Amelia Islander - August 2021

Amelia

ISLANDER AUGUST 2021

a tale of two

pandemics pandemics Like they did during the Yellow Fever epidemic of 1877, Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island residents faced the Covid-19 pandemic and came together in a time of crisis.

plus: MARITIME MUSEUM • LA CHAINE DES ROTISSEURS • FERNANDINA FACES

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1411 S. 14th Street, Suite F Amelia Island, FL

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2 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

AUGUST 2021

www.AmeliaIslander.com

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN Fernandina Beach Historic Downtown 402 Centre Street Fernandina Beach, FL 32234

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35 restaurants,63 shops,400 years of history, and one unforgettable waterfront sunset.

“

Amelia

The Fernandina

ISLANDER

community endured a deadly battle with

Philip Kelly Deana Basile Kelly Publishers and Editors

another serious epidemic almost 150

Tom Barrett Art Director

years ago, when an

Mark O’Day Sales Manager

outbreak of yellow fever gripped the island.

”

The year 2020 on Amelia Island, as well as throughout the rest of the world, was an extraordinary year by any measurement. The Covid-19 coronavirus, which hardly anyone had heard of in January 2020, swept across the globe as the year went on, causing hospitalizations, deaths, and uncertainty in almost every country. In addition to the danger of the virus, mandates and lockdowns were instituted by governments at every level, resulting in a weakened economy, widespread job losses, and personal and financial troubles for many.

Although this was a first in our lifetimes, it was not the first time that a virus had taken over our community, or the country. Before Covid took possession of our consciousness, we had soldiered through other lethal virus outbreaks. Some of our older readers will remember yearly battles each summer with the polio virus, and the country suffered during the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic, which spread around the world infecting almost one-third of the world’s population. But the Fernandina community itself endured a deadly battle with another serious epidemic almost 150 years ago when an outbreak of yellow fever gripped the island, creating circumstances not unlike what we experienced in the last year.

The outbreak even made the pages of the New York Times in September 1877, where a short article noted that seventy percent of the island’s population had been infected.

Comparing the two different outbreaks on Amelia Island provides an interesting look at our community, despite the many years between them. In both instances, despite vastly different eras, the community responded in very similar ways both times, which is a testament not only to the enduring character of the people here but also to what’s good in our human nature. Karen Miller and Mandy Haynes ably shared the duties on this story, with Karen chronicling the island’s response to the deadly yellow fever epidemic, and Mandy looking back at how Amelia Island has handled the Covid pandemic last year and this year. In each instance, it is a tale of a community rallying together to care for the sick and give comfort to anyone in need. In each case, people made great sacrifices to heal and help their neighbors, and that should make us proud of our Amelia Island community and its resilient spirit. Many thanks to Karen and Mandy for presenting this story.

Also in this issue, we make a visit to the Maritime Museum of Amelia Island, which has artifacts from shipwrecks, Navy memorabilia, and lots of stories to share, including about the hunt for treasure off Amelia; share a table with the Amelia Island bailliage, or chapter, of La Chaine des Rotissers, the world’s oldest food and wine society; present another “Fernandina Faces” feature on Robin Lentz; offer great recipes to beat the heat with delicious watermelon creations; and much more.

See you around the island!

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

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

Amelia Islander Magazine is published monthly. All editorial contents including maps and photographs are Copyrighted 2021 Sweetpea Media, Inc. Reproduction of any material contained herein in any manner, in whole or in part, is prohibited without the express written consent of the publisher.

Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other artwork cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. No responsibility is assumed for unsolicited materials. The cover and the magazine’s contents are fully protected and may not be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The Amelia Islander is distributed free of charge on and around Amelia Island. Back issues may be purchased from the publisher for $2.00 each plus postage.

4 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

AUGUST 2021

www.AmeliaIslander.com

features

AUGUST2021 11 Cover Story A TALE OF TWO PANDEMICS

As they did during the Yellow Fever epidemic of 1877, Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island residents bravely faced the Covid-19 pandemic last year, coming together in a time of crisis to help each other as one caring community.

31 Maritime Magic With artifacts from shipwrecks, cannons, and U.S. Navy memorabilia, the Maritime Museum of Amelia Island has lots of stories to share, including real-life treasure hunts.

39 Camaraderie of the Table Gathering in homes and local restaurants, the Amelia Island Bailliage of La Chaine du Rotisseurs celebrates the camaraderie of the table and the finest food and wine.

49 Fernandina Faces

76 Island Entertaining

After teaching and working as a middle school counselor for 12 years, Robin Lentz is now helping children find success as executive director with Take Stock in Children of Nassau County.

During the heat of the summer, stay cool with watermelon using innovative recipes to make delicious watermelon salad, watermelon soup, and watermelon sangria.

Amelia

ISLANDER AUGUST 2021 • VOLUME 34 • NUMBER 8

5 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

AUGUST 2021

www.AmeliaIslander.com

AUGUST2021

inside 22

ABOUT THE COVER

29

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

37

Maps of the Island and downtown, with telephone numbers

37

Tide Table Tides at the Amelia River

37

Around Town What’s happenng around Amelia Island

42

Snapshots Islanders out and about

57

In the Garden With the heat and humidity of August here, add some interest to your landscape

a tale of two

pandemics pandemics Like they did during the Yellow Fever epidemic of 1877, Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island residents faced the COVID-19 pandemic and came together in a time of crisis.

Design by Tom Barrett

55

(in the early morning!) with native Florida shrubs like Coontie Palm and Florida Anise..

55

Island Home After initially buying a condo on the island, Walton and Linda Rogers found a lot in Amelia Island Plantation they loved and did an extensive renovation on the home.

62

Eating Scene Serving up delicious sushi and hibachi since 2007, Fancy Sushi continues to delight locals and visitors alike with creative and fresh daily specials and innovative sushi rolls.

67

Open House Premium real estate offerings on and around Amelia Island

Amelia

ISLANDER AUGUST 2021 • VOLUME 34 • NUMBER 8

6 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

AUGUST 2021

www.AmeliaIslander.com

62

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8 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

AUGUST 2021

5422 First Coast Hwy. St.116 Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 www.AmeliaIslander.com

The Shops at Omni Amelia Island feature a wide selection of one-of-a-kind boutiques, restaurants and souvenir stores. This quaint, pedestrian and pet-friendly shopping village offers something for everyone.

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

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

FALCON’S NEST Aviation-themed restaurant with a full bar, great burgers, sandwiches, salads and more.

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

MARCHÉ BURETTE

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

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

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

SPA & SALON The ultimate indulgence for your body, mind and spirit.

Offers an array of aromatherapy candles, oils, lotions and jewelry.

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

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

STEAK OUT | EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY | 5-9 P.M. | MARCHÉ BURETTE We believe that steak is cause for celebration! Help us kick off the weekend with our signature culinary event. Join us every Friday and Saturday night to enjoy live music and a selection of premium cuts of meat. Prices vary.

NOW OPEN! The Spice & Tea Exchange of Fernandina Beach is now open! We have more than 60 loose leaf teas from around the world, more than 85 custom spice blends made in-store daily, and Hot & Iced Tea to go! inv Linda, Bill & Harrison Files invite you to come and smell the spices!

The Spice & Tea Exchange® of Fernandina Beach 316 CENTRE STREET, FERNANDINA BEACH (NEXT TO AMELIA TAVERN) FERNANDINABEACH@SPICEANDTEA.COM | 904.432.7897

a tale of two

pandemics pandemics Like they did during the Yellow Fever epidemic of 1877, Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island residents faced the Covid-19 pandemic and came together in a time of crisis.

BY KAREN MILLER AND MANDY HAYNES

PHOTOS COURTESY AMELIA ISLAND MUSEUM OF HISTORY

O

n September 15, 1877, Fernandina made news in the New York Times with the headline, “Yellow Fever in Fernandina.” The tiny article, which was less than ten lines long, stated: “Five deaths have occurred in Fernandina since the last report, and there are several new cases.” The cases would grow quickly, with 1,146 people eventually contracting the disease out of a total population of 1,632 in this small coastal community.

Yellow fever, or “Yellow Jack” as it was sometimes called, wreaked havoc throughout the country during the 18th and 19th centuries, with epidemics popping up in many states. The first major yellow fever outbreak took place in Philadelphia in 1793, crippling the capital city as 5,000 people died and 17,000 fled the area. More outbreaks occurred in places like New York, Boston, New Orleans, and Norfolk, before Yellow Jack made its way into Fernandina.

YELLOW FEVER COMES TO FERNANDINA No one knew for sure what caused yellow fever then, but theories ranged from “bad air” to “rotting coffee beans” and 11 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

other odd speculations. And seemingly whatever controls were put into place, like burning barrels of tar in the streets or using aggressive medical treatments like administrating mercury or bleeding patients who were sick with the disease, more and more people died.

Yellow fever got its name from the jaundice that appeared in patients as their livers were compromised by the disease.

The illness begins like a case of the flu, with fever, body aches, nausea, and lack of appetite. In many cases, a patient with yellow fever would seem like they were getting better, then in another two days their condition would worsen with bleeding, kidney problems, and liver failure. As Yellow Jack spread throughout the country and the world, it was considered one of the most dangerous infectious diseases.

Shortly before Yellow Jack came to Fernandina, a group of Jacksonville physicians formed a group called the Duval County Medical Society, the first of its kind in Florida. The president of the Society at that time was Dr. Francis Wellford, who would come to Fernandina to assist with the yellow fever

AUGUST 2021

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COURTESY AMELIA ISLAND MUSEUM OF HISTORY

COURTESY AMELIA ISLAND MUSEUM OF HISTORY

PHOTO BY SHERRY CARTER

Left: Dr. Francis Wellford Below left: Phelan-Verot House Below: Sisters of St. Joseph

outbreak, along with his colleague, Dr. James Herndon. Just two weeks after the initial outbreak, the extent of the disease was such that local officials could no longer cope they and reached out to other communities for assistance.

Other doctors arrived to help, seeing dozens of patients each day. The Sisters of St. Joseph, a group of Catholic nuns who were teaching at St. Michael School and living in what is now called the Phelan-Verot house, sprang into action, nursing the sick and dying around the clock, and even helping to bury the dead. Quarantines were put in place, but nothing seemed to keep the disease from spreading.

FIGHTING AN INVISIBLE ENEMY “Nobody knew where yellow fever came from,” says local historian Frank Ofeldt. “Field cannons were set up around the city and shot frequently to disperse the air. Fires burned throughout the town in order to destroy the yellow fever germs.”

Ultimately, 94 people died of the disease, including two of the Sisters of St. Joseph, along with Dr. Wellford and Dr. Herndon.

Yellow Jack made its way around the country and the globe before Major Walter Reed, a U.S. Army pathologist 12 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

and bacteriologist, led experiments that would prove in 1900 that yellow fever was transmitted by the bite of a mosquito.

The culprit turned out to be the Asian tiger mosquito, which showed up in ships from other parts of the world. What makes these mosquitos unique is they breed in small amounts of standing water, in vessels like watering cans and buckets. So while soldiers from Fort Clinch were blasting cannons around Fernandina, mosquitos were quietly killing its residents, one bite at a time.

In 1888, eleven years after the Fernandina outbreak, yellow fever raged throughout the entire state of Florida.

Alachua County placed guards at all rail and road entrances to the county, and an officer at the county line had authority to put off the train anyone without a health card or certificate.

Nevertheless, Yellow Jack spread, reaching Jacksonville in July, then hitting Fernandina again in August.

In Fernandina, officials denied yellow fever was present, then called for state help when commerce stopped and looting began. Gainesville Guards were ordered to the stricken city. The guards, singing “We’ll Hang the Yellow Jack to a Sour Apple Tree,” boarded the Seaboard train for Waldo and Fernandina.

AUGUST 2021

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13 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

AUGUST 2021

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PHOTO BY SHERRY CARTER PHOTO BY SHERRY CARTER

Left: “The Doctors Window” at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church Below: Grave markers in Bosque Bellow Cemetary of the sisters who cared for those suffering from Yellow Fever.

The epidemic continued on and off throughout the country until Walter Reed’s discovery of the cause of the disease.

Today, a stained-glass window called “The Doctors Window” can be found at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church on Atlantic Avenue, paying homage to Drs. Wellford and Herndon.

The inscription reads: To Whose Memory as a Grateful Record of Their Noble Lives and Historic Death, This Window is Dedicated. The brave nuns who cared for the sick and dying yellow fever victims are buried at Bosque Bello cemetery, where Fernandina residents named them “The Angels of Mercy.”

ONCE MORE INTO THE BREACH In 2020, 143 years after the yellow fever epidemic, no one was prepared for a global pandemic to make its way again into the small community of Fernandina Beach, but Covid-19 slipped into Nassau County with a vengeance, causing 127 deaths. On March 11, 2020, Fernandina Beach made news when the first known positive case of Covid-19 was reported.

The 68-year-old man had reportedly contracted the virus while traveling out of state and had no idea he had been infected.

When he realized that he had the virus, he went into self-isolation and the Florida Department of Health/Nassau County started 14 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

monitoring him and researching people whom he may have come into contact with so they could be tested for the virus.

The World Health Organization had just declared the new coronavirus to be a pandemic and Amelia Islanders listened to reports that twenty new cases had been confirmed in New York City overnight, but it seemed unimaginable that the city of Fernandina Beach was in any danger. Even though the governor of Florida had declared a state of emergency on March 1, many residents felt they were safe.

The Nassau County Board of County Commissioners held a meeting late on the afternoon of March 11, 2020 to address community concerns about the spread of Covid-19 and to reassure everyone that proper steps were in place to contain the virus. But many residents were concerned. The Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, an event that attracts approximately 50,000 people onto Amelia Island on the first weekend of March each year, had just taken place the weekend before. The event organizers had added additional hand sanitizer stations at all entrances, food courts, and other areas. They also urged anyone with flu-like symptoms to stay home. But was that enough?

Amelia Island Soapery could attest that residents were following hand-washing procedures as they quickly sold out

AUGUST 2021

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AUGUST 2021

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PHOTOS COURTESY PLANTATION ART GALLERY & GUILD

Above: During the 2020 pandemic, locals got creative as more and more activities were closed to the public.

Above right: Mandatory quarantining necessitated many in-person activities be done online, much like this guitar lesson via video call.

Right: Local golfers demonstrating “social distancing” while being able to play together.

of product. They couldn’t keep up with supply and demand as orders for antibacterial soap were coming in from out of state. And soon, larger stores were quickly running out of products, too.

COMING TOGETHER IN 2020 AS CASES SURGE As cases rose in Florida, the governor shut down bars and restaurants. City officials closed Fernandina’s beaches, along with other outdoor recreational facilities. On March 31, twenty days after the first recorded case, the Nassau County Emergency Management reported the total positive case count to be nine for Nassau County. Five of those cases were from Fernandina Beach.

In the middle of all the uncertainty, however, residents and business owners came together. The manager of Fernandina’s Winn-Dixie offered restaurant workers temporary full-time jobs until restaurants and bars could open again. People in the community bought gift cards, purchased items online, and took advantage of curbside delivery from local businesses.

When masks couldn’t be found on store shelves, residents came together and sewed them by the dozens, then by the hundreds. People looked out for each other while they waited for the virus to be contained and for life go back to normal.

Unfortunately, it was just getting started.

16 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

As numbers continued to rise, Amelia Islanders went into lockdown. Parents adjusted as best they could and worked from home, kids adjusted and found new ways to keep themselves busy. Families came together. Residents did things to keep their neighbors in good spirits by writing letters, posting uplifting messages on social media, calling friends who lived alone, and delivering baked goods to front porches. The Barnabas Center and other local charities continued to supply food and financial assistance to those who needed it the most.

In early May, with more testing made available and people anxious to get back to normal, state parks reopened. Social distancing, handwashing, and masks were still encouraged. In July the Nassau County School Board unanimously approved a return to school plan for August 23 with the option of either in-person or distance learning.

On August 21, youth sports organizations asked Fernandina Beach City Commissioners to open up city ball fields to team sports and competitions despite concerns caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. While sympathetic, the FBCC decided to withhold final decision until at least August 24.

Lots of people thought they were being overly cautious, but the FBCC wanted to make sure that every safety measure was in order and in place.

AUGUST 2021

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Craft Beer & Artisan Pizza Fernandina Beach’s newest craft brewery has opened its doors. First Love Brewing is a community centric microbrewery that features 20 rotating taps all brewed on site. First Love Brewing also offers artisan pizzas made with their signature dough recipe. We are inspired by the community we live in and the people we meet. We look forward to seeing you soon.

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PHOTOS COURTESY PLANTATION ART GALLERY & GUILD

Right: A nurse cares for an elderly patient.

Below: The Plantation Artists’ Guild & Gallery displays the “2020 – A Look Back” photographic exhibit.

FINDING NEW WAYS TO LEND A HAND It seemed like things were looking up, but on August 28, 2020, The Florida Department of Health reported a significant number of Covid-19 cases at a Fernandina Beach nursing home.

47 residents and seven staff members had tested positive for the virus. Nonetheless, Fernandina Beach residents continued to come up with clever, new ways to care for one another and keep their friends and families safe.

Groups like Elm Street Sportsman Association ramped up efforts to help Fernandina Beach’s residents by continuing things like their back-to-school drive, student scholarships, and food drives during the pandemic. Residents continued to support local businesses with curbside delivery, online shopping, and virtual entertainment events to keep people at home.

As the community watched 2021 roll in, they waited patiently for their opportunities to get vaccinated. Residents had become weary of wearing masks, and everyone yearned to go back to a “normal” life. Unfortunately, “normal” had now become the “new normal,” and Amelia Islanders continued to adjust and support one another.

Florida’s governor lifted Covid-19 restrictions in May this year, but Fernandina Beach residents and businesses continued to use caution while gathering in close-knit situations. Many 18 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

folks had decided that not only did mask-wearing keep them safe from Covid-19, but also from other viruses. Many older Amelia Islanders today will tell you that they’ll continue to wear masks and order groceries online in order to stay healthy.

Like the yellow fever epidemic, the Spanish flu epidemic, and many other pandemics throughout the centuries, Covid-19 will continue to rear its ugly head with resurgences and variants of the disease. But Amelia Islanders have come together in crisis before, and they will continue care for one another as they have in years past.

In December last year, the Plantation Artists Guild & Gallery sent out a call for photographs of Nassau County by residents or visitors for a special exhibition called “2020 – A Look Back.” Once selected, the photos were enlarged and made ready for public display. The exhibit has been designed to be portable and is available for display at various venues throughout the community and county. A magazine with photos and the story behind the Look Back project is available for sale. The final collection of photos tells the story of a resilient and vibrant community that survived a year like no other. For more information about the show, visit www.paggart.com.

For updates on the current Covid-19 conditions in Nassau County visit nassau.floridahealth.gov.

AUGUST 2021

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21 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

AUGUST 2021

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everything Amelia P E OP LE ,

P LA CE S,

B Y

AMELIA ISLAND DANCE FESTIVAL RETURNS SEPTEMBER 10 & 11

&

M O R E

S I M M ON S

LIEUTENANT COLONEL ROBERT ADELHELM, USMC, TO SPEAK AT PATRIOT DAY LUNCHEON

COURTESY AICG

Lieutenant Colonel Robert (Bob) Adelhelm, U.S. Marine Corps (Retired), will be the keynote speaker at the seventh annual Navy SEAL Foundation Patriot Day Luncheon on Saturday, September 11 at the Fernandina Beach Golf Club.

Colonel Adelhelm was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1973 after graduating from William Patterson University. It was the beginning of a 22-year career that encompassed command, staff, and instructor duties that took him all over the world, including Beirut, Lebanon. He is a qualified U.S. Navy Diver, Naval Aerial Observer, and Marine Corps Parachutist. After retirement, he founded the Semper Fidelis Society and the NE Florida Vets4Vets Movement. He is a member of the American Legion, as well as past Chairman of the NE Florida Veterans Council, and a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, Vietnam Veterans of America, and the Marine Corps League.

All of the proceeds from the luncheon will go to the Navy SEAL Foundation. This 501(c)3 organization was created in 2000 with the mission of providing sustained support for our Naval Special Warfare community, as well as their families. To learn more or register for the event, visit www.ameliaislandcharitygroup.org.

BOSTON PHOTOGRAPHY

After dancing from a distance in 2020, the Amelia Island Dance Festival is ready to welcome a live audience again this year on September 10 and 11 at Amelia Community Theater.

This year’s lineup features artists East

by Northwest, John Manzari, Carlos Garland, and accomplished musician and composer Mal Stein. But that’s not all: you’re invited to put on your dancing shoes too!

“Preserving classical dance and its history goes hand-in-hand with fortifying dance educational programs for the next generation,” explains founder Susan Dodge. “The AIDF wants both—to bring world-class dance to Amelia Island for entertainment, but additionally, we seek to engage the wider public through extensive dance education and community outreach.”

To get you on your toes, the festival is offering workshops with top instructors who will bring out the dancer in everyone. Open to all levels, workshops spanning different dance styles will take place on the same weekend at locations across the island, including Royal Amelia Dance Academy, Crane Island, Amelia Community Theatre, and Club 14 Fitness. Learn more and purchase tickets at www.ameliaislanddancefestival.org.

“Amelia’s natural beauty lends itself to creativity in unique settings, inspiring movement, and choreography, and we are honored to form community relationships through the enjoyment of dance,” says Dodge.

JUL I E

HI STO RY

BAR ZIN RETURNS IN ONE LOCATION WITH AMELIA ISLAND WINE COMPANY AT PALMETTO WALK

COURTESY BARZIN

One of Amelia Island’s favorite neighborhood restaurants and wine bars—Bar Zin—is welcoming back guests after a short sabbatical. “My original concept was a quaint bistro tucked beneath the trees of Palmetto Walk,” explains founder and owner Tim Seyda. “We opened with less than 15 tables, and the rug in the first room came from my own home’s dining room.

After 10 great years, we took some downtime to reevaluate our purpose. In reopening, we are back to the basics: a creative and extensive wine list, upscale comfort food you have always loved in a tapas-style menu, and always friendly service.”

Bar Zin is open Tuesday through Sunday each week, and Tim invites everyone to come experience what’s new on the menu, as well as some classic favorites. “People love that we added TV’s. A new menu favorite is the Scallops over Risotto, but the tried-and-true Tuna Crunch is still a top choice.”

Another surprise is the addition of Amelia Island Wine Company inside the same digs, giving customers the chance to dine and shop in one location. “After a break, we feel refreshed, but man, we missed seeing our loyal customers. We can’t wait to catch up with our regulars—and make new friends—this summer.”

22 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • AUGUST 2021

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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23 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • AUGUST 2021

www.AmeliaIslander.com

GALLERIES

ANTIQUES AND MORE

a n t& iques

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

PLANTATION ARTISTS’ GUILD & GALLERY BLUE DOOR ARTISTS 205 1⁄2 Centre Street • 556-7783 D’AGNESE CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY 205 1/2 Centre Street • 261-6044 or 556-2014 ISLAND ART ASSOCIATION COOPERATIVE GALLERY 18 North 2nd Street • 261-7020 JW FRAME GALLERY 1875-B South 14th Street • 310-6610

T

he sylvan setting of the Plantation Artists’ Guild & Gallery (recently rechristened as PAGG) has always made it a delightful place to stop in and browse.

Of late, however, the onset of social distancing and other Covid precautions has kept some visitors at arm’s length.

Members of the not-for-profit artist cooperative refused to accept limitations and have risen to the occasion, harnessing technology to bring their art to the screens and devices of visitors.

Trish Jones, Karen Bowden, and Cindy Jenkins, three new additions to the PAGG roster, turned a challenge into an opportunity and have been instrumental in launching a new website and social media campaign. The site, along with links to a social media platform, is a virtual tour of every piece on display in the gallery at any given time. Profiles of the artists accompany the work.

Using the Facebook messenger system, a virtual visitor or prospective buyer can make an appointment for a private in-person showing in order to avoid contact with other patrons.

PAGG’s Facebook page currently has more than 1,000 followers. Two other venues on Amelia Island feature the

artwork of PAGG members: the Isle of Amelia Executive Suites, Osprey Village, and the Amelia Island Real Estate Services at the Omni Resort.

Two categories of membership support PAGG’s community of art enthusiasts. One is the “Exhibiting Member” category for those who, after meeting certain criteria, exhibit their art. These members also staff the gallery, hold an office, or serve on a committee. Currently, that membership total stands at 41 artists. The second type of membership is the “Art Lovers Membership,” which is for those who choose not to exhibit but want to support the Gallery and Guild by participating in events, presentations, lessons, workshops, and classes. They may also choose to assist by acting as gallery hosts.

PAGG was formed to promote art enrichment in the community, as a showcase for artists, as a platform for the activities of the Guild, and to sustain an active and growing membership. For more information, call (904) 432-1750 or visit paggart.com, or see them on Facebook at Plantation Artists’ Guild & Gallery.

24 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • AUGUST 2021

ISLAND TREASURES 1104 South 8th Street • 261-8887 MAURER FINE ART AT EIGHT FLAGS ANTIQUE MART 602 Centre St • 261-8276 MINE HILL TRADING CO. 5210 First Coast Hwy • 310-6823 MEAD’S FRAMERY & TROPHY Corner of A1A & Hwy 17 • 225-2195 PLANTATION ARTISTS’ GUILD & GALLERY 94 Amelia Village Circle • 432-1750 THE PLANTATION SHOP 4828 First Coast Hwy • 261-2030 TRAILER PARK COLLECTIBLES 702 Centre Street • 491-4461

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25 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • AUGUST 2021

www.AmeliaIslander.com

IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD with Mandy Haynes

L

L. Moore Aesthetics

PHOTO BY SHERRY CARTER

Jan Lacovelli, Susan Dowling, Laurie Moore, Kirsten Bocian

aurie Smith Moore loves making people feel better. “It can be improving their skin, helping them with a regimen that fits their lifestyle and gives great results, or simply offering a place they can relax and destress,” says Laurie. Born in Seattle, Washington, Laurie moved to Amelia Island in 2011, working at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Amelia Island. Laurie graduated from Clary Sage College in 2007 with a degree in aesthetics, working as an aesthetician in Tulsa, Oklahoma after graduation.

Laurie saw the need for a skincare professional on Amelia Island who could provide effective and relaxing treatments at non-resort spa prices. In 2017, L. Moore Aesthetics was created.

“I love the small-town feel of the island and the community support for small businesses and people in general. My clients have been so supportive of me and my growth.” Laurie offers a comprehensive yet simple approach to skincare, while making every client feel comfortable. If you have not seen Laurie’s blog, which is available on her business’s website, be sure to take a look.

A busy wife and mother, Laurie still finds time to enjoy life. “I love being a mom to my six-year-old daughter, Frankie. We are in the process of remodeling a commercial building, The Loft at 1815, where L. Moore Aesthetics will relocate to this summer. We’ll be expanding, adding another aesthetician as well as “Emjecting”, a new business operated by a local medical professional offering injectables and medical treatments.” For more information, call (904) 222-6053 or visit www.lmooreaesthetics.com.

B

Wadsworth’s

PHOTO BY SHERRY CARTER

renda DeMarco came to Amelia Island in 1992 and fell in love with the charm of the island. “After living in New England and not liking the snow, I found a place with my favorite three seasons.” Wadsworth’s, named after Brenda’s dog (may he rest in peace), is a small-town, family-owned business with name-brand island resort wear and accessories in Fernandina Beach.

Founded in 2004, Wadsworth’s was a former high-end menswear boutique called Wadsworth’s Fine Menswear. Brenda and her daughter continued it as a menswear store until 2012.

After being asked by many customers to open a women’s store with the same flavor, Brenda decided to add women’s clothing to the mix. From the minute you walk through Wadsworth’s door, you are greeted like an old friend. Brenda shops with her customers in mind and hand-selects pieces just for you. Can’t find what you’re looking for? She’ll special order your size and color, then ship it directly to you.

“I realize I found my calling. I like working with the public every day. The relationships I’ve built over the years with my customers and tourists alike has been wonderful. I am so grateful for my customers, not to mention my current staff, who are a huge part of Wadsworth’s success. This island has a sense of community I’ve never seen anywhere else, a perfect example of which is the “Foar from Home” team. Everyone here steps up and have all become like family.” Stop in Wadsworth’s today at 204 Centre Street or visit www.wadsworthapparel.com.

26 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • AUGUST 2021

Brenda DeMarco www.AmeliaIslander.com

An Island Tradition for 42 Years!

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

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

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BEACHCOMBING

Precious Pearls Be bold and beautiful with Pearl’s unique clothing and accessories, like this 3-strand Mother of Pearls from the sea, handcrafted and dyed in a dozen colors to elevate your summer look! This “must-have” piece can be worn short or long to suit any outfit. A great gift at $78! Available at Pearl, 502 Centre Street. (904) 844-2912.

Happy Hemp Get your pet a little Healthy Hemp Pet Relief! It relieves pain, inflammation, stress, anxiety, joints and mobility, seizures, aging issues, and digestive problems and nausea. CannaDrops, $39.99; CannaBalm, $34.99; Edibites, $7.99; True Leaf Soft Chews, $19.99. Available at Redbones Dog Bakery & Boutique, South 8th Street. (904) 321-0020.

Sensational Spices & Teas

Beautiful Bags Lemongrass offers a wide variety of clothing, footwear, and accessories for men and women, including their own brand, BED-STU, which features footwear and bags that are handcrafted and hand-dyed vegetable tanned leather. Large bag, $295; small wristlet/crossbody, $175; shoe, $155. Available at lemongrass, 215 Centre Street.

(904) 310-6718.

Come smell the Florida Sunshine! At The Spice & Tea Exchange, we have more than 85 custom spice blends made in-store daily, more than 60 loose leaf teas from around the world, and hot or iced tea to go! Family owned and operated.

Available at The Spice & Tea Exchange, 316 Centre Street.

Downtown Fernandina Beach.

29 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • AUGUST 2021

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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30 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • AUGUST 2021

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Dinnerware items found in Haiti from the French ship Tounant.

Hal Mathers with one of his handmade boat models.

Doug Pope

MARITIME MAGIC With artifacts from shipwrecks, cannons, and U.S. Navy memorabilia, the Maritime Museum of Amelia Island has lots of stories to share, including real-life treasure hunts.

BY MANDY HAYNES • PHOTOS BY SHERRY CARTER

L

ocated in downtown Fernandina Beach, the Maritime Museum of Amelia Island is a hidden treasure full of lots of interesting local history. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Amelia Island was a popular refuge for pirates and bootleggers of liquor, slaves, and stolen treasure. Fernandina’s port is one of the deepest along the southeast coast of the United States, which made it easily accessible to all ships even at low tide. At one point, it’s said that there were so many pirate galleons anchored in the harbor that you could walk from one ship to another.

Some of the famous pirates to inhabit Amelia Island include Jean LaFitte, Blackbeard, and Captain Kidd, but the most infamous pirate was Luis Aury, who tried to take over the island in 1817. When you take the pirate history of Amelia Island and add stories of Spanish treasure lost at sea right off the coast here in 1715, some of which has been found by the Maritime Museum’s Doug Pope and his crew,

you can’t help but imagine what it would be like to find some of those treasures yourself.

“Every one of us is born with treasure hunter in our DNA,” says Doug, an experienced diver and treasure hunter. “We’re all hoping that we’ll find something of value during our lifetime.”

And he should know. With 30 years of experience searching for and finding treasures, he has the loot and the stories to prove it.

But Doug isn’t just a treasure hunter; he’s an innovator who, together with the Amelia Research and Recovery team, designed the lift boat known as the Polly L. Doug is also a decorated helicopter pilot who served in Vietnam and Operation Desert Storm, as well as the owner and head storyteller of the museum.

And he has some stories to tell.

Hanging from a chain around Doug’s neck is the very first coin his company found. He says it’s worth around $3 million. continued on next page

31 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • AUGUST 2021

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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AmeliaIslandRealEstateToday.com 32 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • AUGUST 2021

“That’s about how much money we’ve spent over the years to keep hunting treasure. You’ve seen the boat.” He’s talking about the Polly L, the Amelia Research and Recovery vessel, one of the most sophisticated treasure hunting ships on the water. With the working platform raised, she can stay on site for extended periods of time, which results in huge savings in fuel consumption– about the same amount of fuel in a 24 hour day that most conventional salvage vessels burn in an hour.

After learning a little bit about how the Polly L works at the Maritime Museum, you get to see some of the items from actual expeditions. You’ll also see pieces of copper from ships that date back to the 1700’s, pottery, utensils, cannons, U.S. Navy memorabilia, weapons from multiple eras, and too many things to mention here.

Also on display at the museum are three models constructed by volunteer Hal Mathers. My favorite is the replica of the ocean liner that Hal, his wife, and their baby daughter immigrated to America on from England in 1958. The detail is incredible. Every little piece of the flooring—every plank—was made completely by hand. It took him 10 years to complete. Everywhere you look in the museum you’ll find a story.

If you’re interested in maritime history, want to see pieces of actual shipwrecks and some of the treasures they carried, and hear stories from real life treasure hunters, then you have to stop by the museum, located downtown on South 2nd Street. And if you’d like to help share the stories, they are also looking for volunteers.

“It’s been a rough year,” says Doug.

“Without the support from volunteers and from people like the Moore family, we wouldn’t be here.” The Moores own the building where the museum is located. When they learned that Doug was having a hard time making ends meet during the pandemic, they cut his rent in half.

“Come September, we’re going to start having our Friday night functions again and we have plans for another treasure hunt soon. If you want to join us, we’d love to have you.”

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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1008 South 14th Street 33 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • AUGUST 2021

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Golf as it should be.

La Confrerie de la Chaine des Rotisseurs was founded in 1248 during the reign of King Louis IX of France and remains today the oldest culinary society in the World headquartered in Paris, France initially as a guild of “Les Oyers” or “Goose Roasters” of the King. Gentleman members are knighted in the French Court with the initial title of “Chevalier” and Lady members are knighted as “Dames de la Chaine.” Within the Chaine, there is also the “L’Ordre Mondial des Gourmets Degustateurs” for those members who have a special knowledge of, or interest in, wine and spirits. Amelia Island is fortunate to have a local chapter called a Bailliage and local members enjoy fine dining and friendship frequently during the year at gourmet dinners and wine tastings.

Membership is by invitation only, but the local chapter is always open to new members who enjoy fine wine and dining and camaraderie of the table.

Over the past years the Amelia Island Bailliage has enjoyed outstanding dinner events at the following restaurants and is proud to recommend them as outstanding dining venues: Les Clos • Lagniappe • Espana • Bob’s Omni Amelia The Golf Club of Amelia Island • Baxter’s • The Capital Grille, St. Johns Town Center Interested parties are welcome to contact R. Griffin at Rosgriffin@gmail.com for more information as well as any restaurants who would be interested in hosting a La Chaine dinner event.

34 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • AUGUST 2021

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MAP | TIDES AT THE AMELIA RIVER | AUGUST 2021 DAY

LOW

1 SUN 9:44 AM 10:33 PM 2 MON

PORT OF FERNANDINA BEACH

10:31 AM 11:24 PM

NORTH BEACH

AMELIA ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE

3 TUE 4 WED 5 THU 6 FRI

MAIN BEACH

7 SAT 8 SUN 9 MON 10 TUE 11 WED 12 THU 13 FRI

SEASIDE PARK

11:19 AM 12:13 AM 12:08 PM 1:01 AM 12:56 PM 1:47 AM 1:43 PM 2:31 AM 2:29 PM 3:12 AM 3:12 PM 3:52 AM 3:56 PM 4:31 AM 4:39 PM 5:10 AM 5:26 PM 5:53 AM 6:16 PM 6:39 AM 7:12 PM

14 SAT 7:29 AM 8:13 PM 15 SUN 8:25 AM 9:17 PM 16 MON

FERNANDINA BEACH GOLF CLUB

9:24 AM 10:20 PM 17 TUE 10:25 AM 11:23 PM 18 WED

PETER’S POINT

19 THU 20 FRI

RITZ CARLTON

21 SAT

SUMMER BEACH

23 MON

22 SUN

24 TUE 25 WED

AMERICAN BEACH

26 THU 27 FRI 28 SAT

11:26 AM 12:23 AM 12:27 PM 1:21 AM 1:26 PM 2:16 AM 2:22 PM 3:06 AM 3:14 PM 3:52 AM 4:03 PM 4:35 AM 4:50 PM 5:16 AM 5:35 PM 5:57 AM 6:22 PM 6:38 AM 7:10 PM 7:20 AM 8:02 PM

29 SUN 8:06 AM 8:55 PM

OMNI AMELIA ISLAND RESORT 30 MON

8:56 AM 9:49 PM 31 TUE 9:47 AM 10:42 PM

TO ST. JOHN’S RIVER FERRY

AMELIA ISLAND STATE PARK

HIGH 3:36 AM 4:12 PM 4:27 AM 5:05 PM 5:20 AM 5:58 PM 6:13 AM 6:49 PM 7:05 AM 7:37 PM 7:54 AM 8:23 PM 8:40 AM 9:08 PM 9:26 AM 9:50 PM 10:10 AM 10:33 PM 10:55 AM 11:15 PM 11:40 AM 11:58 PM 12:26 PM 12:43 AM 1:15 PM 1:30 AM 2:07 PM 2:22 AM 3:04 PM 3:18 AM 4:07 PM

Results That Move You

Diane van Lanen, REALTOR® 904.321.7621 diane.vanlanen@chaplinwilliams.com www.diane.chaplinwilliams.com

4:21 AM 5:15 PM 5:27 AM 6:20 PM 6:32 AM 7:21 PM 7:33 AM 8:17 PM 8:29 AM 9:08 PM 9:22 AM 9:57 PM 10:12 AM 10:42 PM 11:00 AM 11:25 PM 11:44 AM 12:06 AM 12:27 PM 12:46 AM 1:09 PM 1:25 AM 1:51 PM

Nassau Jewelry Co. Your Custom Jeweler

2:07 AM 2:36 PM 2:53 AM 3:25 PM 3:43 AM 4:20 PM

3 SIZES AVAILABLE

AUGUST Weather Avg. High 88 degrees Avg. Low 75 degrees Avg. Precip 5.34 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.

35 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • AUGUST 2021

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36 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • AUGUST 2021

Qu ns & Kings of Amelia Island “Live Pageant”!

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AROUND TOWN 2021

AUGUST Into Africa Art Show Plantation Artists’ Guild & Gallery will feature artwork of exhibiting member’s that explore the beauty and intrigue of Africa during the month of August. Plantation Artists Guild & Gallery, Masks still required. 94 Amelia Village Circle in the Omni Amelia Island Resort shops. (904) 432-1750.Visit paggart.com for hours.

AUGUST Gentle Seated Yoga Great for those with mobility and balance issues, Parkinson’s, MS other neurological conditions.

Must be able to come into the studio and sit on a yoga chair unassisted. Classes held and Mondays and Wednesdays 12:30-1:30 p.m.We are a handicap accessible studio. Drop in $22, 5 class pass $70. Online or In-Studio options.

Community Yoga + Wellness, 210 Beech Street.

(904) 613-6345. www.cyoga-amelia.com

AUGUST 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26 West Coast Swing and Waltz Two for Tuesday group classes on Amelia Island with West Coast Swing at 7 p.m. followed

by Waltz at 8 p.m. Two for Tuesday classes are $15 for one class or $20 for both classes per person. A dance workshop is offered on Thursdays from 7-8:30 p.m.; Thursday classes are $15 per person. Ballroom On Amelia, 1897 Island Walkway at RAD Studios. No partner or reservation is required. Call (904) 624-0886, visit ballroomonmelia.com or Facebook.

AUGUST 5, 6, 8, 12, 13, 14, 15 The Sound of Music Enjoy this classic story on stage at Amelia Musical Playhouse. 1955 Island Walkway.

Tickets range in price $5-$25. Show time is 7 p.m. and Sundays 5 p.m. Please visit ameliamusicalplayhouse.com for more info, or email info@ameliamusicalplayhouse.com or call (904) 277-3455.

AUGUST 7 Looking for Hope Local author Mbinguni, with roots in West Africa and the Gullah Geechee nation, talks about her “coming of age” novel in which a shy and quiet little girl, Hannah “Mouse” Maynard, becomes a strong and assertive woman. Free and open to all.

4 p.m. Story & Song Bookstore & Bistro, 1430 Park Avenue. RSVP (904) 601-2118

AUGUST 8 An Evening of Story & Opera The Amelia Island Opera Company, featuring Robyn Marie Lamp, Victoria Isernia and John

AUGUST

Tibbetts II, accompanied by pianist Ji Yung Lee, perform a concert of music and stories from the world’s most beloved operas. $20 tickets. 2 p.m. Story & Song Bookstore Bistro, 1430 Park Avenue. (904) 601-2118 for reservations.

group of veterans as they travel across the sea bringing awareness to the issues veterans face.

This is a family friendly event, children and pets welcome. Parade route/parade begins on Ash and 11th streets at 10 a.m.

AUGUST 10, 17, 24, Healing Yoga Course

AUGUST 21 An Evening of Story & Song: A Touch of April

For those with pain, limited mobility, Parkinsons, MS, surgery recovery, back, knees and shoulder discomfort. $89 for 6 sessions and homework. No yoga experience necessary.

Community Yoga + Wellness 210 Beech Street (904) 613-6345. cyoga-amelia.com

AUGUST 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, 22, 26, 27, 28 You Can’t Take It With You Amelia Community Theatre presents in-person and live-streamed performances of this classic play. Love triumphs over all in this side splitting comedy by Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman.

Performances are at 8 p.m. on August 13-14, 19-21, 26-28 and 2 p.m. on August 15 and 22.

In-person tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for students in the Main Stage theatre at 207 Cedar St. Livestreaming tickets are $15 for individuals and $30 for a household of 2-4 people. For tickets, visit AmeliaCommunityTheatre.org or call (904) 261-6749.

AUGUST 18 New Neighbor Night All newcomers to Amelia Island are invited to meet, mingle, and make new friends. Live music, beverages at Happy Hour prices. 5 p.m.-7 p.m.

Free. Story & Song Bookstore Bistro, 1430 Park Avenue. RSVP to (904) 601-2118.

AUGUST 19, 20, 21 “Perfect Wedding”

Songwriter and vocalist April Amick and guitar wiz Belton Caughman are A Touch of April, performing their original music. $20 tickets.

5:00 p.m. Call (904) 601-2118 for reservations.

Story & Song Bookstore Bistro located at 1430 Park Avenue.

AUGUST 23–28 4-Year Anniversary Celebration Sale!

Come to our new location and shop, save, and support local. During the celebrationm we will be offering: up to 25% off on products & services, new treatments, bookings for spa events, gift certificates, and fabulous prizes. 9 a.m. -5 p.m. daily. L. Moore Aesthetics, 1815 S. 8th Street.Visit lmooreaesthetics.com for more info.

AUGUST 25 100 Leadership Insights Vernon Myers is a passionate leader of people and organizations. He’ll talk about 100 Leadership Insights, preparing you to take action. 4:00 p.m. Free and open to all. Story & Song Bookstore Bistro 1430 Park Avenue. RSVP to (904) 601-2118

AUGUST 27 Literary Lunch with Terry Roberts

Amelia Musical Playhouse presents “Perfect Wedding”. This hilarious comedy directed by Bill Ivins features a small cast and big laughs. Show times are 7:30 p.m. and Sunday 5 p.m. Tickets are $10-$20. AMP is located at 1955 Island Walkway.

For more info, visit ameliamusicalplayhouse.com or call (904) 277-3455.

Award-winning author Terry Roberts talks about his latest novel, set on Ellis Island in 1920. My Mistress’ Eyes Are Raven Black is a noir thriller that explores just how far some human beings will go to protect racial purity and condemn those they fear. 12:30 p.m. $40 tickets include lunch, beverage, and a copy of the book. Story & Song Bookstore Bistro, 1430 Park Avenue. Call (904) 601-2118 for reservations.

AUGUST 21 Ship-off Parade

AUGUST 28 Terry Kelly Skate Jam

A grand send off supporting the Foar From Home Team. Hupp, Paul, Billy, and Cam will participate in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge, launching from the Canary Islands rowing 3,000 nautical miles across the Atlantic Ocean to Antigua. Come out and support this

6th Annual Skate Competition, all ages and skill levels.There will be food, drinks and prizes. Main Beach skate park at 4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

37 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • AUGUST 2021

For more Amelia Island events, please visit ameliaislander.com/calendar.

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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Amelia Island Bailliage’s founders Bill Palin and Garry Fehrman

CAMARADERIE of theTABLE

Gathering regularly in homes and local restaurants, the Amelia Island Bailliage of La Chaine du Rotisseurs celebrates the camaraderie of the table and the finest food and wine.

BY JULIE SIMMONS • PHOTOS BY SHERRY CARTER

O

n Amelia Island, we love a celebration, and a special group of local residents finds unique occasions to gather together and celebrate, such as, in July, Argentina’s Independence Day. A dedicated group of gastronomes, La Chaîne Bailliage de Amelia Island is part of La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs™ International, the world’s oldest food and wine society, and they celebrate good company, fine wine, and extraordinary cuisine.

With a long history dating to 1248 in France, the Confrerie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs was founded to cultivate and develop the culinary arts. Today, it is the largest and most prestigious culinary organization in the world, with more than 21,000 members in 80-plus countries, and around 130 bailliages, or chapters, and 6,000 members here in the United States. The goal of the bailliages is to bring together people who are passionate about sharing extraordinary culinary experiences.

Amelia Island Bailliage’s summer Argentinian event was hosted by the Bailli (or president), Dr. Rawson (Ross) and Dame Clark Griffin, and their neighbor, Dame Mary Pardue. When I arrived, I was warmly welcomed and invited to a champagne reception, where empanadas prepared 3 ways by Chef Xylina Green, owner of Island Personal Chefs, were served.

As I got to know the members, I learned that one formerly owned and kept a vineyard, another was a New York City restauranter, and all were well-traveled, sharing stories about

their recent adventures and safaris to Utah, Napa Valley, Japan, Africa, and beyond.

“What makes La Chaîne unique from other culinary organizations is its inclusion of both amateurs and professionals,” Ross explains. “For example, a bailliage may include sommeliers and critics alongside laypersons interested in learning and sharing their experiences, but the key is that we all commit to the core values of La Chaîne – ‘I shall always honor the art of cuisine and the culture of the table, and I shall always fulfill my obligations of camaraderie and of respect for my fellow members.’”

After spending an evening with them, I can attest that La Chaîne members live their values and have a great time in so doing. Moreover, there is abundant conversation, and particularly intriguing for me was learning the origin of the decorated ribbons that members wore to denote their level of membership and participation. Because La Chaîne is international, members are welcomed to attend events anywhere they travel and receive pins as memorabilia and to denote position.

For dinner, the servers poured 2018 Catena Zapata “DV Catena – Tinto Historico” Red Blend Mendoza and 2018 Bodegas Aleanna “El Enemigo” Chardonnay Mendoza continued on next page

39 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • AUGUST 2021

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and served a gorgeous Argentinean hearts of palm salad garnished with avocado, tomato, and shrimp, tossed in cilantro lime dressing. As we dined, Ross explained that many of the events are hosted in members’ homes, but the group also enjoys dining with their favorite Amelia Island restaurant partners, including Bob’s Steak & Chop House, Espana, Lagniappe, and Le Clos.

The main course presented Argentinean Beef Tenderloin with Chimichurri Sauce and Grilled Summer Vegetables and Potatoes. This course showcased the evening’s featured wine, a 2005 Catena “Alta” Malbec Mendoza, featuring signed bottles by the winemaker, Laura Catena. As the servers presented the plates, Ross reminded the group of the La Chaîne rule—you may eat when served to enjoy the chef’s preferred temperature, and there is no salt and pepper on the table because the chef has impeccably prepared the plate.

After dinner, Ross treated me to a sneak-peek in his temperaturecontrolled cellar and told me stories of his bottles and accompanying travels. I learned about the networking involved to procure great wines, and the rich lifetime of friendships that blossoms from this shared love. The evening drew to a close with a dessert reception next-door at Dame Mary Pardue home, where we enjoyed Sopa Inglesa (Summer Cake) and The Dragon Cognac.

Membership in Chaîne Bailliage de Amelia Island La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs™ is by personal invitation, but if you’re interested, this heart-felt group is keen to meet you. Visit ameliaisland.chaineus. org to learn more.

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snapShots AT THE FOURTH OF JULY DOWNTOWN CELEBRATION AND FIREWORKS

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REGGIE, JACON, DYLAN AND DELLIA SILVA

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AT A RECENT SUMMER SERIES BLOCK PARTY AT POGO’S KITCHEN

CHERYL BOWEN AND LACEY HINES

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LAUREN ARIAS AND JULIE CAMPBELL

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AT THE EVANS RENDEZVOUS HISTORICAL MARKER UNVEILING AT AMERICAN BEACH

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REGINA & CALVIN J FEE

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AT A WINE TASTING AT AMELIA ISLAND WINE COMPANY IN PALMETTO WALK

MANDY BUNTING AND LAURA MORRIS

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44 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

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AUGUST 2021

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AUGUST 2021

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ameliacaremanagement.com 47 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

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Miss an issue?

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

48 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

AUGUST 2021

www.AmeliaIslander.com

FERNANDINA FACES

Robin Lentz

BY DICKIE ANDERSON PHOTO BY STEVE LEIMBERG, UNSEENIMAGES.COM

R

obin Lentz, Executive Director of Take Stock in Children, brings a unique package of talents to her job. Her education and career track have been focused on helping children succeed. She is thankful that her skills and talents are bringing opportunities to the children of Amelia Island and Nassau County.

Lentz and her family first moved to the area while her husband was stationed at Kings Bay, Georgia. Her focus after college was on sports journalism. When she found that there were few opportunities in the Jacksonville area, she looked to her next love: teaching children. She taught in Nassau County schools while she pursued her master’s degree in counseling.

Her family loves to travel and they love sports. Robin and her husband are avid runners and have visited every state, including Hawaii, where they completed marathons. The trips were treasured family experiences. Professional baseball is another passion. The family has visited 24 Major League Baseball stadiums and plan to visit the remaining six, including Yankees, Mets, and Red Sox. Her favorite team? The Atlanta Braves!

In her position as middle school student counselor for 12 years, she helped students find the help they needed to succeed.

She encouraged them to participate in successful programs like Take Stock in Children, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Nassau County, and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Nassau County. The programs coordinate their different services to offer students the best chance to succeed. Many participate in more than one program. She saw the difference the programs made in the lives of her students.

A woman of action, Lenz took her turn participating in city politics. Her concern about the missing representation of her generation in city government resulted in a three-year stint as City Commissioner. Her motivation was her concern about the condition of the city public library. She was determined to ensure that the library renovation would be supported and completed. Support for a new library was controversial and 49 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

contentious. She was an effective advocate, and eventually the City Commission committed the funds for the renovation and expansion. It is now a thriving center of community activity.

In the fall of 2018, Take Stock in Children was looking for a new Executive Director. The organization was established in 1995 as a non-profit organization in Florida providing one-on-one support through volunteer mentors, professional college success services, and the opportunity to earn a college scholarship. Lentz felt it was the right time for her. The organization has recently relocated from its original home at Florida State College at Jacksonville to a suite of offices in the Peck Center.

Currently, the program has 163 students and 140 mentors.

Mentors are as enthusiastic about the program as are the students.

Mentors are quick to share that they are the ones enriched by their relationships with their students. Students in the program sign performance contracts agreeing to maintain good grades, exhibit positive behavior, and remain drug- and crime-free.

If all program requirements are met, students are eligible to receive a college tuition scholarship when they graduate high school. Last year, 32 students received scholarships.

Lentz’s enthusiasm for her job is evident. “I truly believe that all my life experiences have led me to my position with Take Stock in Children,” she shares. Her enthusiasm is contagious.

She is eager to recruit even more students and mentors.

AUGUST 2021

www.AmeliaIslander.com

5

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IN THE GARDEN Florida Anise

native shrubs With the heat and humidity of August here, add some interest to your landscape (in the early morning!) with native Florida shrubs like Coontie Palm and Florida Anise.

BY BETTY MORRELL

W

hen it gets to this time of the year, it brings to mind the song, “Lazy, Hazy Days of Summer,” since the heat and humidity that is part of August makes one feel lazy, at least it does for me.

However, early morning or late evening is still a great time for a bit of gardening.

To continue with the native Florida plants that I discussed last month, I found some very nice shrubs, beginning with the Coontie Palm. The Coontie Palm is not actually a palm, but rather a palm-like cycad plant. It is a tough little shrub, so it is perfect for dry areas, tolerates the cold, and doesn’t need special light or soil.

This beautiful, slow-growing 2 to 3 foot by 3 foot plant is one of the smallest cycads. This one is not prickly, so it is safe to plant it near walkways.

It provides an appealing fine-textured look to the landscape.

An underused native shrub is the Florida Anise (Illicium floridanum), which has red to purple flowers in the spring and will grow in part-shade to shade. It rarely has any disease or pest problems. Its dense, dark green

TIP O OF F T HE M O N T H Containers for the garden come in all shapes and sizes. Plastic pots are most commonly used, as plastic or metal can become very hot in direct sun. Clay pots are cooler but plants in clay pots require more water since they are porous. You can avoid constant watering by placing a smaller pot into a larger one, separating the two with sand or sphagnum moss.

foliage and maximum height of 12 to 15 feet makes this a great choice for informal hedging.

If you have a backyard fence, it makes an attractive cover. Mixing it with Camellias and Azaleas show off this evergreen very nicely. By the way, this is not Spice Anise, so do not use it in cooking as the leaves are toxic.

I came across a really wonderful shrub that would be a great addition to any garden or I a container. It is Dragon Prince (Cryptomeria). This dwarf, rounded evergreen shrub is a hybrid of the Japanese Cedar. It adds texture

51 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

AUGUST 2021

and beauty year-round with its stiff, light green foliage. The Dragon Prince grows 2 to 3 feet in height and 3 to 4 feet in width. Being a slow grower, it is an excellent candidate for containers or accent plants.

Dragon Prince would look wonderful massed in a woodland garden, or grouped in borders or low hedges. It loves the sun, tolerates heat and drought well, and it requires little maintenance.

A new Encore Azalea named Autumn Majesty arrived a short time ago. This new Azalea is definitely eyecatching, with masses of glowing petite, semi-double dark purple blooms in spring, summer, and fall. This repeat bloomer is sure to please everyone.

Autumn Majesty has a compact rounded habit, growing 3 feet high and 3 feet wide. Its evergreen foliage stays bright green in the winter. What a beauty! It is available at Lowes, Home Depot, and Liberty Landscape. You will love this one.

If you have any questions, email me at bamorrell@gmail.com. In the meantime, Happy Gardening!

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ISLAND HOME

Left: A handsome rocking chair built by Walton Rogers was inspired by furniture designer Sam Maloof.

Below: The spacious main living area has an open design, which opens out to the deck.

perfectly positioned

BY DICKIE ANDERSON • PHOTOS BY NEAL SMITH, ECVT PHOTOGRAPHY

W

alton and Linda Rogers first found Amelia Island while attending a conference. Like so many visitors, they fell in love with the island and returned year after year from their home in Annapolis, Maryland. Walton is a financial planner and Linda a nurse practitioner.

They initially purchased a condo, then eventually decided to build or buy a house. The Rogers found a house on a lot that was exactly where they wanted to be. They decided to make needed changes and reimagined the original house, making it their own.

The 3,000 square foot house fronts on the 12th hole of Oak Marsh in Amelia Island Plantation, and the back looks over the 55 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

12th hole of Long Point Golf Club and the marsh. Nearly every window in the house offers a dramatic panoramic view.

An extensive renovation resulted in exactly the house they wanted, and where they wanted it. They are quick to credit their Jacksonville builder Lew Blinn and Sue Sergent of Starfish Designs for their ideas and the execution of the dramatic reconfiguration of the main level of the house.

The original house offered great challenges. The dining room had walls that were covered with mirrors. The walls went, and so did the mirrors! With the changes, the windows had to be moved to balance them with the new floor plan. The

AUGUST 2021

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ISLAND HOME E

Inset: A beautiful handcrafted mirror was created by Walton.

Top: The dining area looks into the kitchen, with its large island for preparing dinners and entertaining.

Above: Inspired by nature, Linda’s painting of two sea turtles was designed for the landing space.

56 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

result is an open-space plan that flows from the entry to the sunroom at the back of the house. In the living room, they removed a fireplace, which allowed for the addition of space in a downstairs bedroom.

Floors throughout are warm engineered teak, and the walls are a soft grey. The kitchen area of the main living space is inviting with blues and grays. A generously sized quartzite island offers an abundance of working space. The deep blue base adds contrast in color to the smooth white surface. Appliances are KitchenAid. The back wall of the kitchen area adds a dramatic statement.

Hand-painted brick shaped tiles in shades of grays and blues offer a unique design feature. Lighted cabinet boxes in place of soffits offer striking display space for Linda’s collection of colorful glass. Two different eating areas offer choices when it is time to gather.

Furnishings throughout the house are very personal.

Walton is a lifelong woodworker with a degree in forestry, and

AUGUST 2021

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ISLAND HOME

Top: The large master bedroom has panoramic views of the golf course.

Above: The comfortable guest room opens on to a lovely private sunroom.

58 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

he is a member of the Maryland Woodworkers Guild. Many of the furnishings in the house are his creations, including ten tables, several desks, a bookcase, and two mirrors. He delights in making furniture for family and friends, as well as beds for his grandchildren. As Walton shares, “I never met a piece of wood I didn’t like.”

He has also built several boats, including an Adirondack Guide Boat and a Sport Kayak. Adirondack Guide Boats are well-known for their design, which allows for efficient navigation on the rivers and lakes in the mountainous regions of New York State. The deck of the Sport Kayak is constructed of five different kinds of wood and highly varnished. It is both highly functional and a work of art.

In one corner of the living room, a beautifully crafted rocking chair invites a sit-down. It is Walton’s pride and joy. During a week-long workshop, Walton crafted a rocking chair inspired by the famous California furniture designer Sam Maloof.

Linda’s talents include her hobby of painting. Her paintings hang on the walls throughout the house. She delights in sharing her paintings with friends and family. One of the paintings was AUGUST 2021

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ISLAND HOME

designed for the landing space between the first and second floors. A favorite subject, nature, inspired the painting of a pair of sea turtles swimming toward the viewer.

Landscaping hugs the house and includes colorful plantings. Instead of a traditional lawn, the front area is instead a delightful garden. Passersby comment on the dancing butterflies that frequent the garden. Impressed with the plantings around POGO’s Kitchen, designed by landscaper Doug Gates, they contacted him. Gates redesigned a charming front yard garden space with a variety of unique and eye-catching flowering plants.

Walton and Linda utilized treasured family furnishings, many of them antiques, in their décor. The old and the newer handcrafted furnishings combine successfully. The couple has created their own special home by renovating an existing home and making the changes to customize it to their needs. They delight in visits from family, including their seven grandchildren.

60 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

Inset: A stunning Sport Kayak built by Walton from five different woods is ready for action.

Top: The home’s generous deck overlooks the golf course and the marsh.

Above: The front yard garden was designed by landscaper Doug Gates to attract butterflies.

AUGUST 2021

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61 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

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EATING SCENE

Fancy Sushi JAPANESE GRILL AND SUSHI BAR Serving up delicious sushi and hibachi since 2007, Fancy Sushi continues to delight locals and visitors alike with creative and fresh daily specials and innovative sushi rolls.

BY MICHAEL GASS • PHOTO BY SHERRY CARTER

O

n Amelia Island, we are fortunate to have lots of options when it comes to cuisine, but when your appetite turns to sushi, accept no substitutions. Fancy Sushi Japanese Grill and Sushi Bar is the best in town. When it comes to quality, customer service, and consistency, they cannot be beaten.

Recently my dear friend Melisa Carrol and I met for dinner to catch up and talk all things hurricane season. We’ve known each other since high school, but we really got to know each other a few years back when we both had to hit the road when the storms came in and we hunkered down with our families and a gaggle of friends on a farm in central Georgia.

Safe from the summer heat once inside, we were seated near the sushi bar with a view of the dining room and the sushi chefs. The service at Fancy Sushi is always friendly and prompt, but on this night, thanks to the unpredictable nature of a restaurant schedule, our server was none other than owner Susan Wang herself.

62 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

We are an easy table; I could probably fill out my sushi order blindfolded. Our drinks quickly arrived, followed by bowls of piping hot Mayabi, the delicious clear broth with thinly sliced mushrooms and crumbled tempura cracker, and an order of tempura battered kani, or artificial crab stick drizzled with shrimp sauce. The fact that these dishes are complimentary and given to every customer makes me feel no less special when they smile and place it on my table. A tall Sapporo in a frosty mug for me and an icy sake for Melisa, and we were ready to indulge.

Typically when I come in, I always order steamed Gyoza and an order of Wakame or Seaweed Salad to start our meal.

But tonight, we were going to focus on the sushi. Melisa had always picked from the hibachi section on the menu and enjoyed a roll or two, but she wanted to branch out. I placed an order for my favorites, a double order of Tuna, Escolar, Yellowtail, and Baby Octopus, prepared Nigiristyle on a balls of seasoned rice. I also ordered the Fancy Q, which is my favorite specialty roll. It has spicy tuna and avocado rolled with nori and seasoned rice, then blanketed by thin layers of escolar and topped again with paper thin slices of avocado and drizzled with a smoky eel sauce. It is beautiful and delicious.

We also let Susan talk us into trying something really new from the special board: a signature Calamari Squid Roll, an entrée of a roll if I’ve had one. The roll consists of a shrimp and avocado roll wrapped inside a calamari tube, then seasoned and flash-fried and served with a drizzle of spicy shrimp and eel sauces. This is a little outside of the box for a lot of diners, but if you’re tired of the same-old, do yourself a favor. It was divine.

Fancy Sushi Japanese Grill and Sushi Bar has been delighting customers since 2007, and they have added several new items to the special board, with more new menu items on the way. They can be found on Sadler Road across the street from the Publix shopping center or online at fancysushiq.com.

AUGUST 2021

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dining out AMELIA ISLANDER

DINING GUIDE Amelia Island Coffee ~ For more than 16 years, Amelia Island Coffee has been a welcoming place to meet. This family-owned business features friendly service, locally roasted single-source coffee, cold brew, select organic teas and freshly baked pastries, pies and cakes. Breakfast and lunch are served all day, along with small plates and appetizers in the evening. You’ll find a selection of mainstream and craft beers along with varietal wines, as well as ice cream, milkshakes, frappes, fruit smoothies and frozen lemonade. The ambiance of a 100-year-old building is enhanced by outdoor, pet-friendly dining.

Open 7 days, 7 am Mon–Sat and 8 am on Sun. Major credit cards. 207 Centre Street. (904) 321-2111.

Ameliaislandcoffee.com.

Amelia Island Brewing Company ~ on Centre Street provides delicious local food and cold brews to the friends and guests of Amelia Island. Our kitchen serves amped up southern comfort food, where you’ll see enough diversity to be surprised without losing sight of the simple stuff you love. The collection of house brews and craft beer options are curated to match the menu, with plenty of pairings to fit any palette. AIBC is a brewery infused gastropub, or a brewpub with great food, something like that - just stop in, grab a bite and a sip, you’ll see. We are doing it our way, the right way, for you and for this Island.

Bar Zin ~ Our philosophy at Bar Zin is quite simple: create a fun relaxed upbeat indoor/outdoor atmosphere where friends and families can enjoy creative, fresh American bistro cuisine. We offer a diverse beverage menu of great wines, local brews, and Saki martinis.

When possible, we source from local farmers, local products, and local businesses to create a farm-to-table style menu. Our vision is to create a neighborhood atmosphere where everyone will feel welcome; a place where everyone will have a relaxing and fun time. barzin-bistro-winebar.com. Lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch. Major credit cards. 4924 First Coast Hwy at Palmetto Walk Shopping Village. (904) 310-6620.

Brett’s Waterway Cafe ~ The only restaurant on the island where you can dine overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, Brett’s offers a wide choice of seafood, chicken and beef with daily specials both at lunch and dinner. The view of the water, the impeccable service and the refined ambiance will enhance your dining pleasure. The large rectangular bar overlooking the Fernandina Harbor Marina is a pleasant place to enjoy a drink. At the marina on Front Street. (904) 261-2660. Open 7 days, Mon-Sat. Burlingame ~ In the historic district just off Centre Street at 20 South 5th Street, this restaurant offers seasonally inspired modern American food with a twist.

The small menu enables our team to focus on a handful of exquisite dishes developed from the freshest ingredients each season. Our superb service and casually elegant atmosphere create a special experience. Extensive wine/beer list. Reservations recommended. Open 5:30pm Mon – Sat. Closed Sun. (904) 432-7671.

BurlingameRestaurant.com.

Crab Trap ~ Nautical decor and friendly service makes for a casual, relaxing atmosphere. Dinner daily offers seafood—fried, grilled, broiled, or blackened—as well as steaks, chicken and oysters year round. Entrees $8.95 $18.95. Call for seasonal hours. Beer, wine, and cocktails.

Family owned and operated since 1979. 31 N 2nd Street, (904) 261-4749.

David’s Restaurant ~ David’s has an amazing steakhouse & seafood menu, upscale romantic atmosphere, and professional service. New Caviar menu with toast points or Blinis and accoutrements consisting of crème fraiche, red onion, capers & chopped egg. Full bar and large wine menu including wines by the glass. Dining creations such as Filet Oscar, our Signature 16oz. Grilled Delmonico Ribeye, and when available our 24 oz. Porterhouse Steak.

Daily fish specials as well as English Channel Dover Sole & Chilean Sea Bass. Vegetarian & Vegan options. Happy Hour Sunday - Thursday 5 to 7 pm (except Special Events & Holidays). Lounge Menu & Port Flights. Incredible Whole Alaskan King Crab 6-10 lb. average. Full dessert menu and after-dinner cordials. Lounge opens at 5 pm,

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!

BEST SUSHI IN TOWN

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

YULEE 463875 SR 200 (904) 849-7368 M - Th: 11a - 10p F & Sa: 11a - 11p Sunday Closed

AMELIA ISLAND - FLORIDA

LEDDY’S

PORCH

Southern Comfort Food Lunch Wed-Fri 11:00am-2:30pm Come try our fried chicken!

Brunch Sat & Sun ~ 10:00am-2:30pm $10 bottomless Bloody Mary’s & Mimosas!

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232 North 2nd Street Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 904-775-5577

63 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE •

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MERMAID BAR Classic cocktails, great wines, & craft beers Happy Hour ~ 5-7pm Daily Open Mon-Sat 5-10pm Available for private dinners, catering, celebrations, & more.

OUR PHILOSOPHY IS SIMPLE ~ Southern comfort food and interesting cocktails.

22 SOUTH THIRD STREET 904-491-3322 • FLORIDAHOUSEINN.COM

www.AmeliaIslander.com

dining guide dinner at 6 pm, Closed Tuesdays. Young Adult menu available. Reservations highly recommended. Private wine room holds 12 & private dining room up to 50.

Resort casual. 802 Ash Street. (904) 310-6049. Make reservations online at AmeliaIslandDavids.com.

España ~ Featuring Old World cuisine from Portugal and Spain, España offers an intriguing menu in a comfortably elegant atmosphere in downtown Fernandina Beach. Owner/chef Roberto Pestana serves mouthwatering tapas like Grouper Ceviche, Portobello al La España, and Shrimp with Garlic, all served with España’s homemade bread. Entrees include a classic Seafood Paella, and a variety of fresh local seafood and meats. España also features an extensive wine list and an excellent homemade sangria. Available for private parties.

Reservations recommended. Major credit cards. Open 7 days. (904) 261-7700. 22 South 4th Street.

Fancy Sushi ~ We serve fine Japanese cuisine from our Hibachi grill, the best Tempura and the tastiest Teriyaki this side of Tokyo. We give you all the fine foods with friendly service. Come by and give us a visit and we’ll serve you with smiles and the freshest sushi that you won’t find anywhere but here at Fancy Sushi. Open 7 days.

(904) 261-9855. 1478 Sadler Rd. Florida House Inn ~ Southern cooking at its finest at Leddy’s Porch. Menu includes Southern Salads, Sandwiches, Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Collard Greens, and much more. Black Board specials daily. Open for brunch Wed. – Fri. from 11am – 2:30pm and Sat. – Sun. 10am – 2:30pm. The Mermaid Bar at The Florida House Inn is open Mon. – Sat. at 5pm. Daily drink specials and Open Mic every other Thursday night. 22 South Third Street, (904)491-3322.

Joe’s 2nd Street Bistro ~ Located in historic downtown Fernandina, Joe’s 2nd Street Bistro serves innovative cuisine in a relaxed, island atmosphere. Enjoy fresh seafood, game, and specialty dishes in a charming 1903 home, or outside in a New Orleans-inspired courtyard.

Jacksonville Magazine Top 25. Extensive wine list available. Reservations recommended. (904) 321-2558.

Open seven days.

Lagniappe Restaurant ~ [“lan-yap”] One of Jacksonville Magazine’s Top 50 Restaurants and voted #1 Chef and #1 Amelia Island Restaurant by “Best in the 904” voters across NE Florida! From the melting-pot culinary heritage of Charleston, New Orleans, and Savannah comes Lagniappe, where you can always expect a little something more. Chef-owner Brian Grimley’s respect for Southern tradition, culinary curiosity, and a quarterdecade’s experience in Virginia’s Tidewater District shine through a delectable line-up of evolving charcuterie selections, house-smoked meats, and seafood must-haves like po’ boys, salmon brûlée, and the occasional whole fried fish! Dig in with loved ones over wine, considered cocktails, and curated bourbons in a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. Open daily, 11am–10pm; Happy Hour 3pm–6pm; Sunday Southern Breakfast 10am–3pm.

4810 First Coast Hwy. lagniappeamelia.com The Mustard Seed Cafe ~ Located inside Nassau Health Foods, The Mustard Seed is Amelia Island’s only organic eatery and juice bar, with an extensive, eclectic menu featuring vegetarian and vegan items. Daily specials include local seafood, organic chicken and fresh organic produce. Salads, wraps, sandwiches, and soups are available—all prepared with The Mustard Seed’s impeccable style. Popular items are chicken or veggie quesadillas, grilled mahi or salmon over mixed greens and tuna melt with Swiss cheese and tomato. Open for breakfast and lunch, Mon - Sat., 8 am - 3pm, and 10am - 2pm on Sun. NassauHealthFoods.net. 833 T. J. Courson Rd. (904) 277-3141.

Pogo’s Kitchen ~ Serving southern cuisine with a bend, with a menu that celebrates the full medley of Southern flavors. Cocktails and wine selections are simple but creative. Vsit us for dinner, lunch or brunch at POGO’s Kitchen—a bright, open eatery tucked away from the main lines, waiting to unpack your day and refill your glass. (904) 432-8483. pogoskitchen.com.

Pozzi Bistro ~ A new “Old World” style restaurant.

Espresso bar and café by day and a full menu restaurant by night. We offer pastries, espresso drinks, blended shakes, and brunch specialty beverages, and brunch each day. In the evening, come and taste charcuterie, cheese, and wine, or a relaxing meal in our dining room or on our outdoor patio. Our simple menu features steak, lobster, crabcake, and more. Top off your evening with one of our house

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

Meals To Go • Office Lunches Open Mon - Sat 8am - 3pm • Sun Closed 833 TJ Courson Road Fernandina Beach, FL

904-277-3141 www.nassauhealthfoods.net

The place to meet for locally roasted coīee, fresh food, pastries, beer, wine and great company.

Voted #1 coffee shop on the Island*

Locally Owned. Veteran Operated.

Open daily for fresh coīee and tea, breakfast, lunch and aŌernoon snacks.

For Catering info, email ricky@ameliaislandcoīee.com.

Friday Night Trivia Saturday Night PainƟng with Lamar Miles

207 Centre Street 904-321-2111 www.ameliaislandcoīee.com * Trip Advisor, Google, Yelp

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made desserts. Wed - Fri 11am - 9pm; Sat & Sun 9am 9pm. 300 Ash Street. Call (904) 310-3779 or email info@pozzicoffeeandwinebar.com.

Sliders Seaside Grill ~ The Caribbean on Amelia Island!

Exotic seafood and steaks served to order are the specials of the house. Enjoy a beautiful oceanfront view inside, or on the patio, located steps from the beach. Open daily for lunch & dinner. 1998 S. Fletcher Ave. at Sadler Rd. (next to the roundabout). (904) 277-6652.

Story & Song Bistro ~ Neighborhood bookstore/bistro serving breakfast and lunch indoors or in the “secret garden” courtyard. Home of Amelia’s “Wings” murals.

Enjoy favorites like a genuine Bronx bagel, quiche, Ina Garten’s chicken salad, and seasonal specials made with fresh, local ingredients. Organic coffee, Rishi tea, rose lemonade, beer and wine also available. Monday-Saturday 10am to 2pm, Sunday 11am to 2pm. 1430 Park Avenue at the 14th St. entrance to Amelia Park. (904) 601-2118.

Thai Spice Cafe ~ Located on Sadler Road next to Jersey Mike’s. We are proud to prepare fresh authentic Thai food. Our menu features traditional Thai dishes, Curries, fried rice, appetizers, soups, salads, and other Thai specials. Come join us for lunch or dinner, or call us for carry-out orders. Happy Hour 5 - 8pm Everyday!

Buy 1 get one free House Wine! M - Th 11am - 3pm and 5 - 9:30pm; F 11am - 3pm and 5 - 10pm; Sa 12 - 9:30pm; Su closed. (904) 432-7748. thaispicecafe.com.

Townies Pizzeria ~ Townies is the “Locals’ Choice for Island Pizza”. All of our food is prepared fresh to order.

Townies uses real cheese, only the finest quality ingredients, and fresh local produce. Unlike the big pizza chains, our sauces don’t come out of a paint can. Pizza!

One Luv! 819 TJ Courson Road. (904) 277-4755. Order online at TowniesPizzeria.com or call!

Wicked Bao ~ Enjoy Asian Street Food in a charming historical building in downtown Fernandina Beach.

Small Plates, Noodle+Rice, Baos. Beer, Wine, Sake, Vietnamese Coffee. Happy Hour 4-6 Monday -Thursday & Dinner 4-9 Monday - Saturday. 232 N. 2nd St. (904) 775-5577. Please find our menu at WickedBao.com.

To read additional restaurant reviews,

PHOTO BY CHRISTY LELAIT

visit ameliaislander.com.

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“ I can’t say enough about my doctor and the staff.”

Looking for a new doctor in Nassau County?

Finding the right primary care doctor can make all the difference in your overall health.

Baptist Primary Care has convenient locations in Callahan, Yulee, Fernandina and St. Marys, Ga. Our highly rated physicians and staff put your health and safety first. Physician profiles and ratings are available at baptistprimarycare.net.

Contact us today!

New to the area? Physician retiring?

Call 202-4YOU (4968) or visit baptistjax.com/request and we’ll help match you with the right doctor.

© Baptist Health 2021

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

an inheritable

ESTATE Combining exquisite quality with sophisticated style, this home has been meticulously designed to fit all of your needs!

Features include a heated pool, sweeping Southern-style front/ back double porches, 3 car garage, elevator, oak hardwood flooring, main level owner suite, gas fireplaces and Rinnai water heaters, water softener/filtration, double laundry rooms, 8' solid core doors, summer kitchen with DCS grill, fully fenced yard, and iconic 1878 Steakhouse original front door! The grand kitchen boasts Thermador appliances with gas cooktop, marble counters, butler's pantry with wine fridge and ice maker, apron sink, abundant natural lighting, and cozy sitting room to enjoy your coffee. Bonus: Accessory conditioned storage, art room, pet grooming space, media room and much more to discover!

Zoned C3- commercial/residential use. Enjoy rocking chair afternoons, palm tree views, and strolls to the fresh market or ocean. Furniture included (with exceptions).

For more information on this exceptional property, please call Jenny Schaffer with Summer House Realty at (904) 557-4739.

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OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

706 Ocean Club Place 4 Bed | 4 Bath | 3,230 sq ft

204 S 6th Street 5 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,554 sq ft

1 Marsh Hawk Road 3 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 3,819 sq ft

$2,395,000

$850,000

$2,500,000

NOW IS THE PERFECT TIME TO SELL Inventory is low and we have buyers looking for their next dream home.

1WT TGCN GUVCVG VGCO KU CP QHȧEG HWNN QH GPGTIGVKE HQTYCTF VJKPMKPI RTQHGUUKQPCNU Our agents have an intimate knowledge of the region and an unmatched devotion to client relationships. We are proud that 95% of our business comes from referrals, OCMKPI WU C UWEEGUUHWN VQR RTQFWEKPI TGCN GUVCVG QHȧEG KP 0QTVJGCUV (NQTKFC We recognize the value and trust that our clients place in us and strive every day to exceed their expectations.

Whether you’re looking to buy, sell or rent -- we have experts that exude credibility, commitment and have the determination to help with all of your real estate transactions.

View all of our current listings in the palm of your hand. Visit your app store and search for Amelia RE to download our app.

AMELIA RE

Located at Omni Amelia Island Resort | 10 Amelia Village Circle | Amelia Island, FL 32034 (904) 277-5980 | (800) 874-0322 | AmeliaIslandRealEstate.net | aiprealestate@realestateamelia.com Danny Leeper, licensed real estate broker. ©Amelia Island Real Estate Services. All rights reserved. Amelia Island Real Estate Services is a registered trademark licensed to Omni Hotels & Resorts. An Equal Opportunity Company, Equal Housing Opportunity. If your property is listed with another real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully.

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

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95196 Amberwood Lane, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

Once you step into this fully custom-built home you will see pride of ownership everywhere!

From the outside fire pit with a lake view to the gourmet custom kitchen this 6 bedroom 4.5 bath home has tons of storage throughout. Nestled in a natural setting in the gated community of Amelia Bay, this home will not disappoint you. Priced lower per square foot than any other home in the community this home won't last long!

Terri Tennille: 904.415.1002 terri@ameliaislandre.com

by an Independent Lab

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

A Trusted Name in Real Estate Since 1984 theedwardscompany.com

2384 S FLETCHER AVE The "C" Turtle! OCEANFRONT HOME. 3,659 heated square feet, 5BR/5BA. This three level home features an outstanding floor plan with decks on each level overlooking the beautiful Atlantic Ocean.

In-ground heated oceanfront pool with spa!

PENDING $4,500,000 MLS#95694

GLENN Hancock REALTOR (904) 583-7099

DOUG Hamer REALTOR (904) 654-9828

TAYLOR Edwards BROKER (904) 753-1814

95216 MACKINAS CR

96206 MARSH LAKES DR

Immaculate executive home in Harrison Cove, a gated Summer Beach Community on the south end of Amelia Island. This 5BR/4BA home features a screened pool and spa with covered lanai and beautifully landscaped yard. Features 4BR/3BA on the main level with 5th BR/BA on 2nd floor.

PENDING $825,000 MLS#95855

Stunning Tudor Style home in Prestigious Marsh Lakes with incredible ICW views!!

Custom 4BR/3.5BA home features Anderson Windows and Doors, Gourmet Kitchen, gas cook top with quartz countertops, stainless appliances and large master bedroom with sitting area.

REDUCED $1,030,000 MLS#94413

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

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

“Ready to sell? So am I!” Jenny was awesome! She got us a contract on our house in only 9 days.

A month later, we had our closing and everything went really smooth.

Anytime I needed her, she responded!

- Jeremy C.

LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE | WORK | INVEST

JENNY SCHAFFER

FEATURED COLLECTION

2020 Nassau County Highest Top Producer

909 ATLANTIC AVE ZONED C3, ELEVATOR, 10,824 SQ FT

AMELIA ISLAND COFFEE 207 CENTRESTREET *BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

95398 SPINNAKER RD 6BD |3.5BA, OCEANVIEW

1014 S 7TH ST ZONED MU-8 | OFFICE BONUS LOFT

UNDER CONTRACT SOUTH FLETCHER AVE

J E N N Y @ S U M M E R H O U S E R E A LT Y. C O M CALL | TEXT 904.557.4739 OFFICE 904.557.3020 S U M M E R H O U S E R E A LT Y. C O M

more photos

311 ELM ST 75’ X 100’ LOT 4 BLOCKS TO DOWNTOWN!

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

Geoff Haynes (904) 468-0019 geoffhaynes@remax.net www.geoffhaynes.com

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

PAM TROXEL

pdtroxel@msn.com • (904) 556-1258 thetroxelgroup.com UNDER CONTRACT

PRICE REDUCTION! OCEANVIEW 4 BEDROOM HOME 1437 S FLETCHER AVENUE Custom-built Oceanview home sits on a rare 71’ X 250’ double lot and borders Egan’s Creek Greenway. Chef’s kitchen equipped with GE Monogram appliances, double convection ovens with warming tray, smooth top surface stove and built-in icemaker. Upstairs 4th bedroom/entertainment area with built-in refrigerator and sink could be used as a 2nd master bedroom or extended family living area. Oversized 3 car garages with room for additional garage or pool.

MLS 95134 $2,250,000

97265 Castle Ridge Drive $449,000 4BR/2BA home features beautiful wood-look and Italian tile, family room with high ceilings that looks out to screened lanai, heated salt water pool/spa and lush fenced backyard. Yard has brick paver fire pit, raised garden beds, and 200 sq ft workshop with storage. Extras include well, whole house generator, Kinetico water softening system and low HOA! MLS#95807 UNDER CONTRACT

95152 Sandpiper Loop $779,000 Greet the sunrise from this stunning oceanfront townhome in sought after Sandpiper. Light and bright end unit with expansive views of the ocean from nearly every room. Home has been beautifully finished, elegantly decorated! Spacious bedrooms, open concept living area and located close to the Ritz Carlton and bike path. MLS#95324

97020 PIRATES POINT ROAD SOLD!

Waterfront home has all the extras including a floating dock, 10k lb. boat lift, water and electric, covered platform.

Detached 18’ X 36’ garage with 11’ door for large boat or RV storage. Relax and enjoy sunrises and expansive easternly views from the wraparound covered porch.

Home and garage have metal roof, coquina stucco exterior, wood burning fireplace, vaulted wood beam ceiling, open floorplan. MLS 95374 $450,000 22 S. 8th Street Suite 2 Fernandina Beach FL (904) 321-1999

570 Patriots Way $699,000 Premier property in Isle de Mai impresses with fantastic floor plan featuring Chef’s kitchen with granite countertops, new cabinetry and marble backsplash. Owner’s bath has been beautifully remodeled with granite-topped vanity and walk-in shower. California closets and plantation shutters throughout. MLS#95246

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

Carol Woodmansee, Broker/Owner (904) 419-9080

Carol

Colleen

Estelle

When calling about the

ESTELLE CONOVER

Realtor specializing in Amelia National and Surrounding Communities (404) 432-2664 conover1@bellsouth.net

SOLD in Amelia National

properties featured in this Open House section, please mention you saw the ad in the Amelia Islander Magazine.

COLLEEN GERKE

SOLD! Oyster Bay Villa

Realtor specializing in Amelia Park and Oyster Bay homes (904) 866-1211 colleen@closewithcolleen.com

1405 Park Avenue, Suite 102, Amelia Island AmeliaFernandinaRealEstate@gmail.com

www.ameliaislander.com

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

YOU MAY HAVE JUST MISSED YOUR PERFECT HOME! Turn around and take a walk back through the pages of our OPEN HOUSE section to see some of the most desireable home listings on Amelia Island.

ISLAND ENTERTAINING

Watermelon Sangria

Watermelon Salad with Feta, Mint, and Basil

Preparation Place first five ingredients in a bowl and toss gently. Mound the salad on a large platter. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over all it, then sprinkle with a bit of sea salt. Serve immediately. Makes 5 to 6 servings.

Stay Cool with

Watermelon!

WATERMELON SANGRIA Ingredients 4 cups cubed watermelon 1 cup green grapes, halved 2 Tbs. sugar 1 bottle dry white wine 1/2 cup orange liqueur 1 lime, sliced Handful of mint leaves

TEXT AND PHOTOS BY KAREN MILLER

B

y the time August rolls around in Florida, we’re all getting a little weary of the heat. It’s almost too hot to fire up the grill, but a garden fresh, chilled watermelon will help you and your family keep your cool this summer.

There are so many things you can do with watermelon, including main dish salads, soups, and drinks.

Watermelon is ninety two percent water, and a great way to stay hydrated on hot days. The state of Florida is one of the world’s largest watermelon producers, although Cordele, Georgia claims to be the Watermelon Capital of the World. In any case, watermelon is one of the Southeast’s favorite foods, and weighing in at less than 50 calories per cup, you can eat watermelon all day, all summer long.

My favorite watermelon dish is Watermelon Salad with Feta, Mint, and Basil. The sweet-and-salty nature of this dish is divine, and it makes a great summer salad for lunch or dinner. I like to drizzle it with a balsamic glaze, which you can purchase at most grocery stores. You can also make your own by combining two cups of balsamic vinegar with a half-cup of brown sugar, then gently simmering the mixture in a pan until it’s reduced by half. After chilling the mixture, drizzle it over your watermelon salad. It’s also great with strawberries and figs!

Another favorite is Watermelon Sangria, which makes a light, refreshing, signature cocktail to serve your guests at a backyard barbecue. And Watermelon Soup makes a delicious dessert!

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WATERMELON SALAD WITH FETA, BASIL, AND MINT Ingredients 6 cups cubed seedless watermelon 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese 2 Tbs. torn mint 2 Tbs. torn basil Half of an English cucumber, thinly sliced 3 Tbs. balsamic glaze Sea salt

Preparation Place watermelon in a bowl and mash coarsely. Place in a large pitcher, and add grapes, sugar, wine, and orange liqueur, stirring well. Chill in the fridge for about 2-hours. Add lime and mint, then serve in chilled glasses. Makes about 6 to 8 servings.

WATERMELON SOUP Ingredients 4 cups cubed watermelon 1/3 cup apple juice 2 Tbs. lime juice 1/2 tsp. minced ginger 1 Tbs. honey Vanilla yogurt Preparation Place first five ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Chill in the refrigerator until serving. Serve in bowls or mugs with a dollop of vanilla yogurt. Makes 4-5 servings.

www.AmeliaIslander.com

lifestyle you desire.

TASTE the Life

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

SaltLifeFoodShack.com