Amelia Islander - June 2013

Amelia

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

JUNE 2013

Viva Florida 500!

Florida Celebrates 500 Years of History and Diversity

plus: FERNANDINA FACES • GREAT HOMES OF FERNANDINA • BACKYARD ADVENTURE

Join Suntex Boat Club on Amelia Island!

We Provide the Boats, You Provide the Fun! Forget About

Membership Includes

Loan Payments Insurance Payments Registration Fees (Boat & Trailer) Slip Rental / Storage Fees Equipment and Outfitting Maintenance & Repairs Towing and Launching Cleaning

Unlimited Use of Our Top of the Line Boats Guaranteed Online Reservations Water Toys and Fishing Equipment Life Jackets in All Sizes Boat Safety Training Boating Privileges at Other Locations Friends and Family Welcome A Fraction of the Cost of Owning a Boat

Join Suntex Boat Club!

Amelia Island Yacht Basin – 251 Creekside Drive - Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

www.suntexboatclub.com/amelia 904.572.3216 Call for Tours and Pricing Corporate, Shared, Limited Use and Off-Season Memberships Available

Boat and Waverunner Rentals also Available

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN Fernandina Beach NEW LOCATION!

Historic Downtown 402 Centre Street Fernandina Beach, FL 32234

261-2501

Ladies Apparel • Accessories Gifts with a Twist

Where the locals meet.

Espresso • Panini • Dessert Bar Enjoy homemade soups & fresh breads made in our own kitchen every day.

202 Centre Street Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach

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

(904) 277-4880 • www.lindysjewelry.com

Ancient coins • Fossils • Persian carpets Sterling jewelry • Antiquities • Beads • Collectibles & gifts

316-c Centre Street | Fernandina Beach

904-261-8225

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

AMELI LIA’S Treasure Home Furnishings Ladies Accessories Fine Gifts 216 Centre Street

904-277-6626 Stop in and find your treasure!

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Needlepoint June Trunk Show Colors of Praise 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

811 S 8th Street •Amelia Island

904.415.0303

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204 Centre Street • (904) 277-1162

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

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

Private Wealth Management.

CURTISS H. LASSERRE Real Estate, Inc.

Private Banking • Financial Planning Trusts & Estates • Retirement Investment Management

Residential - Commercial Rentals

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

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

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.

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.

THE

Call or come by today for more info.

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

Amelia Island

DESTINATION DESTIN TINATION® BRACELET BRACE

RECOGNIZED BY LOCALS AND LOYAL VISITORS ALIKE AS

Pet Grooming • Shuttle Service Boarding & Interactive Daycare

THE SYMBOLIC TREASURE OF AMELIA ISLAND!

ALL SPA 5 OFF SERVICES

$

A likeness of the Amelia Island Lighthouse forms a subtle

904-277-3075 • hotpaws.org

“A”, which grasps an “I” reminiscent of an old kedge anchor,

SUPPORT LOCAL SHELTERS!

and together echoes a heritage born of the sea. The 8 wraps of 14 karat gold symbolize the eight national flags that have flown over Amelia Island.

© 2011 Montesino Int’l Corp.

All rights Reserved The Original Bracelet Company ®

An original signature design by Mitchell Ousley for THE DESTINATION® BRACELET COLLECTION

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

WE BUY GOLD • WE CONSIGN & SELL ESTATE JEWELRY 2 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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3 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

“

Amelia

ISLANDER

Captivated by the colorful flowers he encountered—as so many are even today —Juan Ponce de Leon named this place “La Florida” in 1513 after the Spanish flor, or flower.

Philip Kelly Deana Basile Kelly Publishers and Editors Tom Barrett Art Director Mark O’Day Advertising Sales Contributing Writers Dickie Anderson, Theresa Duncan, Kate Harris, Nan Kavanaugh, Karen Miller, Betty Morrell, Julie Simmons

”

When Juan Ponce de Leon landed in Florida 500 years ago, he may not have been the first European to set foot on these shores, since Viking explorers and other Europeans had explored the Atlantic coast while working the rich North Atlantic fishing grounds, but Ponce de Leon was the first to document his landing and name the new territory.

Captivated by the colorful flowers he encountered—as so many are even today—he named this place “La Florida,” after the Spanish flor, or flower. While Timucuan Indians had been in present-day Florida for perhaps 12,000 years, the arrival of the Spanish marked a new era in Florida’s history, and in the history of the United States of America. After the Spanish claim, the French and English would also travel to North America to settle this rich new land. But the beginning of our nation’s rich heritage, exemplified in our mix of different peoples and cultures, began here in Florida over one hundred years before the Pilgrims set out across the Atlantic to settle in what would become Plymouth, Massachusetts.

Since Florida was discovered by Ponce de Leon in 1513, its native inhabitants have watched the Spanish come, followed by the French, the English, enslaved Africans, American colonists from Georgia, and many more peoples, all of whom have left their mark on the state, making Florida in many ways a microcosm of the greater American nation. This year, the State of Florida is commemorating Ponce de Leon’s landing in Florida with a year-long celebration called Viva Florida 500, commemorating Florida’s history, its people, and its cultural achievements with more than 200 events across the state. In our cover story this month, Karen Miller looks at this statewide initiative and the significant Spanish influences on Amelia Island. Mark your calendars for the Viva Florida 500 Celebration on the island in Old Town on September 27 and 28, with a full line-up of fun and informative events, and, in the meantime, check out the Viva Florida 500 web site and raise a glass of sangria to Florida’s rich cultural history.

Elsewhere in this issue, we take a look at the latest effort by The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island to find the finest organic produce for their discriminating guests. In order to provide the freshest organic honey, the hotel offered accommodations to a few thousand honeybees, and the results have been spectacular. We also have a “Fernandina Faces” profile of Phyllis Davis, executive director of the Amelia Island Museum of History; a “Great Homes of Fernandina” feature from Dickie Anderson on the Williams House; a jet ski “Backyard Adventure;” and much more.

See you around the island!

4 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

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 2013 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

JUNE2013

features

11 Cover Story VIVA FLORIDA 500

To celebrate Juan Ponce de Leon’s arrival in the New World at “La Florida” 500 years ago in 1513, the State of Florida has launched a statewide initiative to commemorate Florida’s rich history and diverse cultural heritage.

31 Fernandina Faces

37 Sweet on Honey

Amelia Island is blessed with both a wonderful museum of history and a passionate guardian of the island’s many stories in Executive Director Phyllis Davis.

Always on the lookout for the finest organic produce, The RitzCarlton, Amelia Island decided to offer accommodations to a few thousand honeybees.

43 Great Homes of Fernandina The Williams House, an antebellum home with a striking porch, original wrought-iron fence, and rich history, is now a luxurious bed-and – breakfast inn.

68 Backyard Adventure If you’ve dreamed of flying over the waves to Cumberland Island and greeting a playful pod of dolphins on the way home, Flying Fish Adventures is for you.

Amelia

ISLANDER JUNE 2013 • VOLUME 26 • NUMBER 5

5 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

JUNE2013

inside 22

ABOUT THE COVER

29

45

22

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

24

Galleries & Antiques Amelia’s art galleries & antique stores

26

In the Neighborhood Profiles of area businesses and organizations

29

Beach Combing Great shopping on Amelia Island

32

Maps of the Island and downtown, with telephone numbers

33

Tide Table Tides at the Amelia River

35

Around Town What’s happening around Amelia Island

38

Snapshots Islanders out and about

45

In the Garden The “Black and Blue” anise-scented sage is a beautiful and fragrant addition to your landscape.

47

Island Home For a total renovation of their Amelia Island Plantation home, Stephanie Goldberg turned to Julia Hall Interiors with stunning results.

54 A direct descendant of Ponce de Leon, John Browne Ayes of Kissimmee, re-enacts the historic landing during ceremonies marking the 500th anniversary.

Photo courtesy of FLORIDA TODAY.

Eating Scene Offering an eclectic array of hot and cold tapas and mouthwatering entrees, Don Quixote’s serves the flavors of Spain and Portugal.

59

Open House Premium real estate offerings on and around Amelia Island

Amelia

ISLANDER JUNE 2013 • VOLUME 26 • NUMBER 5

6 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

54

7 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Take a vacation from the mall.

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 paddleboard tour.

EVENTS & SPECIALS EVERY FRI

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EVERY SAT

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BEST IN JAX

Marché Burette recognized by Jacksonville Magazine

Enjoy shrimp, corn, potatoes, onions and kielbasa sausage. $16/adult, $11/child. I (904) 491–4834

Ja JJacksonville Magazine readers voted Marché Burette as Amelia favorite takeout restaurant for 2013! I (904) 491–4834 IIsland’s Is l la

Visit thingstodoataip.com to sign up for our e-club!

Located at Omni Amelia Island Plantation 6800 First Coast Highway UÊ Amelia Island, FL 32034 (904) 261- 6161 UÊ omniameliaislandplantation.com 8 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

S H O P P I N G

BU Y

D E S I G N E R J E W E L R Y

Celebrating 20+ Years serving Amelia Island and 3 years BEST OF THE BEST Consignment Shop

Hours: 10-5:30 Mon-Fri • 10-5 Sat Sunday 12-4

ResaleRocks

Fifis.Amelia A Proud Member of

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Dreaming Up the Ideal Retirement Is Your Job. Helping You Get There Is Ours.

It’s simple, really. How well you retire depends on how well you plan today. Whether retirement is down the road or just around the corner, the more you work toward your goals now, the better prepared you can be.

Preparing for retirement means taking a long-term perspective. We recommend buying quality investments and holding them because we believe that’s the soundest way we can help you work toward your goals. At Edward Jones, we spend time getting to know your retirement goals so we can help you reach them.

To learn more about why Edward Jones makes sense for you, call or visit today.

Pamela S Brown Financial Advisor

Serving Nassau County for 23 years!

11 North 4th Street Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 904-277-2466 www.edwardjones.com

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

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

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45390 Green Street Callahan 904-879-1223

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

Member SIPC

RIVER CITY MARKETPLACE Jacksonville, FL 32218 (904) 757-5550

Come see pods of dolphins and the wild horses of Cumberland Island while having fun on your own jet ski. Guided jet ski tours leave from the city marina in downtown Fernandina Beach.

Choose from one, two or three hour guided tours. Call today to make your reservations.

www.FlyingFishFun.com 904-583-3420

9 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

100%

COTTON GAUZE

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Duette® Architella® Renewal™ fabric contains over 25% recycled materials— it’s the newest “green” addition to the Architella line. The fabric’s inherent texture is enhanced with a subtle reÅectivity, making it a radiant choice for superior energy efÄciency.

ROWLAND’S U P H O L S T E RY P L U S

313 Centre Street (904) 261-0311 www.Cottonways.com

Open Mon thru Thurs 9 to 5:30 Fri 9 to 5 • Sat 10 to 3 1120 South 8th St. • 904-261-5842 www.RowlandsUpholsteryPlus.com

For tax credit details and restrictions and a list of qualifying products, see the Manufacturer’s CertiÄcation Statement and FAQs at hunterdouglas.com/taxcredit.

Hunter Douglas and its dealers are not tax advisors. Consult a tax professional regarding your individual tax situation and ability to claim a tax credit related to the purchase of the qualifying Duette Architella honeycomb shades. © 2013 Hunter Douglas. ® Registered trademark of Hunter Douglas.

Introducing Ivory Key...

Now in our Showroom!

• Over 6,000 square feet of brightly lit space • More than 40 dealers displaying their specialties • Outdoor patio filled with garden pots, iron décor and yard art • Complimentary coffee, lemonade and treats, and good music.

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

1112 South 14th Street •Amelia Island 904.261.6333 • www.lottsfurniture.com 10 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm • Sun: 12pm - 5pm 201 Alachua Street Corner of N. Second and Alachua Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach

904.432.7048 www.AmeliaIslander.com

Viva Florida 500!

Florida Celebrates 500 Years of History and Diversity

BY KAREN MILLER

O

VER

100

YEARS BEFORE

WILLIAM BRADFORD

AND HIS

MAYFLOWER

PILGRIMS

FOUNDED THE PLYMOUTH COLONY IN PRESENT-DAY MASSACHUSETTS, FLORIDA WAS ALREADY IN FULL SWING. IT WAS

1513 WHEN SPANISH EXPLORER Juan Ponce de León arrived on Florida’s east coast, and this year, 2013, marks the 500th anniversary of that event. What makes this anniversary so unique is that Ponce de León’s convoy of explorers was the first group of Europeans to document such a landing in the New World and bestow a name their discovery—La Florida. While Florida’s Native American heritage dates back more than 12,000 years, Spain’s claim in 1513 began a new era.

With 500 years of history, nature, and diverse cultural heritage—a claim no other state in America can make—Florida is celebrating with Viva Florida 500, a statewide initiative which promotes the place where the world’s cultures began to come together into the great nation we know today as the United States of America. The Viva Florida 500 commemoration is ongoing throughout 2013, and includes more than 200 events across the state. The goal is to promote 500 years of Florida’s history—its people, environment, and cultural achievements—and this important milestone in American and Florida history.

11 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF THE AMELIA ISLAND MUSEUM OF HISTORY

The Spanish Influence and Diverse History of Old Town and Fernandina

Top: Old Town plat map dated 1811.

Middle: View of Old Town from the pilot lookout tower looking south toward the harbor.

Above: 1920’s view of Old Town looking south from Egan’s Creek.

While it is believed that Timucuan Indians lived on the bluff that is today called Old Town as many as two thousand years ago, Old Town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places due to its Spanish city grid plan, which is based on the 1573 “Law of the Indies.” Unlike most historic districts, Old Town does not claim numerous significant historic buildings.

Instead, it is the Spanish-style plat itself which is important.

Developed under the rule of King Phillip II, the “Law of the Indies” contained 148 principles governing the planning and development of Spanish towns in the Americas. The rules provided guidelines for the town’s location, lot dimensions, and public space among other things and were utilized throughout the tth he Spanish Sp panish Empire in the New World. Old Town was platted formally in 1811, only a decade before Spain ceded f Florida to the United States in 1821. Due to its late F founding in the history of the Spanish presence f in i Florida and subsequent abandonment by U.S. settlers of the island, Old Town remains one of the s last l and purest examples of the “Law of the Indies” planning edict. p Old Town was a booming center of trade between 1807 and 1818, and its strategic location b between Spanish Florida and the newly formed b United States made it a highly desirable and often U dangerous place, as evidenced by the 8 flags which d have h flown over the island, many during this period.

Between 1784 and 1821, people from Spain and B the t Spanish colonies, France, Scotland, Germany, Greece, Ireland, England, and Switzerland, people G of o African descent, and citizens of the newly created United States lived and owned property in Old U Town.

Leon Duvignean, a French baker, had a store T there.

Francisco De Salas of Torre Guemada, old Castille, Spain t had h an inn and restaurant near the plaza. A German doctor opened the first non-military hospital in Florida. And Anna o Wiggins, a free black woman and mother of Jenny and Isabel, W owned a half-lot and earned her living as a seamstress, along o with w a number of other free black men and women whose names and property are fully documented in the East Florida n Papers of the Archive of the Indies housed in Seville, Spain.

P The T Spanish were extraordinary record keepers, and one of the fascinating things about property in Old Town is that one can f trace ownership back to this period. t Old Town’s city plan originally featured a mixed-use arrangement of commercial and residential functions quite typical in a Spanish or European town. Under the Law of the Indies, the most important civic, religious, and commercial buildings were located around Plaza San Carlos, named for

12 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

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Your Gateway to

Amelia Island

Tiffany T Tiff T. Shaw h Selling Real Estate in Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach

904.335.0583 www.TiffanyTShaw.com Tiffany@TiffanyTShaw.com

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

13 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

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Gina Carra, “FLOR 333: Nuttall’s Thistle (Cirsium nuttallii),” 2012. (CC)

the fort that once stood beyond it and no longer exists. In fact, until 1926, a church and several institutional buildings were located on plaza lots following this prescription, but they too have disappeared. Today, Old Town is primarily a residential neighborhood.

Jennifer and Michael Harrison have lived in Old Town for 10 years, embracing the fascinating history of Old Town and Fernandina. They recently presented a program to the General Duncan Lamont Clinch Historical Society called Fernandina: Bookends to Viva Florida 500, which featured three sagas in Fernandina’s history that mirrored changes in the evolving relationship between Spain and Florida over the past 500 years.

Their presentation included 1686 – Missions & Misery; 18101817 – Chaos in Fernandina; and 1895 – The Fernandina Plan.

The couple has also produced a brochure about Old Town, which is available at the informational kiosk located at the entrance to Old Town.

Xavier Cortada, Florida Mangrove, 2003 (www.cortada.com)

Flor500 Celebrates La Florida in Flowers

Morri Simms, “FLOR 180: Bluejacket (Tradescantia ohiensis),” 2012. (CC)

Last month, the Friends of the Library in Fernandina Beach jumped onto the Viva Florida 500 bandwagon with a luncheon and program featuring environmental artist Xavier Cortada entitled Flor500. Cortada serves as artist-in-residence at Florida International University, where his long-standing commitments to eco-art projects engage the community and expose human impact on the environment.

Flor500 is a participatory art, nature, and history project created by the Miami artist to commemorate Florida’s quincentennial in 2013. The project marks the importance of the moment when the history of our state changed forever and gives us a glimpse of what its landscape was like 500 years ago.

Five hundred Floridians have been invited to depict 500 native wildflowers, the same ones that grew in our state when

14 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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

Coastal Trader

Girlfriend Gifts • Jewelry Home Decor • Beach Bags Casual Clothing

FREE GIFT

for 1st Time Shoppers

2245 Sadler Road Fernandina Beach 1/4 mile from the beach

15 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

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Below: Part of a Spanish ship found off the coast of Amelia Island.

Middle: Painting of the San Miguel by Gregory Willis of Fernandina Beach.

Bottom: Spanish coins found on an expedition by Amelia Research & Recovery.

Juan Ponce de Leon landed in 1513 and named it “La Florida”, from “flor,” the Spanish word for flower. A team of scientists is selecting the 500 flowers. The artwork, along with information about each flower, will be posted on the project’s website.

Students from 500 schools across the state’s 67 counties (in 8 regions) will then plant 500 wildflower gardens dedicating them to one of 500 important Floridians selected by a team of historians. These 500 new native habitats will help support Florida’s biodiversity.

Amelia Research & Recovery Digs History, and Treasure Amelia Research & Recovery has been finding 500 years of of treasures tre reassures es in in around a ound Amelia Island for almost 25 years, ar using their 71-foot lift boat called u the t Polly-L. They’ve been on Amelia Island since 1989, when they began I their quest to locate the San Miguel, t a Spanish galleon, and several other Spanish ships that sank off the coast S of o Amelia Island. The treasure hunters are a also the operators of the Maritime Museum of Amelia Island, where M many of the Spanish artifacts reside. m Billy Taylor, vice president and docent of the museum, is enthusiastic d about Florida’s maritime history, the a Viva V Florida 500 celebration, and the numerous items that have been found n in i and around the area, both on land and a in the waters. “We want to bring the t treasures to the people, so they can c witness a bit of history. But, more importantly, impo im poort p r an antl tlyy everything tl eve v ry ryth thin th ingg that in t we do to get these treasures, we do ethically,” says Taylor. “Archeology and preservation of the environment is the most important thing to us.” He goes on to say that the Polly-L is an environmentally “green” vessel, which boasts a reverse osmosis fresh water maker and hydraulic fuel that is biodegradeable vegetable oil.

The museum’s president is Doug Pope, Scott Jensen is their archeologist, and Ed Gavron, the museum’s secretary, gives special group tours. The museum features numerous Spanish coins, cannonballs, a Spanish jeweler’s furnace, a 43-pound silver bar, and many more artifacts, all found from Spanish galleons. A hand-painted map on the wall of the museum shows the trade routes that the Spanish ships used.

16 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

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17 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Coincidently, the Polly-L is set to head out on another excursion at the south end of Amelia Island this month, still searching for the San Miguel and more artifacts, in the same year that Florida is celebrating its 500 years of Spanish history.

Viva Florida 500 Weekend Celebration in Old Town, September 27and 28

Top: Plaque marking the location of Fort San Carlos, built after the Spanish retook Amelia in 1813.

Above: Old Town as it looks today. The open field at the front was the site of the Plaza San Carlos.

A Viva Florida 500 Celebration on Amelia Island will begin this fall on Friday, September 27, with the opening of a new exhibit at the Amelia Island Museum of History, which will highlight the bond between Spain and Florida. At this event, the Museum will be hosting guest lecturer Dr. Michael Francis, who will present a program entitled Murder and Martyrdom in Spanish Florida: Don Juan and the Guale Uprising of 1597.

In 1597, I the the llate atee falll ooff 159 at 15 59 Guale Indians murdered five Franciscan friars stationed in their territory and razed f their missions to the ground. The 1597 t Guale Uprising, or Juanillo’s Revolt, as it is G often labeled, brought the missionization o of o Guale territory to an abrupt end and a threatened Florida’s newly installed governor with the most significant crisis of g his h term.

Saturday, September 28th, will consist of o numerous events held at Old Town, the t original site platted by the Spanish in 1811. These events are free and open to the public and, based on funding, will include p the t placement of a Spanish cannon at the site s of Fort San Carlos, with interpretive panels; the identification of the Fort San p Carlos layout with surface markings; C and a a Spanish peonia, a homestead with livestock, plants, and interpreters who will l bring alive the various perspectives of the b people who lived during this exciting time p in off Fernandina. i the h history hi F The event will also feature an archeological dig, Old Fernandina Town Gate presentation, Spanish music and dancers, and a Middle Passage ceremony in remembrance of the many slaves who were lost while being transferred to the port of Fernandina.

18 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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19 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

RESOURCES Maritime Museum of Amelia Island 1335 South 8th Street Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 (904) 583-4364

Viva Florida 500 Official Web Site www.vivaflorida.org

FLOR500 Web Site www.xaviercortada.com

PHOT OTO O COURTESY COURTE COURTE URT SY OF OF VISIT VISIT V IT FLOR FLO IDA DA PHOTO FLORIDA

Amelia Island Museum of History 233 S. 3rd Street Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 (904) 261-7378

The T.T. Wentworth, Jr., Florida State Museum in historic Pensacola houses artifacts from Spanish exploration nearly 500 years ago.

PHOTO BY NAO VICTORIA FOUNDATION, COURTESY OF VISIT FLORIDA

Additional Saturday events will culminate with a ticketed dinner and lecture, where attendees will learn about and enjoy samplings of Spanish colonial food with special guest lecturer, Cathy Parker. “Food is more than the staff of life,” says Parker.

“It is an important part of our heritage and culture, which defines us as a people. Attendees will discover how information from the written historical record, together with evidence from the archaeological g record, has answered this question time after time, giving us a more complete picture of early t life l in La Florida.”

The T Th he El El G Galeón, aleó al eóón, a 175-foot eón 17517 5-fo 5f ott rreplica fo e li ep lica caa ooff a Sp SSpanish aan nissh ga ggalleon, lll eo eon n, w will i l be iin il n St. Augustine until June 9th for tours.

The Amelia Island Museum of History is also a working closely with the City of Fernandina Beach and the National Park Service to bring B the t Viva Florida 500 celebration to Amelia Island this year. Throughout the state of Florida, I you y will find numerous activities going on daily, weekly, and monthly, to help Floridians and w visitors get to know more about this vast and v fascinating state and its history. Dance, music, f exhibits, trail walks, lectures, and presentations e are a just some of the events going on throughout the t year. If you’re traveling around Florida in 2013, you may want to check out some of these 2 great events. g Spanish contributions to Florida in particular are deeply woven into the historic p tapestry of the beautiful Sunshine State, t though Florida’s cultural heritage is inextricably t connected to many nations. Viva Florida 500 will share the distinct flavor of Florida with the nation and the world this year, strengthening ties between the old and new worlds, both here on Amelia Island and across the state.

20 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Fighting cancer— you need all the help you can get.

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21 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE www.AmeliaIslander.com Southeast Georgia Health System is 2013 a tobacco-free organization.

9/2012

everything Amelia P E OP LE ,

P LA CE S,

HI STO RY

&

M O R E

MINDI ABAIR AND ROYAL CROWN REVUE TO HEADLINE THE 2013 AMELIA ISLAND JAZZ FESTIVAL

LA CHAINE DES ROTISSEURS FORMS NEW BAILLIAGE ON AMELIA ISLAND The ancient guild known as La Chaine des Rotisseurs is the oldest and largest food and wine society in the world. The United States chapter is now in its 53rd year, with about 6,000 gourmands, chefs, restaurateurs, hoteliers, oenologists, winery owners, sommeliers, and others interested in the finest of dining and life experiences.

Throughout 2012, Garry Fehrman, Gary Snyder, and Ross Griffin, all longtime members of La Chaine, applied their passions to delivering a series of events known as La Chaine Experience, to expose Amelia Island residents to the society’s activities and traditions.

Recently, their efforts were rewarded by the formation of a new bailliage, with 30 founding members. The chapter expects to increase its membership this year, capping it at 75 members to enable its use of as many island hospitality venues as possible. Inductees enjoyed a five-course dinner skillfully prepared by Chef Ed Bennett held at The Golf Club of Amelia Island. Snyder, the Bailliage’s new Vice Conseiller Gastronomique, wrapped up dinner with a toast to new Bailli Fehrman and new Vice Echanson Griffin, applauding their commitment to La Chaine’s traditions and their success in introducing La Chaine to Amelia Island.

Best-selling jazz-fusion alto saxophonist Mindi Abair and popular swing masters, The Royal Crown Revue, are set to headline the 2013 Les DeMerle Amelia Island Jazz Festival. A hugely successful performer who has sold over a half-million albums as a solo artist, Abair will appear on Saturday, October 12, at the Omni Hotel & Resort at Amelia Island Plantation. The Royal Crown Revue, who are often credited with leading the swing music revival of the 1990’s, will perform on Friday, October 11, also at the Omni. “We are very excited to have booked these world-class artists as headliners for this year,” says Jazz Festival Artistic Director Les DeMerle.

The festival, held October 6 - 13, will kick off its full week of musical events with a Dixieland Jazz Brunch, featuring DeMerle’s Spare Rib Six with vocalist Bonnie Eisele, at David’s Restaurant on October 6. That afternoon, the annual Amelia Park free concert will present the TGIF U.S. Navy Brass Band from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Additional events include Jazz At The Movies on Tuesday, October 8, featuring the inspirational documentary, “Chops;” Red White and Blues Night with the sensational blues group, Die Dra and the Ruff Pro Band; and Latin Jazz Night with the hot dance group, El Niño and the Latin Jazz Knights on Thursday. For more information, call (904) 504-4772 or visit www.ameliaislandjazzfestival.com.

GOOD TIMES IN THE HOSPITAL When Dr. James McCully is asked the question, “Are these stories really true?” the author says, “I could no more make up these parables from scratch than I could make a pearl from a grain of sand.” His new collection of nonfiction stories taken from his career in health care is called Good Times in the Hospital. The book is a collection of unlikely stories, poignant vignettes, and humorous anecdotes gathered from a lifetime of experience with real doctors and patients. As the setting moves from Duke University Medical School, to The Mayo Clinic, to an inner-city charity hospital, to a military hospital, to private hospitals in metropolitan centers and rural towns, this inside look at hospital life allows the reader to gradually gain a new perspective on medical men and women: They are not much different from the rest of us. “Doctors are no worse than other people,” McCully concludes.

McCully trained at Duke University School of Medicine and The Mayo Clinic before he practiced diagnostic radiology for 30 years in both large and small hospitals. He and his wife Marion—the same girl who paid his way through medical school with her teaching job—have been married for over 50 years, and live on Amelia Island. Good Times in the Hospital is available at The Book Loft on Centre Street and from www.amazon.com.

22 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

23 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

AMELIA ISLAND ANTIQUES 5210 First Coast Hwy • 321-1314

GALLERIES

a n t& iques

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

TRAILER PARK COLLECTIBLES

CASABLANCA 2188 Sadler Road • 415-1540 D’AGNESE CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY 205 1/2 Centre Street • 261-6044 or 556-2014 FIRST COAST COMMUNITY BANK GALLERY 1750 South 14th Street, 2nd floor • 277-5290 GALLERY C 218-B Ash Street • 583-4676 HUNT’S ART & ARTIFACT GALLERY 361 Centre Street • 261-8225

W

hen Susan McCarthy was a girl, her grandparents lived in a trailer park. “It was a nice place,” says McCarthy.

“I always remember how the neighbors and families would get together. I loved visiting them.” Those fond memories of trailer park life stayed with her through the years, so when McCarthy decided to open an antiques and collectibles shop in Fernandina Beach, Trailer Park Collectibles seemed like the perfect name.

McCarthy is no first-timer to business on Amelia Island, though.

She and her husband, Brian, owned the Down Under Restaurant for many years. And, although she loved the restaurant business, Susan knew she had a knack for shopping at thrift shops and estate sales. She opened up Trailer Park Collectibles on Alachua Street six years ago, and four years ago she moved the business to Centre Street, where she has taken over the building that was formerly Eileen’s Art and Antiques. McCarthy has three-quarters of the space, and Roxy’s Five and Dime shares the rest.

For McCarthy, her enthusiasm and her passion for antiques quickly

drew her many regular customers and consigners. Today, she has 35 vendors who sell antiques and collectibles in her store, and Trailer Park is one of the busiest shops on Centre Street. And why are so many people buying older furniture and decorative items these days? “People don’t want to walk into a furniture store and buy new things that other people already have,” says McCarthy. “They want to decorate their homes as they please, using things that reflect their own personalities and lifestyles.” She goes on to say that shoppers like to haggle a bit when it comes to antiques, and getting a bargain makes the item even more of a treasure.

McCarthy also offers space in her shop to Noah’s Ark and Cat’s Angels for a very low rental fee. These two non-profit thrift shops can move some premier items to Trailer Park to get a better chance of sales in McCarthy’s busy store. “We sold a genuine Florida Highwaymen painting for $2,000. That money went to a homeless coalition,” says McCarthy.

For more information, call (904) 491-4461 or visit their website at www.trailerparkcollectibles.com.

24 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

ISLAND ART ASSOCIATION COOPERATIVE GALLERY 18 North 2nd Street • 261-7020 ISLAND TREASURES 1104 South 8th Street • 261-8887 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 Street • 277-1147 WATERWHEEL GALLERY 819 South 8th Street • 261-2535

www.AmeliaIslander.com

galleries & antiques

ISLAND e Antiques e Furniture e Treasures e Books e Garden Decor

702 Centre Street 904.491.4461 Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

n o J an

S

Gallery

F I N E A RT (Between Harris Teeter & Amelia Island Plantation)

321-1314

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

door artists

gallery & working studios

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

1104 S. 8th St. • Fernandina Beach (904) 261-8887

Amelia

5210 First Coast Highway

[ ] blue

MEAD’S

FRAMERY & TROPHY STORE

COMPLETE CUSTOM FRAMING AT AFFORDABLE PRICES Custom Framing since 1970 100’s of framed and unframed prints Member of Professional Picture Framers Association Awards For All Occasions

218A Ash Street Mon-Sat 10:30-5 Sun 10-4 or by appointment 904-491-8040 • 904-557-1195

225-2195 Corner of A1A & Hwy 17 • Yulee

A1A

HWY 17

Trailer Park Collectibles

N

AMELIA

COMMUNITY

THEATRE ART GALLERY Over 50 Local Artists ART CLASSES

FATHER OF THE BRIDE June 13-15, 20-22, 27-29 at 8 pm June 23 Matinee at 2 pm

For all ages at our Education Center

Go to www.islandart.org for events and class schedules.

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

AMELIA AUDIOLOGY Don’t Miss out on Life’s Great Conversations

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

904-491-1515 www.AmeliaAudiology.com

Fine art photographs can be seen at Amelia SanJon Gallery, The Island Art Association, The Omini Plantation Guild and Gallery, BarZin Restaurant and Wines by Steve on First Coast Highway.

Steve Leimberg

25 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

904.491.0474 unseenimages.com

in the neighborhood

K

PHOTOS BY WILLIAM RASER

Twisted Sisters

Q

uality Health is a short- and long-term care facility with a concerned and gifted staff. The care-givers at Quality Health understand that when a patient needs care, it is important to be able to stay in their home town, or close to relatives, where one can continue to be cared for by a local doctor and have family nearby. By working closely with other healthcare groups on the island, Quality Health is able to provide as many local services as possible for their residents.

Quality Health’s Administrator, Stephen Jordan, has been working at the facility for five years after moving to Amelia Island from Albany, Georgia with his wife and two daughters. The couple has since had a little boy. Jordan’s experience in the medical field spans nearly twenty years.

“I really enjoy my work and feel like it is one of the most rewarding jobs available,” says Jordan. “I love the interaction with the patients and their families, and greatly appreciate the involvement of the local community in helping to provide the best care available.”

Quality Health offers short-term rehabilitation and longterm nursing care, and it is the only skilled nursing facility on the island. Since 1984, they have provided physical, occupational, and speech therapy, with a nursing staff on site 24 hours a day. They also offer activities, dietary and social services, and a beauty shop for their patients. For more information, call (904) 261-0771 or visit their website at www.qualityhealthamelia.com.

im Holwell opened Twisted Sisters after her father passed away in 2004. Her first store was located in Tifton, Georgia.

She knew she had a passion for creating a store that carried women’s accessories, apparel, and gifts, and the passing of her father made her realize that it was time to fulfill her dream. In October 2005, Holwell opened a new Twisted Sisters on Amelia Island, and she knew then it was the right decision. “When I crossed that bridge to move to Fernandina Beach, I felt like I was coming home,” says Holwell. “I got the kids into school here, I opened my shop, and everything just came together.”

Holwell wanted her store to be different. “I wanted a fun, eclectic, twisted, happy place, that would make my customers happy when they shopped here,” said Holwell. And happy they are, too, because that’s what so many of Holwells’ customers say when they come into the store. Holwell has stayed true to her original plan. She likes to do her own thing, and she shops for items at other markets that other gift stores don’t go to. She searches out the most unique items she can find, concentrating on things that are made in the USA. She has nine staff people now, and their energetic personalities are right in tune with Holwell’s lively character.

Their new location on Centre Street has eleven enormous windows that showcase their artsy and out of the ordinary merchandise. More room and private parking makes Twisted Sisters even more, well, twisted… and fun! For more information call, (904) 261-2501 or visit them on Facebook.

Quality Health

The staff at Quality Health

26 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Welcome to

New Antique Shipment

SEABREEZE Amelia!

An Island Tradition for 34 Years!

English and French Antiques We’ve Moved!

Come see us at Suite 1, Palmetto Walk!

904-277-0607 We Offer Unique Gifts, Art, and Collectibles Ranging from Local Artists to Exotic Destinations!

We buy any Gold and Silver!

Unique Antique Smalls • Home Accessories & Gifts Outdoor & Upholstered Furniture (904) 261-2030

www.theplantationshop.com

New Expansion NOW OPEN! Additional indoor dining. Additional banquet facility.

Thank you for your continued patronage! lunch ~ tues - sat 11:30 - 2 lunch/brunch ~ sun 11:30 - 2 happy hour ~ tues - sat 4 - 6 dinner ~ tues - sat 5:30 - 10

select wines / craft beers local artisan cheeses & charcuterie saketini’s / american bistro cuisine alfresco dining / private dining

4924 ½rst coast highway 904.310.6620 • www.barzin-bistro-winebar.com palmetto walk shopping village

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

321-2430

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

www.fernlily.com • 904.310.9351 Mon-Sat 10-5 • Sun 11-5

PALMETTO WALK

SHOPPING VILLAGE

Clothing - Jewelry - Accessories Shoes - Handbags - Gifts

SIMPLY

STUNNING

DIANE

Lounge Opens at 4PM Dinner Daily at 5PM

PAGE

Reservations Recommended! ¹¹¹ PRIVATE EVENTS ¹¹¹ Private wine room up to 12 guests.

Banquet Room up to 50 guests.

Live Music Tuesday – Sunday ÇÇÇ Full Bar & Martini Menu Casual Resort Attire

~ SEA GLASS ~ COLLECTION

Prime Cut Meat & Wagyu Specials Fresh Local Fish Dover Sole & Truffle Scallops Desserts & Breads made on Premise Complimentary Valet Parking Fri-Sat 802 Ash Street Amelia Island, Florida 904-310-6049 www.AmeliaIslandDavids.com

SHELLY ANDERSON LOCAL, PERSONAL SERVICE

Nassau Diamond FINE JEWELRY

LIFE, LONG-TERM CARE, & MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT INSURANCE

Watches • Gifts

No 800 number - No Internet Nightmare One on One Personalized Service

Tuesday thru Saturday 9–5 1743 S. 8th Street (Across from Compass Bank)

For more information or to make an appointment, call (904) 556-6234 or email shellyanderson@comcast.net.

28 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

277-1993

www.AmeliaIslander.com

beach combing Summer Chic Fern Lily will keep you fashionable this summer with great items for the beach, like this Just Madras Tote bag ($140), which can store your summer necessities for a weekend getaway or just a day at the beach. Located in Palmetto Walk Shopping Village, 4856 First Coast Highway, (904) 310-9351. Follow them on Facebook for new arrivals during the summer.

Cool Shoes When you leave the beach, treat your feet to style and comfort this summer with these Surf Siders by Vans.

Available in a variety of colors and styles, like (from the left) the Rata ($47), the Dixie Slip-On, ($47), and the Chauffeur ($56). Available at Pipeline Surf Shop, 2022 First Avenue (corner of Sadler Road), (904) 277-3717.

Luxurious Leather Lemongrass is proud to announce that they now carry Frye handbags and footwear. A staple in premium leather goods, Frye’s unwavering attention to detail as well as its iconic styling can be experienced with this Cameron small satchel ($448) and Cameron wallet ($178). Located at 114 Centre Street, (904) 310-6718.

Comfort on Wheels New Stressless® office recliners give you the unmatched comfort of Stressless® while working at home or in the office. Like Stressless® recliners, they come in various styles and colors. Prices start at $1595. Save $300 off select office recliners from June 18 to August 12 at Lott’s Furniture, 1112 S. 14th Street, (904) 261-6333.

29 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

5

Imported from Detroit.

Distributed in Yulee.

POINTS LIQUOR

LORI BROWN

Svedka Vodka

Office Manager

(All Flavors)

Lori has worked with many

1.75L $17.99

customers during her 20 years working at Rick Keffer, Dodge,

Jose Cuervo 750mL $15.99

SALE

Chrysler Jeep Ram dealership.

6/1/13 to 6/30/13 Starting as a cashier, Lori has

Crown Bacardi Royal Rum 1.75L Lt. & Dk. $38.99 1.75L $19.99

worked her way up and is now Office Manager. Lori is part of the Keffer team that prides itself in providing the very best in personalized service.

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

30 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

261-3640

fernandina faces

Phyllis Davis

BY DICKIE ANDERSON PHOTO BY WILLIAM RASER

L

ittle did Phyllis Davis know while growing up in Fernandina Beach that one day she would be the executive director of the Amelia Island Museum of History. Her energy and commitment have brought many innovations to the popular local museum. She modestly credits her staff and crew of volunteers, whom she says are quick to offer their knowledge and talents to the needs of the museum.

Accepting the job in 2009 was a dream come true. Davis found Fernandina Beach a great place to grow up. There was the safety of a small town and enough visitors to keep her eyes open to a bigger world. You couldn’t get away with much, she remembers. If you got into trouble, your mother already knew by the time you arrived home. She thanks her parents for her love of history. Every summer, the family would take an extended vacation visiting and stopping at every museum along the way.

Earning a degree in Art History and a minor in Accounting at Mercer University, Davis found her first job as assistant curator at the Jekyll Island Museum. She returned to Amelia Island and, most recently, was partner and office manager at GenChem International, a family-owned and operated environmental company.

Davis manages the island’s busy museum housed in the county’s historic jailhouse. She manages a staff of 3 fulltime and 3 part-time employees and over 200 community volunteers. She is quick to emphasize that the volunteers are the heart of the museum and without them it would be impossible to deliver the amazing variety of programs currently offered. “We have a small but enthusiastic staff that works hard and is deeply invested in the success of the

museum. Volunteers are crucial to our success. All of us consider ourselves part and parcel of the museum family,” says Davis.

The museum is especially proud of its recognition by Trip Advisor’s Certificate of Excellence. The award is handed out to only 10% of attractions listed on the popular travel website. In 2012, the Florida Humanities Council awarded the museum a grant to bring an exhibit to the Smithsonian as a part of their Museums on Main Street program.

Married to Stuart and proud mother of a step-daughter, daughter, and two grandchildren, Phyllis reports that the newest member of the family is an English bulldog named Luis, who sometimes accompanies her to the museum. She has recently started quilting, loves old movies, and jumps at any chance to travel. Phyllis is active in her community and is a member of the Rotary Club, the Historic Fernandina Beach Merchants Association, and Arts and Culture Nassau, as well as numerous museum professional organizations.

As she shares with me the latest in museum happenings, her enthusiasm is contagious. A focus on children has resulted in summer programs, free tours for all Nassau County school children, and, most recently, the Discovery Ship, an interactive exhibit. Each year, the museum also opens its doors and surrounding gardens for Community Appreciation Day. This year, Davis notes, Amelia Community Theatre will share in the annual open house, scheduled for July 20.

As she learned growing up, museums are our guardians of history and they share important stories from the past. On Amelia Island, we are blessed with an amazing museum, and Phyllis Davis is a passionate guardian of the island’s history.

31 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Downtown Points of Interest 1 2

16

Amelia Island Visitors Center ~ 277-0717 • Monday - Sunday, 10am - 4pm City Hall ~ 277-7305 • Police/Fire/Ambulance (Emergency 911.

Police non-emergency 277-7342. Fire non-emergency 277-7331 Amelia Community Theatre ~ 261-6749 Amelia Island Musuem of History ~ 261-7378 Public Library ~ 277-7365 Fernandina Harbor Marina ~ 491-2090 Post Office ~ 261-4848 Nassau County Courthouse ~ 321-5709 (Sheriff 911; non-emergency 225-0331) Fernandina Little Theatre ~ 277-2202

6 10 11 12 13 14 15

St. Michaels Catholic Church ~ 261-3472 First Presbyterian Church ~ 261-3837 Memorial United Methodist Church ~ 261-5769 Trinity United Methodist Church ~ 277-6859 St. Peter’s Episcopal Church ~ 261-4293 First Missionary Baptist Church ~ 261-4907 New Zion Missionary Baptist Church ~ 261-0010

3 4 5 7 8 9

Downtown Churches

32 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

JUNE 2013 TIDES AT THE AMELIA RIVER Day

Low

1 SAT 10:23 AM 10:55 PM 2 SUN 11:17 AM 11:55 PM 3 MON 4 TUE 5 WED 6 THU 7 FRI 8 SAT 9 SUN 10 MON 11 TUE

12:08 PM 12:50 AM 12:57 PM 1:42 AM 1:44 PM 2:31 AM 2:29 PM 3:16 AM 3:12 PM 3:57 AM 3:52 PM 4:36 AM 4:31 PM 5:12 AM 5:08 PM 5:48 AM 5:46 PM

12 WED 6:24 AM 6:25 PM 13 THU 7:02 AM 7:08 PM 14 FRI 7:44 AM 7:57 PM

Last Quarter New Moon First Quarter Full Moon

High

Day

3:56 AM 4:30 PM

15 SAT

4:53 AM 5:29 PM

16 SUN

5:49 AM 6:24 PM 6:43 AM 7:15 PM 7:32 AM 8:01 PM 8:18 AM 8:45 PM 9:02 AM 9:26 PM 9:44 AM 10:05 PM 10:25 AM 10:44 PM 11:05 AM 11:22 PM 11:45 AM

17 MON

12:00 AM 12:26 PM

25 TUE

8:29 AM 8:54 PM 9:19 AM 9:54 PM 10:12 AM 10:55 PM 18 TUE 11:06 AM 11:54 PM 19 WED 20 THU 21 FRI 22 SAT 23 SUN 24 MON

26 WED 12:39 AM 1:07 PM

Low

12:01 PM 12:53 AM 12:58 PM 1:51 AM 1:55 PM 2:48 AM 2:51 PM 3:42 AM 3:46 PM 4:34 AM 4:40 PM 5:25 AM 5:34 PM 6:17 AM 6:29 PM

27 THU 7:09 AM 7:26 PM

1:19 AM 1:50 PM

High

Day

2:01 AM 2:36 PM

28 FRI

2:47 AM 3:26 PM

29 SAT

3:38 AM 4:21 PM

30 SUN

Low 8:03 AM 8:27 PM 8:58 AM 9:30 PM 9:53 AM 10:31 PM

High

Come Stay at the Beach

1:43 AM 2:12 PM 2:35 AM 3:07 PM 3:27 AM 4:02 PM

4:34 AM 5:21 PM 5:35 AM 6:22 PM 6:36 AM 7:21 PM 7:36 AM 8:19 PM 8:35 AM 9:15 PM 9:32 AM 10:11 PM 10:29 AM 11:06 PM 11:26 AM 11:59 PM 12:22 PM

• Right Across from the Beach • Hot & Healthy Breakfast • Private Pool • Conveniently Located near Shopping and Dining

12:52 AM 1:18 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.

1997 South Fletcher Ave. Amelia Island, FL 32034 For Reservations, phone: 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.

(904) 206-5600

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

SPRING/SUMMER 2013 TOURS Amelia River Cruises offers daily narrated history and wildlife sightseeing tours of Cumberland Island and Amelia Island, featuring dolphins, manatees, wild horses, exotic birds and the rich history of northeast Florida and southeast Georgia.

Daily Nature / History Tours: 10:30 a.m. (2 hour) Tour • 2:30 p.m. (1 ½ hour) Tour Traditional Family Sunset Tour ~ (1 hour tour) Departure times vary seasonally BACK THIS YEAR!!!

Adult-Oriented Sunset/Twilight Tour ~ (2 hour tour) BYOB; live local entertainment April - June 8th; Sept. - Nov 23rd (Fri & Sat eves) June 10 - Aug 31st (Monday-Sat eves) Call for times of departure Interactive, Family-Friendly Eco-Tours ~ Drag an authentic Otter Trawl shrimp net.

View and learn about live catch onboard from our marine biologist June 10th – August 17th (Mon-Sat) Departs 10 a.m. for two hours

The best time is spent building a kingdom together.

In a time of theme-park extravaganzas, laser-light shows and a multitude of pricey souvenirs, sometimes it’s good to stop and remember what family vacation is truly about.

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.

Available for private charters and special events

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33 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

AmeliaRiverCruises.com

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www.AmeliaIslander.com

FOLLOW US TO THE PERFECT MORTGAGE. We’re happy to announce our move to EverBank. Here, we can offer you a broad selection of lending options at competitive rates. Great tools and faster closing times are just a few of the reasons we moved to EverBank.

Contact us to learn more Ben Stephens | NMLS ID: 640473 Meredith Lewis | NMLS ID: 664141 Bianca Rosado | NMLS ID: 1037420 904.572.4346 ameliateam@everbank.com ameliateam.com

Contact us to learn more

Call 904.572.4346

13ERM0145. NMLS ID: 399805 © 2013 EverBank. All rights reserved.

34 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

around town 2013

JUNE

JUNE 1, 2

JUNE 7 - 8

a historic property, it is not handicap accessible.

For more information call (904) 432-8330

Fort Clinch State Park holds a Living History Union Garrison the first weekend of each month as volunteers in Civil War-era attire portray daily life at the fort as it was in 1864. Soldiers will answer questions about being stationed at Fort Clinch, while visitors tour the fort and grounds.

Fees include the $6 per vehicle park entrance fee, plus $2 per person Fort admission. For more information, call 277-7274 or visit www.floridastateparks.org/fortclinch.

The Georgia Barbecue Association will host it’s Florida State Championship on June 7th - 8th here in Fernandina Beach. Dozens of the area’s best BBQ Pitmasters will battle it out to be the GBA’s first ever Florida State Champion!!! There will be great bbq for sale, live music, concessions, arts and crafts, a kid’s zone and much more! For a complete event schedule, visit fbeachbbq.com.

JUNE 13-15, 20-22, 27-29

Union Garrison at Fort Clinch State Park

GBA Goin Coastal BBQ Championships

JUNE 8

Second Saturday Artrageous Artwalk

JUNE 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Amelia Farmers’ Market Mingle with local farmers and business owners to find farm-direct fruits and vegetables, organic products, specialty foods, gourmet baked goods, plants, and more. The market is now located at The Shops at Omni Amelia Island Plantation.

Open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more info, visit www.ameliafarmersmarket.com.

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

JUNE 8

Gallery Reception

JUNE 2

Cabaret Concert The Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival wraps up their 2013 concert series with Cabaret Songs, Past and Present held at Omni Amelia Island Plantation at 7 p.m., featuring cabaret artist Sylvia McNair, piano and voice. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased online at aicmf.com.

JUNE 5, 19

Amelia Island Lighthouse Tours Guided tours of the lighthouse are held the first and third Wednesdays of every month at 10 a.m.

Cost is $5 for adults; $3 for children 12 and under. Tours are limited to 25. Participants should meet at the Atlantic Avenue Recreation Center, 2500 Atlantic Ave. Pre-registration is required 24 hours in advance. For more information, call the Fernandina Recreation Department at (904) 277-7350.

JUNE 6

Transitions Tips at Fifi’s Ladies are invited to join Deb Cottle, motivational speaker, transition coach, and author, on Thursday, June 6, 2013 at 6pm at Fifi’s Fine Resale (1853 S. 8th Street) to learn how to move through transitions more easily and effortlessly. Treats will be served, and please bring your own beach chair. The event is free, but an RSVP is requested no later than Tuesday, June 4, 2013 by calling (904) 277-4430.

JUNE 6-9

Fish N Fest Fernandina An informal gathering of anglers to share a fun, fishing adventure together. Held at Fernandina Harbor Marina, 1 North Front Street. For more information, call (404) 402-8329.

Joe Winston will be featured at Seventh Street Gallery, known for his large-scale sculptural ceramic and clay art pieces. He will also present work in other mediums including paintings, printmaking, and photography. The reception will be held from 5 to 8 p.m., at 14 South 7th Street in downtown Fernandina Beach. The show can also be viewed the following two Saturdays during the Farmers’ Market hours 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. As this is a historic property, it is not handicap accessible.

For more information call (904) 432-8330.

A popular movie, this is the funny and familiar comedy of a father at his wit’s end as his daughter’s wedding grows larger and more expensive by the day. All shows are at 8 p.m., with the exception of June 23, which is at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for students, and may be purchased online at www. ameliacommunitytheatre.org or by calling (904) 261-6749. Amelia Community Theatre is located at 207 Cedar Street.

JUNE 13

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 into the questions you haven’t thought of yet. Financial answers and ideas over a glass of wine. Begins at 5:30 p.m. For more information, please call (904) 305-2608.

JUNE 21

Third on 3rd The Amelia Island Museum of History offers a presentation on the third Friday of the month, based on a variety of different topics related 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 ameliamuseum.org.

JUNE 22

JUNE 8

Wine Tasting at Island Grove Wine Company Nassau Health Food is hosting a wine tasting at Florida’s own Island Grove Wine Company from 3 - 6pm. Island Grove specializes in fine blueberry wines using the freshest blueberries from their very own Florida plantations. Island Grove is located southeast of Gainesville in Alachua County. Island Grove blueberry wines are made from 100% blueberries with no grape juice or flavorings used and are very low in sulfites. They also produce several tantalizing fruit blends. For more information on the tasting, call (904) 277-3158.

JUNE 11

Book Signing and Reception Visit Seventh Street Gallery on June 11, 5-7 p.m., to meet local writer, Karen Miller, and view her new book, Succotash Dreams, a collection of personal stories and recipes. Taste some of Miller’s appetizers, which are featured in her book. The gallery is located at 14 South 7th Street in downtown Fernandina Beach. As this is

35 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

Father of the Bride

Jacksonville Triathlon Series The Jacksonville Olympic & Sprint Triathlon consists of three events in Fernandina Beach, a swim, bike, and run, both for new or experienced triathletes. Held at Main Beach Park at 7:30 a.m. For more information or to register, call (352) 637-2475.

JUNE 27

SunTrust Private Wealth Social An informal gathering of clients and friends is held the last Thursday of every month from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the SunTrust Private Wealth Management offices located at 5211 S. Fletcher Ave. Steve Raszkin of “A Taste of Wine by Steve” will be showcasing wines from Oregon, with hors d’oeuvres by Horizons.

Stop in to enjoy a glass of wine (or two) and nosh on some good conversation. No RSVP required. For more information, call Karen Perdue at (904) 491-5969 or email her at karen.perdue@suntrust.com.

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

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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.

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Our goal is to give the highest quality eye care with the friendliest service possible.

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Broker Associate

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m 904.753.0365 | o 904.277.6522 joe.cutajar@sothebysrealty.com

m 904.557.6501 | o 904.277.6522 susan.perry@sothebysrealty.com

5548 First Coast Highway, #101 | Amelia Island, Florida 32034 Each of½ce is independently owned and operated.

36 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

6 South 14th Street Fernandina Beach

(904) 261-5741 www.AmeliaIslander.com

For the finest hive-to-table honey, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island offers accommodations to a few thousand honeybees.

sweet on honey

BY MARY MAGUIRE • PHOTO BY WILLIAM RASER

B

ees. Thousands of them—make that hundreds of thousands of them—have recently made their home in the luxurious accommodations of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, invited by a discerning chef who’s always on the lookout for the freshest organic produce to use in his restaurants.

“We brought in four honey bee hives to the hotel last year, and now I’m using our honey in everything from butter and waffles to cakes and pastries,” says Executive Chef Thomas Tolxdorf. “I love our bees!”

Chef Tolxdorf, who prefers to pluck herbs straight out of the hotel’s garden and to source organic produce from farmers personally selected for exceptional quality (he has even searched the root cellar of an Ohio farmer known for stellar potatoes), now combs homegrown hives for sweet bee nectar on a regular basis.

Beekeeping is a natural fit for hotels seeking new ways to promote localized food sourcing and adopt environmentally friendly programs. When The Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island launched its program last year, it joined a growing list of luxury hotels that have launched their own beekeeping operations.

“We have savvy guests who have long asked us where we catch our fish and where we source produce, and now I can literally show them where we get their honey,” says Tolxdorf.

The hotel cleverly tucked four honey bee hives into a small patch of grass just south of its parking garage, and, within weeks, its chefs were collecting their first harvest, about five gallons. Not much of a haul for some 240,000 bees, but the yield has been growing steadily, says Michael Leach, a private beekeeper who oversees the health and maintenance of the

hives for the hotel. This spring, the plan calls for four more hives, doubling the number of bees to nearly half a million. “If all goes according to plan, more than 100 gallons of honey will be collected in the year ahead,” says Leach.

Guests are often invited to tour the hives and participate in educational programs, which include honey tastings. The hives are simple white boxes topped with rocks to hold the lid in place and their locale is a sunny spot nestled between overgrown trees and shrubs, a parking structure, and a small retention pond where sleepy turtles ignore vehicles driving down a nearby ramp. Overall, it’s not much to look at but beekeeper Leach who scouted the location says it’s perfect.

“Bees require pollen, sunshine and fresh water,” says Leach, owner of North American Bee Hive Company in Jacksonville.

“They have all three here and with the hives out of sight, they are also out of mind—and that means no one is coming out here to disturb the nests.”

There is growing interest in beekeeping. The Florida Department of Agriculture issued 2,800 licenses across the state as of January, a 30 percent jump over last year. “People get their own hives because supermarket honey is heavily filtered and stripped of nutrients, and taste,” says Rob Horsburgh, who oversees licensing for the department in north Florida and has been a bee hobbyist for 25 years.

The Ritz often receives frequent requests to purchase the honey, and stocking the gift store would be sweet. But, for now, Chef Tolxdorf hoards the harvest, and the best honey lovers can do is make a dinner reservation—or start their own beehive.

37 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

snapShots AT THE GRAND OPENING OF THE OMNI AMELIA ISLAND PLANTATION’S “RE-IMAGINATION”

BUNNY & TED SELBY

GIL LANGLEY AND REGINA DUNCAN

TIM DIGBY, STATE SEN. AARON BEAN AND PAUL ECKERT

HOLLY GERMANO AND ARLENE FILKOFF

AT THE ANNUAL ISLE OF EIGHT FLAGS SHRIMP FESTIVAL PARADE

CYD, ERICA, AND DANIELLE TEARE

TANNER GARRARD, VERONICA GARCOBIE AND SEAN MCCARTHY WITH RETT AS RED OTTER, & JIMI SEVERANCE GARY AND RON GIBSON

STACY SIMMONS, PATTY BURCH, TIFFANY SHAW, AND JULIE SIMMONS

AT A MOTHER’S DAY TEA AT SAVANNAH GRAND

TAMMI HOLLAND, TONISHA WILLIAMS, RENEE STOFFEL, AND KATIE DREITH

SARA RUTH BEMBRY AND SARA DAY

KENZIE BRANCH, MARY JANE DON HOLLAND, RUTH HOLLAND, MATTHEWS, AND MARY ALICE JOHNSON AND TAMMI HOLLAND

AT THE CHECK PRESENTATION BY SHEFFIELD’S AND THE PALACE SALOON TO MICAH’S PLACE

SUE BRADDOCK AND IRIS JACOBSEN

TIP FISHER AND BARBI COYNE

ERIC CORBETT AND ASHLEY FLICK

38 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

ELAINE COATS, KELLIE CULBRETH AND SHANDRA RIFFEY

www.AmeliaIslander.com

SHOE VISIONS FINE FOOTWEAR & ACCESSORIES

Fashion for your style, comfort for your life.

118 Centre Street Fernandina Beach

904-491-1245 The Spa & Shops at Omni Amelia Island Plantation

904-277-0909

find your style.

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

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

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.

Like Bijoux Amelia on Facebook

39 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

snapShots AT THE AMELIA ISLAND CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL’S “TWO MAESTROS” CONCERT

SINDA NICHOLS AND WILL HOWERY

ANNE COONROD AND CHRISTOPHER REX

DAVID AND LEEANN DEMAY

MARK & SUSAN FOUTZ

AT “A SAVORY TASTE” TO BENEFIT MICAH’S PLACE AT THE FERNANDINA WOMEN’S CLUB

STEVE & SUE BRADDOCK WITH ANNE & SAM ENTRIKEN

ADRIENNE BURKE, BARBI COYNE AND ASHLEY FLICK

IRIS JACOBSEN WITH KEN AND VICKIE LANIER

JOANN HERRINGTON, ANNA VOSS, AND KELLY MONTI

AT THE SHRIMP FESTIVAL PARADE WITH THE NEWCOMER CLUB’S GOLDEN GIRLS SHRIMPETTES

AMY LAIDLAW AND LINDA BESSETTE

BARBY RAMSEY AND JESSICA STYERS

TERRI BORAKOVE AND LLONA MEAUX

ULU ELLIOTT AND BRENDA PRICE

AT THE NASSAU HUMANE SOCIETY’S “TASTE AND TOAST” EVENT AT THE FLORIDA HOUSE INN

JON & BRETTA WALKER

DEBBIE WHITE WITH JIM & BO MCCOLLUM

ANDY & CARA CURTIN

40 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

KAREN & MIKE MICKLER

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Private, Special Event, Corporate & Beach Yoga www.GOYOGAAMELIA.com 708 S. 8th St. (A1A) Amelia Island, FL 32034 904.335.0539

NEW LOCATION!! ~ 402 Centre Street

Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach ~ 904-261-2501 Ladie’s Apparel, Accessories, and Gifts with a Twist!!!

Monogramming service available.

Elizabeth Wilkes P H O T O G R A P H Y

Weddings & Family Gatherings

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

Video for Business Custom Website Designs Walk Through Video Home Tours

Gourmet Dog Bakery & Boutique ElizabethWilkesPhotography.com (904) 206-2203 Fernandina Beach

Mon. - Fri.10am - 5:30pm • Sat.10am - 4pm Sun.12:30 - 4pm 809 South 8th Street • Amelia Island, FL 32034 • 904-321-0020 • 800-693-1315 www.redbonesbakery.com

41 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

O k a B. • E s c a p a d a • I s l e A p p a r e l • To w n e & R e e s e • C o t o n C o l o r s

Beginners, Hatha, Flow & Hot Power Yoga 22 Classes per week

Mud Pie • Spartina • T hymes • John Wind Maximal • Mariposa

Pandora • Magnolia Lane • Brighton • Tyler Candles

Pin Point Amelia Things Thi ngs ttoo ssee, ee, 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.

DICKIE ANDERSON

En Vogue CO U TU R E

Patricia Morrow-Hufenbecher Fashion Designer/Consultant

A popular speaker and columnist she is available for speaking engagements on local history, architechture, etc, or as costumed Victorian Lady “Emma Goddard”, sharing stories about island life in the 1800’s.

Big Sale on Wedding Gowns, Prom Dresses, & Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses

For more information, call Dickie at 904-556-6455 or email her at dickie.anderson@gmail.com.

All Occassions!

Weddings, Bridal Party, Cocktail, Plus-sizes.

Fine Accessories & Cosmetics.

Field Trips Riding lessons Boarding Horse camps Birthday parties Party Barn available for rent

Military & Student Discounts 8 North 2nd Street Downtown Fernandina Beach 904.624.4178 www.envoguecouture.com

904-322-9739 stayncountryranch@yahoo.com For more information about things to see and do, contact Coastal Connections at aicoastalconnections@gmail.com.

envogue.pmh@gmail.com

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.

Beehive, the 60’s Musical June 22-29

Senior Citizen Monday Discount Locally Owned & Operated

Next to HARRIS TEETER

Next to PUBLIX

261-7701

261-7708

Air Amelia

Monthly Film Screening June 16 at 4:30pm fltplay@peoplepc.com or 206-2607 1014 Beech St. • www.ameliaflt.org

“Come Fl “C Fly With U Us””

Custom Window Treatments to ¿t your budget!

Excursion Flights Learn To Fly

Shutters • Blinds • Cellular Shades Roller Shades • Valances Woven Wood • Draperies & More!

Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport

877-WEDOFLY AirAmelia.com

Free In-Home Consultation & Estimate Professional Measuring & Installation

Call 904-277-3652 Locally Owned & Operated

42 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Address: 103 South 9th Street Date built: 1856 Built by: Original owner unknown; sold to Marcellus Williams in 1858

G R E AT H O M E S O F F E R N A N D I N A

The Williams House

BY DICKIE ANDERSON • PHOTO BY JAN JOHANNES

T

his antebellum house, one of several in the Historic District, is a two-and-a-half story frame vernacular, with a two-story veranda and elaborate turned detail.

The interior stairway is decorated with five stained glass windows. The original pre-Civil War house was simple in design. At a later time, additional exterior design work was done by Robert Sands Schuyler, a very prominent architect in the 1800’s, who designed the Fairbanks, Hirth, and Lewis-Tabby houses, as well as St. Peter’s Episcopal Church and the Old School House. The porch detail is so unusual and unique, Schuyler agreed in writing not to duplicate the striking design.

The windows of the house go all the way to the floor.

This was done for several reasons. For one, it allowed for maximum cooling. The windows also allowed for easy in and out access without paying the customary tax on the number of doors. Particularly appealing is the large dining room, with its pocket doors that are constructed of heart pine on one side and mahogany on the other. The flooring is made of heart pine and mahogany. The Williams House is one of only a few houses in the Historic District that retains its original nineteenth-century fence guarding its entrance

way. The fleur-de-lis detail may refer to French who were the first to lay claim to the area. Some of the large live oaks that populate Ash and Nineth streets were planted by Williams.

The original owner, a wealthy Boston banker, used the finest of material in the homes construction. Its original design was Greek Revival. Concerned about possible secession, he sold the house in 1858 to Marcellus Williams.

Williams was a Northerner who came to East Florida in 1846 to survey and validate the Spanish land grants. He was notable for having married the great-great-great-great granddaughter of the King of Spain. As a U. S. Deputy Surveyor, he was involved in many Floridian projects, including David Levy Yulee’s railroad from Amelia Island to Cedar Key, the Intracoastal Waterway from Lake Worth to Fort Myers, and many other important land surveys.

In the dining room of the house, there is a secret door.

It is thought that this was part of the Underground Railroad and allowed those fleeing slavery to hide. If they saw a candle in a certain window, quilts hung in a certain way, or yard ornaments, they knew they had come to a safe house. It is undocumented, but it is also thought that Jefferson Davis may have visited the home at one time.

This article has been reprinted with permission from Dickie Anderson’s recently published book, Great Homes of Fernandina. It is now available at Books Plus, The Book Loft, the Amelia Island Museum of History, and by visiting www.ameliaislander.com.

43 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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Designer Jewelry Franz • Lenora Dame • Jan Michael HANDBAGS • HATS SCARVES • JEWELRY GIFTS FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN Bring in your hotel key to receive 20% OFF any full priced item.

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Two blocks from the ocean on Sadler Road.

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44 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

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www.AmeliaIslander.com

PHOTO BY HEATHER ABOUNADER

in the garden

black & blue beauty Anise-scented “Black and Blue” sage provides lovely color and fragrance to your landscape.

BY BETTY MORRELL

S

pring has sprung, and flowers are raising their heads and beginning to put on their summer blooms. This time of year is truly magical, with its beautiful array of colors, textures, and, yes, even surprises. Sometimes new plants will suddenly appear in your garden, most likely distributed by Mother Nature. It’s always fun to wonder where they came from, whose garden sent the seeds, and from how far away.

Here’s another favorite plant I’d like to share with you: “Black and Blue” anise sage (Salvia guaranitica). Hummingbirds go crazy for this outstanding variety of salvia because of its anise scent, and because the black calyxes contrast handsomely with the rich, royal blue flowers. This plant works well as an aromatic border plant in full sun and welldrained soil. It likes regular moisture and fertile soil, but it can survive moderate stress from shortages of either. The thick dahlia-like tuberous roots, which survive well in our area, are reliable and longlived. A wonderful perennial, Black & Blue will grow to 48 inches tall and 36 inches wide in full sun to part shade.

Anise smells like licorice, and Black

TIP O F T HE M O N T H It is a good time now to start pruning your azaleas before they begin setting bud for the next season.

& Blue is hard to beat for its fragrance and spectacular floral display from summer into fall. This plant is rated the best anise-scented sage by growers, nurseries, and gardeners.

Plectranthus “Mona Lavender,” also known as spur flower, is a hybrid developed in Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens in South Africa and it has become very popular. The Mona Lavender is a quick-growing, herbaceous, perennial shrub, reaching up to three feet in height, and forming a lovely rounded, dense bush. It has dark green, glossy leaves with intensely purple undersides and sprays of lavender flowers with purple markings.

The flowers are unpredictable, but do well in shortened daylight, beginning in the fall. Depending on how old the plant is and how much it has been pruned back, flowering can be extended into early summer.

45 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

Growing Mona Lavender is a pleasure for any gardener, since it is relatively adaptable and trouble free.

It does well in either shaded or partly sunny locations. When it receives sun, it will stay smaller and more compact, and the leaves will exhibit a more intense coloring, especially on the purple undersides of the leaf.

The plant does well in rich soil with plenty of humus, and it will never refuse extra compost. It is a thirsty plant, so water every few days to keep it fresh and turgid. Pinching back the plant induces better branching and compactness. Mona Lavender makes a great bedding plant en masse or in an existing bed. They also make good potted plants, which can be moved around as needed. Fertilize with a general all purpose 2-3-2 granular or liquid fertilizer. Make sure to water it well so it won’t burn the roots, and don’t fertilize while blooming. This plant will take some freeze, but not real heavy frosts. Enjoy it in your garden!

If you have any questions, e-mail me at bamorrell@aol.com. In the meantime, Happy Gardening!

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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island home Left inset: Once a little used space, a small alcove becomes a dramatic focus for family photos and a piano.

Below: Living room centers around fireplace and shelves displaying the Goldbergs’ collection of travel souvenirs.

A

Cinderella STORY

BY DICKIE ANDERSON PHOTOS BY DAVID BURGHARDT, ISLAND PHOTOGRAPHY

A

s soon as the Goldberg family expressed their desire for a total renovation of their traditional floor plan, Benjie McEntyre of Julia Hall Interiors stepped in as interior decorator/project coordinator for a spectacular transformation.

Built in 1989, the home is located at -Amelia Island Plantation on a beautiful corner lot. But the inside was dated and full of small rooms when they bought it, so they decided to undertake a total makeover.

The Goldbergs, who live in New Jersey and spend every opportunity they have on Amelia Island, had the vision to

let their designers totally change the interior. Walls were reconfigured and rooms combined to improve the flow of the home and allow for larger more dramatic spaces. Structural columns were incorporated to unite the large living room and the game area.

Stephanie Goldberg wanted a home where friends and family could gather enjoyably. With a love of entertaining and a passion for cooking, she wanted easy and adaptable rooms that allowed good flow for entertaining and which would be comfortable for her family when they visited. Dark

47 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

island home The elegant simplicity of the bedroom design is highlighted by colorful pillows picking up browns and soft beiges in the décor.

Above: A dramatic space was created in the kitchen with its soaring ceiling, lots of working surfaces, and appliances that are both functional and add interesting design elements to the room.

48 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

engineered hickory floors throughout the house unite the open spaces and add to a tropical West Indies feel. Dramatic lighting was needed, and McEntyre added Circa lighting fixtures to the dining room and kitchen for interest and function.

One striking design element in the house is the transformation of a former office into a focal point of the living space, containing a glossy black piano surrounded by framed family photographs. The dramatic display made use of a space that did not offer any functional opportunity in the remodel.

The living room is centered around the fireplace. Built-in bookshelves, repurposed from the eliminated office, flank each side. Collections of objects gathered by the Goldbergs in their travels are displayed. McEntyre made good use of some beloved Baker leather club chairs and a sofa covered in buttery coach leather from the homeowners’ www.AmeliaIslander.com

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Repairs and Renovations to the Waycross Rail Depot

island home Right inset: Family mementos and photographs used throughout the house create a warm atmosphere.

Below: The cleverly designed outdoor living space includes a series of porches and garden areas that allow for a variety of entertaining options.

New Jersey home. Centered around a Hickory Chair ottoman, this area works beautifully for conversation or watching movies.

Neutral wall colors tie the adjoining spaces together.

A house designed for entertaining requires a well-planned kitchen. To create enough space for the owners, a breakfast area was reclaimed, walls came down, and an entire exterior wall was “bumped out” one foot. The end result is dramatic. A large working island of grey honed carrara marble centers the room.

The perimeter features contrasting countertops of polished black granite. The glass front refrigerator and commercial stove add both function and design elements to the room. Vertical ceramic breadboard tiles serve to finish the wall space above the counters.

The Goldbergs turned to Julia Hall Interiors once again

for help when adding on their outdoor entertainment area. The house seems nearly double in size when you include the cleverly designed outdoor porches and garden areas. This indoor/ outdoor room offers a dining option and screen walls that are powered by a remote control. A fire pit and hot tub offering relaxing options. The inviting dining table is surrounded by comfortable chairs found at a local department store and slipcovered with an elegant Kravet zebra print. The stunning outdoor kitchen features cabinets of handcrafted teak and Viking appliances.

Truly a Cinderella transformation, the Goldberg house will continue to be a home that is comfortable family space and the perfect stage for elegant entertaining.

50 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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Pick up the Amelia Island Map & Guide for information on great food, fun things to do, and fabulous places to rest. www.ameliaislandfloridamap.com 53 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

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eating scene

Don Quixote’s FRESH SEAFOOD & TAPAS Offering an eclectic array of hot and cold tapas and delicious entrees, Don Quixote’s serves the flavors of Spain and Portugal

BY KAREN MILLER • PHOTO BY WILLIAM RASER

Y

ou might wonder why Spanish restaurant Don Quixote’s would open right next to Pepper’s Mexican Grill—a little competition is good for business, right? Absolutely, especially when the same family owns both restaurants. The entrepreneurial team of Ruben Garcia, Jose Benavidez, and Juan Carlos Angel have done it again, creating yet another successful restaurant, and this one celebrates the flavors of Spain and Portugal. Ruben’s daughter, Vanessa, manages the restaurant, and her enthusiasm for the eatery’s fine food is shared by their chefs, staff, and customers.

I visited Don Quixote’s with my friend, Roger, and we were looking forward to sampling some of their menu items. We began our meal with a glass of white wine, Pomelo Sauvignon Blanc for me and Rosenblum Chardonnay for Roger, both suggested by our server, Shawn. The Pomelo was a perfect wine for summer-sipping, juicy and light-bodied, while the Rosenblum had a bright and refreshing character.

Both were well-paired with our starters. Shawn brought us a bread basket with a mini sourdough loaf for nibbling, then two plates of tapas to sample—one hot and one cold. The hot tapas consisted of Gambas Ajillo, local shrimp sautéed in olive oil, garlic, and parsley, and Scallops Mondragon, panko-crusted and served with creamy, roasted poblano pepper sauce. A few tender morsels of spicy grilled chorizo accompanied the tapas, and everything was delicious. I loved the combination of spicy and creamy, and it was just the right amount of food, which is what tapas are about: small plates of several offerings. The cold platter, Quijotera a la Mancha, consisted of Serrano ham, chorizo, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, roasted zucchini, eggplant and squash, and good olives, all drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a balsamic glaze. This was wonderful after the hot tapas, similar to an antipasto platter. Don Quixote’s employs a tapas chef named Lucas, who creates the small plates at the restaurant.

Vanessa wanted us to try some various entrée selections, and our chef, Hector, and the sous chef, Eduardo, came out to greet us and describe the dishes. The Medallion Beef Tenderloins are served with a homemade Diane sauce, made with mustard, brandy, and mushrooms. The Grouper Don Quixote’s was a lightly breaded fillet, seared, topped with shrimp, asparagus, and hollandaise sauce. Pentoncles Dulcinea are lightly seasoned and pan-seared scallops, topped with a Grand Marnier citrus glaze with tangerine segments. We also tried the Seafood Risotto, which was rich and creamy, and topped with more asparagus. All of the dishes were beautiful and mouth-watering. It was hard to pick a favorite from this eclectic and delicious menu.

To pair with our entrees, we each had a glass of red wine —for Roger, MacMurray Pinot Noir, a smooth and spicy wine with herbal undertones, and for me, Xiloca Garnacha, a Spanish wine with a powerful, berry fruitiness. They were perfect with our rich main dishes. And when we were done with dinner, Shawn surprised us with a chocolate infused port wine, a cup of espresso, and a lovely, velvety caramel flan. The flan was amazing, and included white chocolate and dark chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and strawberries. Definitely a dessert that two can share!

Don Quixote’s is open for dinner every night except Tuesdays. They have a private dining room for special parties, and are also available for off-site catering. The restaurant opens occasionally for lunch, depending on the season. For more information and to make reservations, call (904) 432-7194.

54 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

dining out

Amelia Islander

dining guide 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.

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. 2612660. 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

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

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

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

ine Jacksonville Magaz

Top 25

14 South Second Street • 321-2558 Find us on Facebook and Trip Advisor!

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

55 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

FRESH LOCAL SEAFOOD & STEAKS Beer • Wine • Cocktails • Sunset Bar OPEN 11AM FOR LUNCH & DINNER

31 N. 2nd Street, Fernandina Beach 904.261.4749 • AmeliaCrabTrap.com

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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

New Expansion Now Open! lunch ~ tues - sat 11:30 - 2 lunch/brunch ~ sun 11:30 - 2 happy hour ~ tues - sat 4 - 6 dinner ~ tues - sat 5:30 - 10 4924 ½rst coast hwy • 904.310.6620 www.barzin-bistro-winebar.com palmetto walk shopping village

Open every evening from 5pm to 10pm 510 South 8th St • Fernandina Beach 904.277.8797 “Where Friends and Flavors Come Together” 56 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

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 low-lunch 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. MondaySaturday 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. David’s Restaurant ~ David’s has an amazing Seafood & Steakhouse menu, upscale atmosphere, and professional service for your dining pleasure. Relax in our comfortable leather lounge and peruse the Martini and full bar menu.

Our chefs offer prime steaks, Filet Oscar, and our signature 20oz boneless Ribeyes, Wagyu special s with dazzling presentations, plus English Channel Dover Sole, Truffle Scallops, Soft Shell Crabs, and a true Surf & Turf. Add Foie Gras, Shrimp, Perfect Poached Egg, or Salmon to any entrée. Desserts & breads made on premises. Open 7 days from 5-10pm. Lounge opens at 4pm. Prix Fixe menu from 5-6:30pm for $35 pp plus tax & grat. Live music Tuesday with John Springer and Wednesday through Saturday with Aaron Bing from 6-10pm. No high chairs available. 802 Ash Street. (904) 310-6049. Reservations recommended. www.

AmeliaIslandDavids.com.

España ~ Featuring Old World cuisine from Portugal and Spain, España offers an intriguing menu in a comfortably elegant atmosphere in downtown Fernandina Beach.

Owner/chef Roberto Pestana serves mouthwatering tapas like Grouper Ceviche, Portobello al La España, and Shrimp with Garlic, all served with España’s homemade bread.

Entrees include a classic Seafood Paella, and a variety of fresh local seafood and meats. España also features an extensive wine list and an excellent homemade sangria. Available for private parties. Reservations recommended. All major credit cards. Open 7 days. 261-7700. 22 South 4th Street. $$$, L, D, B/W. Florida House Inn ~ Enjoy Southern cooking at its best.

Menu includes 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: Tue. – Fri. 11:30am - 2:30pm; Sat. – Sun. 11:30am - 3pm.

Mermaid Bar: Open Wed. – Sun. Drink specials nightly. 22 South Third Street, 904-491-3322. L, $$, F 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 Monday 8am

www.AmeliaIslander.com

- 6pm; Tuesday – Friday 8am - 10pm; Saturday 9am - 10pm; Sunday 9am - 4pm. $$, 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 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 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 Paul Maley’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.

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.

AMELIA ISLAND - FLORIDA

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

Lunch - Tue. – Fri. 11:30am - 2:30pm Sat. & Sun. 11:30am - 3pm Southern Bistro Fare Mermaid Bar Open Wed. – Sun. 5 - 10pm Drink Specials Nightly 22 SOUTH THIRD STREET 904-491-3322 WWW.FLORIDAHOUSEINN.COM

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.

Authentic

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

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

57 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

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

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Lunch Mon - Sat 11:30am - 3pm Dinner Fri & Sat 5:30 - 9pm Closed Sundays (904) 432-8213 19 South 3rd Street Historic Downtown Fernandina

Intimate Evening Dining Everyday Brunch Gourmet Shop Monday 8am - 6pm • Tuesday – Friday 8am - 10pm Saturday 9am - 10pm • Sunday 9am - 4pm

American Beach • 1408 Lewis Street at A1A

(904) 261-8973 www.GourmetGourmetFood.com

Bingo Mondays / Trivia Tuesdays / Poker Wednesdays Indoor and Outdoor Dining • Daily Specials & Entertainment Tons of TV’s for your Sporting needs!

Open at 11:00 am Daily 3199 S. Fletcher Ave. • 261-5711

a taste of wine

aBy Steve

A personalized approach to wines, champagnes, cheeses and specialty items.

Complimentary wine tastings - Every Friday 5-7PM Hours: M-S - 10-7PM • Closed Sunday

q

5174 First Coast Highway atasteofwinebysteve.com 904-557-1506

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

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

904-277-3141 www.nassauhealthfoods.net

OPEN DAILY DINE IN OR TAKE OUT

710 Centre Street 904.321.0409

58 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

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). 2776652. L, D, $$, F. Tasty’s Fresh Burgers & Fries ~ Amelia Island’s FRESH spot for great grub and even better atmosphere! Our burgers are 100% grass-fed Angus beef and the fries are hand cut. For our health conscious and PALEO customers, try a bunless option or a delicious turkey burger. And for all the herbivores, we offer a beautiful veggie burger chocked full of flavor! Relax and enjoy an icy cold beer or glass of wine in the casual indoor or outdoor seating. We offer free WI-FI and flat screen TV so you won’t miss your game!

Corner of 8th and Centre Street in Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach. L, D, $, B/W. 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. Take-out 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.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner. $=Entrees under $10, $$=Entrees up to $15. $$$=Entrees over $15. F=Full bar, B/ W=Beer & Wine

www.AmeliaIslander.com

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

plantationcharmer Wonderfully spacious three-bedroom, David Beer-designed custom home fronting the 13th hole of Oakmarsh Links in Amelia Island Plantation. Exquisite privacy in a lush, cul-de-sac setting adjacent to greenbelt with the sweetly mingled fragrances of orange, lemon and tangerine fruit trees. A solid oak doubledoor entry welcomes you to the formal living room with 11foot ceilings and cornered windows. The expansive living space is further accented by a wood-burning fireplace, wet bar and entertainment center. Top-floor master suite boasts a private balcony, separate baths, dual closets and a separated office space.

The roomy kitchen—featuring custom cabinets, butcher block

counters and a large pantry—opens to the family room. This spectacular property has been thoughtfully maintained by its original owner with a new roof, central vac, dual zone HVAC, side entry two-car garage, security and sprinkler systems. Enjoy fine and casual dining options, quaint boutique shopping, and a short stroll to treasured Walker’s Landing. 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 Florida living at its best, in a very special place.

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

59 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

H O M E S | H O M E S I TE S | VILLA S

139 LLong Point P i t Drive Di

Beachside B h id Villas Vill

Luxury waterfront 4 bedroom townhome in Long Point with dramatic views of the Intracoastal, seating for 12 in the home theater, custom finished & complete with popcorn machine! $1,549,000

Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and sandy beaches. Large 3 bedroom, 3 bath villas with spacious balconies are designed to complement your relaxed lifestyle. $979,000 – $1,095,000

4 Harrison Creek

Captain’s Court Villas

Nestled in the peaceful Cedar Point community, this home offers 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, a beautiful fireplace as well as breathtaking Intracoastal and marsh views. $1,175,000

These 2 bedroom/2 bath villas overlooking natural dunes and the beautiful Atlantic Ocean are the perfect Florida island get-away. $450,000 – $495,000

16 Beach Wood Road

TTennis i Vill Villas

This charming 3 bedroom, 2 bath home offers a split floor plan, a fireplace, vaulted ceilings, a blend of hardwood and Mexican tile floors, and serene wooded views. $549,000

Located near Amelia Island Plantation’s Racquet Park these 1st, 2nd and 3rd floor villas with 2 bedrooms /2 baths offer wooded and tennis views. $289,000 – $395,000

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

10 Amelia Village Circle • Amelia Island, FL 32034 • (904) 277-5980 • (800) 874-0322 Mon – Fri 9am – 5:30pm ~ Sat & Sun 10am – 5pm www.RealEstateAmeliaIslandPlantation.com • aiprealestate@omnihotels.com

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

Anne Barbanel = Commitment Top Selling Century 21 Agent Northeast Florida Brokers Council

“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. 500 Centre Street • Amelia Island

203 Centre St. • Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 KarenWerling@TeamWerling.com • 904.556.9549 www.FindNortheastFloridaHomes.com

96321 BAY VIEW DRIVE Magnificent 4BR, 5.5BA with over 1,200 ft of porches & screened lanai overlooking Lanceford Creek in Oyster Bay Harbour. Spacious LR w/ FP. Study with full bath ensuite could be 5th BR. Gourmet kitchen with granite, 42” cabinets, stainless appliances, and gas cooktop. Third floor owners suite has balcony. All bedrooms have baths ensuite. Home has unique guest suite on the 1st floor (no steps).

Membership to Yacht Club available. MLS#58274 $750,000

1775 BURNHAM LANE Amelia Park home with eat-inkitchen. Formal living room, dining or den. Master suite on 1st floor. New wood flooring and tile in kitchen and laundry.

Carpet in other living areas.

Upstairs includes 2 bedrooms, sitting area and bathroom.

Front porch and a fenced back patio with a garden area. Detached garage with covered walkway to home.

Natural landscapng with sprinkler system. MLS#60017 $410,000

96126 OYSTER BAY DRIVE Beautiful lakefront home with an open, spacious floorplan.

Well-designed kitchen with glassfront cabinets and granite countertops. Custom built-ins in great room with french doors opening to a screened lanai and oversized spa. Wood and tile in living areas. All bedrooms have their own bath. Located in prestigious Oyster Bay Harbour with community tennis, pool and club house. Membership available at the Yacht Club with dining, pool and work-out room amenities. MLS#59329 $397,000

1360 SHADOW WOOD DRIVE Spacious home with 2 full living areas located in wooded, natural setting with wrap around covered gallery & 1/2 acre lot. Large great room with built-ins & FP, DR, kitchen with eat-in nook, bedroom & bath complete the main floor.

Second floor consists of master suite with walk-in shower, a loft & 3rd bedroom. The lower level consists of a living area, full kitchen, bedroom & bath ensuite, office/den, and a bonus room. Two car detached garage. MLS#59581 $499,000

Amelia National gated golfing community with clubhouse, pool, fitness, restaurant and lounge. 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2,636 sq ft, fireplace in living room and 3 car garage.

Exceptional value!

$275,000 95031 SUNFLOWER COURT 95031SUNFLOWERCOURT.COM Flora Parke “Copperstone ll” Seda home built in 2008 with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths.

Upgrades include 42” cabinets and stainless steel appliances.

Convenient to island & short commute to Jax & Georgia.

$220,000 32695 SUNNY PARKE DRIVE 32695SUNNYPARKEDR.COM Nassau River frontage. Four bedrooms, 2.5 baths with 2,163 sq. ft. of living on fenced .69 acre homesite. Screened lanai with in-ground pool.

Private dock with deep water.

This home has it all!

$310,000 75061 EDWARDS ROAD 75061EDWARDSROAD.COM

Diana Dilallo

Production Manager

Mortgages without obstacles.

Office: 904-557-9902 Cell: 904-557-5733 Fax: 877-455-7110 NMLSID#: 316314 ddilallo@primelending.com www.ddilallo.primelending.com 9900 Amelia Island Parkway - Suite 400 • Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

ISLAND

TEAM

Rated #1 Agents by an Independent Lab

RE DU CE D

Email: amelia4sale@aol.com (904) 415-1002 - Cell (904) 261-0347 Office Custom-built home in Summer Beach with golf course views MLS#59770 $599,000

Spacious 4-bedroom home in move-in condition MLS#59529 $229,000

Easy living 2BR/2BA home in Villages of Marsh Lakes MLS#59903 $210,000

Lovely 3BR/2BA home in great neighborhood with pool & patio MLS#59726 $255,000 Great 2BR/1BA condo near beach for vacations or investment MLS#59725 $145,000

Claudia

watts

Selling the Amelia Island lifestyle since 1995...

International President’s Premier designee, 2013

Email: claudia.watts@coldwellbanker.com (904) 556-4000 • www.claudiawatts.com 2004 Beach Wood Villas Beautiful low-density townhouse villa on South Amelia. 3 bedrroms, 3.5 baths, 1,690 sq. ft. MLS#60048 $369,000 86133 Montauk Drivek Elegant golf community home with tasteful renovations. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1,900 sq. ft. MLS#59940 $259,900 3002 Club Villas Remodeled townhouse villa in Amelia Island Plantation. 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1,472 sq. ft. MLS#59468 $224,900 2614 McGregor Hear the ocean and walk to the beach. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1,718 sq. ft. MLS#60002 $220,000 95165 Periwinkle Place Practically new home in Amelia Concourse. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1,658 sq. ft. MLS#59759 $199,900 3059 Club Villas Fronting the Oak Marsh links with marsh distantly in view. 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1,472 sq. ft. MLS#60063 $188,500 9621 Causeway Place Attractive 2-story home with wonderful bonus room. 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2,288 sq. ft., MLS#56412 $183,000

Excellence... yesterday, today & tomorrow.

311 CENTRE STREET • AMELIA ISLAND • (904) 261-0347 • CBAMELIA.COM

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

PAT AND PAM TROXEL pdtroxel@msn.com 904.556.3228 • www.troxelteam.com

2473 SOUTH FLETCHER AVE. $699,000

13 OCEAN PLACE $579,000

Picture perfect beach house combines easy living and as well as fantastic ocean views. Completely renovated and rebuilt in 2006, this 4 bedroom 3.5 bath home offers an open living, dining kitchen space, tile throughout, wrap-around deck, solar heated saline pool and spa, fenced yard, large owner’s suite with Italian marble floor in spa-like bath, Rinnai tankless water system, solid surface countertops, stainless steel appliances and amazing interior light.

Two bedroom, 3rd floor Ocean Place in desirable building adjacent to The Ritz. Sweeping unobstructed ocean views to the north and south and sold completely furnished. Easy lock and go convenience for the second home or investment/rental minded buyer. What a perfect place to watch the 4th fireworks from The Ritz!

3 BELTED KINGFISHER $849,000

1775 SOUTH FLETCHER AVENUE $875,000

Spacious custom home on AIP offers 4,500sq. ft. and lots of Southern charm. Cedar shake exterior, rich Brazilian mahogany wood floor in all living areas, 5BR/4.5BA, 10’+ ceilings. Andersen windows and doors, impressive trim work, huge media room, huge kitchen w/ gas range, GE Monogram stainless appliances, abundant outdoor spaces, enormous master suite w/ private screened patio, oversized 2 car garage and bike/walk to beach and access to AIP amenities.

Gorgeous, like-new ocean view home on oversized lush lot offers many possibilities with open, spacious and flexible floor plan with dual living & kitchen areas and laundry on both floors. Standout features such as paver drive, state of the are kitchen with hickory cabinets, mahogany island, stainless appliances and custom tile backsplash. You will find tile throughout the house along with many custom touches. Master offers jetted tub and amazing ocean views.

Excellence... yesterday, today & tomorrow.

311 CENTRE STREET • AMELIA ISLAND • (904) 261-0347 • CBAMELIA.COM

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

ESCAPE TO AMELIA

OCEANSIDE AT SUMMER BEACH Private, gated community just steps to the beach and community pool!

Located on the south end of Amelia Island near resort ammenities, shops and restaurants. Open, light floor plan, spacious owner suite and bath and a covered, screened porch providing an extended outdoor living space overlooking lush canopy views. Perfect full time residence or second home.

Memberships to The Golf Club and The Amelia Island Club are available.

Offered at $425,000.

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

~ Featured Listings ~ CARLTON DUNES AT SUMMER BEACH

HECKSCHER DRIVE Panoramic ocean and river views! Move in ready, 3,000 plus square foot home on the St. John’s River. Custom appoinments throughout include travertine floors, chef’s kitchen with granite, stainless commercial grade appliances and center island, a generous owner suite and bath with fireplace, outdoor deck, screened porch, and dock with boat lift. A four garage garage and Generac generator make this home a must see. Offered at $859,000.

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 $1,325,000.

OCEAN PLACE AT SUMMER BEACH

PIPER DUNES AT AMELIA ISLAND PLANTATION Fantastic oceanfront three bedroom, three bath villa overlooking the community pool and beach. Tasteful upgrades throughout. Kitchen boasts quartz counters, custom cabinetry and glass tile backsplash. Open floorplan with views from kitchen, dining and living rooms and owner suite. Expansive wrap-around terraces allow additional entertainment and living space. This first foor unit also has a private garage and electric hurricane shutters. Offered at $1,150,000.

Located on the south side of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. These wonderful condominiums offer the per- fect 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 $559,000 and are direct oceanfront.

Rent a beautiful Ocean Place unit.

View virtual at www.vrbo.com. #224773

Come & Enjoy Our Five Diamond Neighbors

Susan Gibson®

MARCY MOCK

REALTOR

Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty Mobile: (904) 556-8471 5472 First Coast Hwy, Ste. 1, Amelia Island Susan@ChaplinWilliams.com

Chaplin Williams Realty

©2013 An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate AfÀliate, Inc., a Prudential Financial Company.

Prudential is a service mark of The Prudential Insurance Company of America. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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

www.marcymock.com

Scan this code with your smartphone.

To Protect Your Castle, Look to the Tower.ÂŽ

When calling about the properties

Protecting your home requires an insurance company you can trust. We’ve been in business since 1972, far longer than most companies, and we bring stability and

ďŹ nancial security with dependability in Florida’s property insurance market. Please visit our agent’s website for your personal quote and see what the tower can do for you.

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featured in this Open House section, please

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More than just a ride, Montego Limousine is committed to value and first class service. Now offering WIFI Internet in our Town Cars.

We are the preferred choice for: JAX Airport • Mayo Clinic • Local Island Service • Night out 65 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

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G reatH omes OF FERNANDINA

ARCHITECTURAL TREASURES FROM AMELIA ISLAND’S GOLDEN AGE

By Dickie Anderson | Photography by Jan Johannes Featuring 22 homes in Fernandina Beach’s Historic District, highlighting when each home was built, by whom, the original owners and their part in Fernandina’s earlier history, as well as architectural highlights

OF

.

Greaomt es H

FERNANDINA

Amelia Architectural Treasures from

Island’s Golden Age

#"

DERSON D I C K I E A NJAN JOHANN ES PHOTO GRAPHY BY

Includes map with a key to the houses With an introduction by Amelia Island historian Ron Kurtz $14.95 Published by Sweetpea Media and Amelia Islander Magazine

Now Available at Amelia Island gift and book stores, including Books Plus and the Book Loft, or contact Dickie Anderson at dickie.anderson@gmail.com.

66 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND AMELIA ISLAND EVERY MONTH!

Week !

Check out our blog featuring current news and stories about all that is happening on Amelia Island and the surrounding areas. Local events, food, history, and more. Three new stories every week by local authors.

www.AmeliaIslander.com

www.AmeliaIslander.com

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAM BELL PHOTOGRAPHY

wedding dreams become reality here...

ameliaweddingsmag.com 67 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

backyard adventure

Flying On the Water

BY KAREN MILLER • PHOTO COURTESY OF FLYING FISH FUN

W

hen I heard that former kayak instructor George Morris had decided to open up a jet ski tour business called Flying Fish Adventures, I knew I had to try one of his tours. I had been jet skiing years ago, when the jet ski first came out, but I knew that with George in charge, a jet ski backyard adventure was bound to be fun and exciting.

I decided to invite my friend, Lisa Chaffman, to accompany me on my Flying Fish adventure. Lisa is a thrill-seeker, who likes to drive motorcycles, and she is always up for something new. I wanted her to be my jet ski chauffeur, and she was ready to take on the challenge.

I really enjoy talking to George, who views jet ski tours a little differently than other operators. “The jet ski isn’t just for going fast and getting the rush,” says George. “It’s a little of that, but also it’s a way to see more. With us, we make sure you are able to witness the pristine beauty of the Georgia and Florida coastline as you catch glimpses of dolphin, exotic birds, manatee, wild horses, and other diverse wildlife native to the area.”

We met George at the harbor, where he introduced us to the jet ski and gave us a lesson on how it works and the proper way to operate it. The jet ski is a good size and it’s very stable on the water. Lisa was able to putter around near the dock and get used to the controls, and then, with George in the lead, we headed out for our trip on the water.

There is a no-wake zone for the first few minutes, and that was a good way for Lisa to get used to the throttle, and then

we kicked it into high gear. With a good laugh and a few highpitched screams, Lisa and I were headed out at top speed to an area called Tiger Basin. We enjoyed pretty smooth water that day, and where we did come across bigger waves, Lisa quickly realized that keeping up a good speed and skimming over the waves worked best.

We stopped now and then with George, who told us a little about the waterways, wildlife, manatees, and birds in Tiger Basin, then we headed over to Cumberland Island, where we came upon a rarely seen bird, an American Avocet.

On our way back to the harbor, Lisa and I spied a pod of dolphins, so we stopped the jet ski and stayed quiet, while they swam so near to us, we could have reached out and touched them. I have never seen a dolphin up so close in the wild, and it was a real thrill.

Morris has been professionally instructing and guiding outdoor activities for 20 years and he is a certified Master Naturalist, who also has a “Wilderness First Responder” medical rating. At his past jobs, he has been called the “Director of Fun” and “Professional Recreator,” and, after our exhilarating adventure, I heartily endorse both of those titles!

Flying Fish operates various types of jet ski tours, for groups and individuals, that will take boaters to many places in and around Amelia Island and the Georgia coast. For more information, call Flying Fish at (904) 583-3420 or visit www.flyingfishfun.com.

68 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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

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

Monday - Saturday 10:00 - 5:30

All Major Credit Cards

(904) 491-4878

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.

Featuring: Regatta Outdoors BLOQ UV Tara Grinna Swimwear Craghoppers Reebok Swim Desigual Goddess Yoga Wear Wallaroo Hats Nautica Seawaves Christina Liquid Mountain and much more...

Harris Teeter Shopping Center 4800 First Coast Hwy, Ste 220 • Amelia Island, FL 32034

(904) 321-0444

Deborah, Fernandina Beach resident and stroke survivor

Expert neurological care.

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After surviving a stroke, Deborah learned that the right follow-up

Baptist Nassau now

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having her neurologist just minutes away. And she found it with Baptist Nassau and Dr. Timothy Lucey, now full-time in Fernandina Beach. Speed to care in an emergency, and expert care that can help prevent one — that’s changing health care for good.

baptistnassau.com

call 904.321.3500.