Jacksonville Magazine, June 2025

PLUS: REMEMBERING AMERICA'S ONLY NUDE CAR WASH LET'S EAT! CUBAN & FOODCARIBBEAN IN JAX CANCERSAVESSCREENING LIVES.PERIOD!

DOCTORS

ANNUAL COMPILATION OF THE CITY'S LEADING PHYSICIANS, AS NAMED BY THEIR PEERS

Publisher’s Note

I’ve been a baseball fan for as long as I can remember. I know it’s a slow game and the pace of play turns off many wouldbe fans. To me, that’s part of the allure. It’s kind of like soccer, where scoring is hard and, in my opinion, more exciting because of the anticipation over what may happen. Baseball is the same, a game that unfolds in brief moments instead an ongoing flow of activity. Scoring means more because a few points can win a game. The pauses during play have added benefits, too, especially at the ballpark. Between innings is an ideal time to get a hot dog and cold beer.

I can remember going to Wolfson Park to watch the Jacksonville Suns play years ago. Toward the end of its life, the old stadium, built in the early 1950s, was showing its age. The whole facility was rundown and practically crumbling. The bathrooms, in particular, were atrocious and fan amenities were scarce. It wasn’t much better for the players, with its dingy dugouts and clubhouses hidden under the stands. Bad as the facility was, the play on the field was always worth the price of admission and more than a few future Major League stars hit, ran and threw inside its grassy confines.

Wolfson gave way to a larger, more impressive stadium, which opened in 2003 as the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Now home to the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, the ballpark is a beauty, built to look like a classic with red brick walls, generous fan accommodations and natural turf on the field. And, even in an era when everything seems expensive, $10 can get you a spot on the grass berm out in left field. Thirty bucks buys a seat right

behind the home dugout, close enough to hear an umpire call balls and strikes.

Vendors still offer ballpark classics like hot dogs, popcorn and ice cream, but the options for food are as impressive as the setting. Like some fried shrimp? Yep, they can do that, though that seems like something only a visiting team's fan should order. How about some smoked barbecue? Sure, no problem. Tacos, made-to-order cheesesteak sandwiches, pizza, local craft beer, a cocktail at the tiki bar? It would take several games to sample all that’s good to eat. In addition, the Shrimp unveiled a host of new guest areas and amenities at the start of the season. Wolfson Park this is not.

So, as Northeast Florida rolls into summer, now is an ideal time to embrace a night at a minor league baseball game, visit one of the city’s many museums or soak in the sun, surf and sand at our beaches. We’re fortunate to live in a city and region with a wealth of entertainment venues, attractions and natural beauty. It’s all out there waiting. It would be a shame not to take advantage of what’s on offer, be it a community playhouse, outdoor farmers’ market, concert hall or biking trail. As they say in baseball, step up to the plate and take a swing. u

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

DIVORCE FOR WOMEN, BY WOMEN

Women’s Law

The team at Florida Women’s Law Group is committed to ensuring women are informed, prepared, and supported to assert their rights, whether it’s regarding nancial support or timesharing arrangements. Through over 40 years of combined legal experience, we’ve recognized common patterns where women, understandably a ected by fear and uncertainty, may sometimes hesitate to begin the process. Once they do take that rst step, there’s a natural inclination to seek a quick resolution, sometimes overlooking their own well-being in the process. Through a combination of empathetic support and robust legal advocacy, we guide our clients through the divorce and family law process, safeguarding their interests and future. Our commitment extends beyond legal representation, aiming to foster relationships and support women not only in winning their legal battles but also winning at life. Contact us at Florida Women’s Law Group today.

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On April 10, a crowd of more than 750 gathered at the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville for the opening celebrations for two new exhibitions. Among those in the crowd were 47 of the 64 artists (pictured here) selected for the juried exhibition Jax Contemporary: MOCA Jacksonville Arts Triennial, a show that celebrates the board vitality of artistic voices in the city at this moment in Jax history. The exhibition is on display on the museum’s third floor through November 9.

— Photo by Camille Garzon

CALLING ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS: Do you have an image of Northeast Florida you’d like to share with our readers? Submit your photo and the story behind it to mail@jacksonvillemag.com for the opportunity to be featured on this page.

SMALL TALK

Newsworthy Nuggets from Across Northeast Florida to Ponder on This Month

 Last year was a banner one for Florida tourism. In fact, according to state data, Florida welcomed a record 143 million visitors in 2024. The visitor numbers break down as follows—130.65 million domestic travelers, 8.94 million overseas guests, and 3.41 million Canadian tourists. So far this year, more than 41 million visitors arrived during the first quarter of 2025. Time will tell if chilly Canadian/American government relations impact the tourist numbers for the remainder of the year.

 Speaking of good economic news: For the third consecutive year, Florida makes headlines as one of the best states in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best States ranking. Florida took home the No. 6 spot in the annual rankings, leading in economy and ranking second in education, two categories that continue to drive growth and investment across the state. The ranking for economy was driven by Florida’s GDP growth rate being the highest in the nation (3.6%), and the second-highest job growth rate (1.4%), outpacing the national average of 1.2%.

 Founded in 1941, the Museum of Science & History will close its doors to the public on September 1 of this year. The closure is only temporary, as a completely new museum is being envisioned to take its place. To date, more than $95 million in public and private funding has been secured to build the new, 105,000-squarefoot cultural and educational resource, this one to be located across the St. Johns on waterfront property near the presently under construction Four Seasons hotel. Groundbreaking for the new museum is scheduled for 2026, with completion anticipated in 2028.

 Is Jax experiencing a sinking feeling? We are, sort of. Researchers at Columbia University recently announced that they have discovered that the 28 most populous cities in the U.S. are sinking. Jacksonville is among those that made the list. Ongoing groundwater extraction for drinking water is believed to be the most common cause of the sinking. Using satellite data to measure down to the millimeter, scientists determined that Houston is the fastest sinking city in the country,

with approximately one-half of its ground area retreating about one-fifth of an inch per year. By comparison, Jax is standing tall, reportedly sinking about 2 millimeters per year, even though coastal cities tend to be more prone to the phenomenon because of sea level rise.

 The Jaguars season schedule has been released and it features a Monday Night Football clash October 6 against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs (perhaps Taylor Swift will be in attendance?) and a Week 7 game versus the Los Angeles Rams at Wembley Stadium in London. The Jags will endure an especially tough stretch with four road games in five weeks following the Week 8 bye. The regular season opens September 7 at home versus the Carolina Panthers, followed by additional games at EverBank Field against the Houston Texans (Sept. 21), Seattle Seahawks (Oct. 12), Los Angeles Chargers (Nov. 16), Indianapolis Colts (Dec. 7) New York Jets (Dec. 14) and Tennessee Titans (date to be announced). Travis, Trayvon, Travis and Trevor… let’s see what you got. u

Square Roots

C

ommercial real estate development firm Gateway Jax recently broke ground on the second of several buildings that will make up its planned Pearl Square project. The new building, called 425 Beaver Street, is part of the larger mixed-use neighborhood covering nine blocks in the heart of Downtown and will contain 286 residential units and nearly 20,000 square feet of retail space. When completed, the Pearl Square development will feature more than 1,250 residences, a boutique hotel, public park space, a grocery store, restaurants and shops. “Jacksonville has been called the Bold New City of the South, and it is one of the most unique and special places in the country,” says Gateway Jax CEO Bryan Moll. “Downtown is the key to taking our city to the next level. It brings together history, culture, sports, entertainment, the waterfront—everything that makes our home so special.” Plans call for 425 Beaver Street to be finished in 2027, with additional buildings in the neighborhood slated to start construction later this year and into 2026. u

Rainbow Connection

It’s that time of year again when the call of a cold spring on a scorching hot day is more than any true Floridian can resist. Picture yourself (and a gaggle of your besties), floating, kayaking, or paddling down a picture-perfect pristine body of water. The Rainbow River, a true first-magnitude spring-fed “lazy river” is brimming with some 600 million gallons of crisp 72-degree water every day and provides all the sweet summertime feels. It’s no secret that Jax Maggie & Co. love a good “float” and it’s our opinion that the best way to experience this river is via a good ole inner tube. Jump in, sit back, relax, dip your toes in the water, and let the current take you away. Expect beautiful views of cypress-lined banks, kitschy river homes, majestic blue herons, otters, turtles, and maybe even a gator or two. When you get hot, jump into one of the beautiful blue

holes along the way. It’s the perfect way to spend a summer day.

Start your adventure at KP Hole Park in Dunnellon. Aim to arrive early as parking is limited and often fills to capacity on the weekends. The cost for a day on the river is $30 per person and includes your entry fee, tube rental, and return shuttle service. Kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards are also available at an hourly rate. Remember this is a lazy river, so if you are tubing plan to spend roughly four hours in the water. If you want a shorter float (an hour and a half) head down the road to the tubing entrance of Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon. Rentals and return tram service are also available at this site. Tubers must be at least 5 years old, according to park rules. For the perfect experience skip Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (Super crowded,

large groups, etc.) and opt for a weekday. You can thank me later.

After you tame the river head to the legendary good eats/watering hole known as Swampy’s . Trust me, there is no better place to refuel and chill after a day of fun in the sun. Located on the banks of the Rainbow River, Swampy’s offers a surprisingly delicious variety of Cajun fare, fish tacos, fried shrimp, gator bites, burgers, and icecold beer. Enjoy your food on the outdoor deck or at one of the picnic tables to take advantage of the fabulous waterfront view. I like to cheer on the tubers floating by. Once you see Swampy’ s you know that your ride is coming to an end.

The Rainbow River is about two-and-a-half hours' drive from Jacksonville, so you will want to get up early to start the fun. If you

Rainbow Springs State Park

want to spend more than a day exploring the river or you want to avoid an early wakeup call, check out Rainbow River Bungalows located minutes from the KP Hole. Not quite camping and not quite glamping, the Bungalows are actually 22 tiny homes that provide a quiet place to rest your head, share a meal, and relax. The property is pet-friendly and includes grills, fire pits, kayak and paddle board rentals and, best of all, your stay allows free access to the river.

This time of year, I always find myself craving a piece of the “old Florida” fun that I grew up with. You know where the fish are always jumping, and the living really is easy. If you’re like me and need a respite from the usual theme park madness and throngs of tourists, treat yourself to a Rainbow River adventure. It is truly a magical place. u

— Maggie

Look for more of Jax Maggie's travels in upcoming editions of Jacksonville Magazine.

A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT

There are few things more enjoying on a hot summer afternoon in Florida than a serene lazy river ride—both natural and man-made. Wind-Away River inside the Discovery Cove theme park in Orlando was recently named the Best Lazy River in the U.S. by USA Today’s readers’ choice awards. Not your standard resort pool, Wind-Away lives up to its name with a meandering path that streams through rainforests and past sandy beaches and cascading waterfalls. At one point, floaters are steered directly into the park’s Explorer’s Aviary, where hundreds of exotic birds fly freely overhead. If drifting along doesn’t provide enough excitement, Discovery Cove’s other attractions may float your boat. Swim with bottlenose dolphins in the Dolphin Lagoon, snorkel among tropical fish in the Grand Reef, mingle with otters and marmosets in Freshwater Oasis—there’s much to sea and do. u

Flagler Beach is something of a best-kept secret along Florida’s east coast. Tucked between St. Augustine and Daytona Beach, the area features a charming beach town atmosphere and miles of uncrowded Atlantic Ocean shoreline. Newly opened here is the Compass Hotel by Margaritaville, a 100-room, pet-friendly boutique inn designed to capture the sand-between-the-toes spirit of a Jimmy Buffett album. “This hotel is designed for travelers who want to unwind in a laid back, boutique setting while enjoying the natural beauty and relaxed energy of Flagler Beach,” says general manager Becky Darnell. Guests are treated to complimentary breakfast each morning, a welcome cabana with snacks, gym, private pool and, of course, a gift shop brimming with Margaritaville merch. Dining options include the poolside Salty Rim Bar & Grill and Chill Bar (Huli Huli Chicken, peel and eat shrimp, and the 5 O’Clock Burger, of course), a rooftop lounge where guests can sip signature cocktails (perhaps a boat drink?) by the fire-pit while soaking in ocean views. u

Rainbow River

Number$ Game

What’s been selling lately in northeast florida. And for how much.

e According to the Northeast Florida Association of Realtors, the median sales price for single-family homes in Northeast Florida’s six-county region increased nearly 3 percent since March, rising to $389,000. That’s good news for most sellers. However, as the heat of summer rolls in, the local market advantages might swing to buyers. Since March, the active inventory of single-family homes increased by 10 percent to more than 9,000 properties. This is a significant increase from the previous year, as the number of properties has grown by a whopping 24 percent since April 2024. “Buyers and sellers alike must remember that these shifts toward a balanced market are good overall and indicative of a healthy marketplace,” says NEFAR president Mario Gonzalez. In April, closed sales across the First Coast totaled 1,825 transactions, while pending sales were 1,437 and new listings totaled 3,106. In Jax proper, closed sales dropped 8.3 percent and pending sales were down by some 30 percent. "This increased inventory is a welcomed change for buyers who couldn’t buy a home in the extraordinarily competitive market just a few years ago,” says Gonzalez. u

All Washed Up

Getting down and dirty at what was once America’s only nude car wash

BY TIM GILMORE

The nude car wash was a protest, said Warren Colazzo, owner of Fantasy World, against the year-old law. In the fall of 1987, Jacksonville City Council, in a vote of 17 to zero, had banned topless dancing at clubs that served alcohol. So, Fantasy World went from topless to nude dancing at night and only sold liquor in the daytime. Colazzo, a fast-talking, charismatic bodybuilder with a mustache, dyed white hair and a tan like a basted turkey (pictured above) explained his “protest,” by saying. “It’s real simple. I see an opportunity to make a lot of money.”

The strangest fact about the saga of “America’s Only Nude Car Wash” might be the absence of female characters. While there are plenty of breasts and thighs and offenses taken, all the characters in the tale and what characters some of them are! are men. Women’s names rarely appeared in the news and their voices, with two exceptions, those of a judge and a driver, remain eerily silent.

The line of cars at the Fantasy World parking lot at 749 Cesery Boulevard on Saturday, September 10, 1988, formed fast and stretched 20 deep. Colazzo had thrown a tarp over the club’s driveway and front entrance, beneath which five women in bathrobes directed each car, then disrobed and dipped sponges into buckets of suds.

Two days before the car wash began, a Thursday night, police arrested club manager James “Mad Dog” Mercer and fined 20 Fantasy World dancers. The next day, Colazzo sought an emergency injunction to stop police activity and planned Saturday’s car wash. On Monday, U.S. District Judge John Moore denied the injunction and police made more arrests and Colazzo placed a misspelled personal message to Vice Detective Bobby Deal on the club marquee: “Bob Your No Big Deal.”

Colazzo tried again for an injunction, calling

police tactics a “campaign of economic terrorism” aimed at driving him out of business, and on September 23, Moore ruled the evidence “does not indicate the type of continuous and pervasive ‘pattern of harassment’ that would support the drastic remedy of injunction.” Police arrested Colazzo so frequently that sometimes he’d bail out and return to the club before police had left for the night.

Now Fantasy World planned “female car washes on Saturdays and male car washes on Sundays.” As a woman named Lisa Taylor drove under the tarp, she worried about getting arrested. When she drove out the other side, she told journalist Francis Donnelly, “It works. Our car is clean.”

By October, ban supporters worried it had backfired. Strip clubs had only gotten raunchier. Since clubs didn’t serve alcohol while dancers went nude, you only had to be 18 to

enter, not 21. Strip clubs operated on Sundays now and more male dancers performed than previously.

Then on November 6, while the Fantasy World marquee advertised, “Only Nude Car Wash in the Nation,” police shut it down, arresting 10 employees. Deal said, “It should have been closed down the first week,” but the state attorney’s office “had to research whether it was a violation” of laws regarding public nudity and disturbing the peace. Police were unable to find Colazzo, but charged manager “Mad Dog” Mercer, also a weightlifter, with resisting arrest, when he fought two detectives to the ground.

Newspapers everywhere had fun with headlines. The car wash had been “scrubbed,” had “gone down the drain.” Police had “put a damper” on it. “Illegal Buffing.” The Metronews of Birmingham, England said, “Raid Wipes Away Nude Car Wash.”

Three months later, in February, Colazzo showed up at a City Council meeting to say he was closing Fantasy World and reopening it as a “class-act high-tech disco” called Rumors. But the war wasn’t over. On May 16, one of Colazzo’s arrests from September came up for hearing before County Judge Sharon Tanner. For promoting a “live sex show,” Tanner sentenced Colazzo to six months in jail, six months probation, a $1,000 fine and 100 hours community service at a counseling center for sexually abused women.

Colazzo said “the things I did” were for “my girls” and “to fight this ordinance.” Tanner said Colazzo cared only “for the almighty dollar,” that he owed “every single woman in Duval County an apology” and argued a correlation between pornography and violence.

Four decades later, Colazzo, now co-owner of Thee Dollhouse in Tampa, says, “Let me tell you what really happened.” He says there was no sex show, that he was arrested because of an event he called “‘Jacksonville Vice’ Comedy Night.” He’d decorated “the main stage like a police station.” The phone would ring, the audience heard fake phone calls reporting crimes and the voices of officers saying they were too busy with Fantasy World to care.

“The place was packed with cops that night and they were pissed,” Colazzo recalls. He says police cut the wires to all cameras at the club, so no evidence would exist of what had really happened as they arrested him under false charges.” He maintains that he took good care of his female employ-

ees. “I helped these girls to not become drug addicts and prostitutes. I had people come in to help them with their taxes. I had plastic surgeons come in help them get boob jobs.”

He claims he never did community service, just spent 30 days in jail, then split for Arizona. But he hadn’t finished thumbing his nose at city officials. The June 1989 issue of Playgirl Magazine featured a Jacksonville model named Scott Lockwood as its centerfold; it also included a six-page spread of Colazzo. In

Walking A Round

Learning about Northeast Florida history isn’t reserved just for the interiors of museums, libraries or lecture halls. No, sometimes field work and research are required. When that “research” means visiting some of Fernandina Beach’s most popular downtown pubs, sign us up. Both Amelia Island Tasting Tours and the Amelia Island Museum of History host two-hour walking tours through the island’s historic district, taking guests to four bars and restaurants that showcase the town’s character. And there is a lot of charm to soak in. For example, the Palace Saloon is said to be Florida’s oldest bar operating in the same spot. The establishment's original mosaic tile floors, tin ceilings, 40-foot bar and hand-painted murals make this watering hole a true landmark, one that welcomed Industrial Age scions like the Rockefellers and Carnegies in the early 1900s. Tours include an adult libation at each stop visited, as well as tales about island life in decades past. Think of it as history with a kick. The museum holds tours ($45) the first and third Wednesday of each month, Tasting Tours offers its outings ($59) Thursday through Saturdays, provided a minimum number of participants have registered. Advance reservations are required and, of course, guests must be 21 years of age or older. u

some photos, he’s shirtless beside his yellow Ferrari. In others he lies poolside in a bikini and sunglasses. Then finally he’s full frontal.

The glaring irony of the story remains. It lacks women as full characters. The women seem but shadows. Silent. Finding women who worked at Fantasy World four decades later seems all but impossible. Newspapers never quoted them. This story about strippers who were mostly women is mostly a story about men.

Colazzo is 73 now. He’s been married for 24 years. In 2022, he was inducted into the Exotic Dancer Hall of Fame in Las Vegas. He wears an enormous square Hall of Fame ring that glitters all over with diamonds. When Mike Evans, wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers comes into his club in Tampa, says Colazzo, “He always says, ‘Your ring is bigger than my Super Bowl ring.’” In 2024, the Cane Corse Association of America named Colazzo’s dog Hank “Performance Dog of the Year.” u

REMEMBER WHEN?

The Museum of Science & History opened its final exhibition in its current location in late May.  MOSH Archives: The Story of Us… and You! explores the science and psychology behind collecting and venerating objects. The exhibition features hundreds of items from the museum’s archives, pulling from its history and honoring the organization’s evolution through its 80+ year history. Touted as part science, part history, and part time capsule, the collection presents a fascinating look at how the objects we save shape the stories we tell. Highlights include shells and fossils from archaeological sites, local memorabilia through the decades, including MOSH’s beloved Model T, and numerous examples of natural sciences, such as taxidermy, mammals, birds, reptiles and fish, minerals, rocks, gemstones and more. “MOSH’s history is tied to this region’s identity,” says museum CEO Dr. Al Dove. “This exhibition provides a peek into our past, and also invites us all to collectively do our part to shape the future, and it’s is timely, as we shift our attention from operating in our current home to the Museum’s future location on the Northbank.” The Story of Us is on display through August 31. u

Chew on This

What’s new and noteworthy in local Food and drink

 The new concert venue FIVE in Riverside staged its first shows in May. Renovations on the 1927 theatre, formerly SunRay Cinema, began in August of last year and among the improvements are the addition of a VIP loft in the old projection room, expanded balcony space, new bars and better restrooms. Acts playing this summer include Southern rockers Drivin N Cryin on June 28 and punk band Descendents on July 27.

 A round of applause for the Alhambra Theatre & Dining, recently named the #1 Dinner Theater in the U.S. in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. Entertaining audiences since 1967, the Alhambra is the country’s longest continuously running professional dinner theater. “This isn’t just a win for the Alhambra,” says managing partner Craig Smith. “It’s a win for Jacksonville and the entire Northeast Florida arts community.” Comedies, musicals and three-course meals… yes, please. • Smith has been busy at another local eatery he owns, the recently revitalized Dick’s Wings & Grill on Atlantic Boulevard. The reimagined restaurant underwent a complete interior

renovation featuring a more contemporary design. The menu was refreshed with elevated takes on diner favorites (fried shrimp baskets, French dip sandwiches) and bar service was upgraded with a large selection of bourbon and tequila.

 Jacksonville steak lovers were salivating in anticipation of the opening of 14 Prime, the city’s newest upscale steakhouse. Founded by the team behind V Pizza, the visually striking, two-story Gate Parkway eatery serves Booth Creek Wagyu beef and housemade pasta dishes prepared by executive chef Chad Shaner and crew. Main courses include grilled king salmon ($47) and cumincrusted lamb chops ($56), paired with sides such as lobster mac and cheese and roasted wild mushrooms. Hungrier appetites may favor the dry-aged, 32 oz. porterhouse for two ($160).

 San Marco has welcomed a number of new foodie destinations of late, among the newest being Boudreau Wine & Company, a boutique

wine shop that opened in late May along Hendricks Avenue. Owner Brandon Boudreau’s three wine clubs, $110-$60 per month, offer patrons specially selected bottles of reds and whites.  And speaking of new arrivals: Dorothy’s serves a Creole-inspired menu for dinner and brunch in the West Adams Street spot that formerly housed Burrito Gallery. Coming this summer and not far away on Main Street in Springfield is the new Juice Wine Bar, being brought to life by Billie Blevins and Jason Zoglman in the former Hyperion Brewing storefront.

 Not known for making changes to its proven formula, Cracker Barrel mixes things up this summer with the return of it Campfire Menu, last served seven years ago. The lineup includes the Campfire Shrimp Skillet ($12) with grilled shrimp, Andouille sausage and seasoned corn and potatoes presented in a sizzling cast iron skillet. For dessert, save room for the S’mores Brownie, a chocolate brownie topped with roasted marshmallow and a melting Hershey’s bar, all over crumbled graham crackers with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

 “Every cocktail I create is a celebration of flavor, culture and connection,” says mixologist Ajuana Bruno, a recent arrival to the crew at 1912 Ocean Bar & Rooftop, the beachside restaurant and lounge of the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort. A first-generation American with deep Caribbean roots, Bruno says she draws on her heritage to craft libations that delight and surprise. “I want each guest to leave with a sense of joy and taste of something truly special.” We’ll toast to that!

 Nothing says “let’s eat” like an artfully displayed charcuterie board. Diving into the cured meats, cheeses, fruits and veggies biz are friends and owners Diarmuid Graham and Dan Mariotti, who recently opened a Graze Crazebranded shop on Solano Road in Ponte Vedra Beach. Rachael Graham serves as the general manager. “From classic savory spreads to indulgent sweet selections, we have something for everyone,” says Mariotti. u

Alhambra Theatre & Dining

Graze Craze

14 Prime

Ajuana Bruno

Screen Pass

There are many different approaches for treating cancer, but only if you know you have it

Cancer mortality has declined in recent decades, dropping some 30 percent between 1991 and 2018, due in part to progress in screening technologies, research and general population awareness and increase in screening services. That amounts to approximately 3.2 million cancer deaths averted during that 30-year timeframe. That’s a remarkable number, for sure, and one that is owed to the continuing success of cancer screenings.

In short, cancer screenings reduce mortality from cancers found throughout the body, including the colon and rectum, breast, uterine cervix, prostate and lungs. Additionally, screening can prevent certain types of cancers, such as colorectal and cervical cancers, through the identification and removal of precancerous lesions. The earlier a cancer is found, the more favorable the effects

Life & Death

of treatment. Cancer screening helps saves lives, period

According to the American Cancer Society, cancer starts when something goes wrong in the normal process of cells growing and dividing to make new cells. A cell’s genes (pieces of DNA that tell the cell how to function) change and make the cell abnormal. Most cells die if they become abnormal, but some gene changes allow cells to survive, grow, and divide to make more abnormal cells. Gene changes that lead to cancer can have many possible causes. Lifestyle habits, genes you get from your parents, and being exposed to certain chemicals or radiation can all play a role. Many times, there is no clear cause.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the country experienced a significant decline in screenings. The drop was so precipitous that the

American Cancer Society launched an initiative to respond to the falling numbers. The goal was simple—to encourage individuals to continue seeking appropriate cancer testing and follow-up care even as the extreme adversities of the pandemic. It was no easy task one that is made more difficult due to myriad reasons. Among the reasons people don’t get a cancer screening are lack of insurance, procrastination, lack of symptoms and, very often the leading cause, fear.

Such fears are often based on emotional responses but can also stem from larger, systemic issues including fear of finding something, shame of not catching it earlier, anxiety about not being able to afford treatment, guilt that lifestyle choices made have been contributing factors and more. We know the barriers to screening are real but not insurmountable.

The incidences of death by drug overdose in the U.S. remain tragically high. However, according to a new report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of deaths nationwide in 2024 fell to their lowest levels in five years. The drop from 110,037 deaths in 2023 to 80,391 last year—a decrease of 27%—points to a positive trajectory. The decline marks the lowest level since 2019; deaths rose sharply during the pandemic between 2020 and 2022. In Florida, the numbers dropped significantly, to 5,175 in 2024, a 31% decline from the year prior. Dr. Mohamed Kabbaj, an FSU College of Medicine professor, views the CDC report on the decline of drug overdoses as positive but remains cautiously optimistic due to negative health trends in some states. “This is encouraging news, as any decrease in drug overdoses and lives saved is a positive step forward,” he says. “The nearly 50% reduction in opioid overdoses is particularly promising. However, as the report highlights, we are only returning to pre-opioid epidemic levels. While most states are seeing declines, some such as South Dakota and Nevada are still experiencing rising overdose rates, particularly involving fentanyl." u

After all, it’s okay to be concerned about medical procedures, possible findings, affording tests, or even seeing a doctor. But knowing the current state on one’s health can make it easier to take care of any issues and can potentially lengthen or save a life.

The good news is that most screenings are covered by insurance or are available at no cost. There may be costs for follow-up appointments and additional tests if they are needed, but most of the time tests results are normal and more testing isn't asked for.

And keep in mind, even if you have cancer-related screening tests, it’s still important to see a doctor if you have any new or worsening signs or symptoms. The signs and symptoms might mean cancer or another illness that needs to be treated.

Research reveals that one in three people will face cancer in their lifetime. Chances are that you or someone you know has been affected by it. Yet, many wait until they have symptoms to visit a doctor. For people without symptoms, screening tests can check certain parts of the body at regular intervals to detect any changes that may develop into cancer and can catch cancer early, when it may be easier to treat. You can get screened for common cancers like breast, colorectal, cervical, and lung through mammograms, colonoscopies or stool tests, Pap or Human papillomavirus (HPV) tests, and low-dose computerized tomography (CT) scans.

Cancer doesn’t wait. Neither should you. Fear can stop a person from getting screenings, but it won’t stop the disease. Early detection can save a life. Not doing so is actually something for which one should be fearful. u

GATOR AID

If an alligator bites you, chances are it was your fault. So says a study recently released by scientists at the University of Florida and Centre College in Kentucky. Researchers found that in 96% of recorded incidents, some form of human inattention or risk-taking preceded the attack. To reach their conclusions, the team analyzed nearly three centuries of records from 1734 to 2021 on human-alligator interactions using the database CrocAttack.org. Most bites occurred following moderate-risk behaviors such as swimming or wading in areas known to be inhabited by alligators. The highest proportion of fatal bites occurred after high-risk behaviors like deliberately entering alligator-inhabited waters. Mating season, which runs from April through June in Florida, brings more frequent movement and territorial behavior among the wild reptiles, making human awareness and safe practices even more essential. “The takeaway lesson from this study is that many bites can be prevented if humans are aware of their surroundings and minimize risky behaviors such as walking small pets need bodies of water or swimming where alligators are known to be present,” says UF professor Frank Mazzotti. We can't argue with that. u

BILL ME LATER

Actor, comedian, golf lover, and Caddy Shack restaurateur Bill Murray is known to take the music stage now and again. Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers does so in Jax this December 4 at the Florida Theatre, presenting a set of literary recitations and musical numbers.

Mark your calendars and pack your bags. BravoCon 2025 takes place November 14-16 in Las Vegas. Among the Bravo TV reality stars in attendance will be Jax’s own Captain Sandy Yawn of Below Deck fame.

MEET SCOTTIE SCHEFFLER. NOT THE PGA TOUR PRO, BUT THE K9S FOR WARRIOR SERVICE DOG NAMED FOR THE REIGNING PLAYERS CHAMPION. SOMEDAY HE’LL BE A TRUSTED COMPANION FOR A VETERAN IN NEED. WHO’S A GOOD BOY?!

SET YOUR PHASERS TO STUN! JAMES T. KIRK, A.K.A. WILLIAM SHATNER, TAKES THE STAGE TO SHARE STORIES FROM HIS CAREER, FOLLOWING A SCREENING OF STAR TREK II: WRATH OF KHAN, AUGUST 3, 6 PM, AT THE THRASHER-HORNE CENTER. PREMIUM VIP PASS, $228, INCLUDES A SIGNED POSTER AND PHOTO OP. LIVE LONG AND PROSPER, INDEED.

Believe it or not, Stephen Spielberg’s iconic film, JAWS, the original summer blockbuster, celebrated its 50th anniversary on June 20. Also, Shark Week on Discovery is July 20-27. Just something to think about during your next swim at Jax Beach.

Look for Jaguars first-round draft pick Travis Hunter to make his EverBank Field debut at the August 9 preseason game versus the Pittsburgh Steelers. Will he play both defense and offense? Wait and see. u

Summer Break

Even when school’s out, a certain amount of structure is necessary for parents and children

While your child—especially your teenager—may be thrilled that the school year has ended, anticipating lazy days and sleeping till noon, the joy of summer break isn’t always as joyful for parents. This can be particularly true for parents of a child with emotional or developmental issues who may be challenging in the best of times. While all kids do better with structure and routine, those with mental health issues including anxiety, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders are especially dependent on the predictable “safe zone” that school provides.

Without some degree of predictability, some kids are more prone to anxiety, oppositional behavior, and tantrums. For the parents who care for them, summer vacation can be anything but relaxing. However, there’s no need to dread the long, hot days of summer in Northeast Florida. Well, for reasons other than unavoidable heat of July and August. Keep your little ones on track to a fun and maybe even rewarding break from school.

Maintain your schedule. While you may never be able to duplicate the structure school provides, it helps to maintain the school year’s daily schedule, down to meal times and bedtime, as much as possible. It can be very tempting to let your kids stay up

late and sleep in—especially on weekends, when you want to do the same—but in the long run, sticking to the same schedule pays off by keeping your child more comfortable, and hence more cooperative.

Make it visual. Kids who thrive on predictability and are prone to panic over transitions—including those on the autism spectrum—benefit from posted schedules that outline what will happen throughout the day (for example: 7 AM wake up; 8 AM breakfast…) Depending on your child’s developmental level, simple pictures can also help.

Make plans. Try to schedule as many activities as possible, as early as possible, and keep your kids posted. This can mean anything from, “we’re going to Jax Beach on Tuesday at noon,” to having a set routine that every day, weather permitting, you’ll be going to the playground or pool. Even one such activity can give kids a center of gravity, so to speak, around which the rest of the day can be structured. So, plan an afternoon at Beach Bowl, the Jax Zoo or Cummer Museum.

Get outdoors. Home can become a safe cocoon, especially for children with sensory issues, who can feel assaulted by extra sights and sounds, or those who have

trouble with social interactions. But no child should spend hours in front of a screen. Even if a summer camp isn’t in the cards, try to find something your child enjoys, such as riding a bike or scooter, playing tag, or splashing at the community pool, water park, or beach— and do it. Plus, physical activity is good for everyone’s mind, body and spirit, especially kids with energy to burn.

Create a behavioral system. Children and teens, especially, may act like they want to be in charge, but the truth is they feel safer knowing exactly what you expect of them and the rewards that result from good behavior. This is never truer than during the seemingly boundary-free summer break. You should choose the two or three most desired positive behaviors to nurture with consistent and positive reinforcement, and try to ignore as many of the negative ones as possible. This teaches kids the definite rewards of desired behavior, and that acting out gets them nothing, not even negative attention. A chart with stickers for tasks accomplished can work wonders as positive reinforcement for preschool children. And remember: if you have limits, such as 30 minutes a day of earned computer time, you should stick to them. At least until school is back in session come August. u

Write Ahead

“Three years ago, Sidney Stone’s life changed forever. She had been a wife and mother one minute; the next, she was not. Now, in an effort to rebuild her life, she has set up shop as a private investigator. Sid reluctantly teams up with Leo Roberts, a teenager with the gift of communicating with the dead.” And so, begins the adventure, sleuthing and page-turning revelations in local author Stacey Horan’s novel, A Place for Good and Evil (Ghost Bridge Press, $15). The 300-page paperback is the first book in a series of mysteries set in the Oldest City, and it has been named a finalist for the annual Foreward INDIES Book of the Year Award in the Mystery genre. “This recognition is especially meaningful because A Place for Good and Evil is my debut adult mystery,” says Horan, who has penned an additional seven young adult novels. “It has been a joy to write books in this new series and to set them in such a unique place like St. Augustine.” Local readers will especially enjoy the mentions of landmarks such as St. George Street, Flagler College and other area sites. Winners in this year’s INDIES Awards will be announced in June. Good luck, Stacey. u

LIVING HISTORY

Looking for a family outing close to home? The settlement of Garcia de Santa Theresa de Mose, now referred to as  Fort Mose Historic State Park, was established in 1738 as the first legally sanctioned free Black settlement in North America. Fort Mose’s inhabitants were mainly slaves of West African origin who escaped from the British colonies of South Carolina and Georgia. Almost 250 years later, the site of the original fort, long lost to time and elements, was discovered during an archaeological dig by the Florida Museum of Natural History. Now after 30 years of research and construction, Fort Mose has once again become a tangible structure. A three-story, $3 million replica fort now stands near the original site north of downtown St. Augustine. “The fort is a tribute to the people who were brave enough to act and determined enough to travel on only hope that free territory was waiting for them,” says Charles Ellis, president of the Fort Mose Historical Society. On June 28, living historians representing free Black Fort Mose militia, Spanish militia and Native American allies will stage a mock battle against British and Scottish invaders at the Battle of Bloody Mose. Don’t worry, though there will be lots of musket fire, it’s all pretend. Admission to the park is $2 per person and it’s open Thursday through Monday, 9 AM-5 PM. Monthly events include militia muster reenactments on the first Saturday of each month. u

the to-do list

NORTHEAST FLORIDA’S ENTERTAINMENT & CULTURAL AGENDA

SPORT Jacksonville

Jumbo Shrimp

 Summertime is prime shrimp season at VyStar Ballpark. The AAA Jumbo Shrimp play 12 home games in July, including July 4-6, 8-13 and 29-31. Fireworks follow the Friday, July 4th game. The season rolls on in August with games August 1-3, 12-17 and 26-31. Most games start at 7 PM, $11-$150

ART

First Friday Art Walk

 The St. Augustine Art Association hosts its next First Friday Art Walk on July 4, 5-8

PM. In addition to visiting all of the participating downtown galleries, on special display this month is the Association’s Annual Honors Show and the St. Augustine Yacht Club Members Show, both held at the 22 Marine Street gallery.

EXHIBITION

Lenny Foster: The Magnolia Season

 Foster’s photographic study captures the ethereal beauty of the timeless bloom. Long celebrated as a quintessential symbol of the American South, magnolias embody nature at its most elegant. Despite its

abundance in the region, the magnolia is often overlooked as one of nature’s great masterpieces. At the Lightner Museum in St. Augustine through September 16.

ART Honoring Robert Rauschenberg

 Continuing the celebrations of its 100th birthday, MOCA Jax hosts a special exhibition of works by acclaimed American artist Robert Rauschenberg, whose creative vision led him to incorporate found objects ranging from taxidermized animals to newspaper clippings

and photographs into his work. His famous “Combines” would further blur the distinctions between painting and sculpture and his collaborative work with other great artists such as John Cage, Merce Cunningham, Jasper Johns, and Cy Twombly had a decisive influence on postwar art and the fields of dance, music, painting, and sculpture. On display through October 19 at MOCA Jacksonville.

MUSIC

Lil

Duval

 Can you give me a “Duuuuval!” please? You may when stand-up, actor and musician

Roland Powell, better known as Lil Duval, takes the stage in his hometown July 11, 8 PM, at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. He’s joined by Bossman Dlow, Plies, Da Baby and others, $83-$300

THEATER

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

 Young Charlie Bucket, a sweet boy from a very poor family, doesn’t have much. But when he finds the golden ticket and wins the opportunity to tour a fantastic chocolate factory and meet the mystifying owner, will all of his dreams come true? Maybe. Then again, maybe not. Through August 17 at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining, $71-$84

MUSIC

Tunes and Blooms

 The Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens hosts a new summer concert series offering guests the chance to explore the zoo in the evening hours (6-9 PM) while enjoying musical performances, special giveaways and access to select attractions. July 5 is “Island Acoustic” night with Chillakaya, Chuck Did and Souveineer; August 30 is “Southern Rock + Blues” featuring Side 3 Band and Bryce Allastair Band; and September 27 is “Latin Night” with Cumbe Soinco and Mandalla, $15-$20

FILM

Superman

 The Man of Steel must reconcile his alien Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as reporter Clark Kent. As

the embodiment of truth, justice and the human way, he soon finds himself in a world that views these as old-fashioned. Starring David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan and opening in theaters July 11.

MUSIC

The Band Be Easy

 The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens’ summer concert series rolls on with the Band Be Easy on Saturday, July 12, 5-9 PM. Beat the heat and boogie down in the riverfront gardens.

SPORT

Jacksonville Sharks

 It’s time to unleash your inner rocker and let the music take control as the Sharks face their conference rivals the San Antonio Gunslingers for Rock & Roll Night July 12, 7 PM, VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. More footballs fly for an additional Sharks home game July 26, 7 PM, $25-$111

Yonder Mountain String Band

 Yonder Mountain, a driving force in roots music for nearly three decades and a key player in the progressive jamgrass movement, kicked off a new chapter with their latest album, Nowhere Next. Featuring original songs inspired by lived experiences, people, and places that have shaped them, the album is a mix of bluegrass, indie rock, and country with soulful, funky grooves that call for a good time. See them live with Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country and Railroad Earth July 13, 5:30 PM, St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $54-$92

KIDS STUFF

Jurassic

Quest

 There’s no better place to make “pter-iffic” memories playing with adorable baby Dinos, excavating fossils, or even training a raptor while being surrounded by behemoths like sky-scraping Spinosaurus and, the King himself, Tyrannosaurus Rex. Jurassic Quest is the world’s largest Dino traveling show—kind of like the movies, but without all the eating of people, July 11-13 at the Prime Osborn Convention Center, $30-$109

MUSIC EXHIBITION

Knowing the West

 Knowing the West is a traveling exhibition that embraces and examines perceptions of the American frontier to be more inclusive, complex, and reflective of the diverse peoples who contributed to art and life in and about the West. The exhibition embraces preexisting impressions of the American West and presents a wide variety of artwork from diverse makers from the 19th to early 20th centuries to add richness to what is often a flattened and simplified view of the American West. On display through August 31 at the Cummer Museum of Art & Garden.

MUSIC

Gladys Knight

 The “Empress of Soul” and Grammy winner Gladys Knight returns to perform all her hits, including “Midnight Train to Georgia,” “If I Were Your Woman,” “I Heard It Through the

Continued on page 35

Lil Duval Knowing the West

Seen

More than a few in the crowd got jiggy with it at the Florida Theatre Ball: ‘90s Style, held inside the historic concert venue on May 17. The party raised more than $230,000 to support the non-profit theater’s mission of bringing arts and culture to Downtown Jax. Bringing the tunes all night were Quad City DJ’s, Bold City Classics, and the Wehner Jazz Trio. Chef’s Garden kept patrons well fed and, for those needing a bit more sustenance late into the night, Lazy Days Hot Dogs was ready with more delish eats. u

COMING SOON:

• The Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville hosts the 48th annual Arts Awards, a gala recognizing artistic excellence, celebrating the creative economy, and strengthening public/private arts partnerships, September 5 at the Florida Blue Conference Center.

• Play FORE JA and help young people discover what’s possible at the Junior Achievement North Florida Golf Classic September 29 at San Jose Country Club. Proceeds go toward inspiring First Coast students to invest in their future and pursue their dreams.

The United Way of Northeast Florida hosted the inaugural Champions of Change Awards in April. More than 120 guests attended the ceremony held to celebrate local philanthropic and volunteer service, recognizing both individuals and businesses for the dedication to creating positive change in the region. Among those honored this evening were Dominique Moore, Bettye Scott, CSX, Baptist Health and Haskell. Vic Micolucci served as emcee, a live painting was created by artists Myah Freeman and Michael McIntire and the drum line from Andrew Jackson High made a special appearance. u

Grapevine,” and many more July 15, 8 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $64-$139

FILM Flow

 MOCA Jacksonville continues its series of free movie nights with a screening of the animated feature Flow, the story of a courageous cat whose home is devastated by a great flood. Teaming up with a capybara, lemur, bird and a dog to navigate a boat in search of dry land, the ragtag band must rely on trust, courage and wits to survive, July 16, 6:30 PM.

MUSIC

Classic Albums Live: Lynyrd Skynyrd

 Free Bird! Classic Albums Live takes the greatest albums in history and recreates them live on stage, note for note, cut for cut. Tonight, they present “Lynyrd Skynyrd, Pronounced Lĕh-’nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd” in its entirety, followed by a set of favorite Skynyrd hits July 18, 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $54-$64

MUSIC

Dave Koz and Friends

 Joining Koz for his “Summer Horns” tour are Marcus Anderson, Jeff Bradshaw, Leo P, Evan Taylor, and Marcel Anderson. The high-octane, feel-good show features songs from each artist’s catalog plus material from 2013’s Dave Koz and Friends Summer Horns and 2018’s Summer Horns II From A to Z. The horns blow July 19, 8 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $60-$96

THEATER

Late Night Catechism

 Audience participation is expected in this solo comedy play about a fictional Catholic nun, written by Vicki Quade and Maripat Donovan. The show itself is a form of participatory theatre where members of the audience become students in the nun’s class July 20, 3 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $65-$80

MUSIC

Goo Goo Dolls

 Multi-platinum, four-time Grammy-nominated rock band Goo Goo Dolls take their lauded live show back on the road in 2025 with an extensive run of summer tour dates with Dashboard Confessional including a stop in the Oldest City July 23, 7 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $40-$130

THEATER

The Lion King, Jr.

 This family musical features classic songs from the Broadway smash and animated feature film, including “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King,” “He Lives in You,” and “Hakuna Matata.” Young performers will also get the chance to learn a wide range of new theatrical skills— such as mask-making and puppetry—encouraging them to explore this beloved story with creativity and pride, July 24 and 26, 3 PM, at The Ritz Theater and Museum

SPORT

JAGA Jacksonville

Amateur Championship

 About 100 of Northeast Florida’s top amateur golfers gather for the 64th annual tournament taking place July 24-26 at Timucuana Country Club. The tourney consists of 54 holes of individual stroke play, with a cut to half the field coming after 36 holes. Spectators welcome.

COMEDY

Duval Summertime

Comedy Jam

 A lengthy roster of comedians including Don DC Curry, Karlous Miller, Tony Roberts and Nod Ross take the stage for a night of laughs July 25, 8 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $55-$161

MUSIC

Shania Twain

 Canadian singer-songwriter Shania Twain has sold more than 100 million records, making her one of the best-selling artists of all time. Her 1995 album  The Woman in Me  brought a pop sensibility to country music, and her 1997 album  Come On Over  is the best-selling country album ever. So, she’s pretty good. See her two nights in Jax July 29 and 30, 7:30 PM, at Daily’s Place, $191-$669

SPOKEN WORD

Untold Stories

 Untold Stories is a live storytelling event where each performance features five local storytellers from all walks of life telling personal and transformative tales from their own lived experiences. The theme to this year’s final performance is “Root” and takes place July 31, 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $43-$53

MUSIC

Brad Paisley

 Paisley has earned his place in country music history as one of the genre’s most talented and decorated male solo artists. A member of the Grand Ole Opry since 2001, he has written 21 of his 25 No. 1 hits, and in 2008 became the first artist to achieve ten consecutive Billboard Country Airplay No. 1 singles. Paisley plays August 2, 7:30 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $60-$128

MUSIC

Sister Hazel

 Originating from Gainesville, Sister Hazel is comprised of five seasoned musicians whose well-spring of natural talent has been called “one of the Top 100 Most Influential Independent Performers of the last 15 years” by Performing Songwriter Magazine. Their song, “All for You,” topped the adult alternative charts during the summer of 1997 and the success propelled their album to platinum status. They play August 7, 7:30 PM, at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, $55-$78

FILM

Freakier Friday

 Twenty-two years after Tess and Anna endured an identity crisis, Anna now has a daughter and a soon-to-be stepdaughter. As they navigate the challenges that come when two families merge, Tess and Anna discover that lightning might strike twice. We think it does. Opening August 8 and starring Jamie Lee Curtis, Lindsay Lohan and Chad Michael Murray.

MUSIC

Riley Green

 Green’s “Damn Country Music Tour” rolls into the River City with Ella Langley and

some special guests August 8, 7 PM, VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $60-$326

THEATER

Emily Compagno Live

 FOX News personality Emily Compagno hosts a show of faith, hope, and inspiration as she shares untold stories from her New York Times best-selling book, Under His Wings, and more. Many viewers have gotten to know her from her TV appearancs, but there are things only Emily can tell. And only in-person on August 9, 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $49-$200

SPORT

Jacksonville Jaguars

 The Jags 2025 NFL campaign kicks off with one home preseason game versus the Pittsburgh Steelers Saturday, August 9, 7 PM, at EverBank Field, $38-$234. Will new Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers play? Two more away preseason games following, with the first home game of the year set for September 7, 1 PM, against the Carolina Panthers.

MUSIC

Postmodern Jukebox

 Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox is set to enchant

audiences this summer with their Magic and Moonlight Tour. Known for transforming modern hits into vintage masterpieces, the band swings into the River City August 13, 8 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $50=$210

DANCE

Taylor Swift Laser Party

 Calling all Swifties! The all-ages Reputation Laser Party is coming back to the Florida Theatre this summer. DJ Swiftie has traveled the world since 2022 performing for over 800,000 attendees bringing the love of Taylor Swift Music to all, and he’s teamed up with RIANE, a Nashville based artist, to re-create Taylor’s biggest album and bring it to Jax August 15, 7:30 PM, $45-$65

COMEDY

Nate Bargatze

 Stand-up superstar Bargatze’s comedy is both clean and relatable, evident in his 13 appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, the most appearances by any comedian. He also appeared on Conan four times and has a collection of Netflix comedy specials. See him live August 15, 7 PM, at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $59-$220

MUSIC

The Ultimate Elvis Concert

 Elvis has entered the building. Well, at least someone playing the part of The King will on the night of August 16, 7 PM, at the Thrasher-Horne Center. This touring tribute show transports audiences back to rock ’n’ roll’s golden era and features the 2023 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Champion Cote Deonath. With The Infinit-E Tribute Band,

Emily Compagno

Untold Stories

Taylor Swift Laser Party

Deonath captures Presley’s essence, bringing his legendary music and charisma to life, $36-$80

SPORT

Sporting Club Jacksonville

 The United Soccer League’s hometown expansion franchise opens its inaugural season, North Florida’s first-ever women’s professional sports team, with a home game versus the DC Power on August 23, 7 PM, at UNF’s Hodges Stadium. Sporting Jax will play a 28-match season from August the May 2026, divided into a fall and spring schedule, competing in the nine-team USL Super League, $10-$35

FESTIVAL

Jacksonville

Caribbean Carnival

 Can’t plan a trip to the Caribbean this year? No worries, the Caribbean is coming to Jax. Yah, Mon! Featuring elegant costumes, food, crafts and a full day’s worth of entertainment, the Jacksonville Caribbean Carnival takes place August 23, noon-9 PM, at 8202 Beach Blvd.

MUSIC

Bronwyn Keith-Hynes

 Grammy-winning fiddle virtuoso Bronwyn Keith-Hynes is stepping into the spotlight. After several years of wowing audiences as the fiddler for Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, the 2-time IBMA Fiddle Player of the Year is striking out on her own—fronting a band for the first time and bringing her voice to the forefront. She plays with special guests The Wandering Hours & Shay Morgan August 23, 7 PM, at Intuition Ale Works, $20

THEATER

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Forum

 Florida Theatre and Theatre

Jax present an “in concert” production of the Broadway musical A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, featuring Tony Award-winner Cady Huffman, a 26-piece symphony orchestra and a 30-member chorus. With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, and a book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart, A Funny Thing is a bawdy, wild comedy inspired

by the farces of the ancient Roman playwright Plautus, being staged August 23, 7:30 PM, and August 24, 2 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $53-$88

MUSIC

UB40

 With more than 50 UK Top 40 singles and 17 UK Top 10 albums, UB40 has been recording and touring since 1978. Originating as a group of young friends with working-class origins, to creating the world’s most successful reggae band. Yes, they will play “Red Red Wine.” August 23, 7:30 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $71-$133

THEATER Come From Away

 Set in the days following 9/11, Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded airline passengers who were welcomed by the small town of Gander, Newfoundland. Filled with powerful music, heartfelt storytelling, and uplifting moments, the Tony Award-winning musical has touched audiences worldwide. Staged August 28-October 5 at The Alhambra Theatre & Dining, $71-$84

THEATER

Paw Patrol Live

 Follow Chase, Marshall, Skye and the rest of the pack after they save Adventure City with their Mighty Pup Powers. But when supervillain scientist Victoria Vance feels left out of the festivities, she unleashes her latest invention to crash the party and steal the spotlight for herself! You may not find the story fascinating, but your young kids will August 30 (10 AM and 2 PM) and August 31, 11 AM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $48-$147 u

Heaven Sent

PHOTOS BY ANDREW VARNES

“White smoke.” These two words were repeated countless times as the world waited to see who would be elected the new pontiff and successor to the late Pope Francis to lead the Catholic Church. When the white smoke was spotted wafting over the Vatican, the sign that a new Pope had been chosen, more than a billion people worldwide wondered who it would be. They didn’t have to wait long. Chicago native Cardinal Robert Prevost, 69, was elected as the first U.S.-born pontiff and will be known as Pope Leo XIV. The church has deep roots in Northeast Florida, dating back 460 years. In Jacksonville, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception on Duval Street represents the city’s oldest Catholic congregation and stands as a local architectural treasure.

 Years before there was an actual Catholic church in Jacksonville, there was a burgeoning congregation. Priests would travel by horseback from Georgia to lead services in private residences, beginning in 1829 as a mission of the parish in Savannah. Services continued like this until 1847, when a small, wooden church was completed, later dedicated 1854 as the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception and named after Pope Pius IX.

 The wooden building lasted until 1864, when during the Civil War Union troops ransacked and then set the church ablaze, completely burning it to the ground. The same fate befell St. Michael Parish in Fernandina Beach. A second church was built and dedicated in 1871. That church lasted for 32 years, until it too burned to the ground. The Great Fire of Jacksonville consumed more than 2,300 buildings in the heart of the city, including the church. Reportedly, a large statue of the Virgin Mary survived the blaze.

 The rebuilding efforts that rose from the ashes of the Great Fire lured architects from across the country. Among them was M.H. Hubbard, who journeyed south from Utica, New York. In 1905, his designs for the new Church of the Immaculate Conception were complete and, two years later, the Halsema-Woodcock Company laid the foundation of the magnificent new structure. After construction was finished, the church was opened to the public on December 8, 1910. At a cost of $160,000, it was the tallest building in the city at the time.

 Built in the late Gothic Revival style, it is constructed primarily of Kentucky limestone and hailed as one of the finest examples of its kind in all of Florida. A cruciform floor plan forms the basis of its design, while pointed arches, tracery-adorned windows, buttresses and pinnacles, soaring spires and lofty interior vault come together to create a symphony of architectural elements that make the space feel timeless.

 Among the areas of architectural interest are the bell tower, choir loft and balcony, pipe organ, and stained-glass windows depicting scenes from the Bible. The windows were crafted in Munich, Germany. The steeple stretches nearly 180 feet high and is crowned by a gold-plated cross.

 The grand pipe organ dates back nearly 100 years, though it has been refurbished and updated several times through the decades. Today, it has approximately 450 “speaking pipes,” two of which are 32 feet long. The instrument is a hybrid model combining traditional wind-blown sound with digital augmentation.

 In 1979, it was one of only a few Catholic churches to be “solemnly dedicated,” meaning it cannot be purposely demolished or used for any reason other than a church. Because of the its historical, religious, and artistic importance, in 2013 Pope Francis dedicated it as one of only 77 Catholic Churches in the U.S. and only six in Florida with the title of minor basilica.

 The Catholic Church has had a presence in Northeast Florida since the late 1500s. The first parish church was built in St. Augustine in 1572. Official records began being kept in 1594 and include the first marriage on February 2 and a baptism recorded on June 25. They are believed to be the oldest surviving documents in North America, north of Mexico. u

HIGH TECH. LOW IMPACT.

PERSONALIZED SOLUTIONS FOR PROSTATE CANCER AND BPH

PROSTATE CANCER is the second most common cancer in men, and for generations, treatment has been all-or-nothing: remove the prostate or radiate it entirely. While these approaches have saved lives, they often come at the cost of urinary, sexual, and overall quality of life. “We’ve long known that the more prostate you preserve, the more function you preserve,” says Dr. Ali Kasraeian, a board-certified urologist whose passion for innovation began during his fellowship at the world-renowned Montsouris Institute in Paris. “The challenge has always been knowing where to draw the line— and how to do it safely.”

For almost two decades, Dr. Kasraeian has championed the use of High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) as a focal therapy for prostate cancer—having trained in the technique during his fellowship at the renowned Montsouris Institute in Paris. Kasraeian Urology is proud to offer HIFU—a precise, non-surgical, non-radiation treatment that uses focused sound waves to ablate only the cancerous tissue within the prostate, preserving surrounding structures and function.

In January 2025, Dr. Kasraeian proudly performed the first HIFU focal therapy procedure for prostate cancer in Jacksonville and the North Florida/South Georgia region—a milestone that followed years of clinical advocacy to expand access to this technology locally.

“This has been a journey of persistence and passion,” he reflects. “To finally offer this here, in our community where we live and work, is incredibly meaningful.”

“Focal therapy isn’t just an idea—it’s a philosophy,” he explains. “It’s about seeing the prostate not as something to remove, but something to preserve—when it’s safe and smart to do so.”

At Kasraeian Urology, MRI/Ultrasound Fusion–Guided Targeted Biopsy enables unparalleled precision in identifying where the cancer is— and where it isn’t. Their partnership with Avenda Health’s Unfold AI™, an artificial intelligence tool that maps the spatial extent of each patient’s cancer, allows Dr. Kasraeian to plan truly personalized therapies. “With the confidence these tools provide,” he adds, “we’re able to preserve

Where Innovation Meets Commitment

function without compromising cancer care or oncologic integrity.”

Long-term data now supports what pioneers in focal therapy have long believed: with proper patient selection, focal therapy offers oncologic outcomes comparable to whole-gland surgery or radiation—with significantly better preservation of urinary and sexual function.

“What drives us is giving patients in our community access to the most advanced, evidence-based therapies the moment they are proven safe, effective, appropriate, and truly meaningful. The right treatment, for the right person, at the right time. That’s why we’ve worked hard to bring innovative technologies to our community first, and delivering care that’s as personalized as it is precise.”

— Ali Kasraeian, MD, MHA, FACS

At Kasraeian Urology, innovation isn’t a buzzword—it’s a responsibility. As a father-son practice deeply rooted in the Jacksonville community, the Kasraeians believe patients deserve the best that modern medicine has to offer—delivered with warmth, integrity, and compassion.

Bringing world-class treatments like HIFU, Aquablation, and Unfold AI to North Florida wasn’t easy. It took years of advocacy, training, investment, and a relentless belief in doing what’s right for patients. But it’s that passion that continues to shape the care they deliver every day.

Whether you’re navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis or seeking relief from BPH, Kasraeian Urology offers not just expertise— but thoughtful, patient-centered care that puts quality of life first.

A New Era in BPH Care

While prostate cancer care is evolving, so is treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)—a noncancerous growth of the prostate that affects nearly half of men over 50. BPH can lead to frequent urination, weak flow, and even catheter dependence. For decades, treatment meant invasive surgery or medications with frustrating side effects.

At Kasraeian Urology, patients have access to Aquablation Therapy, a groundbreaking, heat-free robotic procedure that uses a high-velocity waterjet—guided by real-time ultrasound—to precisely remove obstructive prostate tissue. In 2018, Dr. Kasraeian was one of the first urologists in the U.S. to perform Aquablation outside of clinical trials. He remains one of the nation’s most experienced Aquablation surgeons.

“What makes Aquablation special is its precision,” he says. “We can customize exactly what to remove and what to preserve, which leads to excellent symptom relief with fewer side effects.”

In fact, approximately 50% of the practice’s Aquablation patients were catheter-dependent before treatment—most if not all are now living catheter-free.

For certain BPH cases—especially in men with favorable anatomy, focal prostate cancer, or elevated surgical risk—HIFU may also serve as a minimally invasive treatment option.

For more information on Aquablation therapy, visit Aquablation.com

First HIFU case in Jacksonville

TOP DOCTORS 2025

A comprehensive list of the region’s leading physicians, board-certified plastic surgeons, standout cosmetic dentists and other medical professionals who bind our wounds, heal our hearts and give us care.

Jacksonville boasts a historically significant medical community, a group of professionals that today follows in the footsteps of some true pioneers. In fact, the Duval County Medical Society (DCMS) was founded 170 years ago, more than 20 years before there was a Florida Medical Association—which also was established here in 1874. On May 25, 1853, a group of less than ten local doctors got together to create an organization dedicated to caring for the community as a whole, and not just individual patients. These noble physicians were frontline veterans of Northeast Florida medicine, enduring waves of smallpox, dengue fever, malaria and other diseases that had taken a toll on the region. Weary of the situation, they understood change was sorely needed.

Charter member Dr. H.D. Holland became

the city’s first physician mayor in 1852. Another founding member, Dr. Abel Baldwin, would become the first president of the Florida Medical Association. As forward-thinking and dedicated as those early members of the Society were, it’s doubtful any of them could have imagined how large and innovative Jacksonville’s medical community would become. Could they have ever envisioned the sheer scope of the Mayo Clinic in Florida campus near the Intracoastal Waterway? What would they think of helicopter air ambulances racing through the sky? How would they marvel at an MRI machine or proton radiation therapy or ceramic joint replacement components? Likely, it would be beyond science fiction to them.

Today, the DCMS counts more than 2,000 physicians as members. Northeast Florida benefits from their expertise, education

and compassion in countless ways. However, having such a large medical community can bring degrees of confusion among patients. After all, when there are so many choices, making a decision can be a challenge.

In an effort to help alleviate some of the angst experienced by Northeast Floridians seeking medical assistance, Jacksonville Magazine has partnered with national survey firm Top Doctors to compile a list of area physicians rated best by their peers. While the following pages are in no way a complete accounting of all the exemplary doctors practicing in our region, the list may be considered a good starting point, a handy reference for you to begin your next search for a medical professional in whom you would trust your friends, family and loved ones.

JACKSONVILLE MAGAZINE’S

TOP DOCTORS

ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY

Patrick J. DeMarco

Allergy & Asthma Specialists of North FL

Steve M. Dorman Jr. Family Allergy & Asthma Consultants

Sunil N. Joshi Family Allergy & Asthma Consultants

Hary T. Katz Family Allergy & Asthma Consultants

Thomas A. Lupoli

Allergy & Asthma Specialists of North Fl

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Sanjay Swami

First Coast Allergy & Asthma

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Raquel S. Watkins

Watkins Allergy & Asthma Clinic

Baptist Medical Center South HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

ANESTHESIOLOGY

Ryan M. Chadha Mayo Clinic

Neil G. Feinglass Mayo Clinic

Klaus D. Torp Mayo Clinic

CARDIAC ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY

Fred M. Kusumoto Mayo Clinic

Robert A. Luke

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

Anthony R. Magnano

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside, Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

Matthew S. McKillop

Baptist Heart Specialists

Baptist Medical Center South,

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Jay R. Patterson

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Clay County

CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE

Marcus J. Cox

Baptist Heart Specialists

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Omar F. Dajani

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Clay County

Thomas R. Flipse

Mayo Clinic

Ruple Galani

Baptist Heart Specialists

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Samer M. Garas

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

Ferris E. George Jr.

St. Augustine

Cardiology Associates

UF Health Flagler Hospital

Gary E. Lane

Mayo Clinic

Ragu Murthy

Well & You

UF Health Jacksonville

Amy W. Pollak

Mayo Clinic

Pamela Rama

Baptist Heart Specialists

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Russell B. Stapleton III

Baptist Heart Specialists

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

Gladys P. Velarde

UF Health Cardiovascular Center

UF Health Jacksonville

CHILD & ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY

Michael J. De La Hunt

Baptist Behavioral Health

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Barbara L. Gracious

HCA Florida Behavioral Health

Specialists – Orange Park

CHILD NEUROLOGY

Harry S. Abram

Nemours Children’s Health

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

COLON & RECTAL SURGERY

Ron G. Landmann

Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville,

Baptist Medical Center South

DERMATOLOGY

Robert G. Brown

Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery

Scott W. Fosko

UF Health Dermatology

UF Health Jacksonville

UF Health Shands Hospital

Josep Genebriera

Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery

Russell D. Metz Beaches Dermatology

George J. Schmieder

Park Avenue Dermatology

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

Jennifer Schoch

UF Health Dermatology

UF Health Shands Hospital

Elisha M. Singer Mayo Clinic

DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGY

Kathryn Pearson Boutique Breast Imaging

Jeffrey J. Peterson Mayo Clinic

Gaelyn E. Scuderi Ackerman Cancer Center

Baptist Medical Center Nassau

Justin T. Stowell Mayo Clinic

Richard D. White  Mayo Clinic

EMERGENCY MEDICINE

Travis A. Smith

Ryan Griffin MD Concierge Medicine

UF Health Flagler Hospital

Ascension St. Vincent’s St. Johns County

ENDOCRINOLOGY, DIABETES & METABOLISM

Alice Y. Chang

Mayo Clinic

Joe M. Chehade

UF Health Endocrinology

UF Health Jacksonville

Wasim E. Deeb

First Choice Endocrinology

Arpeta Gupta

Millennium Physician Group

Christian A. Koch

UF Health Endocrinology

UF Health Jacksonville

J. Sample Magee

NE FL Endocrine & Diabetes Associates

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY/ OTOLARYNGOLOGY

Roberto E. Garcia Contoura Facial Plastic Surgery

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Scott Trimas

Beaches Facial Plastic & Nasal Surgery Center

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Baptist Medical Center Nassau

FAMILY MEDICINE

Dana Barnes CAN Community Health

Patricia Calhoun

Baptist Primary Care

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Perry Carlos

Baptist Primary Care

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Boyd Evans, Jr.

Millennium Physician Group

Brian H. Grimard

Mayo Clinic

Charles Haddad

Millennium Physician Group

*LISTED BY AREA OF SPECIA LTY

Judella E. Haddad-Lacle

Millennium Physician Group

Christopher Scuderi

Millennium Physician Group

Michael B. Till

Baptist Primary Care

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Floyd B. Willis

Mayo Clinic

GASTROENTEROLOGY

Timothy J. Cavacini

Borland Groover

UF Health Flagler Hospital

Kenneth DeVault

Mayo Clinic

Linda A. Di Teodoro

Borland Groover

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Francis A. Farraye

Mayo Clinic

Daniel J. Gassert

Borland Groover

UF Health Flagler Hospital

Vikram D. Gopal

Borland Groover

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

Michael E. Herman

Borland Groover

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

Ali M. Lankarani

Borland Groover

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Dinesh Madhok

Borland Groover

HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

Michael F. Picco

Mayo Clinic

James S. Scolapio

UF Health Gastroenterology

UF Health Jacksonville

Stuart A. Soroka

Borland Groover

UF Health Flagler Hospital

Mihir S. Wagh

Mayo Clinic

Timothy A. Woodward

Mayo Clinic

GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY

Martin A. Martino

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

HAND SURGERY

Peter M. Murray

Mayo Clinic

INTERNAL MEDICINE

Louis Akra

Akra Professional Services

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Gerald Burford

Millennium Physician Group

Graciela Diez-Hoeck

Baptist Primary Care

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Linda R. Edwards

UF Health General Medicine

UF Health Jacksonville

Rajesh Gopal

Baptist Primary Care

Baptist Medical Center South

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Catherine C. Madaffari

Mayo Clinic

Barbara I. Rappaport

8833 Perimeter Park Blvd., #203, Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Elias Saikali

Millennium Physician Group

Alejandro I. Traveria

Baptist Primary Care

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY

Calvin Y. Choi

UF Health-North

UF Health Shands Hospital

John-Paul Pham

Pham Cardiovascular Center

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

Baptist Medical Center Southside

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Ruby Satpathy

Baptist Heart Specialists

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

MATERNAL & FETAL MEDICINE

Isaac Delke

UF Health Women’s Specialists

UF Health Jacksonville

COSMETIC DENTISTS

NFrancisco Gaudier

Regional Obstetric Consultants

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

Jill Mauldin

Regional Obstetric Consultants

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

MEDICAL ONCOLOGY

Jeffrey A. Bubis

Florida Cancer Specialists

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

Saranya Chumsri Mayo Clinic

Gerardo Colon-Otero Mayo Clinic

Roxana S. Dronca Mayo Clinic

James M. Foran Mayo Clinic

Leann Fox

Cancer Specialists of North Florida

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Troy H. Guthrie Jr.

UF Health Hematology & Oncology

UF Health Shands

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Dat C. Pham

Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

Walter Quan Jr.

UF Health Hematology & Oncology

UF Health Jacksonville

early 40 years ago, 60 dentists assembled to form an organization devoted to the art and science of cosmetic dentistry. From this gathering of individual practitioners, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) has matured into the world’s largest organization for cosmetic dental professionals. The AACD now includes more than 6,000 practitioners, educators, researchers and laboratory technicians from 70 countries worldwide. The organization is dedicated to advancing excellence in the art and science of cosmetic dentistry and encouraging the highest standards of ethical conduct and responsible patient care.

Approximately 20 AACD members practice in the Northeast Florida area, including:

Jason S. Olitsky, DMD, AAACD

Broc Flores, DMD

Susan Prater-Kudlats, DMD

Jose M. Martinez, DMD

John Bibbs, DDS

Megan Moshea, DDS

Blanca Martinez-Hoppe, DMD

James G. Trantham IV, DMD

Kevin L. Neal, DDS

Michael C. Winter, DDS

Eric S. Burgess, DMD

Richard A. Perallon, DMD

James William Bolton III, DDS

Jonathan Aalona Montoya, DDS

Neal Patel, DDS

MODERN MARVELS

Mayo Clinic recently opened its 228,000-squarefoot Duan Family Building at its Jacksonville campus. The building will house the first carbon ion therapy program in the Western Hemisphere, and advanced technology that can deliver both carbon ions and protons to treat the same tumor.

“Carbon ion therapy and other heavy particle therapies are the advanced radiation therapies of our future,” says Cheryl Willman, M.D., executive director, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center. “When battling our patients’ complex, currently radioresistant cancers at Mayo Clinic, we need the advantage of these next-gen radiation tools, which can be fine-tuned to target and treat aggressive tumors while minimizing the impact to surrounding tissue.”

While treatment with carbon ion therapy is expected to begin in 2028 and proton therapy in 2027, the opening of the facility marks a significant milestone. Beginning this summer, other cancer treatment options will be offered in the new building, including photon therapy, immunotherapy, chimeric antigen receptor-T cell therapy (CAR-T cell therapy) and more, along with sophisticated imaging technology.

Many patients with cancer require radiation therapy during treatment. The different forms of radiation therapy have varying biological impacts on cancer cells. For example, photon therapy, the most common form of radiation therapy, uses X-rays or gamma rays—packets of light energy called photons—to treat cancer. Beams are directed at the tumor, preventing the cancer cells from growing or dividing. Another option is proton beam therapy, which directs a precise dose of positively charged particles (protons) at cancer cells, destroying their genetic material while minimizing the impact on surrounding, healthy cells. This is especially beneficial for treating tumors near vital organs and cancer in children. While carbon ion therapy delivers positively charged particles (carbon ions) that release their energy upon hitting the targeted cancerous tumor. The particles destroy cancer cells with very little damage to surrounding tissue. ✚

MEDICAL ONCOLOGY CONT.

Ilicia Shugarman

Cancer Specialists of North Florida

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

NEONATAL-PERINATAL MEDICINE

Vasantha H. Kumar

UF Health Neonatology

UF Health Jacksonville

John W. Logan, III

UF Health Neonatology

UF Health Jacksonville

Laura Patton

UF Health Neonatology

UF Health Jacksonville

NEPHROLOGY

Ira Harmon

AccuCare of North Florida

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Ronald L. Mars

UF Health Nephrology

UF Health Shands

NEUROLOGICAL SURGERY

Richard W. Byrne Mayo Clinic

Hugh G. Deen Jr. Mayo Clinic

W. Christopher Fox Mayo Clinic

Michael B. Horowitz

HCA Florida First Coast Neurosurgery

HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

Eric Nottmeier Mayo Clinic

Alfredo Quinones-Hinojosa Mayo Clinic

NEUROLOGY

Robert Cavaliere

Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

David R. Chabolla

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

William P. Cheshire Jr. Mayo Clinic

Gregory S. Day Mayo Clinic

Dennis D. Dewey

Baptist Neurology Group

Baptist Medical Center Clay

Elliot L. Dimberg

Mayo Clinic

Michael Gebel

Baptist Neurology Group

Baptist Medical Center Nassau

Neill R. Graff-Radford Mayo Clinic

Daniel B. Groblewski

HCA Florida, Jacksonville

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

Bryan Riggeal

Baptist Neurology Group

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Devon I. Rubin

Mayo Clinic

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

Scott Silliman

UF Health Neurology

UF Health Jacksonville

UF Health Flagler Hospital

Joseph I. Sirven

Mayo Clinic

William O. Tatum Mayo Clinic

NUCLEAR MEDICINE

Akash Sharma Mayo Clinic

OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY

Tim Baird Women’s Care

Baptist Medical Center South

Anita H. Chen

Mayo Clinic

Andrew M. Kaunitz

UF Health Women’s Specialists

UF Health Jacksonville

Michelle A. Mclanahan

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

Rebekah Richmond

Beaches OBGYN

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Sayra C. Sievert

Sievert & Walsh Gynecology

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Mary E. Wechter

North Florida

Gynecology Specialists

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

D. Scott Wells

Women’s Care Florida

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

OPHTHALMOLOGY

Ron Adelman

Mayo Clinic

Shawn Agee

Southeastern Retina Specialists

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Michelle L. Diaz

Atlantic Eye Institute

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

Donald M. Downer

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

Charles V. Duss

Atlantic Eye Institute

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Dawn N. Duss

Pediatric Eye Consultants of North Florida

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Kathryn B. Freidl

Florida Eye Specialists

David W. Hayes

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

Abdallah M. Jeroudi

Florida Retina Institute

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Halifax Health Medical Center

Daytona Beach

William J. Knauer III

Levenson Eye Associates

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Lawrence M. Levine

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

Frank W. McDonald

Levenson Eye Associates

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Elizabeth K. McLeod

Levenson Eye Associates

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Tomas A. Moreno

Florida Retina Institute

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

William J. Oktavec

San Augustin Eye Foundation

Ravi R. Patel

Florida Eye Specialists

Russell A. Pecoraro

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

Megan N. Scott Carlton

Palm Valley Eye Care & Surgeons

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Clay County

Dante Sorrentino

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

Jonathan A. Staman

Florida Retina Institute

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Halifax Health Medical Center

Daytona Beach

John P. Sullivan

Southeastern Retina Specialists

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Benjamin J. Thomas

Florida Retina Institute

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Sushma K. Vance

Atlantic Eye Institute

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY

Kevin M. Kaplan

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Cedric J. Ortiguera

Mayo Clinic

Edward Young

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

OTOLARYNGOLOGY

William E. Bolger

UF Health Otolaryngology

UF Health Jacksonville

Joseph T. Breen

Mayo Clinic

Angela M. Donaldson

Mayo Clinic

Jeffrey R. Janus

Mayo Clinic

Osarenoma U. Olomu

Mayo Clinic

With over 30 years’ experience researching, reviewing, and selecting Top Doctors, Castle Connolly is a trusted and credible healthcare research and information company. Our mission is to help people find the best healthcare by connecting patients with best-in-class healthcare providers. Castle Connolly’s physician-led team of researchers follows a rigorous screening process to select top doctors on both the national and regional levels. Its online nomination process is open to all licensed physicians in America who are able to nominate physicians in any medical specialty and in any part of the country, as well as indicate whether the nominated physician(s) is, in their opinion, among the best in their region in their medical specialty or among the best in the nation in their medical specialty. Then, Castle Connolly’s research team thoroughly vets each physician’s professional qualifications, education, hospital and faculty appointments, research leadership, professional reputation, disciplinary history and if available, outcomes data. Additionally, a physician’s interpersonal skills such as listening and communicating effectively, demonstrating empathy, and instilling trust and confidence, are also considered in the review process. The Castle Connolly

Justin R. Moy

Baptist ENT Specialists

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Samip Patel

Mayo Clinic

Amy L. Rutt

Mayo Clinic

Robert Sprecher

Nemours Children’s Health

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

Arthur C. Taliaferro

North Florida Center for Otolaryngology

UF Health Flagler Hospital

PAIN MEDICINE

Veronica Antoine

Formoso Spine & Joint Pain Specialists

Michael C. Hanes

Jax Spine & Pain Centers

UF Health Flagler Hospital

UF Health Leesburg Hospital

Parveen Khanna

Pain Medicine Physicians of Jacksonville

PATHOLOGY

Colby A. Cantu

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Clay County

Ascension St. Vincent’s St. Johns County

Shahla Masood

UF Health Pathology

UF Health Jacksonville

Jalidsa Pellicier

Baptist Medical Center South

Thuy Penedo

Southeastern Pathology Associates

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Doctor Directory is the largest network of peer-nominated physicians in the nation.

In addition to Top Doctors, Castle Connolly’s research team also identifies Rising Stars, early career doctors who are emerging leaders in the medical community.

Physicians selected for inclusion in this magazine’s “Top Doctors” and “Rising Stars” feature may also appear online at www.castleconnolly.com, or in in conjunction with other Castle Connolly Top Doctors databases online and/or in print.

Castle Connolly is part of Everyday Health Group, a recognized leader in patient and provider education, attracting an engaged audience of over 82 million health consumers and over 900,000 U.S. practicing physicians and clinicians to its premier health and wellness digital properties. Our mission is to drive better clinical and health outcomes through decision-making informed by highly relevant information, data, and analytics. We empower healthcare providers and consumers with trusted content and services delivered through Everyday Health Group’s world-class brands.

For more information, please visit Castle Connolly.

PEDIATRIC ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY

Ejaz Yousef

Nemours Children’s Health

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY

Robert F. English Wolfson Children’s Hospital

PEDIATRIC CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE

Christopher L. Carroll Wolfson Children’s Hospital

PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE

Jennifer N. Fisher UF Health Jacksonville

PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY

Larry A. Fox

Nemours Children’s Health Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nelly Mauras Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

Monica M. Mortensen

Nemours Children’s Health Wolfson Children’s Hospital Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

PEDIATRIC GASTROENTEROLOGY

Salik Taufiq

Nemours Children’s Health Wolfson Children’s Hospital Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

PEDIATRIC HEMATOLOGY-ONCOLOGY

Manisha M. Bansal

Nemours Children’s Health

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Scott M. Bradfield

Nemours Children’s Health

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

Michael J. Joyce

Nemours Children’s Health

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

Eric Sandler

Nemours Children’s Health

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

PEDIATRIC INFECTIOUS DISEASE

Samir Midani

Nemours Children’s Health

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

PEDIATRIC ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY

Eric A. Loveless

Nemours Children’s Health

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

David M. Mandel

Nemours Children’s Health

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

Kevin M. Neal

Nemours Children’s Health

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

PEDIATRIC OTOLARYNGOLOGY

James B. Chafin

Nemours Children’s Health

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

Saswata Roy

ENT Specialists of North Florida

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Daniel L. Wohl

Pediatric Otolaryngology

Associates

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

PEDIATRIC PULMONOLOGY

David Schaeffer

Nemours Children’s Health

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

PEDIATRIC SURGERY

Robert W. Letton, Jr.

Nemours Children’s Health

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

PEDIATRIC UROLOGY

Michael J. Erhard

Nemours Children’s Health

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

PEDIATRICS

David O. Childers, Jr.

UF Health Developmental

Pediatrics

UF Health Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Thomas M. Hardin

Family Medical Centers

HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Alexandra M. Kostur

Jacksonville Kids Pediatrics

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Prasanthi Reddy

Rainbow Pediatric Center

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Hilleary C. Rockwell III

2360 Park Street, Jacksonville

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Wendy Sapolsky

Carithers Pediatric Group

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Dan R. Spearman

Orange Park Pediatrics

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Randolph Thornton

Jacksonville Pediatrics

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

James Waler

Baptist Primary Care

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

PHYSICAL MEDICINE & REHABILITATION

Thomas D. Rizzo, Jr.

Mayo Clinic

PLASTIC SURGERY

Patrick L. Basile

Patrick L. Basile, M.D.

Plastic Surgery & Wellness

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Christopher M. Bates

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery

Amy H. Brewster

Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery

Robert W. Burk III

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Ankit R. Desai

Florida Plastic Surgery Group

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

John D. Murray

UF Health Surgery

UF Health Jacksonville

Erez G. Sternberg

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery

William A. Wallace, Jr. Fleming Island Plastic Surgery

PSYCHIATRY

William M. Hunt III 3190 Post Street, Jacksonville

PULMONARY DISEASE

Remzi Bag Mayo Clinic

Charles D. Burger Mayo Clinic

Jennifer C. Fulton

Respiratory Care & Sleep Medicine

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

Margaret Johnson Mayo Clinic

FORWARD MOTION

In June, Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Chad Muma hosted the third annual football minicamp for kids living with type 1 diabetes (T1D). This free event gave local youth the chance to participate in NFL-inspired skills stations, encouraging them to stay active and confident in their bodies—part of a broader, personal mission to support kids with T1D through their nonprofit. Attendees had the opportunity to demo Chad’s Tandem insulin pump and ask about the tech he uses to perform his best. Diagnosed with T1D as a teenager, Muma never let his diagnosis define or limit him. Now, as an NFL athlete, he’s showing the next generation that T1D doesn’t have to stand in the way of big dreams. This camp was about more than football—it was a celebration of possibility, showing young people that having T1D doesn’t have to hold them back.

“When I was first diagnosed, I just didn’t know what was in store for me for the rest of my life, but I quickly learned that type 1 diabetes wasn’t going to hold me back from achieving what I wanted to achieve,” he says. “Of course, you have to manage it— but keep moving with it, moving forward, and learning how diabetes affects you every day. It’s something that our camp and foundation talk about—to not sit still with type 1 and to not let it be a limiting factor to not pursue your dreams and goals.”

Daniel Wyzan

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

RADIATION ONCOLOGY

Cynthia S. Anderson

Baptist MD Anderson

Cancer Center

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

Jamie A. Cesaretti

Terk Oncology

HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

Roi Dagan

UF Health Proton Therapy Institute

UF Health Jacksonville

Bradford S. Hoppe Mayo Clinic

Daniel J. Indelicato

UF Health Proton Therapy Institute

UF Health Jacksonville

Nancy P. Mendenhall

UF Health Proton Therapy Institute

UF Health Jacksonville

William M. Mendenhall

UF Health Proton Therapy Institute

UF Health Jacksonville

Romaine C. Nichols, Jr.

UF Health Proton Therapy Institute

UF Health Jacksonville

Mitchell D. Terk

Terk Oncology

HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

Laura A. Vallow

Mayo Clinic

REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGY/INFERTILITY

Christopher W. Lipari

Jacksonville Center for Reproductive Medicine

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

Kevin L. Winslow

FL Institute for

Reproductive Medicine

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

SPORTS MEDICINE

Michael Yorio

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

SURGERY

Thomas R. Austgen

North Florida Surgeons

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Ziad T. Awad

UF Health Surgery

UF Health Jacksonville

John D. Brinkman

North Florida Surgeons

Ascension St. Vincent’s Clay County Hospital

SURGICAL ONCOLOGY

Niraj J. Gusani

Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

THORACIC SURGERY

Joe B. Putnam, Jr.

Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

UROGYNECOLOGY/ FEMALE PELVIC MEDICINE & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

Jason R. Thompson Florida Urogynecology

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

UROLOGY

K.C. Balaji

UF Health Urology

UF Health Jacksonville

Gregory A. Broderick Mayo Clinic

Julio C. Gundian, Jr.

Mayo Clinic

Todd C. Igel

Mayo Clinic

Ali Kasraeian

Kasraeian Urology

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Raymond W. Pak Mayo Clinic

David D. Thiel

Mayo Clinic

VASCULAR & INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY

Joanna W. Kee-Sampson

UF Health Jacksonville

J. Mark Mckinney

Mayo Clinic

VASCULAR SURGERY

James W. Dennis

UF Health Vascular Surgery

UF Health Jacksonville ✚

BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEONS

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) is the largest plastic surgery specialty organization in the world. Founded in 1931, the Society represents more than 90% of all board-certified plastic surgeons in the U.S., making ASPS a global institution and leading authority on cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. The mission of ASPS is to advance quality care to plastic surgery patients by encouraging high standards of training, ethics, physician practice and research in plastic surgery. The organization is a strong advocate for patient safety and requires its members to operate in accredited surgical facilities that have passed rigorous external review of equipment and staffing. A search of the ASPS database reveals some 30 member surgeons practicing in the Jacksonville area. Their names follow:

Sofia Kirk, MD

Vaishali Doolabh, MD

Timothy Fee, MD

Michael Duffy, MD

David Csikai, MD

Joseph Parks, MD

Jay Granzow, MD

John Obi, MD

Ankit Desai, MD

Michael Fallucco, MD, FACS

Eric Weiss, MD

Antonio Forte, MD, PhD, MS

Sarvam TerKonda, MD

Amy Brewster, MD

Erez Sternberg, MD

Robert Burk, III, MD

Hollie Hickman, DO

Eric Weiss, MD

Patrick Basile, MD

Mark Clayman, MD

John Murray, MD

John Harris, MD

William Wallace, MD, FACS

Anh Vu, MD

Jordan Bilezikian, MD

Bowden Eye & Associates

FOCUSED ON YOU – YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EYE CARE TEAM

EXCELLENCE IN EYE CARE FOR OVER 30 YEARS

When it comes to protecting and preserving the precious gift of sight, Bowden Eye & Associates has long been a trusted name across the First Coast. From your first interaction with our friendly staff to your personalized treatment plan, you’ll experience a level of care, expertise, and commitment to innovation that sets us apart.

Founded by Frank W. Bowden, III, M.D., FACS, a former U.S. Naval battalion surgeon, Bowden Eye has grown to three convenient locations serving the Northside, Southside and St. Johns areas. For nearly three decades, we’ve earned our patients’ trust by providing the highest standard in primary and specialty eye care.

COMPREHENSIVE VISION CORRECTION & EYE HEALTH SERVICES

We offer a wide range of advanced treatment options, combining cuttingedge technology with compassionate care to deliver optimal outcomes for every patient.

VISION CORRECTION OPTIONS

• EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens): An advanced solution for patients seeking freedom from glasses or contacts.

• Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) with the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL): Allows patients to customize and fine-tune their visual outcome post-surgery – ideal for both RLE and Premium Cataract Surgery.

• LASIK is a type of laser eye surgery that reshapes the cornea for conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism

• PRK, a laser vision correction used to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism without a flap.

PREMIUM CATARACT SURGERY

Experience life-changing clarity with the latest lens technology and surgical techniques, customized to your lifestyle and visual goals. Gone are the days of thick cataract glasses after surgical removal of cataracts. TODAY is the time of clearer vision and what many call a “return to youthful vision” with the options available at Bowden Eye & Associates.

INTERVENTIONAL GLAUCOMA CARE

Our proactive approach minimizes the need for daily eye drops by utilizing innovative, minimally invasive procedures to halt disease progression early.

DRY EYE DISEASE MANAGEMENT

Bowden Eye is a national leader in Dry Eye Disease (DED) care. We provide comprehensive diagnostics and personalized treatment solutions to restore comfort and improve quality of life.

CORNEAL DISEASE & TRANSPLANT CENTER

Our team specializes in advanced care for keratoconus and other corneal conditions, offering treatments like:

• CTAK

• Crosslinking

• INTACS

• Partial and Full-Thickness Corneal Transplants

Our goal is always to preserve native tissue whenever possible, using the most current and effective solutions available.

PRIMARY & PEDIATRIC EYE CARE

We proudly care for patients of all ages and severity levels. From routine exams to managing complex ocular disease, our team of Optometrists delivers detailed evaluations and personalized education to empower your eye health decisions.

We also provide Myopia Control for children, helping to slow the progression of nearsightedness with evidence-based treatments that reduce long-term risks.

“Eye care is so much more than just yearly visitsand checking for glasses,” says Dr. Jerry Robben. “The modern world adds many stressors to our eyes—screens, dry environments,allergies—andourgoalistotreatnotjustsymptoms,butrootcauses.”

WHY CHOOSE BOWDEN EYE & ASSOCIATES?

• Decades of trusted care on the First Coast

• Industry-leading technology and treatments

• Nationally recognized experts and educators

• Comprehensive, compassionate care

• Five convenient locations

• Serving generations of families

From general ophthalmic care, custom cataract surgery, corneal transplants, dry eye treatment, glaucoma management, LASIK, and aesthetic services—we are your full-scope eye care destination.

Thara Abu-Mallouh, OD

Jerry Robben, OD

Frank W. Bowden, III, MD, FACS

Philip Griffith, OD

Florida Plastic Surgery Group

DELIVERING BEAUTIFUL, NATURAL RESULTS

4 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS

Florida Plastic Surgery Group (FPSG) provides personalized care in Northeast Florida with a clear mission: We are committed to excellence in patient care. We pride ourselves in treating each patient as family with the goal to improve patient’s quality of life. We provide the highest level of up-to-date and ethical care in the field of plastic surgery, both cosmetic and reconstructive. For our breast reconstructive patients, we aim to provide hope and closure during a difficult time in their life. For our cosmetic patients, we aim to improve confidence while delivering a natural rejuvenated appearance.

Drs Ankit Desai, Michael Fallucco, Joseph Parks, Michael Defazio and Jacob Rinkinen are all board-certified plastics surgeons who are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care, always remembering that a patient’s needs come first.

FPSG’s physicians have performed thousands of cosmetic procedures such as breast augmentation, breast lift, tummy tucks, body contouring after massive weight loss, labiaplasty, fat transfer and facial rejuvenation. We are proud to provide the latest techniques in facial aesthetics such as the “Deep Plane Face and Neck lift” to turn back the clock in a lasting way. We are leaders in breast reconstruction after a breast cancer diagnosis: having performed nearly 3000 DIEP flaps with advanced microsurgical techniques to use unwanted belly fat to reconstruct a breast in a “tummy tuck-like” restorative procedure, and thousands of breast implant reconstructions. FPSG is proud to have

helped established the only center of excellence in the world for the surgical treatment of lymphedema, or swelling in the arm after breast cancer treatment.

Whether it is trying to look your best or fix a complex reconstructive problem, the doctors at FPSG will partner with you to develop an individualized surgical plan to meet your needs based on our diverse skill.

Our staff also includes eight physician assistants (PA’s) specially trained in injectables such as Botox, fillers like Juvederm, laser treatments with HALO and BBL, microneedling, and personalized skin care regimens to fit your complexion type. The benefit of having PA’s understand the anatomy while in surgery allows them to transfer that knowledge to the office with these non-surgical procedures to provide patients with consistent quality results that are safe. We understand Jacksonville’s spread-out geography and therefore we provide multiple convenient locations across the area. Our reach extends beyond Northeast Florida and we have processes in place for out-of-town patients seeking our expertise.

We are honored at FPSG to help patients in their journey, both cosmetic and reconstructive and understand that surgery is only a small part of the process. We encourage patients to sit down and discuss options with our team as well as to do their due diligence in researching practices through patient experiences such as Google Reviews. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice family.

Danielle Reed

Addison Smith PA-C

Morgen Fletcher PA-C

Hannah Dickinson PA-C

Nicolette England PA-C

Shannon Adam PA-C

Morgan Gavlik PA-C

Mallory Nelson PA-C

Michael Fallucco, MD

Joseph Parks, MD

Michael DeFazio, MD

Jacob Rinkinen, MD

Ankit Desai, MD

Kasraeian Urology

COMPREHENSIVE UROLOGICAL CARE: SPECIALIZING IN ADVANCED DIAGNOSIS & MINIMALLY INVASIVE THERAPY

As a patient confronting the possibility of surgery you want to make sure that you are in the hands of a doctor whom you can trust and who can offer the crucial combination of experience, compassion and advanced technology. Patients receive that level of care at Kasraeian Urology, a practice comprised of a father-and-son team that treats patients like family. Dr. Ali Kasraeian, named among “America’s Top Surgeons” by the Consumers’ Research Council of America, completed his fellowship in advanced laparoscopic, robotic, and minimally invasive urological surgery at the world renowned Montsouris Institute in Paris, France. Together with his father, Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian, named among America’s top 7 percent of physicians, and honored as one of U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Doctors,” they provide comprehensive urological care specializing in minimally invasive surgery.

Dr. Ali Kasraeian is a board-certified urologist specializing in advanced minimally invasive, robotic, and ablative surgery for prostate, bladder, and kidney conditions. He is among the first in North Florida to offer cutting-edge, innovative focal therapies—including High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) and TULSA-PRO—as minimally invasive, non-surgical, and non-radiation treatment options for localized prostate cancer. In early 2025, he performed Jacksonville’s first HIFU procedure for prostate cancer, helping establish Kasraeian Urology—and the region—as a destination for state-of-the-art urologic care.

Kasraeian Urology was the first practice in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia to offer multiparametric MRI/ ultrasound fusion–targeted prostate biopsy, introducing the technology to the region over a decade ago. This advanced diagnostic technique allows for more precise (and accurate) diagnosis of lesions within the prostate that may be missed with standard biopsy techniques. Furthermore, Dr. Kasraeian uses multiparametric MRI/US Fusion Targeted Prostate Biopsy in consideration of focal therapy options, such as Focal HIFU and TULSA-PRO, where only the area within the prostate afflicted with cancer is treated leaving the normal tissue unaffected.

In 2018, Dr. Ali Kasraeian was proud to have been a part of the first U.S. cases (outside of clinical trials) using the Procept AQUABEAM Aquablation system to treat men with urinary symptoms related to an enlarged, obstructing prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The Procept AQUABEAM Aquablation system is the world’s first commercially available, minimally invasive surgical robot providing autonomous tissue removal to safely and effectively treat BPH. The treatment is an innovative combination of robotics, multi-dimensional real-time imaging, and a heat-free waterjet to precisely and accurately remove obstructive prostate tissue in men with BPH seeking therapy. Aquablation offers men with BPH predictable and reproducible outcomes independent of prostate anatomy or prostate size. Dr. Kasraeian is proud to have been one of the first urologists in the U.S. to introduce this innovative technology to men in our community.

Kasraeian Urology was also honored as a Urolift Center of Excellence in 2020. Additionally, Dr. Ali Kasraeian performed the first Optilume BPH in Florida in early 2024. Optilume BPH is a revolutionary minimally invasive therapy for the management of BPH.

Combined with Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian’s years of experience internationally, including more than 30 years serving the Jacksonville community, this father-and-son team work together to make sure that their patients are treated as they would want someone in their own family treated—with care, dignity, attention and respect. Both Drs. Ahmad Kasraeian and Ali Kasraeian, Castle Connolly Top Doctors, offer this depth of understanding in the personalized care of difficult urological conditions such as kidney, bladder and prostate cancer. They aim to provide their patients with the most advanced surgical technology operated with the highest level of expertise. People looking for a doctor whom they can trust to treat their urological problems with the highest level of knowledge, cutting-edge surgical technology and compassion need look no further than Kasraeian Urology right here in Jacksonville.

AHMAD KASRAEIAN, MD, FACS • ALI KASRAEIAN, MD, MHA, FACS

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

EMPOWERING MOVEMENT, RESTORING LIVES

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville is a dynamic orthopedic practice founded by a team of the most esteemed and highly respected surgeons in our region. With decades of combined expertise, cuttingedge techniques, and a shared commitment to advancing patient care, we are united in our mission to offer unparalleled orthopedic services.

We understand that each patient is unique, and our approach to treatment is personalized to ensure the best possible outcomes. Our team consists of board-certified, fellowship trained orthopedic surgeons and physiatrists with expertise across a wide range of specialties. Each physician brings a wealth of experience, having trained at top institutions and worked in leading healthcare settings across the country and in Jacksonville.

We combine the latest in medical technology with a compassionate, patient-centered approach to ensure that our patients receive the most effective and efficient care possible. From routine care to complex surgical interventions, our team’s diverse expertise guarantees that our patients receive the highest level of care, tailored to their unique needs.

Proudly serving communities throughout Florida, we are dedicated to restoring mobility, improving quality of life, and helping patients move forward with strength.

Orthopaedic Specialists of Jacksonville is also proud to provide Orthopedic Care to the Jacksonville Jaguars. www.osjax.com

14534 Old St. Augustine Road, Suite 3210 Medical Office Building 3, 2nd floor Jacksonville FL 32258 (904) 675-4000

DR. PHILLIP BELL

Hip and Knee Joint Replacement

Dr. Bell trained at Orthocarolina for Residency. He received specialized training in cutting edge joint replacement surgery and revision surgery at the Florida Orthopedic Institute in Tampa, FL.

5191 First Coast Technology Parkway 3rd Floor Jacksonville, FL 32224 (904) 675-4000

DR. HIRAM CARRASQUILLO

Foot and Ankle Surgery

Dr. Carrasquillo completed residency at the University of Puerto Rico and then worked under renowned foot and ankle specialist Dr. G. James Sam Marco in Cincinnati for Fellowship. Dr. Carrasquillo specializes in treating all injuries to the foot and ankle

DR. BRETT FRYKBERG Hip and Knee Joint Replacement

Dr. Frykberg completed residency at the University of Florida and completed a fellowship at the Hospital for Special Surgery considered the top hospital in regard to joint replacement. Dr. Frykberg uses cutting edge technology as part of his joint replacement practice.

DR. KEVIN KAPLAN Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine

Dr. Kaplan completed residency at NYU Langone Hospital and then completed a fellowship at the World Renowned Kerlan Jobe Orthopedic Clinic. Dr. Kaplan continues in his 13th season as the Head Team Physician for the Jacksonville Jaguars. He specializes in treatment of injuries in the shoulder, elbow, and knee.

DR. RICHARD PICERNO Joint Replacement

Dr. Picerno completed his training at the University of Florida. He specializes in joint replacement surgery and also general orthopedics. Dr. Picerno is integrally involved in leadership at Baptist Health.

DR. BRUCE STEINBERG Upper Extremity

Dr. Steinberg completed residency at Harvard and then completed a fellowship in upper extremity at the Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center. He served as a special consultant to the Jaguars for 25 years and specializes in injuries from the shoulder to the hand.

DR. BRANDON KAMBACH Spine Surgery

Dr. Kambach completed residency at Michigan State University and also a fellowship at Woodridge Spine Center with Dr. Thomas Lowe. He has been in practice since 2006 offering patients the highest level of care for spinal disorders.

DR. GARRY KITAY Upper Extremity

Dr. Kitay completed residency at the University of Pennsylvania and then a fellowship in upper extremity at the renowned Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center. Dr. Kitay serves as a consultant for hand injuries for the Jacksonville Jaguars and specializes in the treatment of injuries from the shoulder to the hand.

DR. GREGORY SOLIS Upper Extremity

Dr. Solis graduated from Robert Wood Johnson Medical school. He then completed his residency through the University of Florida and completed international fellowships in both adult knee reconstruction and foot and ankle surgery.

DR. ROBERT SAVARESE Physiatry and Pain Medicine

Dr. Savarese completed residency at the Kessler institute for rehabilitation and furthered his fellowship training at the Florida Spine Institute. Dr. Savarese uses state of the art non-surgical techniques to treat painful spine issues. He is the pain management special consultant to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Well&You: Vein & Vascular, Wound Care, & Outpatient Minimally-Invasive Surgery Center

NORTH JACKSONVILLE | ORANGE PARK | FLEMING ISLAND

Exceptional health care starts with exceptional physicians. Well&You extends a big congratulations to Top Doctor Dr. Ragu Murthy and Dr. Pankit Parikh as they lead the expert Well&You team in providing innovative, minimally invasive treatments that are transforming care across North Florida.

Well&You is a leading provider of innovative, patient-first care, via a chain of surgical centers and wound and vascular office based labs - designed to deliver non-surgical, minimally invasive, and outpatient treatments that are transforming how patients experience relief and healing.

Well&You’s core value is that better care starts with a better, more thoughtful approach. That’s why Well&You’s team of board-certified, fellowship-trained physicians specialize in procedures that don’t require narcotics, general anesthesia, or long hospital stays. They’re eliminating barriers to care by offering same-day procedures with short recovery times and treatments covered by insurance or available through easy self-pay options or payment plans.

The board-certified & fellowship-trained doctors specialize in:

• Varicose & Spider Veins

• DVTS

• Uterine Fibroids

• Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

• Enlarged Prostates

• Arterial Disease

• Heart Disease

• Neuropathy

• Back Pain

• Osteoarthritis Knee Pain

• Wound Care

• Dialysis Access

• Sacroiliac Joint Pain

• Strokes

"From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll notice a difference: a patient-centered environment where care is coordinated, communication is clear, and your healthy lifestyle goals are our top priority."

Well&You is led by Top Doctor, Dr. Ragu Murthy, a respected professional known for his forward-thinking approach and commitment to compassionate innovation. As a board-certified and fellowship-trained cardiologist, Dr. Murthy has helped pioneer some of the most effective non-surgical treatments available today, transforming lives without the risks of traditional surgery.

PHOTO CREDIT: DAVID MOORE

A Better Way to Care:

Accessible. Affordable. Exceptional. Whether you're dealing with vein disease, chronic knee pain, heart disease, or vascular complications, Well&You is here to help. The expert and experienced team makes it easy to get the care you need, with:

• Fast scheduling

• No hospital stay with quick recovery

• Transparent pricing and self-pay options

• Insurance-friendly billing

• A compassionate, coordinated care experience

The minimally invasive procedures are done in a calm, outpatient setting, no hospital stay needed. Most take under an hour, with patients often back to daily life in days. Using advanced diagnostics to find the root cause and create a personalized care plan, the providers keep you informed and confident every step of the way.

Well&You’s newest surgical center in North Florida is now open and accepting patients. To learn more or schedule your consultation, visit www.wellandyou.com.

DR. RAGU MURTHY, MD. FACC, ABVLM

Founding Cardiologist & Chief Medical Officer

Credentials: Certified Diplomata of the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine.

Specialities:

• Varicose Veins

• Deep Vein Thrombosis

• Spider Veins

• Cardiology

• Chest Pain

• Diabetic, Surgical & Vascular Wounds

• Dialysis Access via AV Fistula

• Strokes

• Heart Monitoring

• Coronary Artery Disease

DR. PANKIT PARIKH, MD, DABR

Minimally-Invasive Specialist

Credentials: Diplomate of the American Board of Radiology.

• Uterine Fibroids

• Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

• Plantar Fasciitis

• Enlarged Prostates

• Arterial Disease

• Hemorrhoids

• Dialysis Access via AV Fistula

• Osteoarthritis Knee Pain

Specialities: North Jacksonville I Orange Park I Fleming Island 904.895.5400 wellandyou.com

• Back Pain

• Joint & Hip Pain

• Sacroiliac Joint Pain

• Shoulder & Arm Pain

• Heel Pain

• Neuropathy

• Compression Fractures

• Interventional Oncology

Atlantic Eye Institute

BACK ROW: CHRISTEN M. RUSSELL, OD | CHARLES V. DUSS, MD | DANIELLE T. CALLEGARI, OD, FAAO KARIM J. SAMARA, MD | SUSHMA K. VANCE, MD | C. STEVEN LANCASTER, OD, FAAO

FRONT ROW: AUSTIN R. FELVER, OD | KELSEY M. MILESKI, OD, FAAO | SHEILA PABON, MD | MICHELLE L. DIAZ, MD

At Atlantic Eye Institute, excellence in eye care is not just a promise, but a proven reality. Established in 2000, the practice has grown to encompass a dedicated team of five board-certified ophthalmologists and five board-certified optometrists across four convenient locations in the Greater Jacksonville and St. Augustine areas, providing comprehensive eye care and emergency services around the clock.

At the heart of Atlantic Eye Institute’s ethos is a commitment to supporting each patient in their journey to personalized, affordable, and effective eye care solutions. Whether it’s exploring the cutting-edge possibilities of LASIK surgery with the Wavelight EX500 Laser System or navigating the nuanced decisions around cataract surgery with the advanced LenSx® Laser, patients can confidently step forward, knowing they’re supported by the latest in surgical technology paired with unmatched expertise.

In its unwavering commitment to innovation and superior patient outcomes, the practice has recently implemented the groundbreaking Light Adjustable Lens, the first and only FDA-approved lens that allows patients to fine-tune their vision post-cataract surgery. No matter the age or eye care need, patients can rest assured with Atlantic Eye Institute. The practice specializes in a wide array of services including premium cataract surgery, LASIK, cosmetic and reconstructive eyelid surgery, glaucoma treatments, retina

care, comprehensive eye care and more. The path to optimal vision has never been clearer.

Atlantic Eye Institute accepts most insurances and offers affordable financing options through Alphaeon Credit. Live your vision today by visiting: atlanticeyeinstitute.com.

JACKSONVILLE BEACH

3316 Third St. S., Suite 103, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

ATLANTIC BLVD. 13457 Atlantic Blvd., Suite 5, Jacksonville, FL 32225

BENNETT RD. 6207 Bennett Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32216

ST. JOHNS 105 Nature Walk Pkwy., Suite 105, St. Augustine, FL 32092

(904) 241-7865 • AtlanticEyeInstitute.com

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

PROVIDING EXCEPTIONAL PATIENT CARE TO NORTH FLORIDA SINCE 1977

For more than 40 years, Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons has delivered exceptional eye care to patients throughout North Florida. This longstanding reputation reflects the expertise of its physicians and their unwavering dedication to compassionate and personalized patient care.

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons takes a collaborative, team-based approach to create the most effective treatment plans for each patient. Every board-certified ophthalmologist has completed advanced fellowship subspecialty training, enabling them to offer comprehensive eye care. Their extensive experience, surgical precision, and use of cutting-edge techniques are what truly distinguish them.

With 17 providers and a highly qualified clinical and administrative team, Clay Eye is one of the largest comprehensive eye care practices in North Florida.

They offer comprehensive eye care services at five locations throughout North Florida, including Orange Park, Fleming Island, Mandarin, Riverside, and Middleburg.

Understanding the importance of convenience for patients and their families, Clay Eye offers same day appointments at each of their five offices. In addition, they offer a state-of-the-art, 7,000-square-foot Surgery Center which adjoins their Fleming Island location. This facility provides patients with a seamless and elevated experience from start to finish.

AREAS OF EXPERTISE/SERVICE INCLUDE:

• Laser Cataract Surgery

• Glaucoma Surgery

• Medical/Surgical Retina

• Macular Degeneration

• Diabetic Eye Disease

ORANGE PARK

2023 Professional Center Drive Orange Park, FL 32073

FLEMING ISLAND

1855 E. West Parkway Fleming Island, FL 32003

MANDARIN

11790 San Jose Boulevard Jacksonville, FL 32223

www.clayeye.com • 904-272-2020

• Cornea Surgery

• LASIK Surgery

• Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery

• Contact Lenses

• Boutique Eyewear

RIVERSIDE

Ascension/St. Vincent’s Hospital DePaul Building 2 Shircliff Way, Suite 120 Jacksonville, FL 32204

MIDDLEBURG

Ascension/St. Vincent’s Hospital

1658 St. Vincent’s Way, Suite 250 Middleburg, FL 32068

Dr. Clayman’s Plastic Surgery Center & Miracle Spa

PLASTIC SURGERY & COSMETIC REJUVENATION

It’s easy to see why Dr. Clayman’s Plastic Surgery Center & Miracle Spa has been voted one of Jacksonville’s Best for more than 20 years, most recently voted Best Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Practice by The Florida Times Union's Bold City Best of Jax 2023. With Dr. Mark Clayman at the helm, patients in need of cosmetic, reconstructive or non-surgical procedures to rejuvenate or enhance their faces and bodies receive extraordinary results from the award-winning medical team with more than 50 combined years of surgical experience.

Mark earned his undergraduate degree at Harvard University, completed his surgical and plastic surgery training at the University of Florida, and enhanced his training working with world-renowned experts throughout the U.S. and Brazil.

Among those renowned experts is Mark’s late father, Dr. Loren Clayman. Highly regarded for his skill and expertise for over 30 years in all aspects of Cosmetic & Reconstructive Plastic Surgery. Mark had the privilege of working side-by-side for many years before his unfortunate passing in 2021.

As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Mark has received numerous awards, including the Patient-Satisfaction Award; Top 40-under-40 from the Jacksonville Business Journal for numerous accomplishments; Top-10 Doctor in Northeast Florida; Compassionate Doctor Award; and The Patient’s Choice 5th-Anniversary Award (given only to 1% of all doctors nationwide). He also twice received the Outstanding Research Award by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Like his father, Mark is a devoted supporter of numerous community outreach efforts, including The National Blood Clot Alliance, various breast and cancer nonprofits, Boys & Girls Club, and Her Song. They developed their interest from Loren’s father, who devoted his life to treating underserved communities. Mark says his favorite part of the practice and being a doctor is the unique personal approach and planning that goes into ensuring each patient has the best care possible, caring for them like family.

Voted “Best in Jax,” “#1 in the 904,” and “Bold City Best” awards as Top Plastic Surgeons in Northeast Florida and recipient of “Companies with Heart,” the award-winning team at Clayman Plastic Surgery provides experienced, quality surgical expertise to patients.

Benjamin J. Thomas, MD; Raul J. Moreno, MD; Luis G. León-Alvarado, MD; Thomas A. Barnard, MD; Steven Houston IIl, MD, FASRS; Thalmon R. Campagnoli, MD; Jonathan A. Staman, MD; Nisarg P. Joshi, MD; Matthew A. Cunningham, MD, FASRS; Jaya B. Kumar, MD, FASRS; Kyle S. Fallgatter, MD; Abdallah M. Jeroudi, MD; James A. Staman, MD; Elias C. Mavrofrides, MD; and Tomas A. Moreno, MD. Joining this Fall: Madeleine Yehia, MD; Gabrielle Turski, MD, at right.

Florida Retina Institute

EXCELLENCE IN SPECIALIZED RETINA CARE

Florida Retina Institute has been advancing vitreo-retinal care and research for over 45 years. With a team of 15 accomplished and continuously growing vitreo-retinal specialists, 20 locations across Florida and Georgia, and three clinical trials and research departments in Orlando, Jacksonville, and Wildwood, Florida Retina Institute remains a trusted name in your community for providing excellence in retinal health and patient care.

Florida Retina Institute physicians are nationally and internationally recognized leaders in vitreo-retinal care, honored to consistently be named Castle Connolly Top Doctors. With extensive education and advanced training from many of the world’s most prestigious institutions—including Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Duke Eye Center, Emory University, Cleveland Clinic, and the University of Florida—they exemplify the highest level of clinical excellence and patient-focused care. Their collective expertise ensures personalized, compassionate care for conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal detachments, and pediatric retinal diseases. We offer leading technology, multilingual care, and access to cutting-edge clinical research—all in a compassionate, patient-first environment.

Florida Retina Institute is the practice you tell your family and friends about. #positivelyvisionfocused

To schedule an appointment, visit FloridaRetinaInstitute.com

SOUTHSIDE: 8786 Perimeter Park Blvd. (904) 997-9202

RIVERSIDE: 2639 Oak St. (904) 387-5600

FLEMING ISLAND: 4607 US Hwy. 17., Ste. 1 (904) 579-2800

ST. AUGUSTINE: 1100 Plantation Dr., Ste. 130 (904) 826-0663

PALATKA: 800 Zeagler Dr., Ste. 310 (386) 325-2411

FERNANDINA BEACH: 2416 Lynndale Road, Suite 201 (904) 387-5600

WAYCROSS, GA: 304 Riverside Dr. (912) 283-1400

BRUNSWICK, GA: 3120 Glynn Ave. (912) 262-9092

LAKE CITY: 265 SW Malone St., Ste. 109 (386) 487-0090

PALM COAST: 50 Leanni Way, Ste. 5E (386) 447-1847

Top Left to Bottom Right:

Health Pointe Jacksonville Acupuncture + Wellness Clinic

PELVIC FLOOR SOLUTIONS FOR WOMEN, MEN & ATHLETES— ROOTED IN EXPERTISE, DRIVEN BY RESULTS

At Health Pointe Jacksonville, we believe pelvic floor health is essential—for both women and men. Often misunderstood as a “women’s only” issue, pelvic floor dysfunction affects people of all genders and life stages, from postpartum recovery to post-prostate surgery, and from chronic pain to performance limitations in athletes.

In January, we launched our Pelvic Floor Treatment Program to meet this need head-on. Our integrative approach combines traditional acupuncture with dry needling, trigger point therapy, electroacupuncture, microcurrent, and neuromuscular reeducation to treat a wide range of symptoms: incontinence, pelvic pain, sexual dysfunction, prolapse, constipation, and nerve-related conditions like pudendal neuralgia.

Dr. Julee Miller, AP, DACM, FABORM, clinic founder and nationally boardcertified fertility and pain specialist, leads this program with over 30 years of experience in sports medicine and acupuncture. As one of only two ABORMcertified reproductive acupuncturists in Northeast Florida, she brings deep clinical knowledge to treating complex hormone and neurological conditions—now applied to pelvic health in a truly innovative way.

Our program supports a wide range of patients, including:

• Women recovering from childbirth or navigating menopause

• Men recovering from prostate treatment or managing pelvic pain

• Athletes—especially cyclists, gymnasts, lifters, and runners—working to stabilize the core and prevent injury

• Chronic pain patients with back, hip, or abdominal symptoms linked to pelvic dysfunction

At Health Pointe, pelvic floor care is just one part of our whole-person model. We also offer regenerative ozone therapy, BrainTap™ brainwave therapy, thermal nerve scanning, cosmetic acupuncture, and hormone balancing protocols.

Whether you’re struggling with pain, dysfunction, or simply want to feel strong again—we help you reconnect with your body and reclaim your well-being.

DR. JULEE MILLER, AP, DACHM, FABORM 3840 Belfort Rd., Ste. 305, Jacksonville, FL 32216 (904) 448-0046 • HPJax.com

The Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry

DEDICATED SPECIALISTS IN THE RESTORATION & REPLACEMENT OF TEETH

As a Prosthodontist, Dr. Rodriguez is uniquely qualified to provide highly skilled, customized, and expert dental restoration services for any complex dental condition. He has a careful understanding of the dynamics of a smile and the preservation of a healthy mouth.

WHAT IS A PROSTHODONTIST?

Prosthodontists are dental specialists who focus on the restoration and replacement of teeth, helping their patients to obtain optimum appearance and function into their smiles. They are extensively trained in state-ofthe-art techniques related to dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures (complete or partial), veneers, cosmetic dentistry and more. After dental school they receive three years of additional specialized training, to focus in major dental problems.

With over 30 years of experience in the Prosthodontics Science, The Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry continues to be the number one option for prosthetic and implant restorations. Dr. Rodriguez and his experienced staff are highly respected members of the dental community. This is why dentists refer their most challenging cases to them. To do this, they also have a reputation for assembling and managing the finest teams of dental specialists in the region.

Being one of the first Prosthodontists in the nation to be trained to use Advanced Dental Imaging Technology at the Naval Postgraduate Dental School in Bethesda, Maryland, Dr. Rodriguez knows how important it is

to have the best equipment and technology in his practices. This is why Dr. Rodriguez prepared the Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry with the best technology to provide advanced services to our patients. This is why the technology at the Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry is the leading edge in surgical implant placement planning and restorative treatment.

The Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry offers you a spectrum of services, support and exceptional care. No matter how complex your case, our highly experienced team of experts will deliver a dental solution that is precise! We are the architects of beautifully designed smiles and artfully planned dentistry.

Smile Enhancement | Dental Implant Restorations Total Dental Reconstructions | Custom Complete Dentures

NOEL RODRIGUEZ, DMD, MS

6855 Belfort Oaks Pl., Jacksonville, FL 32216 (904) 281-0658 • JCPIDental.com

Martinez Dental Solutions

GENERAL, COSMETIC & IMPLANT DENTISTRY

Dr. Jose M. Martinez has been practicing the art of dentistry for 31 years. Growing up, his family was very close. So, after graduating from Southern Illinois University, he decided to return to Miami, where he practiced for almost 11 years. Along the way he married his beautiful wife Sandra and, 27 years later, his family has grown to include a son and a daughter. In 2005 they moved to Jacksonville where, with much hard work, in 2006 he proudly opened Southpoint Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry, followed by Signature Smiles in 2009. In 2016, he changed the names of both practices to Martinez Dental Solutions, to better represent the scope of dentistry they provide.

Dentistry, as many professions, has changed profoundly, not only as it relates to the materials used, but in the way it is delivered to patients. Improving patient care and the satisfaction of all involved is Dr. Martinez’s primary focus. He is known for an innovative commitment to the discovery and transfer of dental knowledge, superior skills and the highest degree of patient care and service. New and proven technologies give him additional choices in how to provide excellent patient care with the best materials around.

“At Martinez Dental Solutions, we believe that the benefits of a healthy, beautiful smile are immeasurable. Our goal is to help our patients reach and maintain maximum oral health by providing the highest dental care available.”

AFFILIATIONS

American Academy of Implant Dentistry

American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

American Dental Association

Florida Dental Association

North East District Dental Association

Hispanic Dental Association

JOSE M. MARTINEZ, DMD, PA

SOUTHSIDE:

6817 Southpoint Pkwy., Suite 302, Jacksonville, FL 32216

(904) 296-6820

ST. JOHNS: 3546 St. Johns Bluff Rd. S., Unit 114, Jacksonville, FL 32224 (904) 996-8162 MartinezDentalSolutions.com

Meymand Oral Maxillofacial Surgery

DR SAMIRA MEYMAND

Dr. Samira “Sam” Meymand, a highly awarded and accomplished Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, took the path less traveled by most females in the field of surgery. Half of most dental school classes are currently women. Only five to ten percent of these women apply to specialize in oral surgery, are accepted, complete training, and obtain board certification. This is partly due to the length of training required (an additional 12 to 15 years), which can be prohibitive to starting a family. Since there are few women in the field, Dr. Meymand feels it is important to encourage and empower other women to enter fields such as surgery.

Dr. Meymand loves the training, discipline, and challenge of being a leader, as well as the camaraderie that comes with being in the military. The U.S. Navy was a natural fit for her. She completed her Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery residency at the National Capital Consortium, Naval Hospital Bethesda in 2008. Her residency coincided with the heights of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. As a result, the pressures of residency were amplified when hundreds of soldiers were expedited to Bethesda to be treated for serious— and sometimes devastating—facial injuries resulting from IED blasts and bullet wounds. “It was an honor to treat these soldiers and be brave for the families of these heroes that put their lives on the line.”

The military helped prepare Dr. Meymand for the challenge of starting her own business. “Leadership, sacrifice, and teamwork are important qualities I learned in the military. If you have a strong work ethic and surround yourself with great people, then great things can happen. I am blessed to have an amazing staff. We work as a team to take great care of our patients with compassion and love,” she says.

Dr. Meymand’s staff members also help run the office when Dr. Meymand performs her U. S. Navy Reserve duties as the Executive Officer of NMRTC Bethesda, Maryland. In her prior role, she served as a Commanding Officer of the 14th Dental Company, 4th Dental Battalion. She was board-selected to be the Officer-In-Charge of a joint field exercise in 2018 for one year where her team of 51 (Doctors, Nurses, Ancillary Services, and Corpsmen) participated in a two-week mass casualty exercise. “This experience leading a medical unit in a real-world military medicine scenario was an honor and the reality of mass casualty medical training. Women play a crucial role in the setup, organization, and treatment of mass casualty victims.”

As a Surgeon, a Navy CAPTAIN, and a business owner, Dr. Meymand empowers other women to achieve their goals, whether in the military or in her office. She is dual-boarded as a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and a Diplomate of the National Dental Board of Anesthesiology. She served on the Jacksonville Dental Society Executive Board for 5 years and served as President from 2017 to 2018. She also co-founded the Jacksonville Women’s Dental Society and serves on the Baptist Health Women in Medicine Executive Board. Dr. Meymand’s practice is conveniently located in Mandarin and offers the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures, various levels of anesthetic and sedation surgery, and spa treatments such as Botox and Juvederm.

Jackson C. Tan, MD, PhD, PT

PHYSICAL MEDICINE & REHABILITATION

Dr. Tan is Board Certified by the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. He is the Medical Director of Occupational and Rehabilitation Center (ORC ), which as it approaches its 39th year of caring for patients on the First Coast, continues as Northeast Florida’s longest established independent outpatient physical medicine and rehabilitation practice. With three convenient locations designed with patient comfort and privacy as a priority, ORC’s healthcare team is always ready to welcome new patients, meeting all of their rehabilitation and wellness needs. ORC features private treatment rooms with one-on-one hands-on physical therapy sessions as well as in-ground heated indoor therapy pools for guided aquatic therapy.

Dr. Tan shares Northeast Florida’s Leading Physicians distinction with his “Top Doc Team.’ He leads an interdisciplinary team of licensed healthcare professionals who work together to develop a comprehensive non-invasive rehabilitation program, customized for every individual, to bring the patient to their optimum function at their workplace and home. ORC offers a healing environment where patients benefit from an unparalleled level of experience, expertise, and continuity of care from Dr. Tan and his staff.

ORC takes pride in the fact that staff members are long-time Jacksonvillearea residents dedicated to serving our local community. The ORC registered trademark is an upward spiral, symbolizing ORC’s mission and commitment to every patient’s positive progress and journey to health and wellness.

Dr. Tan completed his Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) residency at New York University (NYU) Medical Center as Chief Resident. He was recognized with an “Outstanding Contribution Award” at the United Nations after the publication of his medical textbook, Practical Manual of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Diagnostics, Therapeutics and Basic Problems, of which a copy is kept at the Library of Congress. Dr. Tan’s textbook has been used at medical schools, at PM&R and other residency programs, and by allied health practitioners in the United States and abroad. His publisher, Elsevier, a top international medical publisher, has scheduled the third edition of his textbook, rebranded as Tan’s Practical Manual of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, to come out this November.

Dr. Tan has lectured in the United States and internationally on various PM&R and physical therapy topics and his publications have been cited numerous times by other academics and research scientists. Prior to his residency training, Dr. Tan earned a PhD in physical therapy from NYU and was a practicing physical therapist at the Hospital for Joint Diseases-Orthopedic Institute, at the Occupational and Industrial Orthopedic Center, and with a pain management specialist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. As a PM&R doctor (also called Physiatrist), Dr. Tan focuses on the conservative and non-invasive treatment of neuromusculoskeletal disorders (for example patients with neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain, hip pain, knee pain, etc.) resulting from injury or disease.

OCCUPATIONAL & REHABILITATION CENTER (ORC) –CELEBRATING 39 YEARS CARING FOR FLORIDA’S FIRST COAST

CORPORATE OFFICE / SOUTHSIDE

6144 Gazebo Park Pl. S., Suite 101 Jacksonville, FL 32257 (904) 260-3011

ORANGE PARK / WESTSIDE Park Professionals

1409 Kingsley Avenue, Building 3, Orange Park, FL 32073 (904) 264-1402

DUNN AVENUE / NORTHSIDE / SOUTH GEORGIA 2425 Dunn Ave., Suite 1, Jacksonville, FL 32218 (904) 714-0208

ORCjax.com

Coastal Cosmetic Center

PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

Plastic surgery is no longer an if but a when! When it is time for you, look no further than Coastal Cosmetic Center.

Timothy E. Fee, MD, FACS, and Jordan Bilezikian, MD, are highly skilled plastic surgeons known for delivering exceptional results with a focus on improving patient self confidence, maintaining safety, and the highest level of quality. Their practice is built on the foundation of excellence, combining surgical expertise with an attentive staff that ensures each patient feels supported throughout their aesthetic journey. Our practice offers a range of services including surgical and nonsurgical options, including medical-grade skin care, injectables, and other aesthetic treatments designed to enhance and maintain excellent results.

With a nationally accredited (AHCA) onsite outpatient surgery center, patients benefit from the convenience and privacy of in-house procedures, as well as the reassurance of a safe and consistent environment. In addition to the main southside location, their Durbin Crossing location ensures accessibility to more patients in the Jacksonville area.

Dr. Fee and Dr. Bilezikian work alongside Kate Shamp, DNP, APRNBC, and her dedication to creating natural-looking results that enhance patient confidence and quality of life. In addition to providing elective cosmetic enhancements, we do accept most major insurance plans. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine (FIRM)

KEVIN L. WINSLOW, MD | TERESA M. ERB, MD

ADRIENNE L. GENTRY, DO | VIJI SUNDARAM, MD

Founded in 1991, the Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine (FIRM) has helped bring over 18,000 babies into the world. Recognized as one of America’s Best Fertility Clinics by Newsweek and earning top scores from FertilityIQ.com, FIRM is among the nation’s leading infertility practices.

FIRM’s commitment to patient care has resulted in some of the highest pregnancy success rates in the country. Open seven days a week, its experienced nursing and embryology teams provide year-round IVF services. All physicians are dual board-certified in obstetrics/gynecology and reproductive endocrinology/infertility.

Founder Dr. Kevin Winslow trained at the renowned Jones Institute. Dr. Teresa Erb holds two patents from her research in embryonic stem cell development. Dr. Adrienne Gentry previously served as an assistant professor at Virginia Tech. Dr. Viji Sundaram trained in robotic surgery in San Francisco.

FIRM offers multilingual support and has offices in Jacksonville (Downtown and South), Tallahassee, and Daytona.

SOUTHPOINT (MAIN OFFICE)

4147 Southpoint Drive East Jacksonville, FL 32216

DURBIN PAVILION

45 Durbin Pavilion Drive St. Johns, FL 32259

(904) 332-6774

www.coastalcosmetic.com

CONTACT: (904) 399-5620 • firmjax.com

Downtown: 841 Prudential Dr., Suite 260, Jacksonville, FL 32207

South: 14540 Old St. Augustine Rd., Suite 2503, Jacksonville, FL 32258

FOLLOW US: facebook.com/firmjax

C.J. Henley, DMD

COSMETIC • FAMILY • DENTISTRY

At C.J. Henley, DMD it is our goal to form life-long relationships with our patients, providing them with the best in cosmetic dentistry, family dentistry, and oral medicine.

Dr. Henley and his staff pride themselves on being a patient focused practice and strive to spend as much time as needed with each and every patient.

Dr. Henley believes that the integration of technology in dentistry is important to excellent clinical outcomes, however that is no substitute for diagnostic expertise and clinical mastery. The focus should not be on how quickly the work is completed, but how long the work lasts. Excellent dentistry should stand the test of time.

Dr. Henley earned his Bachelor of Science in Integrative Biology and his Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the University of Florida. During his time at the University of Florida College of Dentistry, Dr. Henley received awards for ethics and cosmetic dentistry.

Dr. Henley is dedicated to legislation that helps preserve the highest clinical standards in dentistry. He has served as the President of the Northeast District Dental Association and as Delegate to the Florida Dental Association.

While in private practice Dr. Henley has continued his educational commitment and served as faculty in the department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Florida College of Dentistry.

Dr. Henley serves as a member of the Head and Neck Tumor Board at Baptist MD Anderson. The tumor board is a multi-specialty group that works together using the latest in both dentistry and medicine to ensure that cancer patients have the best possible outcomes.

AFFILIATIONS:

Northeast District Dental Association (Past President) Florida Dental Association (Delegate)

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Florida College of Dentistry (Faculty) Head and Neck Tumor Board, Baptist MD Anderson

C.J. HENLEY, DMD

3675 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32207

Office: 904.398.1549 • www.cjhenleydmd.com

Blanca Martinez-Hoppe, DMD, PA

HODGES FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dr. Blanca Martinez-Hoppe is a family and cosmetic dentist who provides exceptional care for patients of all ages. After graduating dental school with honors in 1997, she went on to complete a general practice residency program at Mt. Sinai Hospital in Miami Beach.

Dr. Hoppe then relocated to Tampa, where she joined a group practice and lived there for nine years until she decided to open Hodges Family & Cosmetic Dentistry and moved to Jacksonville to be closer to her family. At Hodges Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Martinez-Hoppe and her team of friendly professionals provide state-of-the-art services in a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. She believes in conservative cosmetic treatments for the restoration of a beautiful and long-lasting smile. You can expect compassionate and professional service. She believes in preventive care and maintenance for the overall health of the individual. When you visit with Dr. Martinez-Hoppe, you feel right at home. She always addresses your main concerns and listens attentively to your requests. Hodges Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is a dental practice devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile.

Lazzara Orthodontics

CREATING THE BOLD CITY’S BEST SMILES FOR CHILDREN, TEENS, AND ADULTS

Drs. John Lazzara and Amy Poblenz are dedicated to creating smiles that are just as spectacular as their patients' time in treatment. This "recipe" of combining expertise with joy and compassion is the foundation upon which Lazzara Orthodontics has been known for its 17 years in the community.

Drs. Lazzara's and Poblenz's approach to orthodontic care transcends aligning teeth; they know that the best outcomes result from fostering trust, assurance, and an unparalleled patient experience. From the initial consultation to the final adjustment, every aspect of treatment is meticulously crafted to ensure not only beautiful smiles but also enduring confidence.

At Lazzara Orthodontics, innovation is the norm. State-of-the-art technology and advanced techniques are seamlessly integrated into each treatment plan, resulting in a journey that's quicker, smoother, and genuinely enjoyable.

However, what truly sets Lazzara Orthodontics apart is its unwavering dedication to patient-centered care. Drs. Lazzara and Poblenz, along with their exceptional team, prioritize the individual needs and concerns of each patient, fostering a culture of compassion and support that extends far beyond office visits.

This commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. Lazzara Orthodontics has been honored to be named "Bold City's Best Orthodontist," a testament to their relentless pursuit of perfection and their profound impact on the lives of their patients.

Pediatric Eye Consultants of North Florida

PEDIATRIC OPHTHALMOLOGY / ADULT STRABISMUS SURGERY / VIP PRIORITY ACCESS MEMBERSHIPS

Launching Soon!

Pediatric Eye Consultants of North Florida is proud to introduce a new concept in specialty care. Led by board-certified, fellowship-trained pediatric ophthalmologist and adult strabismus surgeon Dawn Duss, MD, the practice is launching an exclusive VIP Priority Access Membership Program designed to meet the growing demand for timely, expert care.

With fewer than 1,000 pediatric ophthalmologists nationwide and only five serving over 400,000 children under the age of 18 in Northeast Florida, wait times for specialty consultations are rising exponentially. Our innovative membership program provides a faster, smoother path to care offering flexible scheduling, personal service and exclusive benefits for busy families and professionals.

The Elite Membership program currently offers the following:

• Expedited access to appointments

• Dedicated Access Membership Coordinator for scheduling and triage

• Direct communication via private email/phone line

• Reserved appointment times unavailable to the general public

• Preference given for high demand time slots

• Access to a private VIP lounge with refreshments

• Minimal in-office wait times

• Seamless referring provider coordination

• Proactive medical record review

When waitlists stretch for months, VIP Access puts you on the fast track to care.

Finally, medicine that respects your time and schedule.

245 Riverside Ave., Suite 550, Jacksonville, FL 32202 P: (321) 594-4968 F: (904) 425-9414 KidsEyesJax.com/Membership

Dr. Mary Pentel

PREMIUM LASER SPECIALIST PERSONALIZED, COMPREHENSIVE DERMATOLOGIC CARE

At the forefront of modern dermatology, Dr. Mary Pentel combines expert knowledge with cutting-edge laser technology to deliver exceptional skin care tailored to every patient. She has been practicing in the Jacksonville Area for over 27 years. From advanced laser treatments to medical dermatology and aesthetic rejuvenation, Dr. Pentel is recognized for precision, results, and a warm, caring approach that puts patients first.

 Board-Certified Dermatologist & Micrographic Dermatologic Surgeon

 Expertise in Laser & Aesthetic Treatments

 Personalized Plans for Every Skin Type

 Friendly, Welcoming Environment

 Trusted by Patients & Colleagues

Our premium laser practice offers patients an extensive selection of lasers and energy-based devices to treat wrinkles, body contouring, hair loss, melanoma, acne, redness, scars, acne scarring, nail fungus, and much more. We also offer surgical and non-surgical treatment options for skin cancers to include MOHS surgery and Image Guided Superficial Radiation (IGSRT). Your skin deserves expert care in capable hands. Whether you're seeking solutions for lasers to treat your skin condition, or want to enhance your natural beauty, experience the difference of comprehensive, personalized dermatology and cosmetics.

1807 3rd Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

4727 Sunbeam Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32257

(904) 880-0622 • www.penteldermatology.com

Boutique Breast Imaging

DR. KATHRYN PEARSON, MD

Abetter mammogram starts with breast experts. At Boutique Breast Imaging, your care is in the hands of fellowship-trained, board-certified radiologists who specialize exclusively in breast imaging. Founded and led by Dr. Kathryn Pearson, M.D.—a Stanfordand UCSF-educated breast imaging radiologist—our team is known for providing dedicated, compassionate care with the highest diagnostic accuracy, lowest unnecessary recall and biopsy rates, and the least anxiety and discomfort possible. From mammograms to biopsies and personalized consultations, we deliver the most comprehensive evaluations with expedited results in a supportive, state-of-the-art setting. Most insurance accepted.

6871 Belfort Oaks Place Jacksonville, FL 32216 (904) 901-0110

BoutiqueBreastImaging.com

Caven :Dental Group

ADVANCED. THOUGHTFUL. TRUSTED.

Dr. Caven’s family has provided trusted dental care for over 160 years. And today, we at Caven Dental Group believe that life is nicer with a healthy, beautiful smile.

We are committed to providing a caring and thoughtful patient experience that helps you achieve your goals. You will never be judged in our office, no matter how long you have been away from the dental office. And with our advanced digital capabilities of modern dentistry, your path to an amazing smile is more incredible than ever!

"I received old-fashioned personal care, which is a pleasantly different approach than the growing franchises of dental clinic branches and impersonal clinic-patient relationships.”

"Everything during my visit exceeded my expectations. Very friendly, courteous and happy staff. Exemplary service provided that was all inclusive."

RICHARD CAVEN, DMD • SHELBY DENMAN, DMD

8930 RG Skinner Pkwy., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 645-3366 • CavenDental.com

Eccella Smiles & Aesthetics

MEET DR. SHELBY SOX

Dr. Shelby Sox, a Jacksonville Beach native, embarked on her educational journey at the University of Florida. There, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Food Science, followed by a Doctorate in Dental Medicine from UF College of Dentistry. Dr. Sox began her career in General Dentistry in New Jersey, practicing for two years before returning to her hometown. She has since dedicated herself to serving the Jacksonville Beach community that she holds dear.

When she’s not in the office, Dr. Sox enjoys traveling with her husband, spending quality time with family and friends, playing with her two dogs, and cheering on the Gators!

1400 Marsh Landing Pkwy #104 Jacksonville, FL (904) 585-2463 www.eccellasmiles.com

John-Paul Pham, MD, FACC, FSCAI

INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY

Dr. John-Paul Pham is a board-certified Interventional Cardiologist whom specializes in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of adult cardiovascular disease.

Dr. Pham is trained and certified in a variety of invasive cardiovascular procedures including cardiac catheterization, coronary intervention/stenting, valvuloplasty, left atrial appendage occlusion, peripheral vascular intervention, and deep and superficial vein intervention.

Dr. Pham is an active member of the American Heart Association, the American College of Cardiology, and the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions. He has made TV and radio appearances on WJXT and WOKV and gives talks regularly around the community and statewide.

Dr. Pham is well-published in peer-reviewed journals and remains engaged in cutting edge cardiovascular research with the Sarah Cannon Research Institute and the East Coast Institute for Research.

8075 Gate Parkway West, Unit 302, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904.513.3179 • phamcvcenter.com

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JACKSONVILLE MEDICAL SPECIALISTS

The American Board of Medical Specialties is a not-for-profit organization that represents 40 medical specialty boards that establish and maintain high standards for doctor certification and the delivery of safe, quality medical care by certified doctor specialists. Board certification means the physician graduated from a recognized medical school as either an MD or DO, completed several years of training in an accredited residency program, and passed an extensive written exam given by the board. In other words, when you choose a doctor who is board certified, you can be confident he or she meets nationally recognized standards for education, knowledge, experience and skills to provide high quality care in a specific medical specialty. The following list is comprised of the Jacksonville Magazine clients who are board-certified physicians practicing in Northeast Florida. In addition to their names and practices, we also have included their board certifications and specialties.

DUNBAR ALCINDOR, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Functional and Stereotactic Neurosurgery

• Neurological Surgery

JOHN ANDERSON, DPM

UF Health Jacksonville

• Podiatry

• Reconstructive Surgery and Sports Medicine

DOMINICK ANGIOLILLO, MD, PHD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Interventional Cardiology

DONALD A. BARNHORST, JR., MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in Cataract and Cornea Surgery

THEODORE BASS, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Interventional Cardiology

• Internal Medicine

PHILLIP BELL, MD

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

EROL BELLI, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Thoracic Surgery

• Surgery

• Cardiothoracic Surgery

JORDAN BILEZIKIAN, MD

Coastal Cosmetic Center

• Surgery

• General Surgery

WILLIAM BOLGER, MD

UF Health Otolaryngology

• Otolaryngology

FRANK W BOWDEN III, MD

Bowden Eye & Associates

• Ophthalmologist

JOHN BULLOCK, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

• Oculoplastic Surgery

GERALD BURFORD, MD

Millenium Physician Group

• Internal Medicine

CHRISTINE BURKE, OD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometry

DAVID CARO, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Emergency Medicine

HIRAM CARRASQUILLO, MD, FAAOS

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Foot & Ankle Orthopedic Surgeon

• Orthopaedic Surgery

CALVIN CHOI, M.D., M.H.A.

UF Health Jacksonville

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Interventional Cardiology

• Nuclear Cardiology (National Board of Echocardiology Diplomate)

AMIT CHOKSHI, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in Cataract, LASIK, and Cornea Surgery

MARK CLAYMAN, MD

Dr. Clayman’s Plastic Surgery

Center & Miracle Spa

• Plastic Surgery

ASHLEY COWART, OD, FAAO

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometry

MATTHEW CUNNINGHAM, MD, FASRS

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

• Medical Examiners

JASON DAY, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Cornea & Refractive Surgery

• Ophthalmology

MICHAEL DeFAZIO, MD, FACS

Florida Plastic Surgery Group

• Plastic Surgery

ANKIT DESAI, MD, FACS

Florida Plastic Surgery Group

• Plastic Surgery

MICHELLE L. DIAZ, MD

Atlantic Eye Institute

• Cataract

• Glaucoma

• Refractive

• LASIK

• Ophthalmology

PAUL DOUGHERTY, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

• Orthopaedic Trauma

DONALD M. DOWNER, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

• Cornea Surgery

J. PARKER DuPREE, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

• Medical Retina, Surgical Retina

CHARLES V. DUSS, MD

Atlantic Eye Institute

• Cataract

• Refractive

• LASIK

• Glaucoma

• Ophthalmology

DAWN DUSS, MD

Pediatric Eye Consultants of North Florida

• Pediatric Ophthalmology

• Adult Strabismus Surgery

• Ophthalmology

TERESA M ERB MD

Florida Institute for

Reproductive Medicine

• OB/GYN and Reproductive Endocrinology/Infertility

KHADEEJA ESMAIL, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Internal Medicine

BOYD EVANS, MD

Millenium Physician Group

• Family Medicine

MICHAEL FALLUCCO, MD, FACS

Florida Plastic Surgery Group

• Plastic Surgery

TIMOTHY FEE, MD

Coastal Cosmetic Center

• Surgery

• Plastic Surgery

• General Surgery

JOANNE FRANCIS, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in Cataract and Cornea Surgery

KATHRYN B. FREIDL, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in Cataract and Glaucoma Surgery

MICHAEL FREIDL, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

BRETT FRYKBERG, MD

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Adult Reconstruction

• Orthopaedic Surgery

OMAR GAYASADDIN, DO

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in Cataract and Glaucoma Surgery

ADRIENNE L. GENTRY, DO

Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine

• OB/GYN and Reproductive Endocrinology/Infertility

ADAM GITLIN, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

• Orthopaedic Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery

STEVEN GODWIN, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Emergency Medicine

CHRISTIAN GUIER, OD, FAAO

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometry

ARPETA GUPTA, MD

Millenium Physician Group

• Endocrinology

CHARLES HADDAD, MD

Millenium Physician Group

• Family Medicine

JUDELLA HADDAD-LACLE, MD

Millenium Physician Group

• Family Medicine

ALLISON HARMEL, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Comprehensive Ophthalmology

• Ophthalmology

C.M. HARRIS, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

S. AKBAR HASAN, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in Cataract, LASIK, and Cornea Surgery

DAVID HAYES, DO

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

• Glaucoma Surgery

YASMIN ISLAM, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

• Glaucoma Surgery

ALI-MUSA JAFFER, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Clinical Neurophysiology

• Neurology

ABDALLAH JEROUDI, MD

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

• Medical Examiners

P. VERNON JONES, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

SAJID KADIR, MBBS (MD)

UF Health Jacksonville

• Internal Medicine

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Critical Care Medicine

BRANDON KAMBACH, MD

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

KEVIN KAPLAN, MD

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

• Sports Medicine

AHMAD KASRAEIAN, MD, FACS

Kasraeian Urology

• Urology

ALI KASRAEIAN, MD, FACS

Kasraeian Urology

• Urology

SINA KASRAEIAN, MD

Southeast Orthopedic Specialists

• Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine

MARC KAYE, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

• Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery

STEPHEN KEIM, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Internal Medicine

• Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology (ABIM Certified)

NICKELLE KELLOUGH, OD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometry

GARRY KITAY, MD

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

• Hand Surgery

KENZO J. KOIKE, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in Cataract and Glaucoma Surgery

DAVID A. KOSTICK, MD, FACS

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in Oculoplastic, Orbital & Lacrimal Surgery

AMANDA KOVACS, OD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometry

SUPARNA KRISHNAIENGAR, MBBS (MD)

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurology

• Clinical Neurophysiology

• Epilepsy

NATASHA KRZYANOWSKI OD

Bowden Eye & Associates

• Optometry

PEI WEN LAWING, OD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometry

JOHN LAZZARA, DDS, MS, MBA

Lazzara Orthodontics

• Orthodontics

LAWRENCE M. LEVINE, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Comprehensive Ophthalmology

McGREGOR N. LOTT, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in Cataract and Medical Retina Surgery

MADELINE MAHOWALD, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Internal Medicine

• Cardiovascular Disease

• ABP Certified

JERRY MAIDA, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in Laser Refractive Surgery

STEVEN R. MAIER, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in LASIK & Cataract Surgery

KARTIK MANGIPUDI, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurology

• Movement Disorder

BLANCA MARTINEZ-HOPPE, DMD, AACD

Hodges Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

• General Dentistry

JOSE MARTINEZ, DMD, PA

Martinez Dental Solutions

• Cosmetic Family Dentistry

KIMBERLY MCPHEARSON, DO

UF Health Jacksonville

• Internal Medicine

• Neurocritical Care

SAMIRA MEYMAND, MD

Meymand Oral Maxillofacial Surgery

• Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

JASON F. MILES, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in Cataract and Cornea Surgery

JULEE MILLER, AP, DOM, NMT

Health Pointe Jacksonville

Acupuncture + Wellness Clinic

• Acupuncture

THOMAS MORENO, MD

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

• Medical Examiners

RAUL MORENO, MD

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

• Medical Examiners

RAGU MURTHY, MD

Well&You

• Cardiology

RONALD NORMAN, OD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometry

SHEILA PABON, MD

Atlantic Eye Institute

• Ophthalmology

PANKIT PARIKH, MD

Well&You

• Radiology

• Interventional Radiology

JOSEPH W. PARKS IV

Florida Plastic Surgery Group

• Plastic Surgery

JANESSA S. PATEL, OD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometry

RACHANA PATEL, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in Cataract Surgery

RAVI PATEL, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in Cataract and Cornea Surgery

KATHRYN PEARSON, MD

Boutique Breast Imaging

• Radiology

• Breast Imaging

RUSSELL PECORARO, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

• Medical Retina

MARY PENTEL, MD

Southside Dermatology

• Dermatology

• Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery

JOHN-PAUL PHAM, MD

Pham Cardiovascular Center

• Internal Medicine

• Interventional Cardiology

• Cardiology

• Echocardiography

• Nuclear Cardiology

RICHARD PICERNO, MD

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

JASON PIRAINO, DPM

UF Health Jacksonville

• Podiatry

• Foot and Ankle Surgery

AMY POBLENZ, DMD, MS

Lazzara Orthodontics

• Orthodontics

MICHAEL PULLEY, MD, PHD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurology

• Clinical Neurophysiology

• Multiple Sclerosis

• Neuromuscular Medicine

LINTU RAMACHANDRAN, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Internal Medicine

• Neurocritical Care

• Neurology

NATHANIEL RIEVESCHL, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Cataract and Cornea Surgery

JACOB RINKINEN, MD

Florida Plastic Surgery Group

• Plastic Surgery

KIMBERLY A. RIORDAN, OD, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometry

JOSE RIVAS RIOS, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Internal Medicine

• Cardiovascular Disease

NOEL RODRIGUEZ, DMD, MS

Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics & Implant Dentistry

• Prosthodontics

LOUIS RUSSO, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurology

• Neuromuscular Medicine

ELIAS SAIKALI, MD

Millenium Physician Group

• Internal Medicine

ADITYA SAINI, MD, MMM

UF Health Jacksonville

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology

KARIM J. SAMARA, MD

Atlantic Eye Institute

• Ophthalmology

• Cataract, Cosmetic and Reconstructive

• Surgery

• Lasik

• Glaucoma

ROBERT SAVAREGE, DO

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

• Pain Medicine

CHRISTOPHER SCUDERI, DO

Millenium Physician Group

• Family Medicine/OMT

KATE SHAMP, DNP, APRN-BC

Coastal Cosmetic Center

• Plastic Surgery

JULIE SHANER, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

• Adult Reconstructive Orthopaedics

RAJESH K. SHETTY, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in Cataract and Glaucoma Surgery

SCOTT SILLIMAN, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurology

• Multiple Sclerosis

• Vascular Neurology

DANIEL SOFFER, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Interventional Cardiology

GREGORY SOLES, MD

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

DANTE SORRENTINO, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

• Comprehensive Ophthalmology

JONATHAN A. STAMAN, MD

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

• Vitreoretinal Diseases and Surgery

JAMES A. STAMAN, MD

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

• Vitreoretinal Diseases and Surgery

BRUCE STEINBERG, MD

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Orthopedic Surgery

• Hand Surgery

VALENTIN SUMA, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Nuclear Cardiology (Certification Board of Nuclear Cardiology)

• Diplomate National Board of Echocardiography

VIJI SUNDARAM, MD

Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine

• OB/GYN and Reproductive Endocrinology/Infertility

SIVA SURYADEVARA, MBBS (MD)

UF Health Jacksonville

• Internal Medicine

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Interventional Cardiology

JACKSON C. TAN, MD, PhD, PT, CIME

Occupational & Rehabilitation Center

• Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

KOUROSH TAVANAIEPOUR, DO

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurological Surgery

• Minimal Invasive and Complex Spine

BENJAMIN J. THOMAS, MD

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

• Vitreoretinal Diseases and Surgery

SUSHMA K. VANCE, MD

Atlantic Eye Institute

• Ophthalmology

GLADYS VELARDE, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Cardiovascular Disease

JOHNNY WASHINGTON, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

• Orthopaedic Sports Medicine

JASON WELLER, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurology

MARY-KATE WILSON, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Cataract & Oculoplastic

KEVIN L WINSLOW, MD

Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine

• OB/GYN and Reproductive Endocrinology/Infertility

PORTER YOUNG, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

KATHERINE ZARROLI, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurology

• Clinical Neurophysiology

• Epilepsy

MARTIN ZENNI, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Internal Medicine

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Interventional Cardiology

• Nuclear Cardiology

THOMAS ZEYL, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Surgery

• Cardiothoracic Surgery

• Thoracic Surgery ✚

20 MUST-DO SUMMER EXPERIENCES IN AND AROUND JACKSONVILLE

Beaches, nature trails, craft breweries, museums, kayaking, fishing, roof-top bars, golf, pickleball, historic sites, public parks, waterside fish camps…. if you get bored in Jax this summer, you have only yourself to blame. There are near-endless opportunities for exploration, recreation and other entertaining diversions all across Northeast Florida. And while the summertime heat and afternoon thunderstorms can dampen one’s enthusiasm, they are not reasons to hide inside and not enjoy some fun in the sun this season. Here are just some of the many opportunities for adventure and exploration waiting for you only miles from your front door.

ORDER ON THE COURT

The poc-poc-poc of pickle balls flying to and fro is a common sound in many neighborhoods these days. Among the fastest growing sports ever, pickleball has its own professional and amateur leagues with matches played on tidy 44- by 20-foot courts. Some of the best courts in Northeast Florida can be found at The Yards in Ponte Vedra Beach. Here, courts open as early as 7 AM in the summer and tournaments for all skill levels are held regularly. Lessons, group clinics, friendly games and grudge matches all take place on the Yards’ 12 outdoor courts. Avoid the summer heat with a game or two at Toon Town Pickleball , an indoor, six-court facility a short punt from EverBank Field near Downtown. Both The Yards and Toon Town welcome guests with memberships available. Several area YMCAs have courts and top-flight, lighted public courts are found at Boone Park in Riverside, Southside Tennis Complex in San Marco, and Atlantic Recreation Center in Fernandina Beach.

Play Ball!

Anyone who has been to a Jumbo Shrimp baseball game lately knows that the action on the field is only part of the fun. Minor league baseball embraces the art of special promotions to lure fans like no other sport, and the Shrimp are masters of the craft. In July, the team hosts 12 home games, each with a unique theme. For example, the first 2,000 fans arriving on July 5 receive a Nolan Ryan (a pitcher for the Jax Suns years ago) bobblehead. The next day’s game is collapsable dog bowl giveaway night. Dogs are welcome to attend the game, too. Aaaay, batter batter….

DAY AT THE MUSEUM

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is the largest museum in Northeast Florida and the second largest art museum in the state. It is beloved by visitors for its collection of more than 5,000 masterworks of American and European paintings, beautiful historic gardens tucked against the St. Johns River, and an outstanding collection of Meissen porcelain. Guided tours of the galleries and gardens can be reserved, though visitors are allowed to wander as they please. Among the exhibitions presently on display is Drawn Together: From Sketch to Masterpiece, a show that pairs work from the permanent collection with the artists’ smaller study drawings to reveal the time and commitment it takes to conceptualize an idea from start to finish (Winslow Homer’s Waiting for a Bite, 1874, among others). Stick around for lunch at the Cafe, serving upscale eats such as blue crab cakes, blackened shrimp and grits, and an artisanal cheese board. Beer, wine and cocktails, too. The museum opens at 11 AM, Tuesday through Saturday, and noon on Sunday. Guest admission ranges from $15 to $20. Free admission is offered on select days, including the third Tuesday of each month.

Pickleball at The Yards

BEACHY KEEN

Boneyard Beach is a favorite local beach retreat and something of a First Coast secret. Three miles of shoreline along the Nassau Sound at the very northeast corner of the city limits form a spectacular ecological wonderland. No skyscrapers are in sight, because the beach tucked into Big Talbot Island State Park is within the bounds of the federally protected area of the Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve. Sculpted by nature, this shoreline boasts 30-foot bluffs and a striking beach peppered with massive driftwood trees that recall images of an elephant graveyard. Relatively recently (within the past few hundred years), this has meant a swift retreat for the shoreline resulting in rapid tree fall. Their bones are bleached, smoothed and battered by sun, sand and wind. While no longer standing, these trees still have an important job to do. They protect the remaining woods and uplands by dispersing and breaking up wind and wave energy and slowing further erosion. Park admission is $3 per vehicle and it opens daily at 8 AM.

Tree of Life

One of the most magnificent trees in all of Northeast Florida is Treaty Oak, located in a cozy park near the Southbank Riverwalk. The massive Southern Live Oak is thought to be approximately 250 years old, likely making it the oldest living thing in Jax. It’s even older than the city itself. How big is it? Really big. The trunk is over 25 feet in circumference; it’s more than 70 feet tall and its tangle of limbs stretch out over 145 feet. Even on the hottest summer days, there’s plenty of shade under her leaves and branches. Legend has it the name’s origin is related to stories about peace accords between  Native American and Spanish or American settlers that were signed under its branches. It’s a good story. In the 1930s, the name and history were created by journalist Pat Moran of the Florida TimesUnion. In an attempt to rescue the tree from being destroyed by developers, he wrote an article claiming a treaty had been signed at the site by indigenous Floridians and early European settlers and called it the Treaty Oak. Fake news, but we’re glad for it.

Rise and Shine

More than 20 miles of beach form

Jacksonville’s eastern boundary. Watching the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean isn’t something to be enjoyed only by those who live along the shore. Pick a day to wake up early this summer and soak in the sun as it breaks the horizon. Don’t forget your cell/camera.

IN THE NAVY

It was known as the “Gray Ghost of the Vietnam Coast” and the “Train Buster of the Korean War.” Today, the USS Orleck rests peacefully alongside a St. Johns River pier in the heart of Downtown. The Orleck is no ordinary vessel, but a Gearing-class destroyer that served in the United States Navy from 1945 to 1982. Named after Lieutenant Joseph Orleck, who was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for his actions during World War II, the ship has a rich history that spans multiple conflicts and eras. The ship is open for self-guided tours Wednesday-Sunday. Active-duty military and kids under 5 get in free. Admission for others is $3-$15.

GONE FISHING

Mother Nature isn’t always kind to the Jacksonville Beach Pier. Storms have pounded the structure on and off for decades, more than once leaving her heavily damaged and off-limits to visitors. In fact, today’s pier reopened in 2022 following a four-year, $11-million reconstruction project. The quartermile long concrete boardwalk is a true Beaches landmark, one that is favored by fishermen and surfers. Admission starts at just a buck, a few dollars more if you want to cast a line. The pier’s operators will even rent you a rod, too ($15 per day). Prized catches here include redfish, pompano, flounder and sheepshead. Dogs are not allowed,

neither are alcoholic beverages. And don’t even think about jumping into the water. It’s illegal and it would hurt. Opens daily at 6 AM.

CATCH A WAVE

Don’t let anybody tell you otherwise, surfing is hard. Learning how to catch a wave, stand and ride takes strength, coordination, stamina and the determination to try and try again. You will fall. A lot. Heck, just paddling out beyond the breaking waves is no easy chore. But it can be done. Popular local surf spots include the Poles at Mayport, the Jax Beach Pier and Huguenot Park. A number of local outfits, like Thompson Surf School, offer lessons

and summer camps for kids. Pro riders have even visited our shores for various contests, including the Red Bull Night Riders and Super Girl Surf Pro. Starting out on a standup paddle board is a good way to learn what kind of balance you’ll need to shred.

PICTURE PERFECT

There are more than 50 public murals scattered around Downtown, with more in the nearby neighborhoods of Murray Hill, Springfield and San Marco. Some of these paintings, such as “The Function of Education” on the side of the Forsyth Parking Garage, are several stories high. “Floating Land” by Shaun Thurston rises above Chamblin’s Uptown bookstore. One of the city’s first large-scale murals is “Midnight City,” by artist Mac Truque. It, and dozens of other murals and sculptures, adorn the city’s urban core. Some are near-impossible to miss while others pop up like Easter eggs waiting to be found. Make a trip Downtown to see what you can find.

HEY, BEERTENDER!

Northeast Florida’s craft beer scene is thriving and expanding with new, small-batch breweries and shops opening across the region. Intuition Ale Works, Aardwolf Brewing Co., Veterans United Craft Brewery are among the two-dozen local operations pouring ales, stouts, lagers and porters. To help you navigate the craft beer scene, pick up a Jax Ale Trail Brewery Passport. A printed version is available at participating breweries such as Bold City, Engine 15 and Fishweir Brewing Co., and a digital passport can be downloaded from Visit Jacksonville. Have your passport stamped or digitally check-in at the breweries and you earn prizes including beer koozies and t-shirts.

SHIPS AHOY!

The Downtown Skyline and riverfront are especially pretty when viewed from a boat cruising along the St. Johns River. Don’t have a boat? No problem. The St. Johns River Taxi does. Their pontoon boats float up and down the river, making land at a dozen stops between the Fuller Warren Bridge and Metro Park, every Wednesday-Saturday beginning at noon and sailing into the evening. In addition, the River Taxi hosts a variety of special voyages such as evening sunset cruises ($22) and a one-hour Downtown afternoon sightseeing cruise ($15$18). Beer, wine and water available for purchase on board.

HISTORY IN THE MAKING

As regular readers of Jacksonville Magazine know, the region is home to a number of significant historical sites, including one that is truly unique to Northeast Florida. Fort Caroline National Memorial in Arlington memorializes the short-lived French presence in sixteenth century Florida. These early colonists faced harsh conditions in a land they barely knew, a place where just surviving was a daily struggle. At the park’s visitors’ center and replica fort, guests can explore stories of exploration, survival, religious disputes, territorial battles, and first contact between American Indians and Europeans. Plus, there are nature trails to explore and terrific views of the St. Johns River. Admission is free.

THAT’S A STRETCH

Up On the Roof

Rooftop bars are peppered across the River City landscape, and the most have water views. In town, there is River & Post , Cowford Chophouse , Intuition Ale Works and Hoptinger . New to Downtown is Sip Cocktail Bar on Bay Street above the music venue Decca Live. Heading out to the beach, you’ll find the Living Room Lounge at Coop 303, O-Ku , Casa Marina Hotel and 1912 Ocean Bar . Beautiful views and tasty cocktails… sounds like a winning combo to us.

There are a number of yoga studios across the city, as well as a variety of special yoga events throughout the summer. Murray Hill’s Four Corners Park is the site of a monthly Yoga in the Park session hosted by Surrendering Minds YogaTherapy ($14). The next sessions are Saturday, July 19. Bold City Yoga hosts a series of familyfriendly classes twice monthly at Sesquicentennial Park on Main Street in Springfield. Classes are capped at 25 participants and a $5 fee is suggested. There are two sessions in July, the 12th and 26th, both starting at 10:30 AM. Out at the Beaches, Hot Spot Power Yoga leads a monthly all-level class at the Seawalk Pavilion. Sessions are free, with the next dates July 15 and August 19, 6-7 PM. Also, the Lightner Museum in St. Augustine hosts monthly Yoga in the Garden sessions (pictured), set in the shadow of Henry Flagler’s grand Hotel Alcazar. All levels welcome, no registration required, though they do ask for a donation. Don’t forget your mat, towel and water.

River & Post

TO MARKET

The people-watching is first-rate, and there are bargains to be had and delish eats to be enjoyed at the Riverside Arts Market, the region’s largest weekly gathering of artists, makers, fresh produce sellers and food trucks. Jewelry, photography, books, handmade candles, ceramics, live flowers, pet treats, fresh-baked bread, vintage clothing, leather goods, stained glass, ceviche, pancit—if you can make it, they probably sell it here. The first market day of each month also doubles as First Saturday Brews, when craft beers, seltzers and ciders are $5, with proceeds benefiting the market’s host Riverside Avondale Preservation. RAM is open every Saturday, 10 AM-3 PM, rain or shine. Parking is free

Park it Here

LET IT FLY

There are about a dozen disc golf courses in the Jacksonville area. At Ed Austin Regional Park in Arlington, the grounds of an old, nine-hole golf course were converted into a disc golf layout featuring 25 holes in all. Named Fore Palms, play is free and there are a variety of different layouts players can follow, meaning plenty of variety with lots of trees and a couple small lakes come into play. Another popular track is Springfield Disc Golf Course in Henry J. Klutho Park (pictured). The layout is relatively short, making it a welcoming course for beginners. The scenery is bolstered by views of Hogans Creek and Bethel Baptist Church. Bring a disc (don’t call it a Frisbee) or two, some comfy shoes and maybe a water

bottle and you’re good to go. The River City Disc Golf Association hosts regular events and tournaments, so check out their Facebook page for news and notes.

Jax is home to one of the largest, most diverse, and unique urban park systems in the nation with over 400 park and recreational sites within the city limits. Open spaces, historic sites, hiking paths, athletic fields, mountain biking trails, beaches, golf courses, aquatic facilities, boat and kayak launches, ecological preserves and an equestrian center—all this and more are spread over some 80,000 acres. There’s a lot to see and do. Of course, sometimes doing very little fits the bill. Pack a picnic lunch and visits some of the city’s prettiest public spots such as Jarboe Park in Neptune Beach, Memorial Park in Riverside, or Hanna Park in Mayport. Publix fried chicken, chips, pickles, cold drinks… now that’s living.

LIVING HISTORY

WILD ADVENTURES

The Jacksonville Zoo & Botanical Gardens is considered among the very best zoos in the nation. And for good reason. Elephants, tigers and apes, oh my! It has them and hundreds more creatures from around the globe. Our region is also home to several animal sanctuaries and rescue centers open to the public. For about 40 years, Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary on the city’s Northside has provided provide a safe, forever home to endangered big cats (tigers, lions, leopards, cougars, bobcats), as well as educated the public about their plight in the wild and in captivity. It opens for tours every day 1-3 PM ($7-$15) and nighttime feeding sessions Friday and Saturday, 6-7:30 PM ($20-$35).

The St. Augustine Wild Reserve is a seven-acre property with a similar mission, namely protecting endangered animals and educating visitors about their lives in the wild. The sanctuary is open for tours on select days, with admission ranging from $5 to $60. Advance reservations are a must.

Historic sites such as St. Augustine’s Castillo de San Marcos and Fort Clinch on Amelia Island are well-known and visited by thousands each week. The area is also home to many smaller, lesser-known places that are historically significant and worth a looksee. One is Walter Jones Park in Mandarin, a 10-acre preserve established in 1994 and noted as Jacksonville’s first historical park. The setting is beautiful, laden with oak trees and remnants of Orange groves draped with Spanish moss. Plus, the property is rich in Civil War and African American history. Acclaimed author and activist, Harriet Beecher Stowe, resided in Mandarin during the winters after writing her landmark novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin. The Mandarin Museum & Historic Society is housed on the grounds and guided tours of a small collection of buildings are available during operating hours. Touring the museum, visitors learn about the region’s role in the Civil War and how the Maple Leaf, a steam boat that was converted into a military transport vessel, was sunk by a Confederate mine as it returned from transporting Union Army troops in the St. Johns River. Dozens of artifacts recovered from the sunken wreck are on display at the museum. u

PHOTO BY OLIS GARBER

Walter Jones Park

Catty Shack

Jax Zoo

BY KIM BROWN

WORK LIFE Surf Life to

NEW TO NORTHEAST FLORIDA, ONE FAMILY DIVES RIGHT INTO BEACH LIVING

WWhen Lisa and Tom Nardone’s three children began wrapping up their high school careers, it was time to think about the next phase of their lives. Having lived and worked in the landlocked city of Birmingham, Michigan Tom had always dreamed of living and playing on sunny beaches and in warm, blue oceans. The Nardones began their search for the perfect oceanside hamlet, ranging from California’s Pacific coast to Tybee Island on the Eastern seaboard. When they found St. Augustine, it immediately checked all their boxes.

“When we looked at St. Augustine, we loved how close the downtown is,” recalls Lisa. “We like this beach because there’s always activity going on, there are great restaurants and my husband fell in love with the lifestyle.” After taking time to vacation in the area, they took the plunge in July 2024 by pur-

chasing a 2,300-square-foot, four-bedroom home featuring two full bathrooms, two half-bathrooms, and family ready outdoor space in St. Augustine Beach. With the youngest kids finishing their final year of high school, it was the perfect time to renovate the house and get it ready for years of family time.

Lisa and Tom selected Liz Dolan, owner and founder of Liz Dolan Interior Design, to spearhead the glow-up of their beachfront oasis. Dolan is a graduate of the Moore College of Art and Design, whose early design aesthetic was shaped by her formative years in Philadelphia and time studying at Italy’s renowned Instituto Lorenzo de’ Medici. With two decades of experience on Florida’s coast, Dolan has perfected the beach vibe.

“Lisa and Tom needed a home that was both relaxing and func-

tional,” says Dolan. “They’re both very fun and funky, and they wanted their home to reflect that. Their concept was a spa-like atmosphere, but with unexpected pops of color, pattern and texture. We took our time, carefully considering the details and ensuring the space was exactly what they wanted. We let the home speak to us. I took the existing elements that they loved and found a way to marry them into the new vision.”

The coastal home is tucked away on a small side street that spills out onto St. Augustine Beach. Entering the home and walking up a flight of stairs leads onto what Dolan termed the “bedroom floor,” which houses three of the home’s four bedrooms, including the master suite. “The master bath had this beautiful sea glass tile that

Lisa and Tom loved, so we kept it and used it as inspiration for the master suite,” says Dolan. She took the filtered whites, greens and blues and carried them throughout the room.

The Nardones both work from home, but retirement is on the horizon. Instead of designating one room as an office, they created multifunctional areas where Lisa and Tom could work. For one of the first-floor bedrooms, Dolan collaborated with the team at Bed Depot in St. Augustine to design a custom Murphy bed that, when folded away, appears to be a built-in unit. It features storage for bedding, display space and a functional desk area. Two other desks are tucked away on the floor, allowing for flexibility and privacy.

“T he owners are fun and funky and wanted a home to reflect that. “

Up another flight of stairs or a short ride in the home’s elevator is the top floor, which serves as the main living space. “With views like this, we knew we wanted to spend the most time up here,” smiles Lisa. The top floor houses the kitchen, living room, dining room and a powder room. It also features two lighting fixtures that Dolan ended up keeping and using as partial inspiration for the rest of the design–two alabaster and brass Kelly Wearstler sconces.

“I clocked them immediately,” says Dolan. “Kelly is a design icon, and those sconces set the tone for the upstairs. We added more of her lighting designs to carry the modern feel throughout.” The top floor features brushed metals and cohesive blue tones. Dolan brought in rich wood pieces and greenery to anchor the

modern accents, while hand-papered walls, executed by craftsman Jim Watson, add richness and texture. Custom-upholstered furniture, fluffy pillows and beach-themed coffee table books in rich jewel tones are scattered about, adding depth and moodiness to the bright space.

The kitchen required a lot of attention from Dolan, who redesigned the space to provide functional storage and a more efficient flow. She worked with Dee Flippin at A Kitchen Connection to select and color-drench cabinets that complemented the living room’s existing built-in, marrying the two spaces. The new island features minimal décor, allowing its stunning waterfall edge to take center stage.

The fourth bedroom on the first floor is the perfect space for college-aged kids visiting home with a pack of friends. Dolan kept it fun and casual, with wave-patterned wallpaper and wood surfboards mounted above the bed to add height to the headboard. A sofa trundle bed adds extra sleeping space. The suite is off the garage, with direct access to the outdoor living space, where the family prioritized function over form. They love paddleboarding, and Tom is taking surfing lessons, so the outdoor shower is a welcome addition. The lounge furniture was sourced from Everything Cool Furniture, and complements the existing hot tub and fire pit. A walk-over provides Lisa and Tom access to their favorite feature, the Atlantic Ocean. As one would imagine, the family looks forward to many years of living an idyllic St. Augustine Beach life. u

CREDITS

Interior Designer: Liz Dolan Interior Design

Demolition: Melissa Clemons

Kitchen Cabinetry: A Kitchen Connection

Wood Refinishing: Andy Martinez

Electrical, Plumbing, and Furniture Assembly: EC Does It Handyman Services

Handyman Services: James Weaver

Wallpaper: Jim Watson

Photography: Samantha Roettges, St. Aug Photog

Making the Grade

Tips to renovate in cost-effective ways that help get the most bang for your bucks

As the housing market cools off, homeowners are more interested than ever in finding ways to make sure their properties resell for as much as possible. However, choosing between the many potential renovations makes moving forward with a home improvement all the more challenging. So, what type of renovations can increase a home’s resale value, or generally add curb appeal that can tip the scales in a seller’s favor? While you can’t change the location of your home—the most significant factor in determining a home’s value—there are a number of relatively easy upgrades and changes one can make. Here are a few of the most cost effective.

Outdoor upgrades. Curb appeal cannot be understated, and buyers often consider the big picture here. This includes the front yard, back yard, any patio space and even the driveway. If any of these areas need serious renovation or repair, you may want to prioritize this to increase a home’s value. Driveways, in particular, can add a lot of value. This is particularly true for homes with unpaved or narrow drives. A new driveway will not only add value, but it will also attract attention. A new patio or sun deck can make a huge difference, as well. Homeowners may get a 100 percent return on this investment.

Built-In Bookshelves. Wobbly bookshelves and temporary furniture are old news. Today’s buyers are looking for well-made built-in bookcases in areas including the kitchen, den and living room. Not only do they add value to any property, they all give a home instant character. In short, built-in shelves are more of a bold statement than standing

shelves. They also present opportunities to create a secret doorway or an entertainment cabinet.

Fireplace Addition. Many buyers are looking for homes that have an actual working fireplace, something that isn’t a common feature in Northeast Florida. Many older homes have them, but newer builds lean toward a gas fireplace or none at all. Depending on the layout of the home, adding a fireplace can cost a few thousand dollars. Even though the investment is relatively small, the return you may see when selling can be huge. Plus, it can help your home stand out from others that don’t have comparable features. And it’s a definite must if comparable homes in your neighborhood all have fireplaces.

Expansive Windows. Wider windows are popular for numerous reasons. Of course, they let in more sunlight in the home, often decreasing the need for home lighting fixtures. Big windows also tend to make rooms appear larger. A home can feel practically new with more expansive views of the backyard, surrounding homes and landscape. If you have a pleasing view, take advantage of it any way you can.

Jetted Bathtubs. Going to the spa is a treat, but you might not schedule appointments as often as you’d like. That’s among the reasons homeowners are installing jetted bathtubs in bathrooms more and more. Remodeled and updated baths are high on prospective homebuyers’ wish lists, and new fixtures like rain showers and comfy soaking tubs are elements that can separate one home from the pack. u

Now You’re Cooking

According to online professional home services finder Angi, the cost of remodeling most kitchens ranges from $14,600 to $41,500, with the average being approximately $27,000. That’s a lot of money, for sure. However, it is often money well spent, particularly because a properly crafted kitchen can last 20 years or more. Also, a well-designed kitchen is a must-have for many prospective home buyers—an important consideration when it comes time to sell your house. Listed here are a few kitchen remodel project considerations and costs.

• Budget between $75 to $250 per square foot for the average kitchen

• Minor changes such as cosmetic touches, installing a new sink, replacing an appliance can still require a budget of between $10,000 and $20,000

• The top three costs associated with a kitchen remodel are cabinetry (41%), flooring (18%), and countertops (14%)

• Expect to pay approximately $2,000 to $4,500 for countertops, and between $2,000 and $5,000 for flooring. u

BOLD & BEAUTIFUL

Opustone, Florida’s leading importer and distributor of natural and engineered stone and tile, recently launched a new tile collection that merges bold design with artistic flair. Crafted in Italy, the “Dandy” line offers a refined take on marble, with clean, distinctive geometric pattern, and features glazed porcelain in a dynamic white, black and green color palette. “With its bold geometry and delicate marble aesthetic, it empowers designers to push creative boundaries and craft spaces that both contemporary and classic,” says Opustone director of product development Ames Cherre. “We are excited to see how designers will incorporate Dandy in their projects.” Whether used on walls, residential flooring, fireplace surrounds or shower walls, the 7x7 format tiles are designed for visual impact, and can be used for interior flooring and wall applications, as well as exterior wall cladding. u

Weave Me Alone

Few materials capture that sun-soaked, breezy beach vibe we all crave as summer approaches quite like natural textures such as rattan and wicker. Grounded, timeless, and effortlessly chic, it’ s no wonder these woven elements have remained a staple of interior design for decades. Whether introduced through a few carefully chosen accents or layered generously throughout your home, rattan brings a relaxed, coastal charm that instantly elevates any space.

Comfort and elegance combine to create the retro-inspired Farrah Woven Chair by Top Drawer. Crafted from natural beech with a woven rattan seat, it’s the perfect occasional chair to place in a sunlit corner, beside a side table or to relax with a good book.

The Ndipo woven pendant lampshade ($100) by The Baskey Room is made in Kenya. So, while it has a decided African allure, the imperfect shape and subtle colors mean it fits perfectly in any casual setting, even a cozy Jax Beach surf shack.

 These Rattan Puppy & Kitten Storage baskets by Ella James ($99) come in two cute animal styles, a puppy with floppy ears and a smaller kitten. They are generously proportioned and could be used for toys, or even laundry. They make tidying more fun and look stylish in a bedroom, playroom, and even the living room.

Equal parts relaxed and refined, this Rora Woven Round Coffee

Table ($1,300) by Sweetpea & Willow embodies a casual coastal style. Featuring natural woven banana concentrically wrapped to create unique color patterns and textures, this piece will punctuate your space with natural elegance.

Crafted from natural rattan and wood, the Frances

robe ($500) by Daals exudes a beautiful bohemian style. It features two metal hanging rails, multi-level shelves, and two deep drawers for ample organized storage.

crafted with a gorgeous barley weave, is ideal for seating up to two people in the garden or patio.

Triple Ward-

Game Time

Seven steps to designing the ideal children’s playroom

The perfect playroom should inspire the mind, encouraging curiosity and play while also being entirely functional and easy to keep free of clutter and mess. How you paint and decorate a room is down to personal taste, but don’t start pasting wallpaper or buying furniture until you think about things like storage, materials and how the room will endure years of use.

When it comes to a well-designed playroom, organization is key. Invest in plenty of storage solutions such as drawers, cupboards and boxes so that the shelves and floor space don’t end up looking cluttered and messy. Soft boxes and canvas bags are great ideas not only for keeping tidy but also because they are easily accessible for your child to reach their favorite toys and activities.

Setting up different zones for different activities within the playroom will help keep your child focused on what they are doing and make the area much easier to keep uncluttered. Areas could include a craft corner with a small desk and drawers full of resources that your child can easily access, a reading nook with cosy cushions and blankets, and a playhouse to encourage imaginative play.

While we often try to keep many rooms of our home looking subtle

and understated, a playroom is the perfect place to indulge in some whimsical decorating. Walls can be decorated with brightly colored paints and wallpapers or, if you prefer a more neutral base color, adorned with stencils to add a pop of color.

Nothing brings more joy to a parent than watching their children gleefully play and unleash their imagination. An accent chair can provide a great comfortable place for you to sit and watch playtime happen. It can also be covered in cushions and throws for extra cosiness. This will also make a great spot for story time or for your little one to curl up on if they need a rest

Tidying up can feel like a huge task after an exciting day of play, but it doesn’t have to be done entirely by you. Getting your children involved in tidying up will encourage responsibility and help with the sense of the room being their special space that they need to look after. Selecting baskets and boxes with bright, fun colors or even shapes like rocket ships and animals will make the process a lot more appealing to them.

Having plenty of soft furnishings such as cushions and blankets dotted around the room will bring a sense of comfort to your child and give

them a great sensory experience. A great way to counter children being reluctant to leave the play area for nap time is by setting up a cosy tent area in the corner of the room filled with soft blankets and pillows, as this will just feel like part of the fun experience for them.

The lighting in a playroom is key, and each area should be well-lit to allow children to enjoy playtime, reading, and other activities fully without straining their eyes or being at risk of hurting themselves. There may be times, such as story time, however, when we want a softer, more calming glow in the room and LED lights in the shape of objects, such as clouds and hot air balloons, are perfect to hang on the walls for this purpose.

The ideal area for playtime should inspire, stimulate, and spark creativity as well as be practical, comforting and fun. It is important when designing the area to think of your long-term goals, as children’s interests will be rapidly changing and evolving as they grow up. Investing in adaptable solutions is the key to creating a well-functioning and cost-effective playroom. u

COOKING WITH FIRE

M ulti-burner grills, barbecue smokers and flat-top griddles are practically standard backyard cooking accessories these days. Not as common are outdoor pizza ovens, of which there are many styles and manufacturers. Arriving later this season is a truly heavy-duty pizza oven, a beast of an addition to any backyard patio. Designed to sit on a brick base, the new Empava outdoor oven can cook with both liquified gas and fire wood, reaching temperatures over 1,000 degrees—meaning pizzas bake in a matter of seconds. It stands more than four feet high and nearly 40 inches wide, with a stainless-steel body and fire brick insulation. A mechanical thermometer allows users to monitor the interior temperature and each oven comes complete with a pizza spatula, tray, cleaning brush, pizza cutter and heat-resistant glove. Cooking at this high degree does come with a price, about $1,200. So, who wants a slice? u

BE PREPARED

Given the damaging impacts of hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton last year, you may want to prepare your landscape and trees for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. On second thought, you definitely want to prepare—and the sooner the better. “Best management practices include supporting soil health through appropriate fertilization, monitoring landscapes and trees for pests and disease, managing tree roots for health and structure,” says Alyssa Vinson, urban forestry agent for UF/ IFAS Extension. “All management that leads to healthier plants leads to a landscape that’s more resilient to disturbance. That doesn’t mean that a once-in-a-lifetime storm isn’t going to knock down a perfectly healthy tree, just that in normal circumstances a healthy tree is going to fare better.”

Home and business owners can take a few relatively easy steps to make sure their trees can withstand tropical storm- and hurricane-force winds and rain, Vinson adds. They include:

• Young trees need structural pruning more frequently until they are mature, when they may need little to no pruning.

• Look for dying, dead or broken branches.

• Keep an eye on trunks, especially for strange bulges, breaks, wounds or bark shedding.

• Check the ground around each tree and watch for areas of gradual sinking or rising in the soil—or mushrooms growing from the base of the tree, which can indicate a fungal infection. They are the fruiting body of an existing fungus.

“Well-established and mature trees are often very resilient,” Vinson continues. “If you monitor them for concerns and have them structurally pruned by a certified arborist, you will maximize their ability to withstand storms.” u

This Old House

Steamboats, Orange Groves & Gilded Age Splendor

BY JAX MAGGIE

Imagine stepping into a world where the fabulous people of the late 1800s and early 1900s gathered to enjoy the beauty of an untamed, and exotic place. What we call today Florida. Picture a beautiful mansion located on the banks of the St. Johns River that served as a luxurious winter retreat. It featured all the latest bells and whistles of the time (icehouse, elevator, electricity provided by natural gas, lightening protection system, and stables for riding).

Ready to visit? You’re in luck, DeBary Hall and Historical Site is only a day trip away and you don’t need to travel back in time to experience this Gilded Age treasure. The home represents old Florida opulence and extravagance and is located just north of Orlando, in the little town of (you guessed it) DeBary. Built in1871 by Frederick Debary, a wine merchant, steamboat line owner and, in his later days, orange grove entrepreneur, the home is said to have welcomed notable dignitaries such presidents Ulysses S. Grant, and Grover Cleveland, as well as the Astors, Goulds, Vanderbilts, and even the Prince of Wales. These lucky guests spent their days hunting, fishing on the St. Johns, swimming in nearby springs or in the home’s spring-fed pool—the very first of its kind in the state. Evenings were spent relaxing on the veranda with a cocktail followed by a formal dinner featuring “farm or hunting expedition-to-table” fare.

Today, DeBary Hall stands as the oldest intact building in southwest Volusia County. The 8,000-square-foot mansion, along with its stables and other structures, offers a fascinating glimpse into Florida’s past. For a small fee ($2-$5), visitors can explore the restored rooms, view historical exhibits, and even attend special events like summer tea parties, holiday events, story times, and National Trail Day celebrations that include family friendly activities, including a guided bike ride and a native plant walk.

The site is also the starting point of a Spring-to-Spring trail that links the site to Gemini Springs Park, Lake Monroe Park, and Blue Spring State Park to name a few. Old Florida at its finest and only a hop skip and a jump away. u

PALADAR CUBAN EATERY & BAKERY

Spice Islands

The heat, aromas and flavors of the Caribbean are flowing into Northeast Florida.

STORY AND RECIPE BY JEFFREY SPEAR

When visiting the Caribbean, you’ll find that, despite proximity and similarities such as sandy beaches, heat and humidity, each island that peppers this portion of the Atlantic Ocean has its own distinctive culture. It starts with the strains of lively traditional music—some reggae, some steel drums, some brass—all spilling out into the streets and letting you know Cuba is not Jamaica, Nassau is not San Juan. When it comes to cuisine, island foods are as unique as their individual heritages. Some sweet. Some spicy. Many with surprising ingredients and textures.

There’s also the allure of the treats in bakery windows, as well as countertop displays full of handheld specialties, hot and ready to go. While you can certainly hop on a plane and fly to Marsh Harbor, Freeport or Santo Domingo for a delicious dish or two, there’s no need. Jax has it covered..

Broadly speaking, the Caribbean refers to the island countries nestled directly below the southern tip of Florida’s peninsula in the Caribbean Sea. The largest of these islands are Cuba, Hispaniola (Haiti, Dominican Republic) and Jamaica, with more than 700 smaller islands and cays scattered across the Atlantic. As a result of European exploration and colonization that started in the early 1500s, the cultures on these islands became a fusion of indigenous Taino, African, European and Asian influences. The spices and flavors of East India and the Middle Eastern can be found, as well.

Considering their relative proximity (Cuba is less than 100 miles from Key West), it’s easy to understand how islanders found their way onto Florida’s shores. In Jacksonville, about two percent of the population identifies as West Indian or Afro-Caribbean American. That’s a small number. However, whether from Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti, Puerto Rico or other points of origin in the Caribbean, there are a growing number of restaurants around town that reflect a culinary heritage from this part of the world.

When looking at these cuisines, there are similarities—such as the frequent use of beans, rice and plantains. There are, however, noteworthy distinctions in terms of ingredients, flavors and variety of prepared dishes that deserve recognition.

One of the most widely used ingredients in Caribbean cooking is sofrito, sometimes referred to as sazon. Used in a manner similar to mirepoix in French cooking, it serves as a flavor foundation in a wide variety of dishes. Starting with sautéed garlic, onions and bell peppers, variations can also include tomatoes, cilantro, culantro, oregano, bay leaf and/or cumin. In Jamaica, while sofrito may be used, their culinary foundation relies more on Scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, thyme and allspice. Lacking flavor, they are not.

Many restaurants promote themselves simply as Caribbean, offering foods with varying culinary origins. Although they vary dramatically in terms of size, ambience, levels of service and quality of offerings, Cuban restaurants seem to be the most numerous across the First Coast.

There are three of note that serve Cuban cuisine with undeniable aplomb—Havana Jax Cafe and 1928 Cuban Bistro are based here in Jacksonville while Paladar operates

HAVANA JAX CAFE

in Butler Beach in St. Augustine. In all three cases, the decision to open their doors was a tribute to their heritage and the desire to bring high quality, authentic Cuban foods to their community.

“Although I’m originally from Nicaragua, I was introduced to Cuban cuisine when we moved to Miami 50 years ago,” says Silvia Pulido, owner of Havana Jax Cafe, a long-time fixture of the Jax restaurant scene. Savoring a treasured Cuban cookbook, along with guidance from her Cuban mother-in-law, she adds, “I learned to make Cuban dishes like any house in Havana. Today, when you come to our restaurant, you can taste the traditional recipes and indulge yourself in our home-made desserts.” A few of these traditional dishes includes ropa vieja (beef) bowl ($14), arroz con pollo, and vaca frita ($20).

Similarly, Rebecca Gonzales, founder of the string of local 1928 Cuban Bistros, says, “Cuban food is warm, comforting, and flavorful. It brings people together no matter where they’re from.” When asked about the motivation behind her restaurants, she says, “I wanted to bring that flavor and energy to North Florida and share a piece of where I come from.”

A few dishes of note include the Cuban tostada ($2.50) for breakfast (typically accompanied by a shot of sweetened Cuban

espresso), La Viejita, a sandwich made with ropa vieja ($14) along with an assortment of appetizers including croquetas, empanadas and yuca rellena. Not surprisingly, the Cuban sandwich ($13), made with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles & Dijon mustard on Cuban bread, is 1928’s most iconic offering.

While many of these classic dishes are also available at Paladar Cuban Eatery & Bakery, along with a large selection of freshly baked pastries, cakes and breads, you won’t want to miss the Frita Cubana ($13.50), a famous Cuban-style burger first created in Miami. According to Co-owner Isela Gonzalez, “This isn’t your everyday North Florida burger. Made with seasoned ground beef, pork and chorizo topped with crispy shoestring potatoes on a house-baked Cuban bun, it’s unlike anything you’ve ever had.” She’s not wrong. It’s delish.

In Puerto Rico, traditional dishes run the gamut from sweet to savory. One of the more popular offerings is tostones—twice fried and flattened green plantains—often served as a side dish or appetizer. Equally popular and a signature of the island is mofongo, made with mashed green plantains mixed with garlic, pork cracklins and spices, as well as empanadas, a pastry turnover, baked or fried, filled with beef, chicken, cheese or vegetables. The sweet versions, filled with guava or dulce de leche, are equally enjoyable.

There are a number of Caribbean restaurants in Jacksonville, some small and better suited for carry out, others considerably larger, better presented and comfortable for on-premises dining. They all, however, serve an array of exotic foods that are representative of the Caribbean. Included among the places we believe you'll enjoy are:

Other Puerto Rican classics include alcapurrias (yuca fritters stuffed with beef, chicken or seafood), pernil (slow-roasted pork shoulder), bacalaitos (cod fritters), pasteles (banana-leaf-wrapped packages similar to tamales), sancocho (a hearty meat and vegetable stew) and arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas).

Unfortunately, there are only a few restaurants serving truly authentic Puerto Rican cuisine in Jacksonville. Flavorikan, located a few blocks from EverBank Stadium, offers an extensive menu that includes mofongo with pulpo ($23), pernil encebollado ($14) and a tasty assortment of handheld snacks. There’s also Latin Creations, a fast casual restaurant in on St. Johns Bluff, serving many of the same dishes including Tostones con Mojito, Mofongo de la Isla con Pernil ($17) and much more.

Sailing west from Puerto Rico in the Caribbean takes us to Jamaica, an island with a

population that’s mostly of African descent, inspiring a cuisine that’s noticeably different from its neighbors. A few signature ingredients of the mountainous island are Scotch bonnet peppers (the spicy core of Jamaican cuisine), allspice (the backbone of jerk seasoning) and thyme (lending depth and fragrance). This style of cooking also makes flavorful use of ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, coconut milk, yams, sweet potatoes and cassava. Ackee, a pear-shaped fruit with a flavor aligned with scrambled eggs, was brought from West Africa in the 1800s. Today, it has become an essential part of Jamaican fare.

You can find a wonderful selection of Jamaican dishes at Eva’s Jamaican Kitchen

According to restaurant owner Nick Ellis, “My mom and I realized that Jamaican foods were not available in Jacksonville. We shared a passion for cooking and had lots of family recipes to get us started.” When asked if there are any dishes not to be missed, he says, “You definitely need to try our akee and

saltfish ($22). It’s the national dish of Jamaica, very healthy and very tasty.”

Another Caribbean island with limited culinary representation in Jacksonville is Haiti. With dishes emphasizing the use of rice, corn, millet, yams and beans, there is a resemblance to foods from Jamaica, Cuba and Puerto Rico. For example, Riz et pois (rice and beans) is frequently served at lunchtime while fried pork (griot), considered Haiti’s national dish, is popular later in the day. In addition, Haitian puff pastries with meat fillings, known as pate (pronounced patty, not to be confused with Jamaican patties), are also dining staples.

In Jacksonville, Beignets Caribbean Cafe is a haven for diners seeking an authentic Haitian experience. Whether enjoyed in their modestly appointed dining room or ordered in advance for carry-out, dishes such as mixed vegetables with beef ($15), oxtail ($19), griot, and fried goat ($19) along with many other Caribbean favorites, are menu standouts. u

LET'S COOK!

If you're looking to prepare Caribbean foods at home, Rowe’s IGA operates seven locations in and around Jacksonville and maintains an excellent selection of island staples. Their largest store, located on the corner of Blanding Boulevard and 103rd Street, is impressive. While you can find much of what you'll need at more traditional supermarkets, the selections at Rowe's are considerably larger.

Shrimp Empanadas

Knowing that empanadas are ubiquitous throughout the Caribbean, this recipe for shrimp empanadas is relatively easy to make, a touch spicy and an enjoyable handheld treat.

INGREDIENTS

FILLING

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup onion, finely chopped

2 teaspoons garlic, minced

1 1/2 lb. tomatoes, chopped

2 bay leaves

1 lb. shrimp, cut into 1/4-inch pieces

2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños, finely chopped

1 tablespoon pickled jalapeño juice

1 tablespoon green olives, finely chopped

1 teaspoon capers, finely chopped

salt & pepper, to taste

PASTRY

1 cup butter

6 oz. cream cheese

2 cups flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 egg, beaten (for wash)

1 tablespoon water (for wash)

DIRECTIONS

1. To make the filling, pour the olive oil into the bottom of a large sauté pan.

2. Add the onions and garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes and bay leaves and continue cooking until just dry. Add the shrimp, jalapeños, olives and capers and reduce until just dry once again. Transfer the shrimp filling to a bowl, set aside, and allow to cool.

3. To make the pastry, place the butter and cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat together until thoroughly incorporated.

4. Mix in the flour and salt, a little at a time, kneading the ingredients together until a dough is formed. Split the dough into two balls, wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

5. In a small bowl, beat the egg and water together and set aside.

6. To assemble, start by rolling out the dough, making it thin enough to handle without breaking. Using a 4-inch circular cookie cutter (or an empty can), cut the dough into circles.

7. Place a tablespoon of filling on one half of the dough circle, brush the edges with egg wash, then fold the other half of dough over top to create a half circle filled pastry. Press the edges together with the tip of a fork to ensure a tight seal.

8. Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm. Makes 30 empanadas.

1928 CUBAN BISTRO

hot seats

Jacksonville Magazine offers a select list of area restaurants as a service to its readers. The directory does not include every restaurant in town. It does, however, feature many of the magazine’s Top 50 choices of must-try eateries, as well as a sampling of other notable Northeast Florida dining establishments. Suggestions are welcome. Please contact us at mail@jacksonvillemag.com.

Alhambra Theatre & Dining

Alhambra serves up dinner and a show inside its performance hall. Formerly a buffet service, the Alhambra is becoming known as much for its culinary experience as it is for its Broadway-caliber productions. The nation’s oldest continuous-

ly operating dinner theater showcases famous plays such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, June 26-August 17, and Come From Away, August 28-October 5. 12000 Beach Blvd., Southside (641-1212; alhambrajax.com). L, D, SB, $$$.

Al’s Pizza

This home-grown string of pizza joints offers a wide selection of appetizers and New York-style pizza, alongside traditional Italian dishes, Al’s menu includes unexpected items like mussels in wine and garlic butter sauce to satisfy the adventurous foodies out there. They also offer delivery for those in the area of their restaurants. Four locations including 8060 Philips Hwy., Southside (731-4300; alspizza.com), L, D, $.

GUIDE to the GUIDE:

B–Breakfast; L–Lunch; D–Dinner; SB–Sunday Brunch

$–$10 or less; $$–$11 to $20; $$$–$21 to $30; $$$$–$31 or above

These $ categories are based on the average cost of a dinner entrée excluding drinks, desserts and/or gratuities.

NOTE: Some restaurant entrée prices do not include à la carte sides or salad. All phone numbers are in the (904) area code. Cafeterias, fast food joints and primarily take-out restaurants are not eligible for inclusion.

Flying Iguana

Aqua Grill

Aqua Grill has a contemporary, eclectic menu with a coastal flair made from local ingredients. The Ponte Vedra eatery is known for its top-ofthe line service and has been featured on both Jax Mag’s Top 50 Restaurants and Best in Jax lists for many years. 395 Front St., Ponte Vedra Beach (285-3017; aquagrill.net). L, D, $$$.

Argyle

Located inside TPC Sawgrass and adjacent to The Yards pickleball and golf club, the menu features jumbo scallops, 14oz. ribeye and PEI mussels. 254 Alta Mar Dr., Ponte Vedra Beach (395-3114; argylepub.com). L, D, SB

bb’s Restaurant & Bar

Bb’s specializes in New American fare and treats, giving comfort food an upscale presentation. Menu items include yellowfin tuna tartare and ancho-spiced rotisserie turkey. They also boast an international cheese selection and top-notch desserts. 1019 Hendricks Ave., San Marco (3060100; bbsrestaurant.com). L, D, SB, $$.

The Bearded Pig

A pair of casual barbecue spots (complete with an oversized chalkboard wall for kids and plenty of TVs) serves turkey, chicken, brisket, pulled pork and the like, counter-style. Owners Chad Munsey and Michael Schmidt both have fine dining backgrounds, so even the standard fare is a bit more grown up than what you might expect at a “Q” joint. And though it’s a meat-fest, there’s truly something for everyone: all of the sides (slaw, collards, mac-n-cheese) are vegetarian. 1224 Kings Ave., San Marco (619-2247); thebearded pigbbq.com. L, D $$.

Biscottis

This neighborhood landmark for more than two decades specializes in innovative updates on old favorites, like meatloaf served with apricot marinara sauce and duck confit pizza (dinner specials change daily). The dessert case is legendary. Casual. 3556 St. Johns Ave., Avondale (387-2060; biscottis.net). B, L, D, SB, $$.

Blue Bamboo

This restaurant serves hip, Asian cuisine with a wine lounge and patio dining. Menu items include miso-marinated salmon, Cantonese orange duck, Ahi tuna salad and Mandarin orange cake. 10110 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin (646-1478; bluebamboojacksonville.com). L, D, $$.

Blue Orchid

Blue Orchid Thai serves authentic Asian fare made with traditional ingredients like Thai basil, palm sugar, and kaffir lime leaves. Their pad Thai and dynamite chicken are house favorites. 13475 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville (723-1300; blueorchid. menu). L, D, $$.

Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q

Meat is the draw at Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q, which has been pit-smoking everything from turkey to pork since 1949. Try the Slawpy Pig, a heaping pile of pulled pork topped with coleslaw and served with sides such as fried corn on the cob, collard greens, or Brunswick stew. Multiple locations (880-8310; bonosbarbq.com). L, D, $.

Caffé Andiamo

A copper pizza oven highlights this stylish eatery specializing in frutti di mare, pollo paisano, vongole Positano, and homemade Italian sausage. Caffe Andiamo complements their Italian fare with a vast wine selection and

exudes a modern and relaxing vibe. 225 Village Main St., Ponte Vedra Beach (280-2299; caffeandiamo-pvb.com). L, D, $$.

Casa Reina Taqueria & Tequila

Located just steps from the historic Bridge of Lions in the heart of Downtown St. Augustine, the new upscale Mexican/Florida Coastal eaterie speciallizes in street tacos and enchiladas, as well as short rib, chiles rellenos and tequila lime grouper. Nearly 100 tequilas on offer. 1 Anderson Cir., St. Augustine (2953847; casareinastaug.com). L, D, $$.

ChopHouse Thirteen

Formerly The Tree Steakhouse, this restaurant offers a sleek, chic dining room. Along with their grilled steaks of 100% Angus beef, they also serve seafood and feature a conditioned wine room with ample variety. 11362 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin (262-0006; chophouse13.com). L,D, $$$.

City Grille &

Raw Bar

Welcome arrival to the San Marco area dining scene featuring an upscale setting and a menu laden with seafood, steak and seasonal specialties, as well as an extensive wine list with labels from around the globe. 1314 Prudential Dr., Southbank (398-8989, citygrillerawbar.com). L, D, $$

Coastal Wine & Tapas

A standout in Nocatee’s growing collection of dining spots and shops, the interior is dressed in warm woods, hightop tables, the most breathtaking chandelier you've ever seen, and more bottles of reds, whites and sparkling wines than one could count. New menu additions include Marcona Almond Crusted Goat Cheese & Fig Spread, Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce, and Signature Coastal Angus Beef Sliders. Wines sold by the glass, bottle and three-tasting flights. 641 Crosswater Pkwy., Suite B, Nocatee Town Center (395-3520, coastalwinemarket.com). D, $$.

Coop 303

Coop 303 is known for its regional cuisine featuring hot honey-glazed salmon, chicken and waffles and pulled pork sliders. But the Beaches Town Center restaurant also features local seafood dishes, and is home to the eight-piece fried chicken basket. Coop also has plenty of spots to hang out and sip their signature cocktails: community tables; alcove booths; a front porch; a rooftop

garden; and an upstairs parlor. 303 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (372-4507; coop303.com). L, D, SB, $$.

Cordova, A Coastal Chophouse & Bar

Situated in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, Cordova is the signature restaurant of the Casa Monica Resort and Spa. An extensive menu covers much culinary territory, with an emphasis on seafood and local ingredients. Dinner starters include items such as Florida little neck clams and Georgia peach salad. Entrées are highlighted by crab-crusted red snapper, grilled beef tenderloin, and peppercorn-crusted short ribs. Save room for the spiced chocolate cake. Be sure to enjoy cocktails in the Cobalt Lounge. Private dining room available. 95 Cordova St., St. Augustine (819-6018, KesslerCollection.com/costabrava-restaurant). B, L, D, $$.

Cowford Chophouse

Spread over three levels in a restored building near the foot of the Main Street Bridge, Cowford is an upscale restaurant/rooftop bar combo that specializes in hand-cut steaks and seafood. The menu is flush with items such as tuna tartare, roasted bone marrow and foie gras. A raw bar serves oysters, shrimp cocktail and caviar. For the main course, diners choose between dishes such as bone-in ribeyes and Maine lobster. 101 E. Bay St., Downtown (862-6464). D, $$$$.

Cruisers Grill

For more than 20 years, beachgoers have looked to Cruisers Grill for their signature burger and cheese fries served with ranch dressing. Grilled chicken, country fried steak, turkey and melted Swiss—the sandwich lineup is tops. They offer all the classics, plus newer options like a house-made fried bologna sandwich. 319 23rd Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach (270-0356). L, D, $.

Culhane’s Irish Pubs & Restaurants

Straight from Limerick, Ireland, the four sisters who operate the city’s two Culhane’s pubs draw legions of regulars with classics such as Scotch Eggs and Guinness Beef Stew. Bangers N’ Mash, Corned Beef N’ Cabbage, Shepherd’s Pie, Irish Cheese-Crusted Cod—the flavors of the Emerald Isle live here. Full bar. 967 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (249-9595); 9720 Deer Lake Ct., Southside (619-3177), culhanesirishpub.com. L, D, SB, $$

Continued on page 115

Culhane's Irish Pub & Restaurant

Diving In

Too few local eateries have enjoyed the "Triple D" treatment.

The uber popular Food Network show Diners, Drive-ins and Dives and its spiky-haired host/chef Guy Fieri have visited and filmed at more than 1,000 restaurants across the country, doing so over 42 seasons dating back to 2007. During that time, Florida restaurants have been the subject of many Triple D segments. In fact, the show describes our home state as “more than just beaches and theme parks—it's a road trip paradise bursting with flavor. This sunny state has a deep food history rooted in Caribbean, Cuban, and Southern traditions, now fused into a one-of-a-kind culinary experience.”

Unfortunately, the First Coast hasn’t received much love from Fieri and his band of traveling foodies. Only a small handful of local eateries have been highlighted on the show, and not a one in Amelia Island or St. Augustine. Looking through the Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives archives, we found four Jax eateries that made the cut—13 Gypsies, Metro Diner, Culhane’s Irish Pub and Singleton’s Seafood Shack. All four are still operating and worthy of recognition.

So, Guy, how about a return visit to Northeast Florida to see what you’ve been missing of late?

I f you've ever come across a name like 13 Gypsies , you're bound to remember it— and the food is sure to stick in your mind just as long. This charming, minimalist eatery is a hidden gem for anyone craving traditional Spanish flavors prepared with a modern twist. 13 Gypsies brings the taste of Spain to Florida with a menu that is both inventive and packed with the classics you'll crave long after your visit. From the moment you step inside, the warmth and welcoming atmosphere let you know that you're in for something special.

What truly sets 13 Gypsies apart from the rest is its menu, which showcases a combination of classical Spanish techniques and bold, flavorful ingredients. The Roman-style gnocchi is one of the standout dishes—a perfect blend of soft, pillowy gnocchi paired with rich, savory flavors. But it doesn't stop there. The Spanish chorizo with honey sau-

téed pears is another hit, where the spiciness of the chorizo balances beautifully with the sweetness of the pears, creating a truly unforgettable dish. 887 Stockton St., Riverside • Aired on May 10, 2010

The first Metro Diner opened its doors in 1992. What started as a local gem with a passion for feel-good food has now grown into a beloved chain with dozens of locations across the country. But despite the expansion, they’ve never lost that welcoming, small-town diner vibe. Walk into any Metro Diner, and you’ll be greeted like an old friend—no pretensions, no rush, and no rules. Just come as you are and prepare to eat well.

Metro Diner isn’t afraid to take risks on the menu—and somehow, every one of those risks pays off. Sure, they offer all the American diner staples like French toast, scrambled eggs, and homestyle meatloaf, but what makes this place a must-visit is how they put their own unexpected spin on things. Take their "Yo Halla on the Square" for example—a dish that turns French toast into something

Metro Diner's Chicken & Waffles

magical by stuffing it with bananas, brown sugar, cream cheese, and hazelnut syrup. One bite, and you’ll be converted. It’s rich, sweet, and indulgent in the best possible way. Not a sweet tooth? No problem. The Iron City Meatloaf brings serious savory satisfaction, especially when you order it with a side of mashed potatoes and green beans. 3302 Hendricks Ave., San Marco • Aired on September 20, 2010

What makes Singleton's Seafood Shack special isn't just the food—though we'll get to that delicious part in a second—it's the experience. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by the rustic, cozy decor that truly earns it the “shack” name—in the most endearing way. Think weathered wood, nautical décor, and salty air drifting through open windows. Located right on the water, this place offers up unbeatable views alongside unbeatable food. It's the kind of dining spot that feels like a secret, even though locals will tell you it's the worst-kept one in town (because it's just that good).

Now let's talk about the seafood, which is the real star of the show. If you love shrimp, you're in the right place. Singleton's does it all—Cajun fried, steamed, grilled, and everything in between. Their shrimp is caught fresh daily, perfectly seasoned, and cooked to order. Every bite bursts with that briny, ocean-kissed flavor that only comes from truly fresh seafood. Singleton's also features a full lineup of seafood staples, including

snow crab legs, oysters on the half shell, pan-seared scallops, and clam strips. If it swims and tastes amazing with a squeeze of lemon, you'll probably find it on their menu.

4728 Ocean St., Atlantic Beach • Aired on April 27, 2010

If you're in the hunt for some traditional Irish foods and drink, especially the drinks, while in Jax Culhane’s Irish Pub is tops, says chef Fieri. Run by the Culhane sisters, after whom the bar is named, the establishment checks all the Irish pub boxes, from music to menu. After all, it wouldn't be a proper Irish hub, even if it's based in Atlantic Beach, without amazing entertainment. These folks keep it

Small Bites

fun with live music nights that truly get the entire place going.

You can experience all the Irish classics here as they carry all the traditional eats. We also appreciate that while they stay true to classics, they also present their own unique twists that keep traditional ingredients with new concepts popping up now and again. Rest assured that this is the spot for shepherd’s pie, corned beef and cabbage, fish and chips, and Dingle fish pie. 967 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach • Aired on June 7, 2010 u

Source: DinersDriveinsDivesLocations.com

Something of a secret in Downtown, the River Breeze Pool Bar atop the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront hotel is open to the public, as well as hotel guests, 11 AM-6 PM. Located on the 19th floor rooftop level, the bar serves local craft beer (Bold City, Veteran’s United, Intuition) and tasty summertime signature cocktails such as the Mangos on Main Street, a potent mix of house-made sangria, Don Julio reposado, fresh lime and mango puree, and the frozen Riverside Raspberry made with Brackish Elderflower Vodka, orange and lime juices and raspberry puree. The panoramic views of the city and St. Johns are pretty nice, too.

Described as an underwater Easter egg hunt, scalloping is fun and easy for beginners. Along Florida’s Gulf Coast, scalloping season opens July 1. If you’ve never done it, there’s not much to it. Simply float over shallow seagrass beds–typically just 3 to 6 feet deep–and scan for the prized bi-valve mollusk nestled in the grass. Their fan-shaped shells are easy to spot but they are quick to flutter away. Armed with snorkel gear and a mesh bag, swimmers simply scoop up their catch and enjoy the thrill of harvesting their own seafood. Once back at the dock, you may clean them yourself (or have them cleaned for a fee) and cook them for a delicious “dockto-dish” dinner. Gulf-side towns like Crystal River offer plenty of boat charter options, most of which provide all the gear one needs to take the plunge. Scallop season ends in late September.

Two of Northeast Florida’s top oceanside resorts are celebrating the 4th of July in delicious style. The Ponte Vedra Inn & Club and its sister property, The Lodge & Club, host a collection of special weekend events. It starts early on Friday with the Sunrise Breakfast & Bagpipes, 6:30-10 AM, and is followed by an evening Independence Day Cookout, 5-8 PM, with live music and a menu of all-American favorites ($60). Over at the Lodge, guests can enjoy family crafts, a “dive-in” movie, music, fireside s’mores (pictured at left) and $2 Sno Cones. Swimming in the ocean and hunting shark teeth in the sand are free of charge. u

Guy Fieri with the Culhane sisters

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WHERE'S THE BEEF?

There are nearly 600 Longhorn Steakhouse restaurants located across the country. And one of the premier grillers in the national beef empire can be found in the kitchen of its St. Augustine locale. In May, St. Augustine’s own Noel Sherrill brought the heat and took home the $5,000 third place prize in the finals of Longhorn’s eighth annual Steak Masters Series. The nationwide contest starts with thousands of franchise grill masters, only seven of which make the cut to vie for a $15,000 grand prize at a one-day grill-off in Orlando. His top grilling tip? “Pick the right cut for the applied temperature.” Sage advice, Noel. Pass the salt and pepper, please. u

LAW & ORDER

Across the country, tech-savvy scalpers and third-party platforms have been using bots to grab reservations at in-demand restaurants, then reselling them online or via social media. The practice has led to customer frustration as legitimate guests are blocked from making direct reservations or being duped into paying for something that should be free. “Black-market reservation platforms are hijacking the dining experience in Florida,” says Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association president Carol Dover. “These unauthorized actors add no value, they simply inflate costs, damage reputations, and leave restaurants with empty tables, unpaid servers and frustrated guests.” In an effort to stop the practice, a piece of legislation, HB 543, recently was passed and signed into law in Florida. The new law, which takes effect July 1, makes it illegal to sell restaurant reservations with the restaurant’s explicit consent. Violations can result in fines of $1,000 per day.  u

Howdy, Partner

Saddle up, partners. The Cummer Museum hosts Cowboy Cocktails: Recipes Inspired by the American West, an evening when guests step back in time and sip their way through history with a Western-themed cocktail workshop. In partnership with local distillery Burlock & Barrel, the event dives into the spirits and libations that fueled America’s rugged frontier of the 1800s. Using authentic techniques and top-shelf spirits, the workshop, set for July 1, 7 PM, at the museum, blends hands-on mixology, history, storytelling and a pinch of Jacksonville flair for a night of libations and laughter. Tickets are $50 and $70. u

Shell, Yeah!

Think you have what it takes to be an oyster farmer? Well, if you live along the St. Johns north of the Arlington River and have a dock, you are exactly who the St. Johns Riverkeeper (SJRK) is looking for. The Riverkeeper organization has partnered with groups such as the Jacksonville University Marine Science Institute to launch the Vertical Oyster Garden  program. These underwater “gardens” consist of recycled oyster shells strung together on wires that hang down from docks along the river, thus creating habitats for new oysters, as well as other species of aquatic organisms. “Oysters are a popular seafood item, but they are also really good and cleaning up our waterways. One oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water per day,” says Trey Ford, strategic partnerships and programming manager for the SJRK. “We’re really excited to get riverfront property owners involved in helping us create more habitat for oysters to grow.” Unfortunately, oyster reefs are among the planet’s most imperiled marine habitats, with more than 85% of natural reefs lost due to over harvesting, disease and pollution. Riverfront homeowners can sign up to request a “VOG” to install on their docks at the Riverkeeper’s website. u

David's

A fine-dining landmark in Fernandina Beach for some 20 years, this chef-driven eatery features an extensive wine and cocktail list, Wagyu beef, Australian rack of lamb, pan-seared Dover sole and seafood gnocchi bouillabaisse in coconut broth. 802 Ash St., Amelia Island (310-6049, ameliaislanddavids.com) D, $$$

Eleven South Bistro

This upscale eatery features an extensive wine list, mesquite wood grill and outdoor patio. Seafood martini, lobster mac and cheese, miso-glazed Chilean sea bass and mesquite-grilled certified Angus beef tenderloin highlight the menu. 216 11th Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach (241-1112;elevensouth. com). L, D, $$$$.

The Fish Company

With a crowded raw bar and a wide variety of locally caught seafood, The Fish Co. offers a little something for everyone. Chef Bill Pinner’s menu combines signature items like fried Mayport shrimp with favorite small plate dishes, changing weekly. The restaurant offers several specials throughout the week. 725-12 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (246-0123; thefishcojax.com). L, D. $$$.

Flying Iguana Taqueria & Tequila Bar

As a tequila bar and grill located in Neptune Beach (and now in Avondale), the Flying Iguana represents one of the liveliest dining options in Duval. Specializing in Latin-American cuisine and expansive cocktail possibilities, the restaurant also hosts live music and has only one rule: Good Vibes Only. 207 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach (853-5680, flyingiguana.com); Iguana on Park, 3638 Park St., Avondale (834-8383, iguanaonpark.com). L, D, SB, $$

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille

There are a handful of Harry’s peppered around Florida, including a waterfront location in St. Augustine across from the Bridge of Lions. The eatery brings Louisiana flavor to the regional seafood scene, serving up Cajun and Creole dishes such as Frenchbaked scallops, blackened redfish and crawfish étouffée. 46 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine (824-7765; hookedonharrys. com). L, D, $$.

JJ’s Liberty Bistro

Open since 1994, JJ’s Liberty Bistro is a family-run establishment offering one of the largest selections of wine in Jacksonville. The restaurant hosts frequent wine dinners featuring some of the largest wine producers around the world, including Chateau L’Angelus, Veuve Clicquot, and Plumpjack. You’ll find hundreds of different bottles in the retail store, as well as the finest cheeses, caviars, and homemade desserts. Stop by the ice cream and chocolate/macaron shop located just next door. 330 A1A N., Suite 209, Ponte Vedra (273-7980; jjbistro. com/ponte-vedra). L, D, $$$.

Le Petit Paris Café

A little slice of France in the River City, the chef-owned establishment specializes in toasted croissants, quiches and baguette

sandwiches. Le Parisien is a classic French hand-held with ham, Swiss and salted butter. The Le Flore salad is a must-try with smoked salmon, tzatiziki cream, cucumber, sun-dried tomatoes, dill and mixed greens. Sweets include fresh pastries, macarons and pound cakes. Don’t overlook the espresso or cappuccino. Market offers imported foods, condiments and beverages. Pet-friendly patio. 9965 San Jose Blvd., Suite 46, San Jose (512-7777, lepetitparis jax. com). B, L, $.

Matthew’s Restaurant

A fine-dining experience in historic San Marco. The menu is comprised of French and Mediterranean dishes crafted by Chef Alex Yim and also possesses a vast wine selection. Menu items include venison carpaccio, Maine diver scallops, and Osetra caviar. 2107 Hendricks Ave., San Marco (3969922; matthewsrestaurant.com). D, $$$$.

Restaurant Medure

This restaurant features high-end favorites like escargot and caviar, while also making room for classics like meatloaf. Their menu features global cuisine with a local influence, ranging from handcrafted pasta to duck leg confit poutine. 818 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach (543-3797; restaurantmedure.com). D, $$$.

Mellow Mushroom

With more than 200 locations around the country, Mellow Mushroom has garnered a loyal following for its stone-baked pizza flavor combinations and for offering up craft beer, premium imports and local favorites. Menu features baked chicken wings, spinach artichoke dip and a dozen house speciality pizzas. Multiple area locations: Avondale, Fleming Island, Southside, River City, Jacksonville Beach (mellowmushroom.com). L, D, $$.

Mezza Luna Ristorante

Located in the heart of the Beaches Town Center, this long-time neighborhood favorite offers seating on their covered patio, formal dining room, and lounge that often hosts live music. The lengthy dinner menu includes Mediterranean favorites like linguine and clams, pan-seared bronzino and wood-fired pizzas. 110 1st St., Neptune Beach (249-5573; mezzalunajax.com). D, $$$.

Midtown Table

A culinary concept from the Medure Brothers, this Gate Parkway eatery specializes in all-things Italian. That means appetizers run the gamut from seasonal burrata to meatballs with house-made bread. Entrées include fresh pastas, Neapolitan pizza, and heartier fare (like pork marsala and salt-baked zucchini). 5016 Gate Pkwy., Jacksonville (503.4122; midtowntable.medurebrothers.com). L, D, $$.

Mojo Bar-B-Que

This regional chain showcases Southern barbecue styles like Texas and North Carolina, including everything from burnt ends to pulled pork. Their restaurants celebrate blues, with their Avondale location boasting one of the city’s most expansive whis

Continued on page 119

Dinner Date

Craft cocktails, Polynesian dancers, two whole-roasted pigs, island vibes and more swept patrons away at the April 27 BMF North Florida Cocktail Competition and Luau Party at Flask & Cannon in St. Augustine. Some of the top bartenders from the region gathered to shake and stir their way to glory in the championship showdown. Oh, and there were island-style games, a fire knife performance, raffles and a Tiki Oasis. Proceeds benefitted V for Victory, an initiative supporting First Coast families affected by cancer. u

Cooking competitions are wildly popular on broadcast TV and streaming services. One of the most popular hits the road this summer and fall for a series of 31 live events across the country, including a stop in Northeast Florida. MasterChef AllStars Live! takes the stage October 1 at the Thrasher-Horne Center in Orange Park. The family-friendly show features head-to-head cooking demonstrations, and some audience members will have the chance to flex their culinary muscles by helping the chefs create and taste-test their dishes. Tickets start at $29 and climb to $139 for the VIP Experience, which includes premium seats, Q&A sessions, signed show posters and photos. u

Who's Hungry?

Apparently, cruisers departing from Jax. Carnival Cruise Line will sail nearly 55,000 passengers from Jacksonville between Memorial Day and Labor Day. In all, about 2 million guests will board Carnival's 29 ships this summer. While sailing, these cruisers will consume nearly 3 million burgers at the onboard Guy’s Burger Joints (named for Food Network star chef Guy Fieri), 13 million servings of ice cream and 2.4 million slices of pizza. The ships’ bars and restaurants will pour 1.3 million gl asses of wine, 4.4 million beers and 6.5 million sodas over the three-month summer season. On July 19, the cruise line officially opens its new private Caribbean island, Celebration Key. No doubt, many more burgers, pina coladas and beers will be served to passengers here.

In the Panhandle town of Santa Rosa Beach, Redd’s Pub is a bonafide local landmark, a watering hole that attracts standing-room-only crowds with a combination of live music, funky interior decor and tasty eats. This spring, Redd’s launched the first of its “celebrity sandwiches,” a unique sandwich inspired by the favorite foods of iconic names and faces. The first was the “Elton John,” featuring candied bacon tucked between raisin toast, layered with melted Swiss and Muenster cheese, grilled pear and a drizzle of hot honey—all a nod to the Rocket Man’s flamboyant style. “From Elton’s sweet and spicy rockstar vibes to Liberace’s over-the-top flair, these sandwiches are a hit,” says owner Redd herself, “especially when you enjoy them with a song from our singing bartender.” Redd takes the stage Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays at 6:30 PM. A new celebrity sandwich is unveiled every Tuesday. u

HEART & SOUL

Just yards from the runway at St. Simons Island airport rests a tiny barbecue joint that many believe worthy of flying to just for a taste of its oak-smoked turkey, pork, chicken, sausage and beef brisket. St. Simons has a tony reputation as a Georgia vacation destination, yet Southern Soul Barbecue is a blocky, one-room establishment that looks as if a strong breeze might push her down. Were that to happen, no doubt the customers snaking out the doors at lunchtime would volunteer to help hold her up. The menu includes bbq staples such as the pulled pork sandwich ($8), pimento cheese sandwich ($9.50) and 1/2-slab of ribs with two sides ($22). BBQ beans, fried okra, hushpuppies, mac and cheese, collard greens—sides are Southern classics ($4). The “Barbecuban” sandwich is a standout with pulled pork, pickles, yellow mustard and Cuban bread that’s pressed and toasted ($13). Paired with a strawberry lemonade margarita, it makes for a mini-vacation all its own. Seating is limited to a few small tables and stools at the counter inside and a half-dozen tables outside under a tin awning. u

key selections and their Jacksonville Beach location featuring live music. 1607 University Blvd. W., Lakewood (732-7200, mojobbq.com); 1500 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach (247-6636); 1810 Town Center Blvd., Fleming Island (264-0636); 3572 St. Johns Ave., Avondale (381-6670); 5 Cordova St., St. Augustine (342-5264). L, D, $$.

Mossfire Grill

A fixture near 5 Points for two decades, Mossfire serves Southwestern cuisine with a sophisticated flair. Menu classics include the chicken empanadas, ancho honey glazed salmon, and crab cakes topped with chipotle lime mayo. Try the gouda cheese quesadilla and the Mexican street corn. 1537 Margaret St., Riverside (355-4434; mossfire.com). L, D, $$.

Nineteen

Located inside the clubhouse at TPC Sawgrass, this fine-dining restaurant matches the high quality you would expect for a place that hosts The Players Championship. The menu is dominated by seafood and local fare, like lime pepper-crusted tuna and ribeye steak. The broad back patio overlooks the golf course. Sawgrass Clubhouse, Ponte Vedra Beach (2733238; tpcsawgrass.com). B, L, D, $$.

O-Ku Sushi

O-Ku offers upscale Japanese cuisine, a rooftop bar and patio and seafood from fish markets in Tokyo, Hawaii and here locally. Check out the chef specialties and small plates like tuna crudo, Agedashi tofu and O-Ku rock shrimp or just go straight for the rolls including Neptune’s Beard (shrimp tempura, avocado, spicy tuna, salmon, spicy aioli, sweet soy, chive) and the Firecracker (crispy panko fried roll with spicy salmon, avocado, cucumber, goat cheese mousse, sweet soy). 502 1st St. N., Jacksonville Beach (694-2770, o-kusushi. com). D, $$$.

Restaurant Orsay

An upscale French bistro with local, Southern flavor, meals at Restaurant Orsay are the epitome of a high-end dining experience. The chef-owned restaurant offers an extensive drink selection and some of the best oysters in the city, having won Best in Jax multiple times. 3630 Park St., Avondale (381-0909; restaurantorsay. com). D, SB, $$$$.

Philly’s Finest

When you call yourself Philly’s Finest, you better bring the Cheesesteak magic. For the love of

Pat’s and Geno’s, they’ve been doing just that for two decades at the Jax Beach sandwich institution. American, mozzarella, and provolone cheeses, sautéed onions, mushrooms, pickles, sweet peppers, black olives, Cheese Whiz—each order can be customized to one’s liking for about $15. Order a side of the Old Bay fries, too. 1527 3rd St. N., Jacksonville Beach (241-7188, phillys-finest.com). L, D, $$.

Poppy’s Italiano

Family-owned establishment serving Italian comfort foods since 2107, Poppy’s serves lunch and dinner daily featuring toasted cheese ravioli, Caesar salads, baked penne pasta, chicken piccata and seafood risotto. Among its specialty pasta are spaghetti carbonara with prosciutto, peas and onions sautéed and tossed in cream sauce, and linguini primavera with seasonal vegetable. 832 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach (904273-7272); 104 Ashourian Ave., St. Augustine (904679-3657, poppysitaliano.net). L, D, $$.

Poe’s

Tavern

Located at the end of Atlantic Blvd. in the heart of the Beaches lies a gourmet burger joint where you can experience an ample beer selection and the cool breeze of the ocean from their outside seating area. Each menu item is named after one of Edgar Allan Poe’s famous stories, including the Tell-Tale Heart, a half-pound bacon and cheddar burger topped off with a fried egg. 363 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (241-7637; poestavern.com). L,D, $.

River & Post

Rooftop bars are popping up all over Northeast Florida. Arguably one of the best can be enjoyed at River & Post. The restaurant specializes in upscale American fare—seared hanger steak, shrimp and grits, grilled salmon almondine. Small plates, charcuterie, sushi rolls and flatbreads are available on the rooftop. 1000 Riverside Ave., Riverside (575-2366; riverandpostjax.com). L, D, SB, $$$.

RP’s Fine Food & Drink

RP’s serves local fish and fresh produce inside a casual beach setting. The menu features items such as conch fritters, a crab cake BLT, and Shrimp 308—sautéed local shrimp doused in spicy Cajun butter over rice with hushpuppies. 1183 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach (853-5094; rpsjaxbeach.com). B, L, D, SB, $$.

Rue Saint-Marc

Led by executive chef Scott Alters, Rue SaintMarc strikes a balance between sophistication and comfort by serving decadent menu items like halibut meunière while maintaining exceptional service and a quaint atmosphere, all just steps from the heart of San Marco Square. 2103 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (619-0861; ruesaintmarc.com). B, L, D, SB, $$.

Safe Harbor Seafood

Fresh, locally caught seafood is the calling card for Safe Harbor. That’s not surprising, as customers can practically see the shrimp boats of Mayport from the restaurant’s front door. It’s easy to see why hungry diners have been drifting here for years. Sure, the menu is laden with clams, oysters, crab cakes and other seafood standards, but sometimes a basket of fried shrimp, slaw, fries and hush puppies is a little slice of heaven. 4378 Ocean St., Mayport (246 4911, safeharbor-seafood.com). L, D, $$.

Continued on page 121

Coop 303 & The Living Room

Fish Tacos with Pico de Gallo and Salsa Macha

BY CHEF EDDY ESCRIBA, OAXACA CLUB | PHOTO BY ANDY VARNES

Inspired by travels throughout Mexico and the country’s colorful, regionally distinct flavors, Oaxaca Club restaurant in Jax Beach pays homage to the city of Oaxaca (pronounced wah-hah-kah), located in Southwest Mexico. The menu is laden with innovative tacos, savory moles, warm tamales, mezcal-based libations and fresh seafood dishes. Here, chef and partner Eddy Escriba shares his recipe for a beerbattered fish taco topped with pico de gallo and a peppery, nutty salsa.

INGREDIENTS

For the Fish

1 pound Cobia or any other firm flesh fish

1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour divided

1 can Dos XX Amber beer

1 pack of 6-inch flour tortillas

2 limes for garnish

Salt and pepper to taste

Pico de Gallo

6 plum tomatoes

1 jalapeno

½ red onion

2 limes

1 bunch cilantro

Salt and pepper to taste

Salsa Macha

2 oz. dry Morita peppers

1 oz. peanuts

1 oz. pepitas

1 cup Vegetable oil

Mayo Crema

½ cup mayo

½ cup sour cream

For Garnish

½ green cabbage, shredded

PREPARATION

1. Cut fish into 2 oz. strips (8 strips)

2. For the fish batter, mix 1 cup of flour and 6 ounces of beer, season with salt and pepper to taste and store in the refrigerator.

3. To make the Pico de Gallo, dice tomatoes, jalapenos and onion. Chop cilantro and add it to the mix. Season with salt and pepper and the juice of two limes, store in the refrigerator

4. Salsa Macha is a smoked chili oil. It’s a great condiment for any kind of taco or soup. Start by heating the oil in a sauce pan and bringing it to 250 degrees or almost to a boil.

5. Heat the oven to 350 degrees. On a cookie sheet, toast Morita chilies for 2 minutes, they will dry a bit and turn smokey.

6. In a blender, blend separately pepper, peanuts, and pepitas to a coarse consistency

7. Place mix in a heat-proof bowl and pour hot oil over mix, let it cool and store at room temperature up to two weeks.

TO FRY FISH

1. In a deep skillet, heat oil to 350 degrees. If oil is not hot enough, the fish will be soggy and will not crisp.

2. Dredge fish strips in seasoned flour. In hot oil, fry strips, be careful not to overcrowd the pan. Place fried strips on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

ASSEMBLE TACOS

Warm flour tortillas as instructed on the package. Place fried fish on tortillas, garnish with shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, Mayo crema, and salsa macha. Finish with a squeeze of lime. Enjoy. Makes 8 tacos. u

Salento Colombian Steakhouse

Open since 2014, this family-operated dining spot specializes in grilled salmon, pork chops, ribeye steaks, burgers and more. Also serving fried green plantains, arepas, corn cakes, rice and beans—all with a Latin American flair. 11018 Old St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin (3745882); 60 Silver Forest Dr., St. Augustine (3427557, salentosteakhouse.com)

Salt Life Food Shack

“Salt Life” is a ubiquitous phrase in Northeast Florida, and for many represents a lifestyle of relaxing fun and, above all, love for our adjacent ocean. This restaurant channels that vibe in a dining experience and a seafood-heavy menu designed to appeal to all locals and beach-lovers who enter, ranging from tuna poke bowls to Boca-style grouper. 1018 3rd St. N., Jacksonville Beach (372-4456; saltlifefoodshack.com); 321 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. L, D, $$.

Sliders Oyster Bar

With its open-air bar and broad covered patio, Sliders oozes beaches vibes and charm. A sister restaurant of Safe Harbor Seafood, diners rest

assured the fish, shrimp, and shellfish are going to be the freshest around. The raw bar serves all the seafood staples like steamed clams, peeland-eat shrimp and oysters on the half-shell. The oysters Rockefeller is baked with spinach, parmesan, provolone and breadcrumbs. The oysters “Godzilla” are served raw with seaweed salad, cucumber wasabi and the house “pirate” sauce. 218 1st St., Neptune Beach (246-0881, slidersoysterbar.com). L, D, $$.

Surfwiches

One of Northeast Florida’s original cheesesteak and hoagie stops, Surfwiches has been a top Beaches sandwich and full-service ice cream shop since 2013. Cheesesteaks range from sliced ribeye steak to grilled buffalo chicken. Classic hoagies include the Italian with Genoa salami, spicy capitol, prosciutto and provolone, as well as the thin-sliced roast beef, ham and cheese, and corned beef. The Outrageous BLT comes with a mountain of applewood-cured bacon. Plus, hot dogs, burgers, patty melts, chocolate sundaes, and more. Dine in, carryout and delivery through Uber Eats. 1537 Penman Rd., Jacksonville Beach (904-241-6996, surfwiches.com) B, L, $$

TacoLu

In a style described as Baja Mexicana, this "uber" popular restaurant serves nachos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and about any kind of taco you desire, with fish tacos being their specialty. TacoLu fulfills their niche well, and it’s what earned them the designation of “Best Tacos” in the city in our Best In Jax reader’s poll. Oh, and they have over 100 types of tequila and mezcal. 1712 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach (249-TACO; tacolu.com). L, D, SB, $.

Taqueria Cinco

Located in funky Five Points, this restaurant focuses on providing top-notch hospitality while serving authentic Mexican eats. If you come on a Friday or Saturday, be sure to try their Al Pastor. Happy hour food and drink specials available Mon.-Fri. from 3-6:30. Closed Sundays. 809 Lomax St., Riverside (312-9113; taqueria5points.com). L, D, $$.

Taverna

Taverna offers authentic Italian dishes with a modern twist. Its focused menu brings out the best in Mediterranean flavors, producing dishes like antipasto and orecchiette. All of their pasta and mozzarella are house-made, and the pizzas are cooked in a wood oven at the back of the dining room. 1986 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-3005; taverna.restaurant). L, D, SB, $$.

Taverna Oceana

The recently opened next door neighbor to sister eatery Taverna, Sam and Kiley Efron’s latest specializes in fruits of the sea. The raw bar serves classics like oysters on the half-shell, shrimp cocktail and caviar. Dinner features lobster thermador, hot-smoked salmon and pasta primavera. 1988 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-3005; oceana.restaurant). L, D, $$

Town Hall

Sourcing produce from local farms, Town Hall brings American fare with a West Coast influence to Florida. They encourage a sense of community in their dining experience, emphasized by comfy couches, warmly hued artwork, and thoughtful design touches such as outlets in the bar area. 2012 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-0726; townhalljax.com). D, SB, $$$.

Vernon’s First Coast Kitchen & Bar

Located at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, this restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients and seafood, and provides an exceptional wine list. Sunday brunch features farm-to-table classics like chicken and waffles and biscuits with gravy. 1000 PGA Tour Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach (285-7777). B, D, $$$.

Whitey’s Fish Camp

Not many restaurants double as an RV park. That hospitality, combined with homespun ultra casual décor produces a Southern atmosphere at Whitey’s Fish Camp that is, above all, authentic. The seafood is fresh and specialities include beer-battered fried grouper, North-ofthe-border steamed snow crab legs, a shrimp boil, and all-you-can-eat catfish. Check out the deck, tiki bar and dock, where you can even arrive by boat. 2032 C.R. 220, Orange Park (2694198; whiteysfish-camp.com). L, D, $$. u

Send food and restaurant news, ideas or questions to mail@jacksonvillemag.com.

Matthew's Restaurant

Only in Florida

Strange But True Stories from Across the Sunshine State

The Internet thrives on viral pet videos. In May, one video taken in Fort Lauderdale garnered millions of views and even a few national news reports. The short movie was of a golden retriever casually riding solo atop a jet ski through a marina. This being Florida, there had to be something particularly unusual about such a sight. And there was. The jet ski and pup were being pulled by a man using a water-propelled jet pack. The jet pack exerts such force that the water shot through it lifts the rider some ten feet in the air, a marvel of aquatic engineering that apparently did little to impress the life-jacket wearing retriever who trailed behind it, comfortably enjoying the ride through the marina.

“There’s no place like home.” This phrase seems to be true for at least one Florida crocodile. Last June, residents in one Brevard County neighborhood noticed a crocodile lingering near some homes. It wasn’t just any croc, however. This toothsome reptile was the same one that previously had been captured and moved by the Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission. “The crocodile that the FWC relocated on October 13, 2023, was recently seen again in Brevard County,” said an FWC spokesperson. “This particular crocodile has traveled over 100 miles during the course of 8 months to return to Brevard County, indicating that it prefers this area. To date, the animal has not displayed any concerning behaviors and is not considered to be a threat.”

Just days after taking home a $167.3 million Powerball lottery prize on April 28, James Farthing, 50, of Kentucky was arrested and charged with battery on a police officer. Of course, he was in Florida at the time, specifically the Tradewinds Resort in St. Pete Beach. According to news reports, the Kentuckian got into an argument with another resort guest, a discussion that led to punches being thrown. As he tried to break up the fight, Deputy Nicholas Areostatico reported being kicked in the face by Farthing, who subsequently attempted to run from the scene. Also involved in the fracas was Farthing’s girlfriend, 42-year-old Jacqueline Fightmaster (yes, her real name). Making matters worse, Farthing, who has an extensive criminal record, was charged with violating his parole, which was scheduled to end in August.

In April, Daniel Ciriello, 49, was arrested for disorderly intoxication and booked into the Clearwater jail. Local police happened upon Ciriello causing a disturbance outside an Applebee’s restaurant while wearing a pink thong, fake breasts and a pink wig. Police say he was so intoxicated he was unable to “provide for his own safety and well-being.” In fact, he was unable to answer a several simple questions, including where he was, what state he was in and from where did he come. Following a night in jail, Ciriello was released after pleading to the misdemeanor charge and ordered to pay $570 in fines and court costs. u