The Modern Rose is more than just a café — it’s your all-day brunch destination, specialty coffee shop, and charming tea house, all in one. Indulge in our award winning menu, crafted with love and designed for everyone. From decadent vegan sweets and wholesome gluten-friendly meals to handcrafted boutique pastries, every bite is made to delight.
Sip on 50+ organic and boutique teas, or enjoy our specialty-grade, single-origin, locally roasted coffee, ground fresh and brewed in-house for the perfect cup every time.
Step into a space that transforms with the seasons, where every visit feels like home. As a woman-owned, mother-daughter business, we put heart into everything we do — because when you’re here, you’re family. We rose you!
Editor’s Note
No matter what you may have heard to the contrary, we are always able to start over. Whether we are correcting past errors or simply following a fresh perspective – or both – we have the luxury of creating a clean slate. Hope springs eternal.
And so it also goes with the late winter/early spring seasons here in Our Town. In February and March, St. Augustine’s weather never ceases to amaze me. Although we really never get slapped in the face by Old Man Winter as other areas of the nation do, it can occasionally be a bit dreary in the depths of February. I personally don’t cotton to anything below 50°F. But when the sun is shining, the winter skies stay clear, and there isn’t a chilly north wind blowing, Our Town is a spectacular place in which to wander.
When those bright, shiny days occur, outside dining is a great play to make. Bring your dogs. Whiling away a couple hours at an outside venue either downtown or out at St. Augustine Beach is a great way to enjoy the weather. And don’t be scared to venture down A1A to points south. Every mile of that splendid byway presents another opportunity for an adventure.
A walk along the bayfront can be magical, especially in the late afternoon, as the heat of the day gives way gently to the chill of the sunset air. You may find yourself having to layer up a bit by the waters of Matanzas Bay, but all is well – because exquisite dining awaits right across Avenida Menendez at St. Augustine’s newest fine dining crown jewel: Saint. What a wonderful find!
St. George Street and the entire downtown area are treasures when the air is just right. Whether you are doing some shopping or ducking into an art gallery for a glass of wine and a dose of appreciation, our downtown area features a dizzying array of options. There is always something to do here, and although most of it is not dependent on fine weather, it doesn’t hurt. March and April feature an incredibly deep lineup of festivals, From the St. Augustine Lions Seafood Festival to the St. Ambrose Festival – now celebrating its 142nd anniversary! Music abounds with the now famous Gamble Rogers Folk Festival. Indeed, from poetry to painting, all the arts will be well-represented this Spring.
I suppose we could say that not only does hope spring eternal, so does Spring in Our fine Town.
Get out and enjoy yourselves, and may Peace be with you.
‘Come’ means ‘eat’ in Español. In English, it is a suggestion to visit us for authentic Mexican food, from nachos to ceviche, to enchiladas, burritos, and [of course] tacos.
We are a taquería with full bar, preparing fresh delicious food. Dine in and curbside pickup.
My Corner Table My Corner Table
Let’s cut loose and discover a new bite in Our Town that we haven’t yet discovered. Making a courageous dining decision and dedicating ourselves to breaking out of food stereotypes that we consider comfort food is a very empowering event and easy to strategize in St. Augustine. Cherish the artistry of food. Meet a new chef. Sample a clever signature appetizer that has seemed out of bounds. Research reviews that you might have ignored in the past. Food is an art form and so much more than what we eat. Let new flavors linger on your tongue and yearn for a second helping!
Our food has tales to tell, and we love unveiling the history and tradition of celebrated dishes. Culinary heritage began in St. Augustine from the humble years of street food to royalty’s tables of elaborate feasts. Our town has captivated visitors and residents as a permanent settlement dating back 400+ years. Hunting our forests, cultivating our soil and fishing our waterways – wonderful stories of determined people who built our lasting traditions.
From the late 1700s to today, we continue to nurture our Spanish tradition with a treasure chest of recipes and classic cuisine. St. Augustine is proud to dine out, as we see new twists at chef’s tables 400 years later. There have been tough culinary ‘shoes to fill’ since Henry Flagler built the Ponce de Leon Hotel in the middle of our sleepy southern town. Imagine four wintry months of the year playing host to some of the wealthiest people of the Gilded Age (1886-1913) dining on extravagant meals – many of them lasting (or struggling) through eight courses. Today, eating outside the home is still a treat. We splurge on flavors that are more than one single note – especially
When craving the finer things in life with many chefs whose expressive individuality makes us cheer when something new is introduced. St. Augustine is a city of five flags and a symphony of flavors!
Enter the newly opened Saint restaurant. Imagine four centuries of chef’s tables that have been set at 44 Avenida Menendez! As early as 1702, the original Espinosa coquina building has undergone many major renovations. Archival stories
By Leigh Cort
about the intersection of Charlotte and Treasury Streets unveil architectural wonders. One of the oldest homes in the United States, take a tour and peek into this luxurious private dining room. It’s a noteworthy spot in American history.
Overlooking the expansive Matanzas River, with the historic Bridge of Lions to the East and historic city rooftops to the West, Saint wastes no time making an impression. It’s a ‘palace’ that unfolds into many stunning spaces. Each corner of the enclosed al fresco garden patio, romantic balconies, intimate stylish dining rooms, Saint’s rooftop cabanas within view of fireplace and comfy sofa fire pits – especially the Espinosa dining room with the original coquina walls – all will astound you wherever you choose to dine!
Owners Jeff McCusker and Bob Fleckenstein (River Restaurant Group) had a vision of “…the fabric of historical context in the community that has been through fires, hurricanes, floods every act of God and humanity, but has resiliently remained. It’s an incredible feeling to be stewards of this historical structure. We were able to protect its authentic identity and value in perpetuity”.
Saint is an ultra-fine restaurant positioned on this authentic property. It’s a brilliantly luscious creation with St. Augustine history woven into its story. It oozes with classic and contemporary sophisticated warmth. It’s an ode to the charm of another era while making every guest feel relaxed amid the subtle glam. McCusker and Fleckenstein knew that downtown St. Augustine had an opportunity to establish an Italian-inspired restaurant. They curated a menu and designed Saint around the city’s romantic and historical beauty.
The pivotal role of Executive Chef Derrick Haggerty pays homage to his made-fromscratch kitchen. He’s a ‘gentleman chef’ whose deeply passionate knowledge of food introduces a menu that emphasizes a combination of dreams and ideas that he makes into reality. Yes, it’s very approachable and upscale with a bit of a brushstroke of Mediterranean and Italian.
Executive Chef Derrick Haggerty, Saint Restaurant
There’s a nice surprise in almost every dish starting with Saint’s ‘Bread Service’ chef-baked daily. It’s an irresistible presentation of artisan breads served with a mélange of three spreads: Black Truffle Garlic Butter, Whipped Rosemary Ricotta and Wild Blossom Honey.
Creating the cocktail menu expresses Saint’s fun personality of dining or sitting at one of the picturesque bars – casual openair or at the snazzy 2nd floor grand bar. Trust your instincts and order one of the signatures: Saint Espressotini, The Consigliere, Bourbon & Berries or Gabagool (a blend of Grey Goose Vodka, lemon sorbet and Prosecco 22). Light, refreshing and perfect for lunch through late night, the little spoon takes you into the cocktail’s floating sorbet; expand your cocktail footprint into lemon heaven!
Oh, the Peppercorn Filet Mignon Carpaccio! It is so attractive that it’s impossible to leave one morsel on the plate, discover a masterpiece of 5-star carpaccio. When served, take a moment and savor the colorful presentation of perfectly paperthin slices of filet topped with capers, artichoke threads, Grana Padano cheese, sweet balsamic reduction and pickled red onion – topped with baby arugula.
Saint’s food and ambience are in synch – offering guests ‘fresh, creative and bold’ both in the menu and deciding where to sit and enjoy lunch, dinner or anytime. It’s amazing how dining trends shape today’s tastes and lifestyles. It’s nearly impossible to select one of his dishes over another. Each description is tempting –and many of the skilled caring servers (when possible) can offer a few photos that are tucked inside their phones!
Chef Derrick’s Lobster Arancini can’t be compared to any other Italian rice balls that you might recall from dining in the past. A richly dressed appetizer that could be an entrée any day, three large handpatted rice cakes are topped with coldwater lobster, smoked Mozzarella, surrounded by light Pomodoro sauce and Harissa aioli. A surprise here? The arancini are Caviar-topped!
“Cooking is my universal language. I’ve always done cooking –and now my passion is also to teach, train and develop the next generation – creating a team and inspiring them – which is fulfilling in so many ways. I want to be the best operator that I can be”.
There is one dish that could steal your heart from lunch to late night. The Amalfi Coast Seafood Cone is piled high with Shrimp, Scallops, Calamari, Loup der Mer and Spicy Tomato Sugo. The faux newsprint is delightfully whimsical. It’s a beautiful seaside treat where the gorgeous presentation elevates your senses immediately.
In addition to the rich, distinctive menu (take note that you are not going to easily decide during your first visit), the wine list is broad and deep, abundant with Italian selections and affordably priced from New Zealand, Germany, Spain and France by both the glass and by the bottle. Toast the moment at Saint and the true reflection of its history in which it was seeded. You don’t have to travel far to savor their waterfront courtyard ‘on the Amalfi Coast’. But you will have an experience that provides a unique identity filled with tales to tell of history, outstanding food and friends.
It’s a love story to celebrate life in the heart of St. Augustine.
The Storyteller
By Marie Mantanona-Milton
True Guest Stories from Three Stories Inn
The Storyteller True Guest Stories from Three Stories Inn
At Three Stories Inn, our walls hold the spirit of storytelling. We believe every stay has a story. Through nominations, selected Guests are gifted a weekend in one of the novel apartments at the inn: The Foreword, The Prologue, or The Epilogue. This month, we have selected Samantha Burnell-Hoch as our featured story. Samantha has chosen to stay in the Foreword Room where she shares her story.
The Foreword
In the story, you’ll meet Samantha — a woman whose story embodies bravery and an unyielding spirit. Samantha’s journey stands as a powerful testament of grit and grace. Just two years ago, she lost her father to melanoma, only to face the same heartbreaking diagnosis herself soon after. A year later, it advanced, and she is currently battling aggressive Stage 3 melanoma with the same fierce determination. With long blonde hair flowing like a banner of resilience, she is armed with a contagious laugh, an unwavering Canadian spirit, and an adventurous “gypsy soul”. Her story is one of inner strength, joy in the face of hardship, and the relentless pursuit of life’s fullest moments. A fiery soul, her journey is inspirational, ruthless, authentic, and beautiful. Just meet her, and your heart will be moved by this merciless and impenetrable blaze. Her motto? “Hakuna Matata!”
The Prologue
Since the beginning, life has always been with her daughter, Olivia, a lovely old soul. A single mom, it wouldn’t be until 2024 that Sam would marry Mike, a single Dad, who brought bonus son Brayden, a giddy sweet spirit, to the crew. “I found the love of my life,” Samantha shares, piercing your heart with unshakable truth. And like all great love stories, this one is a testament of making the most of each moment with friendship, passion, and honesty. Mike has made the hard and dark times full of hope: He is her place of refuge, stillness, and peace throughout this journey. He also knows how much Samantha loves Christmas. Anyone that knows Samantha knows that Christmas is her favorite time of the year. One day, she wishes to see the Rockefeller Christmas tree in NYC at Christmas time with her family and friends.
The Epilogue
It’s funny, People always say, ‘Sam, you look so great!’ I tell them, ‘It’s the bronzer.’ Little do they know how hard my nights have been, how tired and isolated this has made me. But I show up, and I find some days easier than others. Looking back at it all, I want to talk about what’s really behind, ‘the bronzer’. I want to let others know it’s more than ‘skin deep’. We need more representation.” This year, Samantha has created “Get the SKINny”, an organization that advocates and raises awareness in skin cancer. She also loves her bronzer, and shares tips to help other survivors.
She wants to make a difference.
Shine, Samantha. Shine.
About the author:
Inspired from her journeys as a caregiver during her late mother’s battle with stage 4 stomach cancer, Marie created Three Stories Inn to remind travelers to make the most of each moment and write stories of their own. For more information about Three Stories Inn and nominations, visit www. threestoriesinn.com
Say hello to Samantha.
A Taste of Macondo
Florentino’s Eternal Elixir
This cocktail captures the romantic and melancholic essence of García Márquez’s novel, reflecting the longing of Florentino Ariza for Fermina Daza through flavors that are deep, floral, and evocative of the warm tropics.
INGREDIENTS
St Augustine Distillery rum
Represents the patience of Florentino’s love, aged and refined over time.
Hibiscus & Rose Syrup
A nod to the letters Florentino wrote and the fading yet fragrant memory of love.
Fresh Guava Juice
A tropical, sweet-tart fruit often associated with Latin American romance.
Lime Juice
Adds a touch of sharpness, representing the bitter moments of unfulfilled love. And Florentino’s character.
A Dash of Chocolate Bitters and coriander
Symbolizing the depth of emotions and the passage of time.
Egg White
Creates a silky, poetic foam reminiscent of the waves on the Magdalena River.
GARNISH and PRESENTATION
Edible Rose Petal
Representing the love letters Florentino sent for decades.
Dehydrated Guava Slice
A visual nod to the novel’s Colombian setting.
Spring Fever Junk drawers, Dragonfruit, and Hope
By Susan Swearingen
There’s something about Spring that makes us finally face the truth about our junk drawers, our workarounds, our “I’ll deal with that later” promises. Maybe it’s how the warm breezes carry whispers of possibility. Or perhaps it’s just being far enough into a new year that the momentum of growth feels real, tangible – like something we can finally grab onto.
Take that kitchen junk drawer – that universal symbol of resigned disorder. We all have one, that catch-all space that’s a daily exercise in frustration, where every attempt to find the scissors becomes an archaeological dig through gift cards, mysterious keys, and rubber bands. It’s amazing what we learn to work around, the small daily surrenders we make to dysfunction until they become so routine we barely notice them anymore.
But then Spring arrives, and suddenly these accommodations feel less acceptable. The season seems to ask: What else have you been tolerating? What workarounds have become so familiar you’ve forgotten they’re not actually solutions? There’s something powerful about finally emptying that drawer onto the counter, about confronting the accumulated evidence of a life in progress –the birthday candles from celebrations past, spare buttons from clothes long gone, dried-out pens and orphaned screws. Each item poses a question: What am I keeping? What am I ready to let go?
These questions feel especially potent this year. My father’s passing has left me craving order, clarity, forward motion. I find myself drawn to organizing and renewal with an almost magnetic pull, as if bringing order to my physical spaces might help me make sense of this transition. It’s not just about tidying up – it’s about making room for what’s next.
The satisfaction of bringing order to chaos is profound. Each organized drawer, each cleared surface becomes a small victory, a declaration that we deserve spaces that serve rather than hinder us. There’s something almost alchemical about the process: the way a jumbled drawer transforms into a functional tool, how a cluttered space becomes one that actually supports our daily life. These aren’t just aesthetic changes; they’re fundamental shifts in how we interact with our environment.
That’s what Spring has always been trying to teach us, I think –that renewal requires both letting go and welcoming in. Just as the season doesn’t merely add new growth but actively clears away winter’s debris, our own renewal demands both release and reach. We clear out the old takeout menus to make space for new possibilities. We let go of the mysterious keys to unlock different doors.
And sometimes we even take on slightly ridiculous new projects. True story: I’m currently building a wooden trellis for a dragonfruit plant – a venture I started with my own perfectly reasonable Florida logic of “Why buy tropical fruit when I could build an elaborate support structure, nurture a plant that may or may not thrive, and possibly harvest my own fruit sometime in the distant future?” Standing in the hardware store, mentally comparing the price of lumber and supplies to the cost of simply buying dragonfruit at the market, I had to laugh at myself. But there’s something beautiful about embracing these slightly absurd acts of hope, about choosing growth even when we’re not quite sure where it will lead.
In the end, maybe that’s what all this Spring organizing and renewal is really about – not just creating order, but creating possibility. Each cleared space becomes an invitation to what’s next, each organized drawer a small act of faith in the future. We’re not just fixing what’s broken or tidying what’s messy – we’re making room for whatever new growth this season might bring.
I’m Kate Mitchell.
I offer exclusive residential and commercial properties both locally and globally. With 30 years experience in St. Augustine real estate, I have developed a keen understanding of our local market and a strong background in investment real estate. My natural affinity for renovation design and proven success in the Home Staging business allow me to bring an elevated experience to the Buyers and Sellers I work with. Thinking about moving or purchasing property abroad? With my extensive international network and connections I will be able to guide you seamlessly through the process.
The possibilities are endless. I look forward to assisting you.
Pedrito Artist
The Art of Emotion
Her tiny face glows with pure love and joy, her silent voice woven into the colors. A fleeting moment, yet infinite. Light sparkles in her eyes— bright, untamed, and filled with wonder, untouched by the weight of the world’s judgments.
For Pedrito Artist, painting is a way to communicate emotions that words cannot capture. With a background in engineering, his journey into the world of visual arts has been fueled by a lifelong fascination with human expression. His work focuses on the face as a powerful storyteller, capturing the deep and unrestrained emotions that define the human experience.
Pedrito’s portraits go beyond realism; they seek to unveil the essence of his subjects. “A single look can hold an entire story,” he reflects. “My goal is to bring that story to life on canvas.” His work invites viewers to engage with the emotions of his subjects, forming a connection that feels both personal and universal.
Working primarily with oils and acrylics, Pedrito employs delicate brushwork and layered textures to create depth and intensity in his portraits. Each piece is crafted with careful attention to light and shadow, emphasizing the complexity of human emotion. His use of color and form brings an expressive quality to his work, making each portrait feel alive.
Hailing from Colombia, Pedrito has gained recognition for his ability to evoke deep emotions through his art. His work has touched varied audiences across many different cultures, resonating with those who appreciate the sheer vulnerability and sincerity captured in his paintings. As he continues to develop his craft, he remains committed to pushing artistic boundaries and exploring new ways to translate emotion onto blank canvas.
Pedrito is now currently showing at Art Box Gallery, where his latest works are on display. Additionally, prints of his artwork are available for purchase at La Cocina Bistro, offering more opportunities for art lovers to bring his expressive pieces into their own spaces.
Liquid Visions
A Fusion of Glass and Color
Waves of color move with the music, glass and light shimmer in bright patterns. Nature’s rhythm unfolds, bold and free, a dance of hues coming together in harmony.
For Steve and Susan, the artistic journey is deeply personal, rooted in the creative legacy of their father, whose passion for craftsmanship and artistic expression inspired their own path. As a brother and sister duo, their shared passion for art has fueled their creative endeavors for years. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant hues of nature and the deep emotions tied to human experience, they create abstract works that are as thought-provoking as they are visually striking.
Specializing in acrylic and epoxy modern abstract art, their work is distinguished by its unique blend of recycled glass and natural elements, seamlessly woven into mesmerizing compositions. “We believe that art should evoke emotion and spark conversation,” says Steve. “Each piece is an exploration of color, movement, and depth.”
With decades of experience, Steve and Susan have honed their craft, mastering the art of blending materials into striking decorative works. Their expertise in chemical reactions allows them to push the boundaries of texture and form, transforming raw elements into captivating, sensory-rich creations. Each piece is a dance between transparency and opacity, fluidity and structure — resulting in truly one-of-a-kind expressions of artistic innovation.
Liquid Visions is currently on display at Art Box Gallery, where their latest collection is available for viewing, purchase and custom commissions. Each piece reflects their signature fusion of color, movement, and light, inviting viewers into a world where abstract expression meets subtle beauty. Beyond the gallery, Steve and Susan frequently collaborate with reggae musicians, creating custom works that embody the rhythm and spirit of live performances. Their art resonates with collectors who seek dynamic, statement-making pieces, whether for homes, businesses, or creative spaces.
Lenny Foster
In Search of the Light
As the magnolia unfolds, its petals are heavy with untold stories, pressing softly against the silence of rooms that refuse to listen. In stillness, it lingers, carrying a quiet ache for recognition—its fragrance a whisper, waiting to be heard.
For Lenny Foster, photography is a spiritual practice, a search for beauty in the everyday. What began with a secondhand camera became a lifelong pursuit of light, form, and emotion — capturing the extraordinary within the ordinary.
For two decades, he owned The Living Light Photography Gallery in Taos, New Mexico, with his work exhibited in major museums and collections. His series Healing Hands, Enchanted Land, and Winter Retreat at Mabel’s transform emotion into visual poetry, honoring the depth of human experience. Since relocating to St. Augustine in 2017, Lenny’s Street Saints project has reimagined Catholic saints of African descent, casting unhoused individuals as models. By weaving historical iconography with present-day realities, he sparks awareness and compassion. Proceeds from the series support local organizations aiding the homeless.
His Magnolia Season collection captures the flower’s fleeting elegance — a meditation on grace, impermanence, and the sacred in nature’s details. Through light and shadow, he invites viewers to pause, to witness, to feel. Lenny’s artistic journey is one of deep observation and reverence, where each image serves as both a reflection and a conversation. Whether capturing the soulful gaze of a Street Saint or the delicate unfolding of a magnolia, his work bridges the past and present, the seen and unseen. Through his lens, the ordinary becomes sacred, and the fleeting becomes eternal.
Lenny’s fine art photography is on display at his gallery, Gallery One Forty-Four in St. Augustine, offering a window into his vision of beauty, resilience, and humanity. To step into his world is to sit with a sage, a quiet master of light and presence —a n invitation not just to see, but to truly understand.
Alexter Albury
A Flame Reignited
A candle flickers beside a man in the shadows, its flame yearning to burn brighter as he speaks of failures and regrets. The flame trembles with his labored breath, urging him to shed his mask and reveal the freedom only it sees. In its light, his story is carried— a reminder that even what was once perceived to be forgotten, can always be reignited.
Art has always been more than just a creative outlet for Alexter Albury, it has been his sanctuary, a realm where emotion and imagination intertwine. From an early age, art offered him an escape, a way to explore his innermost thoughts and feelings.
Frequently using himself as the subject, he infuses his art with deeply personal narratives. “I never had formal training in traditional techniques,” he shares. “But painting became my way of expressing my inner world more clearly.” Alexter works primarily with pen and ink, graphite, and acrylic, mediums that enable him to explore the intricate nuances of the human form.
Each piece becomes a unique challenge and an opportunity to push beyond his comfort zone and experiment with new techniques. For Alexter, success isn’t measured by sales or accolades but by the connections his work forms with those who experience it. “When someone sees my art and truly feels something—when it resonates with them on a deep level—that’s when I know I’ve succeeded,” he explains.
From a young age, Alexter dreamed of a gallery and café where emerging artists could share their stories. Now, as Director of Emerging Artists at Art Box Studios, he is turning that vision into reality, fostering a creative space where new talent thrives, finds opportunity, and gains the recognition they deserve.
Alexter Albury’s paintings have gained ongoing recognition in numerous galleries and shows across Florida, with his work currently featured at Art Box Gallery.
His powerful, evocative pieces captivate his audiences, inspiring deep emotion, reflection, and meaningful connection.
In the Arts
By Robert Waldner
Alberto Cebollero
Watching Alberto Cebollero perform, whether solo or hyping the crowd as he jams with Ramona and the Riot, it’s tough to imagine that he wasn’t born with a guitar in his hands. However, music has always been Alberto’s labor of love. “While my parents had eclectic tastes in the music they listened to, nobody in my family was ever a musician,” he says. “My first time experiencing guitar up close was watching my friend’s father play, who was a pastor at a local church. That was when I was first truly enamored with music.” Ever since his parents gifted him his first guitar at twelve, Alberto has been a student of his craft, dialing in to become the musician he is today. “It is easy for a kid so young to become distracted and lose interest in just about anything,” he says. “Fortunately, I had a group of friends I could hang out with and jam with after school. I think that was conducive to keeping me engaged.” Later, while attending St. Augustine High School, Alberto joined the guitar program. “That is where I learned classical guitar,” he says. “While I play mainly jazz guitar now, those skills were a solid foundation for me.”
In his twenties, Alberto made a huge move to New York city, where he added classical flute and piano to his arsenal of talent. “While I didn’t play professionally there, it was my first big exposure to jazz at an expert level,” he says. While navigating the terrain of NYC life, Alberto found refuge in many of the city’s nooks and crannies, listening to its purveyors of fine jazz. “I also got a job selling high end saxophones,” he says. There, among his diverse clientele, Alberto met the great saxophonist, Pharoah Sanders, who gained notoriety with John Coltrane’s band in the 1960’s and later had a stellar solo career. “I had a lot of great conversations with him,” he says. “His classic cover of ‘After The Rain’ remains one of my favorites. I reminisce often of Pharoah and how he has impacted my career.”
After his stint in New York, Alberto returned to St. Augustine. Utilizing his experiences and what he had learned of the music industry in the Big Apple, he turned his homecoming into a catalyst for his musical achievement and presence in the local business scene. “I became focused on what I wanted to achieve,” says Alberto. “I met my wife Jeanetta, we formed a band, and I started playing music professionally.” However, overnight success was never on the table. “I played a lot of gigs for 75 to 100 bucks,” he says. “But I used that time to hone my skills and become more dedicated to my craft.”
Since his return to the Ancient City, Alberto has been on a mission based in harmony with the world around him. With both the co-founding of Ramona and The Riot and opening of the successful jazz bar and restaurant Chez L’Amour with Jeanetta, Alberto is in a realm that nurtures love through the conveyance of music. “We wanted to open a venue that fosters a community for music lovers,” he says. The couple’s community support goes far beyond giving it a roof and a stage. Together, they own Ancient City Entertainment, producing events including ‘As If 90’s Fest’ and Palatka’s ‘Blue Crab Festival’. Through their charitable organization, ‘Ace Alliance’, Alberto and Jeanetta donate festival funds for medical care and disaster relief to music and service industry members. “We lost our home in Hurricane Matthew,” he says. “We know what it means to be supported and we are honored to be able to give back.”
Alberto’s drive and humility keep him honest about his personal relationship with music. “I like to challenge myself to play tunes that take me out of my comfort zone,” he says. “When I perform, I think deliberately about my set list and strive to always represent the mission of the show I’m playing.” Mindful of his everevolving journey, Alberto remains resolved in his vocation. “I will always aspire to play better and bring my music to a wider audience,” he says. “Much of my progress has come from being a better listener. Putting in the work has paid off exponentially.”
TOTALLY ST. AUGUSTINE
March 21-22: Mozart’s The Magic Flute by First Coast Opera
First Coast Opera celebrates its 25th Anniversary with a return to its very first opera, Mozart’s timeless The Magic Flute. Follow the adventures of Prince Tamino and the bird-catcher Papageno as they seek to free Princess Pamina from the nefarious Queen of the Night. Full of beautiful melodies and dazzling characters, this mysterious and magical tale will captivate audiences of all ages. Friday, March 21 at 7:30 PM and Saturday, March 22 at 4 PM at Kirk Memorial Auditorium at Florida School for the Deaf and Blind.
www.firstcoastopera.com/magic-flute
March 29-30: St. Augustine Lions Seafood Festival
The 42nd annual St. Augustine Lions Seafood Festival returns to Francis Field with seafood delicacies and all kinds of cuisine and county fair foods, live entertainment for the whole family, kids rides and 100 craft artisans. Enjoy two days of great food and fun including a live music lineup featuring regional and local favorites. As always, the festival will serve up traditional fish and shrimp, lobster rolls and Cajun specialties but this year, there’s way more food selections to please all palates. F The Arts & Crafts village closes at sundown. No pets allowed except service animals. A downtown shuttle will run from free parking areas. lionsfestival.com
March 30: St. Ambrose Fair
The 142nd annual St. Ambrose Fair will be held from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 30, 2024 at St. Ambrose Catholic Church and grounds, 6070 Church Road, in Elkton, from State Road 207. This is St. Johns County’s oldest fair! The most popular item at the fair is the Minorcan clam chowder, prepared by Mary Ellen Masters and crew, which features the famous Datil pepper and a recipe that has been passed down for generations. The crew makes 190 gallons and it all sells out every time! Other menu items include pulled pork dinners, French fries, hot dogs and hamburgers, cheeseburgers, boiled peanuts, homemade desserts, ice cream, soda, water, and beer. An ATM will be on site. Church tours, children’s games, hay rides, 50/50 raffle, silent auction, and live music by Money for Nothing. FREE Admission.
April 11-12: Gamble Rogers Folk Festival
A heritage music event in St. Johns County, the Gamble Roger Folk Festival honors folk music icon Gamble Rogers, a musician who had national fame in the 1970s and 1980s, traveling the county and performing at folk festivals. The event is at the St. Johns County Fairgrounds in Elkton, Florida — with four stages, 40 artists, food trucks, workshops, vendors and more Rogers was a pivotal figure in American folk music. His status as a local figure was memorialized after his tragic passing on October 10, 1991 when he drowned attempting to save a swimmer in distress off Flagler Beach. gamblerogersfest.org
April 19: St. Augustine Easter Parade
The St. Augustine Easter Parade kicks off at 9 AM at the Old Jail at 167 San Marco Avenue in St. Augustine, Florida and follows the route south on San Marco Avenue to Avenida Menendez to Cathedral Place and ending on Cordova Street. This Easter tradition started in 1958 and featured horses wearing Easter bonnets and hats decorated by well-known women throughout the state of Florida. Floats, marching bands, community groups and other organizations will be part of the parade.
www.oldestcityeaster.org
April
26:
Ocala Symphony Orchestra
Join EMMA Concert Associations for an unforgettable evening of captivating music on Saturday, April 26 at 7:30 p.m. with Conductor Matthew Wardell of the Ocala Symphony Orchestra! Experience the grandeur and beauty of Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture, the vibrant rhythms of American composer Michael Daugherty’s Rio Grande, and the sweeping landscapes of Smetana’s The Moldau. The concert culminates with RimskyKorsakov’s iconic Scheherazade, a thrilling journey through captivating storytelling and rich orchestral textures. Don’t miss this exciting program that promises to transport you through music’s most mesmerizing landscapes and tales.
April 27: A Taste of St. Augustine
This signature food festival takes place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 27 at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre — serving up tastes from St. Augustine’s famous restaurants. The area’s best restaurants will offer samples of their signature dishes. Restaurants will compete for the prestigious TOStA (Taste of St. Augustine) awards, with categories including Best Family Dining, Best Ethnic, Best Upscale and Best Dessert, as well as the ever-popular People’s Choice. Everyone gets to vote. There will be children’s area with fun activities including crafts and facepainting as well as live music throughout the day. Admission is $5. Taste tickets are $1 each, with restaurants charging between 1-5 tickets per taste. Amphitheatre: 1340 A1A South.
Ongoing: Peña-Peck House Museum and Gift Shop
The Woman’s Exchange of St. Augustine partners with the City of St. Augustine to maintain the circa 1750 historic house and runs the Artisan Gift Shop with a mission of Women Helping Women, supporting artists/makers, and raising funds for college scholarships for local women age 30-plus. The house and gardens is also available as a wedding and special events venue. E-mail info@penapeckhouse.com
HISTORIC HOUSE TOURS: Wednesday-Saturday 12-4
ARTISAN GIFT SHOP: Wednesday-Saturday 12-4:30
By Kit Keating
South of St. Augustine, as you wind down the coastal highway, there is a stretch of old Florida coastal hammock that beckons to anyone willing to make the short trip. Located a few miles south of Marineland, Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is a beautiful, magical spot that exemplifies the Old Florida that we too often miss these days.
Florida Coastal Hardwood Hammock
Florida’s A1A Scenic Coastal Highway is a wonder unto itself. Hugging the coastline in a tight embrace as it runs from Amelia Island to Key West, this beautiful stretch of road has beckoned millions to drive its miles of asphalt. It generally runs parallel to and just west of the salt water. Just south of Marineland, however, A1A takes a westward bend and threads through a magical area called The Hammock.
A coastal hardwood hammock is a habitat that is found on higher elevations, making a dry habitat. To walk into a hardwood hammock is to walk through a shady forest of oaks, cedars, and palmettos. The Hammock boasts ancient live oak trees as the crown jewel of the area’s habitat, and for years was way off the beaten path.
A Gem in Florida’s State Park Crown
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park sits squarely in this stretch of coastal hardwood hammock, and it is worth the short trip. Over the years, the area had a number of owners and was used for various agricultural purposes. A surveyor named George Washington, a relative of President George Washington, also bought the tract. In 1936, Louise Clark, wife of the industrialist Owen D. Young purchased the property as a winter retirement home. She coined the name “Washington Oaks” for the property and is developed the park’s formal gardens, citrus groves, and house. The property to the State of Florida in 1964 by Louise. Her donation specified that the “gardens be maintained in their present form”. That was an enlightened move.
Today, the Park offers trails, gardens, intracoastal walkways, picnicking areas, and a general feeling of calm relaxation. Strolling through the area, you’ll be immersed in Old Florida. And the smell of the salt water while you stand under oaks is perhaps the best expressionof this
And across A1A, there’s this magnificent coquina rockbeach...
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park Secret Spots
Secret Spots
Coquina? What’s coquina?
St. Augustine was founded partially as a military outpost to guard against competing interests that were threatening the Spanish Treasure fleet route home from the Caribbean. The first fort in the settlement of San Agustín was constructed of wood. The Spanish engineers complained that there were no stones to be found in the land, and their complaints were validated in 1668 when English Privateer Robert Searles partially burned the wooden fort. Over on Anastasia Island, they had discovered coquina some time before. This rock is formed by the accretion of seashells over thousands of years. It formed the basis of the new construction of the Castillo out of necessity – and what a building material! It has truly stood the test of time.
Coquina runs in veins, and the beach at Washington Oaks sports an exposed vein of this ancient rock. It runs for a few miles and has been shaped by the elements into a fantasy pattern of whorls and pockets, forming nook, crannies, and tidal pools that hide nature’s gems. This beach is truly a one of a kind experience.
Easy to find
Head south on A1A. You’ll pass Matanzas Inlet, then Marineland. A couple miles later, the entrance to the Park is on your right. There is plenty of parking. You’ll drive across A1A to the east to get to the beach. Devote two to three hours to truly enjoy the place. There are a few good restaurants in the Hammock as well!
Experience this secret spot soon...but please don’t tell anyone you heard about it here.
St. Francis House Hope for Homelessness
By Cathlene Miner
For 41 years, St. Francis House has been a pillar of hope and transformation for homeless men, women, and families in St. Johns County. Since its establishment in 1984, the shelter has provided not just a safe haven but a path forward for individuals facing the devastating realities of homelessness. As the only comprehensive, low-barrier shelter in the county, St. Francis House embraces a housing-focused approach, ensuring each client works with a case manager to develop a personalized plan toward stability and self-sufficiency. With the anticipated completion of a new Family Shelter, the capacity for families with minor children will more than double, allowing the organization to extend its reach and impact even further.
While the shelter continues to be a beacon of hope, significant challenges persist. The most pressing issue? Affordable housing. The majority of those served by St. Francis House are working individuals or those on a fixed income, making it incredibly difficult to secure safe and sustainable housing. Despite these obstacles, St. Francis House remains steadfast in its mission, working tirelessly to remove barriers and create opportunities for those striving to rebuild their lives.
Amanda’s Journey
Imagine being a single mother of three, working full-time as a Certified Nursing Assistant, and suddenly finding yourself homeless. This was Amanda’s reality. A disagreement with a family member left her and her three young children without shelter, facing an uncertain future. With no savings and a history of past evictions, her housing options were severely limited. The streets seemed to be the only alternative.
Fortunately, Amanda found her way to St. Francis House’s Housing Crisis Center. Determined to reclaim stability, she took full advantage of the resources provided, saving money, securing essential documents for her children, and addressing the barriers standing in the way of permanent housing. Thanks to the generosity of donors and the unwavering support of the shelter’s team, Amanda received the keys to her own apartment. Tears of relief and gratitude marked the beginning of a new chapter for her and her children. Today, they are thriving in their home, a testament to the transformative power of community support. St. Francis House is more than just a shelter, it’s a support system designed to address the many needs of those experiencing homelessness. Through strategic partnerships, the shelter provides onsite medical care, mental health services, substance abuse resources, and veterans’ support. These programs are crucial in ensuring that individuals not only find temporary relief but also gain the tools and support necessary for long-term stability. The success of St. Francis House is deeply intertwined with the generosity and commitment of the local community. Businesses and
organizations contribute through initiatives like Chef’s Night Out, service projects, event sponsorships, and volunteer opportunities. These partnerships amplify the shelter’s impact, ensuring more individuals receive the help they desperately need.
How You Can Make a Difference
With the new Family Shelter set to open in late summer, the needs of St. Francis House are evolving. The best way to offer support? Stay connected and informed. Whether it’s donating essential supplies, volunteering time, or providing financial contributions, every act of kindness makes a tangible difference. As the opening date approaches, updated lists of needs will be shared with the community, offering new opportunities to get involved.
St. Francis House is committed to filling the gaps in services for the homeless population. With a strategic plan focused on expansion, the shelter aims to extend its reach to include more unaccompanied youth, ensuring that no individual is left without support. By identifying and addressing the most urgent needs, St. Francis House continues to evolve, adapt, and provide life-changing solutions for those facing homelessness. The work of St. Francis House is only possible through the compassion and generosity of those who believe in its mission. Together, we can build a future where every person has a place to call home. To learn more about how you can contribute, visit https://www.stfrancisshelter.org.
Because at St. Francis House, hope isn’t just a word.
It’s a promise.
The team at St. Francis house poses in front of the soon to be completed Family Shelter, set to open in late summer of this year.
Very
By Chris Bodor
Poetry has been alive in St. Augustine for many years. It is in the air. Words in the swaying magnolia trees. Words in the morning Bayfront sunrise.
In August of 2009, under the name Ancient City Poets, a last Sunday of the month open mic series started up. Also going on in town during that era was a long running poetry reading series that ran on Monday nights at Backstreets on Spanish Street. By January of 2010, the Sunday afternoon poets had taken the reigns from the Monday night crew. All these years later, the Ancient City Poets still gather on the last Sunday of the month to celebrate creative writing and reciting.
It is a much-documented fact that writers are attracted to St. Augustine. Zora Neale Hurston completed her autobiography, “Dust Tracks on a Road,” while living on West King Street. Pulitzer Prize winning author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings had a residence at Crescent Beach, in addition to her well-known orange grove homestead in Cross Creek, near Gainesville.
A thriving literary past and present puts us on the map. Literary tourism is a thing. Recently, Ray McNiece went on a book tour, traveled from Cleveland. He performed at Spencer Abbott’s on San Marco Avenue, as well as stops in Orlando, and St. Petersburg. “I’ve sojourned in Florida since I was 17,” says Ray. He was touring in support of his new book “Bone Key Sutra” (Sea Story Press). “This book is a compendium of my writings during my extensive visits. I’ve always considered it a second home.”
Another feather in our literary cap is the City of St. Augustine’s Poet Laureate Program. “I am so grateful for the creation of the Poet Laureate position within our city.” said Norma Sherry, who served as the City’s first Laureate. “It has given voice to many of us who write and desire to be heard and acknowledged. Even more so, it has given greater awareness to the role of poetry upon society.”
Robert Waldner is a local poet and author who has met countless visitors and fellow residents who have come alive as writers just from being surrounded by St. Augustine’s pure beauty and history. “There is enthusiasm and camaraderie among local poets that I never experienced anywhere else or at any other time in my life,” says Robert. “Throughout history, ordinary people here, just like me, have had their words read and voices heard just by writing down their feelings and experiences.”
Very Literary Scene and Heard Around Town
Literary Scene and Heard Around Town
Another voice of our city is playwright and poet Amy Lauer Goldin. “We live in a fast-paced global world of Tik-Tok, sound bites, and social media posts,” says Amy. “Given that, it is a special pleasure to live in a community that still respects and celebrates literature in all its iterations. We are a city filled with poets, playwrights, novelists, songwriters and more. It is our duty as artists to keep the flame of literature alive, and I am happy to say that the flame is burning bright here in St Augustine”.
Thursday (evening) April 10
Waterworks:
Beat Poet Summit followed by Open Mic
Friday (day) April 11
Ringhaver Student Center:
Dolly Parton Poetry Workshop, Black Out Poetry, Poet Showcase. Keynote Presentation.
Friday (evening) April 11
Relampago: English Department Open Mic
Saturday (day) April 12
Ringhaver Student Center:
Typewriter Poets, Book Chats, and Writer Panels, Haiku Contest Presentation
FESTIVAL INFO: https://linktr.ee/stapoetfest
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By Georgia Rae Taylor –
W‘Graet’
‘Graet’
Things
Things St. Augustine standouts
hen I tell people about Spinster Abbott’s, I refer to it as a compound, because if you pay them a visit you’ll find so much more than a bodega-taproom. You can enjoy a vintage clothing store (Snakebird Vintage), a Hawaiian food truck (Hotbox), an apartment-turned-vintage-homegoods-store (Mumu Vintage), and an Air BnB - all on the same property! Don’t even get me started on the myriad of events Spinster Abbott’s hosts… from book swaps to writing letters to our state reps for political and environmental change to fashion shows to craft nights to a film photography club to pop-up markets to Sing Out Loud showcases to silent discos to bingo/ trivia to karaoke: there is certainly something for everyone! The community that Spinster Abbott’s has created and continues to nurture is my favorite thing about this establishment. It’s something St. Augustine desperately needs more of. It has a comforting, welcoming, and homey feel about it.
The owners, Liz & Sam Snyder, aren’t real estate developers or business moguls, they are simply a couple with a dream who risked it all to create something special. Originally Florida natives, they were living in Alaska at the time when they decided to finally take action on all their fantasies. They were both working in community-centric positions at the time. Liz was even a legislator for the State House of Representatives in Alaska and helped pass 5 bipartisan bills to improve healthcare.
Needless to say, they sprinkle their fairy dust everywhere they go by truly caring about their communities and actively creating change. On a particularly draining day at work, Sam was browsing Zillow (as many of us do when our minds are elsewhere), and he came across the listing for the property that would soon become Spinster Abbott’s. They had talked about this idea many times, but a property this perfect had yet to materialize. They wanted more than a bar, they wanted a bodega and maybe a bed and breakfast with a coffee shop too and space for music, so a unique and accommodating property was essential. He sent the listing to Liz and she said almost overnight she created a business plan, gathered some friends as investors as well as threw in their savings, and started their small business loan application.
This was it.
They tied up all their loose ends in Alaska, packed up their blue VW Eurovan with their kids and set out on the long road to Florida and the creation of their business. The property they bought in 2022 was not necessarily in usable condition. It had no running water. They had to redo plumbing, electrical, and put a new roof on. They had to add all their quirky touches in a vintage Florida flair. They had to come up with the perfect name, which came to them after learning about the history of the area.
In the 1860s, a young woman named Lucy Abbott moved to St. Augustine from South Carolina and did many things women during that time didn’t – she owned property, she was a business woman, she never married, and she never had kids.
Spinster Abbott’s lies within 33 acres known as the Abbott Tract, named that because many properties were owned by Lucy and buildings built under her direction.
The name is a subtle historical nod and homage to this remarkable woman who left her mark on St. Augustine, much like the Snyder’s are certain to do with their fantastic addition to the Abbott Tract.
