Jacksonville Magazine, August/September 2023

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

When First Coast No More Homeless Pets was founded 20 years ago, approximately 23,000 animals were killed each year in Jacksonville shelters. That number amounted to more than 400 cats and dogs being euthanized each week. For the great majority of those animals, their lives were ended simply because nobody wanted them. They weren’t a threat to society and only their numbers made them a nuisance for which disposal was considered the appropriate solution.

Thankfully, that’s no longer the case in Jacksonville and for much of the northeastern corner of Florida. Because of the efforts of First Coast No More Homeless Pets (FCNMHP) and other animal advocacy organizations, as well as cooperation from municipalities, the number of pets purposely killed in shelters each year has been reduced dramatically. Instead of euthanizing unwanted animals in great numbers, the primary focus today is on proactive measures like large-scale adoption events and spay and neuter surgeries, of which more than 20,000 per year are performed by vets who volunteer for FCNMHP, operators of the largest clinic of its kind in the country. In addition to performing surgeries for cats and dogs with homes, sterilizing feral cats held in shelters and then releasing them back into their territory is a practice that has proven to be helpful in solving the problem of stray felines. While it may seem

counterintuitive to addressing the issue, the program—started here in 2008—actually saves thousands of cats lives each year and is a more cost-effective way to manage the feral animal population. In fact, the idea has become a model followed by groups across the country.

Of course, there are a number of other local organizations with a mission to care for our furry friends. The Jacksonville Humane Society, for example, took in and cared for 8,470 dogs and cats last year. According to its annual report, more than 2,500 dogs and 4,300 cats were adopted into new families. Across all of Duval, about 90 percent of the animals brought into area shelters are saved, finding families who are ready and willing to love them. The Humane Society is able do this because of the contributions of hundreds of volunteers who give of their time at the organization’s facilities and individual donations that amounted to some $3.6 million last year.

This month, the night of September 26 to be specific, the Jacksonville Humane Society hosts its 25th annual Toast to the Animals at EverBank Stadium. The fundraiser features food and drinks from top local restaurants, live and silent auctions, raffles and other ways to contribute to the cause. Caring for and saving First Coast cats and dogs is about as good a cause as there is, wouldn’t you say? u

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

O'Malley, Ortega rescue cat

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The Florida Theatre shut its doors in July to undergo a significant four-month renovation. Scaffolding was erected inside the historic venue so that repairs could be made to the decorative plaster in the main auditorium. In addition, the paint in the lobby and auditorium are being returned to its 1927 color palette. The restrooms will be updated and the heating, air-conditioning, and ventilations systems will be completely replaced. If all goes to plan, the Theatre will open again for performances in October.

— Beth Carper

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 Chew on This Month

O A recent Consumer Price Index report showed that Florida has the highest inflation rate in the country. The driving factor for the dubious distinction is higher housing costs spurred on by an influx of new residents relocating during and following the pandemic. With an inflation rate for the 12 months ending in April, the Miami/West Palm Beach region has seen the highest inflation of Sunshine State metro areas, more than double the national average of 4%. From July 2021 to July 2022, Florida’s population grew the most of any state, according to the Census Bureau.

O In addition to rising prices, the ocean waters surrounding Florida are heating up, too. July was a warm month by any measure and this rings especially true for Gulf and Atlantic coastal waters. Much of the state is experiencing its warmest year on record, with temperatures running 3 to 5 degrees above normal. Water temperatures in the Florida Keys were recorded as high as 96 degrees, temperatures that classify as “severe,” according

to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Fears are that sustained high water temperatures will result in more and stronger hurricanes, as well as the loss of coastal corals.

O The 64,000-square-foot World Golf Hall of Fame will soon be empty, as the Foundation that operates the facility is scheduled to vacate the premises this fall or winter. So, the question is, what can fill the space? In fact, much of the surrounding property will be without tenants soon. The hall of fame’s IMAX Theatre may discontinue operations on September 1. And PGA Tour Productions plans to relocate from its 32,000 square feet of office space at the end of 2024. In total, some 36 acres of parking lots, lakes and landscaping will be mostly unused. If you have ideas of what might refresh the World Golf Hall of Fame complex, the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners is seeking public input.

O Approximately 137.6 million non-residents

visited Florida in 2022, the largest number in the state’s history—and more than one-third arrived by plane. According to a recent report ranking Florida airports, Melbourne Orlando International rated tops in the state. Rankings were based on factors such as the number of outbound direct flight destinations, average delay times, and hotels located within five miles. Miami International and Tampa International ranked second and third, respectively. Jacksonville International came in eighth among the 19 Florida airports measured.

O Jacksonville University is expanding outside of Jacksonville. In May, JU broke ground on a branch location at The Fountains at St. Johns. The site, near the intersection of CR 210 and I-95, will be the university’s first in St. Johns County and the first floor of the two-story, 12,000 square foot building will used for its healthcare sciences programs. Construction is slated for completion in the summer of 2024. u

Park it Here

It’s a project that’s been in the works for a couple of years now. With a design officially unveiled in the fall of 2020, Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park is rapidly taking shape in the shadow of Downtown. Set on what was previously vacant ground in the LaVilla neighborhood, the new public space is designed to honor two of Jacksonville most notable names in history, brothers James Weldon Johnson and John Rosamond Johnson. The two penned the lyrics and wrote the music for “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” often referred to as the Black National Anthem, at their home on the LaVilla site in the early 1900s. Sadly, little of the original character remains of the once culturally vibrant neighborhood, a part of town that once was a hotbed for commerce and nightlife. Design plans call for a stage, elevated lawn, an illuminated “poet’s walk” and a small garden with sculptures of the brothers. The 3/4-acre park, at 120 N. Lee St., is slated to be complete in autumn 2023. u

BOOM GOES THE CADILLAC

Cover your ears and prepare to simonize your vehicle. Cars and Cannons Vintage Car Show is a gathering of more than 60 classic motors inside historic Fort Clinch on Amelia Island, set for September 23, 9 AM-2 PM. Park admission is $6 per vehicle, plus $2.50 to enter the fort and enjoy the car show.

MUSIC TO OUR EARS

The Jacksonville Symphony opens its new season this month. More than 70 concerts and special events are staged from September through the spring of 2024. Music by Beethoven and Tchaikovsky highlights the year’s first Coffee Series concert on September 15, quickly followed by the opening of the Classical Series September 29 and 30.

FIVE THINGS WE LOVE RIGHT NOW

Clean Sweep

International Coastal Cleanup Day is September 16. Each year, millions of volunteers in more than 100 countries gather to protect and preserve our oceans, waves and beaches. This year, you can be one of them.

LISTEN UP

Wolf & Cub has turned a skinny alleyway behind the Historic Elks Club Building in the heart of Downtown into a cute urban oasis. This summer, the site hosted a series of Little Alley Shows, free concerts tucked into a most unusual space. Jax needs more creative outlets and funky happenings like these.

Off and Running

Lace up the running shoes. The 4th annual VyStar Emerald 5K/10K takes off along the Northbank Riverwalk on September 30. Proceeds from the event benefit Groundwork Jacksonville, the City’s nonprofit partner in building the Emerald Trail and restoring McCoy’s and Hogan’s creeks. Races start at 7:30 AM. Good exercise for a good cause. u

Walk In The Park

Location: Jeremy’s Hill

BY FABRIZIO GOWDY

MUST SEE

The highlight of Jeremy’s Hill is, well, the hills. Jacksonville’s mundane elevation profile makes the exhilarating switchbacks and steep grades here all the more unusual, refreshing and exciting. Riders can expect to encounter grades topping out at 20 percent and rapid elevation changes of up to 60 feet.

If you’re looking to add a little elevation and rugged terrain to your outdoor endeavors, it’s time to acquaint yourself with Jeremy’s Hill at Aterro Recreational Park (4520 Sunbeam Rd.). The former landfill is being converted to a privately owned park with mountain bike and running trails.

WHEN YOU VISIT

V It’s important to note that Jeremy’s Hill is not freely open to the public—access is managed by the Southern OffRoad Bicycle Association Jacksonville (SORBA Jax). SORBA Jax regularly hosts evening group rides to Jeremy’s Hill, which depart from Wicked Barley Brewing Company on Baymeadows Road. For current information on upcoming group rides, visit @jeremys_hill_jax on Instagram or SORBA Jax on Facebook. In time, Jeremy’s Hill will allow access during daylight hours like any other public park, and it will likely have a phased opening, initially only on weekends before moving to daily admissions.

V SORBA Jax President Todd Addicott has raised more than $400,000 from clubs, businesses, advertising, and private donors to develop trails and build park facilities. The Jacksonville Track Club is working towards a large contribution to build a running and walking trail around the perimeter of the property. Trek Bikes has provisionally approved $155,000 for professional trail design and materials. First Place Sports, Cham-

pion Brands, Fox Factory Suspension, and Athletic Brewing have all chipped in, as well.

V Riders are currently required to scan a QR code and sign a waiver, but Addicott recently secured State Greenway and Trails designation from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection which covers liability for the property. In fact, Jeremy’s Hill is the first privately owned trail system to receive that designation. The park is owned by J.T. Thorton and Jeremy Hill (hence the name).

Not Long Ago

The landfill property now Jeremy’s Hill received its last load of construction debris in the early 1980s, but it took over two decades for the site to be deemed methane-free and safe for a new use. In the mid-2000s, a new owner bought the property with plans to turn the site into a golf course. Several holes were actually built, but no one ever teed off—the recession forced the owner to declare bankruptcy and the course never opened. Now 40 years since its retirement as a repository for garbage, Jeremy’s Hill appears to be destined for a second, more environmentally friendly life. u

Orlando Oasis

There are any number of reasons to visit the Four Seasons Resort Orlando the first AAA Five Diamond Award-rated property in Central Florida. The fantastic dining options, various opportunities for relaxation and recreation including a luxurious spa, its proximity to the theme parks of Walt Disney World—these and numerous other indulgences are why so many book a suite here. But, even as summer in the Sunshine State slips into autumn, for us the primary allures of the 26-acre lakeside resort are the gorgeous grounds and waterpark complex. Rumor has it the hotel has the only adults-only pool on Disney property.

Lazy rivers and kids’ splash zones are darnnear ubiquitous at today’s upscale Florida resorts. That may true, but not like the Four Seasons. Spread over five acres of immaculately landscaped gardens, the pools—of which there are several—are tucked under swaying palm fronds and flowering bushes. Fountains, waterfalls, water slides, a float-in movie theatre, basketball hoops, sand volleyball courts, ping-pong tables, billiards and more are sprin-

kled around the lush oasis-like setting. Grab a few towels, find a secluded spot along the lazy river, maybe order lunch and some cocktails and dream away the afternoon.

If you do wake up and are in need of some physical exertion, the three-court tennis center is only a short walk away. Here, pro Alain Labrecque is ready to offer a lesson or just hit backhands and forehands with guests. The nearby Four Seasons Golf Club is also available to resort guests. The exclusive club features a Tom Fazio-designed, 18-hole course, as well as a six-hole par-3 short course and an 18-cup putting course. If you play, bring your clubs. And stay for lunch at Plancha, the clubhouse restaurant. Ask for a cart ride back to the hotel, if feeling sleepy again.

The pinnacle of dining (literally and figuratively) at the Four Seasons is Capa, a Michelin-starred 17th-floor steakhouse acclaimed for its Spanish-influenced cuisine and prime cuts cooked over a wood-burning grill. The menu is laced with items such as Medjool dates wrapped in bacon, Basque marinat-

ed olives, aged bone-in ribeye, and New Zealand rack of lamb. Slices of the acornfed black-hoof Iberico ham are especially indulgent. Linger after dinner to take in the nightly Disney fireworks displays which can be viewed from Capa’s terraces.

More deliciousness can be found at Ravello, a ground-floor eatery serving modern Italian for breakfast and dinner. House-made gelato is scooped inside Lickety Split coffee shop. Casual favorites like smoked chicken wings, popcorn shrimp and grilled fish tacos can be ordered at the lakeside PB&G restaurant. And, before bed, a nightcap in the lobby bar might be the ideal conclusion to a relaxing day.

One additional reason for a weekend getaway down I-95 and I-4 from Jax is the resort’s Florida residents’ rates, available through the end of September. Discounted nightly rates and added value perks like complimentary valet parking and kids’ camps do sweeten the deal. Of course, when floating down the lazy river you may hope summer never ends. u

ALL ABOARD!

“Traveling by train offers a one-of-a-kind journey and the addition of this new service on two legacy routes is something we think our customers will enjoy,” says Fred Gazzolo, vice president of product development for Amtrak. The new service he refers to is enhanced dining featuring chef-prepared meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner aboard the Silver Meteor and Silver Star trains. First Class private room travelers also are treated to tables with glassware, cutlery and white linen tablecloths. Among the menu items introduced in July include French toast and three-egg omelet for breakfast and flat iron steak and salmon for dinner. The Silver Meteor and Star provide daily service between New York and Miami, rumbling right through Jax. u

Shell Fish Behavior

The bay scalloping season in Homosassa and Crystal River is quickly coming to a close. Hiding like underwater Easter eggs on the grassy ocean floor, Florida scallops are found in the shallows of the Gulf of Mexico. These mollusks aren’t akin to oysters, clamped hard to a rock. No, scallops can swim, propelling themselves through the water by opening and closing their shells. Catching them is relatively easy—if you can find them. This underwater hunt requires a mask, snorkel and net. Oh, and a boat, too. Prime scallop territory can be miles out from the dock. A saltwater fishing license is needed, as well, unless scalloping with a charter captain. Hiring a local guide is highly recommended for novices. Not only will a charter service provide the necessary diving equipment, a good one will know the best spot to begin the hunt. Best of all, you can eat what you catch. Scallop season ends September 24. u

Have Faith

One of Downtown’s historic churches was much more than a place to pray and worship. What can it become in the 21st century?

BY TIM GILMORE

Though it’s been 30 years since the final service at Snyder Memorial Methodist Church, a new vision for the old church might not only revive the building but connect to the church’s original mission more than 150 years ago. Dawn Francis, a Jacksonville-based gastroenterologist whose mother worked in historic restoration in Colorado, is exploring the possibility of restoring the 120-year-old Gothic Revival church to become home to a Jacksonville-area Civil Rights museum, an idea activist and author Rodney Hurst floated in 2018.

Francis is in the early stages of exploration and realizes such an ambition would take years, incredible effort and great expense. Meanwhile, Steve Kelley, director of real estate for the Downtown Investment Authority, says 12 to 15 parties have contacted him expressing interest in the building.

It was the Saturday before Thanksgiving 1992 when Reverend Linda Standifer said it was time to end Sunday services at the iconic granite and limestone church. It wasn’t her doing and she was sad to be Snyder Memorial Methodist’s last minister.

During its entire history, Snyder Memorial devoted itself to social justice. It’s the church where one of the first two colleges for black students in Florida formed in 1873, the church where black and white leaders met to discuss racial divisions in the early 1960s. Snyder, according to Standifer, was one of Jacksonville’s first racially integrated congregations, offered classrooms for pregnant teenagers in the 1970s and included offices for Habitat for Humanity for Jacksonville, or HabiJax, until the church’s last days. Its last three pastors were women and Snyder welcomed the LGBT community when that concept was still

radical. “The church has always been open to everybody,” Standifer said.

In 1870, its founding minister John Swaim’s original vision of a church devoted to racial cooperation held its first services just five years after the Civil War. Swaim, an abolitionist from the North, was friends with Harriet Beecher Stowe, who’d recently relocated to Mandarin, just across the St. Johns River, and whose 1852 novel  Uncle Tom’s Cabin helped turned America against slavery.

At a time when Florida Congressman William J. Purman called Jacksonville, a city that largely supported U.S. forces against the Confederacy, “really a Northern city in a Southern latitude,” Swaim opened the new church to night classes for black students. In 1873, Swaim chaired the official board of the Cookman Institute, one of the first schools of higher edu-

Lights, Camera, Action!

Exactly 100 years after its founding, Norman Studios in Arlington is reopening as a museum to celebrate the launching of its Phase 1 renovations. The studio, named after its founder Richard E. Norman, was known for leading the industry in making race films. After the controversial but historically significant Birth of a Nation, Norman, seeking a business opportunity and racial harmony, decided to make films depicting black people in an uplifting way. It was a smart idea as the seven films, six feature-length and one short, proved to be highly profitable. The Jacksonville native would use local actors such as Dr. R. L. Brown and Steve “Peg” Reynolds, further cementing himself as a fixture in the city. Phase 1 of Norman Studios plan preserves much of the original structures that would have been present during the life of the prolific filmmaker but adds in new things like museum lighting and much-needed air conditioning. There are plans for a Phase 2, a re-model of the second floor, too. u

WRITE ON

Local author, college professor and Jax Mag History

Editor Tim Gilmore is at it again, recently penning his 22nd book. The Culture Wars of Warren Folks ($20), tells the story of a self-avowed white supremacist who ran for political office from his Jacksonville barber shop for three decades, from the mid1960s to the ‘90s. A work of historical biography and anti-racism, the 296page paperback details important local black history. “Any account of his life that failed to ask what made him the man he was would be a waste,” says Gilmore. “The Culture Wars investigates Folks’ childhood and World War II experiences, and demands the question of how the next Warren Folks might choose a better version of himself.” Gilmore hosts a book signing and discussion about the new read September 14, 5:30-7 PM, at the Jacksonville Historical Society’s Old St. Andrew’s Church, 317 Philip Randolph Blvd. u

cation (along with Brown Theological Institute in Live Oak, which eventually became Edward Waters University) for black students in Florida.

A half century later, Cookman would merge with civil rights leader Mary McLeod Bethune’s Daytona Educational and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls to become what’s now Bethune-Cookman University. When the church, originally Trinity Methodist Episcopal, rose again after the Great Fire of 1901, congregants renamed it for former pastor Edmund B. Snyder. In 1909, 40 years after founding member C.O. Livingston first sold baby carriages on a dusty street in this North Florida town both U.S. and Confederate armies burnt to the ground, the furniture merchant bequeathed to Snyder a trust that helped prop up the church all the way, as congregants would much later say, “to the bitter end.”

With his obit calling him “a regular attendant and liberal supporter,” Livingston’s estate totaled $750,000, more than $25 million in today’s currency, the largest to that point in Jacksonville’s history. Half his bequest went to his widow Martha along with the Livingston homestead at 130 West Forsyth Street. The rest went to Snyder.

In 1960, an Orlando Sentinel story bore the headline, “6 Jax Negroes at White Church.” Snyder’s Reverend Robert John Gisler noted that October 2nd was “Worldwide Communion Sunday,” and said, “Though church officials did not know what Sunday had been selected for the visitation by Negro leaders,” the kneel-in came “as no surprise to the ushers or members of the congregation.”

Gisler served in the Jacksonville Ministerial Alliance, one of the few racially integrated groups in the city. Its representatives met with Sheriff Dale Carson and Mayor Haydon Burns, pushing to desegregate downtown retail outlets and lunch counters and calling for the creation of a “biracial committee” to discuss racial grievances. Burns swore that Jacksonville would remain segregated at all costs. In the months and years to come, the Ministerial Alliance and an unofficial Bi-Racial Committee made Snyder their meeting place.

Then came Ax Handle Saturday, August 27, 1960, when black students who’d engaged in downtown lunch counter sit-ins were met with baseball bats and axe handles from white supremacists in Hemming, now James Weldon Johnson, Park next door to Snyder, which served as refuge. Several young black protesters, including a 16-year-old Rodney Hurst of the Jacksonville Youth Council of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, later met with the Bi-Racial Committee at Snyder.

Hurst was also one of those kneel-in participants, alongside young activists like Marjorie Meeks and older Civil Rights leaders like Alton Yates. Gisler called the kneel-in a “marker of a changing time,” adding, “We have had Christians of all races and many nationalities at our altar. The downtown church has long been recognized as the house of prayer for all people.”

In its afterlife, the old building has hosted concerts for the Jacksonville Jazz Festival and the One Spark crowdfunding festival. The St. Johns River City Band owned the church for a few years but the State of Florida refused their application for historic preservation funds. In 2018, Rodney Hurst proposed the church become home to a Jacksonville Civil Rights museum.

Dawn Francis says the time is now, that the development would be transformative for Downtown and for Jacksonville itself. “Snyder Memorial church is like a gift that’s been up on a shelf, forgotten,” she says. “The time is right to unwrap its legacy of equality, shelter and nurturing to the Jacksonville community and revive it as the cradle of Downtown, the way it was designed to be, from its very beginning.” u

Number$ Game

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

e The heat we’ve been feeling of late is not a result of a sizzling real estate market across the First Coast. While single-family home prices continue to inch upward through the five-county region, closed sales dropped significantly over the summer. In fact, closed sales in July were down nearly 20% from the month before. “Interest rates, the cost of goods and services, and available supply are all factors in the decline in closed sales,” says Northeast Florida Association of Realtors president Diana Galavis. In July, median price of a single-family home in Jacksonville was $330,000, a slight drop from the month before. In St. Johns County, median prices jumped nearly 6% to $585,000. “More people are looking to buy, invest, and move to Northeast Florida, and this is reflected with the month’s supply of inventory (2.6 months’ worth in Duval County),” says Galavis. “There are more buyers in the market than there are homes. Even with increased housing costs due to higher interest rates, insurance and inflation, many buyers understand that homeownership provides a pathway to long-term wealth.” u

Cross My Heart

Through many ups and downs, a local woman learns what is most precious in life.

BY LISA FELEGY

My heart story actually started because of something totally unrelated to my heart. It started with my breast cancer diagnosis. I will never forget that call, those words that you never want to hear. It was July 2019 and I had breast cancer. I always knew what I would do if I did indeed hear those words. My mom had breast cancer when she was 32, so I had my mammograms since I was in my 20s. I was used to the call backs, the diagnostic mammograms and all the stress that goes along with that.

A bilateral mastectomy was my choice of treatment, and since it was caught early, I did not need chemo treatments. I wanted to do the surgery and reconstruction and get on with my life. God had other plans. During my reconstruction surgery, I went into cardiac arrest. What was supposed to be an outpatient procedure, turned into a ten-day hospital stay with me questioning absolutely everything about my health and

how my body could fail me. I worked out, I did the Gate River Run, my great friend and I walked 39 miles in two days for breast cancer awareness.

My doctors strongly suggested that I have an ICD (implantable cardioverter defibrillator), which I did. Talk about really questioning what the heck was going on? I did. Next, my doctors referred me to Mayo Clinic, where many advanced cases of heart failure are sent. It was then that my heart journey really started. That was December 2019. After tests upon tests, I was told I was in Stage 3 heart failure. I had no idea.

The most common question I was asked was, didn’t I feel anything? Looking back, I probably did but I pushed it out of mind, telling myself that I was just tired. That’s what we do as women, right?

At Mayo Clinic, my team fought hard with me

for two years—with salt/fluid limits, medicine changes, numerous tests and failed procedures. Thats when we made the decision to go on the transplant list. It was clear my heart was too sick. It wasn’t going to heal.

Let me tell you, the process to get on an official list for an organ transplant is a journey in itself. But, that’s a story for another day. And, on top of all I was going through, my mother was told her pancreatic cancer had returned. She never wavered or gave up hope and fought as hard as she could. She lost her battle with cancer on January 3, two hours after my birthday. My sister and I were blessed to be able to be with her as she passed. I know she is still my biggest cheerleader.

It’s February 3, 2022, and I am officially listed on the transplant list as a Status 6, because I needed one more test. Not long after, I am listed as a status 4. Two days later my husband and I get the call—they have a heart for

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me! My mom is really working hard in heaven, I determine. Otherwise, how did I get the call so quickly?

I did opt for the higher risk options (such as hepatitis C positive, and the “Heart in the Box” procedure). And just like the phone call I received about having breast cancer, I remember exactly what I was doing when I got the call that a heart for me had been found.

Soon, we were off to the hospital to wait, and wait some more. The transplant team is keeping us posted on any updates. Then, we get word it’s a go. I will be getting a heart transplant. It’s 8 AM on February 12. The next few days are cloudy, painful, emotional, grateful—a great mix of emotions.

Today, here I am, one year after transplant. It has been 12 months of ups and downs. In October, I was hospitalized with Cytomegalovirus (CMV)—an infection that can lie dormant, Ninety percent of the population has had it in their lives. My donor did, I did not. This mismatch made me very sick and we are still working on the proper balance of medicines. We also lost my dad to brain cancer in September. He battled for four years, always the warrior.

But in spite of all of that I have been through—myself and my family—I am grateful. At my one-year appointment, I did learn a little about my heart donor. He was a male between the ages of 25 and 30. He tragically died of head trauma. I cannot imagine the grief his family must have felt, yet they were able to make a decision that saved my life. My promise is to take care of their son’s heart. Always. Because that is the most precious gift anyone can give. Life. u

SCENE STEALERS

For the first time in its nearly 110-year history, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is opening its doors to areas not usually accessible to the public. Recently, the Zoo launched its Behindthe-Scenes Experiences, offering guests the chance to see some of the attraction’s most beloved residents from an entirely new perspective. For example, ever want to see an elephant paint? How about feed a Magellanic penguin or mingle with flamingos or feed a cassowary? Now you can.

Guests also can take a guided tour of the Manatee Critical Care Center and learn what it takes to rehabilitate one of Florida’s most iconic species. “These unique experiences help us accomplish our mission of connecting communities with wildlife and wild places and offer valuable insight into the vital role zoos and aquariums play in conservation,” says Kelly Rouillard, director of marketing and sales at the zoo. Experiences last approximately 60 minutes. Tickets range from $240 to $300 and must be reserved in advance. u

Head of the Class

BY FABRIZIO GOWDY

Back-to-school can be a challenging time for students and parents alike. Students are jolted out of their carefree world of lazy days and sleeping in late and dropped back into a rigid routine of early starts and increased responsibility. Parents face the potential anxiety of their kids not adjusting well. We reached out to educators, administrators, and counselors from schools around Jacksonville to get their tips and advice on ensuring the smoothest possible transition back to school. Specifically, we asked what students and parents should focus on in the first month of school to get back up to speed. Here’s some of what they had to say.

There was one common piece of advice every education professional we talked to shared—establish a routine. Healthy routines are a critical part of both completing homework and bedtime. “While our children may not enjoy homework, they’ll be less resistant if it is simply ‘what we do’ after school,” says Sloane A. Castleman, Ed D, Head of School at San Jose Episcopal Day School. “Routines are a powerful lever, so let your routines do the heavy lifting for you.”

Routines are just as important when it comes to bedtime; try to set a specific time for lights out and waking up. “Establishing a routine at bedtime allows a child to know what to expect. It can offer a sense of safety and security, eliminating anxiety and uncertainty,” Jacksonville Country Day School counselor Liz McNairy says. An evening routine isn’t just important for younger kids; teens are the most likely to suffer from sleep deprivation.

“Having a good night’s rest, especially for adolescents, is critical for attentiveness, motivation, and ultimately being able to do one’s best,” explains Vice Principal Micheal Broach of Bishop Kenny High School. Katie Cussen, a counselor at The Bolles School, agrees, and recommends keeping devices out of your child’s room leading up to bedtime to ensure they don’t stay up too late. Petra Obritzberger, Head of School at The Discovery School, suggests introducing alternative activities that don’t involve devices or screens.

Having a routine for managing homework is just as important. Small things, like preparing backpacks, lunches, and outfits the

night before, can also help avoid stress and sleep deprivation

It’s important to check in with your kids each day, but most parents know that the classic “How was your day?” inquiry often yields short and unhelpful responses like “good,” “fine,” and “okay.” Bolles’s Katie Cussen and Amy Perkins, Director of Student Services at Episcopal School of Jacksonville, both recommend starting by asking your kids to rate their day on a scale of 1 to 10 and then focusing on the day’s highs and lows. “Track how the answer changes over time,” adds Perkins, a licensed mental health counselor. “We want our kids to have a good day every day, but if it’s a tough day, there could be so many reasons: social, emotional, academic, or even physical.”

At the start of each school year, The Discovery School sends home a list of 50 questions parents can ask instead of “how was your day?” These include questions like “Did anyone do anything silly to make you laugh?,” “Who did you sit with at lunch?,” and “If you could change one thing about your day, what would it be?”

Checking in with your child and establishing an evening routine can go hand-inhand; bedtime is a great time to ask your kids how they are doing. “Our days can be filled with so many activities, moving from one thing to the next. Taking the time to connect at the end of the day can help slow all of that down,” Jacksonville Country Day’s Liz McNairy says.

Organization is a multifaceted piece of the equation for student success— using a planner, having a tidy desk, mastering school technology—these are all part of being organized. “A good habit is to have a planner ready at the beginning and end of every class,” suggests Broach. “A natural act of teaching is to remind students at the beginning and end of class about upcoming due dates and goals; writing things down and then checking them off the list is an important executive functioning skill.”

According to Broach, preparing a functional study space at home is also critical. This means cleaning up the clutter that may have accumulated on your child’s desk over the summer, but also focusing on consistency to reinforce routines. “Homework and studying are best accomplished in a distraction-free environment, and if it is the same place each time, that helps students mentally engage.”

As Episcopal’s Amy Perkins points out, being organized extends to being familiar with your school’s technology and portals; be sure to write down passwords

Day at the Museum

and take pictures of logon information for you and your student. “Depending on your student’s comfort level, navigate your school’s portal together, and if you’re the one who needs a little extra help, ask your student for a tutorial,” she says. “That will give you a chance to reassure your student by saying something like ‘wow, you really are good with this!’”

In addition, several educators stressed the fact that parents should not hesitate to utilize school resources and communicate frequently with teachers and administrators—being actively involved in your child’s education is a good thing. “Be proactive about communicating early on in the school year with your child’s teacher; they want to know as much as he or she can to be able to help your child learn and be successful,” advises Laura Bayer, assistant Head of School at Riverside Presbyterian Day School. “Don’t hesitate to pick up the phone or schedule an appointment to meet with your child’s teacher.”

Katie Cussen of The Bolles School echoes Bayer’s advice. “School faculty and staff are there to help your student, so please contact the counselor, learning specialist, coach, teacher, or advisor if you or your student needs any help of any kind.” Communication is a two-way street, so it’s equally important to always read announcements and messages from the school.

“Read school communications right away, whether they arrive via email, the school

The lazy days of summer are winding down, but that doesn’t mean the fun family outings need to end. A visit to a local museum is a great way for families to keep the good times rolling into fall. This applies to kids and adults with differing abilities, too. At the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens , all three of its gardens are wheelchair accessible, and there are manual wheelchairs available onsite that can be checked out at the front desk. Also, at the front desk are “sensory bags” outfitted with noise-canceling headphones and other items that can help lessen sensory overload for visitors. In addition, the Cummer offers a variety of tours the provide added support such as American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation for those with hearing impairment and Touch Tours for visitors with low vision. u

portal, a crumpled flyer in a backpack, or old-fashioned mail,” Perkins advises. Lastly, Perkins says it is important for parents to communicate with each other. “Connect with other parents, even if you don’t know them well. Create community through meet-the-teacher events, games, the carpool line, and even through a group text about a homework assignment.”

Finally, it’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that mistakes will be made and that is okay. “Forgetting a book, missing an assignment, and even being late to school are frustrating, but we need to be careful not to blow those issues out of proportion,” Perkins reminds us. “Hold off on those doubts about college readiness if your 6th grader gets in the car without shoes. This is messy, remember?”

RPDS’s Laura Bayer also reminds us to avoid overscheduling our kids; finding the right balance is key. “Extracurriculars are fun and certainly have a place in helping your child develop their interests and talents, but remember that all children need unstructured time to play or simply relax,” Bayer says.

Perhaps the most important thing to remember is to take a deep breath and not let the setbacks and mistakes spoil the joy of spending time with your children as they progress through school. As the saying goes, the days pass slowly, but the years fly by. u

PLAY BALL!

The “pock, pock, pock” of pickleball mania is bouncing across the country. Serving up some seasonal court and fairway fun this fall is the Kate Amato Foundation’s inaugural Kate Kombo Golf and Pickleball Tournament, set for October 20 at The Yards in Sawgrass. With a twist on the usual fundraising afternoon at a country club, the Kate Kombo features a golf shootout on the links while, at the same time, 12 courts flush with pickleball pairs will square off in a round robin tourney. At the end of play, all golfer and picklers will gather on The Yards patio for further fun, fundraising and food. Spectators are welcome to cheer and occasionally heckle throughout the day. Proceeds from the event benefit the Kate Amato Foundation, whose mission is to fund innovative, nontoxic treatment for childhood cancer. Details at KateAmatoFoundation.org

NORTHEAST FLORIDA

SCHOOLS PRIVATE & PUBLIC

SUMMER IS ENDING AND A NEW SCHOOL YEAR HAS STARTED. So, in addition to the morning commute returning to normal congestion, the city’s teachers, tutors, principles and students are doing their best to master the year’s reading, writing and arithmetic. For parents, Northeast Florida’s educational options have never been better. Need proof? Featured on the following pages are profiles of some of the region’s leading K-12 schools, as well as a handy chart detailing more than a dozen categories for comparison, from sports to test scores. Now, do your homework and find the right fit for your child.

Select Northeast Florida Private & Public Schools

NOTE: School details posted here are subject to change. Parents are encouraged to confirm all information. We attempted to verify the chart by contacting all of the schools listed. Questions we were not able to confirm were left blank. • Updated August 2023

THE BOLLES SCHOOL

An Education with a World View

BOLLES STUDENTS DON’T ONLY RECEIVE A WORLD-CLASS EDUCATION – they learn how to become savvy global citizens as they pursue their passions in an unrivaled academic environment designed to develop tomorrow’s leaders.

The Bolles Global Learning & Engagement program promotes global citizenship across Pre-K through Grade 12, providing opportunities for students to connect with their international peers and build understanding across cultures. Bolles also offers seven world languages, 10 international and domestic travel programs, and access to the Global Online Academy to give students an even broader selection of courses from around the globe.

“Our focus is maximizing and showcasing our strengths as an international, multicultural community and to expand our global reach, context and innovation,” said Bolles President and Head of School Tyler Hodges. “We want to make sure our students are prepared to thrive in an international marketplace – where they are familiar with cultural nuances, global education, international practices and opportunities to connect.”

The Bolles School is an independent, coeducational day and boarding school founded in 1933 that is home to more than 1,750 students on four campuses. The School is proud of its globally diverse students who represent 59 different countries and speak 36 languages. Boarding students in the Resident Life Program also hail from 27 countries and 12 states, adding their unique experiences to the day student body’s culturally robust environment.

Academically, Bolles offers courses in seven languages (including Chinese, Japanese and Arabic) and 29 Advanced Placement courses. Expert faculty members fan the flames of curiosity and

guide students of all ages on a journey to explore their interests, discover their passions and reach for their dreams. Bolles also has educational partnerships with Mayo Clinic and Zimmer Biomet, as well as its own Anatomage virtual dissection table.

The School’s comprehensive fine and performing arts program provides courses in drama, dance, visual arts, chorus, music and band. Among middle and upper school students, 70 percent enrolled in fine and performing arts classes this year, while 100 percent of lower school students are involved in art, music and theater instruction.

The School’s athletic successes are known worldwide with 24 sports teams at the middle, JV and varsity levels. Most students participate in one or more sports at Bolles. A total of 63 Bolles students, former students and Bolles Sharks have participated in the Olympics over the years, and 14 Olympic athletes from Bolles have won 29 medals.

At Bolles, students experience an All Things Possible approach to learning, which opens their eyes to the limitless opportunities before them. With a foundation in courage, integrity and compassion, students know how to be successful on the global scene as they progress into college and life.

EPISCOPAL SCHOOL OF JACKSONVILLE

A Portrait of Potential

WITH THREE CAMPUSES LOCATED ACROSS NORTHEAST FLORIDA, only Episcopal School of Jacksonville is able to serve students and families through every phase of their academic journey, from age one through 12th grade. We are a community where students benefit from our rigorous curriculum, vibrant fine arts offerings, outstanding athletic programs, diverse extracurricular programs, small class sizes, and exceptional faculty; the global community benefits from the contributions and leadership of our graduates.

Episcopal School of Jacksonville prepares students for success in college and beyond by delivering a unique balance across Four Pillars — Academics, Athletics, Spiritual Life, and Fine Arts. An Episcopal graduate lives into his or her potential by becoming a well-rounded individual who seeks understanding, develops a sense of self, lives with honor and purpose, and pursues a life of faith. We invite you to visit one of our three campuses to learn more:

Grades 6-12 on the Munnerlyn Campus, located at 4455 Atlantic Boulevard, Jacksonville, Florida 32207. Phone: (904) 396-5751

Grades Pre-K 3-Grade 5 on the Beaches Campus, located at 1150 N 5th Street, Jacksonville Beach, Florida 32250. Phone: (904) 246-2466

Age 1-Grade 5 on the St. Mark’s Campus, located at 4114 Oxford Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida 32210. Phone: (904) 388-2632

4455 ATLANTIC BLVD., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32207

(904) 396-5751 • ESJ.ORG

PROVIDENCE SCHOOL

Boldly Christian, Unquestionably Academic

JOINING THE PROVIDENCE COMMUNITY IS MORE THAN SIMPLY ENROLLING IN A SCHOOL. We aim to not only educate but also transform hearts and minds by offering an extraordinary experience. When families choose Providence, they are joining a family that is committed to the School’s Mission: to prepare its students to become boldly Christian and unquestionably academic servant leaders who change the world.

Faith is not separated from learning at Providence, but rather integrated intentionally under the expert guidance of Christian teachers and coaches. This not only helps them flourish in the classroom but outside the classroom walls. Since opening in 1997, Providence has excelled in providing our students with a seamless college-preparatory education, an award-winning fine arts program, and a championship FHSAA athletic program. In high school, we offer a rigorous program with Advanced Placement, Dual Enrollment, and honors programs to prepare students for the next level of academic achievement. Our college counselors work one-on-one with students to help them discover God’s unique plan for their lives, establish good col -

lege matches, and potential lifelong careers. In the last 5 years, our graduates have been offered over $55 million in college scholarships and have achieved 100% college acceptance. As a Christ-centered community, our values are reflected by showing His love in action through global missions, community service, spiritual retreats, devotions, prayer, and weekly chapel.

We’d love to show you why Providence is more than just a school, we are a family! To schedule a campus visit go to www.prov.org or call 904-223-5270.

BISHOP KENNY HIGH SCHOOL

“BUT SEEK FIRST THE KINGDOM OF GOD AND HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS.” Matthew 6:33. For 72 years, Bishop Kenny High School has built a legacy of faith, guiding Crusaders in becoming individuals of conviction and integrity, conducting themselves honorably, with honesty, and a sense of duty toward study and service.

Founded in 1952, our beautiful 55-acre campus is a place where a strong Catholic tradition and messages rooted in Gospel values inform all aspects of campus life, from academics to athletics. More than 17,000 students, faculty, and alumni make up the BK community. While the campus has continually advanced over the years, the Bishop Kenny experience remains steadfast: excellent academics, a tradition of Christian service opportunities, a thriving athletics and activities program, and the availability of Mass, prayer, and religious education.

The school offers many academic programs, including practical and performing arts, advanced placement courses, and STEM activities. Students can choose from 24 Advanced Placement courses, including the AP Capstone Diploma Program, and various STEM courses and activities, including robotics, Esports, and NJROTC. Nearly every student on campus participates in at least one of the more than 50 academic, activity, or service clubs. More than half of Crusader students play on freshman, junior varsity, or varsity athletic teams and are committed to being competitive athletes demonstrating leadership and good sportsmanship. Our dedicated faculty and staff guide students to develop the social, emotional, and academic skills necessary for college and future careers. In both students and staff, we cultivate a path to success, a deep faith present in everyday life, and a desire to live for others. Students are encouraged to discern, take risks, fail humbly, persist, and ultimately succeed.

As we also look ambitiously to the future, we challenge our students to grow in their faith, lead in scholarship, and serve others as they shape Bishop Kenny’s legacy of faith.

BOLD CITY EDUCATION

Bold City Education programs are designed to help students develop skills, discover individual strengths and support growth throughout their academic career. Connecting classroom learning with real-life examples builds engagement, supports critical thinking and encourages problem-solving strategies.

PADAWAN ACADEMY: VPK

At the Padawan Academy, we are building a learning environment that generates wonder and creativity at every turn. Your child will be supported by an educational team experienced in early childhood development and in the use of activitybased curricula

SAN JOSE: GRADES K-12

Our thriving K-12 environment supports program continuity and long-term academic development of individual student needs. Our campus includes distinct spaces for Lower, Middle, and Upper divisions. San Jose is a tuition free public charter school choice option.

CECIL: GRADES 6-12

Students at Cecil are focused on preparing for the workforce through our accelerated early college program combined with career and technical education courses. We offer several pathways for our career minded students from earning certifications to completing an Associates degree at FSCJ at no cost to you.

HORIZON INSTITUTE: DROP OUT PREVENTION - GRADES 6-12

Individualized learning paths focused on completing high school graduation requirements. This free program is ideal for students who are not on track to graduate and interested in only taking the courses they need to graduate. We have 3 campus locations to choose from.

1055 KINGMAN AVE., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32207

(904) 398-7545

BISHOPKENNY.ORG/ADMISSIONS

Tradition. Excellence. Faith. The Spirit of a Crusader.

COLLAGE DAY SCHOOL

Whole child approach to learning

COLLAGE DAY SCHOOL IS AN EDUCATIONALLY DYNAMIC INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL in the Palm Valley area of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. Serving students aged 3 months through 5th grade, Collage provides your child a safe and beautiful environment that develops not just their love of learning, but their eagerness to explore and understand the natural world. By combining evidence-based academic programming with a wealth of socioemotional resources, Collage sets the foundation for your child to engage with the world as a wellrounded lifelong learner.

At Collage, our primary objective is to equip your child with the skills and confidence to excel in any classroom they encounter, ensuring they leave our school feeling capable and self-assured. To achieve this, we utilize an educational methodology grounded in standards-based academics, ageappropriate social skill development, and project-based learning opportunities across our entire setting. At Collage, our dedicated staff brings a rich tapestry of diverse backgrounds, experiences, and teaching styles to our school community. What unites them is a shared passion for our holistic approach to education, which nurtures the whole child. We embrace and celebrate diversity, encourage curiosity, and foster creativity from our youngest to our oldest students.

171 CANAL BLVD., PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL 32082

(904) 900-1439

INFO@COLLAGEDAYSCHOOL.ORG

COLLAGEDAYSCHOOL.ORG

RIVERSIDE PRESBYTERIAN DAY SCHOOL

FOR 75 YEARS, RIVERSIDE PRESBYTERIAN DAY SCHOOL HAS had a passion for foundational childhood education that uniquely lays the building blocks for a lifetime of learning. Riverside’s mission is to educate the mind, nurture the spirit, and foster the development of the whole child. Our educational program reflects this commitment and is designed to build knowledgeable, well-rounded, critically thinking individuals who respect the differences of others in preparation for life in a global community.

Riverside provides a child-centered learning environment for PreK 3 through 6th Grade students that is dedicated to imagination and wonder. Our talented faculty shares a challenging academic program, designed to unwrap the joy of learning through discovery and reflection. Our students learn to value and respect the unique qualities inherent within themselves. We invite you to visit our campus and explore your future at Riverside.

ST. JOHNS COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

College Prep, Redefined.

ST. JOHNS COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL DEVELOPS STUDENTS WHO seek solutions, accept responsibility, and create collaboration. The School boasts a seasoned faculty and challenging curriculum, and Spartan sports have produced multiple state championship teams. Our visual arts program leverages campus studios, kilns, print labs, and more, while students acquire awards and create a competitive portfolio. St. Johns is perfectly positioned to prepare your child for college and life.

St. Johns’ students have the advantage of being on the same 26-acre campus from Pre-K 3 through graduation. Faculty and staff build on students’ educational growth and emotional well-being by working across divisions during a student’s educational career. Capitalizing on small classes, St. Johns provides an application-based teaching method that prepares students for success and provides them with tools to overcome obstacles. Cuttingedge programs, such as Winterim, Fellowships, and Global Online Academy offer opportunities for students to discover and pursue areas of interest while gaining real-world experience and personalized learning opportunities.

The School’s 3D Technology & Innovation Lab is a hub of activity as students leverage a suite of 3D printers and travel the world in virtual reality. In classrooms, students put coding lessons to work designing apps and programming robots. Visit sjcds.net to learn more!

Call or click today to schedule a personal tour: sjcds.net/visit or (904) 264-9572. St. Johns Country Day School serves children from age 3 through Grade 12 on 26 beautiful acres, minutes from I-295. Florida School Choice Scholarships Now Being Accepted!

UNIVERSITY CHRISTIAN

Preparing students to impact the world.

SINCE 1965, UNIVERSITY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL HAS CHALLENGED THOUSANDS OF STUDENTS academically while building a strong foundation spiritually. This year, we are excited to reach even more students in a brand new community as we open our new campus- UCS Oceanway!

Whether you’re attending our main campus or our Oceanway Campus, University Christian School is committed to providing an exceptional education, grounded in Biblical Worldview, that sets your child up for success.

Experience the difference that comes with a school that values both academic excellence and spiritual growth.

Experience an environment where questions are encouraged, conversation is promoted, and critical thinking is fostered.

Experience Christ-centered education on a campus where patriotism, lifelong community, leadership, and service are at the core of all we do.

Our mission is to prepare each child for a life of purpose, impact, and meaning. We take great pride in our history of building champions for Christ. With dedicated faculty and dynamic opportunities, they will thrive in all areas!

Plan a visit today and see for yourself what sets UC apart from all the rest!

UNIVERSITY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

5520 UNIVERSITY BLVD. WEST

JACKSONVILLE, FL 32216

UNIVERSITY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL- OCEANWAY

212 SAGO AVENUE

JACKSONVILLE, FL 32218

WWW.UCSJAX.COM

3100 DOCTORS LAKE DR., ORANGE PARK, FL 32003 ( 904 ) 264 - 9572

Help Wanted

Several local organizations offer guidance and mental health support to area kids, some even inside schools. Among them are:

RIVER

POINT BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

River Point Behavioral Health is an 84-bed treatment facility that specializes in quality mental health, substance use and dual diagnosis services. Its treatment center offers a broad continuum of care through an integrated system of inpatient, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs. (904) 724-9202 • RiverPointBehavioral.com

FLORIDA HEALTH DUVAL COUNTY

Behavioral Health Services helps improve the mental health and wellbeing of people living in Duval County. Services provided include: Individual and family counseling; Treatment for depression, anxiety, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder, and other life issues; Parenting skills; Healthy coping strategies; Psychiatric medication management. Services are provided to teens and adults ages 13 and up. (904) 253-1190 • Duval.FloridaHealth.gov

COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS OF JACKSONVILLE

Since 1990, Communities In Schools has helped more than 110,000 students. The organization serves students in Duval County Public Schools every day by utilizing the power of positive adult role models and surrounding them with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life. Its programs impact struggling students through case management, literacy tutoring and after-school programs. (904) 344-3900 • CISJax.org

CHILD GUIDANCE CENTER

For nearly 70 years the professionally trained staff at Child Guidance Center has positioned clients for success by operating on a whole-health, whole-family mentality that not only focuses on treating children and adolescents, but also their families and systems. The organization serves upward of 5,000 individual children per year, as well as their siblings, guardians, and family members. (904) 448-4700 • CGCJax.org

YOUTH CRISIS CENTER

YCC’s emphasis on care is for those who have been exposed to traumatic situations such as divorce, homelessness, relocation, loss of life, bullying and abuse. The organization provides a variety of services for children, adolescents, young adults, parents and families. It provides short-term crisis care, mental health counseling, skills-based group training, and transitional living services program for children, teens, young adults, and their families. (904) 725-6662 • YouthCrisisCenter.org

THE DISCOVERY SCHOOL

Discover

FOUNDED IN 1990, THE DISCOVERY SCHOOL IS A DYNAMIC independent school located in Jacksonville Beach serving children ages 18 months through 8th grade. Your child’s educational path starts in an authentic Montessori classroom and advances to a globally recognized program, the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme starting at age 3. Its student-centered approach to education reflects the best of educational research, thought leadership, and experience. Our Vision is to cultivate an inclusive and vibrant community that promotes knowledge, creativity, independent thinking, and mutual respect. When we meld imagination with compassion and academic excellence, there is no limit to what our students can achieve.

GREENWOOD SCHOOL

AT GREENWOOD SCHOOL, WE RECOGNIZE THAT NO TWO STUDENTS are the same and neither are their learning needs. Teachers’ use research-based, multi-sensory instructional methods to focus on students’ strengths in and out of the classroom. Across all academic subjects, Greenwood offers interactive and collaborative classroom technology specifically helpful for students’ learning differences. Opportunities for advanced coursework, guidance based Social Emotional Learning courses, and a broad range of extracurricular pursuits are also provided. The Greenwood School’s Mission is to provide a challenging and supportive education to middle and high school students with learning differences. Through adaptive, multisensory instruction and a positive environment, students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve their highest potential in the classroom and beyond.

JACKSONVILLE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

Prepared for Success at JCDS

THROUGH INTELLECTUAL EXPLORATION ACROSS OUR 19-ACRE campus in the convenient Southside area of Jacksonville, children in Pre K-3 through 6th grade are engaged in a transformative learning experience at Jacksonville Country Day School. Strengthened by a supportive and nurturing community of educators, peers, and parents, JCDS students are taught how to approach learning with creativity, perseverance, and confidence so that they are prepared for success at the next academic level and beyond. Call or visit JCDS online to schedule a virtual tour and discover all that our school has to offer.

PRE–K3 THROUGH 6TH GRADE 10063 BAYMEADOWS RD., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32256 (904) 641-6644 • JCDS.COM

SAN JOSE EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL

FOR NEARLY 75 YEARS, SAN JOSE EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL has served as a leader among Florida’s independent schools, joyfully cultivating the minds, bodies, and spirits of its Pre-K3 through 6th grade students within a context that is extraordinarily safe, supportive, engaging, and inspiring. SJEDS has served as a trusted and respected educational institution in the Jacksonville area since 1950.

One of the defining characteristics of SJEDS is its welcoming, inclusive and service-oriented culture. This ethos is deeply rooted in the Episcopal tradition and at the heart of the school’s mission. With a commitment to caring for all of God’s creation, students and families engage regularly in local and global service projects designed to tend to the needs of others as well as our environment.

7423 SAN JOSE BLVD., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32217 (904)

SEACOAST CHARTER ACADEMY

THE MISSION OF SEACOAST IS TO PROVIDE A STUDENTCENTERED EDUCATION, focusing on the whole child. We want our students to develop a true love for learning by creating a positive learning environment with innovative technology and high-quality education, focused on an arts-integrated, handson curriculum with the overall goal of giving our elementary students a lifetime appreciation of learning and the development of their unique talents and abilities.

Call to schedule a tour to see what makes us a different.

datebook

COMPILED BY JOSHUA SMITH

Lynyrd Skynyrd

OCTOBER 5 AND 6, 7:30 PM | St. Augustine Amphitheatre

As Skynyrd approaches the 50th anniversary of the band’s critically acclaimed debut album, the band continues to resonate with their multi-generational fan base as much today as when they first emerged out of Jax in 1973. Many of the band’s original members are playing in that great concert hall in the sky. But the current lineup featuring Johnny Van Zant, Rickey Medlocke and Mark Matejka rolls along. “It’s about the legacy of Lynyrd Skynyrd, and what it stands for, what the fans are all about,” says Van Zant. “There’s nothing like getting out there and playing a great show and seeing people who love this music,” Free Bird! $46-$175.

Jacksonville Taco & Tequila Festival

SEPTEMBER 2-3

Metropolitan Park

Headliners Big Boi from Outkast, Lupe Fiasco and Gym Class Heroes join some 40 bands and DJs playing on three stages in a two-day fest serving more than 40 taco makers, margarita and tequila sampling stations, an arts and crafts market, games and more, $35-$400

Galaxy Fest

SEPTEMBER 9, 11 AM-4 PM

James Weldon Johnson Park

“Where Culture and Science Ignite” is the theme to Galaxy Fest, a science gathering for girls of color designed to provide them with the opportunity to engage with women in the STEM professions, explore interactive exhibits, participate in hands-on activities, and immerse themselves in captivating demonstrations, free

JOHNNYSWIM

SEPTEMBER 6, 7 PM

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall

Husband and wife—Abner Ramirez and Amanda Sudano—translate the memories and milestones on their journey into spirited and soulful anthems amplified by alternative experimentation, rock energy and pop ambition, $42-$47

Zach Williams

SEPTEMBER 8, 7:30 PM

St. Augustine Amphitheatre

Music is meant to feel “lived-in,” not unlike a favorite old jacket or a first car. At least that’s what multiplatinum Arkansas-born and Nashville-based maverick Zach Williams would say. Through a fusion of southern rock spirit and country soul, Zach creates music with an exterior which is worn down in the best way, but all heart underneath rough guitar riffs and gravelly vocals, $39-$79

Sharon Isbin & the Pacifica Quartet

SEPTEMBER 10, 2 PM

Lewis Auditorium, Flagler College

The EMMA Concert Association opens its 45th season of classical and contemporary concerts with Grammy Award winner Isbin, a classical guitarist who was named the 2020 Musical America Worldwide Instrumentalist of the Year, $5-$30

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp

SEPTEMBER 12-17

121 Financial Ballpark

Jacksonville’s Triple-A baseball team takes to the diamond nine times this month. The Shrimp close out this home stand with a long series versus the Charlotte Knights, $10-$53.

Florida Chamber Music Project

SEPTEMBER 17, 3 PM

Beaches Museum Chapel

The Florida Chamber Music Project is celebrating over a decade’s worth of performances. The evening’s program provides live classical renditions of composers such as Beethoven and Mozart, along with some newer composers, $30

Fiddler on the Roof THROUGH SEPTEMBER 17

Alhambra Theatre & Dining

Set in Imperial Russia, Fiddler on the Roof is one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history. Yet, it’s been absent from Jacksonville stages since 2003. Well, it’s back and the musical is a true family affair. In the lead role of Tevye is Todd Booth, former owner and current creative director of the iconic Alhambra. He is joined by wife Linda, who plays Golde. Their daughter, Jessica, who began her acting career at the Alhambra, directs the production, $45-$78

Jacksonville Jaguars

SEPTEMBER 17, 25 AND OCTOBER 15, 1 PM

Everbank Stadium

The Jaguars play four home games in September and October. Fans need little more than a car ride and ticket to attend three of the games. The fourth, on October 1 versus the Falcons, will require a flight or passage on a cruise ship as this game is going to be played in London. No matter where they play, the Jags are looking to build on the momentum churned up at the end of last season. Hopes are that Trevor, Calvin, Josh, Travon and the rest of the squad will take the AFC by storm once more. Duuuuvaaallll!

Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes

SEPTEMBER 21, 8 PM

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall

Emerging from the New Jersey shore scene in 1974, Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes have influenced musicians such as Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. The group has over 30 albums including “Heart of Stone,” which Rolling Stone declared as “one of the top 100 albums of the 1970s and ‘80s,” $86-$96

Ne-Yo, Robin Thicke and Mario

SEPTEMBER 22, 7:30 PM | Daily’s Place

Triple-header concerts feature headliner Ne-Yo, a Motown Records recording artist who has racked up a collection of hits including “Sexy Love,” “Miss Independent,” and “Push Back,” with special guests Robin Thicke and Mario, $50-$145

Daniel Tosh: Sweet T Tour

SEPTEMBER 24, 7 PM

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts

After graduating from the University of Central Florida with a degree in marketing, Tosh moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in comedy. Well, that’s worked out pretty well, so far, $42-$67

Legally Blonde, The Musical

SEPTEMBER 28-NOVEMBER 5

Alhambra Theatre & Dining

Based on the novel and film of the same name, the show follows Elle Woods, a sorority girl who enrolls in Harvard Law School

Seen

Hail to the Chief

Jacksonville welcomed its first female mayor with a series of special events and celebrations the weekend of July 1. Mayor Donna Deegan was officially sworn in at a Saturday morning ceremony inside Jacoby Symphony Hall. Later that evening, the festive atmosphere continued with the Mayor’s Inaugural Ball held high above Downtown at the The River Club. Special guests, supporters, Deegan’s family and the general public were invited to join in the celebration, a party that marked a truly historic moment in the city’s history. u

COMING SOON:

The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) promises guests an evening of elevated fundraising complete with cocktails, music, aperitifs and an immersive experience inside the Southbank landmark. The event benefits MOSH’s exhibitions, community outreach, and educational opportunities. Museum by Moonlight is set for September 29, 7-10 PM. $125$225 general admission.

Guardian ad Litem Foundation (GALF) hosts its annual fundraiser “There’s No Place Like Home” on Saturday, November 4. The Emerald City worthy event takes place at the Garden Club of Jacksonville, 6-10 PM, with guests enjoying catered eats, spirits, a live and silent auction, and music from Bold City Classics. GALF is dedicated to helping abused, abandoned and neglected children who have been removed from their homes.

to win back an ex-boyfriend. That doesn’t happen, but she does prevail as counsel in a murder trial, teaching friends to “bend and snap” in the process, $45-$78

Jacksonville Symphony

SEPTEMBER 29 AND 30, 7:30 PM

Jacoby Symphony Hall

Music Director Courtney Lewis and the Symphony start the new season with a major new commission—an organ concerto by award-winning composer Lowell Lieberman and performed by organist Paul Jacobs. The evening opens with music by Beethoven and concludes with Schumann’s Second Symphony, $29-$84

Jacksonville Home and Patio Show

SEPTEMBER 29-OCTOBER 1

Prime Osborn Convention Center

The fall edition of the Jacksonville Home + Patio Show brings consumers face to face with industry professionals for consultations and advice, as well as showcasing the latest products in kitchens, bath, outdoor spaces, gardening and more. The show will also include a food truck rally on Friday and Sunday, $5-$12

St. Augustine Songwriters Festival

SEPTEMBER 29-OCTOBER 1

Downtown St. Augustine

Annual festival designed to offer music lovers an intimate look into the creative process and inspiring stories behind hits penned by some of the music industry’s leading songwriters, such as participants Wendell Mobley, Lee Thomas Miller and Bobby Pinson. Venues include Colonial Oak Music Park and Prohibition Kitchen.

Jacksonville Symphony

OCTOBER 6-7, 7:30 PM | Jacoby Symphony Hall

“Do you remember the 21st night of September?” Of course, you do. Move and groove to the legendary hits of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Earth, Wind & Fire. The Symphony and celebrated vocalists bring their musical magic to life in an invigorating fusion of funk, soul, jazz and pop, transforming Jacoby Symphony Hall into a “Boogie Wonderland,” $29-$84

Benise - Fiesta!

OCTOBER 10, 7:30 PM | WJCT Soundstage

Armed with his Spanish guitar, Benise will take the audience on an unprecedented and epic adventure through Flamenco, Cuban

Salsa, Brazilian Samba, Parisian Waltz, exotic drumming, and more, $45-$119

Bert Kreischer: Tops Off World Tour

OCTOBER 14, 7 PM

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena

According to Forbes, comedian Kreischer is “one of the best storytellers of his generation” who “seamlessly and sincerely shares anecdotes about his family and fatherhood while proving ‘that there’s a way to take his [party-boy] antics into middle-age,’ $36-$120

The Church

OCTOBER 17, 8 PM | Ponte Vedra Concert Hall

The Australian psych-rock band is entering their fifth decade of music making. Over their 43-year career, the band has seen many changes and now includes new members. The rock ensemble is currently recording their 26th studio album which attendees of this tour will get a chance to hear in person, $40-$70.

Oh What A Night!

OCTOBER 18, 7 PM

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts

“Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” and “Walk Like A Man”  are just some of the many hits patrons enjoy from the dynamic songbook of those boys from Jersey, Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons. Between the score of recognizable tunes, and non-stop dancing, the Broadway show also delivers informative and often hilarious banter between the high-spirited cast, $70

Jazz Jam Music Series

OCTOBER 20, 8 PM | Ritz Theatre & Museum Jazz at the Ritz continues with the Noel Freidline Quintet. Get up close and personal with one of the hottest jazz artists in the Southeast and a local favorite in Friedline, $24-$35

The Jax City Blues Festival

OCTOBER 20, 8 PM

Jacksonville Center for Performing Arts

The Blues is Alright Tour features five sultry singers taking the stage for a night of emotive lyrics and guitar-driven performances, $59-$125

Gabriel Iglesias:

Don’t Worry Be

OCTOBER 20, 8 PM

Fluffy

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena

Gabriel Iglesias is the second highest gross-

Constellation Furyk & Friends

OCTOBER 2-8 | Timuquana Country Club

Many of the top PGA TOUR Champions league golfers gather in the River City for this third annual tournament, hosted by the Jim & Tabitha Furyk Foundation. In addition to the professional golf being played on the course, fans can expect a variety of food and libations in the hospitality venues, music, celebrity appearances and, at tourney’s end, a champ taking home the trophy, $25-$300

ing touring comedian. His popularity from his 1 billion YouTube views and his several standup specials such as “One Show Fits All” have earned him legions of fans, $59.50-$650

Orchids in the Garden

OCTOBER 21-22, 9-5 PM

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, Gainesville

The Gainesville Orchid Society annual juried show, Orchids in the Garden, is a two-day event showcasing colorful and fragrant displays of tropical flowers, as well as a variety of landscape plants, garden supplies and more available for sale, free.

Caring Chefs

OCTOBER 23, 6-9 PM | The Glass Factory

One of Northeast Florida’s original foodie fundraisers, a benefit for Children’s Home Society, returns for its 38th incarnation. Among the approximately 20 participating restaurants are River & Post, TacoLu, Seasons 52, Wicked Barley, Terra Gaucho and Town Hall, $25-$300

Rocky Horror Picture Show

OCTOBER 28, 8 PM | Florida Theatre

The ultimate Halloween movie, Rocky Horror is now a cult classic, preserved by the Library of Congress! The 1975 musical is a tribute to the science fiction “B Movies” of the ’40s and ’50s. Its amazing cast includes then-young actors Tim Curry as mad scientist Dr. Frank N. Furter, Susan Sarandon, and Barry Bostwick as the heroine and hero, $15

Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair

NOVEMBER 2-12 | Jacksonville Fairgrounds

It’s that time of the year again. The Jax Fair is back, so get ready to devour funnel cakes, corn dogs and cotton candy and brave the Ferris wheels, carousels, and other stomach-churning rides in this annual festival. Livestock and educational agricultural exhibition and nightly live concerts, too,

Two Girls One Podcast

NOVEMBER 4, 8 PM

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall

For six years, Corinne and Sabrina of the Two Girls One Ghost Podcast have researched and discussed hundreds of haunted places. However, recently the two hosts have found a place so haunted that it inspired one of the most horrific horror movies of our generation. The duo present a never-before-seen live show, grounded in horror, while providing comedic relief and a heartwarming connection, $25-$55

Pam Tillis

NOVEMBER 5, 7 PM

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall

Known for hit songs, “Shake the Sugar Tree” and “Maybe It Was Memphis,” Tillis has found her way as a country singer and songwriter. After a series of false starts, her career took off, and she would go on to give the world three platinum albums and several number-one songs, $56-$76 u

Field of Dreams

BY JOSHUA SMITH | PHOTOS BY ANDREW VARNES

After more than a year of design and construction, the Jacksonville Jaguars officially opened their new training facility, the Miller Electric Center, on July 18. The 2022 AFC South Champions now have their own home den built specifically tailored for running, passing and kicking. The $120-million complex covers 18 acres and includes an indoor football field, two outdoor fields, and fan amenity areas. Inside the main building is a dining hall, meeting spaces, locker room and player lounge, as well as equipment, weight lifting, and training rooms.

 From 5 AM to 10 PM, a nutrition team prepares meals and snacks in the 5,000-square-foot dining hall (three meals and two snacks a day for players). Last year, the team consumed 182 gallons of milk, 500 pounds of pasta, 1,100 pounds of seafood, 1,400 pounds of potatoes, 1,700 pounds of bananas, 2,900 pounds of beef, 5,000 smoothies, 6,500 pounds of chicken, and 10,000 eggs.

 The 10,000-square-foot weight room contains nearly 2,000 square feet dedicated to cardio-specific training. The space is adorned with the team’s colors and logos throughout and perhaps most impressive, during the season, the facility is large enough that the entire team can work out in the weight room at one time.

 The Center has plenty of plush appointments, too. Players will watch game film in the auditorium, fitted with 153 DreamSeat recliners. The projectors and screens are theater-quality, enhancing the film watching experience.

 The training rooms have 12 treatment tables and six taping tables, and two medical examination rooms. Players in need of hydrotherapy can use the three in-ground pools. Each pool is different—one hot, one cold, and the third having an underwater treadmill, cameras, and monitoring system. Also, there are DreamSeat zero-gravity massage chairs, cryotherapy chamber, float tank, LED beds, and a cocoon pod.

 The Center’s indoor field has two hanging goal posts and a pair of accompanying scoreboards. The field’s 71-foot ceiling allows for kickers to boot the pigskin without caution. Matrix Helix turf, Geo CoolFill infill, and a Cushdrain pad were installed to increase durability. In addition, Geo CoolFill contains a full sprinkler system that reduces surface temperatures up to 40 degrees, an especially nice feature during Florida summers. The on-field action at practice can be recorded by eight, 8K cameras.

 For fans, the 2,090-seat grandstand is fully shaded and is outfitted with nine cooling fans and an overhead speaker system. For fans looking for something to eat, drink, or wear, there are two concession stands, as well as a team merchandise shop. u

Charitable R E G IS TE R

Spotlighting local nonprofit organizations, fundraising events & reasons to give back and get involved

NOW IN ITS 21ST YEAR, Jacksonville Magazine’s Charitable Register is a resource for readers looking to support the First Coast’s many nonprofit organizations, give back to the community and otherwise help make the region a better place in which to live. This annual special section is designed to provide details on numerous charities including information about their respective missions and how people can contribute to each—whether that be attending a special fundraising event, making a donation or rolling up their sleeves and pitching in.

The past few years have been especially challenging for many nonprofit organizations, grassroots groups that rely on community involvement and especially fundraising events, scores of which were cancelled for more than a year. But the work continues and these and other local charitable causes need your support perhaps now more than ever.

Editor’s Note: Please check to confirm all information regarding events listed here. Dates are subject to change.

BEACHES DIAL-A-RIDE

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Lori Anderson, Executive Director

MAILING ADDRESS:

281 19th Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

PHONE NUMBER: 904.246.1477

WEB ADDRESS: beachescoa.org

MISSION STATEMENT: The Beaches Council on Aging improves the quality of life for senior residents of the Beaches by connecting them to people, services, and places, with care.

BEACHES FINE ART SERIES

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Kathy Wallis, Executive Director

MAILING ADDRESS:

1150 5th St., N. Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

PHONE NUMBER: 904.270.1771

WEB ADDRESS: beachesfinearts.org

MISSION STATEMENT: To enrich our communities by sharing the transforming power of music and art, free to all.

THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Paul Martinez, President & CEO

MAILING ADDRESS:

P.O. Box 2059, Jacksonville, FL 32203

WEB ADDRESS: bgcnf.org

MISSION STATEMENT: To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:

4th Annual Beaches BBQ Bash, November 2, 6 PM, Atlantic Beach BBQ.

8th Annual Beaches Boys & Girls Club Golf Tournament, November 6, 11 AM, Atlantic Beach Country Club.

14th Annual McKenzie’s Run, November 18, 8:30 AM 1-Mile Fun Run, 9 AM 5K, The Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass.

2024 Youth of the Year, February 22, 2024, 6 PM, Florida Blue Conference Center.

raiser for the Cathedral Arts Project. Generating nearly $8 million since its inception, it is the most visible event supporting arts education in Northeast Florida. Tickets $250; Sponsorships available starting at $1,500.

CATHEDRAL ARTS PROJECT

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Kimberly L. Hyatt, President & CEO

MAILING ADDRESS:

207 N. Laura St., Suite 300 Jacksonville, FL 32202

PHONE NUMBER: 904.281.5599

WEB ADDRESS: capkids.org

MISSION STATEMENT: The Cathedral Arts Project’s mission is to empower every child’s creative spirit, elevate arts educators in their field, and advocate for access and equity in arts education. CAP’s vision is for Northeast Florida to lead the nation in providing essential and accessible arts education that recognizes, grows and amplifies every child’s unique skills and strengths.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:

7th Annual CAP Golf Tournament, October 2, 2023, Deerwood Country Club. Join the Cathedral Arts Project for the 7th Annual Golf Tournament, presented by Fickling Construction, to raise funds in support of arts education for school-aged children in Northeast Florida. Visit capkids.org/golf to learn more. Sponsorships available starting at $500.

19th Annual Spring for the Arts, Friday, April 26, 2024, Epping Forest Yacht & Country Club. Spring for the Arts is the signature fund-

CATHOLIC CHARITIES

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Lori Weber, Regional Director

MAILING ADDRESS:

40 East Adams St., Suite 320 Jacksonville, FL 32202

PHONE NUMBER: 904.354.4846

WEB ADDRESS: CCBjax.org

MISSION STATEMENT: Catholic Charities Jacksonville, a highly esteemed organization affiliated with the Diocese of St. Augustine, has a strong foundation rooted in faith while fostering a universal focus. With our unwavering commitment to transforming the lives of our community’s most vulnerable, we are proud to continuously succeed in addressing fundamental human needs, reinstating dignity, and aiding in the journey toward self-reliance. Our nonprofit has been instrumental in providing comprehensive services through core programs that range from emergency assistance to legal services for immigrants. We are also deeply invested in the successful resettlement of refugees and passion-

ately conduct camps and engaging activities designed to enrich the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental differences.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENT:

Black & White Soiree, April 20, 2024,. Adam W. Herbert University Center, University of North Florida

CHILDREN'S HOME SOCIETY

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Andry Sweet, President & CEO

MAILING ADDRESS:

3027 San Diego Rd., Jacksonville FL 32207

PHONE NUMBER: 904.493.7744

WEB ADDRESS: chsfl.org

MISSION STATEMENT: Children's Home Society delivers the right services at the right time to help children and families through the most difficult times of their lives, working to help keep more kids safe at home with their families, giving parents confidence and opportunities to build upon their strengths, and empowering them to raise their children in healthy, nurturing homes.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:

The 39th Annual Caring Chefs, October 8, 6-9 PM at the Glass Factory. This wonderful evening is filled with more than food, drinks and entertainment—it’s filled with hope as we raise critical funds to support kids and families. Caring Chefs is an annual favorite in Jacksonville that brings together the area’s finest chefs, som-

meliers and brewers, along with guests and volunteers, to raise much-needed funds to help our community’s children and families. Tickets start at $80.

DLC NURSE AND LEARN

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Heather Corey, Executive Director

MAILING ADDRESS:

4101-1 College St., Jacksonville, FL 32205

PHONE NUMBER: 904.387.0370

WEB ADDRESS: DLCNL.org

COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Leon Baxton, CEO

MAILING ADDRESS:

532 Riverside Ave, Suite 3-OH, Jacksonville, FL 32202

PHONE NUMBER: 904.344.3900

WEB ADDRESS: CISjax.org

MISSION STATEMENT: The mission of Communities In Schools is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:  Rising Stars! May 2, at the Florida Theatre

MISSION STATEMENT: The Developmental Learning Center (DLC) provides year-round high-quality education, nursing care, and therapies to children of all abilities so that children and families have the opportunity to reach their maximum potential.

DANIEL FOUNDATION

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Lesley Wells, President/CEO

MAILING ADDRESS:

4203 Southpoint Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32257

PHONE NUMBER: 904.296.1055

WEB ADDRESS: danielkids.org

MISSION STATEMENT: Daniel’s mission is to improve the lives of children and families.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:

23rd Annual Hank Haynes Golf Classic, April 29, 2024, at Timuquana Country Club

DECK THE CHAIRS

CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Kurtis Loftus, Founder/Executive Director

MAILING ADDRESS:

3948 3rd Street South, #372, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

PHONE NUMBER: 904.716.3853

WEB ADDRESS: deckthechairs.org

MISSION STATEMENT: Promoting Children’s Arts and Arts Education

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:

2023 Chair Affair, November 21, Margaritaville Hotel, Jacksonville Beach. Deck the Chairs is a free, six-week, holiday event featuring nationally recognized and decorated lifeguard chairs in a breathtaking holiday exhibit. Chair sponsorships help underwrite holiday park lighting, support student exhibits, and allow organizers to showcase more than 30 hours of children's stage programming. Located at the Seawalk Pavilion and Latham Plaza Park in Jacksonville Beach, opening weekend of Deck the Chairs will take place on November 24-26 from 6 to 9 PM. Come out to support young artists your Jacksonville community.

DOWNTOWN ECUMENICAL SERVICES COUNCIL

CHIEF EXECUTIVE: David Clark, Executive Director

MAILING ADDRESS: 215 N. Ocean St., Jacksonville, FL 32202

PHONE NUMBER: 904.358.3135

WEB ADDRESS: descjax.org

MISSION STATEMENT: To proclaim the love of Jesus Christ by meeting the needs of people in emergency situations or experi -

Kind Hearted Stranger’s

Saturday, September 9th, 8:00pm

encing poverty. Our vision is for individuals and families to achieve and sustain financial stability and independence.

Sarah Shook and the Disarmers

ELDER SOURCE

CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Linda Levin, CEO

MAILING ADDRESS: 10688 Old St. Augustine Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32257

Illiterate Light

Friday, November 17th, 8:00pm

Tickets

PHONE NUMBER: 904.391.6600

WEB ADDRESS: MyElderSource.org

MISSION STATEMENT: ElderSource empowers people to live and age with independence and dignity in their homes and community.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:  A Night with the Stars, Wednesday, November 15, 2023, 5:30–8 PM, at WJCT Studios

FRIENDS OF JAMES WELDON JOHNSON PARK

CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Liz McCoy, Executive Director

MAILING ADDRESS: 214 N. Hogan St., Suite 114, Jacksonville, FL 32202

PHONE NUMBER: 904.515.5098

WEB ADDRESS: jamesweldonjohnsonpark.org

MISSION STATEMENT: Friends of James  Weldon Johnson Park’s mission is to create a welcoming, urban public space that engages with our history and nurtures a sense of belonging, which connects our diverse communities and resonates throughout Downtown.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:  Brew & BBQ, September 9, 4-10 PM

GABRIEL HOUSE OF CARE

CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Valerie Callahan, Executive Director

PHONE NUMBER: 904.512.6084

WEB ADDRESS: galfirstcoast.org

MISSION STATEMENT: To promote a “community of healing” environment by providing affordable, temporary lodging for adult organ transplant and cancer patients as well as their caregivers who come to Jacksonville for medical treatment.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:   Fall Golf Tournament, October 3, at The Yards, Ponte Vedra Beach

GUARDIAN AD LITEM FOUNDATION

CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Felecia Walker, Board Chair

MAILING ADDRESS:

P.O. Box 10198, Jacksonville, FL 32247

PHONE NUMBER: 904.512.6084

WEB ADDRESS: galfirstcoast.org

MISSION STATEMENT: The Guardian ad Litem Foundation (GALF) is dedicated to helping abused, neglected and abandoned children who have been removed from their home as they navigate the dependency and foster system. GALF provides programming and initiatives that benefit these children directly in various ways, including the Recruitment and Training of Guardian Volunteers so more child abuse victims can be represented in court; providing Normalcy Programming so that basic necessities are available to youth so that they can assimilate and thrive; and through The Empowerment Scholarship, which provides additional support to youth seeking to rise above their circumstances by furthering their post-secondary education.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:

GALF’s annual fundraiser, There’s No Place Like Home, is November 4, 2023, at the Garden Club of Jacksonville. GALF has committed to raising $100,000 for this event to help support our mission and needs the help of the community to meet or exceed this goal. Please join us for an Emerald City Worthy Event, including tasty bites, spirits, a live auction and live music to support the cause.

IN THE PINK

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Kevin Switick, Board Of Directors Chair

MAILING ADDRESS:

522 Third St., N. Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

PHONE NUMBER: 904.372.0029

WEB ADDRESS: jaxinthepink.com

MISSION STATEMENT: To provide access to the items and services that women with cancer need to make this journey more palatable, while being treated with the dignity they deserve.

JACKSONVILLE CHILDREN'S CHORUS

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Darren Dailey, President & Artistic Director

MAILING ADDRESS:

62 N. Main St., Jacksonville, FL 32202

PHONE NUMBER: 904.353.1636

WEB ADDRESS: JaxChildrensChorus.org

MISSION STATEMENT: The mission of the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus is to provide a high-quality choral music education for children of diverse backgrounds, fostering teamwork, self-discipline, accomplishment, and pride while filling an important cultural need in the community and sharing the beauty of the choral art form through artistically excellent performances.

JACKSONVILLE SYMPHONY

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Steven B. Libman, President & CEO

MAILING ADDRESS:

300 Water St., Suite 200 Jacksonville, FL 32202

PHONE NUMBER: 904.354.5479

WEB ADDRESS: jaxsymphony.org

MISSION STATEMENT: Our mission is to enrich the human spirit through symphonic music.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:  Symphony Gala, March 2, 2024

KATE AMATO FOUNDATION

CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Lisa Amato, PhD & Founder

MAILING ADDRESS:

135 Professional Dr., Ste. 102, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

PHONE NUMBER: 904.629.8300

WEB ADDRESS: KateAmatoFoundation.org

MISSION STATEMENT: Kate Amato Foundation is dedicated to finding safer, smarter, and more effective treatments for childhood cancer by supporting innovative research to advance the pace of progress and save young lives.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:  September is Child Cancer Awareness Month. You can provide direct support to children fighting cancer by donating to KATE’S KINDNESS PROJECT which delivers care packages to local children at Wolfson Children’s Hospital. Details are available on our website.

Announcing the inaugural Kate Kombo Golf and Pickleball Tournament on October 20. The first-ever simultaneous Golf and Pickleball tournaments will be held at The Yards in Sawgrass. Pick your favorite, register to play, and join us for a day of FUN and fundraising. All levels are welcome and spectator tickets are available.

KATE KUP 2024 will be in April. The TRIPLES TENNIS TOURNAMENT hosted at The Yards in Sawgrass sells out each year and is a great time for participants and spectators alike.

LIGHTNER MUSEUM

CHIEF EXECUTIVE: David Bagnall, Executive Director

MAILING ADDRESS: 75 King St, Saint Augustine, FL 32084

School

Subscription Fundraisers!

Jacksonville Magazine is always looking for new, exciting ways to partner with the community in which we live and work. We do this through many avenues, including promoting hundreds of fundraisers each year, and by offering fundraising partnerships to our local schools.

Ask us how we can help raise money for your school’s clubs and teams! Please contact Jessica at: jess@jacksonvillemag.com

PHONE NUMBER: 904.824.2874

WEB ADDRESS: lightnermuseum.org

MISSION STATEMENT: To inspire curiosity, excite minds, and enrich lives through our unique collection, historic building, and dynamic exhibitions and programs.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:  Sing Out Loud Festival Showcase: Jazz in the Pool with Ramona the Duo , September 8, 6-8 PM. Enjoy an evening of live music by Ramona the Duo in the historic Alcazar swimming pool. This event is open to the community. Donations will be kindly accepted.

Jazz in the Garden with Raisin Cake Orchestra, October 11, 6-8 PM. Spend a relaxing evening in the Radzinski Family Garden with Raisin Cake Orchestra. This is a free community event.

Opening Reception: The Triumph of Nature: Art Nouveau from the Chrysler Museum of Art, November 17, 7-10 PM. Enjoy an exclusive first look at the exhibition during an Art Nouveau-inspired evening featuring cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, with live music by Miami’s French Horn Collective. Tickets and more information available at lightnermuseum.org

St. Francis House Festival of Trees , December 4 - 7. Visit the front lobby at the Lightner to view and bid on Christmas trees decorated by local businesses to benefit the St. Francis House Port in the Storm.

Holiday Market, December 7, 5-9 PM. Shop from a curated selection of local artisans and small businesses around the historic swimming pool. Festive music by Raisin Cake Orchestra.

LJD JEWISH FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICES

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Colleen Rodriguez, Executive Director

MAILING ADDRESS: 8540 Baycenter Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256

PHONE NUMBER: 904.448.1933

WEB ADDRESS: JFCSJax.org

MISSION STATEMENT: Strengthening the entire Northeast Florida Community by providing support services in the Jewish tradition of helping people help themselves.

HELPING PEOPLE HELP THEMSELVES

It’s nice to know that when you donate to The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services, your gift will assist people of all ages, races, religions and backgrounds throughout Northeast Florida. You can also count on our 100+ years of experience to ensure your contribution is being spent wisely. And, no matter which of our diverse, quality programs resonates with you the most, you can be confident they are all that focused on our guiding mission: helping people help themselves.

With your donation, you can be a part of strengthening local families through our:

Mental health counseling

Emergency assistance programs

Child abuse prevention services

Holocaust and tolerance education

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:  Annual Spring Fundraiser on April 18

Donate Today at JFCSJax.org

after-party with open bar immediately following the event.

MAKE A WISH FOUNDATION

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Anne Cuba, President & CEO

MAILING ADDRESS:

3938 Sunbeam Rd., Suite 3 Jacksonville, FL 32257

PHONE NUMBER: 904.580.5906

WEB ADDRESS: wish.org/cnfl/Jacksonville

MISSION STATEMENT: Together we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:

The Wishmaker’s Ball Jacksonville, returning for the 3rd year August 26 at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa. The Wishmaker’s Ball Jacksonville is the organization’s signature black-tie gala that raises money to grant the heart felt wishes of children who are facing life-threatening illnesses in our local communities. The evening includes a three-course dinner, open bar, silent and live auctions, featured wish stories from local wish kids, and a separate

MISSION HOUSE

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Lucas Seilhymer, Executive Director

MAILING ADDRESS:

800 Shetter Ave., Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

PHONE NUMBER: 904.241.6767

WEB ADDRESS: misssionhousejax.org

MISSION STATEMENT: Mission House exists to empower individuals affected by homelessness in the Beaches area by providing food, clothing, medical care and support services with an avenue to self-sufficiency.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:  The Grazie Gala , October 21, 5-9 PM at the Palm Valley Barn in Ponte Vedra Beach.

PACE CENTER FOR GIRLS

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Chantell Miles, Executive Director

MAILING ADDRESS:

2933 University Blvd. N., Jacksonville, FL 32211

PHONE NUMBER: 904.448.8002

WEB ADDRESS: pacecenter.org

MISSION STATEMENT: Pace provides girls and young women an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training and advocacy.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:  6th Annual Fall Into Fashion Show, November 16

Holiday Gifts and Food Basket Drives are ongoing in October and November. Thanksgiving and holiday-season drives that ensure our girls and their families have a happier holiday season.

PROJECT COLD CASE

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Ryan Backmann, Founder & Executive Director

MAILING ADDRESS:

10 S. Newnan St., Suite #1, Jacksonville, FL 32202

PHONE NUMBER: 904.525.8080

WEB ADDRESS: projectcoldcase.org

MISSION STATEMENT: Cold Case provides long-term emotional support to cold case victims’ families through support groups, counseling, and case-specific next-step approaches for advancing investigations, all while working to publicize cold cases long out of the public eye and bridging the gap between families and law enforcement.

SULZBACHER CENTER

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Cindy Funkhouser, President & CEO

MAILING ADDRESS:

611 E. Adams St., Jacksonville, FL 32202

PHONE NUMBER: 904.359.0457

WEB ADDRESS: sulzbacherjax.org

MISSION STATEMENT: The mission of Sulzbacher is to provide our community with affordable access to housing, healthcare, and opportunities for economic growth.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:  Transformations, October 19, 5:30 PM.  Sulzbacher’s annual Transformations has been described as the “Feel-Good Event of the Year.” Join us as we celebrate people whose lives have been transformed through Sulzbacher’s services.

WOLFSON CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL WOMEN’S BOARD

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Kendra McCrary, President

MAILING ADDRESS:

1325 San Marco Blvd., Suite 802, Jacksonville, FL 32207

PHONE NUMBER: 904.202.2886

WEB ADDRESS: womensboardwch.com

MISSION STATEMENT: The Women’s Board strives to further awareness in the community of the services and remarkable facilities of Wolfson Children’s Hospital and to raise funds to ensure the best healthcare for each and every child who comes through the hospital’s doors.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS:

The First Coast Design Show continues the traditions of the Art & Antiques Show by welcoming beloved art and antique dealers, designers and artists to celebrate “the Art of Gathering,” December 1-3, at the Prime F. Osborn Convention Center.

The 2023-2024 Florida Forum features renowned speakers including Duke University men’s basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski, Silicon Valley icon Steve Wozniak and Admiral James Stavridis (Ret.).

Wish List

R UNNING A NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION MEANS ALWAYS HOPING FOR MORE—more volunteers, more contributions, more resources to fulfill the mission about which the group was established. So, as part of this year’s Charitable Register, we asked our participating organizations to share one “wish” they have for the remainder of 2023. Posted here are some of their answers. Perhaps you, your family, or business could help make a wish come true this year.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES JACKSONVILLE

Catholic Charities Jacksonville is actively seeking the vital contribution of an additional Suburban or a largecapacity van, or a cargo van, crucial for food distribution. Donating either or indeed both key assets would significantly boost our capacity to serve those most in need within our community.

DLC NURSE AND LEARN

DLC’s wish is to expand, add new locations and serve more special needs and medically complex students and their families.

GABRIEL HOUSE OF CARE

Food supplies for our food pantry with items listed on our website such as granola bars, canned foods, soups, popcorn, fresh vegetables, fruits, coffee and sugar.

GUARDIAN AD LITEM FOUNDATION

BEACHES DIAL A RIDE

A brand-new wheelchair capable, 10-passenger van.

BEACHES FINE ART CENTER

We’d like to expand our reach with increased corporate support of our free concert series and award-winning educational programs, both of which do so much for our communities.

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB

Our wish is to have even more support from our wonderful community through event sponsorships and attendance so we can serve all the young people in our community who can benefit

from our after-school and summer programs. This would ensure all young people have a supportive place to go after school where they receive a hot meal, homework assistance, quality programs and loving support.

Our wish in the coming year for GALF is to develop and nurture long-term relationships with local businesses and partners for the greater good of the children in our community.

KATE AMATO FOUNDATION

Our wish for Kate Amato Foundation is to grow and expand our impact for children with cancer. Our hope is to strengthen existing partnerships and develop new relationships with companies and individuals who share our vision of developing safer and more effective treatments for pediatric cancer. We achieve this by increasing our grant funding year over year to support more research projects, increasing our awareness programs including Kate’s Kindness Project and the KATE KLUB, and establishing full-time operations with office space and staff.

MAKE A WISH FOUNDATION

Our wish this year is to reach even more eligible children in need of a wish in our Northeast Florida community and to inspire the hope and strength they need to help them combat their critical illness.

PROJECT COLD CASE

Our one wish would be that an organization like ours wasn’t needed. Donations can be made through our website

WOLFSON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL

Our wish is that every child in the region has access to the highest quality pediatric healthcare. That the medical teams at Wolfson Children’s Hospital have the very best equipment and facilities specially designed for the needs of children and their families. That Kids Kare medical transport services are readily available when needed. u

Ollie Labrador Mix

Jacksonville magazine’s

OVERNIGHT BOARDING Pet Paradise

Sleepovers aren’t just for kids! Bring your pet to Pet Paradise for home-away-from-home pampering. They’ll enjoy daily exercise, naptime, climate-controlled suites, bone-shaped swimming pools and sweet cuddles with human friends. Pets are watched over with careful, caring eyes, with real-time webcams and on-site veterinary care. A repeat Best In Pets winner and with multiple locations throughout Florida, Pet Paradise is a peaceful wonderland for your pet.

LUXURY PET SPLURGE Sawgrass Pet Resort

We all need a vacation sometimes, even our pets! At Sawgrass Pet Resort, a repeat winner of Best In Pets, pups enjoy relaxing, safe and active respite from their busy lives at home. Your dog will experience the ultimate indulgence with options for bedtime stories, full body massages, ice cream and baked good treats and one-on-one play time. Offering boarding, daycare, grooming and training, you can trust that at Sawgrass Pet Resort, your dog gets the very best.

CARPET CLEANING/ODOR REMOVAL First Coast Home Pros

2023

PET PORTRAITS BY AZ PHOTO JAX

WORDS BY KARA POUND

We like to think of this annual readers’ poll and feature article as something of a collective belly rub for all of Northeast Florida’s cute and cuddly animal companions. After all, our beloved pets are true members of the family. We share trips with them, include them in Christmas cards and increasingly spend ridiculous amounts of cash on them in order to make them healthy and happy.

So, once again, Jax Mag asked readers to make recommendations for a variety of local services ranging from doggie daycare to feed store. Well, the recommendations came pouring in. More than 3,000 votes were cast offering personal choices for best pet-friendly bar, local animal rescue organization, grooming services, public park, horse trails, luxury pet splurge and more. The results of the 2023 Best in Pets poll are listed here. Judging by the winners, First Coast cats and dogs are in good hands.

And, as we often say, “Who’s a good boy? You are! Yes, you are!”

As much as we love our pets, they can bring stinky smells to our carpet, furniture and anywhere else in our homes they find to nestle in for a nap. That’s why the experts at First Coast Home Pros are kept busy keeping Bold City abodes fresh from pet odors. A repeat offender coming off their 2022 Best In Pets win, First Coast Home Pros offer up all kinds of cleaning services ranging from carpet and upholstery to drapery and chandelier cleaning. We’re not sure how Fido got up on that chandelier, but it must have been some kind of party.

DOGGIE DAY CARE Central Bark

You wouldn’t just hire some random person you met in Target to watch after your kids, right? So why not be as discerning when it comes to who you trust for pet care? Whether it’s an Apple Head Chihuahua, larger-than-life Great Dane or that senior rescue from the local Humane Society, repeat Best In Pets winner, Central Bark, offers doggie day care services that will put your mind at east. Located on San Jose Boulevard, Central Barks’ Enrichment Doggy Day Care gives your dog a place to play and learn in a safe and loving environment with socialization, mental stimulation and exercise.

PET PHOTOGRAPHY AZ Photo Jax

Nobody knows your pet’s personality better than you! After all, you’ve probably spent countless hours staring at that adorable, furry face and who wouldn’t want that captured for a lifetime? That’s where AZ Photo Jax comes in. With multiple Best In Jax wins under their belt, Abra Zawacki, owner of AZ Photo Jax, and her team has mastered the art of pet portraits. “We did an hour-long session with my three dogs who came in nervous, but she instantly eased their nerves with patience and treats! The shots are beautiful! Highly, highly recommend!” says one testimonial on the website.

EMERGENCY VET SERVICES

First Coast Veterinary Specialists

Accidents happen. Whether it’s a haphazardly swallowed chew toy or a tussle with the neighborhood bully, pets can need emergency veterinary services in the most inopportune times. That’s why First Coast Veterinary Specialists offers First Coast Veterinary

Furever Vets Central Urgent Care

If your pet is injured or sick and it’s after hours, our emergency services provide immediate help with the best possible care for your furry friend. Our daily extended hour urgent care unit is here for you and your pet whenever you need us.

Furever Vets Central Urgent Care is located conveniently off of Baymeadows and 295 (highway).

Emergency services offered...urinary blockage, laceration repair, hit by a car, poison ingestion, bloating, heat stroke, vomiting, severe bleeding, animal bites/ fights, diabetic shock, seizures, and more.

There are never any walk in fees! open from noon-midnight 7 days a week!

904-375-3995

Furever Vets Central Pet Resort

pet Perks at Central Pet Resort:

• VIP Suites - spacious themed suites for pets to stay in

• LIVE Cameras - watch your pets play the day away in various spots in our resort

• Extra Paw-Space - extra room for your pet to stretch out in

• Media Packages - wanna see your pet while your way, stay updated on all the latest pictures of your pet playing

• Arts n Crafts - want your pet to make a memory to cherish forever

• Pet Ice Cream - everyone deserves a sweet treat when they are on vacation

• Various Play Options - solo play, group play, etc

• Daycare Themed Events - monthly/seasonal events to get pets involved

• Indoor & Outdoor Play Yards - Roomy, climate-controlled indoor play area for big and small dogs

• Splash Pad & Heart Shaped Pool - Shaded outdoor play areas with splash zones, misting stations and, our signature heart shaped pool

• Cozy Cat Oasis - Private cat condos including access to a cat oasis with cat trees, scratching posts and a play fountain

• Birthday Pawties & Celebration of Life Events - NEW feature

• Grooming - Experienced groomers to make your pet look PAWSITIVELY fabulous

• Urgent Care Facility On Site - in same building

• Friendly Experienced Staff - Forever Vets family

Welcome to Forever Vets

Central Pet Resort!

A safe environment is provided for all your pet boarding & daycare needs!

We provide a comfortable place for your pets while you are away and ensure your fourlegged friend is safe and happy during their stay. Our goal is to make sure your pet feels at home with treats and the attention deserved when you board your cat or dog. Our pet boarding area is designed with your pet in mind; to suit each pet's personality and comfort.

We offer daycare services during the day along with grooming!

Emergency (FCVER) in Jacksonville Beach for 24/7 care. The hospital has diagnostic and monitoring capabilities such as in-house laboratory testing and blood pressure monitoring as well as a fully equipped surgical suite and intensive care unit. Of course, every pet owner hopes to never have an emergency, but if you do, you know where to turn.

FEED STORE Standard Feed & Seed

Pets come in all different shapes, sizes and colors. Some people like to keep chickens in their backyard while others have a Casper mattress for their prized Afghan Hound. Big or small, Standard Feed & Seed is the Bold City’s choice when it comes to choosing high quality food for your pets. They specialize in food for birds, cats, chickens, dogs, fish, guinea pigs, rabbits, cows, horses, pigs—even ostriches, rodents and tortoises. “Love this place! Everyone is super helpful and sweet. You feel like you’re chatting with friends,” said one Google reviewer.

DOG TRAINING SERVICE Maggie Marshall Dog Training

Although all dogs go to Heaven, not all of them are born Saints. That’s why some pups need a little help being the best-behaved versions of themselves. Whether it’s learning to walk on a leash, potty training or just getting along with other dogs, Maggie Marshall Dog Training on Beach Boulevard is our reader’s choice for a wide variety of dog

training services. “Just a great way to spend a Saturday morning,” wrote one Yelp reviewer. “My pup loves it and Maggie has taught us lots!”

PET SHOP Pet Supplies Plus

According to Forbes, Americans spent $136.8 billion on their pets in 2022. That’s a lot of chew toys and treats! Carrying the best in quality and convenience, Pet Supplies Plus is a one-stop shop for dogs, cats, birds, fish, reptiles and more. Offering grooming, a bakery, pet care clinic and natural, made-in-the-USA pet foods, get everything you need at this repeat Best In Pets offender. Shopping is easy with one-hour curbside pickup, same day delivery and multiple locations throughout Florida.

VETERINARIAN Forever Vets

Pets are family members, best friends and cherished loved ones, and Forever Vets understands that they deserve the best in veterinarian care. A repeat Best In Pets winner, with 12 locations throughout Northeast Florida, Forever Vets has dedicated and caring staff that is devoted to the health and wellness of your pet. Whether your furry friend is in need of a full-service animal hospital, emergency vet services, grooming or standard medical treatments, you can rest assured they’re in loving, attentive hands.

LATEST PET CRAZE Cat Cafés

Last year, our readers were into dog yoga. This year, Cat Cafés take the number one spot for ‘Latest Pet Craze.’ And while cat cafés have been around since the first one opened in Taipei, Taiwan in 1998, it has only been about five years since the United States jumped on the trend. So, whether you visit The Caffeinated Cat Café in Jacksonville Beach or one of the two cat cafés in St. Augustine (Frisky Cat Café and The Witty Whisker Cat Café, respectively), enjoy a tasty beverage, pet a few cats and maybe even take one home with you as most cat cafés are coffee shop/pet rescue with adoption options. Now that’s purrrrfect!

LOCAL ANIMAL RESCUE ORGANIZATION S.A.F.E. Pet Rescue

Founded in 2008, S.A.F.E. (which stands for ‘Saving Animals From Euthanasia) Pet Rescue has rescued more 28,000 animals from kill shelters and placed them in loving, safe homes. This St. Augustine-based nonprofit organization (and repeat Best In Pets champ) runs entirely on donations from community members and boasts a large army of loyal volunteers who run S.A.F.E.’s resale shop in St. Augustine Beach and its various adoption center locations. So, whether you’re looking to rescue a Chihuahua-Terrier Mix named Blueberry or have dreams of welcoming an American Bulldog named Maximus to your family, check in with the friendly folks at S.A.F.E.

Dr. Heather Avery, DVM, & Hunter Husky

PET-FRIENDLY BAR BrewHound Dog Park + Bar

For another year in a row, BrewHound Dog Park + Bar in Neptune Beach takes the top seed for Best ‘Pet-Friendly Bar’ in the 904. And it makes a lot of sense because if you mix beer with dogs, you’ve got a winning combination. BrewHound is a unique gathering place for dogs and their owners to play and mingle outside while enjoying a delicious, cold beverage. There’s pet-friendly turf grass, various fenced areas to separate small and large dogs, a doggie splash pad, beer garden with locally sourced craft beer, wine on tap, Bold Bean specialty coffee and soooooooooooo much more.

ACCESSORY AND TOY SHOP Bark on Park

Located in Historic 5 Points, Best In Pets newcomer, Bark on Park, has the most paw-some “merch” for humans and fourlegged best friends alike. With a variety of innovative toys and accessories, spoil your pup with something new to destroy — and don’t forget to pick yourself up something to show off whether you’re team cat or team dog (‘Dog Vibes Only’ tee anyone?).This cool boutique that was established back in 2009 also offers daycare, grooming, boarding and training, as well as delicious nutritious treats. It’s easy to show the world how much you love your pup at Bark on Park.

ANNUAL PET FRIENDLY EVENT Mutt Market

Animal lovers unite at Jacksonville Humane Society’s Mutt Market, a repeat Best In Pets winner. An annual festival of fun, both ends of the leash are sure to enjoy the local vendor market of crafters, bakers, doggie masseuses and food trucks. Bring a friend to relish in cute pups and maybe even take one home with free adoptions. Grab a drink for yourself and a pupcake for your pet while engaging with your fur-community and supporting local animals in need. And don’t forget to shop ‘til you drop with the Market’s famous $10 pet supply fill-a-bag!

AVIAN VETERINARY SERVICES Exotic Bird Hospital

Take your “tweetheart” to this repeat Best In Pets winner for the best avian and exotic animal health care. Specializing in feathered, furry and scaly friends, Exotic Bird & Animal Hospital is dedicated to preventive and informed care. Board your pet, request a house call or stock up on needed meds and top-rated pet foods. Whether it’s your set of lovebirds named Peanut Butter and Jelly or a sassy Cockatoo named Marshmallow, your extraordinary pet will be treated with extraordinary care here.

BIRD FOOD AND FEEDERS Wild Birds Unlimited

Singing the blues? Wild Birds Unlimited has everything you need to bring feathered joy to your backyard. These local bird feeding experts identify exactly what food and feeder you need to attract daily, seasonal and rare birds. Offering hobby guides, bird food, feeders, baths and houses, this Best In Pets repeat winner will ensure nature takes flight in your own backyard with sightings of everything from Northern Cardinals and Mourning Doves to Red-Bellied Woodpeckers and Painted Buntings.

DOG-FRIENDLY HOTEL One Ocean Resort & Spa

No one wants to leave home without their furry family, and at One Ocean Resort & Spa you don’t have to! This petfriendly resort (and newcomer to Best In Pets) in Atlantic Beach treats their four-legged guests with the same pawsome service as their two-legged guests. Enjoy a full-service spa, award-winning cuisine, luxurious amenities and ocean views. There will never be a ruff vacation day at One Ocean.

Polu

Boston Terrier

Animal C are of Po Ponte Ve Vedra

Helping Pets, Caring f Family: Welcome to Animal Care of Ponte Vedra

At Animal Care of Ponte Vedra, our motto is simple: “Helping people help their pets.” We understand that pets are cherished members of the family, and we invite you to be part of our extended family. Since 2010, we’ve been dedicated to providing the highest quality of care for your furry companions. As a full-service, one-stop hospital, we handle everything from unexpected emergencies to grooming needs to the latest diagnostic capabilities, ensuring your pets are well taken care of.

MEET OUR EXPERT TEAM:

Dr. John von Kieckebusch: Originally from St. Augustine, Dr. John has been practicing in northeast Florida for over a decade. He specializes in echocardiograms and ultrasonography, having graduated from the prestigious W.A.V.E. Imaging Academy in Texas. Dr. John’s passion for French Bulldogs inspired him to pursue echocardiography. He’s excited to bring his advanced skills to Animal Care of Ponte Vedra, ensuring your pets receive the highest quality care.

Dr. Tara McFarland: Hailing from Shenandoah Valley, Virginia, Dr. Tara found her home with us in the fall of 2021. She fell in love with beachside living on the First Coast. Dr. McFarland’s

special interest lie in geriatric medicine, driven by her love for her heart dog “Diego.” She also enjoys tackling challenging dental and surgical cases, providing exceptional care to her patients. Dr. Tara recently welcomed a stray named Buck into her family of rescues.

Dr. Doug McKee: A Nocatee resident, Dr. Doug comes from a strong background in emergency medicine, having previously owned a veterinary specialty hospital in Orange Park for over a decade. Introduced to the profession by his veterinarian father, Dr. McKee carries on the family legacy of providing exceptional care to companion animals. His beloved Boston Terrier, Janie, is always by his side.

WHY CHOOSE ANIMAL CARE OF PONTE VEDRA:

We take pride in being the area leader in cutting-edge medical services. From the latest ultrasound and echocardiogram equipment to surgical and medical lasers, and advanced dental services, we offer the best solutions for your fur babies’ needs.

Join our family today and let us care for your pets as if they were our own.

DR. JOHN VON KIECKEBUSCH

DR. DOUG MCKEE

DR. TARA MCFARLAND

DOG PARK Paws Park, Jacksonville Beach

A membership playground for dog owners and their favorite furry friends, Paws Park in Wingate Park in Jacksonville Beach offers safety and freedom so Fido can get some off-leash exercise. Members must pay an annual fee to receive a gate pass and tag for their dog before enjoying amenities like the large-dog area, small-dog area, watering bowls, benches and educational bulletin board. Bring along plenty of poop bags because Fido is sure to make new friends, and maybe you’ll bond with your neighbors too.

EQUINE VET SERVICES Jacksonville Equine Associates

Your Seabiscuit will always be healthy as a horse at Jacksonville Equine Associates. A repeat Best In Pets winner, this team of five doctors design lifelong plans unique to your horse’s needs. The practice, which is located on Commonwealth Avenue, boasts Dr. Alan Weldon, Dr. Richard Nancarrow, Dr. Bridget Lambert, Dr. Caroline Moore and Dr. Gina Zambrano. Offering dental, lameness and sports medicine, gastroscopy and examinations and emergency services, there’s no horsing around with care at Jacksonville Equine Associates.

EXOTIC ANIMAL HOSPITAL Exotic Bird Hospital

Best In Pets repeat winner for Avian Veterinary Services, Exotic Bird Hospital is also taking home the win for Exotic Animal Hospital. This dedicated team of professionals provides the best in preventive and informed care for bunnies, birds, bats, boas and the even more extraordinary. The hospital has been operating since 1995, and over 12,000 patients were seen just last year! Offering house calls, boarding, easy medicine refills and more, your exotic pet will get the most exceptional treatment. A fire at the facility

a couple months ago caused a change in location but the doors remain open.

FAVE LOCAL PET TO FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM @justferningaround

Local good boy @justferningaround is a nine-lb. rescue mutt with over 2,000 followers. Trained in the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen and Advanced Trick Dog programs, as well as the Positive Reinforcement Training (R+), Fern can do much more than sit and stay. He’s known for his colorful rotation of bandanas, and was in the top 10 of People Magazine’s ‘World’s Cutest Rescue Dog’ in 2021. Fern’s fluffy ears and sweet disposition are sure to capture your heart on the very first scroll.

FISH AQUATIC SUPPLIES BioReef

Nemo in need of a friend? This repeat Best In Pets winner will ensure your fish friends get along swimmingly. With the largest selection of saltwater fish and live coral in Northeast Florida, BioReef’s experts are knowledgeable about everything from seahorses and anemone to live coral and shrimp. They also sell livestock and marine supplies, as well as custom-built aquariums, so take a dive into BioReef for all your aquarist dreams.

GROOMING SERVICES Salty Paws

Does your “fur-st” mate need a new do? Newcomer to Best In Pets, Salty Paws offers safety and comfort with one-on-one, cage-free grooming. They are paw-ssionate about their customers, and treat each pet like their own by using only the highest quality, all-natural products. Luxury grooming includes services like blueberry facials, paw-icures, new bandanas and bakery treats. Your pup will be rested and relaxed and looking really fresh after an express bath or an extravagant SPAw groom.

HOLISTIC SERVICES

Animal Care of Ponte Vedra

Nothing is im-paw-sible at Animal Care of Ponte Vedra. Treating more than just symptoms, this newcomer to Best In Pets partners with you to guarantee your pet has the happiest, healthiest life possible. This top-quality veterinary care team focuses on nose-to-tail wellness, and offers state-of-the-art testing and diagnostics, routine and advanced surgical procedures as well as regular exams. Sparky can’t always tell you how he feels, but at Animal Care of Ponte Vedra, he’ll get all the belly rubs and healing he needs.

INVISIBLE FENCE INSTALLATION Jax DogWatch Hidden Fences

Jax DogWatch Hidden Fences offers freedom, flexibility and safety so Buddy isn’t roaming the streets of Bold City. This repeat Best In Pets offender offers outdoor, hidden, underground fencing systems, indoor pet boundaries and training collars. Installation and instructions are seamless, and they even offer free estimates. These pet-friend solutions guarantee your furry escape artist is kept out of trouble and away from places they shouldn’t be like begging for a hot dog outside of EverBank Stadium.

PUBLIC HORSE TRAIL

Julington-Durbin Creek Preserve

Located on a peninsula formed at the confluence of Julington and Durbin Creeks, this repeat choice in Best ‘Public Horse Trail’ offers up a total of some six miles round-trip landscape perfect for hiking, biking and—you guessed it—horseback riding. So, although you might not be the next Annie Oakley or Billy the Kid, head to Julington-Durbin Creek Preserve for a leisurely gallop amongst the sandhills and flatwoods as you keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, osprey, gopher tortoises, turkey, deer or even a bobcat.

Wiredhair Fox Terrier Mix

WHAT THE CLUCK?

Raising backyard chickens was a trend that caught fire several years back. Though perhaps not as popular as it once was, the idea of having fresh-laid eggs for breakfast still garners interest. In Jax, backyard coops are welcome, so long as a few rules are followed. For starters, in order to host a flock at home, a permit ($25) from the City is required. And to get that, one needs to attend a Backyard Hen Training class hosted by the Duval County Extension Office. The one-hour lecture and demonstration provide the basics of care and outlines the dos and don’ts as permitted by local ordinances. For example, chicken coops must offer at least three-square feet per hen and roosters are not permitted at all. Their early morning crowing is frowned upon. Also, in Jax Beach a maximum of five chickens are allowed per house, while back in town a homeowner’s flock may be as large as 15 birds on property of more than two acres. Should your patch of green acres result in a surplus of hens, the Extension’s Urban Garden center also offers classes on broiler chickens for dinner.

Happy Trails

Tennis balls, water squirting from hoses, food of almost any kind—there are a few things nearly universally loved by dogs. We’d count running and playing in the woods among them, too. And your pet pooch has the perfect opportunity to do a little exploring in the woods at the upcoming Tails and Trails , September 23, 11 AM-3 PM, at the Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, a gem of a park not far from the Dames Point Bridge in Arlington. There will be food trucks, squirrels, adult libations, music, nature paths to explore and trees aplenty. People are welcome, too. Of course, like so many things in life, the afternoon will be better with a furry friend or two.

Thanks for Your Service

After opening earlier this year, Pop Smoke K9 for Veterans is storming ahead with its mission to serve military veterans around the country. Many veterans deal with post-traumatic stress and anxiety. Pop Smoke uses dogs specially trained to notice the signs that come with those mental health difficulties and bring comfort to their partner veterans. This includes smelling the vet’s hormones and responding accordingly. Additionally, some vets may struggle with health issues like dementia. In those cases, a service dog can help retrieve a cane or push a handicap accessible button for their owner.

However, before the veteran-specific training begins, typical dog training must be learned. Commands like sit, stay, and rollover, are all taught to the dog before any veteran takes one home. After a dog has learned obedience basics, the vet can take it home to begin a twoyear service training period. It is worth noting that service dogs are not the same as emotional support dogs. Unlike emotional support animals, service dogs have access to most private institutions outside of operating rooms and some government buildings. Pop Smoke intends to one day only use English Labradors, as the breed has a moderate energy level and are food driven, so they typically are easier to train.

Based in Ormond Beach, Pop Smoke K9 is a nonprofit organization and all contributions to it go toward the veterans and their dogs. Veterans suffering from PTSD, TBI or MST interested in the program can contact the group at www. popsmokek9forveterans.org

PET BAKERY Woof Gang

Offering oven-baked goodness for your favorite furry friend, Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming, located in the Shoppes of Avondale, is the new winner for Best ‘Pet Bakery’ for our readers. Touted as “Your Dogs Happy Place,” Woof Gang makes exclusive gourmet treats that are dog tested and puppy approved. They’re also all-natural, made from the highest quality ingredients and free of artificial flavors, fillers and preservatives. “My pup loved his dog treats!” wrote one client review on the website. “This place offers a huge selection. Will definitely be going back.”

RAW DIET FOOD STORE EarthWise Pet

With a location in Jacksonville Beach, repeat Best In Pets pick, EarthWise Pet Nutrition Center & Wellness Spa, offers up the essentials for any dog or cat on a raw diet. A raw diet is said to create more energy for your pet—coming from just three sources: protein, fat and carbohydrates. Whether you’re looking for pasture raised venison served up raw for your cat or whitefish nuggets sold in five-pound bags for your pooch, EarthWise understands just how important your pet’s diet is to you.

PET-FRIENDLY PUBLIC PARK Boone Park

Who’s ready to play fetch? Located in Avondale, Boone Park is our reader’s pick for one of Best In Pets’ new categories, ‘Pet-Friendly Public Park.’ Named after William Elijah Boone, one of the owners that the city purchased the land from back in 1926, Boone Park boasts 28 acres of treed landscape, picnic tables, a playground, restrooms, tennis courts and, of course, lots of room for your favorite furry friend to roam around on. Just make sure to keep Spot on a leash when you visit.

PET-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT Poe’s Tavern

Who wants to leave their pet behind when they go out to eat? One of this year’s new Best In Pets categories, ‘Pet-Friendly Restaurant,’ goes to Poe’s Tavern, a popular restaurant in Atlantic Beach that features Edgar Allan Poe-themed décor and some of the best burgers in the 904. Cuddle up to your Bichon Frisé while munching away on the Beef Hop Frog (BBQ sauce, applewood bacon and Monterey Jack Cheese) or maybe even sneak a nibble of the Beef Rue Morgue (bunless on a bed of hand-cut fries with drunken chili, queso and fried egg) to your Tibetan Mastiff hanging under the table.

PET SITTING & PET WALKING SERVICES

Sapphire & Co.

Whether it’s a red-eyed crocodile skink or a rescue Golden Retriever named Hank, finding the right person to look after your pet is of the utmost importance. That’s why our readers have named Sapphire & Co. the Best ‘Pet Sitting’ and ‘Pet Walking’ in the 904. Headed up by certified dog-lover and owner Stormee Martinez, this well-regarded local biz has been providing trusted and reliable animal care since 2018. “Absolutely amazing professional pet care! Stormee is incredibly detail oriented, wanting to provide the best customized services for your pets!” says Wendy G. on a website testimonial. A lot of Jax Mag readers seem to agree with Wendy, too. u

Jack Rat Terrier

The Doctor is in

Pet feeling ill? Who ya gonna call?

DUVAL COUNTY

Howard Acree

Cedar Hills Animal Hospital

Ayotunde Akande

Bartram Park Animal Hospital

Rachel Benmoha

First Coast Equine

Veterinary Services

Gregory Bennett

San Juan Animal Hospital

Boyairin Michael

Pablo River Veterinary

Daniel Brown

Animal Eye Clinics of North Florida Inc

Jacquelyn Buzzerd

Banfield Pet Hospital

Matthew Chandler

Animal Eye Clinics of North Florida

Heidi Chupp

San Pablo Animal Hospital

Mary Cleary

At Home Mobile

Veterinary Clinic

Zuleika Cotto-Carballo

Julington Creek

Animal Hospital

David Cromer

Baywood Animal Hospital

William Daniel

Beaches Animal Clinic

Glenn Davis

Hidden Hills Animal Hospital

Michael Dressel

Chimney Lakes

Animal Hospital

Christian Erdman

Kings trail Animal Hospital

Justin Fyfe

Kathrine Gillikin

Banfield Pet Hospital

Guy Graden

Axel Gray

Coastal Veterinary Hospital

Linda Greene

Banfield Pet Hospital

Ronald Greshake

Vet-I-Care Animal Hospital

Ross Griffith

Banfield Pet Hospital

Carl Guill

San Juan Animal Hospital

Maria Guzman

Julington Creek Animal Hospital

Susan Hawk

Banfield Pet Hospital

Alexa Herppich

Animal Hospital of Oceanway

Kelly Huth

Banfield Pet Hospital

Kandra Jones

Mandarin Veterinary Clinic

George Khalil

Normandy Boulevard Animal Hospital

Richard Langford

Coral Reef Animal Hospital

Janet Lee

Dames Point Animal Hospital

Michele MacKay

Shoreline Veterinary Hospital

Anna Maxwell

Ark Animal Hospital

Eric McCall

San Pablo Animal Hospital

Moody McCall

San Pablo Animal Hospital

Tylor McLendon

Mandarin Equine Veterinary Services

Grant McMillian

San Jose Beaclerc Animal Clinic Inc

James Mosley

Animal Doctors of Northeast Florida dba

Mandarin Animal Hospital

Dwight Nash

San Joes- Beaclerc Animal Clinic Inc

Kimberly Niessen

UNF Pre- Veterinary Club

Eric Orr

Banfield Pet Hospital

Erin Ouellette

Atlantic Veterinary Hospital

Jennifer Pallozzi

Birch Island Veterinary Center

Sarah Paschall Animal Hospital at Oakleaf Plantation

Ann Porter A Cat Clinic Inc

Jovanny Quesada

Banfield Pet Hospital

Robert Raymond

Sheridan Animal Hospital

Paul Rehme

FDOH

Susan Ridinger

VCA Briarcliff Animal Hospital

Catherine Rogaski

Merrill Animal Clinic

Allison Rodgers A Cat Clinic

Martina Sander

Oceanview Veterinary Hospital

Kelli Sanders

Sanders Shepherds Farm & Veterinary Services, LLC

Ralph Sevelius

Northside Animal Hospital

Sarah Skinner Dr Sarah Skinner Mobile

Only Veterinary

Jason Soler

Banfield Pet Hospital

Richard Sutliff

Scott Mill Animal Hospital

Susan Mary Thoma

Whitehouse Animal Hospital Inc

Christina Trabanco

Mark Walker

Capital Veterinary Specialist Jax LLC

Esra Y. Weisheit

Nease Animal Hospital

Alan Weldon Jacksonville Equine Associates

Glenda Wiechman Animal Hospital At Oakleaf Plantation

Rebecca Williams

Deerwood Animal Clinic

Richard Williams

Hidden Hills Animal Hospital

Rod Winchester Julington Creek Animal Hospital

Jefferey Woods Merrill Animal Clinic

Rose Worobec Banfield Pet Hospital

Patrick Wright

Normandy Boulevard Animal Hospital

Gina Zambrano

Jacksonville Equine Associates

ST JOHNS

Najla Bell-Meyer

MuraBella Animal Hospital

Krista Davis Bartram Trail Veterinary Hospital

Jay Erne Veterinary Orthopedic and Mobility Center

Constanze Goricki

Greenbriar Animal Hospital

Lisa Hill

Animal Medical Clinic at St. Johns

Allison Lockwood

Shelton Veterinary Clinic At Elkton

Rebecca Mackenzie

VCA Ponte Vedra

Animal Hospital

Kevin Russell

Animal Medical Clinic At West Town Place

Jack Schmidt

St. Augustine Animal Clinic

Kathryn Taggart

Antigua Veterinary Practice

John Yselonia

Antigua Veterinary Practice

CLAY COUNTY

Carlos Aragon

BluePearl Pet Hospital

John Canty

Russell Road Animal Clinic

Cristina Catasus

Banfield Pet Hospital

Lindsey Diley

Black Creek Veterinary Hospital

Jan Evans

Doctors Inlet Animal Hospital

Robert Goring

Sixth Street Veterinary Hospital

Catherine Harrington

Russell Road Animal Clinic

Jennifer Locke

Southeast Veterinary Oncology and internal Medicine

Jessica McAlpin

Primevet Animal Hospital

Amy McGinness

Black Creek

Veterinary Hospital

Douglass McKee

Cynthia Miller

Sandy Paws Animal Hospital

B. Craig Price

Black Creek

Veterinary Hospital

Wyatt Price

Black Creek

Veterinary Hospital

Julia Runnfeldt

VCA All Animal Hospital of Orange Park

Susan Ryschkewitsch

Clay County Animal Hospital

Caley Sciardi

Black Creek

Veterinary Hospital

Ashley Spencer

Black Creek

Veterinary Hospital

Angela Spicer

Willowdale Veterinary Center

Abigail Walls

Southeast Veterinary Oncology and Internal Medicine

Tamra White

Springlake Animal Hospital

NASSAU COUNTY

Joseph Fragale

Jonathan Greenfield

Amy Hall

Animal Clinic of Nassau County

Gloria MacDonald

Fernandina Beach

Animal Clinic

Sheila Norstrud

The Pet Care Center of Nassau

James Obrien

Fernandina Beach Animal Clinic

Jennifer Towles

Amelia Island Animal Resort and Lodge

Mario Vezza

Roslyn Village Vet u

The Florida Veterinary Medical Association (FVMA) is ranked third in size in veterinary medical associations in the United States, with more than 5,800 veterinarians represented. It is headquartered in Orlando, and has upheld much the same values since its founding in 1928.

THOSE VALUES ARE:

• To promote good fellowship in the profession of veterinary medicine

• To promote and protect the profession of veterinary medicine

• To procure the enactment of laws regulating the practice of veterinary medicine, and the control of the diseases of animals

• To direct public opinion regarding problems concerning the health of animals and sanitary practices of controlling diseases

• To evaluate the standards of veterinary education

• To further the education of its members

• To further the humane treatment of animals by members and by the general public

The group believes any vet who adheres to these values sits head and tails above the rest. Following is a list of members of the FVMA who practice in Jacksonville and its surrounding counties.

Approximately 150 FVMA MEMBER VETS are located in the Jacksonville area. Their names are posted here.

Picture Pawfect

Piper

Brindle Boxer/American Bulldog, 9 years old

This cute girl is hiding something. Her “horrible, ugly teeth,” says her owner. But gnarly canines don’t prevent Piper from being sweet and lovable. She firmly believes she is a lap dog—an 88-pound lap dog. She’s also a bed hog and will readily nudge someone off her preferred spot on the mattress. Oh, and that whining you hear is Piper asking to be covered with the blanket on a cold day. If it’s really cold, she’ll go to the laundry room to select one of her favorite sweaters to wear.

Overlord

Brussels Griffon, 4 years old

Overlord’s owners are Megan and Reggie Hayward, the former being a ten-year NFL vet and former Jaguars defensive end. But just because Reggie stands 6’ 5’’, don’t think that it isn’t five-pound Overlord who runs the show. He loves treats of any kind, playing on the beach, riding in the car and his chewy bones. “He’s never had a bad experience,” says his owner. “So, he thinks every living thing on the plant has one purpose—to love him.”

Malcolm

Rescue Tabby, ten years old

WANT TO SEE YOUR BELOVED ANIMAL IN JAX MAG?

Nominations for Picture Pawfect pets can be made via our website, under the heading Reader Polls. Previously featured Picture Pawfect pets may be viewed there, too.

Malcolm is the baby girl of her family. Yes, she’s a girl named Malcolm. And what a baby she is. Her owner admits she’s spoiled rotten, as many cats tend to be. If she doesn’t get her way, she will turn her back and pout. Such a typical cat. She loves sleeping in the sunshine and eating Temptations treats. Again, just like cats do. Malcolm also loves a good brushing, so long as the time and place are of her choosing. Could she be more of a cat? u

THE

ANNUAL LIST OF TOP ATTORNEYS

Holding Attorneys and Accountants

Responsible for Malpractice

The attorneys at St. Denis & Davey, P.A. are committed to ensuring that no one is above the law. Specializing in legal malpractice, they represent individuals and businesses that have been harmed by the negligence or wrongdoing of an attorney or accountant.

Donald St. Denis and Brian Davey, who understand that victims of legal malpractice may be distrustful of all lawyers. They communication, fully hearing and addressing have returned millions to clients through verdicts and settlements.

The attorneys at St. Denis & Davey pride lawyers who champion the interests of their clients, their community and their profession.

SELECTION PROCESS

Super Lawyers selects attorneys using a patented multiphase selection process.*

The objective is to create a credible, comprehensive and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys that can be used as a resource for attorneys and consumers searching for legal counsel. We limit the lawyer ratings to those who can be hired and retained by the public, i.e., lawyers in private practice and Legal Aid attorneys.

The Super Lawyers selection process involves the steps outlined in the graphic (at right).

LEARN MORE SuperLawyers.com/SelectionProcess QUESTIONS? SL-Research@thomsonreuters.com

visit SuperLawyers.com

Search for an attorney by practice area and location, and read features on attorneys selected to our lists.

OUR PATENTED SELECTION PROCESS NOMINATIONS

Diverse list of the top attorneys nominated by their own peers

INDEPENDENT RESEARCH

Evaluated by third-party research across 12 key categories

PEER EVALUATION

Reviewed by a highly credentialed Blue Ribbon Panel of attorneys

FINAL SELECTION

2.5% of attorneys selected to Rising Stars

5% of attorneys selected to Super Lawyers

*U.S. Pat. No. 8,412,564

Not Pictured: D. Finley Williams, Esq., 2022 Rising Stars Honoree

D. Scott Monroe, Esq. Rising Stars Honoree Alex King, Esq.

Where do I start my search for an attorney?

The Super Lawyers ® list is comprised of the top 5% of attorneys in each state selected via a patented process that includes independent research, peer nominations, and evaluation.

The answer is SuperLawyers.com

Anderson, Jr., Geddes D.

Ansbacher, Barry Bachara, Jr., Henry G. (Chip), Bachara

Barbour, Jeptha F. Barksdale, David

Busey, Stephen D.

Camerlengo, Jr., Joseph V.

Cobb, Christopher M.

Coker, Howard C.

Costantino, R. Scott

Coxe, III, Henry M.

Creed, Rebecca Bowen

Delegal, III, T.A. (Tad)

Edwards, Jr., Thomas S.

Gowdy, Bryan

Hazelip, Christopher C.

Holshouser, Eric J.

Hyde, Kevin E.

Kitchen, F. Damon

McCarthy, III, Edward

Murphy, Niels P.

Posgay, Matthew N.

Tanner, Michael G.

Wells, David M.

Worman, Cheryl L.

THE ANNUAL LIST

BY PRIMARY AREA OF PRACTICE

The list was finalized as of November 16, 2022. Only attorneys who data verified with Super Lawyers for the current year are included on the list that follows. All current selections and any updates to the list (e.g., status changes or disqualifying events) will be reflected on superlawyers.com.

Names and page numbers in RED indicate a profile on for attorneys with paid Super Lawyers or Rising Stars print advertisements.

ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

SUPER LAWYERS

Adams, Jr., William E., Adams Dispute

Cole, Robert A. Max, Jacksonville

APPELLATE

SUPER LAWYERS

Creed, Rebecca Bowen

Gowdy, Bryan

Harrell, Jessie L.

Jacksonville

Kent, William Mallory

Jacksonville

Korn, Michael J. S-10

Ross, Meredith

Sichta, Susanne K.

Jacksonville

BANKING

RISING STARS

Brown, Zach

BANKRUPTCY: BUSINESS

SUPER LAWYERS

Burnett, Jason B.

Otero, David E.

Pollan, Adina

Jacksonville

Post, James H. Jacksonville

Summers, Jr., J. Ellsworth

Jacksonville

Thames, Richard R.

Jacksonville

RISING STARS

Nozzolillo, Armando Jacksonville

BANKRUPTCY: CONSUMER

SUPER LAWYERS

Khawaja, Rehan N.

RISING STARS

Mannion, Sarah

BUSINESS LITIGATION

SUPER LAWYERS

Abel, Michael A.

Allen, A. Graham

Anderson, Jr., Geddes D. S-3

Anderson, Gregory A.

Jacksonville

Bajalia, Mark

Bishop, Thomas E.

Jacksonville

Burns, David D.

Busey, Stephen D.

Coll, Patrick P.

Jacksonville

Cook, Kevin B.

Danninger, Timothy S.

Demont, Michael E.

Jacksonville

Farnell, II, R.H.

Freed, Michael R.

George, Christian

Gillam, IV, W. Braxton

Giurato, Gerry A. S-3

Gonzalez, James

Jacksonville

Greene, Christopher J.

Henrichsen, Neil L. S-10

Jimerson, Charles B. Jacksonville

Joyce, Patrick W.

Kellison, Lee G.

Kolar, Eric S. Liles, Rutledge R. Lockamy, Michael E.

Lunny, Gregory F.

Murphy, Niels P. S-3

Patacca, Jr., Angelo M. Jacksonville

Rumrell, Richard G.

Russell, Lanny Jacksonville

Rust, Adrian

Smith, R. Troy

Tanner, Michael G.

Thomas, M. Scott

Tomchin, Kenneth A.

Wachs, Alan S.

Jacksonville

Wells, David M.

RISING STARS

Baker IV, John S.

Balz, Davis D. S-3

Barauskas, Aleksas A.

Blodgett, Kevin Jacksonville

Cocciolo, Rachel

Graves, Lawton S-3

Gropper, Michael M.

Jacksonville

Hamilton, Austin T.

Harrington, Jay

Horner, Emily F.

Hulsberg, Sarah J. S-3

Humphries, Kellie M.

Kelley, Brian G.

Moon, Megan

Mountford, Derek

Raab, Loreyn P.

Richards, Devon

BUSINESS/CORPORATE

SUPER LAWYERS

Chism, Lorie L.

Davis, Gardner

RISING STARS

Dunn Waters, Kelly

Jankulla, Eliona

Jacksonville

Weisman, Lauren

Woods, Andrew M. Jacksonville

CIVIL LITIGATION: DEFENSE

SUPER LAWYERS

Eslinger, C. Ryan

McCarthy, III, Edward

RISING STARS

Edwards, Kimano M. Jacksonville

Mydock, Kimberly T. Jacksonville

Renstrom, Laura B. Jacksonville

CONSTRUCTION LITIGATION

SUPER LAWYERS

Adams, III, Adam G. Jacksonville

Bachara, Jr., Henry G. (Chip)

Birr, III, James O.

Childers, Michael J. Jacksonville

Cobb, Christopher M.

DeCandio, Michael J.

Ferguson, Elizabeth B.

Grimm, Reed W. Jacksonville

Henderson, Jr., Reese J. Jacksonville

Mueller, Christopher J.

Norrie, G. Kenneth Jacksonville

Regan, Jeffrey C.

Smith, Troy K.

Whelan, Edward M. Jacksonville

Worman, Cheryl L.

RISING STARS

Fugitt, Tyler L. Jacksonville

CREDITOR DEBTOR

SUPER LAWYERS

Hyde, Ryan T.

Macdonald, John B.

Paysinger, Kevin

RISING STARS

Neilson, Robert

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

SUPER LAWYERS

Barksdale, David

Coughlin, Brian T.

Jacksonville

Dreicer, Jesse

Jacksonville

Kachergus, Matthew R.

Lasnetski, Jeremy

Jacksonville

Lufrano, Matthew I.

Jacksonville

Seiden, Mark

Sieron, Mark

Stone, Mitchell A.

Jacksonville

Thomas, D. Gray

White, Elizabeth L.

Willis, Robert Stuart

RISING STARS

Bonderud, Andrew Michael

Hart, Reid M.

Monroe, D. Scott S-2

Sheppard, Camille E.

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: DUI/DWI

SUPER LAWYERS

Lockett, L. Lee

RISING STARS

Schott, Shannon B.

S-10

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: WHITE COLLAR

SUPER LAWYERS

Coxe, III, Henry M.

RIGHTS

RISING STARS

Waller, Chambers

EMINENT DOMAIN

SUPER LAWYERS

Brigham, Andrew Prince

Humphrey, Bruce

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

SUPER LAWYERS

Farrell, IV, Thomas M. Jacksonville

EMPLOYMENT & LABOR

SUPER LAWYERS

Andrews, William H. Jacksonville

Delegal, III, T.A. (Tad)

Gerlach, Gregg

Jacksonville

Harper, G. Thomas

Holshouser, Eric J.

Hyde, Kevin E.

Kitchen, F. Damon

Williams, P. Daniel Jacksonville

RISING STARS

Edwards, Ashlea A.

Horovitz, Samuel J. Jacksonville

Poindexter, James Jacksonville

EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION: DEFENSE

SUPER LAWYERS

Margulies, Richard N. Jacksonville

Riegel, Jr., Robert G. Jacksonville

EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION: PLAINTIFF

SUPER LAWYERS

Doolittle, Kirsten

Doolittle, Jacksonville

Magid, Leonard S. Jacksonville

Thomas, III, Archibald J.

ENVIRONMENTAL

SUPER LAWYERS

Ansbacher, Sidney F.

ENVIRONMENTAL LITIGATION

SUPER LAWYERS

Flowers, Wayne E. Jacksonville

ESTATE & TRUST LITIGATION

SUPER LAWYERS

Apolito, Alessandro A. Jacksonville

Cole, John P.

Kelley, Shane J.

RISING STARS

Sweet, Christine

ESTATE PLANNING & PROBATE

SUPER LAWYERS

Buzby-Walt, Anne Jacksonville

Crawford, John R.

Dawkins, Robert A.

Havens, Jason E. Jacksonville

Hay, Jonathan L.

Hershorin, Brian J.

Kelley, Sean W.

Miller, Robert N. Jacksonville

Tousey, III, Clay B.

Jacksonville

Trudeau, Robert H.

RISING STARS

Dugan, Adam J.

Holmgren, Stephen P.

Moss, Mark

Jacksonville

Naples, Jr., David D.

CONTINUED ON PAGE S-8

ROBERT M. KIRILLOFF

As a Jacksonville native, Robert Kirilloff is familiar with Duval, its surrounding counties, and most importantly, its residents. After graduating from the University of Central Florida with a B.S. in Legal Studies, Robert decided to return to his hometown to attend Florida Coastal School of Law, where he embraced the law and its nuances. While working in the Jacksonville legal community, he discovered an alarming shortage of client involvement in their cases. Robert notes that the attorney/ client relationship is noticeably lacking in today’s legal profession. His legal experience, when combined with a focus on developing a working relationship with his clients, creates an environment that leads to success. Robert accomplishes this by encouraging regular facetime with each of his clients, maintaining an open line of communication, and staying in touch with them following the conclusion of their cases. This allows the client to really know and understand the issues that affect their case and creates a more knowledgeable clientele, which will assist them with any future legal issues.

FAMILY LAW

SUPER LAWYERS

Bylund, Corrine Anne

Jacksonville

Datz, Lawrence C.

Greene, Deborah L.

Jacksonville

Hunt, Matthew

Myers, Ashley M.

Jacksonville

Ondriezek, Elizabeth R.

Quick, Heather

Jacksonville

Zisser, Elliot

Zisser, Jonathan C.

Jacksonville

RISING STARS

Castro, Deanne

Jacksonville

Guerrero, Christie

Jacksonville

Lehner, Andrea J.

GENERAL LITIGATION

SUPER LAWYERS

Bean, Daniel K.

Hazelip, Christopher C.

HEALTH CARE

SUPER LAWYERS

Chiu, Charmaine T.M.

Jacksonville

Watrel, Stephen S-5

RISING STARS

Prokop, Samantha

IMMIGRATION

SUPER LAWYERS

Carson, Giselle

INSURANCE COVERAGE

RISING STARS

Bush, Steven M.

Frederick, F. Todd

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

SUPER LAWYERS

Saitta, Thomas C.

RISING STARS

Ghaneie, Mitchell

LEGAL AID/PRO BONO

SUPER LAWYERS

Drysdale, Lynn

Jacksonville

MEDIA AND ADVERTISING

SUPER LAWYERS

Birk, Edward L.

RISING STARS

Girones, Giselle M.

Jacksonville

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

SUPER LAWYERS

Howard, G. Alan

Moore, Jr., Stephen D.

Jacksonville

RISING STARS

Herrin, Kayla Haines

Jacksonville

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: DEFENSE

SUPER LAWYERS

Barbour, Jeptha F.

Leach, Eric L.

RISING STARS

Sherman, Austin C.

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

SUPER LAWYERS

Ahmed, Fraz S-5

Baggett, Amanda

Baggett, Matthew B.

Butler, Howard

Jacksonville

Camerlengo, Jr., Joseph V.

Coker, Howard C. S-5

Combs, Steven P.

Costantino, R. Scott

Currie, Brian E.

Gare, Henry E.

Jacksonville

Gibbs, Craig A.

Jacksonville

Griffin, Lee T.

Harrell, Holt

Harris, Chelsea R. S-5

Harris, Joel S-5

Iracki, Daniel A. S-5

Kulik, Robert F.

Ossi, Michael A.

Pajcic, Curry G.

Pajcic, Curtis S.

Pajcic, Seth A.

Pajcic, III, Stephen J.

Jacksonville

Pickert, Alan M.

Jacksonville

Posgay, Matthew N. S-5

Prysock, Gregory D.

Jacksonville

Rosenberg, Mark L.

Jacksonville

Schickel, John J. S-5

Sheftall, Scott D.

Jacksonville

Sorenson, Charles A. S-5

Von Roenn, Zachary

Whitman, Joshua A.

Wolf, David

RISING STARS

Campione, Christopher D.

Jacksonville

Engle, Tracy

Foster, Sarah

Grossman, Matthew

Jacksonville

Higdon, Hunter R.

Humphries, Michael J.

Jacksonville

Kirilloff, Robert M. S-7

Liu, Nicole

Luciano, Antonio

Jacksonville

Nobregas, Alexander

Portigliatti, Stefano S-5

Sorenson, Chase S-5

Studer, Seth

Thompson, David

PERSONAL INJURY MEDICAL MALPRACTICE: DEFENSE

SUPER LAWYERS

Googe, Jr., Earl E.

Jacksonville

PERSONAL INJURY MEDICAL MALPRACTICE: PLAINTIFF

SUPER LAWYERS

Cronin, Sean B.

Jacksonville

Edwards, Jr., Thomas S. S-9

Ragatz, Eric C. S-9, S-10

Sowell, Matthew W. Jacksonville

Spohrer, Robert F. Tromberg, Fred

RISING STARS

Travieso, Robert

PERSONAL INJURY PRODUCTS: DEFENSE

SUPER LAWYERS

Luikart, Christen E. S-3

PERSONAL INJURY PRODUCTS: PLAINTIFF

SUPER LAWYERS

Reid, Jr., Raymond P. Jacksonville

PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY: DEFENSE

SUPER LAWYERS

Ramsey, Richard E.

PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY: PLAINTIFF

SUPER LAWYERS

Pennington, Rufus S-5

St. Denis, Donald W. S-1

REAL ESTATE

SUPER LAWYERS

Ansbacher, Barry

Ezell, Brenda

Kent, III, Frederick H. McAfee, Matthew S.

CONTINUED ON PAGE S-10

Eric Ragatz

Tom Edwards Tom Edwards

FLORIDA TOP 100 JACKSONVILLE TOP 25

FLORIDA JACKSONVILLE 2023

RISING STARS

Anderson, Hannah Jacksonville

Marshall, Jordan

Miska, Charlee L.

Patel, Anish K.

Walker, Christopher A. Jacksonville

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

SUPER LAWYERS

Miller, Tracy Tyson

STATE, LOCAL & MUNICIPAL

SUPER LAWYERS

Laquidara, Cindy A.

TAX

SUPER LAWYERS

Flanagan, Timothy L.

Peek, J. Jacob R.

RISING STARS

Sooriash, Jonathan D. Jacksonville

TRANSPORTATION/MARITIME

SUPER LAWYERS

Boyd, Jr., Thomas A.

Buhler, Phillip A.

Dodd, Roger J.

Ferrelle, Jr., J. Rice

Holland, II, James R.

Slater, Thomas F.

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

SUPER LAWYERS

Rahaim II, John J.

Rudolph, Michael D.

Selected to Super Lawyers

NEIL L. HENRICHSEN HENRICHSEN LAW GROUP, PLLC

Selected to Super Lawyers

MICHAEL J. KORN

BUSINESS LITIGATION

EMPLOYMENT & LABOR

APPELLATE

GENERAL LITIGATION

ADMINISTRATIVE LAW

The Best Lawyers in America and Florida Trend’s

Selected to Super Lawyers

L. LEE LOCKETT LOCKETT LAW

Selected to Rising Stars

JESSE LONG LEGAL GRIT, PLLC

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: DUI/DWI

CRIMINAL DEFENSE APPELLATE

INSURANCE COVERAGE

Selected to Super Lawyers

PERSONAL INJURY MEDICAL MALPRACTICE: PLAINTIFF

PERSONAL INJURY PRODUCTS: PLAINTIFF

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

ERIC C. RAGATZ cum laude

Florida Super Lawyers

®

The answer is SuperLawyers.com

Minimal E ffort

Beach hideaway takes a minimalist yet welcoming approach to comfort and character.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY POLINA PIGULEVSKY

One could argue that the stretch of A1A south of Ponte Vedra Beach is about as close to a highway to heaven as one can get in Northeast Florida. Dozens of oceanside dream homes sit atop sandy dunes and miles of undeveloped marshland teeming with sawgrass and windswept and weathered oak trees hug the busy, two-lane stretch of roadway.

It’s here on this slice of First Coast where Donny Mak built a new vacation getaway, on a parcel of land that offers beautiful views of the salt marshes to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. And it’s only about a 20-minute drive into the heart of historic St. Augustine.

The new home, completed in 2022, covers some 2,600 square feet between its four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths. In all, up to eight can sleep here comfortably. Whereas many beachside dwellings are swimming in light blues and greens and other pastel colors and typical seaside decor, Mak went in another, more contemporary direction.

“When we were planning the build, we were going for an organic modern feel,” he says. “We wanted the space to feel modern yet warm. So, we used warm white colors throughout, including white tiled floors and white oak in the kitchen, continuing through to the furniture design.”

The double roof line, exterior white brick with black accents, are all a nod to a classic—almost French Country— exterior design.

The interior decoration is spartan and uncluttered. Again, the use of standard beachfront themes is avoided. Don’t look for mounted fish on the walls, lighthouse lamps or kitschy pirates. Instead, the furnishings and finishes are clean and simple and in keeping with Mak’s design preferences. Now, that’s not to say he didn’t want the home to be fun and inviting. Actually, it’s just the opposite. Building the oceanside hideaway was always about entertaining friends and family.

“Our main focus was the gathering space,” says Mak. “We wanted a big open area where family and friends can gather. We set the main space—kitchen, dining and living rooms—on the second floor to take advantage of the views. The master bedroom is located upstairs, as well, separated from the other bedrooms for privacy. The downstairs has the game area and the three guests’ bedrooms, each with their own special design scheme, as to not come across as simply ‘secondary’ bedrooms.”

One of the bedrooms presented a bit of a challenge for Mak and his designer. The goal was to have two full beds in the room. But the space was tight and how to make them both cozy without appearing stuffed into the room needed a solution. A custom headboard was designed and crafted as a remedy. A vintage Ron Jon surfboard found at a thrift store in St. Augustine fits the space perfectly and completes the room.

“We knew the kitchen was going to be to where everyone is drawn, so our goal was to make for an easy flow with the large island suitable for gathering, eating and casual conversation,” the owner says. “We kept with the same minimalist design by going with open shelves and used upper cabinets on only on one wall so it’s an uncluttered design, but still quite functional. We used white quartz countertops throughout to keep everything light and clean looking.”

“I love mixing materials and one of the items I wanted to stand out in the kitchen was the faucet. We used the Henry Kitchen faucet by Waterworks in a un-lacquered polished brass finish which will patina/tarnish with use.”

The minimalist look is de finitely intentional. We wanted to keep it simple and free o f distraction, so focal points like the plinth statue and dining room light fixture really stand out.

Among the homeowner’s favorite interior design elements are the custom plaster finishes added to several spaces. The fireplace wall, range hood and a wall in one of the bedrooms were hand-plastered, creating a truly unique quality, an organic and rustic appearance that differentiates the home from any other up or down A1A.

“I think my favorite feature has to be the dining room light fixture (page 104),” Mak continues. “I looked at every light fixture out there and just happened to spot this one on Instagram and I knew that was it. I’m really happy how it all worked out.” That shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise. After all, that’s to be expected when you’re this close to heaven u

Credi ts

ARCHITECT: JAA Architecture

INTERIOR DESIGN: Victoria Moronta Design & Co

PLASTER FINISHES: Ford Family Finishes

LIGHTING & PLUMBING FIXTURES: Hollingsworth

BUILDER: Cardinal Contracting

I m loving the trend o f white oak right now. We used ri ft white oak which is very clean, free o f knots and it s just so clean. I think it will be timeless.

BY JEFFREY SPEAR

LET’S TALK TACOS

It can be argued that tacos became widely popular in America with the founding of Taco Bell in 1962. Jumping ahead about fifty years, the growing popularity of tacos as “street food” and their increasing presence on social media has added to their desirability. At their core, tacos are an enjoyable, flavorful, inexpensive and casual hand-held food that inspires incredible culinary invention. Also, they go great with margaritas.

In Jacksonville, there are several restaurants of note that elevate tacos to new heights, some preserving traditional Mexican recipes while others infusing them with a more innovative touch. Whichever you prefer, following are just a few we believe you’ll enjoy.

Opening in 2005, about the same time that street foods were gaining recognition in other markets around the country, Burrito Gallery introduced flavors from down south as well as south of the border. Today, there are four Burrito Galleries peppered across the city, from the original Downtown location all the way out to Jax Beach. While the tacos can be customized with chicken, carnitas, ground beef, shrimp, steak and/or teriyaki tofu, the addition of chimichurri (a traditionally Argentinian condiment), adds noteworthy zest. Challenging longstanding tradi -

ZFlying Iguana’s Pork Belly Taco (above) and Steak Taco, at right.

tions, their “Keto” taco shuns both corn and flour tortillas in favor of a toasted cheese shell.

Another local favorite is TacoLu Baja Mexican . As the name implies, the menu at “Lu” offers an impressive assortment of stuffed tortillas—which is why there is usually a packed house at the Beach Boulevard landmark. A few of the more intriguing are “Black & Bleu” (blackened filet mignon, bacon, caramelized onion, mushrooms, bleu cheese), Asian inspired “Taco Rosa” (Ahi tuna, cabbage, cucumber/avocado salsa, ponzu, wasabi soy crema) and, for burger aficionados, the “Cheeseburger Taco” that includes everything you’d expect. Along with more than 300 tequilas and 150 varieties of mezcal on hand, a good time awaits. A table on the back porch is even more fun, weather permitting.

Of the many tacos available from the two local El Agave Azul restaurants (Neptune Beach and Baymeadows)—including carne asada, milida, pastor, chorizo, pollo, shrimp and more—their lengua (tongue) and tripas (tripe) varieties are a bit more adventurous. If you’re looking for something truly authentic, order the classic Birria tacos (shredded beef, melted cheese, onions, cilantro and a side of consommé). If you have a soft spot for poutine or disco fries, their “Taco Agave Fries” (topped with any meat, queso, mozzarella) is just the ticket. It’s a great dish to share. Not that you have to.

For truly authentic Mexican tacos, Taqueria Cinco is the real deal. The

ZEl Agave Azul Taco Plate (top) and Birria (above).

tiny 5 Points eatery in Riverside serves traditional favorites such as “Conchinita Pibil” (Yucatan style roasted pork), “Suadero” (braised beef brisket) and “Camarones” (shrimp). All are winners. More inquisitive diners should try the “Nopales” (grilled cactus, summer squash, blistered tomatoes, salsa quemada, frescotija) and “Repollitos” (Oaxacan mole negro glazed brussels, queso fresco, pickled onions, almond salsa). Don’t skip over the house made salsas including almond salsa, salsa quemada, and lime and arbol. And don’t leave without an order of “Esquites” (Mexican street corn with cotija, cholula mayo and chili-lime dust) on the side.

An altogether different style is available at El Jefe in Murray Hill. Specializing in Tex-Mex (dishes unique to the border of Texas and Mexico), their most distinctive taco is “El Jefe’s San Antonio Style Puffy Taco” (shredded lettuce, tomato, cheese with adobo braised chicken, refried bean or picadillo), sporting a shell made from masa that puffs up when fried. While margaritas are plentiful, you might like to check out their “Añejo Old Fashioned” (Herradura Añejo, bitters, orange, lime, brandied cherry) or Spaghetti Western (Campari, Herradura Añejo, sweet vermouth) cocktails.

Dos Vatos Tacos in Neptune Beach likes to say that while it’s a taco shop, the menu is definitely not Mexican. Instead, think of it an imaginative joint where everything just happens to be served on tortillas. The “Smashburger Taco” is a huge hit. Of note is the “Korean Street Taco” (Korean BBQ beef, napa slaw, sriracha mayo, crispy pickles) and “38th Special” (rock shrimp, datil honey butter, papaya slaw and fried rice noodles tossed in Old Bay). For fans of birria, try their “Quesabirria,” a broth grilled quesadilla (braised beef, chicken, pork, or jackfruit finished with consommé).

There are two Flying Iguanas in town (Neptune Beach and Avondale) and a third is on the way in San Marco. The Iguanas offer an eclectic menu that is something of a Latin fusion, influenced in part by traditions and flavors of Peru. While their “Steak Taco” (anticucho marinated steak, grilled onions, aji verde, fresno chiles, pepitas) is a crowd-pleaser, the “Crispy Pork Belly” (rum n’ coke glaze, watermelon, cotija, pickled onions) is equally enjoyable. Of particular note are the Peruvian influenced sauces including Aji Verde (creamy cilantro) and Aji Amarillo (Peruvian pepper), as well as the Flying Iguana hot sauce. There’s also guacamole made fresh at your table and an impressive wall of more than 100 varieties of tequila and mezcal. u

Dos Vatos Taco Meal (below).

El Jefe Puffy Tacos (below).

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.

1928 Cuban Bistro

Family-run establishment specializes in authentic Cuban cuisine, baked goods and cafe con leche. House specialties include guava and cheese pastries, chicken, beef and ham and cheese empanadas, and congri bowls made with white rice and black beans topped with choice of braised chicken or roasted pork. Of course, the Cuban sandwich (roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard on warm bread) is top seller. Flan, churros and tres leches for dessert. 3928 Baymeadows Rd., Baymeadows (683-8104); 160 Shops Blvd., St. Johns (209-5162); 6331 Roosevelt Blvd., 6331 Roosevelt Blvd., Ortega 1928bistro.com. B ,L, $$.

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.

PHOTO BY ANDREW VARNES

Coastal Wine Market

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 continuously operating dinner theater showcases famous plays such as Legally Blonde (September 28-November 5), Miracle on 34th Street (November 16-December 24). 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, $.

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 of the 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, $$$.

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 (306-0100; 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); 1700 3rd St., Jacksonville Beach (518-3915) thebeardedpigbbq.com. L, D $$.

Biscottis

This neighborhood landmark for more than two decades specializes in inno vative 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 (relocated from the Southside) 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 (7231300; 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 every thing 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 (8808310; 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 compliments 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 (295-3847; 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

New arrival to the San Marco area dining scene features 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 Market & Tasting Room

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 Angus Beef Sliders with Firecracker Sauce. 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, $$.

Costa Brava

Situated in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, Costa Brava 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/costa-brava-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 is 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, $$

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, $$$$.

Ember & Iron

An 8-foot oak-burning grill is the heart of the kitchen, searing and smoking house specialties such as lemon and herb roasted fish, ribeyes and seared salmon. Brunch favorites include buttermilk chicken, cast iron French toast and steak and eggs benedict. 60 Shops Blvd., #80., St. Johns (531-5185; emberandiron.com). D, SB, $$$.

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. $$$.

IN 1782, BRITISH LOYALISTS IN CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA hurriedly gathered their most prized possessions and loaded them onto a number of boats that made up a fleet evacuating the colonies as the Continental Army approached. Up to 16 of these ships wrecked on a sand bar as they tried to sail into St. Augustine harbor in late December. Marine archaeologists from the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum have excavated approximately 600 artifacts from these lost vessels. Found among the weapons, silverware, cauldrons, buckles and buttons is what’s been dubbed the “Oldest Grill.” The grill is handmade of wrought iron and was a common household possession of the time, and its threelegged design is remarkably similar to what today’s backyard barbecuers would place over charcoal fires. The grill is on display as part of the “Wrecked!” exhibit at the Maritime Museum. u

'TIS THE SEASON

Perhaps more than any other fruit, watermelon is synonymous with summertime. This is especially true in Florida, the nation’s largest producer of the cool, sweet melons. For many Florida growers, particularly those in the Suwannee Valley region, this year was the best season ever, with more than 22,000 acres producing well into July. The state’s warm spring temperatures mean Florida farmers typically get a jump on growers in Georgia and other more-northerly areas. In fact, colder temperaturea and lots of rain slowed growth in Georgia, leaving North Florida farmers with bushels of hungry buyers. “To have this happen on both the front and back end of any region’s season is quite unusual,” says Bob Hochmuth, assistant director UF/IFAS North Florida Research and Education Center. “So, to say is was a matter of supply and demand seems very textbook, but that was the case in May and June.” And while the pink and green melons are harvested throughout the state, the Suwannee Valley produces about 30 percent of the annual total. Oh, and the perfect watermelon? Shoppers prefer seedless varieties weighing 15 to 18 pounds. u

Fine Dining

The big event at this year’s Whiskey, Wine & Wildlife, November 2-5 in Vilano Beach, is Saturday’s Grand Tasting, a three-hour afternoon block party featuring nearly two dozen top area restaurants serving delish tastings and unlimited samples of wine, beer and spirits. However, the festival is introducing a pair of new upscale foodie fetes for 2023. Pesca by Michael’s is a four-course wine dinner hosted by chefs Michael Lugo and Rebecca Reed, taking place Thursday night at the new Pesca’s restaurant at the Hyatt Place Hotel. The evening opens with a rooftop cocktail reception ($225). Then, on Friday night, the Vilano A1A Soiree is an elegant sunset street party showcasing favorite area restaurants with a Hwy. A1A address. The five-course meal includes unlimited libations, signature cocktails, live music and more ($199). Patrons can enjoy the sun setting over the Intracoastal for free.  u

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 French-baked scallops, blackened redfish and crawfish étouffée. 46 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine (824-7765; hookedonharrys.com). L, D, $$.

JJ’s Bistro de Paris

With delicious French food, a handpainted French mural, and a replica of the Eiffel Tower, customers feel as if they are relaxing at a bistro in Paris. With a separate, yet just as talented pastry chef, you will find yourself indulging in the finest French desserts and pastries such as eclairs and fruit tarts. This one-ofa-kind restaurant offers the best of France in food, wine, and desserts. 7643 Gate Pkwy., Jacksonville (996-7557; jjbistro.com/gateparkway). 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 (2737980; 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, macaron 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, lepetitparisjax.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 (396-9922; 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 woodfired 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.

On the Road Again

Fall Festivals where delish eats and drinks are the main course.

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is one of the Southeast largest annual celebrations of all things edible and delicious. Running for more than three months beginning in the heat of the summer, autumn is arguably the best time to wander around the lake at the sprawling Disney attraction. This year’s fest runs through November 18, and each day and night guests can savor flavors from around the globe as they circle the World Showcase. There are more than two dozen international marketplaces serving eats from six continents including flavors from the Pacific paradise of Hawaii and savory ramen and noodle bowls being poured in the “Noodle Exchange.” Chicken tikka masala, Irish seafood pie, Belgian waffles, spanakopita, paella, Swiss raclette—the choices stretch on and on. A two-day, twopark ticket for Florida residents starts at $80 per day. Food will cost you more.

Also, in November in Orlando, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic returns for its 14th year November 10 and 11. The two-night event (5:30-9 PM) is a street party that spills out across the grounds of the two enormous hotels and treats guests to unlimited food and beverage tastings at food

stations from the property’s restaurants—tuna poke, smoked pork belly, crab cake sliders, among other dishes—and wine from around the world. Main event tickets start at $185 with room/event combo packages available.

heritage with live music, arts and crafts, craft beer and wine vendors, and oyster shucking contests. There’s even an Oyster Stew Cookoff and an oyster eating contest. Festival admission is $5 for adults, free for kids.

North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands, hidden gems on the state’s southeastern coast, are favored for their unspoiled beaches and laidback coastal atmosphere. Now in its 42nd year, the North Carolina Oyster Festival, October 21 and 22, has become a bonafide tradition, a two-day event that is held to highlight the region’s natural beauty, seaside towns, and fresh seafood. The local oyster harvest begins each fall and the annual festival, held at Ocean Isle Beach, celebrates the area’s

Sorghum is kind of like the Southern version of maple syrup. Each year, the north Georgia town of Blairsville hosts a festival that celebrates the traditional art of cooking sweet syrup from sorghum cane. In fact, the Blairsville Sorghum Festival, October 14-15 and 21-22, has been a part of the region’s heritage for more than 50 years. The two-weekend event  (9 AM-5 PM daily) captures the spirit of the local mountain communities with events such as log sawing, hatchet throwing, and demonstrations of how the sweet syrup is made from the sorghum plant, specifically crushing its stalks and heating the extruded liquid to steam off the excess water and leaving the thick syrup behind. You’ll want a hot biscuit handy for this demonstration. Local vendors will be hawking everything from handmade soaps to woodwork crafts. As a bonus, visitors get to enjoy the Georgia mountains fall foliage colors. Brasstown Bald, the highest peak in the Peach State, is about 30 minutes from Blairsville. u

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic

North Carolina Oyster Festival

WHISKEY WINE

WILDLIFE

Thursday, November 2nd - 5th

Pesca by Michaels

W3 Wine Dinner

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2ND at 6:00pm Vilano A1A Soiree

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD at 6:00pm

GTM Research Reserve Guided Tour

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4TH at 10:30am

W3 Grand Tasting

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4TH at 2:00pm

Sunday Jazz Brunch

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5TH early bird at 11:00am regular at 1:00pm

Their restaurants celebrate blues, with their Avondale location boasting one of the city’s most expansive whiskey selections and their Jacksonville Beach location featuring live music. 1607 University Blvd. W., Lakewood (732-7200, mojobbq.com); 1500 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach (2476636); 1810 Town Center Blvd., Fleming Island (264-0636); 3572 St. Johns Ave., Avondale (381-6670); 5 Cordova St., St. Augustine (342-5264). 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, $$$$.

Peony Asian Bistro

Known for their modern interpretations of classic Chinese dishes, their strip mall location belies the quality of their Cantonese-style plates and inviting atmosphere. Peony offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery. A must order is the peking duck. 10586 Old St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin (268-3889). L, D, $$.

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, $$.

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, $.

Ragtime Tavern

Open for more than 20 years, Ragtime is Northeast Florida’s oldest microbrewery. The menu is loaded with items like shrimp bruschetta, Louisiana crawfish and sautéed mussels. Try the bistro filet and crab-stuffed shrimp, Cajun fettuccine or the sesame tuna. 207 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (241-7877; ragtimetavern.com). L, D, SB, $$.

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 Saint-Marc 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, $$.

Foodie Fetes

TPC Sawgrass Nineteen Preview Dinner

On a Friday evening in July, executive chef Matt Voskuil hosted a select group of invited guests to preview the TPC Sawgrass clubhouse’s new menu. Voskuil, a native of Wisconsin, took the culinary reins at the prestigious club earlier this year. “With a personal passion for golf and the culinary industry, I couldn’t think of a more ideal opportunity to lead the exceptional team at TPC Sawgrass,” he says. Nineteen serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily and it’s menus are as long as a challenging par-5, offering nighttime specialties such as steak tartare, phyllo-crusted flounder, and the “Hundred Dollar Deviled Egg” with Osetra caviar and Moet Imperial bubbles. And, yes, it does cost $100.

Top Chefs

One of Northeast Florida’s most exclusive and delicious fundraising soirées returns for its 21st year September 8 and 9. Delicious Destinations, a benefit for the Ascension St. Vincent’s Foundation, is a two-night foodie extravaganza featuring the culinary talents of more than a dozen celebrated chefs from across the Southeast who gather to prepare exquisite dishes paired with wine. This year’s theme is Salt and Fire, and invited participants including chef Nathan Beriau from Montage Palmetto Bluff, chef Bogdan Boerean from the Mar-a-Lago Club and chef Steve Mengel from The Greenbrier will share the kitchen with local culinarians chef Tom Gray from Prati Italia, chef Darek Stennes from the River Club and event host, chef Hermann Muller from the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club. Last year, the event raised nearly $300,000, money that helped area patients with essential medical services, medications and health education. For tickets and more info, visit GiveStVincents.org/delicious-destinations. u

Oyster

Sand Bar

There are parts of Flagler Beach where the distance between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway is a mere three blocks. Highway A1A runs like an asphalt ribbon down the length of the coast, separating the sandy beach from miles of homes, condo complexes, surf shops and mom-and-pop restaurants. It’s here, a few miles south of Palm Coast, where The Golden Lion has been frying shrimp, broiling steaks and shucking oysters for about three decades.

The restaurant is a ramshackle affair with open-air seating on two levels. Up on the rooftop is a patio dotted with tables and umbrellas and the best views of the ocean across the road. Downstairs is a small stage for the musicians, an oyster shucking station, covered bar, plastic chairs, picnic tables and

MEAT ME THERE

Today’s vegan eateries aren’t reserved just for those trying to avoid the flavors and textures of beef and chicken.

BY JOSHUA SMITH

For many years, Jacksonville lacked notable vegan dining establishments, places that would attract meat-lovers and not just plant-eating devotees. This is slowly changing, thanks in part to restaurateurs such as Latasha and Lew Kaiser, who have opened KraVegan in San Marco. Despite the menu being completely plant-based, it still focuses on creating flavorful, and even meaty tastes. Standout entrees include “KraTacos”, smoked “Kravyback” ribs, and the Mongolian “unBeef” BBQ. Each dish contains a kick of spice that adds a vibrant punch to the meatless eats. Their sides are also noteworthy and include vegan mac n’ cheese, collard greens, French fries, jasmine rice and blackeyed peas. KraVegan offers a wide variety of drinks, sodas, kombucha, cocktails, non-alcoholic beer, and water. The interior is welcoming and warm, with quirky additions like the karaoke machine that sits in the front corner.

sand between your toes. The whole thing looks as if a couple of carpenter buddies got together over few weekends and built a seafood joint atop their surf shack. And everybody likes it that way.

Peel and eat shrimp are $15 for a half-pound. The seafood tower ($26-$42), a Golden Lion signature menu item, is just that—a tower of mussels, shrimp, oysters, clams and, if so desired, snow crab and lobster. The fish and chips ($18) is a hearty serving of fried Alaskan pollock, French fries and coleslaw. It’s big enough for two. Sesame-seared tuna, fried calamari, pesto-grilled shrimp tacos, and ginger soy grilled mahimahi highlight a menu laden with seafood specialties. Burgers, salads, jerk-spiced chicken wings and nachos are also offered, with most dishes priced less than $16. u

Located in arguably the quirkiest neighborhood in Jacksonville, Murray Hillbilly is as much of an experience as it is a restaurant. In addition to its kitschy appearance, the Edgewood Avenue establishment is somewhat inconspicuous and can be easily missed by one driving by. Its menu is peppered with burgers, loaded fries, and “chickun” items that include sandwiches, wings, and fingers. The plant-based wings come in a variety of flavors ranging from BBQ to Buffalo hot. Also, they contain an unusual twist not often found in chicken wing alternatives. The “chickun” is made with a sugarcane bone, a culinary fast one that makes the eating experience more reminiscent of traditional wings. Murray Hillbilly is deceptively spacious and quiet, and a fitting addition to Jacksonville’s funky Westside neighborhood. u

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, $$.

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 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, peel and 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, $$.

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 topnotch 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-of-the-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 (269-4198; whiteysfish-camp.com). L, D, $$. u

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

FLORIBBEAN BBQ-GLAZED MAYPORT SHRIMP

BY CHEF PETER NYE, PONTE VEDRA INN & CLUB

The Ponte Vedra Inn & Club has been a treasured First Coast destination for more than 90 years. Situated right along the beach, the resort features four pools, two golf courses, 15 tennis courts, a croquet lawn, spa and several dining options. Not one to rest on past laurels, the property is always looking for ways to grow and improve, such as the recent renovations to the oceanfront Summer House and St. Johns House accommodations. Recently, Chef de Cuisine Peter Nye shared with us a recipe for one of the Inn & Club’s more popular seafood dishes.

SHRIMP

6 fresh shrimp per person, peeled and deveined

Skewer shrimp and cook over high heat on a grill

When shrimp are half-cooked, turn over and brush with glaze

Serve immediately over pineapple coconut slaw

Garnish with scallion, cilantro, toasted sesame seed and fresh lime

CARIBBEAN JERK RUB

4 oz. yellow onion

1/2 oz. garlic

1/2 bunch cilantro

1-2 Habernero peppers

1/2 bunch scallions

2 oz. Turbinado sugar

24 grams salt

3 grams curry powder

3 grams allspice

30 grams paprika

8 grams dry thyme

12 grams crushed red pepper flakes

5 grams cumin

3 grams coriander

2 oz. fresh lime juice

4 oz. vegetable oil

Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender

FLORIBBEAN BBQ GLAZE

18 oz. mango puree

16 oz. granulated sugar

8 oz. rice wine vinegar

6 oz. Jerk Rub

Blend all ingredients for the jerk rub

In a small sauce pan, combine mango puree, sugar and vinegar

Cook over medium-low heat until reduced by half. Be careful not to let the sugar caramelize too much

Add the jerk rub and mix well.  Makes 32 oz.

PINEAPPLE COCONUT SLAW

1 lb. Napa cabbage, shredded

8 oz. red cabbage, shredded

8 oz. red bell pepper, julienned

8 oz. carrots, grated

1/2 bunch of cilantro (leafs only), chopped

For the Dressing:

2 oz. rice wine vinegar

2. oz. fresh lime juice

8 oz. coconut cream

salt to taste

Combine and toss all ingredients in a large bowl. u

e’re proud to be Jacksonville Beach’s hometown choice for casual classics. Guests love our laid-back atmosphere, friendly service, and of course, our tasty menu! 8A Jax Beach Icon for 20+ Years

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2023READERS

We’re proud to be Jacksonville Beach’s hometown choice for casual classics. Guests love our laid-back atmosphere, friendly service, and of course, our tasty menu!

Pablo Plaza | 319 23rd Avenue South | Jacksonville Beach, FL (904) 270-0356 | cruisersgrill.com

Pablo Plaza | 319 23rd Avenue South | Jacksonville Beach, FL (904)270-0356 | cruisersgrill.com

Only in Florida

Strange But True Stories from Across the Sunshine State

In July, what is believed to be the largest snake ever captured in the U.S. was bagged by Jake Waleri, 22, in the Big Cypress National Preserve. The 19-foot-long, 125-pound Burmese python didn’t go down without a fight. The female reptile was recorded repeatedly lunging at Waleri, who was able to subdue the snake before taping its mouth closed and placing it in a secure bag. Pythons have become a serious problem in Sunshine State wilderness areas, where they prey on native animals such as alligators, deer, and raccoons. According to the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, the previous record for a captured invasive python was 18 feet, 9 inches in length.

More from the wild kingdom. A Florida manatee died earlier this year after having what officials at the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium termed “high-intensity” sex with his brother. A necropsy revealed that 38-year-old Hugh died from traumatic injuries caused by a sexual encounter with another, larger manatee at the facility, his brother, Buffett. According to one news report, handlers at the aquarium had observed the animals engaging in consensual and natural mating behavior for approximately two months before Hugh’s death.

During a recent routine traffic stop, the Florida Highway Patrol found a mobile methamphetamine lab at the Official Welcome Center on I-95 Southbound just south of the Georgia-Florida state line. According to the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office, the Highway Patrol asked for assistance in securing the scene, which included shutting down the Welcome Center for several hours on July 6. The Nassau County Fire

Department was dispatched to the scene and a hazardous materials team was called in to clean up the meth. Two people were detained following the lab’s discovery.

Speaking of meth: Nikko Japanese Steak House in Pace abruptly shut its doors after an investigation by the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office found that some of the restaurant’s soy sauce was contaminated with the illegal drug. Suspicions were aroused when seven people were hospitalized after eating at Nikko in early July. Two table-top bottles and several unopened to-go packets of soy sauce were tested by detectives, who determined meth was present in the samples. No charges were filed or arrests made because deputies were “unable to determine who contaminated the food due to a lack of witness observations and surveillance footage,” news reports stated.

Police in Callaway arrested both Dixie Styles, 18, and Macy Regan, 23, following a brawl at a house party in late July. Sometime after midnight, a fight started at the party involving several men in attendance. Soon after, Regan tried to leave the soiree and walk to her house next door, according to police reports. Styles confronted Regan, accusing her of stealing alcohol and vape pens. Regan allegedly responded by brandishing a 9MM handgun, which she had tucked into her waistband. A physical altercation between the two ensued and, at some point, Regan bit the top of Styles' ear off. Both women received multiple bruises and cuts and paramedics were unable to re-attach Styles’ ear. u