Amelia Islander - February 2022 by Sweetpea Media, Inc

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The return of the Union Army to Fort Clinch set the stage for Fernandina to witness an important event in African American history: the enlistment of Black soldiers into the Union Army.

ISLANDER Philip Kelly Deana Basile Kelly Publishers and Editors Tom Barrett Art Director Mark O’Day Sales Manager

”

In February, our nation celebrates Black History Month to honor the achievements and culture of African Americans. The first Black History Month originated at Kent State University with the Black United Students in 1969, and soon after, recognition extended to other educational institutions, centers of Black culture, and community groups around the country. In 1976, during the celebration of the Bicentennial, President Gerald Ford officially recognized the celebration of Black History Month, urging Americans to “honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” On Amelia Island, we have a reminder of an important chapter in Black American history at Fort Clinch State Park. Fort Clinch was occupied by Confederate troops when the Union garrison was withdrawn in 1861, but it was re-occupied by Union troops when the Confederate Army moved their forces elsewhere the following year. The return of the Union Army to Fort Clinch set the stage for Fernandina to witness an important development in African American history: the enlistment of Black soldiers into the Union Army. In our cover story, Karen Miller and local historian Frank Olefdt take a look at the history and contributions of what was known at the time as the United States Colored Troops, men who fought bravely in important battles of the Civil War and who were stationed here in Fernandina. The Militia Act of 1862 opened the door for former slaves to become Union soldiers. After the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, the United States Colored Troops (USCT) were established with free and formerly enslaved men of color, reaching a total of 186,097 troops by the end of the war. The soldiers of the First South Carolina Volunteers were the first USCT troops to serve on Amelia Island. As Frank Ofeldt notes, the presence of the African American soldiers in Fernandina also gave great hope to the African American population here, who saw the “future of the African American race in America.” It is with great pleasure that we share the story of the United States Colored Troops at Fort Clinch this month, as we honor the vital and irreplaceable contributions of African Americans in our nation’s history. In addition, we take a look at the Macedonia AME Church in downtown Fernandina Beach, a vibrant, multi-racial community with a long history; preview the upcoming Amelia Island Book Festival, which has had to cancel some events due to Covid but is keeping its signature Authors In Schools program; present a “Fernandina Faces” on Ron Miller, who operates a company that give tours of American Beach, Kingsley Plantation, and Old Town; share an “Island Entertaining” on preparing some delicious soul food; and much more. See you around the island!

Contributing Writers Karen Miller, Julie Simmons, Dickie Anderson, Mandy Haynes, Teri Sopp, Betty Morrell, Lois Winkler Contributing Photographers William Raser, Sherry Carter, Stephan Leimberg, Pam Bell, Christy LeLait, Lilly Sheetz

C O N TA C T U S Sweetpea Media, Inc. P.O. Box 16624 Fernandina Beach, Fl 32035 904-277-8012 islander@ameliaislander.com www.ameliaislander.com

Amelia Islander Magazine is published monthly. All editorial contents including maps and photographs are Copyrighted 2021 Sweetpea Media, Inc. Reproduction of any material contained herein in any manner, in whole or in part, is prohibited without the express written consent of the publisher. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other artwork cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. No responsibility is assumed for unsolicited materials. The cover and the magazine’s contents are fully protected and may not be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The Amelia Islander is distributed free of charge on and around Amelia Island. Back issues may be purchased from the publisher for $2.00 each plus postage.

4 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

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features

FEBRUARY 2022 11 Cover Story FORT CLINCH’S UNITED STATES COLORED TROOPS

With the Militia Act of 1862, the Union Army enlisted African American freedmen and escaped slaves as soldiers and they played an important role in the American Civil War, including the First South Carolina Volunteers at Fort Clinch.

33 A Community with a Purpose

45 For the Love of Reading

One of the oldest churches on Amelia Island, the Macedonia AME Church in Fernandina Beach is a vibrant, multi-racial community dedicated to serving those in need.

Despite canceling events due to Covid this year, the Amelia Island Book Festival will continue with its signature Authors In Schools program and other special events.

53 Fernandina Faces

76 Island Entertaining

A retired conductor for CSX, Ron Miller grew up visiting American Beach, and today his company offers tours of American Beach, Kingsley Plantation, and Old Town.

In honor of Black History Month in February, Karen Miller offers a culinary journey into soul food, with recipes for classics like Milk Baked Ham and Tea Cakes.

Amelia

ISLANDER FEBRUARY 2022 • VOLUME 35 • NUMBER 2

5 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

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FEBRUARY 2022

inside 22

ABOUT THE COVER

Everything Amelia The people, events, and history that make Amelia a special place

Galleries & Antiques Amelia’s art galleries & antique stores

In the Neighborhood Profiles of area businesses and organizations

Beach Combing Great shopping on Amelia Island

Maps of the Island and downtown, with telephone numbers

Tide Table Tides at the Amelia River

Around Town What’s happenng around Amelia Island

Snapshots Islanders out and about

In the Garden With the Pantone Color Institute’s choice of Very Peri for this year, add that striking shade to your garden with LA Dreaming Hydrangea and Bellini Grape Lagerstroemia.

Photos courtesy of Library of Congress

Island Home After helping so many achieve their dream home, Heather and Ben Hall, owners of Hall’s Quality Painting, teamed with Lola Interiors to create the perfect home for them.

Eating Scene With a lively atmosphere, spacious bar, and comfortable booths, Lagniappe serves up mouthwatering Southern cuisine with an unmistakable taste of New Orleans.

Open House Premium real estate offerings on and around Amelia Island

Amelia

ISLANDER FEBRUARY 2022 • VOLUME 35 • NUMBER 2

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First South Carolina Soldiers

First South Carolina Volunteers, taken at the former J. J. Smith Plantation in Beaufort, South Carolina

FORT CLINCH’S

United States Colored Troops With the Militia Act of 1862, the Union Army enlisted African American freedmen and escaped slaves as soldiers and they played an important role in the American Civil War. BY KAREN MILLER AND FRANK OFELDT, III

military skills, got their start on May 7, hen the U.S. Congress passed the 1862. Under the command of Colonel Confiscation Act of 1862, it freed Thomas Wentworth Higginson, a slaves whose owners were in rebellion prominent Massachusetts abolitionist, against the United States. In the same the First South Carolina, like all black year, the Militia Act of 1862 empowered regiments during the war, were led by President Lincoln to use former slaves in white officers. any capacity in the Union Army. The African American soldiers of the “During the war, the army actively First South Carolina were the first United recruited men of color,” says Frank States Colored Troops (USCT) to serve Olefdt, local historian and Fort Clinch on Amelia Island. Colonel Higginson State Park’s Park Service Specialist. would go on later to write a book about “Although men of color served in the his experience leading the First South War for American Independence and the Carolina called Army Life in a Black War of 1812, the organization of African Regiment. “We, their officers, did not go American regiments for the Federal army Thomas Wentworth Higginson there to teach lessons, but to receive them,” was truly birthed during the Civil War. Higginson wrote. “There were more than a hundred men in the The United States Navy, however, had allowed free men of ranks who had voluntarily met more dangers in their escape color to serve long before the Civil War, allowing escaped from slavery than any of my young captains had incurred in all slaves to serve in the Navy. The Navy was the first branch of their lives.” the military to be integrated.” Higginson, a Unitarian minister, did not countenance the FIRST SOUTH CAROLINA VOLUNTEERS powerful racial prejudices that disfigured many of his peers in ON AMELIA ISLAND that period. Later, following the war, Higginson devoted much The First South Carolina Volunteers, an assemblage of a of the rest of his life to fighting for the rights of freed people, small group of ex-slaves who were organized and trained in women, and other disfranchised peoples. 11 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

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H Harriet Tubman on Amelia Island During the Civil War D

USTC Recruiting Posters

The First South Carolina’s successful military operations led the way for additional African American units to be posted along the South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida coasts. As early as November 1862, black companies conducted raids against salt works and saw mills along both sides of the coastal border between Georgia and Florida. The black soldiers in the raids consisted of African American men from coastal areas in those states who had either escaped slavery by running away or by Federal occupation of their masters’ lands. “After arriving at Fort Clinch and Fernandina by ship, many of the troops did not disembark,” says Ofeldt. “Those who did were ‘on display,’ and the conduct they observed was that of surprise and excitement from the white troops of Fort Clinch and the Port of Fernandina. For the African American population living in Fernandina at the time, it was moving for former slaves to observe this new regiment of African American soldiers; it gave them hope

arriet Tubman is mostly known to Americans for leading hundreds of slaves to freedom on the Underground Railroad, but she also played a crucial and pioneering role in the Civil War. Although not formally a USCT soldier, Tubman played an important part in the war effort in Florida and Georgia. In addition to being the first woman in U.S. history to lead a military expedition, Tubman, whom the abolitionist John Brown called “General Tubman,” was a Union Army spy and recruiter. Union spies like Tubman ventured into Confederate territory, gathering information from slaves about Confederate plans. For instance, slaves would tell spies where Confederate troops had dropped barrels filled with gunpowder into rivers to attack Union boats. “We don’t know for sure, but we believe that Harriet Tubman was on Amelia Island on two occasions,” states Ofeldt. “It was very hush-hush because she was a spy with a military pass that allowed her to travel freely up and down the coasts of Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. It’s surmised that as a nurse she also treated men of the USCT and spent some time at the Merrick orphanage in Fernandina.” The Merrick orphanage was started by Chloe Merrick, a teacher from Syracuse, New York, who traveled to Amelia Island to educate 55 of the children of slaves who had been liberated by the union army. She was also one of the first teachers to work with the Freedmen’s Bureau, a federal agency that was established to protect and assist newly-emancipated African Americans. “Something that a lot of people are unaware of is that Harriett Tubman the official Army census of 1864 recorded 361 white and 892 colored civilians living in Fernandina and its vicinity,” says Ofeldt. “Merrick claimed that she counted over 1,200 African Americans living here at that time. Both the U.S. Colored Troops and African American civilians play an enormous part of Fernandina Beach’s rich history and culture, both then, and now.”

12 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

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United States Colored Troops Band

Sgt. Major Christian Fleetwood, American Civil War Medal of Honor recipient

Article snippet from H arpers Weekly

USCT soldier guarding a 12-power Napoleon in City Point, Virginia.

for the future of the African American race in America. After all, if a former slave could become an American soldier, surely a race of people could be free.”

UNITED STATES COLORED TROOPS ESTABLISHED IN 1863 The Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863 allowed for further recruitment efforts of both free and formerly enslaved men of color. And just five months later, the War Department declared the African American soldiers as “United States Colored Troops.” From 1863 to 1865, the total number of enlisted African American soldiers was 186,097, making up 10 per cent of the federal army. “Of all the USCT of the Civil War, 33,380 died in service,” states Ofeldt. “And for going above and beyond the call of duty, sixteen African American soldiers were awarded the nation’s highest award: The Medal of Honor. It was a true testament to the troops’ dedication, duty, and service.” 14 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

Black troops continued to play an important role in Union operations in Florida throughout the war. In September 1864, they made up part of the force that attacked Marianna, Florida, and on March 6, 1865, black soldiers formed the mass of the Union troops that engaged the Confederates south of Tallahassee at Natural Bridge. The Union lost the battle and was denied the opportunity to capture Tallahassee during the war. A little over two months later, however, black troops marched into Florida’s capital as part of the Union occupying force that received the formal surrender of Confederate Florida on May 20, 1865. Sadly, African American soldiers had to prove their determination throughout the war, which included their physical combat, along with their suffering from racial bigotry. Members of the United States Colored Troops were paid less than white soldiers and were restricted from serving as officers, even in their own units. African Americans who were clergy or doctors could reach the ranks of officers, but not in combat positions. In many cases,

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USCT soldiers resting near the Aiken house near Aiken’s Landing, Virginia. Engraving of what ap pears to be USCT sol diers near the Florida Hou se Inn.

Jefferson Harris, Civil War 35th Colored Infantry. Enlisted 1863 in North Carolina. Became a nurse in Jacksonville, and later settled in Fernandina as a farmer.

Jonas Miller ,Civil War 21st Colored Infantry. Born in Camden County Ga, he became a sawyer after the war.

black troops were used only for supply and guard details or manual labor. African American soldiers often faced additional dangers in the field, especially after the Confederate Congress issued a statement that any black man captured fighting against the South would be subject to immediate execution for servile insurrection, as would their white officers. In his book, Fort Clinch, Fernandina and the Civil War, Ofeldt writes about a little-known (or not widely discussed) event that took place at Fort Clinch on December 1, 1865: the execution of six soldiers from the Third USCT just outside the west wall of the fort. “On October 29, 1865, a soldier of the Third was found guilty of stealing food from the regiment’s mess while they were in Jacksonville,” writes Ofeldt. “He was ordered to be punished by the officer of the day, Lieutenant Greybill. The punishment was to tie the soldier up by his thumbs in the parade field, where are the soldiers of the regiment could witness the punishment. A group of soldiers demanded their comrade be cut down. As they approached, Greybill drew his pistol and fired into the group, hitting Joseph 16 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

Green. The soldiers retreated, took up their rifles, and returned. “Pandemonium ensued with the exchange of shots and shouts to shoot the officers. More soldiers became involved, trying to subdue what had now become a mutiny. As mutiny is a punishable offense, 15 soldiers were charged with the violation of Article 22 of the Articles of War. The six soldiers who were to be executed were transferred to Fort Clinch for their punishment. Their names were Thomas Howard, David Craig, James Allen, Joseph Nathaniel, Joseph Green, and Jacob Plowden. The other members of the mutiny were sentenced to prison.”

UNITED STATES COLORED TROOPS AT FORT CLINCH The United States Colored Troops fought in every major military campaign and battle the Union Army was involved in during the last two years of the Civil War. These included three of the most costly battles of the entire war: the Battle of Nashville and the Battle of Chickamauga, both in Tennessee, and the Battle of Spotsylvania Courthouse in Virginia.

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Left: USCT soldiers in Virginia Below: Lithograph of the Battle of Olustee

Sgt. Samuel Smith of the 119th USCT with his wife and daughters.

USCT soldiers at Dutch Gap, Virginia

“The 8th USCT infantry saw combat at the Battle of Olustee in Florida on February 20, 1864,” says Ofeldt. “There it suffered the loss of its commander, Colonel Charles Fribly, along with 310 casualties. Following the battle, the unit returned to Jacksonville and remained there with limited operations in Duval and Nassau Counties.” The 34th USCT was the last of the African American units to serve at Fort Clinch and in Fernandina until the Spanish American War of 1898. “The African American units who served here at Fort Clinch consisted of the First South Carolina, the Third USCT, Fourth USCT, Eighth USCT, Twenty-First USCT, and the Thirty-Fourth USCT,” states Ofeldt. “In addition, the 7th, 35th, and 102nd USCT were assigned to Fernandina for an extremely short period of time and only as a detachment or company. 18 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

AN INTEGRAL ROLE IN WINNING THE CIVIL WAR “African American soldiers played a significant role in helping bring an end to the Civil War. Both free African Americans who were already living in Northern states and former slaves from the Southern and border states answered the call to defend and preserve the Union. These men made up the regiments of the USCT, and today, we should honor and remember their sacrifices and service to our nation.” In the fall of 1865, several months after the Civil War ended, the USCT was disbanded, as were the vast majority of troops who fought in the war. President Lincoln himself was quoted as saying, “Without the military help of the black freedmen, the war against the South could not have been won.”

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Come Stay at the Beach

• Right Across from the Beach • Hot & Healthy Breakfast • Private Pool • Conveniently Located near Shopping and Dining 1997 South Fletcher Ave. Amelia Island, FL 32034 For Reservations, phone:

(904) 206-5600 Toll Free (877) 263-5428 RESERVATIONS ONLINE at www.AmeliaHotel.com

For more information, contact: Maria Vision USA www.mariavision.us

(239) 842-3325 DirecTV: 262 or 89 Roku TV Dish Network: 276 or 87

Need someone to talk to, pray with, or just listen? Feel free to call our prayer line.

We are here for you!

Accounting, Small Business Services and Tax Preparation Pierre Laporte, CPA

Lindsay Corigliano, CPA

(904) 261-7803 • info@coursonstam.com 2398 Sadler Road, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

21 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

everything Amelia P E OP LE ,

P LA CE S,

CAROLINE BLOCHLINGER

B Y

JUL I E

HI STO RY

M O R E

S I M M ON S

SHARING HOPE & REACHING PEOPLE FOOD MINISTRY IN FERNANDINA BEACH

If you and your sweetheart are looking for an entertaining way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, the Les DeMerle Big Band Bash Benefit Gala is for you! In its tenth year, this event promises great food, extraordinary entertainment, and of course, a swinging time on the dance floor. The headliner, Les DeMerle, a world-renowned drummer and bandleader, is founder and artistic director of the Amelia Island Jazz Festival. His talents, paired with Bonnie Eisele’s vocals, results in a high-energy act with electric visual impact and dynamic arrangements. This February 14, you can look forward to the duo welcoming special guests to join them on stage to perform the Big Band Classics of Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and a special tribute to Harry James. The Courtyard Amelia Island by Marriot is proud to host the gala and partner with the team to ensure a safe and socially distanced event. Prior to the show, guests are invited from 6:30 to 7 p.m. to meet and greet the musicians ahead of the 7 to 10 p.m. dinner and dance. The gala is a fundraiser supporting the Jazz Festival’s scholarship program, and it includes both silent and live auctions featuring amazing items. To learn more and purchase tickets, visit ameliaislanadjazzfestival.com.

COURTESY SHRP

FERNANDINA BEACH CHRISTIAN ACADEMY PRESENTS “NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM” Imagine the chance to meet Babe Ruth, Steve Irwin, Julia Child, Simone Biles, Henry Ford, or Molly Pitcher face-to-face. These are a few of my favorite encounters at the annual Fernandina Beach Christian Academy “Night at the Museum,” coming again on Friday, February 11 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The school corridors will transform into an exhibit of over 70 figures who are poised to share their stories. Each of the third- through fifth-grade students selected a “difference-maker” either from history or contemporary times, whom they have researched and are ready to bring to life when visitors drop a coin – or a dollar – into their buckets. “Not only is this an important fundraiser to help fund resources to enrich our curriculum, but it’s also one of our favorite events each year,” says Principal Kaysley Thornton. “Our students learn about the potential they have, the impact they can make on the world, and they put in countless hours working hard and building the courage to present publicly. We are so proud of each and every one of them, and we’d love for you to visit this year’s museum.” For more information, visit FBCA at 1600 S. 8th Street or call (904) 491-5664. COURTESY FBCA

LES DEMERLE VALENTINE’S DAY BIG BAND SCHOLARHIP BENEFIT GALA ON FEBRUARY 14

“God never wanted us to do life alone,” Robbin Smith, founder of Sharing Hope and Reaching People said, articulating her inspiration for the food ministry she launched in 2018. “We started with 20 sandwiches and flip flops that several volunteers distributed in the community. Fast forward just over three years, and it’s incredible that we’ve grown to providing over 7,000 meals, 700 bags of groceries, numerous snack packs, and more in 2021.” In partnership with First Baptist Church Fernandina Beach, Robbin and hosts of volunteers serve meals and groceries to-go every Wednesday from 4:30 – 6 p.m. and the second Saturday of each month from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Robbin’s inspiration for this ministry is to partner with those in need, but she also needs folks to partner with her to keep this important work alive. “We invite all to join us to serve meals, and if you feel led to donate, we always need cereal, spaghetti, pasta sauce, or monetary donations to support the pantry. Additionally, we need delivery drivers and some tech-savvy friends to help with operations.” To fill a need or meet a need, simply text or call Robbin at (904) 868-8615, visit Facebook @sharinghopeandreachingpeople, or make donations at 1600 S. 8th Street.

22 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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23 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

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GALLERIES

ANTIQUES AND MORE

a n t& iques

TREASURES, INC 329 South 8th Street • (904) 548-6080 ART ON CENTRE 503 Centre Street • 624-7255

2ND STORY GALLERY & STUDIOS BLUE DOOR ARTISTS 205 1⁄2 Centre Street • 556-7783 CASEY MATTHEWS FINE ART

PHOTO BY MARIAH LOVIN

813 South 8th Street • 556-1119 D’AGNESE CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY 205 1/2 Centre Street • 261-6044 or 556-2014 ISLAND ART ASSOCIATION COOPERATIVE GALLERY

am Ayres moved to Amelia Island eight years ago to escape the Northeast’s cold and snow. A nature lover with a degree in environmental science, Pam feels that her passion for photography and art comes from her grandfather. “My grandfather was an accomplished artist and photographer,” says Pam. “I got a lot of my inspiration from him.” But Pam considered herself a hobby photographer, until one day when she was working as a volunteer at Plantation Artists Guild and Gallery. “I received some flattering remarks about my photos and realized that I had an instinctive aptitude for photography.” Combining her M.B.A. business background with her love of art, Pam opened her own gallery, 2nd Story Gallery & Studios, located above Villa Villekulla Toy Store at 5 South 2nd Street, in late 2017. The gallery features her photography, marbled paper, and decoupage shells, along with sixteen other local talented artists, including Ned Flemming, Lois Grunder, Andrea Mateer, Ron Chabot, Ana Companion, Craig Impink, Lorraine Kilmer, Rebecca McDannold, Dickie Anderson, Jane Reese, Alan Robertson, Frances Rodgers, Beth Smith, Wendy Wessels, Patti Saunderson, and Figment

Jewelry. Yulee High School interns Mac Bloodworth, Kara Montooth, and Lane Press are photographers and college intern Storm Rowland works in acrylic. Oils, watercolors, acrylic, photography, mixed media, encaustic, marbled paper, jewelry, and decoupage shells, as well as prints and notecards, are all available at 2nd Story Gallery & Studios. “I have so much respect for these talented individuals and the many genres of art that are represented,” says Pam. “Our artists are hard at work creating new pieces every day.” 2nd Story hours are Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. The gallery also participates in Second Saturday Artrageous Artwalk and Fernandina Beach Main Street “Sip and Shop” events. “Our customers are welcome to video shop, or shop online, call us to make arrangements for a private tour of the gallery, or request free local delivery,” says Pam. “We’re very flexible!” The gallery also offers complimentary logo wine cups with every $50 purchase. For more information, call (904) 277-6676 or visit their website at www.2ndstorygallerystudios.com.

24 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

18 North 2nd Street • 261-7020 ISLAND VINTAGE MARKET 2136 Sadler Road • 310-3863 JW FRAME GALLERY 1875-B South 14th Street • 310-6610 MAURER FINE ART AT EIGHT FLAGS ANTIQUE MART 602 Centre St • 261-8276 MEAD’S FRAMERY & TROPHY Corner of A1A & Hwy 17 • 225-2195 PLANTATION ARTISTS’ GUILD & GALLERY 94 Amelia Village Circle • 432-1750 THE PLANTATION SHOP 4828 First Coast Hwy • 261-2030 TRAILER PARK COLLECTIBLES 702 Centre Street • 491-4461

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PHILLIP ANTHONY DONNA ASQUITH RICHARD CURRIER MARIAN HOWARD CLAIRE JANE KENDRICK MELISSA MASON NANCY REYNER SUZY SCARBOROUGH LISA SCHUSTER BONNIE SHANAS PAUL TAMANIAN CAT TESLA BEAU WILD

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[ ] blue door artists

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Martha SchefÅer “Sandpipers” Acrylic on canvas

Monday - Friday 10am-5pm • Closed Saturday & Sunday 1875-B S. 14th St • 904-310-6610 • jwframegallery.com

25 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

HWY 17

5 South 2nd Street, 2nd Floor Fernandina Beach 2ndstorygallerystudios.com (904) 277-6676

IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD with Mandy Haynes

Brenda Cummings has been styling clients for over thirty years. “I opened my business, Amelia Hair Therapy, in 2018, but I expanded into Amelia Hair and Therapy Spa in October last year when I had the opportunity to purchase suites 101 H and I at The Village Center at Gateway to Amelia,” says Brenda. Originally from Independence, Kansas, Brenda moved to the area in 1994. Like so many others who find themselves here, Brenda fell in love with the beauty of the island. “The best part about Amelia Island is the ocean. It’s so relaxing and beautiful.” Her three dogs, Gigi, a chihuahua, Lala, a Boston terrier, and Lulu, a miniature dachshund, agree. Amelia Hair & Therapy Spa is the place to go when you want to treat yourself to a great mini-escape. Not only do they offer a wide arrange of hair and beauty services, but they also offer a whole-body rejuvenation with massage and red light therapy. “The most rewarding part of my job is making people feel better about themselves inside and out. I feel I’m able to accomplish that through their hair and through one of my new features that I offer at the salon. It’s called the Prism Red Light Therapy bed, which has so many benefits such as anti-aging, weight loss, joint pain, and aids in reducing inflammation.” For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Brenda at (904) 310-9282, visit www.ameliahairandtherapyspa. com, or stop by 961687 Gateway Blvd., Suite 101 H & I, in Gateway to Amelia.

Amelia Hair and Therapy Spa

PHOTO BY LILLY SHEETZ

Drew Tignanelli

PHOTO BY LILLY SHEETZ

Financial Consulate

rew Tignanelli, owner of Financial Consulate, has lived most of his life in Baltimore and Annapolis, Maryland. “Being a Personal Wealth and Tax Advisor, I’ve often recommended clients move to Florida, so I finally took my own advice. Amelia Island is the perfect place for my wife, who loves ocean towns. We love a change of temperature, and everyone in the community is gracious, kind, and welcoming,” says Drew. “My main office, with twenty-three employees, is still in Hunt Valley, Maryland, while I build an Amelia Island office.” Financial Consulate believes you deserve a solid financial plan that supports your values and goals. “The firm I built is not about selling products to people, but instead is passionate about comprehensive advice with a focus on Income Tax and Estate Tax Planning. I believe the tax laws of our country have become burdensome and unfair to the majority of Americans, and I greatly enjoy helping people reduce their tax burdens. The tax laws work only for those who either pay no tax or the ultra-wealthy. Those in the middle end up carrying the load of taxation. “We are fee-only, we don’t offer commission products, we are independent rather than part of brokerage or insurance company, we’re highly-educated and credentialled, and we always operate as fiduciaries for our clients. We differentiate ourselves with our trademark Financial Physical®, which we do to demonstrate what a professional Financial Advisor should do for their clients.” For more information, visit www.financialconsulate.com to see how they can help you.

Cassey Cerna, Sherry Shuman, Brenda Cummings, and Correy Holowell

26 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

An Island Tradition for 42 Years! (904) 261-2030 Find us online @theplantationshop

Cucina South

A Neighborhood Italian Bistro

DINNER ONLY Tue thru Sun 5:30PM to 9:00PM Indoor and alfresco dining Salads | Fresh Seafood Braised Meats | Pasta 904.432.7920 4828 First Coast Highway Palmetto Walk Shopping Village

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Unique Antique Smalls Home Accessories & Gifts Casual & Coastal Furnishings

PALMETTO WALK

English and French Antiques

SHOPPING VILLAGE

New Antique Shipment Has Arrived !

The Shops at Omni Amelia Island feature a wide selection of one-of-a-kind boutiques, restaurants and souvenir stores. This quaint, pedestrian and pet-friendly shopping village offers something for everyone. 6800 FIRST COAST HIGHWAY | AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 | 904-261-6161 | OMNIAMELIAISLAND.COM

AMELIA’S SIGNATURE SHOP Men’s, ladies’ and kid’s apparel, gifts and souvenirs.

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CHICO’S A specialty retailer of women’s apparel and accessories from exclusive, private label designs.

HARRISON’S MERCANTILE Fashion trends, casual wear and accessories for men and women featuring Peter Millar, Tommy Bahama, Vineyard Vines, Southern Tide, Tribal, Lula Soul and Adore.

MARCHÉ BURETTE Coffee shop, food market & deli offering breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch. Shop for wine, spirits, gourmet cookware, wine accessories and gifts.

NATURAL SLICE A family-friendly, surf inspired pizza joint and retail shop serving fresh ingredients on hand-tossed dough.

NATURE CENTER 0CVWTG KVGOU HTQO DKTF HGGFGTU DKPQEWNCTU ȧGNF IWKFGU CPF OQTG VQ HWNȧNN [QWT GZRNQTKPI PGGFU $G UWTG VQ UC[ JK VQ VJG local residents that call the Nature Center home and don’t forget to ask about the variety of tours we offer.

PLANTATION ARTISTS’ GUILD & GALLERY Gallery of local artists’ work featuring workshops, demonstrations and lectures.

SPA & SALON The ultimate indulgence for your body, mind and spirit. Offers an array of aromatherapy candles, oils, lotions and jewelry.

THE QUEEN BEE Jewelry, handbags, ladies’ apparel and fashion accessories featuring Susan Shaw, Fornash, Oia Jules and Toune & Reese.

BEACH COMBING Sensational Scarf Refresh your wardrobe for spring with some eye-catching items, like this stunning Hermes scarf ($250) and these beautiful sterling silver peridot studs from David Yurman. Available at Fifi’s Fine Resale Apparel, The Shops at Amelia Market (near Harris Teeter), 4802 First Coast Highway. (904) 310-3773.

Magnificent Mugs In addition to well-curated vintage, retro, and eclectic gifts, don’t miss these terrific mugs, a collaboration between Corkcicle and Rifle Paper Co. featuring a gorgeous new hydrangea pattern. Beverages stay cold or hot for hours! Styles include stemless cup, tumbler, or canteen. Starting at $31. Available at Hudson & Perry, 319 Centre Street. (904) 844-2442.

Beautiful Bubble Enjoy spring sweetness with this darling Dotted Swiss Lisette Tulip Bubble from The Proper Peony ($82) and adorable coordinating seersucker Beaufort Bonnet from The Beaufort Bonnet Company. Bubble in sizes 3 to 24 months; bonnet in XS to L. Spring apparel for girls and boys! Available at Monkey Barrel of Amelia, 4802 First Coast Hwy. (904) 310-9463.

Dazzling Diamonds You’ll look gorgeous in this 14K Yellow Gold Paperclip Necklace with 26 round diamonds at 0.25 carats total diamond weight (SI2/H) by Ashi ($1,375), or these striking 14K White & Yellow Gold Drop Earrings with diamonds at 0.36 carats total diamond weight (SI1-G-H) by Gabriel ($2,200). Available at Robison Jewelry, 217 Centre Street. (904) 261-3635.

29 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

INCLUDED WALKING/DRIVING TOUR

Great

A HOMES & CHURCHES Island Architectural Treasures of Amelia

RSON D I C K I E A N D EBY

PHOTOG RAPHY CARTER JAN JOHANN ES & SHERRY

This highly treasured book on the architectural history of Fernandina—now in its third printing— now features 9 historic churches located in and around Downtown Fernandina Beach, highlighting when each church was built, architectural details, and its signiﬁgance in the shaping of Fernandina’s colorful past. In additon to the homes of past editions, the included walking/driving tour map shows where each church is located.

Find out why 904.206.0419 Fernandina Beach Realty

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HOR$E $EN$E = HOU$E CENT$

$17.95 Published by Sweetpea Media and Amelia Islander Magazine

Available at Amelia Island book stores and the Amelia Island Museum of History For more information, contact Dickie Anderson at dickie.anderson@gmail.com.

Thomas D. Foy Jr., Owner 961687 Gateway Blvd., Ste. 201F Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 904-310-6886 • www.lRIS-FINANCIAL.com <PWUI[ , .Wa 2Z Q[ I ZMOQ[\MZML ZMXZM[MV\I\Q^M WN IVL W‫ٺ‬MZ[ [MK]ZQ\QM[ IVL IL^Q[WZa [MZ^QKM[ \PZW]OP 4QVKWTV .QVIVKQIT ;MK]ZQ\QM[ 4.; UMUJMZ ;18+ 1:1; .QVIVKQIT ;MZ^QKM[ Q[ VW\ IV I‫ٻ‬TQI\M WN 4QVKWTV .QVIVKQIT ;MK]ZQ\QM[

4.;

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live with less • love what you have reuse - repurpose - renew - relax 30 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Residential & Commercial Real Estate Transactions

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Serving Clients in Fernandina Beach/Yulee 31 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

buying or selling a home? Pam Troxel is always WORKING FOR YOU! Dedication plus a proven sales success rate and local market knowledge equals experience you can trust. If you or someone you know is considering selling, NOW IS THE TIME. Call me and let me show you what your home is worth!

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It’s cashmere season & we’ve got you covered!

A moment

to reset the

heart.

Cashmere Throws, Wraps, and Sweaters in stock. April 22-24, 2022 Celebrating our ever-changing interior landscapes and our relationship to the Earth, metanoia is the journey of changing one’s mind, heart, self or way of life. Participants in this retreat will ﬁnd community, awareness, conversation, the ocean, amazing cuisine, laughter, and inspiration for their work.

1853 S. 8th Street, Suite B | Fernandina Beach, Florida (904) 915-4628 (GOAT) | capradimare.com 32 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

For more information on how to apply for this retreat, visit: facebook.com/MetanoiaRetreat metanoiaretreat@gmail.com www.AmeliaIslander.com

A Community with a Purpose

One of the oldest churches on Amelia Island, the Macedonia AME Church in Fernandina Beach is a vibrant, multi-racial community dedicated to serving those in need. BY JULIE SIMMONS • PHOTO BY SHERRY CARTER

he corner of Beech and South 9th streets is the humble home of Fernandina Beach’s Macedonia AME Church. You’ve probably driven by and perhaps noticed the bold stained-glass windows or large white bell tower, but I’ll bet you didn’t know that this church is celebrating its sesquicentennial anniversary – or 150 years – in 2022! First, let’s review a bit of history on the AME Church itself. AME stands for African Methodist Episcopal, and the congregation was begun in Philadelphia in 1787 as the first, independent Protestant denomination founded by African Americans. The momentum for the movement came when black members of St. George’s Methodist Episcopal Church were literally pulled off their knees while praying. In an effort to escape discrimination and with a vision of free worship, Richard Allen and Absalom Jones founded the AME denomination – the first denomination in the U.S. to be founded for liberty rather than theological distinction.

The AME Church was introduced to Fernandina Beach when Samuel Irving, an official with the AME Church in Philadelphia, arrived in town in 1870 and began prayer meetings for Blacks. In 1872, Irving formed and organized the Macedonia AME Church and laid a cornerstone at the corner of Beech and 7th streets. The community of believers became a significant center in the predominantly African American neighborhood, and the church continued to grow, constructing its current building in 1899, which includes the cornerstone of the 1872 structure. Today, it stands as one of the oldest churches on Amelia Island. On a recent cold January Sunday, I was blessed to worship with the Macedonia congregation, and they welcomed my family with open arms. The beauty of the AME Church is that they welcome and encourage members of all ethnicities, and Macedonia is no exception. It is such a treasure to see continued on the next page

33 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Locally owned and operated boutique law ǻrm established & trusted in the community. Andrea has been closing residential & commercial transactions in Nassau County since 1995. + + + + +

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34 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

worshipers of all races, ages, and genders gathering in this historic building under the pastorship of Reverend Gary Slaughter, who leads the service with respect, honoring the Word of God and offering insight and light-hearted moments throughout the service. In addition to Sunday mornings, the Macedonia congregation is busy being the hands and feet of God to the community by assisting the Coalition for the Homeless of Nassau County and the Racial Equality Coalition, as well as partnering with $1000 Startup Small Business Program and Fairs. $1000 Start-up is a non-profit training and grant program, teaching people how to start, develop, and sell products and services. The Church also sponsors many Black History Month programs and events. This year it is presenting “Soul of the Long Gray Line – A Telling of Untold Stories of the Black Cadets of West Point” by Mike Kegler, a local historian and West Point graduate, on Saturday, February 19 at 2 p.m. and Wednesday, February 23 at 6 p.m. To celebrate its 150th anniversary, Macedonia AME Church is hard at work preserving its heritage. In fact, this month the church building will be named a historic landmark by the Fernandina Beach Historic District Council. The historical designation will allow the church to qualify for grants and funding from the State of Florida, which will underwrite capital improvements, including a desperately needed roof repair and replacement, interior repairs, and improvements to the community room and kitchen. When you have a chance to walk on the original hardwood floors of the church, admire the intricate woodworking adorning the entire celling, and see the treasured stained glass, it’s easy to see why this piece of our town’s history needs to be preserved. The Macedonia African Methodist Episcopal Church welcomes everyone in the community to join them any Sunday at 10 a.m., to join in their special events, and if you feel led, to contribute to their restoration. To learn more, visit www. macedoniaamefb.org.

www.AmeliaIslander.com

A preferred coastal wedding destination Where sunshine, Southern charm & golf meet The Golf Club of Amelia Island wedding & event experts seamlessly turn your special day into a dream come true! Choose between the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean or our 18th fairway as your back drop while we commit to making every moment memorable from beginning to end. Contact us today for more information and to enjoy seasonal rates! Sheridan Regan Catering Sales Director sregan@golfclubofamelia.com | 904-277-0021

The Golf Club of Amelia Island offers a variety of exclusive Membership opportunities to fit your lifestyle! Golf

Tennis

Oceanfront Beach Club

Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island Amenities

Contact us for more information! Ben Getman Membership Director bgetman@golfclubofamelia.com | 904-277-8015 4700 Amelia Island Pkwy | Amelia Island, FL 32034 | www.golfclubofamelia.com | 904-277-8015

Own a Piece of History

WHAT’S HAPPENING Perfect for

Valentin e’s Day!

YOUR SOURCE FOR AUTHENTIC COIN JEWELRY

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Week !

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6 South 14th Street • Fernandina Beach

(904) 261-5741 Laser Refractive Cataract Surgery Advanced Technology Cataract Implants Blade-free Custom LASIK Medicare, Tricare, and most medical plans accepted Amelia Island & Nassau County’s most trusted eyecare since 1948 Eye Exams • Contact Lenses VSP and Eyemed accepted LARGE SELECTION OF FRAMES BY:

DR. CAPRITTA ROBERTS Ophthalmology-Cornea & External Disease Specialist

Check out our blog featuring current news and stories about all that is happening on Amelia Island and

DR. TONY STUBITS Optometrist

the surrounding areas. Local events, food, history, and more. Three new stories every week.

DR. LEAH HERRON Optometrist

www.AmeliaIslander.com DR. TYLER WILLS Optometrist

Ermengildo Zegna • Pomellato Italy • Kate Spade Hugo Boss • Canalli • Jaguar • Maui Jim

CALL FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY!

DR. KATELYN MARKS Optometrist

36 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Craft Beer & Artisan Pizza Fernandina Beach’s newest craft brewery has opened its doors. First Love Brewing is a community centric microbrewery that features 20 rotating taps all brewed on site. First Love Brewing also offers artisan pizzas made with their signature dough recipe. We are inspired by the community we live in and the people we meet. We look forward to seeing you soon. WED - FRI 4 - 9 PM • SAT 11 AM - 9 PM • SUN 11 AM - 8 PM 22 South 8th Street | Fernandina Beach

@ßrstlovebrewing

Eclectic hometown vendor market with a vintage vibe, located at 2136 Sadler Road in the Sadler Square Shopping Center in beautiful Fernandina Beach, FL. We are a retail store with local vendors including artists, crafters and collectors. We are a Dixie Belle Elite Retailer with all colors and products! 2136 Sadler Road, Fernandina Beach 904-310-3863 • islandvintagemarket.com

A Real Bakery, A Fun Boutique All Under One Woof!!

STEPHAN R. LEIMBERG

Gourmet Dog Bakery & Boutique Mon. - Fri.10am - 5:30pm • Sat.10am - 4pm Sun.12:30 - 4pm

Fine Art Images Portraits Studio by Appointment 904.491.0474

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Visit UnSeenImages.com

38 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

MAP | TIDES AT THE AMELIA RIVER | FEBRUARY 2022 DAY

LOW

HIGH

1 TUE

2:08 AM 2:51 PM 3:00 AM 3:38 PM 3:49 AM 4:23 PM 4:39 AM 5:08 PM 5:29 AM 5:53 PM 6:21 AM 6:40 PM

8:55 AM 9:08 PM 9:44 AM 9:59 PM 10:31 AM 10:48 PM 11:16 AM 11:35 PM 12:00 PM 12:21 AM 12:43 PM

2 WED 3 THU

PORT OF FERNANDINA BEACH

NORTH BEACH

AMELIA ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE

4 FRI 5 SAT 6 SUN 7 MON

MAIN BEACH

7:17 AM 7:29 PM 8 TUE 8:15 AM 8:20 PM 9 WED 9:11 AM 9:12 PM 10 THU 10:06 AM 10:05 PM 11 FRI 10:59 AM 10:57 PM

SEASIDE PARK

12 SAT 11:49 AM 11:48 PM 13 SUN 14 MON 15 TUE

FERNANDINA BEACH GOLF CLUB

16 WED 17 THU 18 FRI

PETER’S POINT

19 SAT 20 SUN

RITZ CARLTON

SUMMER BEACH

21 MON

12:36 PM 12:36 AM 1:19 PM 1:21 AM 1:59 PM 2:03 AM 2:35 PM 2:43 AM 3:11 PM 3:23 AM 3:46 PM 4:04 AM 4:23 PM 4:48 AM 5:03 PM 5:37 AM MON

22 TUE 6:32 AM 6:41 PM 23 WED 7:35 AM 7:41 PM 24 THU

AMERICAN BEACH

8:42 AM 8:47 PM 25 FRI 9:48 AM 9:53 PM 26 SAT 10:53 AM 10:59 PM

OMNI AMELIA ISLAND RESORT

27 SUN 28 MON

11:54 AM 12:03 AM 12:50 PM

Nassau Jewelry Co. Your Custom Jeweler

1:08 AM 1:27 PM 1:56 AM 2:15 PM 2:48 AM 3:07 PM 3:44 AM 4:04 PM 4:43 AM 5:01 PM 5:38 AM 5:55 PM 6:28 AM 6:44 PM 7:14 AM 7:29 PM 7:56 AM 8:12 PM 8:37 AM 8:53 PM 9:16 AM 9:33 PM 9:54 AM 10:12 PM 10:32 AM 10:53 PM 11:12 AM 11:36 PM 11:55 AM 12:23 AM 12:43 PM 1:17 AM 1:38 PM

3 SIZES AVAILABLE

SILVER or 14K GOLD

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Tours Run 6 Days a Week

2:20 AM 2:40 PM 3:33 AM 3:52 PM 4:47 AM 5:03 PM 5:55 AM 6:09 PM 6:54 AM 7:07 PM

Richly narrated historic sightseeing boat tours and wildlife cruises. Reservations recommended. Daily Nature / History Tours 2:30pm - Beach Creek Tour Friday & Saturday only 10:00am - Cumberland Island Tour

TO ST. JOHN’S RIVER FERRY

AMELIA ISLAND STATE PARK

Available for private charters & special events.

FEBRUARY WEATHER Average High 65 degrees Average Low 47 degrees Average Precipitation 3.17 inches

AmeliaRiverCruises.com

While every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained herein is accurate, Amelia Islander Magazine shall not be liable for any damages of any kind resulting from use or reliance on this chart. 39 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

904-261-9972

www.AmeliaIslander.com

AROUND TOWN 2022

FEBRUARY Celebrate Amelia Plantation Artists’ Guild & Gallery marks their reopening with a new show! Members of the Plantation Artists’ Guild & Gallery are pleased to announce the gallery’s reopening, following closure due to construction. PAGG marks the occasion with a themed reopening show entitled, Celebrate Amelia. The gallery’s artists are anxious to share their new space, and extend an invitation to the public. 94 Amelia Village Circle in the Omni Amelia Island Plantation shops. Gallery hours are Monday 11:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m., Tuesday 9 a.m. -1 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sunday 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.. For more information call (904) 432-1750, visit paggart.com, or Facebook at Plantation Artists’ Guild & Gallery.

FEBRUARY 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24 Rumba and Samba Ballroom On Amelia offers Two for Tuesday group classes on Amelia Island with Rumba at 7 p.m. followed by Samba at 8 p.m. Two for Tuesday classes are $15 for one class or $20 for both classes per person. A dance workshop is offered on Thursdays on Amelia Island from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Thursday classes are $15 per person. Ballroom On Amelia is located at 1897 Island Walkway at RAD Studios; no partner or reservation is required. For more information, contact us at (904) 624-0886, visit our website at ballroomonmelia.com or our Facebook page.

FEBRUARY 8 The Bartram Garden Club The Bartram Garden Club meets at 10:00 a.m. GFWC Woman’s Club of Fernandina Beach, 201 Jean Lafitte Blvd. The Bartram Garden Club meets September through May on the 2nd Thursday of the month. Please visit www.bartramgardenclub.org for additional information. The Bartram Garden Club, Inc. meets at the GFWC Woman’s Club of Fernandina Beach, 201 Jean Lafitte Blvd.

FEBRUARY 9 Author Event Historic Haunts Story and Song Bookstore Bistro invites you to attend their author event with paranormal investigator Jamie Pearce. 3:00 p.m. (904) 6012118. info@storyandsongbookstore.com Story & Song Bookstore Bistro 1430 Park Avenue.

FEBRUARY 11, 12, 13, 18, 19 Almost, Maine Amelia Musical Playhouse presents, Almost, Maine. A play by John Cariani, comprising nine short vignettes that explore love and loss in a

FEBRUARY

remote, mythical almost-town called Almost, Maine. Relationships end, begin, or change beyond recognition, as strangers become friends, friends become lovers, and lovers turn into strangers. Tickets $20 general $10 students. 7:30p.m. Sundays 5:00p.m. Call the box office at (904) 277-3455. For more information visit info@ameliamusicalplayhouse.com. 1955 Island Walkway.

FEBRUARY 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26 The Hallelujah Girls Amelia Community Theater presents the spirited southern comedy, The Hallelujah Girls by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope, and Jamie Wooten. A group of feisty friends launch their new and improved lives at an old church turned into a day spa. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for students in the Main Stage theater at 207 Cedar Street. The show is rated PG. Visit www.AmeliaCommunityTheatre.org or call (904) 261-6749 for tickets.

FEBRUARY 12 Artrageous Art Walk On the second Saturday of each month, participating galleries on the island and most in the downtown area host art events and open houses during the second Saturday Artrageous Artwalk. Locals and tourists alike can enjoy the various types of local art that each gallery has to offer as well as meet the artists. Fall & Winter Art Walk 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Free

FEBRUARY 13 AICMF presents The Dover Quartet Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival presents The Dover Quartet. The Dover Quartet is the Festivals quartet-in-residence, and is one of the most in-demand ensembles in the world. Concert will be held at Historic Nassau County Courthouse, 416 Centre Street at 3 p.m. Cost is $60. For tickets and more information please visit aicmf.org or call (904) 261-1779.

FEBRUARY 16 Meet your Neighbor Story and Song Bookstore Bistro invites you to meet your neighbor. Once each month on Wednesday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Happy hours prices and great conversation. info@storyandsongbookstore.com Story & Song Bookstore Bistro 1430 Park Avenue. (904) 601-2118

40 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

FEBRUARY 23 Roscoe, My Cardinal Sin Story and Song Bookstore Bistro invites you to listen as local author Chip Kirkpatrick tells of rescuing and raising a baby cardinal. 3:00 p.m. Call (904) 601-2118 for more information Story & Song Bookstore Bistro 1430 Park Avenue. info@storyandsongbookstore.com

FEBRUARY 20 An Evening of Story and Song Gypsy Jazz Internationally-renowned violinist Tim Kliphuis and guitarist Jimmy Grant recreate the gypsy jazz era of Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli. 2 p.m. Tickets $25. For more information, email info@storyandsongbookstore.com or call (904) 601-2118. Story & Song Bookstore Bistro 1430 Park Avenue.

FEBRUARY 26 Walking the Wrong Way Home Story and Song Bookstore Bistro series Live Ink Theater presents a staged reading of southern gothic short stories by local award winning author Mandy Haynes. $25 5:00 p.m. For more information, please email info@storyandsongbookstore.com or call (904) 601-2118. Story & Song Bookstore Bistro. 1430 Park Avenue.

FEBRUARY Historic Downtown Fernandina Historic Tours Pick up at 170 Ash Street Junction of Ash St and 2nd Street. Ride into the past and learn the stories of Amelia Island and the eight flags that have flown over its historically rich land. We take you on a journey from the time the Timucua Indians inhabited this area into the modern day shrimping industry. All Ages $29 per adult Discounts for Seniors, Military and Children under 15. Tours run everyday at 10:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Sunday 3:00 p.m. only. Advance booking only. Contact, Daniel Daly info@ameliaislandhistorictours.com (904) 899-2429.

MARCH 4 & 5 15th Anniversary Sale Come celebrate with us at Amelia’s Fine Jewelry and receive 15% off our entire store (some exclusions apply) for our 15thanniversary! Join us on The Amelia Concours weekend, Friday March 4 & Saturday March 5. 317 Centre Street, (904) 277-0665. For more Amelia Island events, please visit ameliaislander.com/calendar.

www.AmeliaIslander.com

JOIN US IN PROVIDING CRITICAL MEDICAL CARE IN AFRICA TO THOSE MOST IN NEED

We are providing basic medical care and early intervention in southern Nigeria that prevents minor problems from becoming life-threatening issues. As little as $15 a month can save lives! Visit SalveReginaClinicNigeria.org or email Phil.Kelly@SalveReginaClinicNigeria.org. But you, Lord, are a merciful and gracious God. ~Ps. 86:15

In travel, it’s all about who you know. Let us introduce you... We are excited to introduce our Platinum Partners for 2022:

AZAMARA, BELMOND, BENNETT & MERCADO, BIG FIVE TOURS & EXPEDITIONS, EXPLORA, MEDJET, ONE & ONLY, LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS, LUXURY GOLD, MICATO SAFARIS, NAMU, NATURAL HABITAT, REGENT SEVEN SEAS, SEABOURN, SEADREAM YACHT CLUB, SILVERSEA, & UNIWORLD Take advantage of our agency exclusive promotions while exploring the world with our Platinum Partners! Wallace Pierson Travel | 904.261.5914 | info@wallacepierson.com | wallacepierson.com

Miss an issue? Specialty men’s apparel and accessories in historic Fernandina Beach.

Visit our website for links to digital editions of past magazines.

PETER MILLAR BARBOUR BUGATCHI MACEOO MAVI TJ PHELPS SMATHERS & BRANSON FISH HIPPIE SAXX

ameliaislander.com 216 Centre Street ~ Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 @shopjjcooper 904-310-6235 ~ www.jjcooper.net 41 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

DRY EYE & MGD

Talk to your doctor today. INCLUDED WALKING/DRIVING TOUR

Great

A HOMES & CHURCHES Island Architectural Treasures of Amelia

RSON D I C K I E A N D EBY

PHOTOG RAPHY CARTER JAN JOHANN ES & SHERRY

Amelia Eye Associates now accepts

Our one-on-one approach makes Amelia Eye Our featured frames include: Tom Ford John Varvatos Prada • Dolabany Maui Jim • Guess Costa Del Mar Ray Ban • Coach Lucky • Oakley

Associates the eye and vision care providers of choice. We are dedicated to providing high-quality service in a friendly, comfortable environment.

Dr. Gerald W. Koss, II Board Certiﬁed Optometrist

$17.95 Published by Sweetpea Media and Amelia Islander Magazine

1411 S. 14th St., Suite G | Fernandina Beach (904) 321-1333 | www.ameliaeye.com

Available at Amelia Island book stores and the Amelia Island Museum of History For more information, contact Dickie Anderson at dickie.anderson@gmail.com.

Need some direction? AMELIA

LAND IS MAP & GUIDE

Amelia

ISLANDER M A G A Z I N E

Pick up the Amelia Island Map & Guide for information on great food, fun things to do, and fabulous places to rest. www.ameliaislandfloridamap.com 42 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Providing solid advice and dedicated service

New Amelia Island location coming soon! 814 Highway A1A N., Suite 100 // Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 D 904.273.1811 // edgewaterwealthmanagement.com © 2022 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC. Raymond James is a registered trademark of Raymond James Financial, Inc. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected. 22-BR37Z-0135 TA 1/22

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43 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

License#: 299993523 FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

We have more than 65 different varieties of Black, Green and Herbal Loose Leaf Teas packed with immunity building antioxidants, these teas are the perfect addition to keep you healthy! Come in and smell the Spices! We have more than 85 Custom Spice Seasonings we make in-store daily!

Vera Bradley Love you lots

POINTS LIQUOR Tito’s 1.75L $30.99

Designer Handbags D

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HANDBAGS • HATS SCARVES • JEWELRY GIFTS FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN Bring in your hotel key to receive 10% OFF any full priced item.

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Look for our in-store specials found only on Facebook. 44 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

SENIOR CITIZEN DISCOUNTS ON MONDAYS DRIVE THRU SERVICE LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

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READING Despite canceling events due to Covid this year, the Amelia Island Book Festival will continue with its signature Authors In Schools program and other special events this year. BY DICKIE ANDERSON

nce again this year, the Amelia Island Book Festival has had to adjust its schedule and cancel two February events. The traditional gala scheduled for February 18 and the Author Expo & Readers’ Extravaganza scheduled for February 19 were canceled due to Covid concerns. Lots of other events on the schedule for the remainder of the year remain in place. Now in its twentieth year, the Amelia Island Book Festival offers a variety of events and opportunities for readers of all ages. Although the Gala and Expo had to be canceled, the very heart of the festival, the Authors In Schools program, will take place Friday, February 18. The Authors in Schools program not only puts a book in the hand of every student in Nassau County, it also places authors in classrooms to engage students and encourage reading and writing. Authors include New York Times bestselling authors and award-winning authors that target younger audiences. Each year, authors are in front of 13,000 students at Nassau County public schools, five volunteer pre-kindergarten 45 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

programs, and various private schools. Through sponsors, donors, and ticket sales, the festival strives to give a book to every student. To further encourage students, the Amelia Island Book Festival sponsors Scholarship & Short Story Writing contests for all Nassau County middle and high school students to win creative writing awards, scholarships, and an opportunity to be published. This year’s contest challenges Nassau County students to write a Rudyard Kipling-style “Just So Story.” Stories will be published, with cash awards presented to the winning students. The 2022 Scholarship contest offers two $5,000 scholarships. Nassau County high school seniors who are citizens of the United States, in good academic standing, and planning to attend college or university in Fall 2022, are eligible. Students are asked to create a 1,000 – 1,200-word essay and submit it by March 1. This year’s theme is, “What continued on next page

FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

2164 Sadler Road • 904-277-2095 46 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

author or story has most inspired you and how?” Details can be found on the festival website. Starting in March, in partnership with Nassau County Public Library and the Book Loft, activities and events are scheduled to support One Book – One Community. The communitywide event promotes the reading of a particular book and encourages interaction between those who read it. This year’s book is The Shop on Royal Street by New York Times best-selling author Karen White. In her newest book, White’s character, Nola Trenholm, is hopeful for a fresh start in the Big Easy, but she must deal with ghosts from her past—as well as new ones. A ticketed event featuring the author will be held at Fernandina Beach Golf Club. Tickets are available on the festival website. Other events scheduled throughout the year include: in April, an online auction featuring the naming rights for a character in the next thriller by bestselling novelist David Baldacci, Honorary Chair of the 2022 Book Festival, among other exciting items; in July, a “Made in the South” event featuring author and sommelier Kara Joseph, author of If Wine Could Talk; in September, coinciding with International Pirate Day, a children’s event with costumes featuring Melinda Long and David Shannon, authors of How I Became a Pirate and Pirates Don’t Change Diapers; and in October, a celebrity author luncheon. Festival organizers are already looking forward to next year, when the festival will once again present their annual Gala at The Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island, the popular Author Expo with its Teen/Tween Scene, and breakout sessions with celebrity authors. Like other Amelia Island festivals, the Amelia Island Book Festival depends on the enthusiasm and support of a giving community. Setbacks create challenges, and the Amelia Island Book Festival has met the challenges, offering a wide variety of events and programs for participants of all ages. For information on festival events, visit www.ameliaislandbookfestival.org. www.AmeliaIslander.com

p fect begin ning to your happy ending!

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Pick up your copy of Amelia Island Weddings at merchants around the island, or read it online at ameliaislandweddingsmagazine.com.

åƐcåƽåŹƐ8ŇŹďåƒƐ Ě±ƒƐ FƒŷžƐ¥ŇƣŹƐaŇĻåǅũ FERNANDINA BEACH 1900 SOUTH 14TH STREET YULEE 463775 STATE ROAD 200

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All new accounts and loans subject to approval. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change at any time without notice. Certain restrictions may apply. ©2017 VyStar Credit Union. 47 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

snapShots AT THE MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY PARADE IN FERNANDINA BEACH

JENNETT WILSON AND JACKIE MCGOWEN

RON & AVIS MILLER

MARY MYERS, BARB BAPTISTA, AND JAMESHA MOMENT

SHAWN RAULS AND THOMAS COLEMAN

AT AMELIA ISLAND RESTAURANT WEEK IN FERNANDINA BEACH

RACHAEL GREEN AND PEGGY SMITH

SCOTT , SHARON, AND MARK ALTMEYER

KATHY & BILLY ATCHISON

CYNTHIA & ED FREEMAN

AT THE FOAR FROM HOME FUNDRAISING EVENT AT FIRST LOVE BREWING

STACY & DARREN HORST

CARLA KING AND BOBBY COOK

KEVIN CURLY AND STEPH VOGT

TAMERA & NIGEL ELLACOTT

AT A NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY WITH LES DEMERLE AT STORY & SONG BOOKSTORE

DOUG MATTHEWS, LES DEMERLE, BONNIE MARLIA & GINO DEBARROS EISELE, AND JOHNNIE ROBINSON 48 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

DAVID & JAYNE LEROY

FEBRUARY 2022

WALTER CHARTRAND AND DEBORAH CAVALCANTE

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ITS

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49 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

snapShots AT AMELIA ISLAND RESTAURANT WEEK IN FERNANDINA BEACH

MARILYN SPAULDING AND GWEN CULL

TOM & PAM COOPER

EDWIND MONCALEANO AND WESLEY TWIGGS

KIRSTEN BOCIAN AND JAN IACOVELLI

AT THE “SIP & SHOP” EVENT WITH FERNANDINA BEACH MAIN STREET

DAVE & ALLY PLATT

CHERYL & MIKE OHERON

NATALIE MEEUWSEN, JILL BOLSTAD, EVA MEREDITH, AND JANET MANN

BETH HUTCHINSON AND KELLY BANKSTON

AT AN AMELIA CRUIZERS EVENT TO BENEFIT MICAH’S PLACE AT TOWNIES PIZZERIA

LEX & SHERRY SOLAT

FRED & TINA RODER

ISABEL & MASON FORTENBERRY

VIRGIL STUMBO AND GATOR SEDWICK

AT THE EUROPEAN-AMERICAN BUSINESS CLUB EVENT AT ROSEWOOD ESTATE SALES

SHAWN HARRELL WITH CLAUDIA & TIM BURNINGHAM

MARTIN WILSON AND JOHN NEWCOMER 50 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

LYNN NEWCOMER AND LIZ RAWSON

FEBRUARY 2022

ALUCIANNE CISKOVSKY, JOHN NEWCOMER, AND SANDY GAY

www.AmeliaIslander.com

SEASONAL SALE UP TO 50% OFF! LAILY SCHLEGEL

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AMELIA ISLAND PAINT & HARDWARE

OLDEST HARDWARE STORE IN FERNANDINA! 516 Ash Street (6th & Ash) Historic Fernandina Beach Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 7:30 - 5 Sat 8 - 4:30 Closed Wed & Sun ameliapaint@hotmail.com 904.261.6604 51 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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Elegant yet affordable assisted living in Fernandina Beach Nestled amongst large old oak trees, Savannah Grand—an assisted living and

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memory care community—offers gracious retirement senior living with personalized care plans to meet your individual needs. Our senior living team members—many of which have been with the community for many years—make superior service a way of life.

Call today for a tour and have lunch with us! 1900 Amelia Trace Court Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 (904) 321-0898 52 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

18 hole Arnold Palmer designed course 10 Minutes from Amelia Island Affordable Rates •Great Conditions Full Practice Facility Rentals Available • Friendly Staff PGA Instruction Available Full Clubhouse Amenities Lunch Served Daily Open to the Public

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FERNANDINA FACES

Ron Miller BY DICKIE ANDERSON PHOTO BY STEVE LEIMBERG, UNSEENIMAGES.COM

hen Ron Miller greets you with his signature smile, you instantly want to get to know him. It doesn’t take long to learn that he has enormous passion for the history of Amelia Island, especially its African American history. This self-styled historian has used his knowledge and his own personal history in American Beach to create a new business called Coast One Tours. Miller’s comprehensive tours offer an in-depth look at not only American Beach, but also Kingsley Plantation, Fernandina Beach, and Old Town. Growing up in Jacksonville, Miller visited American Beach often. In those years, it was one of the only Florida beaches where African Americans were welcome. He would stay at the home of the son of A.L. Lewis, one of the founders of American Beach. The elder Lewis is a legend. With only an elementary school education, he helped found the Afro-American Life Insurance Company, became Florida’s first African American millionaire, and in 1935, he and his business partners established American Beach. The A. L. Lewis Museum, founded in 2014, celebrates the history and legacy of American Beach. Growing up and spending a lot of time in American Beach, Miller remembers when visitors would come from all over the country and stay at one of the many motels close to the beach. There was surf fishing, shell gathering, beauty contests, and car races on the beach. Miller remembers climbing Nana Dune, the tallest natural sand dune on Florida’s coast before it was protected landmark. It is now part of the National Park Service, thanks largely to the efforts of MaVynne Betsch, “the Beach Lady.” The Evans Rendezvous and Ocean-Vu-Inn offered dining and dancing. American Beach hosted many celebrities during this period, including Zora Neale Hurston, Cab Calloway, Ray Charles, and Billy Eckstein. It is said that James Brown was actually turned away from performing outside Evans Rendezvous. Miller, a retired railroad conductor for CSX, was a baseball umpire for both high schools and college for more than 40 years. He was head umpire for the City of Fernandina Beach and 53 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

Church League softball. As a youngster, he competed in every sport. What is his favorite sport? Probably basketball, he shares. Active in the American Beach community, Miller is in touch with people who have lived in the community through the years and know its history and personalities well. In addition to the history of American Beach, his tours include a stop at Kingsley Plantation on Fort George Island, a working plantation before the end of slavery, and stops along the Amelia River in Fernandina Beach and Old Town, where participants learn the tragic history of the slaves offloaded on Amelia Island as part of the Middle Passage, the forced voyage of enslaved Africans across the Atlantic Ocean to the New World. What does Miller do for fun? With a big grin, he is quick to say surf fishing. He especially likes to drive his truck on the beaches at the south end of the island, where he hopes to find the whiting are biting. Miller and his wife, Avis, have a blended family of four children and seven grandchildren. Miller hopes that his tours will help educate and preserve the treasured history of American Beach and the many contributions of African Americans to Amelia Island. For more information or to schedule a tour, visit coastonetoursllc.com.

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IN THE GARDEN L.A. Dreaming Hydrangea

conspicuous color With the Pantone Color Institute’s choice of Very Peri as this year’s color, add that striking shade to your garden with LA Dreaming Hydrangea and Bellini Grape Lagerstroemia. BY BETTY MORRELL

inter is a great time to add some new plants to your garden and bring it up-to-date. They say you’re never too old to learn, and I just learned about the Pantone Color Institute, which highlights a new color palette each year. Rather than a solid color, this year the company chose a combination color, symbolizing the unprecedent times of change we are experiencing. Very Peri is a mix of vibrant shades of periwinkle blue with energizing violet-red undertones. In researching Star Roses and Bloomables, I found a few PP plants with this new color combo. The first one is LA Dreaming Hydrangea, a very unique hybrid. With its dazzling color display of pinks, blues, and everything inbetween, it is awesome. This 5-foot high re-bloomer has dark green foliage and it’s great in the garden or in a container. Place it where it will get morning sun and afternoon shade. The next amazing plant is the Bellini Grape Lagerstroemia. With its compact size and awesome colors, this wonderful Crape Myrtle is unlike any other variety on the market. Bellini Grape is a bright

TIP O OF F T HE M O N T H Now is the time to plant bare root roses and cut your existing roses to about knee high; they will flush out with in early spring to enjoy all summer long. These plants are available at Walmart and Lowe’s.

purple addition to the garden. This compact dense shrub measures 3 feet to 4 feet in height and width. Plant it in full sun. A nice change from a Crape Myrtle tree, these are very versatile and can be planted in containers or mass-planted in the garden. If you are a Rose lover, you might want to include Sunbelt Plum Perfection in your garden. This fragrant Floribunda beauty not only has intense lavenderand-plum-colored flowers with shiny green leaves, but it is also heat- and humidity-tolerant. Plant this beautiful rose in full sun and enjoy it. Butterflies in your garden will enjoy the Dapper Lavender Buddleia bush, with its long blooming season and rounded, compact habit. The light

55 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

purple flowers bloom in early spring and continue to rebloom into fall, and the beautiful green foliage is a great backdrop. Spent flowers are hidden by new blooms, which reduces the need to deadhead. This 3-foot by 3-foot bush can be planted along a foundation, in a container, or in groups in full sun. A new Proven Winner annual that will appear this spring is New Ageratum (Artist Pearl Flossflower). This heattolerant continuous bloomer has small fluffy white button-like flowers that add color all season. They attract bees, birds, butterflies, and hummingbirds. How wonderful! Artists Pearl grows 8 to 12 inches and spreads its mounding green foliage 6 to 10 inches. Plant in part-sun to sun, and it will bloom until a hard freeze. It makes a great border plant, in containers, as cut flowers, and in mass plantings. Trim back anytime and it will flush back into bloom in a week or so. I’ll have more new and exciting annuals in the next issue. If you have any questions, you can email me at bamorrell33@gmail.com. In the meantime, Happy Gardening!

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CELEBRATING

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Pick up the Amelia Island Map & Guide for information on great food, fun things to do, and fabulous places to rest. www.ameliaislandfloridamap.com www.AmeliaIslander.com

ISLAND HOME

A HOME FOR

athering

BY JULIE SIMMONS PHOTOS BY JESSIE PREZA PHOTOGRAPHY

Above: A hallmark feature of the Hall’s new home is the open floor plan, with abundant access to outdoor living. Above right: The Halls partnered with Lola Interiors from the beginning of the project. Tiffany Hinton and her team helped Heather and Ben bring color and a cohesive design from the outside in.

lot of folks on Amelia Island will love hearing the story of this home because of the admiration they have for its owners, Heather and Ben Hall, of Hall’s Quality Painting. The duo grew up on Amelia Island, married, raised two beautiful daughters, Haley and Makaela, and, of course, founded and maintain a family-focused commercial, residential, exterior, and interior painting business. “We’ve had the chance to partner with so many families in the construction of their beautiful homes, and this time it was a dream come true to embark on our

57 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

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ISLAND HOME

Above: The unique lighting throughout the home is a key feature, as in the dining room chandelier and the bar area. Right: Lola Interiors helped Heather and Ben pair patterns in tile with other choices like countertops, cabinetry, and wallpaper for a unique but unified feel to every space in the home. Below right: The home showcases an abundance of built-in shelving, cabinetry, and unique woodwork.

own custom home project,” the couple shares. “This is our third home off Barnwell Road, and we absolutely love this corner of Fernandina Beach.” One day on a walk, Heather and Ben stumbled upon the oak-canopied acreage in Palm Bluff, a quiet and quaint one-road neighborhood, and they knew it was home. The Halls teamed with Downs Drafting and Design to decide on the perfect house plan for them before taking on the challenge of leading the charge as contractors of their own home. One of their very first decisions was to invite Tiffany Hinton of Lola Interiors to the design team. “We were so excited to have the opportunity to help our friends and industry partners on their new home,” says Tiffany. “We have worked on many client jobs together, so to work on something for them personally was such a treat. “Being on the team from the beginning of the construction planning phase is always a plus so we can strategize for all of 58 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

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Above: Each of the three bedrooms features abundant views of the oakcanopied natural backdrop. Above right: The master bath has a pristine white-on-white palate and features a soaker tub. Right: Another of the 3.5 baths illustrates the cohesion yet uniqueness of the design from Lola Interiors, which each finish and furnishing working together.

the finishes and furnishings to work together. The Halls trusted our alignment with their vision, which enabled us to play with patterns in the tile and wallpaper selections, resulting in a custom feel to each room, as well as an overall cohesive design.” The finished home is 3 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, along with a library, which is Ben’s favorite place for escape to read, study, and use his amazing talents to draw and paint beautiful and expressive portraits. Meanwhile, Heather is usually found in her kitchen, butler’s pantry, or outdoor living space preparing to host the next event. “We laugh with friends that we built a venue,” says Heather. “We’ve hosted 7 or 8 parties since October and just love entertaining.” And entertaining comes easy with their open floor plan and abundant outdoor living. Family and friends love gathering beside the outdoor fireplace, dining under the oaks, and of course, lounging in the inviting pool. Both the Hall’s and Tiffany agree that the top design feature is the bursts of color. “Being in the painting business, Heather and Ben are not afraid of color; they know how easy it is to 60 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

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ISLAND HOME

change the colors when they want to. This mindset allowed us to incorporate some fun, colorful elements, our favorite being the foyer Thibaut wallpaper, which set the tone for the rest of the home,” says Tiffany. Heather agreed. “The foyer wallpaper is the best! And the lighting throughout! Partnership with Tiffany helped us to make bold decisions, mix metals, select blue tile, and to pull it together with professionalism and a design that we love!” As the couple looks to the future and prepares to welcome their fourth grandchild this month, they couldn’t be prouder of their new digs, and more importantly, the memories they are making there as a family.

Top left: The outdoor living area is the Hall’s favorite space. The family loves to entertain and has abundant room indoors and out to do just that, with large sliding doors that expand the space. Top right: The outdoor dining space features easy access to the kitchen and butler’s pantry, providing an ideal setup for gathering. Above: The pool is a crown jewel of the project, where the family makes lots of great memories with children and grandchildren.

62 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2022

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EATING SCENE

Lagniappe With a lively atmosphere, spacious bar, and comfortable booths, Lagniappe serves up mouthwatering Southern cuisine with an unmistakable taste of New Orleans. BY LOIS CHAPPELL WINKLER • PHOTO BY LILLY SCHEETZ

ne Tuesday, I wondered where my friend, Karen Langshaw, and I might find a good place to relax and let the good times roll, and we decided on Lagniappe, located on the south end of Amelia Island. Lagniappe is always buzzing when I’m there, but there is room for all in its generous bar, large dining room lined with booths, two separate smaller dining rooms, and patio with a fire pit. Karen began with a signature house cocktail, the “L” Fashioned, with house Creole bitters and a Luxardo cherry. Cherries for grownups, Luxardos are tiny, almost black, nutty, and elegant beauties from Croatia and Italy. For me, how better to grasp the good times than with the Les Bon Temps cocktail, a citrus peach-lavender treat. Laissez les bons temps rouler! Our server, Chris, answered our questions in the detail I adore. “This restaurant is essentially homecooking done very well,” he said while describing some house specialties. Popular appetizers include fried green tomatoes, pork belly, fried chicken wings, corn dog, poutine with daily special gravy, and gumbo. The pimento cheese and pepper jelly with my fried green tomatoes truly reminded me of my Augusta childhood. Karen’s Heritage Pork Belly was savory, with a sweet bit of apple chutney, crunchy arugula, and shaved pecorino, all finely balanced. Owner and Chef Brian Grimley is English, but he has truly captured the flavors of the American South. After an engineering degree in England, he landed in the Tidewater region on the Atlantic coast. He studied diligently in his self-taught culinary quest, spending time in New Orleans, Charleston, and Savannah and crafting his own style from ideas learned from Paul Prudhomme, Jacques Pepin, and others. Executive Chef Brett Heritage is a graduate of the Fernandina Beach High School Culinary Program, graduated from FSCJ culinary school, and has been working in local kitchens ever since. Casual fine dining is what to expect at Lagniappe. On the menu are sandwiches, burgers, crabcake on brioche, and po boys on Leidenheimer’s French Quarter Pistolet, the bread that has defined the po boy since 1929. And that corn dog is no ordinary corn dog. As our server, Chris, said about home64 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

cooking done very well, this is a Lobster Tail Corn Dog! Brian knows his way around shellfish after having developed a popular seafood restaurant known for its Maryland crab. Each time my friend, Sherry, eats at Lagniappe, she takes home an order of Mayport Shrimp Mac ‘N’ Cheese to enjoy later. My take-homes have included the incomparable Crispy Brussels Sprouts. How does Hoppin’ John with Pickled Collards sound? My entree of Blue Corn Crusted Catfish came with these and Crawfish Etouffée, creating a heady mix of flavors and textures.

Karen’s Veal Scallopini reminded her of piccatas she has loved, but better, with its rich lemon-caper beurre blanc, saffron rice, asparagus, and fried leek. Do you know what a Lagniappe is? Pronounced lan-yap, it’s the Cajun word for little something extra. We took home a lagniappe of our own, the Tres Leches cake, which was so moist and delicious. What an easy place to be, full of joie de vivre! Lagniappe, located on First Coast Highway, is open daily for lunch and dinner from 11 am to 10 pm, with breakfast on Sundays from 10 am to 3 pm.

FEBRUARY 2022

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dining out AMELIA ISLANDER

DINING GUIDE Amelia Island Coffee ~ For more than 16 years, Amelia Island Coffee has been a welcoming place to meet. This family-owned business features friendly service, locally roasted single-source coffee, cold brew, select organic teas and freshly baked pastries, pies and cakes. Breakfast and lunch are served all day, along with small plates and appetizers in the evening. You’ll find a selection of mainstream and craft beers along with varietal wines, as well as ice cream, milkshakes, frappes, fruit smoothies and frozen lemonade. The ambiance of a 100-year-old building is enhanced by outdoor, pet-friendly dining. Open 7 days, 7 am Mon–Sat and 8 am on Sun. Major credit cards. 207 Centre Street. (904) 321-2111. Ameliaislandcoffee.com. Amelia Island Brewing Company ~ on Centre Street provides delicious local food and cold brews to the friends and guests of Amelia Island. Our kitchen serves amped up southern comfort food, where you’ll see enough diversity to be surprised without losing sight of the simple stuff you love. The collection of house brews and craft beer options are curated to match the menu, with plenty of pairings to fit any palette. AIBC is a brewery infused gastropub, or a brewpub with great food, something like that - just stop in, grab a bite and a sip, you’ll see. We are doing it our way, the right way, for you and for this Island. Bar Zin ~ Our philosophy at Bar Zin is quite simple: create a fun relaxed upbeat indoor/outdoor atmosphere where friends and families can enjoy creative, fresh American bistro cuisine. We offer a diverse beverage menu of great wines, local brews, and Saki martinis. When possible, we source from local farmers, local products, and local businesses to create a farm-to-table style menu. Our vision is to create a neighborhood atmosphere where everyone will feel welcome; a place where everyone will have a relaxing and fun time. barzin-bistro-winebar.com. Lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch. Major credit cards. 4924 First Coast Hwy at Palmetto Walk Shopping Village. (904) 310-6620. Brett’s Waterway Cafe ~ The only restaurant on the island where you can dine overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, Brett’s offers a wide choice of seafood, chicken and beef with daily specials both at lunch and dinner. The view of the water, the impeccable service and the refined ambiance will enhance your dining pleasure. The large rectangular bar overlooking the Fernandina Harbor Marina is a pleasant place to enjoy a drink. At the marina on Front Street. (904) 261-2660. Open 7 days, Mon-Sat. Burlingame ~ In the historic district just off Centre Street at 20 South 5th Street, this restaurant offers seasonally inspired modern American food with a twist. The small menu enables our team to focus on a handful of exquisite dishes developed from the freshest ingredients each season. Our superb service and casually elegant atmosphere create a special experience. Extensive wine/beer list. Reservations recommended. Open 5:30pm Mon – Sat. Closed Sun. (904) 432-7671. BurlingameRestaurant.com. Crab Trap ~ Nautical decor and friendly service makes for a casual, relaxing atmosphere. Dinner daily offers seafood—fried, grilled, broiled, or blackened—as well as steaks, chicken and oysters year round. Entrees $8.95 $18.95. Call for seasonal hours. Beer, wine, and cocktails. Family owned and operated since 1979. 31 N 2nd Street, (904) 261-4749. David’s Restaurant ~ David’s has an amazing steakhouse & seafood menu, upscale romantic atmosphere, and professional service. New Caviar menu with toast points or Blinis and accoutrements consisting of crème fraiche, red onion, capers & chopped egg. Full bar and large wine menu including wines by the glass. Dining creations such as Filet Oscar, our Signature 16oz. Grilled Delmonico Ribeye, and when available our 24 oz. Porterhouse Steak. Daily fish specials as well as English Channel Dover Sole & Chilean Sea Bass. Vegetarian & Vegan options. Happy Hour Sunday - Thursday 5 to 7 pm (except Special Events & Holidays). Lounge Menu & Port Flights. Incredible Whole Alaskan King Crab 6-10 lb. average. Full dessert menu and after-dinner cordials. Lounge opens at 5 pm,

AMELIA ISLAND - FLORIDA

LEDDY’S

PORCH

Southern Comfort Food Lunch Wed-Fri 11:00am-2:30pm Come try our fried chicken! Brunch Sat & Sun ~ 10:00am-2:30pm $10 bottomless Bloody Mary’s & Mimosas!

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OUR PHILOSOPHY IS SIMPLE ~ Southern comfort food and interesting cocktails. 22 SOUTH THIRD STREET 904-491-3322 • FLORIDAHOUSEINN.COM

65 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

904-277-3141 www.nassauhealthfoods.net

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dining guide

BEST SUSHI IN TOWN

JAPANESE GRILL & SUSHI BAR FERNANDINA BEACH 1478 SADLER RD (904) 261-9855 Tu – Th: 11a – 10p F – Sa: 11a – 11p Su: 12 – 10p

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232 North 2nd Street Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 904-775-5577 66 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

dinner at 6 pm, Closed Tuesdays. Young Adult menu available. Reservations highly recommended. Private wine room holds 12 & private dining room up to 50. Resort casual. 802 Ash Street. (904) 310-6049. Make reservations online at AmeliaIslandDavids.com. España ~ Featuring Old World cuisine from Portugal and Spain, España offers an intriguing menu in a comfortably elegant atmosphere in downtown Fernandina Beach. Owner/chef Roberto Pestana serves mouthwatering tapas like Grouper Ceviche, Portobello al La España, and Shrimp with Garlic, all served with España’s homemade bread. Entrees include a classic Seafood Paella, and a variety of fresh local seafood and meats. España also features an extensive wine list and an excellent homemade sangria. Available for private parties. Reservations recommended. Major credit cards. Open 7 days. (904) 261-7700. 22 South 4th Street. Fancy Sushi ~ We serve fine Japanese cuisine from our Hibachi grill, the best Tempura and the tastiest Teriyaki this side of Tokyo. We give you all the fine foods with friendly service. Come by and give us a visit and we’ll serve you with smiles and the freshest sushi that you won’t find anywhere but here at Fancy Sushi. Open 7 days. (904) 261-9855. 1478 Sadler Rd. Florida House Inn ~ Southern cooking at its finest at Leddy’s Porch. Menu includes Southern Salads, Sandwiches, Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Collard Greens, and much more. Black Board specials daily. Open for brunch Wed. – Fri. from 11am – 2:30pm and Sat. – Sun. 10am – 2:30pm. The Mermaid Bar at The Florida House Inn is open Mon. – Sat. at 5pm. Daily drink specials and Open Mic every other Thursday night. 22 South Third Street, (904)491-3322. Joe’s 2nd Street Bistro ~ Located in historic downtown Fernandina, Joe’s 2nd Street Bistro serves innovative cuisine in a relaxed, island atmosphere. Enjoy fresh seafood, game, and specialty dishes in a charming 1903 home, or outside in a New Orleans-inspired courtyard. Jacksonville Magazine Top 25. Extensive wine list available. Reservations recommended. (904) 321-2558. Open seven days. Lagniappe Restaurant ~ [“lan-yap”] One of Jacksonville Magazine’s Top 50 Restaurants and voted #1 Chef and #1 Amelia Island Restaurant by “Best in the 904” voters across NE Florida! From the melting-pot culinary heritage of Charleston, New Orleans, and Savannah comes Lagniappe, where you can always expect a little something more. Chef-owner Brian Grimley’s respect for Southern tradition, culinary curiosity, and a quarterdecade’s experience in Virginia’s Tidewater District shine through a delectable line-up of evolving charcuterie selections, house-smoked meats, and seafood must-haves like po’ boys, salmon brûlée, and the occasional whole fried fish! Dig in with loved ones over wine, considered cocktails, and curated bourbons in a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. Open daily, 11am–10pm; Happy Hour 3pm–6pm; Sunday Southern Breakfast 10am–3pm. 4810 First Coast Hwy. lagniappeamelia.com The Mustard Seed Cafe ~ Located inside Nassau Health Foods, The Mustard Seed is Amelia Island’s only organic eatery and juice bar, with an extensive, eclectic menu featuring vegetarian and vegan items. Daily specials include local seafood, organic chicken and fresh organic produce. Salads, wraps, sandwiches, and soups are available—all prepared with The Mustard Seed’s impeccable style. Popular items are chicken or veggie quesadillas, grilled mahi or salmon over mixed greens and tuna melt with Swiss cheese and tomato. Open for breakfast and lunch, Mon - Sat., 8 am - 3pm, and 10am - 2pm on Sun. NassauHealthFoods.net. 833 T. J. Courson Rd. (904) 277-3141. Pogo’s Kitchen ~ Serving southern cuisine with a bend, with a menu that celebrates the full medley of Southern flavors. Cocktails and wine selections are simple but creative. Vsit us for dinner, lunch or brunch at POGO’s Kitchen—a bright, open eatery tucked away from the main lines, waiting to unpack your day and refill your glass. (904) 432-8483. pogoskitchen.com. Pozzi Bistro ~ A new “Old World” style restaurant. Espresso bar and café by day and a full menu restaurant by night. We offer pastries, espresso drinks, blended shakes, and brunch specialty beverages, and brunch each day. In the evening, come and taste charcuterie, cheese, and wine, or a relaxing meal in our dining room or on our outdoor patio. Our simple menu features steak, lobster, crabcake, and more. Top off your evening with one of our house

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dining out made desserts. Wed - Fri 11am - 9pm; Sat & Sun 9am 9pm. 300 Ash Street. Call (904) 310-3779 or email info@pozzicoffeeandwinebar.com. Sliders Seaside Grill ~ The Caribbean on Amelia Island! Exotic seafood and steaks served to order are the specials of the house. Enjoy a beautiful oceanfront view inside, or on the patio, located steps from the beach. Open daily for lunch & dinner. 1998 S. Fletcher Ave. at Sadler Rd. (next to the roundabout). (904) 277-6652. Story & Song Bistro ~ Neighborhood bookstore/bistro serving breakfast and lunch indoors or in the “secret garden” courtyard. Home of Amelia’s “Wings” murals. Enjoy favorites like a genuine Bronx bagel, quiche, Ina Garten’s chicken salad, and seasonal specials made with fresh, local ingredients. Organic coffee, Rishi tea, rose lemonade, beer and wine also available. Monday-Saturday 10am to 2pm, Sunday 11am to 2pm. 1430 Park Avenue at the 14th St. entrance to Amelia Park. (904) 601-2118. Thai Spice Cafe ~ Located on Sadler Road next to Jersey Mike’s. We are proud to prepare fresh authentic Thai food. Our menu features traditional Thai dishes, Curries, fried rice, appetizers, soups, salads, and other Thai specials. Come join us for lunch or dinner, or call us for carry-out orders. Happy Hour 5 - 8pm Everyday! Buy 1 get one free House Wine! M - Th 11am - 3pm and 5 - 9:30pm; F 11am - 3pm and 5 - 10pm; Sa 12 - 9:30pm; Su closed. (904) 432-7748. thaispicecafe.com. Townies Pizzeria ~ Townies is the “Locals’ Choice for Island Pizza”. All of our food is prepared fresh to order. Townies uses real cheese, only the finest quality ingredients, and fresh local produce. Unlike the big pizza chains, our sauces don’t come out of a paint can. Pizza! One Luv! 819 TJ Courson Road. (904) 277-4755. Order online at TowniesPizzeria.com or call! Wicked Bao ~ Enjoy Asian Street Food in a charming historical building in downtown Fernandina Beach. Small Plates, Noodle+Rice, Baos. Beer, Wine, Sake, Vietnamese Coffee. Happy Hour 4-6 Monday -Thursday & Dinner 4-9 Monday - Saturday. 232 N. 2nd St. (904) 775-5577. Please find our menu at WickedBao.com.

Coīee so good that Ɵme stands sƟll! The place to meet for locally roasted coīee, fresh food, pastries, beer, wine and great company. Voted #1 coffee shop on the Island*

Locally Owned. Open daily for fresh coīee and tea, breakfast, lunch and aŌernoon snacks. For Catering info, email owners@ameliaislandcoīee.com.

Friday Night Trivia

207 Centre Street 904-321-2111

www.ameliaislandcoīee.com * Trip Advisor, Google, Yelp

To read additional restaurant reviews,

PHOTO BY CHRISTY LELAIT

visit ameliaislander.com.

Intimate Fine Dining Open for Lunch & Dinner 6 Days a Week Closed Tuesday

ine Jacksonville Magaz

Top 25

67 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

14 South Second Street • 321-2558

FEBRUARY 2022

Find us on Facebook and Trip Advisor! www.AmeliaIslander.com

SLOW YOUR DREAM HOME COULD BE HIDDEN IN THE FOLLOWING PAGES! Take your time as you walk through the pages of our OPEN HOUSE section so you don’t miss some of the most desireable home listings on Amelia Island.

68 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

COASTAL BOATERS

Par ise

An unbelievable opportunity to own a 3 bedroom, 2 bath deep water home with the most amazing waterfront sunrises and sunsets! This home features a private dock that can fit up to a 50 foot boat, a 4 car, heated and cooled, 1,222 square foot garage, private pool, full home generator, 250 gallon (owned) propane tank, private well, and a wood burning fireplace! This

spacious 2,810 square foot home is excellent for entertaining or relaxing on the dock or by the pool! This type of property— within minutes of Amelia Island and less than 25 minutes to the Jacksonville airport—is extremely hard to find. Pirates Wood neighborhood has a community boat ramp, club house, and a pool as well. Schedule your showing today!

For more information on this exceptional property, please call Doug Hamer with The Edwards Company at (904) 654-9828. 69 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

www.AmeliaIslander.com

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

FÅM ,O /PWF :JUI

RECORD SETTING YEAR FOR AMELIA ISLAND REAL ESTATE SERVICES

$226,838,732

TOTAL SALES VOLUME

260

TRANSACTIONS HIGHEST RECORDED SALES IN: SINGLE FAMILY HOMES 41 OCEAN CLUB DRIVE $8,250,000

WHERE YOU LIVE

Inventory is low and we have buyers looking for their next dream home. ˂˨˥ ˥˘˔˟ ˘˦˧˔˧˘ ˧˘˔ˠ ˜˦ ˔ˡ ˢ˙Ѓ˖˘ ˙˨˟˟ ˢ˙ energetic, forward thinking professionals. Our agents have an intimate knowledge of the region and an unmatched devotion to client relationships. Since 1973 we have been ˧˛˘ ˧ˢˣ ˣ˥ˢ˗˨˖˜ˡ˚ ˥˘˔˟ ˘˦˧˔˧˘ ˢ˙Ѓ˖˘ ˜ˡ Amelia Island Plantation. We are proud to be

CONDOMINIUMS 6535 SPYGLASS CIRCLE $4,250,000

ˢˡ˘ ˢ˙ ˧˛˘ ˠˢ˦˧ ˦˨˖˖˘˦˦˙˨˟ ˥˘˔˟ ˘˦˧˔˧˘ ˢ˙Ѓ˖˘˦ in Northeast Florida. We recognize the value and trust that our clients place in us and strive every day to exceed

VACANT LOTS 31 OCEAN CLUB DRIVE $3,050,000

Whether you’re looking to buy, sell or rent -- we have experts that exude credibility,

their expectations.

commitment and have the determination to help with all of your real estate transactions.

View all of our current listings in the palm of your hand. Visit your app store and search for Amelia RE to download our app. Located at Omni Amelia Island Resort | 10 Amelia Village Circle Amelia Island, FL 32034 | (904) 277-5980 | (800) 874-0322 AmeliaIslandRealEstate.net | aiprealestate@realestateamelia.com

AMELIA RE

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

A Trusted Name in Real Estate Since 1984 theedwardscompany.com

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

GLENN Hancock REALTOR (904) 583-7099

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

DOUG Hamer REALTOR (904) 654-9828

TAYLOR Edwards BROKER (904) 753-1814

508 SAILMAKER

97439 BLACKBEARDS WAY

96131 SWEETBRIAR LANE

Fantastic location for this furnished 3BR,3BA townhome at Summer Beach overlooking the community pool and just steps to the beach. Recently updated throughout, new kitchen cabinets, quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances. New vinyl plank flooring. PENDING $560,000 MLS#97973

BOATERS PARADISE!! Unbelievable opportunity to own a 3BR/2BA deep water home with the most amazing waterfront sunrises and sunsets!!! This home features: private dock that can fit up to a 50’ boat, 4 car heated and cooled 1222 square foot garage, pool, and full home generator. REDUCED $1,081,000 MLS#97333

Beautiful 3BR/2BA home and 900 square foot heated and cooled Metal garage/ outbuild in Glen Laurel. Fantastic opportunity to have all your boats/RV's/ Toys on your property. This split bedroom home design features vaulted 10 ft ceilings in the living room and kitchen. 3/4 Acre. JUST LISTED $535,000 MLS#97751

1885 LAKE PARK DR

717 OCEAN CLUB PL

LOT 46 S FLETCHER AVE

Amelia Park-Lake View home centrally located on Amelia Island. This 3BR/2.5BA home is a must see, open floor plan with split BR plan, large screened lanai with an oversized spa/pool and patio. Large covered front porch, 15' x 18', perfect for tranquil setting enjoyment. PENDING $795,000 MLS#97095

Ocean Club Villa at Amelia Island Plantation. This 6th floor oceanfront 4BR/ 4BA villa offers incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean, pristine beach, community pool and an endless vista. Convenient location just steps to the Ocean Club Clubhouse. PENDING MLS#97133

Excellent opportunity to build your dream home with potential ocean views. This lot is 50' wide and 110' feet deep, located on the west side of S. Fletcher Ave in the 2300 block. Short walk to beach access 23 to the north and beach access 24 to the south. PENDING $450,000 MLS#96461

5317 S. Fletcher Ave | Amelia Island, FL 32034 | 904-261-8433

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

2620 & 2630 OCKLAWAHA AVENUE Buy land by the Sea

Claudia Watts BROKER-EXECUTIVE claudia.watts@coldwellbanker.com 904.556.4000 www.claudiawatts.com

BUILD ANEW! Come explore this vacant lot just a stone’s throw to the beach and set under a beautiful tree canopy on Amelia Island. A wonderful location with a comprehensive data ﬁle on hand for preparing to build anew (includes topographic, boundary & tree surveys, engineers report, architects plans, etc.). Lot is densely-treed and will need clearing. Get ready to enjoy long days on Amelia’s pristine shoreline after building your custom home with your preferred builder. No HOA rules or fees with this property. MLS#96998 ~ $439,000

32071 PRIMROSE PARKE WAY Magical on The Mainland

Kathy Garland REALTOR

kathyg@bellsouth.net 904-556-5744 THE CLAUDIA WATTS TEAM

4856 First Coast Highway, Suite 2

‘ALBATERA C’ Plan is one of SEDA’s most popular with open ﬂoor plan, with 2,480 sq. ft., volume ceilings, 3BD/2.5BA and study which could be utilized as a 4th bedroom. Ample windows, large open kitchen featuring a built-in breakfast table. Back patio and screening has been extended with peaceful pond view. Enhanced landscaping, metal fencing, decorator interior paint, ceiling fans in every room except dining, Generac “on demand” generator. Gutters, insulated garage doors, window coverings, water softener, and 3 car garage all make this home ideal. Home in excellent condition! MLS#98067 ~ $524,900

LOCATED IN PALMETTO WALK ON SOUTH AMELIA ISLAND • OFFICE: 904.261.0347

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

Colleen Gerke, Top Producer Realtor (904) 866-1211 colleen@closewithcolleen.com

FOR SALE

96214 Park Pl. Oyster Bay Harbour Vacant Lot $200,000

When calling about the properties featured in this Open House section, please mention you saw

UNDER CONTRACT 96356 Light Wind Dr. Oyster Bay Harbour 3 bed / 2.5 bath Beautifully updated and maintained $629,000

the ad in the Amelia Islander Magazine. www.ameliaislander.com

UNDER CONTRACT 96189 Park Pl. Oyster Bay Harbour Vacant Lot

1405 Park Avenue, Suite 102, Amelia Island www.closewithcolleen.com

ISLAND ENTERTAINING VIRGINIA BEATEN BISCUIT Aunt Caroline’s Dixieland Recipes, compiled by Emma and William McKinney, 1922 Ingredients 1 quart flour 1 tsp. salt 1 Tbsp. lard Preparation Work lard lightly into the flour and salt, mix with iced water, then beat dough with a rolling pin until it blisters. Cut into biscuits and bake in a quick oven. MILK BAKED HAM Soul Food Cookbook by Princess Pamela, 1969

Soul& Food More BY KAREN MILLER • PHOTO BY SHERRY CARTER

n celebration of Black History Month this year, I took a culinary journey into soul food and found out so much about the food and culture of our African American friends and families. Did you know that cookbooks are important contributions and resources for the study of history and culture? To begin, I bought a copy of The Jemima Code: Two Centuries of African American Cookbooks by Toni Tipton-Martin, which was published in 2015. It was one of the best books I read last year. Within its pages, I got to know Vertamae Grosvenor, an American culinary anthropologist, food writer, broadcaster, and story-teller, who stated in 1970: “It seems to me while certain foods have been labeled ‘soul food’ and associated with Afro-Americans, AfroAmericans could be associated with all foods.” And as I pondered the recipes

and histories of these cookbooks, I realized what she was talking about. Especially in the cookbooks of the 1960s and 70s, many recipes were similar to ones my own mother cooked – gelatin salads, stews, roasts, and cakes, using regional foods, spices, and flavorings. This month, I’m trying a vast number of “new’ recipes from these fascinating books, including Milk Baked Ham, Tea Cakes, Sweet Potato Mounds, Custard Ice Cream, Virginia Beaten Biscuit, and more. I hope to serve many of these foods to my friends and family this February as we celebrate Black History. My favorite recipe in this collection? “A Recipe to Cure the Blues,” its last verse being: “Soon you’ll find your heart uplifted, and your lips will sing a song, as you count your many blessings, you’ll find your worries gone.”

76 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

FEBRUARY 2022

Ingredients 2-inch-thick slice of ham 1 Tbsp. flour 2 heaping tsp. dry mustard 2 Tbsp. brown sugar Sweet milk Preparation Combine the flour, dry mustard, and brown sugar. Work the mixture onto both sides of ham slice. Place in a baking dish and cover completely with milk. Bake at 350 degrees for about an hour or until ham is tender. When ham is done, its surface should be browned and the milk almost entirely disappeared. OLD-FASHIONED CUSTARD ICE CREAM New Orleans Cookbook by Lena Richards, 1985 Ingredients 1 quart milk 6 eggs 1 pint cream 1.5 cups sugar 1 vanilla bean Preparation Beat eggs until light and add sugar. Heat milk to boiling, add egg and sugar mixture. Cook until slightly thickened. Remove from fire and cool. Whip the cream and add to the mixture. Split vanilla bean, scrape the inside and add to the custard. Freeze with equal parts of ice and salt. For an additional recipe, visit www.ameliaislander.com/recipes.

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INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY CARE • REHAB • RESPITE CARE

TASTE the Life

17 N. Fletcher Ave | Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 | 904-432-7385

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Amelia Islander - February 2022

Articles inside

IN THE GARDEN BETTY MORRELL

Ron Miller

FOR THE LOVE OF READING

In The Neighborhood by Mandy Haynes

A Community with a Purpose

FORT CLINCH’S United States Colored Troops