this. One that isn’t outdated, inconsistently enforced, and more distracting than a strapless top ever will be.

Words by Teresa Spencer

Stage Aurora: Theatre That Enlightens

Since 2000, Stage Aurora Theatrical Company has been raising the curtain on stories Jacksonville needs to hear. Founded by Darryl Reuben Hall, the company set out to fill a cultural gap on the Northside, professional theatre rooted in the Black experience.

Two decades later, their track record speaks volumes: more than 200 productions — from “Dreamgirls” and “The Wiz” to “Fences” and “The Color Purple.” Hall’s original work “Dinner with Booker T.,” a one-man powerhouse of a show where he embodies 16 characters, has become a signature piece.

But Stage Aurora has never been just about what happens under the spotlight.

Their outreach runs deep, from literacy skits in schools to 100 Youth Voices, an afterschool music and performing arts program creating a safe, positive space for ages 5–21. It’s community building “disguised” as theater training — and it works.

This year marks their 25th anniversary, and they’re celebrating big: an Anniversary Gala at WJCT Studios on September 29, followed by Porgy & Bess at the FSCJ Kent Campus Auditorium, November 7–8.

Stage Aurora doesn’t just put on plays. They put history, faith and culture center stage, and Jacksonville is stronger and wiser for it.

Photo provided by Stageaurora.org

THEATER/DANCE/FILM

THROUGH OCT. 5

“Come From Away”

Alhambra Theatre & Dining alhambrajax.com

SEPT. 4-6

Amelia Island Dance Festival

Amelia Community Theatre, Fernandina Beach ameliaislanddancefestival.org

SEPT. 5-13

“Almost Maine”

Blue Fire Theatre, Yulee bluefiretheatre.org

SEPT. 9

Disney Descendants/Zombies

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevents.com

SEPT. 12

Story Slam: First Spark BABS LAB at CoRK barbaracolaciello.com

SEPT, 12-14

“Old Jews Telling Jokes”

Amelia Musical Playhouse, Fernandina Beach ameliamusicalplayhouse.com

SEPT. 12-27

“GUTENBERG! The Musical!”

The 5& Dime Theater Company the5anddime.org

SEPT 12-OCT. 5

“Nunsense”

Limelight Theatre, St. Augustine limelight-theatre.org

SEPT. 19

Avatar: The Last Airbender In Concert Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

SEPT. 19-OCT. 4

“Harlan & Bronna Jump Out of the Window” Good Shepherd Episcopal Church lumenrep.org

SEPT. 20

Make ’em Laugh

The Island Theater, Fleming Island theislandtheater.com

SEPT. 27

“Monty Python and the Holy Grail” screening with John Cleese Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

“Stand”

Ritz Theatre & Museum jaxevents.com

SEPT. 28

Michael Carbonaro Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

SEPT. 29

Stage Aurora 25th Year Celebration Gala

WJCT Studios stageaurora.org

THE SUMMER I WAS IN TURNED PRETTY’

‘THE

SUMMER I

Photo by Tyler Rooney on Unsplash

Words & photos by Avery Manfreda

It was summer when I appeared on the third season of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” (more on that in a minute), the Amazon Prime Video hit series that has the internet obsessed. Whether it’s on TikTok or Instagram Reels, fans are coming together to post video edits, theories and debates about the love triangle and Team Conrad/Team Jeremiah, who happen to be brothers. Gen X, Millennials and Gen Zers are tuning in for this summer teen drama, even my parents are avid watchers. In the show, the main character, Belly, has spent every summer at her family friends’ summer house with two boys around her age. Throughout the show, she constantly has difficulty choosing between the brother she wants to date, sparking major conversation online with fans.

Last spring, I worked as a background actor on the show. The series is set in a beach town called Cousins Beach, but in reality, it is filmed in Wilmington, North Carolina, which happens to be where I go to school. Watching the show air week by week and seeing everyone’s reaction hits a little differently because I was behind the scenes with the adored actors.

Whenever there are extras needed for any TV show or movie, casting calls are posted on Facebook. As a student at UNC Wilmington who is always picking up side hustles, being an extra is definitely my go-to.

I had read all three books of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” series by Jenny Han in high school, and I had no idea it was even filming nearby. In the casting calls, the show was under a code name to avoid gaining too much attention, so I did not know what I was getting myself into. When I got to the set and found out what show I was really on, I was ecstatic. I was going to be on one of my favorite shows!

Cape Fear Country Club as the Cousin’s Beach Country Club, Wilmington, North Carolina. Seen throughout all 3 seasons.

Working as an extra may not be as glamorous as one may think. Most of the days I worked on set spanned from seven to even 12-hour shifts, and we could only have our phones during a meal break. None of this mattered to me, though. I got to be dressed up by professional wardrobe stylists and get my hair and makeup done to be camera-ready. These artists would be on call to fix any makeup or brush out a piece of hair, even for the background actors. The actor who plays Jeremiah (Gavin Casalegno) was extremely friendly and was taking time to talk to everyone. I remember walking to the set, and he was at the front door welcoming every extra inside. He would always say thank you for coming out to work and wish us good morning and good night. The other actors were sweet as well, but not as outgoing as Casalegno.

The first time you can spot me is in season 3 episode 1 at the big frat party (46:56) behind the newly introduced character, Lacie Barone. We filmed at a house in downtown Wilmington, which is on the same street as some of the famous houses from the series “One Tree Hill.” I was put in a hoodie, skinny jeans, and wedged heels … as a college student, we do not wear these kinds of things to parties. The windows of the house were covered with blackout tape, so even when we were filming in broad daylight, it felt like the middle of the night. It felt like an eternity spent in that house, when it was about seven hours (which is still pretty long). The frat house felt like a legit party with neon lights, Greek letters and a smoke machine. We had to dance in complete silence, awkwardly have fake conversations with the other actors, and hold a red Solo cup of non-alcoholic beer. At first, it felt a bit embarrassing, but once everyone got in the groove, it became super silly. There was always something going on. As a pro-people watcher, this was a crazy, fun experience to just sit back and observe. I never realized that just a one-minute scene at a party took hours and hours of reshoots and forced dancing.

Now that I am watching the new episodes’ reactions online, I don’t just see the edits and comment section arguments — I see myself… because I am actually in the scenes that are being posted. I feel like I get to be both a fan and a part of the show at the same time. I may not have been walking the red carpet at the show’s premiere, but seeing my face on a big screen is surreal enough.

CAAMP At The Amp

It was another fantastic night at The Amp with ocean breezes and Blundstone vibes. Caamp headlined the evening, supported by two standout openers: Ona and Fruition.

I came in with no frame of reference for either Ona or Fruition, but had great expectations based on reviews from other photographers in the pit. They were spot on. Ona, an indie-rock band made up of lifelong friends Brad, Bradley, Zach, Zach….and Max, hail from West Virginia and brought a raw but authentic energy to the stage. Fruition kept the momentum going with just as much passion and joy. Both bands radiated a genuine love for the music they were playing and I enjoyed watching them truly feel their way through every song. There’s something undeniably cool about seeing a band play a smaller stage with that up-close vibe, but I don’t think Fruition or Ona will be flying under the radar much longer. Needless to say, by the end of both sets, both bands secured a permanent spot in my Spotify rotation.

Caamp took the stage a little after 8 p.m. and set the tone with a sharp crack of a beer into the mic and then musically kicked things off with “Come With Me Now.” Their set was lit in warm hues and had the inviting feel of a library — the kind where books share space with a drum kit and electric guitars. Fittingly, their songwriting is deeply rooted in storytelling. The band began as a project between childhood friends Taylor Meier and Evan Westfall. Some say they met at camp, others say it was high school — but honestly, who cares - what’s important is that they met and I’m seriously grateful for musical magic that followed.

Caamp’s setlist was a solid mix from across all their albums, going back to their 2016 self-titled debut. A little over half way through the set, the band switched things up with Taylor taking a back seat on the drums and Matt Vinson taking the lead for a poppy cover of Empire of the Sun’s “Walking on a Dream.” The encore consisted of two solo’s by Taylor Meier. I was personally hoping for “Snowshoes” but Taylor’s solo’s more than made up for it — so I had to Let Things Go.

Simply put, the show was amazing and honestly, I can always go for a little bit of rock and roll.

Every Brushstroke Tells A Story: Inside Tonya McGuire’s Studio

St. Augustine abstract artist blends realism and symbolism to capture stories of transformation and healing.

The teal hummingbird dances in motion, its wings blurred but deliberate. A woman, the focus of the canvas, looks back over her shoulder. Surrounding the two, layers of oil paint shimmer with both shadow and light, pulling the viewer into something more than a portrait. A story.

For St. Augustine artist Tonya McGuire, “She Looked Back — Just Once” isn’t only a painting. It’s a reflection of her own healing and transformation, one she has poured into her ongoing series “Portraits That Speak.”

Art has always pulled at McGuire, but her path wasn’t straightforward.

“I didn’t even know I would find a passion for it again,” she said. “I remember it as a little girl, but my folks were on the track of performance and more college bound.”

McGuire spent two decades in kitchen and bath design at Home Depot, later moving into leadership roles in technology and fiber. She prioritized her career, single motherhood and caring for others before her own needs. But when a life-threatening heart condition required surgery, everything changed.

“It made me stop,” she said. “It made me be able to look over my shoulder and honor the past and move forward, which brought me to the reason why I painted what I did, “She Looked Back — Just Once.”

Every detail in the portrait is a form of symbolism. The teal hummingbird represents movement, hope and freedom. Lotus petals bloom near the subject’s cheek as “proof that beauty grows from mud.”

Even the tattoo on the subject’s shoulder is intentional.

“Her tattoo isn’t decoration, it’s a declaration of survival, of soft power, of becoming” McGuire explains. “She’s not stuck in the past. She’s honoring it, before rising.”

What began as a way of healing soon grew into her signature work, “Portraits That Speak.” Paintings that hold memory, story and resilience.

McGuire also created a series, “Heartbeat on Canvas,” nine paintings each marked with a band of color representing her own heartbeat. Though sold individually, together it created the one heartbeat.

“If I hadn’t have had the irregular heartbeats that brought me to my knees, then I never would have been on the canvas with anything that would have related to people and transformation. And we can’t live without a heartbeat. So I call it the heartbeat on canvas,” McGuire said.

But, McGuire doesn’t just paint her own story, she helps others tell theirs. Each month, she hosts a free art workshop where she guides others through the painting process.

“I’ve just done it as part of who I am and wanting to share art with people because it is so healing,” McGuire said. “The feedback has just been amazing. They tell me ‘I never thought I could do this or I never thought I could do that’ and it creates this peace they might not have had otherwise.”

She also takes commissions. One collector, an 84-year-old widow, had recently lost her husband and struggled to talk about it. When she adopted a dog named Luna, she helped pull her back into life, so much that she asked McGuire to paint Luna’s portrait.

“That was the idea with the ‘Portraits That Speak,’” McGuire said. We hold back from doing what we want to do to acknowledge or honor whatever has touched our lives because we just get busy. I share how they hold the memory and the love. So I invite collectors to see their own journeys reflected back in these works because art at its best doesn’t just decorate a wall. It speaks into our lives.”

The teal hummingbird still hovers, as she glanced back before moving forward. In its delicate flight, McGuire finds both her own healing and a gift to others.

“At the end of the day, I don’t just paint portraits. I paint reminders that we are all resilient, all becoming, all worthy of joy.” she said. “If my work helps one person see themselves with new eyes, then I’ve done my job as an artist and as a human being.”

Like the woman in the painting she looks back, only once. Then she creates art and meaning in the present.

The Art Center Cooperative tacjacksonville.org

Beaches Museum beachesmuseum.org

Butterfield Garage Art Gallery butterfieldgarage.com

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens cummermuseum.org

FemArt Gallery femartgallery.org

First Coast Cultural Center firstcoastculturalcenter.org

Flagler College–Crisp Ellert Museum flagler.edu

Florida Community College at Jacksonville fscj.edu

Florida Mining Gallery floridamininggallery.com

Gallery 725 gallery725.com

Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum, St. Augustine staugustine.ufl.edu

Haskell Gallery at Jacksonville International Airport jaxairportarts.com

Hillary Whitaker Gallery hwhitakergallery.com

Jacksonville Main Library tacjacksonville.org

Jacksonville University ju.edu/cfa

The Lightner Museum lightnermuseum.org

MOCA Jacksonville mocajacksonville.unf.edu

PAStA Fine Art Gallery pastagalleryart.com

Ritz Theatre & Museum ritzjacksonville.com

Southlight Gallery southlightgallery.com

St. Augustine Art Association staaa.org

Stellers Gallery stellersgallery.com

Thrasher-Horne Center Gallery thcenter.org

Touché Gallery touchegallery.com

The Unicat instagram.com/the_unicat_jax

University of North Florida unf.edu/gallery

The Vault at 330 thevaultat1930.com

Yellow House yellowhouseart.org

ONGOING

Art Walk

Downtown Jacksonville lights up the first Wednesday of the month with art by local artists at hubs in James Weldon Johnson Park, The Jessie and Vagabond Flea at VyStar Tower from 5–9 p.m. Visitors can also enjoy live music, food trucks, street performers, free admission to MOCA and complimentary rides on JTA’s Skyway. dtjax.org

Fernandina Beach Arts Market

Amelia Island’s premier arts and crafts market comes alive the second and fourth Saturday of every month from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. fernandinabeachartsmarket.com

Riverside Arts Market

Artists, artisans and makers display their original paintings, jewelry, photographs, prints and other handcrafted items every Saturday — rain or shine — from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Riverside Avenue underneath the canopy of the Fuller Warren Bridge. riversideartsmarket.com

St. Augustine First Friday Artwalk

On the first Friday of every month (hence the clever name), more than 30 galleries around the Oldest City open their doors from 5–9 p.m. for visitors to browse exhibits and interact with artists. A complimentary trolley service provides transportation between downtown venues. staaa.org

Vilano Beach Artisan Market

Part beach party, part arts market, this monthly event includes works by local artists and locally-made products, as well as live music. The market takes place on the third Saturday of every month from 4-8 p.m. on A1A and Vilano Road. facebook.com/vilanobeachofficial

Magic Hidden in Tiny Places

Children have an advantage. They view the world as a playground, inventing games to pass the time, and conjuring up worlds that we adults forgot how to see. I often find myself envying the perspective of children, being able to look at a car and see a spaceship, to see a shadow and think “there could be something hiding there.”

When I was younger, I would play in the woods behind my grandmother’s house. One day I found a tiny doll, unlike any I had seen, I took it home with me, imaging the person that lost it; maybe they were running from home and left behind their prized possession, maybe it was an elf that lived in those woods and I stole their favorite object. Over the years I collected these found treasures, until I forgot to look for them anymore. I think that really is a mark of growing up that a lot of us fall victim to; we are so busy building our lives and careers that we forget to look around. It is a tired conversation, but there are a plethora of distractions that plague our lives: phones, screens, noise. You can’t even go to the beach anymore without being faced with an ad floating past you on a boat. The opportunities for daydreaming are dwindling, and the need for wonder is higher than ever.

Carey Wright is an example of someone who maintains the childlike wonder. As a travel nurse he has seen every part of America, though his home is here in Jacksonville. His life is split between home, hotels and the various hospitals he visits for work. This lifestyle, one can imagine, could be lonely, but was exacerbated, as many things were, with the COVID outbreak in 2020. He had his own way of dealing with this devastation, though, in the form of tiny sculptures.

“When I was stuck in those hotels, trying to be a good little COVID nurse boy, I would have to entertain myself, and it kept me from being mopey or sad, ’cause I was away from home,” he recalled.

Creating tiny sculptures kept him from thinking about the loneliness of life on the road. They are figurines with exaggerated features that he created with found objects while stuck in hotel rooms. He does not consider himself an artist, but a keen attention to detail is evident through the crafting of these sculptures. He calls them “bumpkins,” a name that, to him, encapsulates the atmosphere of Florida, a piece of home when he is far away. He started making them just for himself, but that soon changed.

“When I was travelling, that’s what I’d do there. So I had the wife buy me a little oven, like a little cake and bake oven that little kids make muffins in. And I had a whole box full of tools. And so I make them there at night when I’m not being a bum or lonely,” he said. “That’s what I do to not be lonely.”

“So I started these, you know, when I was stuck in the snow up in Quincy, Illinois … and then I would hide them around the hotel. It was very much a game I was playing, but then I would come back, and they would always be gone, and I’d be mad like they’re throwing them away. But then, later that week, a patient came in, at the hospital I was working at, and she showed me the third little bird house with, like, bird legs hanging out of it, that she collected. Her husband, Randy worked at the hotel.

He was the maintenance guy, and he wasn’t throwing them away. He found them — his treasures — and brought them home to his wife.” After this initial fortuitous interaction with the patient, Wright was inspired to share more bumpkins with the world.

“I’d go somewhere and grab a thing and then hide it on my travels. And someone would find it and go to [my] website and put that they found it somewhere neat, like I’ve got Rio in there. And another place that’s really cold. Antarctica is in there, and two Scotlands are in there. And that was really kind of fun to make these things, but it started the whole bumpkin ’cause I would go to places, and I would kind of bring Florida with me.”

I asked him how he decided the hiding place for the bumpkins.

“I mean, I’d hide these little treasures so if they’re ever discovered, they’d kind of be hidden, so you feel like you discovered it and it wasn’t just sitting there on your car handle…I don’t want to be obvious. I don’t want the wrong person to find it,” he explained.The people that normally find my things are fairly creative also. They’re clever. Some of the places that I’ve hid them, I’m like, you can only really have found them if you weren’t supposed to be there.”

“...when people started finding them, it’s a huge thrill… I stuck one on the jetties. I never thought it’d see the light of day. I mean, it was in a crack. But the guy found it and wrote the best thing on [the website]. He’s a fingerprint pathology instructor or something. That was two years ago. It still was the biggest bunch of joy.”

The people finding these bumpkins happened upon them by chance. The creation of the bumpkin was from the necessity of a man to survive the loneliness and hardship of nursing during this generation’s most impactful event. But through his salvation came a chance for others to be a part of the magical little worlds he was creating.

“It’s real. So much, especially with AI, you can see you could create anything you want, but AI kind of cheats it … we’re spoiled, we’ve got access to everything on the computer. You see something handmade or crafty or clever, it definitely is genuine; it’s a little more human. You see an old car or an old motorcycle, and you see the craftsmanship that went into it. That’s a human touch,” Wright said. “That’s the connection, that’s my connection to it. You see my little guys, like I don’t want it to look like a real man. I don’t want perfect. I want the human.”

Bumpkins are proof that even if you do not believe in fairies or invisible worlds in the woods, magic is all around, if you just look for it. Pay attention to the details surrounding you, take a look around and get outside of the routine. If you look hard enough at your life, maybe you will find a hidden treasure.

To see more of Wright’s work or share where you found your bumpkin, visit his website at careywright.com.

“That’s the connection, that’s my connection to it. You see my little guys, like I don’t want it to look like a real man. I don’t want perfect. I want the human.”

SING OUT LOUD FESTIVAL

ONE PANEL AT A TIME

Words by Ambar Ramirez

In coffee shops, sketchbooks are filled with heroes and villains. At kitchen tables, stories come to life with characters and inner monologues. Across Jacksonville, comic illustrators are quietly building worlds that are anything but small. From sharp political commentary to whimsical characters, these artists are redefining what it means to tell a story through ink and imagination.

Andrew Kozlowski , artist, educator and small press publisher, remembers his first art experience. It wasn’t in a museum or in a movie theater; it was in newspapers.

“I think comics were like the first art experience that I ever had,” Kozlowski recalled. “The first thing I wanted to do was be a comic book artist. When I was like 10, I understood that people drew those things, but I didn’t understand how you did that.”

When Kozlowski headed to college, comic illustration wasn’t even offered as a course of study, so he pursued a degree in fine arts instead. Still, storytelling and comics remained a thread running through everything he created. He put his degree to full use—painting murals, screen printing and teaching as a professor at the University of North Florida. But when COVID hit, his focus shifted inward, and he began exploring what smaller-scale work he could create from the confines of his desk.

“I turned 40. It was like a midlife crisis or something like that. And I was like, yeah, sure, let’s do this,” Kozlowski shared. “That’s how I started to make these comics.”

Kozlowski describes his work as largely autobiographical, often drawing himself as a character. While some creators thrive on building elaborate casts of characters, Kozlowski admits he sometimes feels uneasy stepping into perspectives outside his own. It can be a lot to juggle. Instead, he trusts himself to represent his own story, for better or worse. Over time, that choice has shaped not only the way he writes but also the way he sees the world.

“I draw myself, I am my character, and like I said, part of that is just figuring out who I am and having that avatar be there to say those things,” Kozlowski said. “I think also part of it is that what I’m writing about is what I’m experiencing. So who better to do it than me?”

Along with publishing comics through Paper City Publishing and consistently posting panels on Instagram (@andrew.kozlowski), Kozlowski stumbled into something he never had growing up — a community rooted in comic design and illustration, most visibly through the Duval Comic and Zine Fest. And while he didn’t have access to a comics class as a student, he eventually went on to create one himself at UNF. Considering so much of his work explores cycles and patterns, it feels fitting, almost inevitable, that Kozlowski’s own path would come full circle.

“Shapes” by Andrew Kozlowski

“Anaisthesis” by Andrew

Kozlowski

Janisha Ocana grew up on old school anime like Sailor Moon and Dragon Ball Z, but it wasn’t until she got to middle school that she began drawing for herself.

“I actually started out storyboarding because I love, like, the little anime openings and so I would do, like, this storyboard bits of, like, either my personal character or from random songs that I listen to,” Ocana shared. “So then I think later on in middle school, I started to make my own characters and started making comics. But I don’t think I fully started doing my own personal series stuff until like 2020. So it’s been a long, long road.”

Much like the anime she grew up on, Ocana finds herself stepping into and creating another world with fictional characters. As she put it, her style is otherworldly.

“I feel like, yes, my story looks like a typical, almost like a shojo manga, but I kind of like to throw in some space theory and some astrology,” Ocana explained. “So it’s stuff that makes you think, but is, like, very out there.”

When developing a comic, Ocana is all about the big picture. Usually beginning with a concept and then weaving the characters into it. But often, the characters seem to take on lives of their own: Sometimes phasing themselves out, sometimes forcing their way in. Ocana’s current series, Universe, is a perfect example. The main characters appearing now weren’t part of the original plan; earlier ones faded into the background and may return later, while newer ones ended up fitting the story more naturally. It’s about staying flexible, allowing the narrative to shift, letting characters evolve and even leaving space for the audience to influence the direction.

“Universe is a sci-fi fantasy webcomic series, and it revolves around these cosmic beings called remnants. And I always tell people that they are, like, fully energetic beings that helped prevent the collapse of the universe. And they’re kind of, like, learning about that as they go. They’re just kind of, like, feeling their way out in the world, too,” Ocana said. “So it’s definitely evolved from what I originally had when I kind of had the idea back in high school to now, but it is very much like an exploration on space theories, but with a more human aspect of, like, we don’t know what we’re doing.”

Where Kozlowski allows his own character to navigate life, Ocana uses her characters to navigate that for her.

And while comic creations are a sense of escape, creation and reflection for Kozlowski and Ocana, for Cam Lopez, being a comic illustrator has always been about community.

“I’ve been drawing since I was, like, really, really, really small,” Lopez said. “I know it’s the generic answer, but, really, since I could hold a pencil.”

As a child, Lopez was constantly drawing and even making little comic books to bring to school, so much so that classmates would ask when the next issue was coming out. Looking back, they admit the work was pretty rough, but the spark was there. What first drew them in was a love of cartoons, especially the ones that defined the ’90s and early 2000s on Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon.

As they’ve gotten older, Lopez has found themself visiting super specific themes and concepts that are specific to their own life but told through characters they’ve created that are inspired by the people they meet.

“It’s always hard to describe your own stuff because you have to kind of, like, think of how other people would see it. I guess like it’s really informed by the punk and DIY community a lot more lately. In the past, like five or six years, I got really into that whole community,” Lopez shared. “But once I started getting drawn towards the indie comic stuff, I started getting into like punk stuff. And then that’s when I saw a lot of, like, indie, comic artists, and it wasn’t just about, like, pure draftsmanship or like technical skill. It was about being specific about something.”

What stood out to Lopez about many indie comic artists was that the work wasn’t about technical perfection or pure draftsmanship—it was about authenticity. It was about saying, “This is how I draw. This is how I see the world.” That perspective shaped their own approach, leading them to emphasize specificity in their work. They often include details that a reader could point to and recognize instantly, even if the style is a little loose or unrefined.

“I think in the past few years I have been a lot better about embracing the imperfection of stuff because that’s just closer to real life,” Lopez said.

In comic illustration and storytelling, the person holding the pen holds all the power. Whether the story draws from personal experience or pure fiction, it’s shaped entirely by the artist. For Drew Arnett , creating comic books has become a way to nurture and feed his inner child.

It was the fourth grade, Arnett recalled, when his brothers would be reading “Captain Underpants” and would make their own comics inspired by the series. Arnett, being the youngest, did whatever his brothers did and began making his own comics. While his brothers grew out of that phase, Arnett stuck with it.

“Unintentionally, a lot of this stuff I write is for little kids. So I guess that’s kind of my niche, just something more innocent and whimsical. And it’s just something I’ve always liked to do,” Arnett shared.

Arnett has also always gravitated toward illustrating and creating characters around animals. What animal you may be wondering? Just whichever animal he is obsessed with that month.

“Maybe one month I’ll be really obsessed with squirrels for some reason. And this month I’ve just been weirdly obsessed with ants,” Arnett laughed. “They’re just really fun to draw.”

When it comes to giving these creatures a voice and personality, he takes cues from the nature of the animal itself. For example, one comic features a small pig character who is clumsy and a little babyish, yet endearing in that very way.

For Arnett, illustrating comics and personified animals is all about having fun. For in Virginia, creating political comic strips and cartoons for news papers or magazines is about making an impact.

“What attracted me to political cartooning is that you can make an impact with your work. There are responses. You can change your characters, layout and even subjects daily. Cartooning is like any art you can use to effect change. I love that I can use humor on serious subjects,” Jones shared. “I think we provide comfort more than we can effect change. In these crazy times, political cartoons help people destress and tell them they’re not alone.”

Through political cartooning, Jones sprinkles in humor — and it’s through that humor that he truly expresses himself. Even in the face of uncertainty or discomfort, he finds that these are the moments where he thrives as an artist.

“I feel I’m having an impact when people scream at me because of my cartoons. If someone’s mad at what the cartoon says, then I did something right,” Jones said.

Join the Jacksonville Music Expearience on for this special live edition of The Neighborhood with Mr. Al Pete, bringing the magic of the show from the airwaves on WJCT News 89.9 to the stage—a vibrant mix of new and classic hip-hop, R&B, soul, funk, jazz, and more.

SEPTEMBER

12 | 7:30PM

WJCT STUDIOS

100 Festival Park Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32202

From whimsical animal adventures to biting political commen tary, from indie comics to autobiographical zines, these comic illustrators and cartoonists are capturing the way they view the world — one panel at a time.

The Neighborhood with Mr. Al Pete can be heard Saturdays at 8 p.m. on WJCT News 89.9.

COMEDY

SEPT. 3

Best of JAX Comedy Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

Improv Night with First Coast Comedy

Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine firstcoastcomedy.com

SEPT. 4-6

Marcus D. Wiley

Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

SEPT. 5

Adam Sandler

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevents.com

First Coast Comedy

The Main Event, 7 p.m.

The Blue Show (21+ only), 9:30 p.m. First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com

SEPT. 5

Comedy Night

Really Good Beer Stop–Nocatee eventbrite.com

Friday Night Live

Third Space Improv, St. Augustine 3rdspaceimprov.com

SEPT. 6

Lee Hardin

Murray Hill Theatre murrayhilltheatre.com

Comedy After Dark

Hurricane Grill & Wings–Neptune Beach eventbrite.com

First Coast Comedy

The Main Event, 7 p.m.

The Midnight Hour (21+ only), 11:45 p.m.

First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com

Comedy Carousel

Third Space Improv, St. Augustine 3rdspaceimprov.com

Don’t Tell Comedy

Somewhere in Springfield (even if we knew, we wouldn’t tell) donttellcomedy.com

SEPT. 7

Bedlam Comedy Showcase Bedlam bedlamlive.com

SEPT. 10

Improv Night with First Coast Comedy Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine firstcoastcomedy.com

SEPT. 11-13

Kountry Wayne Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

SEPT. 12

Knock Knockers Comedy-esque Showcase

The Emerald Vine Room instagram.com/theemeraldvineroom

The Main Event, 7 p.m.

Spotlight: A Showcase of Comedy Talent, 9:30 p.m.

First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com

Stand Up Community Comedy Night

Third Space Improv, St. Augustine 3rdspaceimprov.com

SEPT. 13

Eddie Griffin

Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

Jon Reep

Murray Hill Theatre murrayhilltheatre.com

Comedy & Chaos Rooftop Show Southbank Hotel eventbrite.com

Spill the Tea: Fresh-Brewed Comedy

Third Space Improv, St. Augustine 3rdspaceimprov.com

SEPT. 16

Kevin James Thornton

Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

SEPT. 17

Improv Night with First Coast Comedy

Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine firstcoastcomedy.com

SEPT. 19

Comedy @ No Bird No Bird jennweeks.com

Comedy Smackdown

Third Space Improv, St. Augustine 3rdspaceimprov.com

SEPT. 19-20

Luenell Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

SEPT. 20

First Coast Comedy

The Main Event, 7 p.m.

The Blue Show (21+ only), 9:30 p.m.

First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com

SEPT. 23

Jesse Peyton Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

SEPT. 24

Improv Night with First Coast Comedy Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine firstcoastcomedy.com

SEPT 25-27

Affion Crockett

Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

SEPT. 26

Nate Jackson Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

First Coast Comedy

The Main Event, 7 p.m.

The Blue Show (21+ only), 9:30 p.m.

First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com

SEPT. 27

Rooftop Hypnosis Comedy Show

Southbank Hotel eventbrite.com

Laughing Out Loud While Loving Our Locals: The LOL Jax Film Festival Returns

Local filmmaker Chad Hendrix called the LOL Film Festival “The Oscars of Duval.” And he wouldn’t be wrong.

The ninth edition of the two-day, sold-out event kicked off Aug. 2 at WJCT Studios, the outside of which looked like a scene out of a movie with “do not enter” signs, chain link fences as far as the eye could see and dead ends with no clear way to find the entrance to the building. Oh, and it was pouring rain. How’s that for a dramatic opening.

Once inside, guests were greeted by volunteers who were so friendly and welcoming, they made everybody feel famous. We were then invited to walk the red carpet for a photo before entering studio and finding our seats.

The vibe in the room was electric with hundreds of filmmakers — and film fans — geeked out to celebrate film, which is exactly the vibe event producer Monique Madrid was going for.

“[Filmmakers are] stuck behind their laptops editing, but they’re so focused on the grind, they don’t really get a chance to celebrate each other because once you make the film, it’s like, what’s next?” Madrid explained. “So for two days these filmmakers get to be with their peers and feel the love and support of watching their film in front of their peers.”

Like the Oscars, some guests look like they were dressed by a Hollywood stylist (OK, that might be a bit slight exaggeration. This is Jacksonville. I, however, was wearing shoes by designer Christian Siriano … for Payless, so there’s that.) Even the filmmakers were wearing their favorite tuxedos (i.e., jeans, a graphic t-shirt and a blazer). And like the Oscars, the event was also emceed by a comedian — Jenn Weeks — who, unlike the Oscars host Chris Rock, did not get slapped in the face on stage (I’m happy to report comics Antwan Murphy and J Paw also performed also weren’t slapped).

After enjoying some of the local food and drink offerings, we were entertained by Magic Radio, who performed “magically reimagined” covers (according to the event program). And unlike the Oscars, the band played entire songs, not just a couple of measures to end a chatty filmmaker’s acceptance speech.

Because of the number of films being screened, the event occurred over two evenings. To qualify for the festival, films had to be completed after January 2024 and run 10 minutes or less (plus up to one minute of credits).

And in keeping with the festival’s hyperlocal theme, the film had to involve someone from the Greater Jacksonville area or otherwise affiliated with Jacksonville. Oh, and they had to be funny. The resulting 26 shorts, selected by film organizers, spanned topics from a teen’s driving test to a man’s roach infestation to a news reporter’s obsession with a star athlete.

Speaking of the hyperlocal theme, did you know the “LOL” doesn’t only stand for “Laugh Out Loud” but also “Love Our Locals”?

“You know, as a kid I used to hear ‘Shop Local,’ but I didn’t care where I got my candy from,” Madrid said. “I didn’t realize the power of it as a kid, but I always remembered it, so when we were putting together the festival, we wanted to have local business representation.” A number of local businesses ranging from Jaguars attire (why do you think the festival’s primary color is teal?) to original artwork filled the gathering space while local food and drink vendors provided, well, the food and drink inside the studio.

As for the films, they were an excellent representation of the film industry in Jacksonville. “This year felt really special,” said Madrid, who started and produced the festival with her husband Adam a decade ago. “I’ve seen the work these filmmakers put into their films, and I’ve watched the film community grow,” she said. “They’re also being an inspiration to each other, so it’s not a competition in the sense of I’ve gotta one up my brother over here. And the thing is, people are really happy for the people who win, and not just the people who win, but the people who produce something that’s on the screen.”

Speaking of winners, the winning films were announced the second night of the event, which also included a Q&A session with filmmakers. Madrid and her team, too, should consider themselves winners for putting on such a thoughtful and thought-provoking event,

“A lot of the time, we turn on the news, and it’s so depressing and sad,” she said. “I was, like, we need to build some spaces where we can just forget all the crazy and just come together and be happy and celebrate.”

And if that isn’t a happy ending, I don’t know what is.

WINNERS

Best Choreography: “The Sleepover”

Best Cinematography: Jaron Wallace (“Eat, Prey, Love)

Best Costumes: “The Driving Test!”

Best Directing: Christian Alvarenga (“The Sleepover”)

Best Editing: TL Westgate (“Something is Rotten”)

Best Make-Up: Sara “Philly” DiPatri and Daran Hollie (T”he Grand Petarade”)

Best Musical Score: Luis Quiroz Galvez (“Night Heist”)

Best Sound: Charlie Burket (“Something is Rotten”)

Best Sound Design: Rich Pintello (“Kaiju”)

Best Special Effects: “The Driving Test!”

Best Writing: Drew Taylor (“The Driving Test!”)

Best Acting Ensemble: “Night Heist”

Best Supporting Actress: Heidi Aristov (“Eat, Prey, Love”)

Best Supporting Actor: David Girard (“Kaiju”)

Best Actress (tie):

Grace Bryan (“Breaking News—He’s Still Hot”)

Kate McManus (“Annual Appraisals”)

Best Actor: Tyler DiNinno (The Driving Test!)

Best Film: The Driving Test!

Audience Choice Film–Night One: “Kaiju”

Audience Choice Film–Night Two: “Eat, Prey, Love”

Swing, Soul and Sunshine: Amelia Island’s Jazz Festival Returns

Amelia Island is about to get loud in the best way possible. From Sept. 28 through Oct. 5, 2025, the Les DeMerle Amelia Island Jazz Festival returns for its 22nd year, delivering a full week of swing, Latin fire and headliner heat under the Fernandina Beach sky.

This year’s lineup is anchored by two heavyweights. On Oct. 3, Grammy-nominated vocalist Jane Monheit takes the stage, bringing her velvet-rich voice to the island. The following night, jazz giant Monty Alexander lights up the festival with his signature blend of American jazz and Jamaican rhythms. Both nights end with late-night jam sessions because jazz doesn’t do curfews.

But the party starts long before the headliners roll in. The festival opens Sept. 28, with a free community concert at the Atlantic Recreational Center featuring the UNF Jazz Ensemble. The week that follows moves like a jazz standard: improvisational but perfectly balanced. Wine and Jazz tastings at The Decantery, a jumpin’ swing night led by Les DeMerle’s Little Big Band, and a Latin Jazz concert and dance with Tony Cruz & His Latin Jazz Legends make up the mid-week groove.

By the time the N’awlins Jazz Brunch closes things out on Oct. 5, with the Spare Rib Six Dixieland Allstars and DeMerle himself behind the kit, festival-goers will have tasted nearly every flavor the genre has to offer — Dixieland, big band, bebop, blues and beyond.

The festival isn’t just about the music: It’s also about the mission. Founded by DeMerle and vocalist Bonnie Eisele, the event operates as a nonprofit, funding scholarships and bringing jazz into local schools and senior centers. It’s culture with purpose, built from the ground up and rooted in community.

So if you needed an excuse to hit Amelia Island this fall, here it is: world-class jazz, small-town charm, and an ocean breeze to carry the notes. That’s a beat worth catching. For more information, visit ameliaislandjazzfestival.com.

Words by Teresa Spencer

Photo by Gracious Adebayo on Unsplash

NEW MUSIC RELEASES

Made For You By Ambar Ramirez

BIG THIEF

“DOUBLE INFINITY”

The American indie folk band that first made waves in 2016 with their debut album “Masterpiece”—featuring the now-beloved track “Velvet Ring”—returns with their sixth studio release, “Double Infinity.” Their sound remains both nostalgic and powerful, carrying forward the spirit that first drew listeners in.

ED SHEERAN “PLAY”

We all know him and we all love him. With influences of folk and pop, the idiosyncratic singer Ed Sheeran borrows from any style and molds his own path that’s charming, personable and popular. His newest album, “Play,” can similarly go two ways, either we’ll need a tissue or dancing shoes. Probably both.

TWENTY ONE PILOTS “BREACH”

The Grammy Award-winning band has consistently shaped music and culture with their ever-evolving vision, all while staying true to their original sound and refusing to follow the status quo. Their upcoming release, “Breach,” is already anticipated to be legendary and from the Columbus, Ohio duo, we’d expect nothing less.

TY DOLLA $IGN “TYCOON”

Since the early 2010s, Ty Dolla $ign has built a steady catalog of hits with his sly, explicit and hedonistic spin on contemporary R&B. With his latest project, “TYCOON,” listeners can expect more tracks destined for the party playlist.

CARDI B

“AM I THE DRAMA?”

Cardi B stormed into the music industry bold, unapologetic and entirely herself, and her music has always reflected that same confident, charismatic energy. Raw, aggressive and larger than life, her upcoming album “AM I THE DRAMA?” promises nothing less than anthems built for pushing boundaries and shaking dance floors.

THE FAVORS “THE DREAM”

Longtime friends and collaborators FINNEAS and Ashe have officially joined forces under a new name: The Favors. With voices that intertwine so seamlessly, becoming a duo felt inevitable. Their debut studio album, “The Dream,” is a free-spirited project that channels the warmth and groove of the ’70s while infusing it with a fresh, modern edge.

Words by Carmen Macri

Still Rockin’ for St. Jude’s

On Sept. 6, the Boogerville Hideout in Green Cove Springs will host Still Rockin’ for St. Jude’s, a free, day-long concert that blends music, remembrance and philanthropy. While admission won’t cost a dime, donations collected throughout the day will support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The gathering is as much a tribute as it is a celebration. It honors veterans, particularly those of the Korean and Vietnam eras, with mayoral commendations and patriotic performances. It also serves as a final memorial for the late Jimmy Van Zant and a birthday celebration for “Aunt” Jane Van Zant, a longstanding figure within the Van Zant family.

Music will be the heartbeat of the event, with back-to-back sets from rising artists keeping the stage alive from early afternoon until midnight. Members of crews and families tied to legendary Southern rock groups — Lynyrd Skynyrd, Alabama, Allman Brothers, Molly Hatchet and others — will be in attendance, underscoring the day’s theme of legacy and connection.

The event also reunites the first responders who were dispatched to the 1977 plane crash in Gillsburg, Mississippi, which killed several members of Lynyrd Skynyrd and injured others. Their presence brings another layer of remembrance and recognition to the day.

Adding a contemporary note to the celebration, television personality and master distiller Johnny Griffis will introduce his new line, Southern Outlaw Spirits. Five hundred bottles, each signed by Griffis, Donnie Van Zant, and Jane Van Zant, will be released exclusively for the occasion.

What emerges is not just a concert, but a mosaic of Southern rock history, personal legacy, and community commitment. Still Rockin’ for St. Jude’s reminds attendees that music, memory and generosity can come together to create something lasting — something that carries forward the spirit of those who once stood at the heart of the sound.

CONCERTS

photo by Stayce Koegler

SEPT. 3

The Almas Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

SEPT. 4

Ordinary Boys: A Tribute to The Smiths & Morrisey Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

SEPT. 5

Jayke Orvis & the Bullsh*t Brothers Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

SEPT. 7

Kumo 99 Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

SEPT. 11

Bonnie X Clyde

DECCA LIVE deccalive.com

Bradeazy

DECCA LIVE deccalive.com

SEPT. 12

Sierra Ferrell

St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

FJ: A Tribute to Foreigner & Journey

Thrasher-Horne Center, Orange Park thcenter.org

Herd the Cat

Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

SEPT. 13

Lee Brice

St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

Will Downing

Ritz Theatre & Museum jaxevents.com

ATLiens

DECCA LIVE deccalive.com

SEPT. 14

Leon Bridges with special guest

Charley

Crockett

St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

Classic Albums Live Performs “Zeppelin II” Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

Buckethead

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com

SEPT. 15

John Mark McMillan and Citizens

Murray Hill Theatre murrayhilltheatre.com

The Frights

Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

SEPT. 16

Mark Winters

Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

SEPT. 17

An Evening With Chuck Leavell Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com

The Plot In You FIVE fivejax.com

Project Pat

DECCA LIVE deccalive.com

Socially Problematic Children

Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

SEPT. 18

The Mountain Goats

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com

Dexter and the Moonrocks DECCA LIVE deccalive.com

& NAKED EYES

THUNDER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

BRIAN CULBERTSON 4 STRANGELOVE: THE DEPECHE MODE

5 BLANK SPACE: THE UNOFFICIAL TAYLOR SWIFT TRIBUTE 6

CALIFORNIA: A SALUTE TO THE EAGLES

JOSH JOHNSON

WILSON JR.

VALLEY: SYMPHONY OF SEASONS

The Raging Nathans

Jack Rabbits

jaxlive.com

SEPT. 19

Video Games Live

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxsymphony.org

Maddox Batson

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com

De La Rose

DECCA LIVE deccalive.com

Austin Millz

DECCA LIVE deccalive.com

SEPT. 20

The Steely Dan Project Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

Guitar Quartet

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxsymphony.org

Kashmir: The Spirit of Led Zeppelin Live Thrasher-Horne Center, Orange Park thcenter.org

K Camp FIVE fivejax.com

Sam Llanes and Friends

Murray Hill Theatre murrayhilltheatre.com

SEPT. 23

“Weird Al” Yankovic St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

Soweto Gospel Choir Ritz Theatre & Museum jaxevents.com

SEPT. 24

That 1 Guy

Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

SEPT. 25

POP 2000 Tour

Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com

Parrotfish

Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

SEPT. 26

Alison Krauss & Union Station St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

Glenn Jones: Birthday Celebration White Party Ritz Theatre & Museum jaxevents.com

The Bouncing Souls FIVE fivejax.com

The Hails

Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

Jonathan & Abigail Peyton

Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com

SEPT. 26-27

Copland’s Clarinet Concerto

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxsymphony.org

SEPT. 27

Lake Street Dive

St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com

Madison Ryann Ward

DECCA LIVE deccalive.com

New Dilemma

Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com

Albert Castiglia

Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com

SEPT. 28

Poulenc Trio & Hanzhi Wang

St. Paul’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church beachesfinearts.org

Sugaray Rayford

Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com

SEPT. 28-OCT. 5

Les DeMerle Amelia Island Jazz Festival

Various locations, Fernandina Beach ameliaislandjazzfestival.com

SEPT. 29

Melissa Etheridge Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com

SEPT. 30

JJ Appleton & Jason Ricci Trio

Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com

CONVOLUTED AND CHAOTIC

The Caution Children

Words & photos by Ambar Ramirez

Somewhere between the ambient, histrionic shoegaze and the chaotic, extreme emo, lies the Caution Children — a band that’s as puzzling as they are powerful. For nearly two decades, they’ve been shaking up Jacksonville’s underground punk and DIY scene, leaving behind a trail of noise and catharsis.

A lot can happen over the course of two decades. Breaks, tours (national and international), fully realized albums and the inevitable lineup shifts. Today, The Caution Children stand as a six-piece: original members Nick Aflleje (vocals) and Ian Alcorn (lead guitar); longtime additions Tony Oriza, also of Jump Ramp (drums), Robert Caruso II (bass); Logan Rivera (guitar); and the newest recruit, guitarist number 3 Scott Carr.

The original group met back when they were in high school.

“There was kind of an improv emo violence band that was happening in one of our friend’s basement. And Ian was a part of that. And our original bassist and drummer were as well. And then we started listening to a lot of international music, like progressive yelling music, as we call it and, that was really inspiring. And Ian was like, I want to start to write some,” Aflleje recalled. “So then Ian approached me to become the vocalist, and I loved all that stuff too. We’d go to the same shows and stuff when they’d happen around here. And so that’s kind of what started it all.”

The Caution Children released their first album, “Vacation” back in 2008 but before then they frequented living room shows, basement shows and any bar that didn’t care about getting a noise complaint. In fact, most of the band’s early days consisted of booking shows not because they were necessarily popular but because they were hyper niche and specific. Aflleje joked that the only people who liked them back in the day were the bartenders and sound people. But despite the fact that they weren’t riding the mainstream music wave of the early 2000s, they were making music that was true to what inspired them. And almost 20 years later, they continue to do just that, and thanks to the internet their music is not only reaching, as Aflleje put it, the weirdos.

“We do have walls of sound elements because we like a lot of shoegaze bands overall, and we like to create, like, an overwhelming wall. But histrionic, we almost become, operatically emotional with what we try to write, whether with our chords, our performances, which can almost be ridiculously melodramatic, but we still want to push across that it’s genuine as well,” Aflleje explained. “So to have that strange juxtaposition, I think can be nice for some people. It’s the things that we liked when we grew up, so we would like to keep it going and pay it forward.”

The Caution Children are a band of contradictions. On one hand, they take immense pride in their craft; on the other, much of their sound comes together almost by accident — which, in their world, is exactly how it’s supposed to be. To really follow along, you can’t take things too seriously, but you still have to think deeply. That paradox is perfectly captured in their 2025 album “Appropriate Music,” named with a wink at what “appropriate” even means, and featuring the sprawling 10-minute single, “Why Won’t You Realize How Smart We Are?”

“My favorite song off the new album would probably be, ‘Why Won’t You Realize How Smart We Are?’ Overall it has things that are very much us and but it shows our growth as well. So, like, for instance, the name of that song sounds silly or even arrogant or pithy, but then when you go to the lyrics, you find out that they have their own language, and they’re saying if ignorance means bliss, what does smart mean and so they’re saying that we’re in trouble in this relationship, this isn’t going very well, where can we go from here?” Aflleje shared. “And I like that if you commit to this song, just, like, if you commit to this band, I hope or believe it will put you in a state that you feel more vulnerable but happy that you did it, as opposed to before when you’re like that’s silly or pithy or funny or arrogant or what have you.”

Like a puzzle, the band can feel confusing in pieces, but once everything connects, the full picture is both intricate and undeniable. Just as it is loud, ambiguous and radical.

“We’re a concept band real hard. Like, we always have a huge concept. ‘Unknown Lands’ was a concept album and we were really inspired by Ayers Rock and about singing the world into being, and so we were saying, we’re making our own little real estate, so we like to put our own spaces in it, and the people we wanted in it and the types of people and the places, and we were singing it all into being. And by the end of it, it’s all gone. But every time you listen to the record, you can go back,” Aflleje stated. “It’s silly, convoluted stuff we like. ‘Appropriate Music’ is our stab at trying to finally do what would be considered correct or appropriate music. But I think we messed up. But we still like what we wrote. It’s convoluted, probably to the point that we get meticulous, but we get very excited about it.”

Whether they’re your cup of tea or not doesn’t really matter to The Caution Children. They’ve never been in the business of making people comfortable. Instead, they thrive in the tension, twisting beauty out of chaos and challenging listeners to pay attention rather than look away. This fall, they’ll bring that restless energy to Fest in Gainesville, reminding everyone that after two decades, The Caution Children are still impossible to pin down — and that’s what makes them worth watching.

GET TO KNOW THE BAND

If the Caution Children had been born in a completely different decade, what era do you think your music would have thrived in?

Nick Aflleje: I think we would have to wait it out and get to about now to where people are nice to us. I think people are receiving us the best they have now. Like both people who get into the weeds about music, whatnot in theory, but also people who just enjoy music. Yeah, I think right now we have a really nice mix of a bunch of different people who are being very appreciative. And it’s nice to hear because you kind of feel like you’re just in a cave working on your stuff. And so when people show that appreciation, it’s very nice to know that you’re connected, because that’s kind of the point.

You’ve been together for years. What’s an inside joke that’s survived since the early days?

Scott Carr: *whispers something to Nick*

Aflleje: Wait what did you say?

Carr: *whispers to Nick again*

Affleje: Oh, no, no, because then people are going to try to trick us.

Carr: Oh, yeah.

Affleje: You shouldn’t say that one, that’s a weird superstition.

Folio: It could be off the record …(clearly my interest is peaked).

Affleje: You know what? We say that we like to be out of our comfort zone, and I should back that up. We shouldn’t just say it. So now people can use this against us and try to trick us. We believe, and we’re not all superstitious — this is every person who has filled in as we’ve had lots of different people who have helped us out and played in our band, and we consider them all still in our band. But they all, subscribe to this. One creed is that we can’t have when we’re on tour Jalapeño kettle cooked chips. Because every time we had them for a while, something very bad would happen to the van or our equipment or one of us would get injured.

If your instruments could talk, what do you think they’d complain about most after a show?

Carr: I think my guitars would be pretty happy because I think I’ve switched them three times. And every time I play something different, which is really fun.

Affleje: My mic stands would probably say a lot of expletive things because I had to start buying my own after a while. And it’s not that it was me. Just, if you go with whatever happens at a live show, things can get strange. And then stuff can happen. So the mic stands would say you’re a bad person. You’re not very good. You don’t treat me right. You need to treat me better.

Any last words?

Affleje: Yeah, you can see our members are of many different creeds and colors, but we’re a Jacksonville band and we want to make sure people know that. We’re from Jacksonville. We were influenced by Jacksonville. We liked this place even though some would argue it’s an acquired taste. But we acquired it. It is our taste. So we are, yeah, we’re a Jacksonville band. Oh, yeah, and we’re going to play the Fest.

Our Top 12 wines feature nothing but award winners and 5-star favorites. Enjoy them all plus two bonus California Cabs and a pair of Dartington Crystal stemless glasses—for only $69.99 (plus $19.99 shipping & tax) as your special introduction to the WSJ Wine Discovery Club.

Words by Carmen Macri

The Grande

It’s the same story every weekend in Atlantic Beach: if you’re looking for a drink before or after dinner, your options are slim. Pete’s Bar is the default — unless you feel like waiting in a packed line just to wedge yourself into Flying Iguana or Salumeria. The problem? In Atlantic Beach, dinner often marks the end of the night. Most restaurants shut down around 10 p.m., leaving anyone who isn’t ready to call it quits wondering where to go. And for the older crowd who want a night out without diving headfirst into Pete’s college-fueled chaos now that Ragtime has officially closed its doors, the options get even slimmer.

It’s a problem that stuck with Gerry Dabkowski and Andy Pitler. The two friends spent countless nights on Pitler’s front porch tossing around the same idea: what if there was a bar designed for their generation? Not another loud hangout, but a refined luxury cocktail lounge — something the Beaches had never really seen before.

After many years of pin-balling this idea back and forth, the two decided to bring it to life alongside Bill Scrogins and Tim Dabkowski.

And thus, The Grande was born.

The Grande takes luxury to a whole new level with its dark, sensual interior that is the perfect mix of Vegas nightlife while still paying homage to the Beaches. Step inside and the vibe shifts instantly — dark, sultry and inviting. The space is designed with everyone in mind: a hidden back room for those who want to enjoy a night out without being swallowed by the crowd, clusters of plush lounge couches perfect for groups, and intimate nooks with two-top tables made for date nights. A wall-to-wall bar stretches across the room, glowing under ambient lighting, while the bathrooms — decked out with intricate tilework and bold wallpaper — look like they were built with influencers in mind.

And while The Grande was dreamed up with the older crowd at heart, it doesn’t shut out the younger scene. It’s just as much a draw for 20- and 30-somethings who want a more elevated night out, one that doesn’t involve the usual beach-bar scene.

Tucked behind Coop 303 in the Grande Ocean luxury suites, The Grande is slated to open in early September, kicking things off with an invite-only soft opening on Sept. 6.

Folio’s Top Picks:

Arlington Catullo’s Italian facebook.com/catullositalian

Galaxy Burgers Bar & Grill galaxyburgersjax.com

Just Kitchen Jax justkitchenjax.com

Spices Caribbean Restaurant spicesjax.com

Tabouleh Mediterranean Cafe taboulehjax.com

Jax Beaches

Dockside Seafood Restaurant docksideseafoodrestaurant.com

Oaxaca Club theoaxacaclub.com

O-Ku

o-kusushi.com

RP’s Fine Food & Drink rpsjaxbeach.com

Sizmore’s Coastal Kitchen sizemorescoastalkitchen.com

Neptune/Atlantic Beach Arepa Please arepaplease.com

Coop 303 coop303.com

North Beach Fish Camp thenorthbeachfishcamp.com

Mamasamas mamasamas.com

Salumeria 104 salumeria104.com

The Local thelocaljax.com

Mayport Egg Boy eggboybreakfast.com

The Juicy Seafood Mayport thejuicycofl.com

La Casa Leon lacasaleonfl.com

Sub Cultured subculturedsubs.com

Downtown Bellwether bellwetherjax.com

Cowford Chophouse cowfordchophouse.com

Dorothy’s Downtown dorothysdowntown.com

Indochine Downtown indochinejax.com

Murray Hill Buchner’s Bierhalle buchnersbierhalle.com

Chancho King chanchoking.square.site

Community Loaves communityloavesjax.com

Solazo Taqueria solazofl.com

Northside & Airport Green Papaya greenpapayaus.com

Eleon Pizza & Pastry eleonpastry.com

Flying Fish Taphouse flyingfishtaphouse.com

New Berlin Fish House & Oyster Bar newberlinfishhouse.com

Mandarin Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant chwinery.com

Julington Creek Fish Camp julingtoncreekfishcamp.com

Enza’s Italian Restaurant enzas.net

Salento Colombian Steakhouse salentosteakhouse.com

Riverside and Avondale Bartaco bartaco.com

Carolina Jax carolinajax.com

Hawkers eathawkers.com

Josephine josephineavondale.com

Taqueria Cinco taqueria5points.com

San Marco The Bearded Pig thebeardedpigbbq.com

Taverna taverna.restaurant

Tepeyolot Cerveceria tepeys.com

Maple Street Biscuit Company maplestreetbiscuits.com

Springfield Crispy’s Springfield Gallery crispysspringfield.com

Othello othellospringfield.com

Tulua Bistro Springfield tuluabistro.com

1748 Bakehouse 1748bakehouse.com

Southside Purple Roots purplerootsjacksonville.com

Rustic 21 Bistro rustic21.com

RH Rooftop Restaurant rh.com/us/en/jacksonville/restaurant

Zen Dumpling zendumplings.com

Orange Park/Fleming Island/Middleburg Grumpy’s Restaurant grumpysrestaurantco.com

Kyodai Sushi Rock facebook.com /KyodaiSushiRock

Palermo Puerto Rican Kitchen palermopuertoricankitchen.com

The Toasted Yolk Cafe thetoastedyolk.com

Ponte Vedra/Vilano Anejo Cocina anejococinamexicana.com

Barbara Jean’s barbarajeansonthewater.com

Nona Blue Modern Tavern nonablue.com

Trasca & Co Eatery trascaandco.com

1912 Ocean Bar & Rooftop 1912oceanbarandrooftop.com

Vilano Beach

Aunt Kate’s aunt-kates.com

Cap’s On The Water capsonthewater.com

Pesca Vilano pescavilano.com

The Reef thereefstaugustine.com

Surfside Kitchen surfside.kitchen

Even when it’s still 90 degrees outside, Northeast Florida is already starting to taste like fall. Local cafes, bakeries, and breweries are rolling out seasonal specials, from pumpkin pastries to spiced beers, which gives locals the vibe of autumn without waiting for the cooler air to come around.

SIPS

01 Jacksonville Coffee Company

At Jacksonville Coffee Company, fall comes in the form of pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin pie cold foam cold brew, banana bread lattes and maple apple chai. Although banana bread lattes aren’t a new drink creation, they have recently gained popularity on TikTok, and more cafes are introducing their own versions. At Jacksonville Coffee Company, you can order it over ice or hot. The drink pairs banana and cinnamon flavors into one. The maple apple chai on the menu also adds a twist to the usual pumpkin lineup, blending spice and apple notes for a drink that takes you to the orchard.

*All images are credited to each business’s respective instagrams.

02

Ellianos Coffee

At Ellianos Coffee in Lake City, you can get these specialty drinks hot, iced or frozen, adding a spin on traditional coffee options. Its fall menu includes a pumpkin white mocha, pumpkin spiced latte and vanilla cold brew topped with pumpkin cold foam. The pumpkin white mocha is especially noteworthy, blending white chocolate with pumpkin spice for a creamier variation of the traditional PSL.

03

City Perks Coffee Company

At City Perks Coffee Company, the St. Augustine café is teasing the debut of its maple spice latte, a drink that layers maple, vanilla, fall spice, espresso and milk. Maple has been rising as a seasonal rival to pumpkin, offering a softer, woodsy sweetness that feels comforting without being overpowering. By combining maple with chai-like spices, City Perks is setting itself apart from the pumpkin-dominated menus, adding something distinctive to the Northeast Florida fall coffee scene.

BITES

04

Mixed Fillings Pie Shop

At Mixed Fillings Pie Shop, its creative pie flavors include maple chess pie, apple streusel pie and pumpkin latte pie. Each one plays on nostalgic autumn desserts while staying inventive. The pumpkin latte pie is especially fun, being a mashup of pumpkin pie and a favorite coffee drink, it’s perfect for PSL lovers looking for a pastry to pair with their drink.

05

Brittany’s Cupcake Shoppe

At Brittany’s Cupcake Shoppe in Lake City, fall-friendly flavors are on the menu yearround. Seasonal standouts include maple praline, salted caramel, apple pie and maple bacon cupcakes. Each of these balances sweet and rich flavors, while the maple bacon offers a sweet and savory twist.

POURS

07

Southern Swells Brewing Company

At Southern Swells Brewing Company, a rotating lineup usually avoids the expected pumpkin ale. Instead, it promotes creative releases that include seasonal flavors without going full PSL. Its annual “This is Not a Pumpkin Beer” has become a favorite for those who want something festive but different — without pumpkin.

08

Halpatter Brewing Company

At Halpatter Brewing Company in Lake City, brewers embrace classic flavors with their pumpkin ale, creating a traditional autumn pour that’s lightly spiced. Pumpkin ales can vary widely between overly sweet and subtle, but Halpatter’s is known locally as a balanced take.

06 Kookaburra

At Kookaburra (multiple locations, including the newly renovated Ponte Vedra Concert Hall), fall treats include dietary-conscious options. The pumpkin donut is both vegan and gluten-free, while its pumpkin muffin is vegan as well, making fall flavors more accessible. Some other highlights include the cinnamon scone and apple fritters for warm spice and orchard flavors.

09

Bog Brewing Company

At Bog Brewing Company in St. Augustine, unique flavor is on the menu with its Smoked Datil Ale, which incorporates the Oldest City’s iconic datil pepper into a smoked malt. This pour stands out by tying local flavor into the broader fall beer trend, giving St. Augustine a distinct signature.

THE UNDERBELLY REBRANDED?

The Albatross, formerly known as Underbelly, has been around since about 2013. Located Downtown, it’s one of Jacksonville’s most booked locally owned and operated music venues. And in November of 2024, this beloved venue had a rebrand. There were lots of questions as to why. Myself included. The official Albatross name change happened back in April 2025.

The new owners, Mike Ciero and Steve Blaisdell, thought it was time for a change, as they both have been involved in the local music scene for decades. The two were Underbelly’s previous booking agents before eventually buying and rebranding the Urban Core staple.

“It’s really as simple as us coming in as new owners. We wanted to recreate an identity for the spot that was more genuine to our personalities. Underbelly most certainly had some amazing times over the years, but it wouldn’t have been authentic for us moving forward to stick with the name and overall aesthetic that had been there prior,” Ciero shared. “Our intentions for The Albatross is to be a home away from home for people who want to feel welcome, feel safe and feel like there’s a comfortable place for them to be without judgment. A place where you could grab a cold drink, some great food and catch an awesome live show or event. We thrive on diversity and we’re going to do our best to let the venue continue to shine on that platform as long as the people of Duval allow us.”

As someone who attended many shows and events at Underbelly, this was just as exciting as it was scary. It felt that Underbelly had fallen victim to the “Urban Core Curse” — that another known and loved business was being forced out, leaving a new hole in the beating heart of the community. Another venue was lost for us to grieve. Luckily, Underbelly isn’t really going anywhere. It’s just got a facelift.

It was time for a complete revamp for Underbelly, and the name wasn’t the only thing they changed. At the Goth Night Rave — we got a clear sense of what’s evolved and what’s held steady. Albatross still carries the pulse of a local staple — uplifting both art and music scenes — but now it does so with a darker, edgier twist. It remains a community favorite, just reimagined through a new lens. They have been working their butts off to get the interior just right — adding an Ozzy Osborne mural and giving the inside that vampish vibe that fits the name change. Renovations are still underway, but each update brings them closer to fully capturing the vibe they’re aiming for.

It’s clear that the values the Albatross team carries guide their every decision. Anything they can do to pay tribute, they do.

“We are very locally owned and very locally operated,” Ciero said.

With the rebrand came a new menu, complete with cleverly named dishes inspired by Jacksonville’s retired music venues, like the Einstein A Go-Go, Club 5, Raindogs and Fuel. They serve lunch Tuesday through Saturday (sometimes Sunday), 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with seating available at the bar, indoor tables and an outdoor spot out front designed to draw more people out during the day.

The Albatross isn’t just aiming to be a local favorite— it’s also working to uplift other Jacksonville businesses through its rebrand. They’ve started collaborating with spots like Flamingo Coffee, Bold City Brewery and Green Room Brewing. Beyond music, the goal is to give Downtown a safe, welcoming spot to hang out. And according to Richard Kennedy, Albatross bar manager, no crowd embodies that spirit better than the one at their ‘Taylor Swift Inspired Dance Night.’ For all the local Swifties, the next big event is Sept. 12: The Era’s Party, complete with a live DJ, giveaways, costume contests, bracelet trading and themed cocktails.

They’ve got plenty lined up for the coming months—community markets with free entry, goth and emo nights, and even an Adam Sandler–themed event on his birthday (9/9). Two monthly markets are in the mix: Buy, Buy, Buy, My Darling: A Punk Rock Flea Market (every second Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.) and a rotating-theme night market (last Sunday of each month, 7 p.m.-midnight). This month’s theme? Cyberpunk. And while people often call to ask if you have to be goth to attend, the answer is always no—everyone’s welcome. Both markets are indoors and packed with vendors offering everything from vintage clothes (mine included) and handmade crafts to collectibles, tarot readings, retro video games, VHS tapes, DVDs and much more.

And with some incredible bands and artists already booked, like Black Flag and The Queers on their schedule, The Albatross is proving that a new name doesn’t mean it deserves any less of the spotlight — it’s just the next chapter in a venue that keeps giving the community something to look forward to.

NIGHTLIFE

ARLINGTON

Atlantis Lounge instagram.com/theatlantis_jax

Cliff’s Bar and Grill cliffsbarandgrill.com

Club Heaven clubheavenjax.com

BEACHES/PONTE VEDRA

Beach Bowl beachbowljax.com

Bedlam bedlamlive.com

Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com

The Brix Taphouse jacksonvillebeachbar.com

Casa Marina casamarinahotel.com

Culhane’s culhanesirishpub.com

Flask & Cannon facebook.com/flaskandcannon

Fly’s Tie Irish Pub facebook.com/flystieirishpub

Green Room Brewing greenroombrewing.com

Grey Matter Distillery greymatterdistillery.com Gusto gustojax.com

Hoptinger Bier Garden + Sausage House hoptinger.com

Ink Factory Brewing inkfactorybrewing.com

Island Girl Cigar Bar islandgirlcigarbar.com

Jax Beach Kava Bar kavajacksonville.com

Jekyll Brewing jekyllbrewing.com

Julep Palm Valley facebook.com/juleppalmvalley

Lemon Bar & Grille lemonbarjax.com

Living Room Lounge instagram.com/thelivingroomab

Lucky’s Bar instagram.com/luckysjaxbch

Lynch’s Irish Pub lynchsirishpub.com

Mango’s mangosjaxbeach.com

Mavi’s Waterfront Bar & Grill mavijax.com

Mayport Brewing Company maportbrewing.com

Mayport Garden Club mayportgardenclub.com

Monkey’s Uncle Tavern monkeysuncletavern.com

Palm Valley Outdoors Bar and Grill palmvalleyoutdoors.com

Penthouse Lounge at Casa Marina Hotel casamarinahotel.com

Refinery Jax Beach refineryjaxbeach.com

Reve Brewing revebrewing.com

The Ritz Lounge theritzlounge.com

Serenity Restaurant & Hookah Lounge serenityjaxbeach.com

Southern Swells Brewing Company southernswells.com

Surfer The Bar surferthebar.com

VooSwar Restaurant & Lounge instagram.com/vooswar

DOWNTOWN

The Albatross thealbatrossjax.com

The Bier Hall at Intuition Ale Works intuitionaleworks.com/bierhall

Bold City Brewery boldcitybrewery.com

The Circuit Arcade Bar instagram.com/thecircuitbarcade

De Real Ting Cafe facebook.com/derealtingcafe

Decca Live deccalive.com

Dos Gatos dosgatosjax.com

Element Bistro Bar & Lounge elementjax.com

Hardwicks hardwicksbarjax.com

Intuition Aleworks intuitionaleworks.com

Island Girl Cigar Bar islandgirlcigarbar.com

Justice Pub facebook.com/thejusticepub

Live Bar facebook.com/livebarclubjax

Manifest Distilling manifestdistilling.com

Myth Nightclub & Bar mythexperience.com

Ocean Street Tequila instagram.com/oceanstreettacosandtequila

Pour Taproom jaxpourtaproom.com

Ruby Beach Brewing rubybeachbrewing.com

SIP Cocktail bar sipontheroof.com

Spliff’s Gastropub spliffsgastropub.com

That Bar At The Arena facebook.com/ThatBarattheArena

The Volstead thevolsteadjax.com

Fleming Island Island Girl Cigar Bar islandgirlcigarbar.com/fleming-island

Mercury Moon facebook.com/mercury-moon

Mr. Chubby’s Wings mrchubbyswings.com

Sunset Tiki Bar the-sunset-tiki-bar.business.site

Whitey’s Fish Camp whiteysfishcamp.com

Intracoastal West 9 Zero Pour 9zeropour.com

Brew and Barrel Tavern bbtjax.com

MVP’s Sports Grille facebook.com/mvpssportsgrille

The Spot Hookah Lounge thespothookahloungejax.com

Time Out Sports Grill timeoutsportsgrill.com

MANDARIN/JULINGTON CREEK/ FRUIT COVE

2nd Bay Brewing 2ndbaybrewing.com

Comedy Zone comedyzone.com

Iggy’s Grill and Bar facebook.com/iggysgrill

Kava & Company kavaandcompany.com

Legacy Ale Works legacyaleworks.com

Monkey’s Uncle Tavern monkeysunclemandarin.com

Rack’em Up Sports Bar facebook.com/rackemupsportsbar

Time Out Sports Grill timeoutsportsgrill.com

MURRAY HILL

Axe Champs axechamps.com

Buchner’s Bierhalle buchnersbierhalle.com

The Boot Rack Saloon boot-rack-saloon.business.site

Fishweir Brewing Company fishweirbrewing.com

The Flamingo theflamingojax.com

Perfect Rack Billiards perfectrackbilliards.com

Silver Cow silvercowjax.com

Spruce sprucejax.com

The Walrus thewalrusjax.com

NORTHSIDE

Coppertop Bar and Restaurant coppertopbarandrestaurant.com

Four Fathers Distillery fourfathersdistillery.com

ORANGE PARK/MIDDLEBURG 57 Heaven facebook.com/57heavenop

Big Dawgs Sports Restaurant bigdawgsrestaurant.com

Cheers Park Avenue cheersparkave.com

The Daq Shack thedaqshack904.com

Dee’s Music Bar and Grill facebook.com/musicbarandgrill

The Fresh Spot Lounge thefreshspotlounge.com

LeaderBoard Arcade leaderboardarcade.com

Locals Pub localspub.co

Nakama Anime Bar nakamabar.com

Park Avenue Billiards parkavenuebilliards.com

Pinglehead Brewing Company pinglehead.com

Southern Social Whiskey Bar & Lounge southernsocialbar.com

RIVERSIDE/AVONDALE

Bartaco bartaco.com

Birdies facebook.com/birdiesfivepoints

Bold City Brewery boldcitybrewery.com

Brick Restaurant brickofavondale.com

Burlock & Barrel burlockandbarrel.com

Dart Bar & Games facebook.com/dartbarjax

Eclipse Bar & Nightclub facebook.com/eclipsebarjax

The Garage garagejax.com

The Green House thegreenhousebar.com

Hoptinger Bier Garden + Sausage House hoptinger.com

Incahoots incahootsnightclub.com

Kanine Social Taproom kaninesocial.com

Keg & Coin kegandcoinjax.com

Kingmaker Brewing kingmakerbrewing.com

Lemonstreet Brewing Company lemonstreetbrewing.com

The Loft loftjax.com

Mickie’s Irish Pub facebook.com/mickiesjax

Myrtle Avenue Brewing facebook.com/myrtleavebrewing

Park Place Lounge park-place-lounge.business.site

River & Post riverandpostjax.com

Riverside Liquors riversideliquors.biz

Rogue Bar facebook.com/rogue.bar.1

Root Down facebook.com/rootdownjax

Shores Liquor and Bar instagram.com/shoresliquoravondale

SAN MARCO/ST. NICHOLAS

1937 Spirits & Eatery 1937sanmarco.com

Aardwolf Brewing Company aardwolfbrewing.com

Bar Molino barmolino.com

Breezy Jazz House breezyjazzhouse.com

Cuba Libre Ultra Lounge cubalibrebar.com

Fore Score Golf Tavern forescoregolf.com

The Grape & Grain Exchange grapeandgrainexchange.com

Kava & Company kavaandcompany.com

The Mudville Grill themudvillegrill.com

The Players Grille playersgrille.com

Posting House posting.house Sherwoods sherwoodsbar.com

Sidecar instagram.com/sidecarjax

Voodoo Brewing instagram.com/voodoojax

SOUTHSIDE/ST. JOHNS TOWN CENTER

Austin Karaoke facebook.com/austinkaraoke

Bottlenose Brewing bottlenosebrewing.com

Cataluna Jax catalunajax.com

Culhane’s culhanesirishpub.com

Island Girl Cigar Bar islandgirlcigarbar.com

Jax Craft Beer jaxcraftbeer.com

Medusa Restaurant and Hookah Lounge facebook.com/medusa-loungejacksonville

Rio Restaurant and Lounge instagram.com/riorestauraunt.jax

Seven Bridges Grille & Brewery 7bridgesgrille.com

Sugar Factory instagram.com/sugarfactoryjacksonville

Trio Lounge triohookahlounge.com

Veterans United Craft Brewery vubrew.com

Wicked Barley Brewing Company wickedbarley.com

WXYZ Bar at Aloft Hotel aloftjacksonvilletapestrypark.com

SPRINGFIELD

Crispy’s Springfield Gallery crispysspringfieldgallery.com

The District thedistrictspr.com

Historically Hoppy Brewing Company historicallyhoppy.com

Shantytown Pub facebook.com/shantytownjax

Strings Sports Brewery stringssportsbrewery.com

Stumpy’s Hatchet House stumpyshh.com

Tulua Bistro instagram.com/tuluabistro

ST. AUGUSTINE

Ancient City Brewing ancientcitybrewing.com

Arnold’s Lounge arnoldslounge.com

Beacon Listening Room beaconstaug.com

Cellar Upstairs Bar at San Sebastian Winery sansebastianwinery.com

Dog Rose Brewing dogrosebrewing.com

Odd Birds Cocktail Lounge and Kitchen instagram.com/odd_birds

The Original Café Eleven originalcafe11.com

Prohibition Kitchen pkstaug.com

Shanghai Nobby’s nobbysfl.weebly.com

Tradewinds Lounge tradewindslounge.com

Westside Elevation Lounge elevationjax.com

Lillian’s lillianssportsgrill.com

The Phoenix Bar & Bowling facebook.com/thephoenixjax

photo by Jalen Hines (@photosbyjwh on IG)

Awesomus Prime Jacksonville Beach, FL - Springing the Blues Festival SC Clearly (@sage_c_photgraphy)