Amelia Islander - June 2012

Amelia

ISLANDER PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID FERNANDINA BEACH, FL PERMIT NO. 104

JUNE 2012

Resort Renaissance Omni embarks on a Re-Imagination of the Amelia Island Plantation resort.

plus: ISLAND GIRLS • AMELIA’S CAMELLIAS • AMELIA ISLAND TROLLEY

The Kirouac Group, LLC is Fernandina Beach’s premier custom home design builder. The breathtaking luxury custom homes designed and built

by The Kirouac Group are recognized by their beautiful aesthetics, unsurpassed craftsmanship, and environmentally responsive design and construction. Our unmatched dedication to our clients has earned us a reputation for being a leading builder of exceptional custom homes.

Innovative and original, every Kirouac Group home is a unique result of the client’s vision and the company’s expertise. No matter what your dream or vision, the talent and skill of The Kirouac Group can bring your dream to life.

904.430.0272 1678 South 8th Street, Suite G4, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 www.thekirouacgroup.com CBC 1254358

furniture, fabrics, & garden flair.

Old friend, new twist!

HARRIS TEETER SHOPPING CENTER CORNER OF FIRST COAST HIGHWAY AND SOUTH FLETCHER AVENUE

1027 s. 8th street ~ fernandina beach 904.491.1199 insideouthomeandgarden.com

Monday - Saturday 10:00 - 5:30

All Major Credit Cards

(904) 491-4878

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN Fernandina Beach

Historic Downtown 215 Centre Street Fernandina Beach, FL 3 2034

26 1-25 01 Ladies Apparel • Accessories Gifts with a Twist

Where the locals meet.

Espresso • Panini • Dessert Bar 202 Centre Street Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach (904) 277-4880 • www.lindysjewelry.com

Enjoy homemade soups & fresh breads made in our own kitchen every day.

207 Centre Street 321-2111 Locally owned & operated for 17 years.

SHOE VISIONS

FINE FOOTWEAR & ACCESSORIES

Vaneli • Donald Pliner • Azura Born Crown • Cole Haan • Sofft Think • Naot • Mephisto 118 Centre St, Fernandina Beach

904-491-1245

ORIGINAL OILS • FRAMES • PRINTS METAL ART • WOOD CARVINGS MODEL PLANES & SHIPS • BALANCE TOYS NOVELTY GIFTS • HOME ACCENTS

NEW LOCATION, SAME OLD PRICES!

206 C ENTRE STREET (Across from coffee shop)

904-261-0444

Needlepoint June Trunk Show The Point of It All 302 Ash Street 904.729.4020 www.BristlyThistle.com

Specializing in European & coastal designers. We are a fullservice design house. Design consultants are available by appointment, or come by to browse our wares and wholesale furnishings catalogs.

No. 3 S. Third St., Historic Fernandina 904.321.0367 ~ 646.416.0310 www.vignette-design.com

AMELIA ISLAND LISTINGS AND SALES

Call

Pam Meyer For Professional Real Estate Services

Visit www.ameliaislandproperties.com, or email me at pammeyer@remax.net to learn more about available properties, real estate information, and Amelia Island area information.

Come see our new line of clothing featuring Fernandina’s favorite mascot—the shrimp!

We also carry Vineyard Vines, Castaway & more!

Professional Group

303 Centre Street, Suite102, Amelia Island

904.415.0303

204 Centre Street • (904) 277-1162

30 restaurants, 58 shops, 400 years of history, and one unforgettable waterfront sunset.

Savannah Grand

a spectacular assisted living community

Savannah Grand is an assisted living and memory support community nestled amongst scenic oak trees located just one block from the beach.

• Chef Prepared Dining Experience • Housekeeping, Laundry and Maintenance Services • Vibrant Activities Program Complimented by Many Events • Transportation for Outings and Medical Appointments • Private Suites Offering Several Floor Plans • Personalized Service Plans for Each Resident

Call us today, stop by for a visit, join us for lunch, or all of the above!

1900 Amelia Trace Court • Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 904.321.0898 • www.SavannahGrandAmeliaIsland.com Assisted Living Facility License # 9108

GLAMINGO!

“Think I’ll let that native land agent be my guide.”

CURTISS H. LASSERRE Real Estate, Inc.

The Fashionable Flamingo!

Residential - Commercial Rentals

Announce Holidays, Birthdays and Weddings with Style!

Dress Your Flamingo for Every Occasion

Call Anytime 904-261-4066 info@lasserrerealestate.com

Midwest Cucina Beatriz Ball Willow Margaret Furlong Scentations Mud Pie Bungalow Gathering of Friends Foxy Gourmet Zodax Creative Coop Karen Adams Designs Paper Taffy Elegant Baby Magnolia Lane Lolita Butch and Harrold Magnolia Casual Mississippi Cheese Straws Potting Shed Creatiions Matchstix Douglas Company

Premium Estate Lot on Egan’s Creek borders historic Amelia Island Lighthouse on east and south sides. 300’ on creek.

2.27+/- acres. $1,095,000.

“We have many great lots for building and investment, all are walking distance to the beach.

From $85,000.

extraordinary gifts for ordinary occasions HOURS: M-Sat 10-6 Sun. 12-4 904-261-2333 1008 Atlantic Avenue Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

2 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

Call or come by today for more info.

3032 8th St/Sr 200/A1A Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 www.lasserrerealestate.com www.AmeliaIslander.com

3 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

If the shoe fits, buy it in every color!

SHOE VISIONS

5

POINTS LIQUOR Svedka Vodka 1.75L $17.99

FINE FOOTWEAR & ACCESSORIES

Fashion for your style, comfort for your life.

The Spa & Shops at Omni Amelia Island Plantation

904-277-0909

118 Centre Street Fernandina Beach

904-491-1245

Famous Grousse 1.75 $27.99

SALE

6/1/12 to 6/30/12 Jack Daniels 750mL $17.99

Margaritaville Tequila 1.75L $19.99

Mon. – Thurs. 8am – 11pm Fri. – Sat. 8am – 12 midnight Sun. 2pm – 10pm All Major Credit Cards Accepted

2112 South 8th Street 1 Mile on Right, Past Intracoastal Bridge A1A SENIOR CITIZEN DISCOUNTS ON MONDAYS DRIVE THRU SERVICE LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

4 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

261-3640

A Construction and Home Improvement Company

Karlen Custom Homes has built an outstanding reputation based on attention to detail and exceptional customer service. We prefer the hands-on approach with every project from start to finish which our clients respect and appreciate.

Karlen Custom Homes Inc. is arguably one of the most versatile construction companies servicing Nassau and Duval County.

(904) 557-4208

Remodeling – Specializing in Kitchens and Bathrooms including shower restoration using Schluter Systems for long lasting tile installations.

Outdoor Living Area – Featuring Belgard pavers and Harmony Outdoor Living products for outdoor kitchens and living rooms that include fireplaces and pits, water features, bars, brick ovens, pillars and retaining walls.

www.karlenhomes.net

2959 Tidewater Street Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

(904) 557-4208

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www.AmeliaIslander.com

“

Amelia

ISLANDER

To visit a residential and resort community

Philip Kelly Deana Basile Kelly Publishers and Editors

that teemed with nature, even as it

Tom Barrett Art Director

teemed with so

Mark O’Day Advertising Sales

many two-legged upright creatures, seemed amazing…

Contributing Writers Dickie Anderson, Jan Davis, Theresa Duncan, Jim Ewing, Kate Harris, Nan Kavanaugh, Karen Miller, Betty Morrell, Julie Simmons

”

Our introduction to Amelia Island—more years ago now than we care to count— was through a family vacation at the Amelia Island Plantation. Phil’s mother had retired here, and we came for the first time as graduate students from New England for what we thought would be a typical Florida vacation. While we were wearing flip-flops and hitting the beach, as we expected, we were also surprised to find it very unlike any other trip to Florida we had ever experienced. We were happy to do less lazing on the beach and more exploring.

One of our first activities was a kayak trip with Christina Nelson at The Nature Center at Amelia Island Plantation. We enjoyed experiencing the local ecology so much that we took a second trip with Christina, seeking out birds and critters in the marshes and on the beach. The laden oak trees dripping with moss and the birds they enveloped, like the gloomy night herons, held a mysterious allure. To visit a residential and resort community that teemed with nature, even as it teemed with so many two-legged upright creatures, seemed amazing to us. We were hooked—and we had only begun our exploration of the island.

Of course, with the many miles of beach, the gorgeous historic downtown, The RitzCarlton, Amelia Island, The B&B’s, and so many lovely residential neighborhoods, there was much more to explore. It kept us coming back for more, until we eventually chose this as the place to start our family. All of these years later, we still retain a special place in our memories for Amelia Island Plantation and those first visits to the island. Now that the Amelia Island Plantation resort has become the Omni Amelia Island Plantation, we are pleased to highlight the new life that is being breathed into this foundational and innovative resort community. We hope you’ll enjoy this article on the exciting new developments.

Also, our favorite local poet and good friend Nola Perez reflects on life as an island girl at 80 years old. As a native who sprung from these shores and eventually landed on many others, Nola’s perspective is always uniquely insightful and moving. In another piece, you’ll read about Gus Gerbing and his enduring love of camellias—and how he put Amelia Island on the map for botanists and flower lovers. And that’s not all: read about the creative cuisine and libations at BarZin; a trip by trolley through the downtown with Amelia Island Trolleys; and much more.

See you around the island!

6 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

Contributing Photographers Holly Allain, Pam Bell, Elizabeth Wilkes, David Burghardt, Lynne Taylor, Katrin Bell, William Raser

C O N TA C T U S Sweetpea Media, Inc. P.O. Box 16624 Fernandina Beach, Fl 32035 904-277-8012 Fax 904-277-8076 islander@ameliaislander.com www.ameliaislander.com Amelia Islander Magazine is published monthly (11 times a year - January and February is a combined issue.) All editorial contents including maps and photographs are Copyrighted 2012 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.

www.AmeliaIslander.com

features

JUNE2012 13 Cover Story RESORT RENAISSANCE

In late 2010, Omni Hotels & Resorts bought the resort at Amelia Island Plantation and started a new course in the story of Amelia Island’s unique resort destination.

29 Island Girls at 80

35 Amelia’s Camellias

43 Island Home

64 Backyard Adventure

A native of Amelia and a well-known poet, Nola Perez reflects on what it means to be an “island girl” as she and good friend, Cindy McLauchlan, turn 80.

A self-taught horticulturalist, Gus Gerbing propagated hundreds of camellias and azaleas on his 15-acre property in Amelia City.

With a unique house layout adapted to their needs, the home of Marcia and Al Pertuz is wonderfully matched to a scenic coastal lot in Oyster Bay Harbour.

A narrated tour of the historic downtown with Amelia Island Trolleys is a fun way to journey through Amelia Island’s rich history.

Amelia

ISLANDER JUNE 2012 • VOLUME 25 • NUMBER 5

7 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

JUNE2011

inside 20

ABOUT THE COVER

27

41

20

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

22

Galleries & Antiques Amelia’s art galleries & antique stores

24

In the Neighborhood Profiles of area businesses and organizations

27

Beach Combing Great shopping on Amelia Island

30

Maps of the Island and downtown, with telephone numbers

31

Tide Table Tides at the Amelia River

33

Around Town What’s happening around Amelia Island

36

Snapshots Islanders out and about

41

In the Garden Sweet mock orange, pomegranate, and other shrubs are great new additions to Amelia Island gardens.

48

Eating Scene BarZin Bistro Wine Bar offers creative American cuisine, great wines, local brews, and even Saki martinis—all in a relaxed and upbeat atmosphere under the shady trees of Palmetto Walk..

A rendering of the new pool area at Omni Amelia Island Plantation.

Courtesy of Omni Amelia Island Plantation

55

Open House Premium real estate offerings on and around Amelia Island

Amelia

ISLANDER JUNE 2012 • VOLUME 25 • NUMBER 5

8 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

48

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Let us find a beach where the world disappears.

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Let us find tide pools on horseback.

Let us stoke the fire for one more s’more.

Let us turn a taste of the good life into a memory of a lifetime.

Discover With You—The ideal package to create fond memories for the entire family includes breakfast and a daily resort credit. For reservations, please contact your travel professional, call The Ritz-Carlton at 800-241-3333 or visit ritzcarlton.com/ameliaisland.

*Rates may vary over select dates, and are valid per room/per night, based on single or double occupancy, exclusive of taxes, gratuities, fees and other charges; do not apply to groups; and cannot be combined with any other offer. Advanced reservations are required. Offer valid through December 30, 2012, subject to availability. Credit applied per night, may not be applied toward room rate, has no cash value and must be used during the dates of the reservation. Experiences vary by 9 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012 www.AmeliaIslander.com hotel. ©2012 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

14 Flavors 55 Toppings Unlimited Creations Open nightly until 10 p.m.

Friday and Saturday nights until 11 p.m.

306 Centre Street, Fernandina Beach, FL

Serving Nassau County for 23 years!

Check out our Website at www.nassaupt.com and Like us on Facebook.

1885 S. 14th Street Fernandina Beach 904-277-4449

45390 Green Street Callahan 904-879-1223

SPECIAL TRUNK SHOW EVENT JUNE 22-23

GEAR FOR THE TEAM, ATHLETE, & FAN GATEWAY TO AMELIA Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 (904) 261-1105

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LOSE WEIGHT and look great for

Summer!

Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach • www.robisonjewelry.com • 904.261.3635

~ CELEBRATING 60 YEARS ~ 10 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

961687 Gateway Blvd.

Suite 101J Fernandina Beach www.mwmcamelia.com 261-4318

11 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

215 Centre Street Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach 904-261-2501

Multiples • Oka b. Shoes • Spartina • Switch Flops • Thyme • Magnolia Lane

Mariposa • Corky’s • Mud Pie • Brighton • Baggallini • Comfy • Pandora Dealer

Ladie’s Apparel, Accessories, and Gifts with a Twist!!!

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Monogramming service available

MONTEGO

SUN GALLERY VISION CENTER

& S UN GLAS SE S Ray Ban, Oakley, Costa, Electric, Spy, Prada, Versace, and many more.

Offering Amelia Island’s largest and best selection of eyewear frames for all your vision needs.

Let us fill your EYEWEAR PRESCRIPTION and SAVE up to 30%.

Over 1000 fames in stock!

904-261-5955 Visit PicDizzle.com

Discover truly independent financial advice. Advice not bound by someone else’s objectives but designed to help meet your needs. Including: • Financial Planning • Investment Management • Life Insurance • Long Term Care Insurance

www.financialamelia.com

LIMOUSINE SERVICE

Driven to be there for you.

904.583.7337

Nicola Nichol, CFA

www.montegolimo.com

nichol_nicola@nlvmail.com (904) 305-2608 2338 South 8th St. Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

phil@montegolimo.com

More than just a ride, Montego Limousine is committed to value and first class service. Try us and experience the difference.

We are the preferred choice for: JAX Airport • Mayo Clinic • Local Island Service • Night out 12 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

Nicola Nichol is a Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative of Equity Services, Inc. Securities and investment advisory services are offered solely by Equity Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC, 7077 Bonneval Road, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32216.

Financial Strategies of Amelia is independent of Equity Services, Inc. TC63931(0811)

www.AmeliaIslander.com

The Omni Re-Imagination will include an enhanced arrival experience showcasing ocean views overlooking an infinity edge pool through floor-to-ceiling windows.

Resort Renaissance With major renovations underway, Omni Amelia Island Plantation builds on the Plantation’s unique assets and charts a new course to success.

BY KAREN MILLER • IMAGES COURTESY OF OMNI AMELIA ISLAND PLANTATION

R

habitat and the existing natural environment, including animal ecognizing its singularly beautiful setting and impressive life and plant ecology on this fragile barrier island in Northeast array of amenities, Omni Hotels & Resorts purchased Florida. The result was a master plan to protect tidal marshes and the Amelia Island Plantation resort in 2010 and conserve oceanfront dunes, grassland, and savannahs. Included immediately embarked upon a plan to update its structures, in the plan were such things as an unprecedented 40-foot-wide amenities, and services, while preserving the resort’s signature strip of natural vegetation, added as natural beauty. a buffer to all waterways, allowing Meticulously preserved since them to remain wildlife refuges, 1971, the Amelia Island Plantation travel corridors, and food sources. set the standard for real estate In order to protect these development in harmony with standards, covenants were also put nature. Decades ahead of their time, into place, which the resort company the master developers of this coastal and property owners were required paradise included Renaissance man to adhere to in order to build and Charles Fraser and the Sea Pines live within this magnificent setting.

Company of Hilton Head, SC, and Each building, courtyard, terrace, Ian McHarg of the firm Wallace, or boardwalk was placed with the McHarg, Roberts and Todd.

Together they set upon a mission to Omni’s re-imagined lobby will feature an oceanview bar and natural environment in mind, making sure that each structure was find the optimum fit between man’s restaurant in an upscale setting.

13 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

The view of the ninth hole of Oak Marsh from the new Marsh View Bar & Grill, which offers southerninspired, casual fare with vistas of the marsh, Intracoastal Waterway, and the Oak Marsh Golf Course.

set carefully within the natural setting rather than distracting from it. The philosophy that each entity on the resort “embraces its site and becomes one with it” is still the mission, and this is the reason why Amelia Island Plantation has remained the pristine environment it is.

With the downturn of the economy in 2008, however, Amelia Island Plantation was hit hard, filing for bankruptcy in 2009, after the resort had suffered a significant negative cash flow for over a year. In 2010, Omni Hotels and Resorts purchased the Plantation for $67 million dollars, acquiring the property without any additional debt.

Just as Fraser’s Amelia Island Plantation’s community was considered revolutionary, the Omni Hotel brand is similarly forward-thinking in its approach to resort travel and living, striving to provide authentic experiences in distinctive locations. For example, they were the first major hotel group to offer a frequent travel program with consumer benefits. They also specialize in acquiring “legacy properties,” that is, resort communities with colorful and significant historic pasts, which are very attractive to their guests.

Other popular Omni properties include Omni Nashville Hotel in TN, Omni Bedford Springs Resort and Spa in PA, and Omni Mt. Washington Resort in NH, along with dozens of others in North America and Mexico. The company prides itself on its vision of being a global, four-diamond hotel company offering consistent products and services in key business and leisure destinations. They are known for their innovation, exemplary hospitality, and superior amenities, including unique guest services, outstanding culinary experiences, and a commitment to environmental preservation.

Omni’s master plan to improve the Amelia Island Plantation began with simple steps to improve the resort.

At first, immediate upkeep began, which entailed cleaning, maintenance, some re-staffing, and improvement of service levels. Full stocking of the shelves at the resort’s Spa & Shops was an important upgrade. In a short period of time, visitors and staff members could see that Omni was bringing life back into the Plantation. A $5 million beach re-nourishment had the seashore resort sparkling once again.

Yet, more than this, the key to Omni’s success in business is in its ability to see clearly into the future of the Plantation.

Omni recognized that the resort had unparalleled potential as a spectacular travel destination, but it didn’t have enough rooms to accommodate larger groups for weddings, conferences, and retreats. Beginning a new chapter in its nearly 40-year heritage, the Omni Amelia Island Plantation undertook an extensive $85 million Re-Imagination project that is due to be completed in March of 2013. The renovations include an additional 20,000 square feet of conference center space, 155 new guest rooms and suites, an expanded beach club with a two-tiered poolscape, a new lobby and arrival experience, a wider variety of food and beverage venues, and improved connectivity and parking. Because Omni is so hospitalityoriented, its intention is to provide everything that both large and small groups would need, whether traveling to Amelia Island for a wedding, a vacation, or a business seminar.

Award-Winning Golf Reinforcing its reputation as a well-known golf destination, Omni Amelia Island Plantation was recently named as one of Conde Nast Traveler’s Top 121 Golf Resorts in the world.

Appearing in the April 2012 issue of the publication, the sixteenth annual readers’ poll ranked the resort in the Top 20

The green and fairway of the ninth hole at Oak Marsh Golf Course.

Fifty-four holes of golf meander through Spanish moss-covered oaks and along the ocean and marsh.

14 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Open to the public, the guided Segway tours at Amelia Wheel’s travel along the ocean, marsh and through the 1,350-acre resort community.

Florida Golf Resorts, based on eight criteria: course design and access; golf staff and services; accommodations quality; service; food and dining; location; overall resort design; and activities.

With 54 holes of championship golf, the resort’s three courses boast the most seaside holes in all of Florida. Designed by Pete Dye, Bobby Weed, and Tom Fazio, the course greens and fairways are carefully placed along Spanish moss-covered oaks, lush marshes, and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean.

The golf shop has undergone major renovations, which now include the new Marsh View Bar & Grill, which features innovative food and beverage offerings and a 5,000-square-foot deck with unparalleled sunset views over the Intracoastal Waterway.

Cliff Drysdale Ultimate Tennis

history, and I look forward to enhancing the already stellar reputation as a top tennis destination.” Indeed, the Omni Amelia Island Plantation’s Racquet Park has hosted tennis legends like the Williams sisters, Andre Agassi, Chris Evert, and Maria Sharapova. The facility boasts 23 fast-dry clay courts, three of which are lighted for night play.

New Look for the Hotel When completed in the Spring of 2013, Omni’s new vision of hotel luxury will include 155 additional ocean-front rooms and suites just steps away from the Atlantic ocean. Also part of their re-imagination is a contemporary lobby with floor-toceiling ocean landscapes, quicker and easier check-in for both hotel guests and villa guests from the resort’s sister property, The Villas of Amelia Island Plantation, along with a relaxing bar and outdoor deck. The real jewel of this expansive resort reimagination is a custom infinity-edge adult pool—adjacent to the lobby area—which will cascade down to the splash-friendly family pool. The pool areas will be flanked by two nearby hot tubs, a poolside bar, and expanded new dining options—all designed to maximize the ocean views.

The Omni Plantation’s newly-branded tennis school, Cliff Drysdale Tennis, welcomed Scott Colebourne as the new director of tennis at the resort this spring. Colebourne was nationally ranked in the top five for collegiate tennis players in New Zealand, eventually playing at the All-American level at Vincennes University in Indiana. Most recently, Colebourne hails from Stratton Mountain Resort in Vermont, where he has led the resort’s Drysdale Tennis School since 2009.

Under his direction, the Vermont resort was propelled to a top ranking with Tennis Magazine’s “Top Tennis Resorts.” “The Omni Amelia Island Plantation is proud to welcome Scott Colebourne,” says Paul Eckert, general manager of the resort. “This addition is an exciting enhancement to our tennis program, and we’re thrilled to offer our guests the level of excellence they have come to expect.”

“I am very excited about the opportunities ahead of me at the resort,” says Colebourne. The new pool area will feature 43,000 square feet of space for sun-seekers to lounge on, including an adult “It has a long, rich tennis infinity-edge pool, a splash-friendly family pool, and two hot tubs adjacent to the new Oceanside Bar & Grill.

15 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Marché Burette is one of the unique shops located at The Spa & Shops at Omni Amelia Island Plantation.

Burette and Verandah restaurants are open to the public, as well Fortunately, you don’t have to be a visitor or a resident of as PLaE restaurant, and the resort’s night spot, the Falcon’s Nest, the Omni Amelia Island Plantation to take advantage of much which features a brand new “Build Your Own Burger” menu. In that Omni has to offer. The Spa & Salon offers a full-service spa addition, The Nature Center has a multitude of activities open experience that includes men’s and women’s massages, facials, to the public. Amelia Island Nature Programs are offered daily and steam showers, along with the relaxation area and garden, for people of all ages and and even herbal teas and interests, allowing visitors organic citrus waters. to explore the natural The salon offers haircuts, beauty of the island. They hairstyling, make-up include bike and kayak application, bridal tours, shell and shark party appointments, tooth hunts, nature crafts, manicures, pedicures, birding, and wildflower and child and teen tours and more. services. Yoga classes are Since The Spa & available through the spa Shops are open daily, as well, hosted in the spa there are always special tree house. events going on. Their The Shops boutiques, Friday night “Boardwalk art galleries, and gourmet Bash” has been a smash food establishments offer hit for several years, something for everyone in and around Amelia Island. The Spa & Salon offers nature inspired treatments for guests and locals alike in a offering live music, food, and libations.

The Plantation’s Marché relaxing, full-service luxury spa.

16 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Fresh Produce • Cut Loose Click • CMC • Tommy Bahama Neon Buddha • Pure Handknit

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Give yourself the gift of freedom. Freedom to relax; freedom to spend time with friends and family; freedom to concentrate on what is meaningful to you.

Let the professionals from Maid Corps clean your home.

Call today for your no obligation, personalized quote.

Learn more about our products, services, and specials by calling or visiting us on the web.

(904) 371-7867 • www.TheMaidCorps.com 17 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Rated a “Top 50 Tennis Resort in U.S.” by Tennis Magazine, Racquet Park offers instruction by Cliff Drysdale Tennis.

Every Thursday, Marché Burette features a Low Country Boil. And seasonally, no one does it up better than the Omni Amelia Island Plantation. Visitors can celebrate Christmas and ring in the New Year with a variety of seasonal festivities.

Families can enjoy cooking or model boat demonstrations, ride in a horse drawn carriage, or take part in a candlelight and carol service at the Plantation Chapel on Christmas Eve. Other seasonal goingson include special events for Valentine’s Day, Easter, and Mother’s Day, along with football and fun activities for Georgia Bulldog and Florida Gator football fans.

As one of Florida’s award-winning island destinations, Omni Amelia Island Plantation is recognized for offering a luxury resort experience in perfect harmony with nature, along with a variety of recreational activities for visitors New grand entrance and porte cochere to the re-imagined Omni Amelia Island Plantation young and old. And Omni is quick to acknowledge what a fabulous partner it has welcoming guests for the next forty years, and beyond. as its host island. Rich in history, Amelia Island is well known Although the expansion and re-imagination is expected to be for its beautiful beaches, native wildlife, pristine marshes, and completed in less than a year, Omni continues to search out new scenic waterways, and it has long been a beloved destination ways to make travel to Amelia Island an even more delightful for generations of visitors. Since the Plantation was acquired experience. To keep up with renovations, visit their website and

by Omni in late 2010, the oceanfront resort has laid claim to watch their progress at www.omnihotels.com/FindAHotel/ several awards, including AAA Four Diamond status and the AmeliaIsland.aspx. Indeed, locals and visitors are watching Regional Award for Excellence in Economic Development & with great anticipation as Omni extends and preserves the rich Tourism by the Northeast Florida Regional Council. legacy of resort living on Amelia Island.

The new Omni Amelia Island Plantation anticipates 18 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Imported from Detroit.

Distributed in Yulee.

SPRING/SUMMER 2012 TOURS Cumberland Island Tour ~ 10:30 a.m. (2 hour tour) Beach Creek Tour ~ 2:30 p.m. (1 ½ hour tour) Cumberland Sound Tour ~ 5:00 p.m. (1 ½ hour tour) Traditional Family Sunset Tour ~ (1 hour tour) – Departure times varies seasonally Sunset/Twilight Tour ~ (2 hour tour) – BYOB; live local entertainment Departure times varies seasonally Fri & Sat evs’ Spring and Fall; Mon-Sat (Summer) Interactive, Family-Friendly Eco-Tours ~ Mid-March – May ~ Th-Sat (10 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. for 2 hrs) June – Aug ~ Mon-Sat (10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. for 2 hours) September through Thanksgiving – Th-Sat (10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. for 2 hours)

Business has been very good thanks to our new and repeat customers.

Come see us soon!

For detailed pricing or to book online, visit:

AmeliaRiverCruises.com or call:

904-261-9972

Come Stay at the Beach

South Sea Cultured Pearls, Citrines and Diamonds...

a combination of unrivaled beauty.

• 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

Repairs • Appraisals • GIA Graduate Gemologist (904) 277-4910

Toll Free (877) 263-5428

Sadler Crossing • 1472 Sadler Road

RESERVATIONS ONLINE at www.AmeliaHotel.com

Mon. - Fri. 9am - 6pm www.crawfordjewelers.net

(next to Starbucks)

Since 1957

19 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

everything Amelia P E OP LE ,

TRAVELSHARK HONORS OLIVIA HOBLIT OF ELIZABETH POINTE LODGE Olivia Hoblit, general manager of Elizabeth Pointe Lodge, recently received a Sharky Award from TravelShark for Best Guest Service.

TravelShark is the world’s largest online travel network, with thousands of location-based travel websites for destinations around the globe.

The Sharky Awards honor unique and unexpected finds in the travel industry.

“We singled out the Elizabeth Pointe Lodge for their personalized service and hands-on guest care,” states the announcement. “Since Olivia and her team go to such great lengths to see that all guest needs are met, Olivia won the award for Best Guest Service.”

Owners Susan and David Caples reinforce the praise. “Olivia’s professionalism and commitment is taken on by each and every one of her team members,” says David Caples.

“Daily, our guests tell us that the attention to detail that Olivia brings to every facet of their stay is outstanding.

In her view, each guest is very special.

We are very proud her!”

A recipient of the 2011 Conde Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Award, Elizabeth Pointe Lodge is a luxurious oceanfront hotel located at 98 S. Fletcher Ave. For more information, call (904) 277-4851.

P LA CE S,

HI STO RY

&

M O R E

ADULT READING PROGRAM DEBUTS THIS SUMMER AT THE FERNANDINA BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY The Fernandina Beach Public Library is launching a new reading program called “Between the Covers,” which is tailored to adults’ busy lives. From June 11 to August 13, adults can read a book of their choosing or choose from a list provided, and then write short one- or two-sentence reviews that will be turned in to the library each week to be registered for weekly drawings. Each week, one reader will win a prize and have his or her name posted on the website. Prizes include an iPad2, a Kindle, gift certificates to area stores and restaurants, and more. The prizes will be awarded at the grand finale program, which will include a dinner and a critique of a movie that has been made from a book.

“Many of our adult library members bring their children to our children’s summer reading program,” explains Library Director Dawn Bostwick. “This new program will give adults a fun way to participate, too—and I hope we will attract new members as well.” For more information or to register online, go to www.nassaureads.com and click on “Adult Summer Reading.”

“DIVAS’ DAY OUT” TO BENEFIT RETT SYNDROME RESEARCH Ladies of all ages are invited to “Divas’ Day Out,” a benefit for the Amelia Island non-profit Girl Power 2 Cure, on Saturday, June 9 at the Atlantic Rec Center, 2500 Atlantic Ave., from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. With 30 vendor booths, demos on stage throughout the day, and lots of raffles and freebies, this entertaining and informative day is a fun way to help in the effort to find a cure for Rett Syndrome, a debilitating neurological disorder that strikes young girls and stays with them for life. It is a sad condition, but there is hope!

It is the first neurological disorder ever proven to be reversible.

The program includes an “Ask the OB/GYN” session with Baptist Obstetrics and Gynecology’s Andrew Halperin; fashion shows by Elizabeth Trading Co. and Retail Therapy Consignment; women’s self-defense by Atlantic Warriors; Zumba, Body Pump, and Body Flow workouts; as well as merchandise and information about jewelry, makeup, cooking, and much more. Entry is $3 per person; children 6 and under get in free. For more information, go to www.mamamelia.com or send an email to info@mamamelia.com.

20 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

AMELIA ISLAND ANTIQUES 5210 First Coast Hwy • 321-1314

GALLERIES

a n t& iques

AMELIA SANJON GALLERY 218A Ash St. • 557-1195 BLUE DOOR ARTISTS 205 1⁄2 Centre St. • 491-7733

SHARON BADENOCH CASABLANCA 2188 Sadler Road • 415-1540 D’AGNESE CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY 205 1/2 Centre St. • 261-6044 or 556-2014 EILEEN’S ART & ANTIQUES CENTRE 702 Centre St. • 277-2717 FIRST COAST COMMUNITY BANK GALLERY 1750 South 14th St., 2nd floor • 277-5290 GALLERY C 218-B Ash Street • 583-4676

B

orn in LaSalle, IL, Sharon Badenoch moved to Amelia Island in 1991 with her husband, Jim, and found a community of kindred spirits, including fellow artists and active, engaged friends.

“What’s not to like about Amelia?” says Badenoch. “It’s a friendly small town that is definitely not your typical retirement village.” An important part of that community is the cooperative gallery and studio known as Blue Door Artists, which Badenoch joined in 2006.

Over the past forty years, Badenoch has attended evening college art classes, as well as many workshops. “My style leans toward Impressionism, especially in my landscapes and seashore scenes, but I also love to paint in a more realistic style, especially in my paintings of animals.

Badenoch began as a watercolor painter, but now enjoys painting in oils and acrylics as well. She also enjoys piano, singing, acting, and golf.

The painting shown above, called “Mystique Marsh #1,” is an acrylic on canvas, at 24” by 24”. “I’ve enjoyed

experimenting with watercolor technique when working in acrylic, allowing for those “happy accidents” that can turn out beautifully as the water runs onto the paper,” says Badenoch. “I also love to build the canvas with gesso, using a palette knife for a textured effect.”

For this painting, the background was taken from a scene on the 15th hole of the Amelia River Golf Club.

Badenoch starts with a photo and then sketches the scene on the canvas, enhancing the trees and design to make it work and flow. “After a while I put the picture away and use my imagination to finish the work,” she says.

When asked about the painting process, she explains: “First, I see a scene that catches my eye. The color is the first to grab my attention, then the shapes and the subject. My imagination does the rest. I am always striving for a loose, relaxing, free effect.” To see this work, as well as those of other Blue Door Artists, visit the gallery at 205 ½ Centre Street or call (904) 556-1195.

22 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

HUNT’S ART & ARTIFACT GALLERY 361 Centre St. • 261-8225 ISLAND ART ASSOCIATION COOPERATIVE GALLERY 18 North 2nd St. • 261-7020 LA TORRE’S GALLERY & GIFTS 206 Centre Street • 261-0444 MEAD’S FRAMERY & TROPHY Corner of A1A & Hwy 17 • 225-2195 THE PLANTATION SHOP 4828 First Coast Hwy • 261-2030 TRAILER PARK COLLECTIBLES 702 Centre Street • 491-4461 TRISH’S SLIGHTLY OFF CENTRE 218C Ash St. • 277-1147 WATERWHEEL GALLERY 819 South 8th Street • 261-2535

www.AmeliaIslander.com

galleries & antiques

[ ] blue

Art Workshops

by Nationally Recognized Artists

door artists

SEPTEMBER Pat Weaver â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Watercolor Workshop

gallery & working studios

NOVEMBER Jane Angelhart â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Watercolor Portraits Nicholas Simmons â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Watercolor Daryl Urrig â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Oil/Acrylic

205 1/2 centre street downtown fernandina beach 904.491.7733 www.bluedoorartists.com

Call 904-491-8040 to register.

MAU MAURER URER F I N E A R T Small acrylic study by Kathleen Maurer.

Manyy Originals g â&#x20AC;˘ Local Images g â&#x20AC;˘ Commissions â&#x20AC;˘ Workshops p

(904) 261-8276 â&#x20AC;˘ MaurerFineArt.com

n o J n a S

Amelia

Gallery

F I N E A RT 5210 First Coast Highway

218A Ash Street Mon-Sat 10:30-5 Sun 10-4 or by appointment 904-491-8040 â&#x20AC;˘ 904-557-1195

MEADâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

(Between Harris Teeter & Amelia Island Plantation)

321-1314

hours mon.- sat. 10 - 5; sun. 1- 5

FRAMERY & TROPHY STORE

COMPLETE CUSTOM FRAMING AT AFFORDABLE PRICES Custom Framing since 1970 18 North 2nd Street

100â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of framed and unframed prints Member of Professional Picture Framers Association

Voted â&#x20AC;&#x153;Best of the Best Galleryâ&#x20AC;? 2011 A co-op of 50 local artists show their paintings, pottery, jewelry, glass art, ďŹ ber art and more in our newly renovated gallery.

225-2195 Corner of A1A & Hwy 17 â&#x20AC;˘ Yulee

A1A

HWY 17

Awards For All Occasions N

Elizabeth Wilkes

PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEO & STILL IMAGING

Our Mosaic project is Âżnished! It is a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Must Seeâ&#x20AC;? while visiting downtown. Over 100 volunteers donated their time and materials to complete this stunning addition to 18 North 2nd St.

www.islandart.org 904-261-7020

Be Our Guest! :WLJPHS YH[L MVY (TLSPH 0ZSHUK N\LZ[Z

OVSLZ JHY[

www.elizabethwilkesphotography.com 904.206.2203 â&#x20AC;˘ Fernandina Beach, FL

>LLRKH` Â&#x2039; >LLRLUK

*S\IOV\ZL ZLY]PUN )YLHRMHZ[ 3\UJO +HPS` 904.277.7370 â&#x20AC;˘ fernandinabeachgolfclub.com

23 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ JUNE 2012

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in the neighborhood

L

Laura Lott Harris and Jack E. Lott

V

yStar Credit Union celebrated its 60th anniversary this year, with the Fernandina Beach branch celebrating its ninth year.

Their mission is to serve the financial needs of their members by providing quality services while at the same time maintaining fiscal soundness, which has become more important in recent economic times. “Members, not customers,” says Shannon Brown, vice president of VyStar Credit Union’s Fernandina Beach branch. “Being a member of a credit union involves a different philosophy, and each member has a voice to be heard, no matter the amount in your account.” The credit union movement has seen a surge in membership, and Brown has watched the Nassau County numbers swell to over 20,000 since she came to help open the new branch back in January, 2003.

Nassau County is represented on VyStar’s Board of Directors

by Larry Myers, who has served as a volunteer board member for over thirty years. “Our local staff is always available, friendly, and looking for ways to live the philosophy of offering competitive pricing, giving members high-yielding savings products, low loan rates, and low-or no-fee financial services,” says Myers.

“This commitment makes finding affordable, quality financial products and services a reality for our members.”

“I love the business of lending,” says Brown, “especially when we see dreams come true for members, whether they are first-time auto buyers, folks rebuilding credit after a rough time, or people refinancing their home.” For more information, stop by the branch at 1900 S. 14th Street, or call (904) 261-4202.

PHOTOS BY WILLIAM RASER

Lott’s Furniture

aura Lott Harris grew up in the furniture business, working during her high school and college years at her father’s store, Lott’s Furniture in Waycross, GA. As family traditions run deep, Lott Harris soon craved the sense of purpose in running one’s own business. When she mentioned this to her father, he suggested opening a store on Amelia. Since 2008, she has been running the store on Amelia, and, in just three short years, she has already expanded their retail space to meet the needs of their customers.

“We pride ourselves on great customer service and a fabulous merchandise selection, including some really unique items that you’re not able to find anywhere else!” says Lott Harris. “We try to have a great variety so that you can always find what you are looking for.” In fact, the store expanded last year to include a Comfort Zone, with over 50 La-Z-Boy recliners and over 30 mattress sets, as well as an eclectic mix of furniture and an outdoor furniture gallery.

The family-owned furniture store also offers flooring and window treatments, and can even provide a decorator who is available for complimentary design consultation. The staff’s experience and enthusiasm are what sets Lott’s Furniture apart from other stores. “We can take a condo or house from empty to a beautiful, finished product!” says Lott Harris. To learn more, stop by the store at 1112 S. 14th Street, call (904) 261-6333, or visit www.lottsfurniture.com.

Vystar Credit Union

24 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

Vice President Shannon Brown www.AmeliaIslander.com

Unique Antique Smalls • Home Accessories & Gifts Outdoor & Upholstered Furniture

An Island Tradition for 34 Years!

(904) 261-2030

www.theplantationshop.com

OPEN FOR LUNCH Tue – Fri 10am – 3pm DINNER Wed – Sat 6 – 9pm

321-2430

Stonewall Kitchen Two’s Company • Caspari Nielsen-Massey Vanillas

904.261.0940

SUMMER SALES

lunch ~ tues - sat 11:30 - 2 lunch/brunch ~ sun 11:30 - 2 happy hour ~ tues - sat 4 - 6 dinner ~ tues - sat 5:30 - 10

Clothing - Jewelry - Accessories Shoes - Handbags - Gifts

select wines / craft beers local artisan cheeses & charcuterie saketini’s / american bistro cuisine alfresco dining / private dining 4924 ½rst coast hwy 904.310.6620 www.barzin-bistro-winebar.com palmetto walk shopping village

904.310.9351 Mon-Sat 10-5 • Sun 11-5

4 9 2 4 F I R S T C O A S T H I G H WA Y ~ A M E L I A I S L A N D

English and French Antiques

PALMETTO WALK

SHOPPING VILLAGE

New Summer Arrivals!

Pin Point Amelia Things Thi ngs to to see, see, d do do, o, an and nd d eex experience peri pe per rienc ience ce oon ce n Amel A Am Amelia me ia a Isla IIsland. sl sla la and. and nd.

THE

TRAVEL

MENTION THIS AD FOR $1 OFF

AGENCY

Watch for information on our Second Annual Photo and First Annual Video contests on our blogsite www.the-travel-agents.com.

While you are there, be sure to subscribe to get all the updates!

SEGWAYS WEEK LONG HORSEMANSHIP CAMPS STARTING JUNE 25 Riding lessons Boarding Horse camps Birthday parties Party Barn available for rent

Florida Park Service Trails Shade to Shore!

Fun tours: Ages 13+ s WWW %CO-OTION4OURS COM

904-322-9739 stayncountryranch@yahoo.com

Amelia Angler OutďŹ tters

iPadAmelia

We do not sell travel.

We advise SAVVY TRAVELERS! MEMBER VIRTUOSO

1401 Park Avenue, Suite A Amelia Island, FL 32034 904-261-5914 www.the-travel-agents.com

So you have an iPad? Thinking about an iPad?

Want to learn more? Need

help?

Meet Professor iPad. Classes starting soon.

Captain Terry Lacoss Director Since 1978

Group & Individual fishing, sailing, sightseeing charters 111 Centre St. â&#x20AC;˘ (904) 261-2870 â&#x20AC;˘ www.ameliaangler.com

The Dome

18 Hole Miniature Golf Course

Introductory sessions Mondays at 6 PM

Video Game Room

5024 First Coast Highway Reservation requested.

Snack Bar

For more information contact info@iPadAmelia.com

Birthday Party Room

For more information about things to see and do, contact Coastal Connections at aicoastalconnections@gmail.com.

RICHARD SASSER ARCHITECT 904.277.1230

1550 Sadler Road

(across from K-mart)

261-7881 â&#x20AC;˘ www.islandfallsgolf.com

Your Classic Rock â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;n Roll Station!

Commercial ~ Institutional Residential ~ Historic Preservation UF Graduate Historic Preservation Specialist Since 1993 Visit www.wras.com.

MY FM

WSIZ â&#x20AC;˘ WAYX Brantley County HS and Georgia Southern football THIS FALL! New 15,000 square-foot Goodwill Thrift Store, Memorial Drive, Waycross (under construction).

26 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ JUNE 2012

Fitzgerald 102.3 Douglas 99.9 Waycross 96.3

Listen online at WAYX.com! www.AmeliaIslander.com

beach combing

Summer Essentials Jump into summer with all the essentials from Lemongrass, located at 114 Centre St., (904) 310-6718, like BedStu’s pair of classic Hurachas ($78); TOMS shades ($119 to 139); Greenpacha’s handwoven hat ($65); WeeWood Watches ($120); Cowboysbag wallet from the Netherlands ($110); and more!

Coastal Creations The Mermaid Collection by Spartina449 has arrived at Twisted Sisters!, located at 215 Centre Street in historic downtown Fernandina Beach, (904) 261-2501 Handbags and accessories made of heavy linen and leather and designed on the South Carolina coast of Daufuskie Island! In a variety of patterns, prices range from $14 to $180.

Eye on Fashion Coastal Vision, 6 S. 14th Street, (904) 261-5741, specializes in quality eyewear and service, featuring name brands such as Fendi, Costa, Vera Bradley, and these Tom Ford sunglasses, priced $75 and up. Stylish eyewear accessories also available.

27 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

Surf Fashion Pipeline Surf Shop offers 3,000 square feet of showroom space and an amazing array of surf fashion for men, women, and children, like this O’Neill Smoked Pearl dress, designed in honor of their 60th anniversary ($64). Located at 2022 First Ave, at Sadler Rd., (904) 277-3717, and online at www.pipelinesurfshop.com. www.AmeliaIslander.com

find your style.

L @ = : M L L = J > D Q C F G L

BIJOUX

AMELIA www.bijouxamelia.com

L @ =

And, treat yourself to a little something from Bijoux Amelia.

E G < = J F : 9 F < 9 F 9

Stop by to view our wide selection of hats, pashminas, purses, jewelry and fun accessories for the home. Find out why we're the Island's premier shop for high-fashion at prices you will simply love!

BIJOUX

AMELIA www.bijouxamelia.com

L @ = @ 9 D L = J L G H

BIJOUX

AMELIA www.bijouxamelia.com

BIJOUX

AMELIA

317 A Center Street Fernandina Beach 904-310-6086 bijouxamelia.com

Monday - Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Friday & Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Visit our website at www.bijouxamelia.com to download fun how-to cards for scarves.

L @ = K D A H C F G L

BIJOUX

AMELIA www.bijouxamelia.com

28 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Island Girls at 80

BY NOLA PEREZ • PHOTOS COURTESY OF NOLA PEREZ

W

e are island girls, Cindy McLauchlan and I. You might say we revel in being unique, in that I am a native Amelia Islander (a vanishing breed) and Cindy is Ferguson First Family of Cumberland Island. Two islands, two friends— sister islands, sister friends. Last year, Cindy and I celebrated milestone birthdays only months apart. Mine was hosted at the home of next-door neighbors, with so many friends and family in attendance that nametags were necessary. The birthday torte was inscribed: “No Candles on This Cake!” We didn’t want to start a bonfire! Cindy’s celebration, also in the presence of friends and family, was held on Cumberland at Greyfield Inn, the house in which she grew up. I was among revelers ferried by two boats to Greyfield for Cindy’s birthday fete. After a short walk to the house from the dock, a D.J. regaled us with popular music, old and new. Music unlocks the heart to memories, and memories are obligatory, but invisible guests at a birthday party.

On the wide front lawn of the house, beautiful old shade trees were draped with lights, and a sparkling ballroom globe indicated that dancing might be on the menu. After a time of greet-and-meet underneath the trees with libations and hors d’ouevres, waiters appeared, bearing huge platters of Low Country boil. Dinner went on into the cool of evening, Top left: Nola Perez on the beach of Amelia in the 1960's.

Top right: Cindy McLauchlan surrounded by her artwork on the beach at Cumberland Island in the 1970's.

and later—yes, there was dancing! One birthday girl danced the night away, and her sister celebrant (there being no coach available) caught the nine o’clock river ride home to Fernandina, leaving no glass slipper behind. The cruise home, slicing over the water in darkness, released to its revelers a sweet river smell, sending sensual undulation and cool spray our way when our captain slowed down in the wake of other vessels. The night was young, and so was I. 80 who?

Although Cumberland Island and Amelia Island, its sister to the south, gaze at each other across the sound, Cindy and I did not cross paths until later life. As a young girl growing up on Amelia, I would stand on the beach at Fort Clinch, looking toward Cumberland. It beckoned to me, my personal Bali Hai, my special island. It was the summer of 1941 when I put my feet on Cumberland Island for the very first time.

My best friend had invited me for a summer sojourn at the home of her aunt and uncle, then-caretakers of Dungeness.

My friend and I were given complete freedom to explore the island and its pristine beach. It seemed virtually deserted that summer. Caretakers and gardeners were the only persons in evidence. We girls walked to Plum Orchard and Greyfield, wandering at will in and around the estates, one of them so grand with an indoor swimming pool in which we swam in solitary splendor. In the hall of one of the mansions, I lingered long in front of a large, framed photograph of a woman. She stood on the beach wrapped only in a towel, seeming to me continued on page 61.

29 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

30 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

S AV V Y

3 SUN 4 MON 5 TUE 6 WED 7 THU 8 FRI

7:10 AM 7:21 PM 9 SAT 8:04 AM 8:21 PM 10 SUN 8:58 AM 9:22 PM 9:50 AM 10:22 PM 12 TUE 10:40 AM 11:19 PM 13 WED 11:28 AM

New Moon First Quarter Full Moon

15 FRI 16 SAT 17 SUN 18 MON 19 TUE 20 WED 21 THU

12:51 AM 1:14 PM

22 FRI

1:42 AM 2:07 PM

23 SAT

2:31 AM 3:00 PM

24 SUN

3:20 AM 3:53 PM

25 MON

4:11 AM 4:46 PM

26 TUES

5:02 AM 5:38 PM

27 WED

6:28 AM 6:34 PM 7:10 AM 7:25 PM 7:56 AM 8:21 PM 8:48 AM 9:24 PM 9:43 AM 10:27 PM

Low 10:40 AM 11:30 PM

29 FRI 30 SAT

11:39 AM 12:32 AM 12:38 PM

High 4:08 AM 4:57 PM 5:10 AM 6:01 PM 6:15 AM 7:05 PM

Cheap Chic

12:06 AM 12:33 PM

Celebrating 20+

12:48 AM 1:17 PM 1:31 AM 2:05 PM 2:18 AM 2:57 PM 3:10 AM 3:54 PM

On the first of the month, the sun rises at 6:23 a.m. DST and sets at 8:23 p.m. DST. On the last day of the month, the sun rises at 6:26 a.m. DST and sets at 8:32 p.m. DST. Daylight hours increase an average of 0.2 minutes per day.

Years serving

JUNE Weather Avg. High 87 degrees Avg. Low 72 degrees Avg. Precip 5.30 inches

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.

Amelia Island and 2010’s BEST OF THE BEST Consignment Shop

Hours: 10-5:30 Mon-Fri • 10-5 Sat 904-277-4430 1853 South 8th Street www.fifisameliaisland.com Fifis.Amelia

ResaleRocks

A Proud Member of

S AV V Y

S H O P P I N G

Doing nothing is an activity.

Sean McCarthy’s new CD,

A BAD DAY OF FISHIN’

With all the things you could do here.

This one might be the best.

But here on Amelia Island, couples rediscover each other on an island ripe with history and Victorian charm, and where the South comes to loosen its collar for seaside living. Come unwind in this place that Time decided to pass gently by, and find yourself slowed to its carriage-drawn pace.

summerbeach.com • ..

o c e a n f r o n t va c at i o n s

• weddings

• g o l f • c o r p o r at e e v e n t s

31 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

Available locally at Amelia Bait & Tackle • Café Karibo Amelia River Cruises Also available on iTunes and Amazon.com Check us out on Facebook and YouTube Email: capt.spmc@gmail.com Don’t forget our “Bad Day of Fishin’” T-shirts!

www.AmeliaIslander.com

S H O E S

Last Quarter

Day 28 THU

M I S S Y

11 MON

High 5:53 AM 6:28 PM 6:43 AM 7:15 PM 7:31 AM 8:00 PM 8:16 AM 8:43 PM 9:01 AM 9:26 PM 9:44 AM 10:07 PM 10:26 AM 10:47 PM 11:09 AM 11:26 PM 11:51 AM

D E S I G N E R

2 SAT

6:39 AM 7:22 PM 7:39 AM 8:20 PM 8:37 AM 9:17 PM 9:34 AM 10:12 PM 10:30 AM 11:06 PM 11:26 AM 11:59 PM 12:21 PM

Low 12:12 AM 12:14 PM 1:01 AM 1:00 PM 1:49 AM 1:44 PM 2:34 AM 2:28 PM 3:17 AM 3:11 PM 3:57 AM 3:51 PM 4:35 AM 4:30 PM 5:12 AM 5:09 PM 5:49 AM 5:50 PM

A C C E S S O R I E S

12:52 AM 1:00 PM 1:51 AM 1:57 PM 2:49 AM 2:52 PM 3:44 AM 3:47 PM 4:36 AM 4:39 PM 5:28 AM 5:32 PM 6:19 AM 6:26 PM

Day 14 THU

J E W E L R Y

1 FRI

High

W O M E N

Low

S H O P P I N G P E T I T E

Day

H A N D B A G S

JUNE 2012 TIDES AT THE AMELIA RIVER

Forever Doo Wop: A Tribute to the 50â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s & 60â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s June 9 2:30pm & 7:30pm at the Peck Center Death by Golf June 23 - 30

fltplay@peoplepc.com or 206-2607 1014 Beech St. â&#x20AC;˘ www.ameliaflt.org

AMELIA AUDIOLOGY Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Miss out on Lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Great Conversations

Patti Shelly-Lohman, Au.D. 1411 S. 14th Street, Suite F Amelia Island, FL

904-491-1515

Celebrate independence with taste.

www.AmeliaAudiology.com

ROWESVILLE COTTAGES ON SADLER (Next to Ameliaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Attic)

Casablanca

Stroll through an array of boutiques in our shopping village, dine in one of our many restaurants, relax at The Spa or be adventurous and try a Segway tour.

6 JUNE

30 JULY

4

JULY

5

/-Ă&#x160;EĂ&#x160;-* New Shipment!

Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x203A;iĂ&#x160; Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;VĂ&#x160;EĂ&#x160;Ă&#x160; +Ă&#x160;>Ă&#x152;Ă&#x160;/Â&#x2026;iĂ&#x160;-Â&#x2026;Â&#x153;ÂŤĂ&#x192;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;

Picasso and Meâ&#x20AC;? for Tea â&#x20AC;˘ 3-5pm

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

>Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2C6;LLi>Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x160; Â&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;Â?Â?iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x160;Â&#x2021;Ă&#x160;>Ă&#x160; Â&#x2C6;Â&#x201C;Â&#x201C;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x160; Ă&#x2022;vviĂ&#x152;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2021;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x17E;Â?iĂ&#x160;L>Â&#x2DC;`Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x2C6;Ă&#x160;qĂ&#x160;£äĂ&#x160;*

10am-5pm

904-415-1540

Wed-Sat

2188 SADLER ROAD â&#x20AC;˘ FERNANDINA BEACH

Family Fun at The Shops /Â&#x2026;iĂ&#x160; >âÂ&#x153;Â&#x153;LÂ&#x2C6;iĂ&#x160; >âÂ&#x153;Â&#x153;Ă&#x160;-Â&#x2026;Â&#x153;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x160;EĂ&#x160;{Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;Ă&#x160;Â&#x153;vĂ&#x160; Ă&#x2022;Â?Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x160;*>Ă&#x20AC;>`iĂ&#x160;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;Ă&#x160;ÂŁÂŁ\ÂŁxĂ&#x160; Ă&#x160; /Â&#x2026;iĂ&#x160; >Â&#x2DC;`Ă&#x192;Â&#x2026;>Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x17D;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x160; >Â&#x2DC;`Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x2021;Ă&#x160;qĂ&#x160;£äĂ&#x160;*

Shrimp Boil at The Shops

Trailer Park Collectibles

iĂ&#x20AC;Â&#x201C;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x160;VĂ&#x20AC;>LĂ&#x160;Ă&#x20AC;>ViĂ&#x192;]Ă&#x160;L>}Ă&#x160;}>Â&#x201C;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x160;>Â&#x2DC;`Ă&#x160;Â&#x2026;Ă&#x2022;Â?>Ă&#x160;Â&#x2026;Â&#x153;Â&#x153;ÂŤĂ&#x192;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;Ă&#x160;xĂ&#x160;qĂ&#x160;nĂ&#x160;* *Â&#x153;Â?Ă&#x17E;Â&#x2DC;iĂ&#x192;Â&#x2C6;>Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x160; >Â&#x2DC;ViĂ&#x160;/i>Â&#x201C;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x2021;Ă&#x160;* 6Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x160;Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x160;LÂ?Â&#x153;}Ă&#x160;>Ă&#x152;Ă&#x160; Â&#x201C;iÂ?Â&#x2C6;> Ă&#x192;Â?>Â&#x2DC;`*Â?>Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;>Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC; Â?Â&#x153;}°VÂ&#x153;Â&#x201C;Ă&#x160; Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;}Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x2022;ÂŤĂ&#x160;vÂ&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x160;Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x160;iÂ&#x2021;VÂ?Ă&#x2022;LĂ&#x160;>Ă&#x152;Ă&#x160;/Â&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;}Ă&#x192;/Â&#x153; Â&#x153; Ă&#x152; *°VÂ&#x153;Â&#x201C; Located at Omni Amelia Island Plantation 6800 First Coast Highway UĂ&#x160; Amelia Island, FL 32034 (904) 261- 6161 UĂ&#x160; omniameliaislandplantation.com

32 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ JUNE 2012

702 Centre Street 904.491.4461 Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 www.AmeliaIslander.com

around town 2012

JUNE

JUNE 1

JUNE 7 - 9, 14 - 17, 21 - 23

JUNE 16

The Historic Fernandina Business Association proudly presents Sounds on Centre, a free community concert held the first Friday of each month (March – October) in historic downtown Fernandina Beach. Taking place on Centre Street between Second and Front streets from 6 to 8pm, each free concert is another chance for friends to bring their chairs and their dancing shoes to enjoy a wide variety of local bands. For more information, call (904) 277-0717.

The Amelia Community Theatre presents Robert Harling’s “Steel Magnolias,” a comedy directed by Jennifer Webber. Six of Truvy’s regulars gather in her small-town beauty salon, where all the Louisiana ladies who are “anybody” come to have their hair done. Tough as steel and delicate as magnolias, they engage in hilariously feisty repartee, supporting one another through thick and thin with empathy and true grit.

Performances take place in ACT’s main-stage theater at 207 Cedar Street at 8 p.m. FOr more information, call (904) 261-6749.

The Amelia Island Museum of History offers a presentation on the third Friday of the month.

The presentations are on a variety of different topics, but each relate to the history of the island. The event takes place in Baker Hall in the museum. Cost is $5 per person (free for members). For more information, call (904) 277-0717 or visit www.ameliamuseum.org.

Sounds on Centre

Steel Magnolias

JUNE 2

A Savory Taste from A Savory Place We will have “Chefs” from the Micah’s Place Board Members, Auxiliary and Volunteers, and local civic and church groups participating in a cook-off using recipes from our “A Savory Place” cookbook. A tasting sample of each recipe from the cookbook will be given to each guest.

Guests will vote for their favorite recipes. We will have samples of wine and beer as part of the tasting. This event will be held from 4 – 7pm at the Atlantic Rec Center in Fernandina Beach.

Tickets are on sale for $35/person. There will be a variety of live music for everyone’s listening pleasure. Contact Kelly Monti at (904) 4916364, ext. 102 to buy your tickets.

JUNE 2

Florida Sea Turtles

Third on 3rd

JUNE 9

Diva’s Day Out Divas’ Day Out is a benefit for Girl Power 2 Cure, an Amelia Island-based nonprofit on a mission to end Rett Syndrome. The event will include 30 vendor booths, raffle items, and onstage features like fashion shows, a women’s self defense demo, fitness demos, even a no-holdsbarred Ask the OBGYN session. Local salons will demonstrate the trendiest techniques. For kids, there will be a Diva Dress Up Zone, a story zone, a visit from the zoo’s mascot and child safety IDs. For more information, call (904) 849-7106.

JUNE 9

Join a park ranger at Little Talbot Island State Park at 2pm and learn about the lifecycle of the sea turtle and the importance of these creatures.

The program will take place at the multi-use trail pavilion located at the south beach area on Little Talbot Island. No reservations are necessary and the program is free with regular park admission.

For more information, call (904) 251-2320.

JUNE 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Fernandina Farmers’ Market Come find farm-direct fruits and vegetables, organic products, specialty foods, gourmet baked goods, specialty plants and more.

9am – 1pm. For more information, visit www.fernandinafarmersmarket.com.

JUNE 6

Brown Bag Lunch Our speaker will be Ed Johnson giving a presentation on the history of smuggling. After the Embargo Act of 1807 prohibited U.S. citizens from international trade, Fernandina’s close proximity to the Georgia coast made it an ideal port for smuggling contraband into the United States from Spanish Florida. Come and explore our colorful past as an infamous hub for smugglers, pirates, and scallywags. This program is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Gray Edenfield at (904) 261-7378 ext. 102.

Goin’ Coastal Come out and enjoy the excitement as the top teams in the Georgia BBQ Association battle it out in this historic event. There will also be bbq vendors, concessions, live music, yard games, face painting and cold beer! It is definitely an event that you do not want to miss. Festival hours are Friday from 5pm – 9pm and Saturday from 10am – 5pm. For more information, call (904) 277-7350 ext. 2013.

JUNE 9

Second Saturday Artrageous Artwalk

Robison Jewelry introduces nautical jewelry designer Stephen Douglas in a special trunk show event. Beautiful 14k and sterling pendants, earrings, bangles, and rings depicting dolphins, starfish, seahorses, turtles and other sea life common to our area. For more information, call (904) 261-3635.

JUNE 23

Animal Signs Join a Park Ranger at Fort George Island Cultural State Park at 2pm for a presentation and leisurely guided hike through different Florida ecosystems on a quest to characterize tracks left by an assortment of critters. This program will take place at the Ribault Club on Fort George Island Cultural State Park. No reservations are necessary and the program is free. For more information, call (904) 251-2320.

JUNE 28

Drive For Success Golf Tournament Come hit the links and win fabulous prizes, while supporting Communities In Schools of Nassau County. This fun-filled event supports the local affiliate of the nation’s most successful drop out prevention program, and directly serves more than 3,600 students in Nassau County annually. 9:00am until 2:00pm. For more information, call (904)321-2000 or visit www.

CISNassau.org

JUNE 30

A free event on the second Saturday each month in Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach from 5:30 – 8:30pm. Thirteen participating galleries offer a diverse selection of art. For information, call (800) 226-3542, or visit ameliaisland.com.

JUNE 14

Women, Wealth & Wine An informal group of women who meet to discuss financial and related issues affecting us all. Come and ask the questions you have always wanted to ask and get insight to the questions you haven’t thought of yet. Financial answers and ideas over a glass of wine.

Begins at 5:30pm. For more information, call (904) 305-2608.

33 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

JUNE 22 AND 23

COFB/Nassau County United Way Golf Tournament The City of Fernandina Beach and the Nassau County Board of County Commissioners are hosting a golf tournament to benefity their United Way campaigns. There will be a continental breakfast followed by a 4 person scramble tournament and a bbq lunch. There will be prizes for the winners of the tournament, longest drive and closest to the pin and a raffle with a lot of great prizes! For more information, call (904) 277-7350, ext. 2013

To have your event featured here, email all of the information to calendar@ameliaislander.com.

www.AmeliaIslander.com

AMELIA

Come See the Newest Summer Fashions in Handbags Designer Handbags Zina Eva • Hobo • Lodis Helen Kaminski • Eric Javits M Z Wallace • Brahmin Kesslord of Paris • BCBG Max Mary Frances • Kenneth Cole

COMMUNITY

THEATRE STEEL MAGNOLIAS June 7-9, 14-16, 21-23 at 8pm June 17 Matinee at 2pm

207 Cedar Street ~ 904-261-6749 www.ameliacommunitytheatre.org

Designer Jewelry Franz • Diana Warner • Lenora Dame • Jan Michael

HANDBAGS • HATS SCARVES • JEWELRY GIFTS FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN 2380 Sadler Rd., Amelia Island

904-261-6993 Tue- Fri 10-6 • Sat & Mon 10-5

Let us pamper your Very Important Puppy!

KANDI SWANSON

National CertiÀed Master Groomer

SAM TRACEY

Featuring

Handbags and Jewelry

Visit us across from the Marriott near the beach.

CertiÀed Canine Massage Therapist

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,

Amelia s Camellias

BY DICKIE ANDERSON

W

ith its endless variations in color and petal format, the camellia is an intriguing flower. It is a favorite of those who love, cultivate, and grow flowers in the Southeast. Yet few know of the fascinating connection between this species and Amelia Island.

Gustav George Gerbing was born in 1900 in the town of Amelia City, located where the Harris Teeter shopping center now sits. Ever the entrepreneur, Gerbing, known as “Gus,” opened a seafood restaurant at the young age of 19 and became a successful oysterman. His success as a businessman allowed him to pursue his first love, horticulture. On his fifteen-acre property overlooking the Amelia River, Gerbing propagated hundreds of camellias and azaleas. A self-taught horticulturist, he was always learning from what he observed as he traveled

throughout the Southeast selling oysters and plants. In 1943, two years before the American Camellia Society was organized, Gerbing published the first comprehensive, all-color Camellia book in America, Camellias. The book included 100 camellias that he himself grew. Gerbing named one of his own seedlings, “Fernandina.”

Inspired by the beauty of Charleston, South Carolina’s Magnolia Gardens, Gerbing decided to create on Amelia Island a tourist destination that would showcase his specimen Camellias. At a spectacular opening in 1947, hundreds of

visitors toured the gardens and enjoyed Gerbing’s Festival of Flowers, which also included local beauty queens.

Gerbing offered his camellias for sale and operated his nursery for 14 years. Gerbing closed the garden in 1950, following the tragic death of his eldest son, but he continued to hybridize his camellias until his death in 1982. He sold his land to Ralph May, who later sold it to the Amelia Island Plantation.

Passionate about his plants to the end, as he lay dying he gave instructions for the correct labeling of the camellias around his last home in Fernandina Beach.

Today, seven acres of Gerbing’s original camellia and azalea grove survive as one parcel. Thanks to Cathy and Dennis Harbin, many of the heartier plants that have survived are being rescued, identified, and cared for. The Harbins acquired a portion of the property in 2006 and have built a home on part of the original Gerbing acreage. Their “Camellia Cottage” is one of six planned homes on the property.

Marianne Salas, a botanical artist and a newcomer to the island in 2007, heard about the fascinating history of the gardens and wanted to learn more. With the active support of the Harbins, she photographed and tagged over 1,000 camellia specimens. A major coup was the 2011 visit to Gerbing Gardens of camellia intelligentsia from the International Camellia Society, the American Camellia Society, and the Great Gardens Preservation Alliance. Together, they were able to identify some of Gerbing’s original plantings.

Because of Gerbing Gardens’ historical importance as a public garden and its cultural significance in the history of Florida, Salas, along with The Late Bloomers Garden Club of Jacksonville, succeeded in having information on the gardens accepted into the Archives of American Gardens at the Smithsonian Institute. More than 60 years after Gerbing’s death, his life’s passion lives on.

35 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

snapShots AT THE 2ND ANNUAL POKER RUN FOR THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS AT SCOTT & SONS FINE JEWELRY

DREW & PARKER SCOTT WITH TANYA & DAVID COKER

MIKE JOMANT AND SHANE WALKER

JEFF AND CHRISTIAN STEEL

SCOTT INGLIS AND TONY LANGLEY

AT THE “MATCH FOR THE CURE” TENNIS TOURNAMENT FOR MARCH OF DIMES AT OMNI AIP

PAM REA, DIANE LIVINGSTON, AND SUSIE KAWECKI

HELEN REDFERN AND PHIL SCANLAN

ANN DUBBERLY, MARCIA IULIANO AND DENISE MCDONALD

SCOTT COLEBOURNE AND LEE LEWIS

AT A MEETING OF THE OSPREY VILLAGE’S MAGNOLIA GARDEN CLUB

GAIL SHAVE AND JUDY BURKE

MARIELLA SCHRANTZ AND BARBI TOWNSEND

BARBARA GRAY AND MARY AGNES WHITE

JOYCE ENTZMINGER AND JACKIE STUBITS

AT F.P.U.’S RECEPTION FOR THE FIRST NATURAL GAS LINE AT THE RESIDENCE INN AMELIA ISLAND

JOHN BURKE, RANDY TAYLOR, RAMIRO RON FLICK, MARK CUTSHAW, SICRE, AND CALVIN FAVORS KEVIN WEBBER, AND AARON BEAN

NATALIE RICHARDS, DOTTIE RICHARDS, BOB HARTMAN AND DANNY LEEPER MIGUEL MURILLO, AND VICKI MORRIS

36 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

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37 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

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snapShots AT THE 6TH ANNUAL WILD AMELIA NATURE FESTIVAL

DAVID MONTGOMERY AND MELISSA BONER

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DEB BROWN, DOUG BROWN, AND BRANDY CARVALHO

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AT A SHRIMP FESTIVAL “PIRATE INVASION” AND FASHION SHOW AT SAVANNAH GRAND

HILDA HERMAN AND ZULA COURSON

LOIS FRISTION AND GAYLE GRADDY

CAROL MARIANI

DOUG NELSON (CENTER) GET A VISIT FROM THE PIRATES

AT THE “CHOPIN IN PARIS” CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL CONCERT AT ST. PETER’S CHURCH

ROSE BENNETT AND EMMYLOU SORUM

DOROTHY ROBB AND ANNE SHOWALTER

BETSY & DAVID BAKER

JANE LOWITZ AND JEANETTE NICHOLS

AT THE CELEBRATION IN HONOR OF THE 450TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ARRIVAL OF JEAN RIBAULT

JULIE BROWN AND ANGIE THOMPSON

BILL ALBEE AND MIMI ROONEY

LANA MULLIS-BLY AND JIM MARTIN

38 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

GILL & ARLYSE MCDOWELL

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39 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

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Visit 5211 South Fletcher Ave, or contact Todd Mitchell, Client Advisor, SunTrust Investment Services, Inc. at 904.491.5969.

Deposit products and services are offered through SunTrust Bank, Member ber FDIC. FD

Securities and Insurance Products and Services: Are not FDIC DIC o or any other Government Agency Insured • Are not Bank Guaranteed • May Lose Value SunTrust Private Wealth Management is a marketing name used by SunTrust banks, banks Inc., and the following affiliates: Banking and trust products and services are provided by SunTrust Bank. Securities, insurance (including ncludi annuities and certain life insurance products) and other investment products and services are offered by SunTrust Investment Services, rvices Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser and broker/dealer and a member of the FINRA and SIPC. Other insurance productss and services are offered by SunTrust Insurance Services, Inc., a licensed insurance agency. nts of SunTrust Bank and its affiliates (collectively, “SunTrust”) SunTrust Bank and its affiliates and the directors, officers, employees and agents are not permitted to give legal or tax advice. Clients of SunTrust should consultt with their legal and tax advisors prior to entering into any financial transaction. regis ©2011 SunTrust Banks, Inc. SunTrust and Live Solid. Bank Solid. are federally registered service marks of SunTrust banks, Inc.

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www.AmeliaIslander.com

in the garden

HEDWIG STORCH

Mexican orange (Choisya ternata)

sweet new shrubs Sweet mock orange, pomegranate, and other shrubs are great new additions to Amelia Island Gardens

BY BETTY MORRELL

F

lowers, flowers, and more flowers! In so many landscapes across the island, you’ll now find colors of the rainbow, earth tones, and anything in between.

It’s a wonderful time of year, and seeing the explosion of color around the island sure makes one feel good!

A friend recently called me to ask whether a bush she had found would survive in her Amelia Island garden.

When I asked her what it was, she said an English dogwood. I was at a loss, as I had never heard of the plant. Upon investigation, I found to my surprise that it was a mock orange. That plant I knew well, as I had it in my garden up north on Long Island.

Sweet mock orange, a.k.a. English dogwood, is a landscape shrub with an abundance of creamy white flowers on arching branches that sway with the slightest breeze. You rarely see this shrub in our modern landscapes, but this seldom-used, old-fashioned deciduous shrub has much appeal in the garden.

Sweet mock orange (Philadelphus coronarius) is grown for its unusually fragrant flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. It features

TIP O F T HE M O N T H Be sure to dead-head your perennial and annual plants to keep them blooming longer. A little fertilizer keeps them going, and Milorganite can be used anytime and as often as you like. It is organic, time-released, and will not burn.

four-petalled, one-and-a-half-inch very fragrant blossoms, with medium-green oval leaves. This plant can grow to 10 to 12 feet tall and equally wide. It should be grown in partial shade.

Prune every year just after blooming, cutting out the oldest wood and the surplus shoots at the base of the plant.

To rejuvenate, cut it back to the ground.

The tall types are striking in lawns or as background or corner plantings; smaller plants can be used as foundation plantings or as low screen plantings or informal hedges. An interesting phenomenon is that, like the crepe myrtle, they develop exfoliating or peeling bark. This is natural and should be appreciated rather than mistaken for a problem. They are not fussy about soil, as long as it has good

41 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

drainage. Hardy to about 15 degrees, this plant will make it through our winters.

Another mock orange is the Mexican orange (Choisya ternata), a very fastgrowing plant from six to eight feet high and just as wide. Lustrous rich green leaves, held toward ends of branches, are divided fans of three leaflets of about three inches long. Clusters of fragrant white flowers, somewhat like small orange blossoms, open in very early spring and continue for a couple of months, then intermittently through the summer.

Mexican orange is appealing to bees and makes an attractive informal hedge or screen. Grow in full sun to light shade.

It is hardy for our area and is an evergreen.

Another interesting shrub is the exotic Mediterranean pomegranate (Piunica granatum). This large shrub produces showy, large, ruffled single or double blooms that are orange-red in color and are followed by large round leathery balls packed with tart, juicy pomegranate seeds. This shrub can be grown in sun to partial shade. For more information on these plants, or anything else, just e-mail me at bamorrell@aol. com. Happy Gardening!

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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277-1993 42 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

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island home

coastal contemporary

BY KAREN MILLER PHOTOS BY DAVID BURGHARDT, ISLAND PHOTOGRAPHY

F

Top: With an abundance of porches and expansive marsh views, the house beautifully connects to the surrounding natural context.

Above: The magnificent curved stair reinforces the rotunda form through the center of the home.

or Marcia and Al Pertuz, family is everything. When the couple moved to Fernandina Beach from Boston two years ago, they wanted to build a house that would accommodate their two adult children, their spouses, and their four grandchildren, whom they hoped would be visiting regularly. Originally from Minnesota, Marcia and Al loved northern-style farmhouses and cottages. Yet, after living in Boston, they grew to appreciate the charming coastal homes with wrap-around porches and lofty ceilings. When they were ready to build, the couple chose Oyster Bay to build their dream home because of its panoramic views and the private setting.

Shawn Kirouac, contractor/owner of The Kirouac Group, a local design/build construction company, knew exactly what the couple was looking for in a house: a Carolina low-country home.

“I wanted to build them a home that would suit their lifestyle as

43 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

island home

Top: The coastal contemporary interior in neutral shades is the perfect backdrop for the Pertuzes collection of artwork.

Above: The exterior of the owners’ quarter features exposed rafter tails and nautical detailing.

a couple, while also welcoming their children and grandchildren,” says Kirouac. “Achieving this in a practical way, while also satisfying their desire for a unique, visually compelling home, was what made this such a fun project.” The result is a house that is both coastal and contemporary, and it is perfectly suited to Al and Marcia’s needs. A distinctive rotunda anchors the house at its center and functions as a central axis that divides the living spaces and brings symmetry to the multi-level home. Round windows add a nautical-style element that is complemented by the water views framed within. The first floor of the home is the garage, and that means that the two upper stories have beautiful views of the marsh, even though the house is surrounded by trees and foliage.

The second floor houses five bedrooms. One side of the house is for Al and Marcia, the other is for their guests. Each living space boasts beautiful porches, all screened for safety and usability.

The guest quarter has a separate living room and playroom, four bedrooms, and two private baths. That means that if the young family needs some time to themselves, they have a place where the kids can just be kids.

The third floor is more formal, and this is where Marcia and Al love to entertain. With a contemporary and comfortable dining and living room, they enjoy hosting small dinner parties regularly. There is also another large porch and outside kitchen, which is perfect for grilling and chilling, star gazing, bird-watching, and even fireworks at certain times of the year. “So many birds fly directly over our house,” says Marcia. “We love to watch the roseate spoonbills, the herons, the egrets, and other birds.” A kitchen and breakfast nook is where the couple likes to spend time in the morning. Marcia and Al also have their own offices on the third floor, plus a porch where they join one another to commiserate throughout the day.

44 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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island home

Top: The guest bedroom porch has a comfortable “old cottage” feel.

Below, left and right: The summer kitchen on the upper porch offers expansive march views. The casual outdoor table settings and accessories are from The Plantation Shop in The Palmetto Walk Shopping Village.

“The house is very thoughtfully designed,” explains Al. “It’s perfect for our lifestyle, and we love the architectural details. We wanted to bring the outdoors inside all year round.” To achieve that, the house is perfectly positioned at the edge of the marsh to take advantage of the sun and the wind. “Even in the summer, it is comfortable on the porches,” says Al. The couple also enjoys the home’s xeriscape, a type of landscape that uses abundant native plant species and requires very little upkeep.

Oyster Bay Harbour offers amenities that suit the couple’s needs, including tennis, a community pool, a yacht club, and seasonal neighborhood get-togethers, plus a lovely marina for the couple’s sailboat. Nature takes care of her own, and the serenity of Oyster Bay provides a peaceful environment for the couple’s way of life. With children and grandchildren visiting frequently, they enjoy their time here as much as their parents and grandparents do. Indeed, Marcia and Al are full-time Floridians now, basking in the beauty of their neighborhood on the marsh.

46 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

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47 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

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eating scene

BarZin

BISTRO WINE BAR

Whether you stop in for a glass of wine, a salad, dessert, or a full meal, BarZin is a gem of a restaurant, tucked away under the oak trees at Palmetto Walk.

BY KAREN MILLER • PHOTO BY WILLIAM RASER

T

im Seyda opened BarZin Bistro Wine Bar about a year ago on First Coast Highway on Amelia Island’s south end. An experienced restaurateur with a flair for food, wine, and hospitality, Seyda prides himself on BarZin’s fun, relaxed, and upbeat atmosphere, where guests can enjoy creative American cuisine, great wines, local brews, and Saki martinis.

My friend, Sherry, and I decided to stop by BarZin for lunch, where we headed straight for their outdoor seating area. Seyda planned much of the concept of his restaurant around the quaint surroundings of Palmetto Walk, and the atmosphere is lovely for a girls’ afternoon out. Sherry ordered a glass of Pinot Gris from the Joel Gott Winery in Oregon, and I opted for the Raspberry Iced Tea. The wine was a nice, summery white wine, with flavors of melon and pear. I loved the iced tea, as it was not too sweet and very refreshing. Tim suggested we try their signature salads, so our server brought me the Seasonal Salad, which, on this day, was a combination of arugula, green beans, cherry tomatoes, cranberries, toasted almonds, and feta cheese, all tossed with a homemade vinaigrette. Sherry tried the French Country Salad, made with artisan greens, pickled red onion, pear, bleu cheese, applewood smoked bacon, walnuts, and a warm vinaigrette. I loved the fact that the salads are tossed before they come to the table, so that every morsel is coated by the dressing. These salads were sublime, healthy, delicious, and bountiful enough for a full meal.

But luckily, we weren’t dieting that day, so we decided to try BarZin’s famous Frites, that is, French fries. These are not your average French fries: the thinly sliced and tender potato strips are fried to perfection, then seasoned with sea salt, drizzled with truffle oil, and topped with parmesan cheese. They’re served with a rich pesto aioli sauce for dipping. Aioli is French garlic mayonnaise, and BarZin adds some fresh basil to this. What a fantastic appetizer! The portion is fine to share, and I have been dreaming of those fries since that luncheon.

We also wanted to try an item from the sandwich board and we decided on the BarZin BLT. Served panino-style—hot pressed between two pieces of ciabatta bread—and filled with arugula, thick cut bacon, organic tomatoes, and fontina cheese, this is a spectacular sandwich! The arugula adds a peppery bite, and the fontina is a bit nutty. I doubted we could eat the whole thing, but alas, we did.

We also shared a piece of Chocolate Buttercream Kahlua Cake, which was dense, sweet, and almost creamy in texture.

Wow, what a fabulous lunch. Sherry, who has experience in the wine business, was very impressed with the wine list, and declared that “the wines are all made with grapes that are indigenous to their region and grow best there.” This ensures that each wine on their list is bound to be a superb wine in its class. I personally love the fact that the restaurant is a place where you could stop for a glass of wine, a snack, perhaps a plate of dessert, or even a full dinner. You can eat in or out, at a table or at the bar, and the staff is so friendly, they make you feel like you’re a regular, even if it’s the first time you’ve eaten at BarZin. A gem of a restaurant, tucked away at Palmetto Walk, it could be my new favorite place to dine out.

48 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

dining out

Amelia Islander

dining guide

FRESH LOCAL SEAFOOD & STEAKS Beer • Wine • Cocktails OPEN AT 11AM FOR LUNCH AND DINNER

29 South ~ This eclectic bistro has it all; great

ambiance, fantastic food, an extensive wine list and reasonable prices. The menu can best be described as traditional world cuisine with modern, whimsical twist, where award-winning executive chef and owner Scotty Schwartz paints a playground for the palette. Choose from entrees including: lobster corn dogs with spicy horseradish ketchup spiked with ketel one vodka, seared scallops on green tea smoked thai curry nage topped with crispy calamari straws, and sweet tea brined smithfield farm pork chop on macaroni gratin with warm blackberry preserves. 29 South also features grilled pizzas, sandwiches, and nightly specials. 29 South Third Street, Historic Downtown, (904) 277-7919, www.29southrestaurant.com.

Bar Zin ~ Inspired by 30 years in the hospitality industry and numerous trips to Napa and Sonoma, 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.

In addition, we offer a diverse beverage menu consisting of great wines, local brews, and Saki martinis. Whenever possible, it is our intention to utilize local farmers, local products, and local businesses to create a farm-to-table style menu. Our vision was to design a neighborhood atmosphere where everyone will feel welcome, whether you are enjoying a full meal, appetizers, or just stopping in for a cold beverage; a place that will attract a diverse clientele which in turn makes it a place where everyone will have a relaxing and fun time. www.barzin-bistro-winebar.com.

Lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch. Major credit cards. 4924 First Coast Hwy at Palmetto Walk Shopping Village. (904) 310-6620.

The Beach Club At Amelia ~ Experience one of a kind ocean views while you dine! The Beach Club At Amelia is centrally located near the roundabout at 2080 S. Fletcher Avenue, within walking distance of multiple hotels and only steps to the beach. Inviting decor, scenic views, ample menu selections and a full liquor bar are just a few of the reasons to patronize this beautiful establishment!

Tuesday-Thursday 11am to 3pm; 5:30pm-9pm, Friday and Saturday 11am to 9pm, Sunday 11am to 7pm. (The bar remains open each day after the kitchen closes, until the fun ends!). (904) 4328978 or (904) 881-0131.

Beech Street Grill ~ This restaurant has won awards for its wine list and has been selected often as one of the 25 best restaurants in the 49 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

31 N. 2nd St. DOWNTOWN • 261-4749

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner 7am – 8pm • 7am – 9pm Fri/Sat Early Bird Specials • Beer & Wine Open 7 Days 1120 S. 14th Street • (904) 432-8400

5472 First Coast Hwy. (located between Ritz-Carlton and Omni AIP)

Monday-Sunday 4:30PM - 9:30PM 904.491.1999 • 904.261.9400 Outdoor dining.

Private room available for large parties.

Catering and takeout available.

Reservations suggested. www.AmeliaIslander.com

dining out

HAPPY HOUR! Sun - Thurs 4pm - 7pm Daily Drink and Food Specials

REAL Fresh Local Seafood Live Entertainment Everyday The only place in town where it’s good to have a cocktail on the beach.

Upstairs Available for Private Parties The Only True Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar on Amelia Island.

Open Mon - Sat at 11am, Sundays at Noon 2910 Atlantic Avenue at Main Beach 310-6904

RESTAURAN T

Fernandina’s First Fusion Restaurant

614 Centre St. 904.261.0508

Dinner

Daily 5:30pm - 9:30pm

Lunch

Mon-Fri 11:30am - 2:30pm Sat 12:00pm - 2:30pm www.bonitogrillandsushi.com

&

BAR

Life is good at the surf!

BEER • WINE • COCKTAILS Extensive menu from Lite Bites to Delicious Steaks and Fresh Seafood Open at 11am Daily Happy Hour Monday-Friday Daily Specials • Entertainment

3199 S. Fletcher Ave. • 261-5711

ASIAN FUSION CUISINE Chinese & Thai

JOIN US FOR LUNCH! Mon - Sat 11am-3pm • Sun 12-3pm Dinner Available from 3-10pm Daily Meals Include: Spring roll, white or fried rice, choice of soup or salad

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795

Beer & Wine ~ ‘To-Go’ Available

1484 Sadler Rd.

904-321-2777

~ Flavors to Savor ~ Breakfast ~ Lunch ~ Dinner 321-1444 708 Centre Street • Downtown Fernandina Beach

Le Clos serves dinner nightly by candlelight in a charming 1906 cottage.

Eclectic wine menu.

Reservations recommended.

LE CLOS RESTAURANT 20 South Second Street

904-261-8100 www.leclos.com

Open every evening from 5pm to 10pm 510 South 8th St • Fernandina Beach 904.277.8797 “Where Friends and Flavors Come Together”

50 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

area. It features an outstanding seafood selection including seared tuna, herb roasted sea bass and swordfish piccata prepared in New American style. 277-3662. 801 Beech Street. Open seven days. D, $$$, F. Bonito Grill and Sushi ~ Bonito Grill & Sushi offers guests a unique dining experience with an “East meets West” fusion cooking style.

Enjoy miso-rubbed Chilean Sea Bass, black bean & garlic Maine lobster, hoisin citrus glazed salmon, or one of our chef’s daily fusion specials. Dine in the casual sushi bar area, or for a more elegant evening, select from our extensive wine list and indulge in the experience of our warm, contemporary dining room.

Monday through Saturday, join us for lunch, and try Bonito’s popular Bento lunch box. Our full bar, eclectic menu, and unique atmosphere will provide a new twist to your normal lunch or dinner routine. 614 Centre St. 261-0508. www.bonitogrillandsushi.com Lunch: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm, Sat. 12:00-2:30pm, Dinner: 7 days, 5:30-9:30pm V/MC/AE. 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. Open seven days. At the marina on Front Street. 261-2660. Open 7 days, Mon-Sat L, D, $$$, F. Café Karibo ~ Located on North 3rd St. just off Centre Street in the historic downtown district.

It has a cozy interior with a funky, laid-back setting. It’s most striking feature is its naturally shaded outdoor dining patio. Great selection of sandwiches, salads, and soups for lunch. Tasty nightly fresh fish specials, theme nights (Tue: Trivia with Angie. Prizes each night.), and live music in the patio most Friday and Saturday nights. Kid friendly. Vegetarian items on the menu. Open: 11am–9pm Tue thru Sat; Sunday 11am–8pm with lunch menu specials; Mon 11am–3pm. Fresh-brewed beer available in the Café and in the brew pub—The Karibrew— located next door. Food prices are relatively lowlunch average $10 pp; dinner $20 pp (generous portions).

Le Clos ~ Located in Fernandina’s Historic District, Le Clos serves delicious Provençal dishes, by candlelight and music, in a charming, intimate, 1906 cottage. Patio garden seating available, weather permitting. Eclectic wine list.

Monday-Saturday 5:30-9:00 PM. Reservations recommended. 30 South Second Street.

(904)261.8100. www.leclos.com. D, $$$, B/W. Crab Trap ~ Nautical decor and friendly service makes for a casual, relaxing atmosphere. Dinner daily offers seafood—fried, grilled, broiled, or blackened—as well as steaks, chicken and oysters year round. Entrees $8.95 - $18.95. Call for seasonal hours. Beer, wine, and cocktails. Family owned and operated since 1979. 31 N 2nd Street, 261-4749. $$$ V/MC/D.

www.AmeliaIslander.com

dining out 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.

All major credit cards. Open 7 days. 261-7700.

22 South 4th Street. $$$, L, D, B/W. Espressos Cafe ~ Food offerings at Espressos are simple and light, refined over many years by discriminating palates and freshly prepared in the best Tuscan tradition. Enjoy Old-World wines from the star vineyards of Europe and coffees and teas chosen from the finest estates in the world.

Espressos boasts an elegant ambience that mirrors Europe’s finest bistros and cafés. Located in Gateway to Amelia. Open Mon. to Wed., 8 a.m to 5 p.m; Thurs. to Sat., from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Available for private events at other times. (904) 491-9800. Major credit cards. B,L,D. $$ Florida House Inn ~ Enjoy Southern cooking at its best. Chef Susannah Sands makes everything on the menu from scratch. Menu includes southern style home cooking as well as Southern Bistro salads, sandwiches, soups and daily specials.

The Florida House Inn is located just off Centre Street in the historic district of Fernandina Beach.

The inn is the oldest surviving hotel in the state of Florida and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Lunch: Wed. – Sun. 11:30am 2:30pm. Mermaid Bar: Open Wed. – Sun. Drink specials nightly. 23 South Third Street, 904491-3322. L, $$, F

Ask a local. www.SlidersSeaside.com 1998 South Fletcher Avenue •Amelia Island 904.277.6652

Gennaro’s Ristorante Italiano and Pizzaria ~

Authentic Italian cuisine at its finest. Start with our Antipasto or our mussels with white wine or marinara sauce. Accent with luscious wine from our extensive selection. Try our signature dishes, such as Chicken Marsala, Veal Cacciatore with fresh mushrooms, Shrimp Fra’ Diavolo or Veal Piccata with lemon, butter, capers and white wine sauce. Specialty pizzas include Margharita, Chicken Florentine, and Shrimp Feast. 5472 First Coast Hwy (between Summer Beach check-in and Omni AIP), (904) 261-9400 and (904) 491-1999, Mon-Sun 4:00 - 9:30pm.

Reservations recommended. Major credit cards.

Outdoor dining and private room for large parties. Beer and wine.

Gourmet Gourmet ~ Gourmet Gourmet is located between The Ritz-Carlton and AIP at the historical American Beach entrance, on the corner of Lewis Street and A1A. In addition to our fabulous selections of baked goods, appetizers, salads, & entrées to go, we also serve gourmet coffees/cappuccino/espresso with continental breakfast items, brunch, and lunch everyday.

A bistro-style dinner menu is served Wed-Sat 5-9pm. AE/MC/ V/DISC 261-8973. Sun-Tues 9am-6pm; Wed-Sat 9am-Seasonal. $$, B,L,D. Hoyt House ~ Enjoy an Authentic English Tea Experience at The Hoyt House Bed & Breakfast.

Our menu has fresh Scones and Crumpets made

Fresh ~ Organic Natural A Cafe for Conscious Eating Conveniently Located Inside Nassau Health Foods

Meals To Go • Office Lunches Delivery Available Open Monday - Saturday, 8am - 3pm 833 TJ Courson Road Fernandina Beach, FL

904-277-3141

51 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

Open for Lunch & dinner daily Closed Sundays (904) 432-8213 19 South 3rd Street Historic Downtown Fernandina

www.AmeliaIslander.com

dining out

Gourmet To-Go Dinners Old South Yankee

Gourmet Shop & Catering 1667 South 8th St. • 904-277-5609

Florida House Inn AMELIA

ISLAND

-

FLORIDA

Lunch - Wed. – Sun. 11:30AM - 2:30PM Southern Bistro Fare

Authentic

English Tea Wed-Sun 12:30 to 3 Reservations Required

Mermaid Bar - Open Wed. – Sun. Drink Specials Nightly 22 SOUTH THIRD STREET 904-491-3322 WWW.FLORIDAHOUSEINN.COM

904-277-4300 • www.hoythouse.com 804 Atlantic Avenue • Historic District

2 LOCATIONS to serve you!

530 Centre St. Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 (904) 277-2011 96096 Lofton Square Ct. Yulee, FL 32034 (904) 491-6955

Authentic Mexican Food plus Full Bar at both locations! lunch ~ tues - sat 11:30 - 2 lunch/brunch ~ sun 11:30 - 2 happy hour ~ tues - sat 4 - 6 dinner ~ tues - sat 5:30 - 10

www.peppersmexican.com

4924 ½rst coast hwy 904.310.6620 www.barzin-bistro-winebar.com palmetto walk shopping village 52 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

about one hour before you arrive and are usually still warm. A perfect balance of sweet and savory with three different Silver tray platters to choose from.Our signature Tea Sandwiches of Spiced Egg, Tarragon Chicken and the classic Cucumber are sure to please. For a different experience we also have a tray of English Cheeses and Truffle Pate. Open daily Wednesday through Sunday from 12:30pm to 3:30pm and private parties of six or more on Monday & Tuesday. Trays range from $11.95 - $39.95. Full libations offered including Bellini Cocktail, Mimosa & Bloody Mary’s to complete your experience. Reservations are required. 904-277-4300.Our menu is on-line at www.hoythouse.com. Located at 804 Atlantic Avenue on the corner of Center & 8th Avenue in the Historic District.

Jack & Diane’s ~ Jack & Diane’s remains the love of the locals for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Come explore “A world of Taste all in one Place” as it is affectionately known by guests from every corner of the globe. At the crossroads of comfort and quest, you will find each dish combines homespun recipes with global influences offering new discoveries in their signature concept of “adventurous dining”. The extensive five page menu presents such a great variety that they created a $5 tasting menu, so you can explore all your cravings at once. This cozy bistro nestled in a historic home circa 1862 offers a fun-loving, unique dining experience in what is now an artists’ sanctuary. Your senses will be filled with sights, sounds and tastes from the world over in this little island gem. Tastes that echo both tradition and adventure, it’s the memories a happy life are made of. www.jackanddianescafe.com 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. Major credit cards. 321-2558. Open seven days. D, $$$.

Kelley’s Courtyard Café ~ The newest addition to Fernandina Beach’s eclectic blend of restaurants.

This family friendly Café offers homemade soups, salads and sandwiches in a warm and welcoming courtyard in Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach. On and Off site catering available. Please come and join us at Kelley’s we’re at 19 S. 3rd Street Fernandina Beach. (904) 432-8213 Lulu’s at the Thompson House ~ Lulu’s is more than just a sandwich shop! The dinner menu changes nightly to showcase the best available fresh, local seafood. Lunch features sandwiches, po’ boys, salads, and a wide selection of seafood “little plates.” Open for lunch and dinner Tues - Sat. Sunday Brunch from 10:30am - 3pm.

Beer and wine available. Major credit cards.

Reservations recommended. 11 South 7th Street. Historic Downtown Fernandina. www. lulusamelia.com. (904) 432-8394.

The Mustard Seed Cafe ~ Located inside Nassau Health Foods, The Mustard Seed is Amelia

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Island’s only organic eatery and juice bar, with an extensive, eclectic menu featuring vegetarian and vegan items. Daily specials include local seafood, free range chicken and fresh organic produce.

Salads, wraps, sandwiches, and soups are available —all prepared with Stephanie Christopher’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, 8 am - 3pm. Mon -Sat. NassauHealthFoods.net 833 T.J. Courson Rd. (904) 277-3141 Old South Yankee Gourmet Grocery Store ~

Whether you’re headed out to the beach or on your lunch break, Old South Yankee offers a variety of sandwiches including Cubans, Spicy Chicken Salad, The Best BLTs and many more.

We have homemade soup every day, salad specials, and lunches are served with cole slaw, pickles and sweet or unsweet tea. And while you’re waiting, enjoy samples of Old South Yankee gourmet dips and spreads, blueberry lemonade, and awardwinning pies. If you’re planning a party, pick up a catering menu or make an appointment by calling (904) 277-5609. Located at 1667 South 8th Street, across from the Island Carwash.

PLAE ~ PLAE (People Laughing and Eating) features a brilliant and seductive atmosphere that accompanies an incomparable menu. Both the menu and the lounge are classic, with exciting twists and unexpected elements that tantalize all appetites. Make PLAE a must on your “to do” list. Located at The Spa & Shops at Amelia Island Plantation. (904) 277-2132. D, $$$, F. Sandy Bottoms ~ Casual dining, lunch and dinner menu, outside beach bar, tables and chairs in the sand on the beach, live entertainment almost every night, feet from the ocean. We offer seafood, sandwiches, salads, and home made pizzas. Full bar inside and outside.

Sliders Seaside Grill ~ The Caribbean on Amelia Island! Slider’s offers fun dining for the whole family! 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 and dinner. 1998 S. Fletcher Ave. at Sadler Rd. (next to the roundabout). 277-6652. L, D, $$, F. The Surf ~ Dine indoors or out on our huge, sun-drenched deck with views of the ocean across the street. The extensive menu features delicious seafood, steaks, burgers, wraps, salads and Boar’s Head sandwiches. Daily specials include our famous all-you-can-eat wings (Wed. night) and lobster special all day Sunday. Casual, fun atmosphere. Takeout available. Open daily from 11am. 29 TVs throughout. WIFI available. Full service bar. Entertainment every night and weekend afternoons. 3199 S. Fletcher Ave. 261-5711.

L, D, $$, F.

Amelia

LIQUORS & Fine Wines

SINCE 1985

Island’s Best Selection of Spirits Cellar Selection Wines • Handmade Cigars Extensive selection of single malt scotch, single barrel bourbons, specialty tequilas, and exotic rums.

Senior Citizen Monday Discount Locally Owned & Operated

Next to HARRIS TEETER

Next to PUBLIX

261-7701

261-7708

Sales & Rentals ◆ ◆ Property Management ◆ ◆ Association Management ◆ ◆

1880 South 14th Street, Suite 103 • Fernandina Beach www.galphinre.com • 277-6597

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner. $=Entrees under $10, $$=Entrees up to $15. $$$=Entrees over $15. F=Full bar, B/W=Beer & Wine 53 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

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Get from here...

to here....

INTERIOR DECORATING • ANTIQUES • HOME FURNISHINGS ACCESSORIES • AREA RUGS • BED LINENS • FINE BEDDING

1112 South 14th Street •Amelia Island 904.261.6333 • www.lottsfurniture.com

by looking in here...

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 54 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

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OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

Sumptuous Elegance Magnificent four-bedroom Arthur Rutenberg home in sought-after Amelia Island Plantation. Dual master suites. Thirtyfoot ceiling with cupola and clerestory windows produce bountiful ambient light. Brasilian cherry floors and oak treads. Three-panel vanishing doors lead to Travertine cool deck surrounding a tropical screened and heated saltwater pool, accented by an attractive summer kitchen with GE stainless grill. Upper bonus space features a balcony under screen cage with view of the pool below.

Top-of-the-line kitchen and breakfast bar open to formal dining

room. Enjoy fine and casual dining options, quaint boutique shopping, and a morning or evening stroll along the pristine Amelia Island beaches fronting the Atlantic Ocean. Schedule a tee time at any of three award-winning golf courses comprising 54 championship holes. Take a short bike ride to Racquet Park, home of the Plantation’s multifaceted fitness center, indoor lap pool, tennis courts, and the Verandah restaurant. Relax and enjoy the luxurious Florida lifestyle in a very special place. High quality.

Immaculate condition. Premium location. Must see.

For more information on this exceptional property, call Claudia Watts with Coldwell Banker The Amelia Group at (904) 556-4000.

55 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

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OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

H O M E S | HO M ES ITES | VILLA S

4 Live Li O Oakk

46 LLong Point P i t

Located in Cedar Point, this 3 BR/2.5 BA home highlights peaceful wooded views, has a fireplace and cathedral ceilings. $450,000

This luxurious 3 BR/2.5 BA, 3,070 sq. ft. brick home has an elegant interior and custom landscaping which includes a peaceful water feature. $989,000

9B Buckthorne kth

148 LLong Point P i t

The large courtyard welcomes you into this lovely 3 BR/3 BA home showcasing a wood-burning fireplace and natural wooded views. $485,000

Immaculate 4 BR/4.5 BA home featuring natural stone tiles, a winding staircase, Kitchen Aid stainless appliances, and more. $1,499,000

41 Littl Little D Dunes

38 O Ocean Cl Club bD Dr.

Enjoy the southern charm of this 2-story 4 BR/3 BA home with fireplace, golf view, private carport and community pool. $725,000

Stately 3-story Mediterranean style home, 4 BR/4 full, 2 half baths, 5,703 sq. ft. just steps from the ocean. $1,975,000

Prices subject to change without notice. Sq. ft. is approximate

Located in the Reception Center at Omni Amelia Island Plantation Monday–Friday 9am–5:30pm • Saturday–Sunday 10–5pm

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

Beach B hW Walker lk Villas Vill

Marsh M h Vi View Villas Vill

Ocean view 2 - 4 bedroom villas just steps away from the beach and pool. $350,000 - $549,000

Unique 1 to 3 bedroom villas showcasing breathtaking views of the marsh and Intracoastal Waterway. $679,000

Courtside C t id Vill Villas

Piper D Pi Dunes Villas Vill

Comfortable 2 bedroom / 2 bath, villas located near the Amelia Island Plantation Racquet Park area. $279,000 - $330,000

Enjoy panoramic ocean views from these luxury 3 bedroom / 3 bath villas. $995,000 - $2,250,000

Linkside Li k id Villas Vill

Sandcastles S d tl Vill Villas

You will enjoy the serene golf and lake views from these spacious 2 and 3 bedroom villas. $439,000

Charming 1 and 2 bedroom villas with ocean, dune and pool views, perfect for a beach getaway. $189,000 - $695,000

6800 First Coast Highway • Amelia Island, FL 32034 • (904) 277-5980 • (866) 669-5099 aipfl.com/RealEstate • aiprealestate@omnihotels.com

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

Anne Barbanel = Commitment “Striving to be the best... when only the best will do!”

Call Anne Today ~ 904.583.0734 www.annebarbanel.com John T. Ferreira & Son, Inc.

Claudia

watts BROKER-ASSOCIATE

Contact Claudia today for market insight!

500 Centre Street • Amelia Island

95214 SPRING BLOSSOM LANE Lovely, well maintained home in the prestigious south end of the island. The home has a great open floorplan. The greatroom boasts a fireplace and opens to a large screened porch overlooking a private, fenced backyard. The large, open dining room makes this a perfect home for entertaining. The kitchen is a gourmet delight with Dacor gas range, granite countertops, 42” cabinets and a bright breakfast room. The split bedroom plan offers privacy to the spacious owner’s suite. Very close to restaurants, shopping and the beach! MLS#53716. $345,000

208 OCEAN PARK Exceptional views of the Atlantic Ocean from the living room, kitchen, master bedroom and balcony. In excellent condition with 30 year warranty, cushioned-back pergo and new carpets. The floorplan is very open and there are 10 ft ceilings. The complex features a community pool and spa area. Short stroll to main beach with oceanside restaurants, miniature golf, playground and benchs to sit on to just watch the ocean waves roll in and out. Short term rentals are allowed. The building is very well maintained. MLS#57518. $325,000

95066 RIVER MARSH TERRACE Your own country estate on 1/2 acre surrounded by gorgeous trees. This beautiful 4BR/3BA home boasts a screened saltwater pool, 2 fireplaces, and family room and gourmet kitchen, both with Pella doors. Plenty of room in the back yard for a yard, play area or whatever your heart desires. In 2008, home was graced with a new roof, new AC, new 50 gallon water heater and new impact windows. Very convenient to shopping, restaurants and only 15 minutes to the beach. MLS#57376. $379,000

2319 YARD ARM WAY This beautiful Arts-n-Crafts home makes for stunning curb appeal. A tray ceiling crowns the great room which features built-in cabinetry, French doors, and gas fireplace.

Kitchen has gorgeous upgraded cabinets, center island and granite countertops. Master suite has sitting room, French doors, dual walkin closets and spacious bath with jetted tub. Covered porch overlooking large back yard. Outdoor lighting, and wonderful breeze door to allow the sounds of the ocean and breezes to flow through. MLS#51053. $489,000

Selling the Amelia Island Lifestyle since 1995...

311 Centre Street • Amelia Island Email: claudia.watts@coldwellbanker.com Cellular: 904.556.4000 • Office: 904.261.0347 Website: www.claudiawatts.com Blog: www.wattsonmymind.net

Luxurious condominium with southerly exposure 4302 Carlton Dunes MLS#57480 $1,375,000 Tremendous appeal nestled in a lush dune hammock 47 Beach Walker Road MLS#56480 $1,075,000 3 bedroom oceanfront end unit in Summer Beach 4992 Sea Watch Drive MLS#57536 $977,000 Unparalleled oceanfrontage 120-foot wide lot 1544 South Fletcher Avenue MLS#54683 $885,000 Marshfront oasis in gated Summer Beach 95044 Spring Tide Lane MLS#57526 $748,900 First ¾oor convenience, oceanfront in Summer Beach 603 Sailmaker MLS#57502 $398,900 Charming home one block from the beach. Swimming pool.

1007 Oceanview Court MLS#57361 $370,000 Nearly new, well maintained home on a quiet cul-de-sac 95098 Ventures Court MLS#57306 $177,500

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

ISLAND

TEAM

Rated #1 Agents by an Independent Lab 1774 REGATTA DRIVE $925,000

311 Centre Street • Amelia Island Email: amelia4sale@aol.com (904) 415-1002 - Cell • (904) 261-0347 Office

Beautiful Cape Cod design in gated Golfside South. Located on the 9th hole of the Golf Club of Amelia golf course and directly across from the Ritz Carlton, this home is just steps to the ocean. This 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bath home features heart pine flooring, top-of-the-line kitchen

Serenity in Amelia Island Plantation MLS#57461 $649,000

with gas range, granite countertops, stainless appliances, amazing architectural details and natural light. Light filled sunroom overlooks screened and heated pool and secluded garden area.

Oceanfront home on large lot MLS#54251 $1,375,000

Condo with sunset views in Amelia Island Plantation MLS#56834 $235,000 The Landings on Amelia River with 40’ boat slip on ICW MLS#57465 $1,089,000

6 SALT MARSH DRIVE $799,000 Exceptional value in Long Point on Amelia Island Plantation. Spacious floorplan features a total of 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths – three, of which, are located on the main level – large open living room with built ins fireplace, formal dining room, oak floors in living areas and Master, huge kitchen with granite tops and two refrigerators. Bricked floor

Oceanfront villa on South End of Amelia Island MLS#56581 $1,133,000 Just reduced! North Hampton Golf Community MLS#56810 $249,000

Florida room overlooks large deck and gorgeous private backyard.

Short walk to beach and Long Point club house.

Coldwell Banker The Amelia Group 311 Centre Street, Amelia Island, FL 32034 • 904.556.3228

www.troxelteam.com

Walk to the beach. Ocean views from deck MLS#56808 $359,000

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

203 Centre St. • Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 KarenWerling@TeamWerling.com • 904.556,9549 www.FindNortheastFloridaHomes.com Spectacular ocean front town homes. Only 4 units with pool, boardwalk to beach, private elevator, tandem garage. Owner is a builder so all the upgrades are included!

Resort rentals allowed.

Marcy Mock Amelia Island ~ Nassau County Board of Realtors Top Producer

~ Featured Listings ~

280 S. FLETCHER $900,000 AmeliaIslandBeachFrontCondo.com

CARLTON DUNES AT SUMMER BEACH

Located north and adjacent to The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. These fabulous oceanfront condominiums feature beautiful custom appointments, large square footage and membership to The Golf Club of Amelia Island. Oceanfront and golf course views are incredible!

These units start at $1,150,000.

OCEAN PLACE AT SUMMER BEACH

Located on the south side of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. These wonderful condominiums offer the perfect get-away. Competitive pricing, fabulous floor plans, beautiful views, as well as rental potential have made Ocean Place a “must have” for potential owner-investors.

These units start at $459,000 and are direct oceanfront.

View Virtual Tours of these and other fabulous listings on www.marcymock.com.

Come & Enjoy Our Five Diamond Neighbors

Pre-1900 built home in Historic District. Magnificently restored for modern day living and the “charm” has been meticulously maintained.

Gourmet kitchen, pine floors, 4 bedrooms, 2 car garage.

221 N. 3RD STREET $720,000 AmeliaIslandHistorical.com Almost 1/2 acre lush homesite on Egans preserve on a private cul-de-sac blocks from the beach. Each floor has a private porch. Lovely custom home!

3 bedrooms, 2 fireplaces and bonus room.

$425,000 2347 OFF SHORE COURT OffShoreCourt.com

Diana Dilallo

Production Manager

MARCY MOCK

5456 First Coast Highway Amelia Island, FL 32034 904-261-0624 office 904-753-6500 cell

www.marcymock.com

Mortgages without obstacles.

Office: 904-557-9902 Cell: 904-557-5733 Fax: 877-455-7110 NMLSID#: 316314 ddilallo@primelending.com www.ddilallo.primelending.com Scan this code with your smartphone.

9900 Amelia Island Parkway - Suite 400 • Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

PAM BELL PHOTOGRAPHY

E njoy all the amenities, all the activities, and all the excitement available to you on Amelia Island.

AMELIA RENTAL

& Management Services 5299 S. Fletcher Avenue

(904) 261-9129 • (800) 874-8679 www.AmeliaRentals.com

A one stop design service providing fabrics, flooring and furniture for the Amelia Island community.

904.277.3603 Conveniently located next to Baxter’s and across from Palmetto Walk on the First Coast Hwy.

Island Girls from page 29. to personify the freedom, beauty, and mystery of Cumberland Island. I never forgot the photograph of that stunning woman, and it would be many years before I learned her identity. Poetry was the catalyst.

In the summer of 1992, on home leave to the island from Paris, where my husband and I were then living, I was asked to read my poetry in the hall of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church.

A friend introduced me to a woman in the audience who had already caught my attention because of her air of authority, and an eye-catching turquoise satin blouse she was wearing.

She was Retta Ferguson McDowell, Cindy’s sister, and, in the course of our conversation, she revealed that the woman I so admired in the photograph in the house on Cumberland was her mother.

When I returned home for good after my husband’s retirement, I plunged into island activities to meet new friends and connect with old ones. I met Cindy in a group of women active in the arts community. The arts melded us, as it does many on our island. We were instant friends, just add water, or wine as the “case” may be. As our friendship deepened, we uncovered striking similarities in our life journeys, one of which was leaving the safety and security of birthplace for an adventurous life, returning home after a long absence. Cindy moved with her husband to Gloucester, Massachusetts. I moved with my husband to Atlanta, Miami Beach, and

lived abroad for seven years, returning home in 1998. Cindy returned with her husband home to Cumberland, where they lived in a tent from September to June. The two of them physically built their house, and they lived in this house until divorce separated them. Cindy remained on Cumberland, but says she still misses New England, especially in the summer. The heart cannot be harnessed, but it does have its boundaries.

Cindy expresses her love for the salt life—and the necessity to be near it—in her hand-made jewelry, which she creates from articles and artifacts gathered from the sea. She is an artist of place, and I have been called a poet of place. Place is what engages us. As I wrote in one of my poems, “I am Barrier Island, taught by she who formed me from salt, seashell, and the sting of sand.” So, here we are, Cindy and I, born on islands and born to be friends, still living out common, uncommon lives at point of origin. As my poem says it, “In spite of trade winds, the skulls and bones of picturesque pirates, failed story tales, where even the wind lies.” Island girls must be close to water.

It’s their birthright, their evolutionary imperative.

Nola Perez is the author of 12 books of poetry and three memoirs. Her most recent poetry collection, entitled The Prince of the Pup Tent, was released in May and is available at Books Plus and area shops.

61 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

dream weddings...

Beautiful venues, experienced professionals, and inspiriing stories from brides who have taken advantage of the wonderful resources available on Amelia Island. Pick up your copy of Amelia Island Weddings today to begin planning the wedding you’ve always dreamed of. Copies are available at local merchants around the island.

62 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

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PHOTO BY PAM BELL PHOTOGRAPHY

... are made here.

CHEERS HORSE RANCH

Crescendo Amelia

Offering English and Western Horse Riding Lessons.

SUMMER HORSE CAMP

Light Jazz • Latin • R&B/Soul & More Available for weddings, family functions, corporate parties, and club dates.

Come have fun learning all about horses, basic care, & grooming.

We Have Lots of Fun! See our website for more information.

www.cheerhorseranch.com

Contact Frank Basile fro all the details.

96841 Blackrock Rd. • Yulee, FL 32097

904.302.6086

(904) 277-7047 PC

Computer Guys of Amelia

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1416 Lewis Street (behind Gourmet Gourmet)

Tech Support in Plain English Y Virus, Spyware & Adware Removal Y New Computer Ordering & Set-up Y Wireless Network Set-up Y Assistance with iPhones, iPads & Droids Y Diagnosis & Repair Y Backups & Disaster Recovery Y Flat Fee Rates in Our Shop Y On-site Service at Your Home or Office

904-277-0003

www.ohcomputerguy.com

Holly Allain PHOTOGRAPHY Specializing in Weddings, Family and Childrens Portraiture

MAC

Please mention to our advertisers that you saw them in the Amelia Islander Magazine www.ameliaislander.com

Fernandina Beach • 904-491-0378 www.hollyallain.com

63 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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Trolley Ride through History

Amelia Island Trolleys ferries visitors and locals alike back in time to Fernandina Beach’s golden era.

BY DICKIE ANDERSON • PHOTOS BY KATRIN BELL

W

hat fun to hop on a trolley and see Amelia Island’s historic district in a way you probably never have before!

Amelia Island Trolleys, based in downtown Fernandina Beach, offers a wonderful way to learn more about Amelia Island’s amazing history. House guests, children, or grandchildren in town? What better way to share the history of Fernandina, while viewing its lovely historic homes and buildings?

A trolley tour with David Edwards or Michael Pappas is a treat, as each narrates with stories about the island’s intriguing history, as well as their own fascinating stories of life on the island they love. The fifty-square block historic district offers a living museum of the golden era of the island. In the late 1800’s, five resort hotels competed for the tourism business that arrived by Mallory Steamships out of New York City. Known as the Newport of the South, successful local entrepreneurs built beautiful Victorian homes here. Some of the best examples of Victorian architecture can be seen as the trolley traverses the shady streets that criss-cross Centre Street.

The Edwards family has been operating Amelia Island Trolleys since 2010. It all started when David and Ellen Edwards’ daughter decided to rent the island trolley with some of her friends to take them to their senior prom. They had a great time, and, when the Edwards found out the trolley business was for sale, they decided it would be an interesting and fun business to develop.

Since those early days the business has expanded and now offers transportation to many interesting destinations in the area, including White Oak Conservation Center, the island

lighthouse, Kingsley Plantation, and American Beach. The trolleys also offer transportation for weddings, corporate events and special occasions. The Ritz-Carlton often uses the trolleys to transport their guests downtown or to island restaurants.

As the trolley business has grown, new tours have been added. Two historic tours are available. The basic historic district tour is offered Monday through Saturday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. This tour is an hour and half and takes you to Old Town, Main Beach, and the Historic District. Some days the tour includes a surprise visit to the Burbank Sport Net Company. Originally, the Burbank family hand-tied nets that were used on the shrimp boats going out of Fernandina. The company has adapted and now makes sports nets for professional and college venues.

Everyone loves a ghost tour, and Amelia Island Trolley offers one Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings at 8 p.m. The ghost trolley offers stories about the ghosts that still haunt some of the historic homes and businesses in Fernandina Beach. Learn about Uncle Charlie, who is said to still haunt the Palace Saloon, or the ghost of Mrs. Druyee, who watches for island pets from the bay window of a historic house.

Trolleys leave from a convenient area at the base of Centre Street at the waterfront (near Brett’s Waterway Café). You can’t miss their distinctive silhouettes either in their familiar parking spot, or as they conduct their popular tours up and down and across the downtown area. Tours prices start at $18 for adults and $11 for children. For more information, call (904) 7434486 or go to www.ameliaislandtrolleys.com.

64 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2012

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Celebrating the Journey. FulďŹ lling the Promise.

At our Senior Care Centers, our promise is to help each of our residents achieve their full physical and emotional potential.

Our experienced and compassionate staff is devoted to fulďŹ lling that promise to our residents, and our community, each and every day.

If you would like to learn more or take a guided tour of one of our Senior Care Centers, please call 912-466-2144.

Accepting new residents!

Quality Health Care Close to Home

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$ILWORTH 3TREET s 3T -ARYS '!

SGHS ORG Resident Arie Glover and Liz Brown, CNA Š 2012 SGHS

Southeast Georgia Health System is a tobacco-free organization.

5/2012