Amelia Islander – December 2011

Amelia

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

DECEMBER 2011

TIMELESS TRADITIONS OF THE

Holiday eason S plus: FERNANDINA FACES • AMELIA ISLAND BOOK FESTIVAL • ISLAND ENTERTAINING

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2 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ DECEMBER 2011

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5

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3 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

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“

Amelia

ISLANDER

To everyone who helps spread the joy

Philip Kelly Deana Basile Kelly Publishers and Editors

in our community,

Tom Barrett Art Director

a heartfelt ‘Thank

Mark O’Day Advertising Sales

You’ and ‘God bless you!’

”

December on Amelia means many things to many people. You may look forward to a traditional Southern Christmas, a Hanukkah celebration, an annual open house, a tree-lighting ceremony, a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus, or some other favorite of the season. One local event that’s quickly becoming a tradition is the Amelia Island Museum of History’s Holiday Home Tour. These charming historic homes, decorated by talented local professionals, draw us into the timeless tradition of Christmas. We’ve been fortunate to have the opportunity to photograph several of them for our Island Home column. The photography by Holly Allain and Pam Bell was just beautiful. In the end, however, there’s nothing like seeing them with your own eyes, and we hope you will do just that on this year’s fabulous tour.

How else do locals celebrate the holiday season? In our cover story this month, Nan Kavanaugh outlines some of the fun and unique ways in which our community gathers to celebrate. And don’t forget groups like Joy to the Children, Nassau County Volunteer Center’s Adopt-a-Family program, Barnabas Center, and others. We try to spotlight those volunteer efforts throughout the year, but this is the time of year when much of those efforts is being felt. Through these groups, community members help spread the joy of Christmas—and not just in December. They remind us not to get too bogged down with shopping lists and blinking lights, and to keep our focus on spreading the joy.

And there’s much more in this issue: a Fernandina Faces column on retiring hospital president Jim Mayo and his many accomplishments; a group of local oenophiles who believe that 2012 is a great year to open up a world-renowned bottle of wine; some tips on choosing that special champagne—and when to drink it—from Bob Montgomery at Amelia Liquors; the beautiful Queen Anne-style home of Ann and Bill Kavanaugh, all dressed up for the holidays, in our Island Home column; and more.

Also this month, we are so happy to include a special section on the Amelia Island Book Festival’s 2012 season. Each year, the number of exciting events and talented authors grows, and we hope that this section will serve as a guide to help you celebrate and explore the written word at the festival in February.

As 2011 winds down, we are reminded how blessed we are to have four healthy and happy children and to live in such a wonderful community. To everyone who helps spread the joy in our community, a heartfelt “Thank You” and “God bless you!” We wish you all Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy New Year!

See you around the island!

4 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

Contributing Writers Dickie Anderson, Jan Davis, Jim Ewing, Nan Kavanaugh, Karen Miller, Betty Morrell, Able Rae, Peggy Stanton, Teresa Sopp, Julie Simmons Contributing Photographers Holly Allain, Pam Bell, Elizabeth Wilkes, David Burghardt, Lynne Taylor, Katrin Bell, Bart Clark, William Raser

C O N TA C T U S Sweetpea Media, Inc. P.O. Box 16624 Fernandina Beach, Fl 32035 904-277-8012 Fax 904-277-8076 islander@ameliaislander.com www.ameliaislander.com Amelia Islander Magazine is published monthly (11 times a year - January and February is a combined issue.) All editorial contents including maps and photographs are Copyrighted 2011 Sweetpea Media, Inc. Reproduction of any material contained herein in any manner, in whole or in part, is prohibited without the express written consent of the publisher. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other artwork cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. No responsibility is assumed for unsolicited materials. The cover and the magazine’s contents are fully protected and may not be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The Amelia Islander is distributed free of charge on and around Amelia Island. Back issues may be purchased from the publisher for $2.00 each plus postage.

www.AmeliaIslander.com

features

DECEMBER 2011 9 Cover Story TIMELESS HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

Read about all the fun ways in which our community gathers to celebrate the spirit of Christmas and Hanukkah this December.

25 Fernandina Faces Jim Mayo has been both hospital chaplain and hospital president, and his tenure at Baptist Nassau has witnessed the exciting transformation of our community hospital.

29 Amelia Island Book Festival Special Section With an eclectic program and roster of authors, you won’t want to miss the 2012 festival in February. This eight-page special section includes everything you need to know.

41 The Mayan & Lafite March What would you do if you thought the end of the world was near? One local group of oenophiles is happy to weigh in on the question.

60 Island Entertaining Saving that bottle of Champagne for New Year’s Eve? Bob Montgomery of Amelia Liquors explains the basics of bubbly and why you should keep a bottle chilled and on hand for nearly any occasion.

Amelia

ISLANDER DECEMBER 2011 • VOLUME 24 • NUMBER 11

5 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

inside

DECEMBER 2011 16

ABOUT THE COVER

23

47

16

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

18

Galleries & Antiques Amelia’s art galleries & antique stores

20

In the Neighborhoodd Profiles of area businesses and organizations

23

Beach Combingg Great shopping on Amelia Island

26

Maps of the Island and downtown, with telephone numbers

27

Tide Table Tides at the Amelia River

39

Around Town n What’s happening around Amelia Island

42

Snapshots Islanders out and about

47

Island Home The beautiful Queen Anne-style home of Ann and Bill Kavanaugh showcased antique charm and creative floral design on last year’s Holiday Home Tour.

50

Eating Scene From traditional Asian offerings to curries, noodle dishes, and more, Jade’s Bistro has something for everyone.

55

Open House Premium real estate offerings on and around Amelia Island

A Christmas angel is among the beautiful holiday decorations on a traditional tree decorated by the Designing Women, Dolores Lord and Donna Haddock, for the Holiday Home Tour. Photo by Pam Bell Photography.

Amelia

ISLANDER DECEMBER 2011 • VOLUME 24 • NUMBER 11

6 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

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In retirement, no decision is bigger than how you want to live the rest of your life. At Osprey Village on Amelia Island, FL, we have a way for people to live a longer, happier and healthier life. So imagine enjoying an enhanced lifestyle without house and lawn upkeep, no bill paying and in a gated community with a host of services providing you with security, wellness, healthcare should you need it, and more fun.

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8 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

Fin e J ewelry

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TIMELESS TRADITIONS OF THE

Holiday eason S

BY NAN KAVANAUGH

T

he holiday season always seems to take us back in time. Memories surface with unusual clarity in the month of December, triggered by traditions which resonate with an authenticity that often seems to get lost in today’s fast-paced world.

Some of the traditions we honor, such as decorating an evergreen tree or lighting candles, are thousands of years old, while others, such as Santa Claus in his red coat or the sharing of Hanukkah gifts, are newer on the timeline of holiday celebrations.

Regardless of the evolution of our holiday traditions, a few characteristics of the season are timeless: the bonds of kinship and the spirit of charity warm this cold season with their light. These essential elements of the holidays shine brightest in a small town, and, on Amelia Island, opportunities to honor community and celebrate the old-fashioned way abound.

A Season for Giving Regardless of your faith, charity is a foundation of the holiday season, and during this time it seems that it is needed more than ever. In a small community like ours, charitable organizations make a huge impact, not just for those in need, but also as a means to connect with people. This month there are a number of opportunities to support not-forprofit organizations while indulging in the festivities. To kick off the month on December 1, Friends of Fernandina Beach Library will be holding their annual Holiday Victorian Tea and Brunch at Elizabeth Point Lodge, where a reading of Charles Dickens classic story, A Christmas Carol,l will take you back to another era. For more information, call (904) 277-7365. Tickets are on sale at the Fernandina Beach Library.

In keeping with that time in history, the fifth annual Holiday Home Tour will give people a chance not only to help support one of our cultural strongholds, the Amelia Island Museum of History, but also to enjoy the warm hospitality of islanders that have turned historic preservation into daily life. A trolley will bring you to the threshold of the grand homes of the historic district, dressed in their holiday finest, where a museum docent will meet you at the door to welcome you in for a guided tour.

If you are looking for a reason to bundle up in your holiday finest for a night on the town, while also doing your part to help the hungry, the Amelia Community Theatre 9 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

PHOTO BY JAN JOHANNES

has just the event. The “ACT Against Hunger” holiday food drive begins on December 1 with the opening night of the play A Christmas Story, which runs until December 17. As the theater company entertains the community with this charming Christmas play, they will also be helping to provide food for local families in need. Patrons are asked to bring to the show their non-perishable food items, which will be collected and donated to the Barnabas food pantry.

A Christmas Storyy is a show about a child’s longing for that one elusive gift, and eventually learning the limitations of material gifts. “It is a family show,” says Managing Director Linda McClane, “and since this is the time of year when people tend to think more about giving, we thought it would be a great opportunity to introduce people to Barnabas and make the opportunity to give more readily available.”

Toni D’Amico, director of the show, explains why this event is so important: “We understand what other organizations are going through at this time, and we thought this would be a good way to show to our community that we have the word ‘community’ in our name for a reason.” For ticket information, call the box office at (904) 261-6749.

PHOTO BY JAN JOHANNES

The act of sharing food, whether as a donation or enjoying a home-cooked meal with loved ones, is a common unifying ritual of all cultures during the holiday season. From tamales in Mexico to pavlova in Australia, Jollof rice in Africa or latkes in Eastern Europe, homemade dishes are a quintessential part of rejoicing. In this day and age, in order to deal with all of the demands on our time, we often purchase pre-made goodies, but the act of cooking with friends and family is just as important to building memories as enjoying the end result.

To learn some of these culinary traditions from master chefs, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island’s Salt Cooking School is offering a class on Holiday Classics. The class is designed to create a contemporary spin on traditional holiday dishes. You could use this new knowledge to whip up a dish to give as a gift to warm the spirit of a neighbor or friend. The class is in session December 15 and 16. For reservations, call (904) 277-1100.

Foodstuffs may be a deliciously fleeting present, quickly devoured, but a cookbook is a gift that keeps on giving. Micah’s Place, an organization dedicated to helping victims of domestic violence in Nassau County, will hold a pre-holiday sale of their cookbook, A Savory Place Cookbook, with one hundred percent of the proceeds going to support the organization.

“Purchasing our cookbook is such a nice, easy way to be in the spirit of the season and help Micah’s Place raise muchneeded funds for our women and children,” says Kelly Monti, project coordinator of Micah’s Place. “It also makes a wonderful keepsake for those visiting loved ones over the holiday season.”

The book holds 170 tried-and-true recipes that embody the cuisine of Southern island living. It also makes a lovely coffee

PHOTO BY PAM BELL PHOTOGRAPHY

Breaking Bread

10 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Savannah Grand

a spectacular assisted living community

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11 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

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table book, with its gorgeous photographs of Amelia Island by local photographer Max Hertweck. On December 3, members of this fantastic organization will dish out free samples from the book at Eileen’s Arts & Antiques on Centre Street. The book is also available at Marche Burette at The Shops of Amelia Island Plantation, The Plantation Shop at Palmetto Walk, Magna’s Salon, Amelia Hotel at the Beach, First Federal Bank of Florida, and the Purple Dove Resale Center. For more information call (904) 491-6364, ext.102.

PHOT BY LYNNE TAYLOR PHOTO BY JAN JOHANNES

PHOTO BY PAM BELL PHOTOGRAPHY

Exchanging of Gifts Both Christian and Jewish holiday celebrations include the giving of gifts as a tradition. The Jewish calendar is a lunar calendar, and this year Hanukkah is celebrated from December 20 to 28. With the lighting of the menorah each night, the holiday celebrates the strength of the people of Judea and the victory of the Maccabee Tribe. The Jewish Community of Amelia Island is honoring the holiday with a potluck dinner featuring traditional foods, such as latkes. The members of the JCAI are also working with Nassau County Volunteer Center to provide gifts to people in our community who are in need. If you would like to attend the celebration and learn more about the Jewish community on Amelia Island, or contribute gifts to Nassau County Volunteer Center through the JCAI, contact Debbie Price at (904) 310-6060.

There was a time—before on-line shopping and box stores —when people selected unique gifts from local vendors, whom they knew not only as storekeepers, but also as friends. Shopping locally wasn’t a new trend; it used to be a way of life. Fortunately, today, people are rediscovering the benefits of patronizing their local shops. Lindy Kavanaugh, jewelry designer and owner of Lindy’s, holds the tradition of local merchant to a standard that has been cherished since the beginning of trade.

“At a small business, everything is handpicked by the owner with their customers in mind” says Lindy. “Unlike superstores, we know our customers.” Sometimes the merchants even know the person for whom the customer is shopping, and can guide them if needed. Amelia Island is filled with a multitude of wonderful and convenient shops, where local owners cherish the spirit of the holidays.

Children traditionally offer their own do-it-yourself-gifts, and the non-for-profit organization, the Amelia Arts Academy, has devised a fun way to help them. Their Winter Wonderland Holiday Workshop for kids will take place December 20 through December 22 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Nothing is more sentimental than a gift made from the heart, and the Amelia Arts Academy will have everything needed to help kids make winter-themed crafts and holiday gifts.

“The holidays are a time for celebrating relationships,” says Theresa Duncan, Arts Academy executive assistant. “Giving children the opportunity to collaborate creatively in the process of giving gifts to loved ones is a great way to help reinforce those relationships.” To reserve a spot, call (904) 277-1225.

12 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

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(904) 321-0444 13 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

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14 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

PHOTO BY PAM BELL PHOTOGRAPHY

Reindeer made their debut in the Christmas tradition in the 1823 poem, “T’was the Night Before Christmas” by Clement Clark Moore. While reindeer-drawn carriages are hard to find on Amelia Island, horse-drawn carriages abound. On Christmas Eve, the Omni Amelia Island Plantation will offer horse drawn carriage rides under oak canopies twinkling with holiday lights. “Whether couples want to enjoy a romantic ride for two or the whole family wants to create memories, singing carols along the way, our horse and carriage rides offer guests of all ages a festive and unique holiday activity,” says Katie Lane, marketing coordinator of the Omni Amelia Island Plantation.

Parades are a constant in any small town celebration, and the City of Fernandina Beach is hosting its annual Holiday Parade of Paws on December 3, and the Fernandina Beach Lighted Land Parade on December 10. For more information, call (904) 206-0756.

You may not spot Santa Claus on Christmas Eve, given his busy schedule, but you can catch him and his lovely wife on the first three Saturdays in December at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. Each Saturday, Santa and Mrs. Claus will hold a Storybook Tea where children will share an extraordinary spread of sweets, pastries, and sandwiches during a formal tea and special story time with the famous couple.

If you want to sweat out a little holiday angst, join in the fun at the Holiday Dodge Ball Tournament, Sunday December 18 at the Peck Center. Or if you have had one too many holiday sweets, don’t forget the Amelia Island Runners 2011 Reindeer Half Marathon and kids’ run, where there will be family activities for all ages on Saturday, December 3 at Main Beach.

After Santa’s gifts have been torn open and the Hanukkah candles have been snuffed out, it’s time for the final celebration of the year, New Year’s Eve. Whether you dance the night away at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island’s Black and White Masquerade Ball, or you bang pots and pans at home as you watch the ball drop in Times Square on television, the final day of the year is one of both reflection and foresight.

In his poem “Little Gidding” from The Four Quartets, T.S. Eliot writes: “For last year’s words belong to last year’s language, And next year’s words await another voice, And to make an end is to make a beginning.” Every December, we throw away our calendars, think back on the months past, and plan for a new year. The last year of the month is a time of jubilation, and, on Amelia Island, we have more to celebrate than fabulous weather. There is something timeless about a small town on a charming island where it is easy to share the happenings of daily life with neighbors and friends, and our impact as individual citizens is felt more so than in big cities.

The spirit of the holiday embodies island life, and we should resolve to honor its light year round.

PHOTO BY PETER BROOMELL

Santa and his Reindeer

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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15 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

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WIN A 2012 CHRYSLER 200 CONVERTIBLE IN THE SAINT MICHAEL ACADEMY CAR RAFFLE

AMELIA ISLAND BLUES FESTIVAL PRESENTS CHECK TO BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER NASSAU The Amelia Island Blues Festival, fresh off their impressive inaugural event, presented a check for $5,000 to Baptist Medical Center Nassau, the designated beneficiary of the Amelia Island Blues Festival. “It is wonderful that we can have a community event where we can enjoy such a high level of musical talent, while also enjoying our great beach resource, and still benefit our local hospital, Baptist Medical Center Nassau,” said Jeff Malone, president of the AIBF board. Present at the presentation of the check to outgoing Baptist Nassau President Jim Mayo were Amelia Island Blues Festival committee members Fernandina Beach Police Chief Jim Hurley, incoming Baptist Nassau President Stephen Lee, Detective Marty Scott, Baptist Nassau Auxiliary Corps President Stephanie Manwell, Tom Keenan, Mike Zaffaroni, Jeff Malone, Susan Hurley, and Han Ramakers. The festival also supports the “Blues in School” program. After its successful first year, the Amelia Island Blues Festival is adding a third day of music to next year’s festival, which is scheduled for September 14-16, 2012 at Fernandina Beach’s Main Beach.

Buy one of only 1,000 tickets in the St. Michael Academy car raffle and you could drive away in a brand new 2012 Chrysler 200 convertible! The 2012 Chrysler 200 is offered in conjunction with Rick Keffer Chrysler Dodge Jeep.

The 2012 Chrysler 200 Convertible has a 3.6 liter VG6 24-valve engine, air conditioning, bucket seats, power top and windows, power seat adjustments, a media center, and much more. The Chrysler 200 gets an estimated 18 city/29 highway MPG. The winner may also choose a 2012 Chrysler 200 4-door sedan or a 2012 Jeep Wrangler. Tickets are $50.00 each and are available at St. Michael Academy, 228 N. Fourth St. in downtown Fernandina Beach, as well as at Rick Keffer Chrysler Dodge Jeep and Amelia Liquors. Proceeds benefit St. Michael Academy. The winner will be chosen when all 1,000 tickets are sold. The winner is responsible for Florida sales tax, tag and title fees. For more information, call the St. Michael Academy office at (904) 321-2102.

CREED HOSTING WORLD AIDS DAY BANQUET On December 10, 2011, from 6 to 9 p.m., The Coalition for the Reduction/ Elimination of Ethnic Disparities in Health (CREED) is hosting its fourth annual World AIDS Day Banquet at St Peters Episcopal Church, at 801 Atlantic Ave. The keynote speaker is Mr. Rod L. Brown of the Florida Department of Health, with a special guest choir. CREED is a 501c (3) community-based organization whose mission is to raise awareness of risk factors for chronic and infectious diseases, increase access to health screening and diagnostic services, and promote lifestyle changes that may reduce the risks for these diseases.

In Nassau County, CREED offers health educational seminars and sponsors an annual youth program to discuss issues specific to teenagers. This year, six young winners of an essay contest were awarded four laptop computers and two e-readers. At a back-to-school health event – presented in partnership with Baptist Medical Center Nassau, the Nassau County Health Department, faith-based organizations, Wal-Mart Vision Center, Home Depot, Staples, and other local businesses – 90 students received free school physicals and over 250 bags of school supplies were distributed. The tickets are $30.00 per person or $240.00 for a table of eight. All proceeds benefit CREED’s programs. For more information, contact Jennett WilsonBaker at (904) 556-3363 or Jennett_Baker@peoplepc.com.

16 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Pin Point Amelia Things to see, do, and experience on Amelia Island.

Amelia Angler OutďŹ tters 14 Flavors 55 Toppings Unlimited Creations Open nightly until 10 p.m.

Friday and Saturday nights until 11 p.m.

306 Centre Street, Fernandina Beach, FL

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

Captain Terry Lacoss Director Since 1978

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

904-322-9739 stayncountryranch@yahoo.com

SEGWAYS Beeac B Bea ach & ach OffOffOf f-rroooad aadd Tra railils ils FFoortt Clilinc ncch Sttat S ate PPaarkk Forrtt Georg Fo eorg eo rge Isla Is land nd Sta tattee Par tate ark

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

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

s WWW %CO-OTION4OURS COM

YOGA & FITNESS STUDIO

415-YOGA (9642) www.yyoga.com Mention ad for First Class FREE!

Guided Tours and Rentals

Sign up now for our January Keys Kayak Trip.

904-251-0016 KayakAmelia.com â&#x20AC;&#x153;You deserve a good paddling!â&#x20AC;?

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

17 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ DECEMBER EMBE MBER 2011

w www.AmeliaIslander.com ww AmeliaIslander.com ww.

AMELIA ISLAND ANTIQUES 5210 First Coast Hwy • 321-1314

GALLERIES

a n t& iques

AMELIA SANJON GALLERY 218A Ash St. • 557-1195 BLUE DOOR ARTISTS 205 1⁄2 Centre St. • 556-1119

BLUE DOOR ARTISTS

CASABLANCA 2188 Sadler Road • 415-1540 D’AGNESE CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY 205 1/2 Centre St. • 261-6044 or 556-2014 EILEEN’S ART & ANTIQUES CENTRE 702 Centre St. • 277-2717 FIRST COAST COMMUNITY BANK GALLERY 1750 South 14th St., 2nd floor • 277-5290 FRENCH MARKET ANTIQUES 203 Centre Street • 491-0707 GALLERY C 218-B Ash Street • 583-4676

O

riginal artwork is a gift that will be enjoyed and appreciated for years to come. At Blue Door Artists, a dynamic collective gallery / studio in downtown Fernandina Beach, the holiday season is a special time of year.

“The gallery has been open for seven years,” explains artist Wyanne Thomspon.

“Our anniversary coincides with the holiday season, and so we present our annual Anniversary Show, a fun holidaythemed event and show that gives us an opportunity to thank the public for supporting us throughout the year.” The ten resident artists are Casey Matthews, Elizabeth Dion, Suzanne Batchelor, Wyanne Thompson, Candace Fasano, Georganna Mullis, Sharon Badenoch, Lynette Holmes, Theresa Daily, and Carol Sprovtsoff, and each artist displays new works for the show.

The Anniversary Show opens on December 10, with an opening reception from 5:00 p.m. 8:30 p.m., which coincides with the December 2nd Saturday Artwalk in downtown

Fernandina Beach. The public is welcome to enjoy the reception and a special scavenger hunt, with holiday cookies and punch. Winners of the scavenger hunt will be placed in a random drawing to win a $100 gift certificate redeemable with any of the Blue Door Artists. The show presents a wide array of items, including oil, acrylic, and watercolor paintings, handmade artisan jewelry, scarves, purses, and other textiles, as well as handmade art cards and limited edition prints. There are items in every price range, starting at $6, affordable for any holiday budget.

“Everything is made by local artists, so it is a great way to supporting the local economy, and there are few gifts more meaningful than a piece of artwork selected especially for you,” says weaver Lynette Holmes. The Blue Door Artists Anniversary Show will be on display through the month of December. For more information, visit the Blue Door Artists at 205 ½ Centre Street or call (904) 556-1195.

18 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

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

www.AmeliaIslander.com

galleries & antiques

[ ] blue

Art Workshops

by Nationally Recognized Artists

door artists

March

Charles Reid - Watercolor Workshop

gallery & working studios

April

Call 904-491-8040 to register.

n o J an

ROWESVILLE COTTAGES ON SADLER (Next to Amelia’s Attic)

Casablanca

Great New Shipment!

Picasso and Me” for Tea • 3-5pm

“

10am-5pm

904-415-1540

Wed-Sat

Amelia

S

100’s of framed and unframed prints Member of Professional Picture Framers Association

F I N E A RT

Awards For All Occasions

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

Holiday Wishes

& Special p Thanks

225-2195 Corner of A1A & Hwy 17 • Yulee

A1A

N

18 North 2nd Street

to all our friends and patrons!

(904) 261-8276 www.MaurerFineArt.com

FRAMERY & TROPHY STORE

COMPLETE CUSTOM FRAMING AT AFFORDABLE PRICES Custom Framing since 1970

Gallery

2188 Sadler Road • Fernandina Beach

Maurer Fine A Art

MEAD’S

HWY 17

205 1/2 centre street downtown fernandina beach 904.556.7783 www.bluedoorartists.com

Dee Beard Dean - Oil Plein Air Workshop Susan Olgivie - Pastel Plein Air Workshop

Voted “Best of the Best Gallery” 2011 A co-op of 50 local artists show their paintings, pottery, jewelry, glass art, fiber art and more in our newly renovated gallery.

For more information and a complete list of events and art classes in our New Art Education Center, visit www.islandart.org or call 904-261-7020.

G

ENERAL

Y.B. Green’s STORE

Earth Friendly Gifts Unique products that are good for you AND good for the planet FREE holiday gift bag with purchase of $30 or more gift certi.cates available

5210 First Coast Highway (Between Harris Teeter & Amelia Island Plantation)

321-1314

hours mon.- sat. 10 - 5; sun. 1- 5 19 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

261-5702 www.AmeliaIslander.com

4 N.2nd St

(across from the Palace)

in the neighborhood

W

PHOTOS BY WILLIAM RASER

Home n’ Bed

“W

e connect well with all types of people, and that is the heart of our business,” say Gary and Sharon Hatchell, owners of Nassau Diamond Fine Jewelry. “We live on the island, and our customers are our neighbors, friends, and the folks we encounter at the grocery store. We are committed to providing them with the best service we can.”

The Hatchells love it when they hear customers say, “What a fun store!” They enjoy chatting with people and getting to know them, and trying to fill their store with the items they love. “We added San Francisco Music Box Company’s wide selection of musical water globes—they make fabulous gifts,” says Sharon. Shoppers are also smiling about the Dobbs-Boson and Bella Etoile sterling silver lines.

The gentlemen shoppers asked for hardy, durable watches, and the Luminox Watch, designed for the U.S. Navy Seals, was introduced.

“One thing that customers may not know is that we also design custom pieces, and we service what we sell,” explains Gary. The two enjoy the interactive process of translating a customer’s idea into a beautiful piece.

At the end of the day, the Hatchells aim to serve. “Our name is on the door,” says Gary. “We make sure we have done everything possible to make our customers transactions happy, fair, and positive.” Nassau Diamond Fine Jewelry, 1743 S. 8th Street, across from Compass Bank, (904) 277-1993, is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.

ith many years of experience in finding just the right products and accessories for Amelia Island residents, Wilson and Terri Tennille are not new to retail on Amelia Island.

Wilson built and owns Palmetto Walk Shopping Village and has owned many stores, including Home n Bed, which opened a year ago October.

“Several years ago we owned Home Imports, but we closed the store to allow another retailer space,” explains Terri. Yet soon they perceived a need for a specialty shop that offers superior bedding and home goods. “So we started again, specializing in quality goods for homes – particularly island-style homes and condos.” They take particular pride in offering a wide-range of pricing on bedding, rugs, quilts, and pillows. “Our customers find what we have to offer suits their Amelia home, and they can find these styles year-round.” Home n Bed offers signature lines, such as Pine Cone Hill bedding, Dash & Albert rugs, and C&F Pillows.

Terri and Wilson say they enjoy Amelia Island retail because of the customers. “We’ve watched our customers have children and grandchildren. They have become friends, whom we look forward to seeing year after year.”

This December, visit Palmetto Walk Shopping Village on the weekends and enjoy carolers and even visits from Santa.

Home n’ Bed is located at 4924 First Coast Highway, and hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call (904) 261-0270.

Nassau Diamond Fine Jewelry

20 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

SHOPPING VILLAGE

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

saketini’s / american bistro cuisine alfresco dining / private dining 4924 ½rst coast hwy 904.310.6620 www.barzin-bistro-winebar.com palmetto walk shopping village

Clothing - Jewelry - Accessories Shoes - Handbags - Gifts

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

904.261.0940

904.310.9351 Mon-Sat 10-5 • Sun 11-5

w Ne

t en m p i Sh

A carefully gathered collection of English & French antiques, slipcovered and upholstered furniture, home accessories, gifts, stationery, gourmet foods, fashion accessories, and outdoor furniture.

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

321-2430

21 AMELIA

An island tradition for over 30 years.

(904) 261-2030 www.theplantationshop.com ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011 www.AmeliaIslander.com

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

local artisan cheeses & charcuterie

PALMETTO WALK

select wines / craft beers

‘Tis the Season to Celebrate the Holidays ‘Tis the Season.

Celebrate the Holidays.

Santa’s Workshop Every Friday, Saturday & Sunday in December, 2-4pm • Holiday craft fun for the whole family in the Recreation Activity Center next to the Nature Center. $5-$15 per craft.

• Not available on Christmas Day

Watercolor and Drawing Workshop 2 or 3 days, Thursday - Saturday in December, 9am-12pm • Tailored to meet individual skills • Taught by Joann Speas • 904-432-1750 more information

Light Up A Life Proceeds to benefit Take Stock in Children® Dec. 1st, 6-8pm, Conference Center, $75 per person • Fine wine, dinner buffet and silent auction • Purchase by cash or check at: Images Salon First Federal Bank-Fernandina and Yulee Fernandina Beach NewsLeader The Plantation Shop at Palmetto Walk Resort to Home-The Shops at Omni AIP • Purchase by credit card at: takestocknassau.org and click on Our Events

Gourmet Tasting, Marché Burette Dec. 3rd & 17th, 2-4pm, complimentary

Wine Tasting, Marché Burette Dec 10th, 12-2pm, complimentary

Give the gift of golf instruction from North Florida’s top-ranked instructor.

Holiday Special

3 lessons + 3 “Perfect Practice” sessions Only $399 (30% savings) OFFER EXPIRES 12/24/2011

~ INSTRUCTIONAL FEATURES ~ • Video Swing Analysis from 3 angles • Exclusive Hot Lines technology provides feedback • Learn long game and short game fundamentals • Beginners welcome • Take home DVD

ANNE CAIN CAIN, LPGA, G.S.E.B. www.annecaingolf.com 904-321-5464 The Golf Club of Amelia Island

New Marissa Baratelli for the

Holidays

Cooking Demonstration, Marché Burette Dec 23rd & 24th, 10am-12pm, complimentary

Horse Drawn Carriage Rides, The Shops Dec 24th 2-5pm, complimentary

Call today to book your holiday party!

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

Monday - Saturday 10:00 - 5:30 Located at Omni Resorts and Hotels, Amelia Island Plantation 6800 First Coast Highway., Amelia Island, FL 32034 904-261-6161 • omniameliaislandplantation.com 22 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

All Major Credit Cards

(904) 491-4878 www.AmeliaIslander.com

beach combing

All About Accessories From hats to pashminas, purses to pendants… for fabulous accessories, like this scarf in shades of blue, faux leather wallet, and elephant key chain (all just $10 each) shop Bijoux Amelia, 317A Centre Street in downtown Fernandina Beach, (904) 310-6086.

Décor and More

Puppy Love Redbones Dog Bakery and Boutique, 809 South 8th Street, (904) 321-0020, has freshly baked healthy doggie treats, as well as a variety of accessories for both dog and dog lover, like this Dog Lovers’ Pillow ($44), available in a variety of patterns.

Wilson’s, in the Palmetto Walk Shopping Village, (904) 432-8319, carries hand-blown glassware, pottery, table settings, and much more, like this decorative crab plate ($80).

Girls Love Gauzeway Combining fashion and comfort, the Lizzie top in buttercup ($48) and the Angela pants in slate ($68) are both by The Gauzeway, at 313 Centre Street, (904) 261-0331.

23 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

PlaE Today!

For years our guests have only been able to PLaE for dinner.

Now you can PLaE for lunch, too!

Repairs • Appraisals GIA Graduate • Gemologist

Register to WIN a $1,000 GIFT CERTIFICATE Drawing on December 23 NO PURCHASE NECESSARY!

Since 1957

(904) 277-4910

Enjoy a “True Southern Plantation Lunch” Tuesday – Saturday 11:30 – 2:30

Sadler Crossing • 1472 Sadler Road (next to Starbucks)

(904) 277-2132

Mon. - Fri. 9am - 6pm • Sat. 10am - 4pm www.crawfordjewelers.net

80 AMELIA VILLAGE CIRCLE • AMELIA ISLAND, FL

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

LOSE WEIGHT

961687 Gateway Blvd.

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

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

W O M E N

J E W E L R Y

D E S I G N E R

H A N D B A G S S AV V Y

S AV V Y

Pssst... Santa Shops at FIFI’s and So Should You! Celebrating 20+ Years serving Amelia Island

BEST OF THE BEST Consignment Shop

GUCCI BAGS? WE’VE GOT THEM! Plus many more Designer Handbags

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

ResaleRocks

A Proud Member of

S H O P P I N G

S H O P P I N G

and 2010’s

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

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

904-491-1515 www.AmeliaAudiology.com

P E T I T E

A C C E S S O R I E S

M I S S Y

S H O E S

24 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

fernandina faces

Jim Mayo

BY JAN DAVIS • PHOTO BY KATRIN BELL

J

im Mayo is ready for his “third act.” He will retire as hospital president of Baptist Medical Center-Nassau at the end of this year and is waiting to see what lies ahead for him. He is not the typical retiree. This popular, well-respected hospital executive has plenty of energy left to tackle the many offers that will undoubtedly be presented to him.

An Alabama boy, he began his working life as a minister in the Church of Christ. An experience counseling a parishioner, however, set his life in a new direction. While trying to give aid and counsel to a woman who refused to acknowledge that her husband was dying, Jim felt inspired to get training as a hospital chaplain.

Thirty-seven years later, upon his retirement, the Jim Mayo Chaplaincy Endowment is being set up to help support Baptist Nassau’s Clinical Pastoral Education program, which focuses on grief support, crisis intervention, and religious diversity.

Through that early experience, Jim fell in love with hospitals and decided to study for an advanced degree in Hospital and Health Administration. The course he wanted, however, had already begun for that school term, and it would be ten months before he could begin his studies. Rather than waste time, Jim was mentored by the hospital administrator in Gadsden, Alabama, who gave him a very practical ten-month “clerkship,” which would prove invaluable to him later.

After earning his degree, Jim completed his residency in Gastonia, N.C. He then returned to Gadsden, where he stayed for 12 years, being promoted along the way. When the hospital was sold to a “for-profit” company, Jim resigned. He reached out to his long-time friend, Hugh Greene, then administrator of Baptist Medical Center in Jacksonville and now CEO of Baptist Health. Hugh told him that Baptist was in negotiation to buy the small hospital in Fernandina Beach and suggested that he check it out. He came here in April of 1994 and by the time the Nassau County Commissioners had completed the sale of the old hospital to Baptist, Jim Mayo was already on the job.

Those early years were not easy, however. The hospital had been built in 1978, and the physical plant was in a state of disrepair. “When it rained, we had to put out buckets to catch the water!” remembers Jim. “We began immediately to remodel and expand the facility. We developed a three-phase goal having to do with expanding the out-patient services, surgery, obstetrics, and emergency room.”

That was just the beginning. The latest addition—a new wing for patient care—is the one that makes him most proud.

“It is the latest and greatest in hospital design,” he says.

Jim has no plans to leave Amelia Island. He met his wife, Nancy, when she was giving him a haircut at her salon, Changes. Jim often helps Nancy as “janitor and receptionist,” he explains. His son, David, is in Cumming, Georgia, and Nancy’s daughter, Heather, is here on the island.

Does he walk out of the door on December 30 with all his goals completed? “It’s a job that is never finished,” he explains.

Reflecting on his retirement, he says: “Although there may not be another 30, I’d like to find something as satisfying as my work here has been. I just don’t know what’s out there yet.” Jim Mayo’s third act may just surprise us all. His extensive skills and desire to continue to serve will undoubtedly continue to benefit our community. Stay tuned!

For more information on contributing to the Jim Mayo Endowment Fund, contact Trish Dooley, 261-3181 or trishdooley@comcast.net.

25 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

26 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

DECEMBER 2011 TIDES AT THE AMELIA RIVER Day

Low

1 THU 7:40 AM 8:19 PM 2 FRI 8:41 AM 9:11 PM 3 SAT 9:41 AM 10:01 PM 4 SUN 10:38 AM 10:48 PM 5 MON 11:30 AM 11:35 PM 6 TUE 7 WED 8 THU 9 FRI 10 SAT 11 SUN 12 MON 13 TUE

12:20 PM 12:20 AM 1:07 PM 1:05 AM 1:51 PM 1:47 AM 2:32 PM 2:28 AM 3:11 PM 3:07 AM 3:48 PM 3:46 AM 4:25 PM 4:25 AM 5:04 PM

Last Quarter New Moon First Quarter Full Moon

High

Day

Low

High

Day

Low

High

1:21 AM 1:49 PM

14 WED

5:07 AM 5:46 PM 5:54 AM 6:31 PM

11:24 AM 11:47 PM 12:08 PM

27 TUE

4:36 AM 5:15 PM 5:24 AM 6:00 PM

10:59 AM 11:14 PM 11:43 AM

12:35 AM 12:55 PM

29 THU

1:26 AM 1:46 PM

30 FRI

2:24 AM 2:43 PM

31 SAT

15 THU 2:13 AM 2:39 PM 3:07 AM 3:31 PM 4:02 AM 4:24 PM 4:56 AM 5:15 PM 5:46 AM 6:05 PM 6:34 AM 6:52 PM 7:18 AM 7:36 PM 8:01 AM 8:18 PM 8:43 AM 9:00 PM 9:23 AM 9:41 PM 10:03 AM 10:22 PM 10:43 AM 11:03 PM

16 FRI 6:48 AM 7:22 PM 17 SAT 7:50 AM 8:18 PM 18 SUN 8:55 AM 9:16 PM 19 MON 10:01 AM 10:16 PM 20 TUE 11:05 AM 11:15 PM 21 WED 22 THU 23 FRI 24 SAT 25 SUN 26 MON

12:07 PM 12:14 AM 1:06 PM 1:11 AM 2:02 PM 2:06 AM 2:54 PM 2:58 AM 3:43 PM 3:48 AM 4:30 PM

28 WED

6:13 AM 6:46 PM 7:05 AM 7:34 PM 8:01 AM 8:25 PM

12:01 AM 12:26 PM 12:47 AM 1:08 PM 1:33 AM 1:52 PM

3:28 AM 3:46 PM 4:35 AM 4:52 PM 5:40 AM 5:56 PM 6:42 AM 6:56 PM 7:39 AM 7:52 PM 8:32 AM 8:45 PM 9:23 AM 9:37 PM 10:13 AM 10:27 PM

On the first of the month, the sun rises at 7:05 a.m. EST and sets at 524 p.m. EST. On the last day of the month, the sun rises at 7:22 a.m. EST and sets at 5:35 p.m. EST. Daylight hours decrease an average of 1.4 minutes per day.

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

AMELIA RENTAL

DECEMBER Weather Avg. High 65 degrees Avg. Low 48 degrees Avg. Precip 2.73 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.

& Management Services 5299 S. Fletcher Avenue

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

Sometimes it may be as simple as just holding hands.

ALL PRO

From couples dance classes to cooking lessons, sometimes maintaining a healthy marriage can be over-thought.

AUTOMOTIVE “Everything Automotive”

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

Complete Foreign & Domestic Repairs Classics, Customs & Restorations All Repairs Guaranteed Platinum Interstate Battery Dealer Valet Service Available

summerbeach.com • ..

1852 SADLER ROAD Across from the Post Office o c e a n f r o n t va c at i o n s

• weddings

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

27 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

904-277-7177

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Authentic

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

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

AMELIA

COMMUNITY

THEATRE A CHRISTMAS STORY Dec. 1-3, 8-10, 15-17 at 8pm Dec. 11 Matinee at 2pm

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

Elizabeth Wilkes

Discover truly independent financial advice. Advice not bound by someone else’s objectives but designed to help meet your needs. Including:

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

PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEO & STILL IMAGING

• Financial Planning • Investment Management • Life Insurance • Long Term Care Insurance

www.financialamelia.com

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

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

28 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.elizabethwilkesphotography.com 904.206.2203 • Fernandina Beach, FL

www.AmeliaIslander.com

FEBRUARY 17 - 19, 2012 WWW.AMELIAISLANDBOOKFESTIVAL.COM

29 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

VyStar Supports

DXU 1]U\YQ 9c\Q^T 2__[ 6UcdYfQ\ Fernandina Branch 1900 South 14th Street

JASMINE ST.

FERNANDINA BEACH BRANCH

SADLER RD. TO I-95

FLETCHER AVE.

S. 14th ST.

8th ST.

ATLANTIC AVE.

904-777-6000 www.vystarcu.org

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©2011 VyStar Credit Union

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Lois Jost, REALTOR

EVERYBODY READS! TERESA J. SOPP ATTORNEY AT LAW tjsopp@crimlawyer.com 2

Sea Horse Properties, Inc. 2477 Sadler Road (904) 572-4788 Lois@LoisJost.com www.TropicalMayberry.com

30 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;¢ DECEMBER 2011 www.AmeliaIslander.com AMELIA ISLAND BOOK FESTIVAL ~ ameliaislandbookfestival.com â&#x20AC;¢ info@ameliaislandbookfestival.com â&#x20AC;¢ 904-624-1665

SPECIAL EVENTS FRIDAY - AUTHORS IN SCHOOLS February 17, 2012 As part of the Book Festival’s commitment to promoting literacy, over 5,000 students in Nassau County Public Schools will have the opportunity to meet a published author during this long standing Festival Friday tradition.

Schools, from VPKs to High Schools will be visited by featured authors, who hope to entertain and enlighten students about the joys of reading and writing.

SPECIAL APPEARANCE FEBRUARY 3, 2012 WORDS & MUSIC with TOM KIMMEL 8 PM - St. Peters Episcopal Church Campus - Burns Hall $15.00 donation (Reservations requested to: info@ameliaislandbookfestival.com) Singer, songwriter, poet, teacher, entertainer - TOM KIMMEL - makes a special solo appearance in a pre-festival Words & Music event. Kimmel has released seven solo albums, published a book of poems, and led songwriting workshops and classes around the country and in Europe. A self described “closet poet” until the publication of The Sweetest and the Meanest, Tom is also a featured writer at book festivals and writing retreats. His music, poetry and stories have been said to “invite his listeners toward a sweet introspection, making for a curious depth of feeling that often surprises them.”

FESTIVAL GALA ONCE UPON A BOOK ISLAND Friday, Feb. 17, 2012 6:00 - 9:30 p.m. $75 individual, $700 table for ten Experience the Book Island. Enjoy dinner (Catered by Horizons) and the island sounds of Pili Pili in a beautiful setting on the marsh at Amelia Island Plantation with festival authors as well as old and new friends who share your love of books. Amelia Island favorite, Steve Berry, is featured along with David Morrell.

CHRISTA POWELL WALLEY SCHOLARSHIP Each year the Amelia Island Book Festival awards a scholarship named for the late Christa Powell Walley, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Powell. The scholarship is available to high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate college students who have ties to Nassau County, Florida. See our website for details. The deadline for applying for the 2012 Scholarship is December 31, 2011.

CHILDREN’S WRITING WORKSHOP Saturday: 10 a.m. - 12 Noon and 1-3:00 pm A Writing Workshop for elementary school children on Saturday at the Book Festival. At the Festival elementary children may write and illustrate a short story and have his/her picture taken by a professional photographer for the cover. Participation is free and on a first-come basis. Sponsored by the Friends of the Fernandina Beach Library.

SPECIAL EVENT SUNDAY, FEB. 19, 2012 Panel Discussion: Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings and Zora Neale Hurston: What do the writings and friendship of these Florida authors tell us in 2012? (Funding for this program was provided through a grant from the Florida Humanities Council with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities.)

Festival Founders Don and Andrea Parker • Joani and Joe Selement Become a Member of the Festival!

As a Member of the Amelia Island Book Festival you have the opportunity to enjoy this incredible literary experience to the fullest. Visit ameliaislandbookfestival.com for more information.

Amelia Island Book Festival Board of Directors Board President Attavia Facciolo Vice President Don Parker Vice President Steve Sell Treasurer Nicola Nicol Secretary Mary Pitcher Immediate Past President Terri Dean

City of Jacksonville 2006 Literacy Matters Heart of Gold Award Winning Organization

Board Members Shannon Brown John Carr Denise McDonald Pam Meyer Terry Ramsay Fran Shea Susan Siegmund Jackie Stubits Terri Ridgell Wright

Director Emeritus Don Shaw

2007 Good Neighbor Award Florida Community College Betty P. Cook Nassau Center

The 2012 Amelia Island Book Festival Program was produced by the Amelia Islander Magazine. Design by Tom Barrett.

ameliaislandbookfestival.com • info@ameliaislandbookfestival.com • 904-624-1665 ~ AMELIA ISLAND BOOK 31 •AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011 www.AmeliaIslander.com ameliaislandbookfestival.com info@ameliaislandbookfestival.com • 904-624-1665 ~ AMELIA ISLAND BOOK

FESTIVAL FESTIVAL

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HEADLINE AUTHORS Awarded the first Literacy Leader Award given by the Amelia Island Book Festival, Steve Berry has been an avid supporter of the Festival. The New York Times bestselling author of the Cotton Malone series had a long and arduous road to publishing, including 12 years and 85 rejections over 5 manuscripts. Berry now has 12 million books in print, translated into 40 languages and sold in 51 countries. He is an accomplished instructor, having taught writing to audiences across the globe.

Berry lives in St Augustine, FL. He and his wife, Elizabeth, started a foundation, History Matters, to aid in the preservation of our heritage. www.steveberry.org

David Morrell is the award-winning author of First Blood, the novel in which Rambo was created. He holds a PhD in American literature and was a professor at the University of Iowa. Morrell’s numerous international bestsellers include the classic spy trilogy, The Brotherhood of the Rose, The Fraternity of the Stone, and The League of Night and Fog. He is the recipient of three Bram Stoker awards as well as the International Thriller Writers organization’s Thriller Master award. A popular writing instructor, he is also the author of The Successful Novelist, in which he discusses what he learned in his four decades as an author.

www.davidmorrell.net

Paula McLain received an MFA in poetry from the University of Michigan and has been awarded fellowships from Yaddo, the MacDowell Colony, and the National Endowment for the Arts. She is the author of two collections of poetry as well as a memoir, Like Family: Growing Up in Other People’s Houses, and a first novel, A Ticket to Ride. She lives with her family in Cleveland. www.randomhouse.com/rhpg/features/paula_mclain/

The Lotus Eaters was described in The New York Times as “A haunting debut… tough and lyrical” and “devastatingly awesome” by NPR’s Nancy Pearl. The novel about the Viet Nam War was written through the eyes of a female photo journalist. The first time author of this New York Times Notable Book, Tatjana Soli, received numerous awards for this novel including Britain’s oldest literary award, the James Tait Black Memorial Prize for fiction. Soli’s writing has appeared in many publications and her work has twice been listed in the 100 Distinguished Stories in Best American Short Stories. She lives in Southern California. www.tatjanasoli.com

FEATURED AUTHORS From her home in North Florida, former journalist Jan Godown Annino writes for young readers and adults, preferring heritage nonfiction topics and historical fiction themes. She Sang Promise is the story of Betty Mae Jumper, Seminole tribal leader, who Annino met about 1980.

www.bookseedstudio.wordpress.com

In addition to Swimming in Chicago, David-Matthew Barnes has written another young adult novel, a suspense novel, and a forthcoming love story. He has written more than 40 stage plays that have been performed in three languages in eight countries.

Barnes teaches English, speech, humanities, and theatre at Southern Crescent Technical College in Griffin, GA. www.davidmatthewbarnes.com D. B. Barton is the awardwinning author of The Singing Sleuth series. When she is not dreaming of ingenious ways to “do away” with disagreeable people, she visits exotic locales and conducts writing workshops at libraries and book clubs.

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Barton was born in New York City and lives in Jacksonville, FL with her husband. www.SingingSleuth.com

Bill Belleville is an award winning author specializing in nature and conservation. Belleville has written six books, contributed to anthologies, scripted films and traveled the world on assignments for Discovery Channel. He lives in Florida which remains his favorite place for its natural diversity and surreality. www.billbelleville.com John Blackwelder lives in Atlantic Beach, FL and is the proud father of two daughters. Blackwelder enjoys the beautiful North Florida outdoors. He is passionate about helping children and considers it a privilege to spread the word about the power of positive thinking. Blackwelder is a motivational speaker in the Duval County School System in Jacksonville, FL. www.posmenatt.com

AMELIA ISLAND BOOK FESTIVAL IS DEDICATED TO PROMOTING LITERACY BY BRINGING READERS AND WRITERS TOGETHER.

Sonny Brewer is very active in the literary arts in Fairhope, AL, including founding the Fairhope Center for Writing Arts. He is the author of The Poet of Tolstoy Park and The Widow and the Tree. Brewer says a writer never lets the truth stand in the way of a good story. www.overthetransom.com

An award-winning journalist and novelist, Kathryn Casey is the creator of a mystery series about a female Texas Ranger/profiler, and the author of six highly acclaimed true crime books. Library Journal chose her third novel, The Killing Storm, as one of the best books of 2010.

Casey has been called “one of the best in the true crime genre.” www.kathryncasey.com Not only is Jackie Cooper a film critic whose reviews appear in newspapers in Georgia, he is often a guest on radio and television shows across the South.

Cooper’s cable television show, The Jackie Cooper Show, is broadcast throughout middle Georgia. Cooper is the author of six books. www.jackiekcooper.com

AMELIA ISLAND BOOK FESTIVAL ~ ameliaislandbookfestival.com • info@ameliaislandbookfestival.com • 904-624-1665 32 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011 www.AmeliaIslander.com AMELIA ISLAND BOOK FESTIVAL ~ ameliaislandbookfestival.com • info@ameliaislandbookfestival.com • 904-624-1665

With 40 years experience in children’s literature, Carol Crane speaks at reading conventions and schools around the country, networking with children and educators. At a recent reading conference Crane was described as, ”… a walking, talking bibliography of children’s books”. www.carolcrane.org

Cynthia Enuton is an author of children’s books. Enuton has worked with emotionally challenged children and adolescents for over 13 years in a residential state facility where she utilizes therapy dogs in the students’ treatment plans. She resides in Florida with her three Pekingese dogs and a 20 year old bird named Sunkiss. www.Gooberella.com Capturing images of wildlife and nature has driven Derek Ferebee to excel at photography for thirty years. The scope of his work and belief in the power of photographs to communicate has guided him toward becoming an author. Ferebee’s delightful children’s book, Dodger Goes West, documents a remote control truck’s travels in the wild west.www.ferebeephotographic.com Marisa Finotti is a writer and journalist. She grew up reading under the covers with a flashlight after her parents insisted she turn off her lamp and go to sleep.

Finotti lives with her husband and two children in Atlantic Beach, FL. When she is not writing, she practices yoga and takes surf lessons from her 11-year old daughter. mcfinotti.wordpress.com/about/

Judy Fradin, collaborating with her renowned writer husband, Dennis Fradin, has co-authored more than 20 award winning children’s and young adult books including a 52 book series about the states. Fradin lives in

103 CENTRE STREET AMELIA ISLAND, FL. 32034 904.321.0404 MAGNASALON.COM

Evanston, IL. www.illinoisauthors.org/authors/ Judith_Bloom_Fradin

Marita Golden is a teacher of writing and an award winning author of over a dozen works of fiction and nonfiction. Golden has served as a member of the faculties of the MFA Graduate Creative Writing programs of George Mason University and Virginia Commonwealth University. She currently teaches in the Fairfield University MFA program. www.maritagolden.com

When Tine Graham is autographing her books she often also creates figure sketches in pen and ink and watercolors of the children talking with her.

Graham’s colorful paintings are a joy and delight as you browse her books. “My work is about life itself, with a touch of humor,” says Graham. www.tineinc.com

Rob and Kim Hicks grew up in Fernandina Beach, FL. They both work in the Nassau County school system; Rob is a guidance counselor at Fernandina Beach High School and Kim teaches first grade at Southside Elementary. Rob along with students produced an award winning film about the history of Amelia Island titled Isle of Eight Flags. www.islandmediapublishing.com

A veteran magazine and newspaper writer and editor, Belinda Hulin is also the author of cookbooks. The devastation of Hurricane Katrina and near loss of family recipes and mementos, prompted Hulin to document the family taste print in The Keepsake Cookbook. When she is not writing Hulin samples and develops recipes in her Atlantic Beach, FL home. www.belindahulin.com

Before turning her attention to writing, Jessica James was a newspaper editor who spent 18 years in a newsroom. James’ Civil War novel, Noble Cause, received the John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction. She is featured in the book, 50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading. www.jessicajamesbooks.com

An Integrative Yoga Therapy Teacher, Liz Kawecki discovered yoga after a serious diving accident left her with severe impairments and injuries including being paralyzed on one side. Teaching yoga to 187 kids from 25 nationalities sparked her book, Yoga ABC’s. Kawecki resides on Amelia Island, FL. www.yyoga.com Historical romances written by Vanessa Kelly have been finalists in several contests. The review journal of the American Library Association named Kelly one of the “new stars of historical romance.” Kelly lives in Canada but spends part of the winter in North Florida. www.vanessakellyauthor.com

Dr. Anna Lillios is an Associate Professor of English at the University of Central Florida.

Her academic interests center on literature of place. She received a Florida Book Award for non-fiction. Lillios is the executive director and a trustee of the Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Society. www.upf.com

Kevin Markey vividly remembers his first hit playing baseball. The thrill was such he nearly forgot to run. Author of works of nonfiction and the Super Sluggers series, Markey lives in Northhampton, MA. He bats left, throws left, and types with both hands. www.kevinmarkey.com

Authors Pat Conroy, Darrell House, Rick Bragg, and Gerald Hausman

Steve Leimberg

PORTRAITS

904.491.0474 ameliaislandbookfestival.com • info@ameliaislandbookfestival.com • 904-624-1665 ~ AMELIA ISLAND BOOK FESTIVAL 5 33 •AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011 www.AmeliaIslander.com ameliaislandbookfestival.com info@ameliaislandbookfestival.com • 904-624-1665 ~ AMELIA ISLAND BOOK FESTIVAL 5

A native Floridian, Mary Ann Miller is an art educator and watercolor artist. A sketchbook from each of her travels in Europe has been combined to create Travels with a Blue Vase. Miller lives in Jacksonville, FL and teaches Travel Sketching 101 and art classes to special needs adults.

A former human resource specialist and free lance sign language interpreter, Todah Reed pursues her passion for teaching. Reed earmarks a portion of the proceeds from Terrance Torn Bear to promote literacy for deaf and hard of hearing children. Reed resides in St. Johns, FL.

A native of Amelia Island, FL, Tony Stubits has been a practicing optometrist for 30 years.

Stubits is knowledgeable on the factors that came together at the turn of the last century to make Fernandina Beach the cradle of the modern shrimping industry. The Ocean under the Moon was a 2011 Indie Book Finalist.

www.travelswithabluevase.weebly.com

www.mstodahsclass.com

www.tonystubits.com

Virginia Lynn Moylan is cofounder of the Zora Fest in Ft. Pierce, FL. Moylan teaches American and British literature in Palm Beach County, FL. She has written articles for magazines and newspapers and was a contributor to The Inside Light: New Critical Essays on Zora Neale Hurston. Moylan is a resident of West Palm Beach, FL. www.upf.com

Former Pittsburgh Pirates’ pitcher and broadcaster, Jim Rooker has written three baseball themed children’s books. Rooker was a member of the Pirates’ 1979 World Championship team and stated that “Baseball has been my passion since I was a child and remains that way more than 60 years later.” He now lives in Jacksonville, FL.

Believing the only security we have comes from within each of us, retired educator Janie Wilkins has drawn on her life experiences to write her memoirs. Her message is to never give up and to fight for what you believe in. Wilkins lives in Fernandina Beach, FL. www.janiewilkins.tateauthor.com

www.booksbyrook.com

Three times Georgia Author of the Year, Pamela Bauer Mueller, has introduced many readers to the history of Georgia’s Golden Isles. Splendid Isolation was a USA Book News 2010 Best Book and a 2011 National Indie Excellence award finalist. Mueller lives on Jekyll Island, GA. www.pinatapub.com Native Floridian, Nancy Murray turned her attention to writing fiction after retiring as a registered nurse. She tries to reach young people through books with credible explanations, not always with answers, of complex issues in today’s world.

Author-Illustrator-MusicianSpeaker Chris Rumble comes to us from his home in the mountains of North Georgia.

Rumble neither confirms nor denies that the series, The Adventures of Uncle Stinky, is autobiographical. His workshop, Reading Pep Rally, has encouraged students and teachers in 29 states.

Author Barbara Spurlin lives in Jacksonville, FL and is retired from the Duval County School Board. Spurlin was recognized by the U. S. Secretary of Education as a National Distinguished Principal. She has now turned her talents to writing children’s books. www.highpitchedhum.net

TRAVELS WITH A BLUE VASE A Mostly Mediterranean Sketchbook

by Mary Ann Miller 120 page collection of watercolor sketches and recipes of France, Italy and Greece that will appeal to all who love to paint, eat, travel or dream!

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www.imagejournal.org/page/ artist-of-the-month/terri-witek

www.chrisrumble.com

www.nancymurrayauthor.com

Annette Myers is a 2010 and 2011 National Indie Excellence award winner. A retired educator in Nassau County, FL, Myers lives on historic American Beach on Amelia Island, FL. Her writing is historic nonfiction. Many in Myers’ community depend on her extensive knowledge about the history of American Beach. www.highpitchedhum.net

The writings of Terri Witek have been both a Florida Book Award Medalist and the 2000 Center for the Book Arts Prize. Witek has written lyric and literary essays about poetry and art. She teaches at Stetson University, where she holds the Sullivan Chair in Creative Writing.

To order, please send $19.95 (+$4 shipping) to: Mary Ann Miller 4326 Springmoor Dr. E. Jacksonville, FL 32225

It’s no mystery…

For all your real estate needs call:

KATHY GARLAND RE/MAX Professional Group

(904) 556-5744 Contact: Visit www.kathygarlandrealtor.com mamgam1@bellsouth.net to search the Nassau County MLS.

AMELIA ISLAND BOOK FESTIVAL ~ ameliaislandbookfestival.com • info@ameliaislandbookfestival.com • 904-624-1665 34 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011 www.AmeliaIslander.com AMELIA ISLAND BOOK FESTIVAL ~ ameliaislandbookfestival.com • info@ameliaislandbookfestival.com • 904-624-1665

SCHEDULE

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2012 Writers Workshops

FSCJ Campus - Betty P. Cook Nassau Center 9:00am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5:00pm Tickets: $65 (Box Lunch included) on sale Dec 1 for members, Jan 1 for non-members Workshops cover a range of topics concerned with writing, editing, and publishing.

Midday will be a working lunch with New York Times bestselling author of CREEPERS, and FIRST BLOOD, David Morrell.

Below are sneak peeks at some of the writing workshops: Workshops and Speakers subject to change Dramatic Writing Workshop with author David-Matthew Barnes Creating the Memoir with author Jackie Cooper A Picture is worth a thousand Words with author Mary Ann Miller Historical Fiction Workshop with author Pamela Bauer Mueller Don't Quit Your Day Job - Author/Editor Sonny Brewer provides valuable lessons for writers from writers.

Converting print books to e-books - Formatting your e-book with author D. B. Barton Angst No More: How To Make Your Synopsis Work for You with author Vanessa Kelly.

Professional Eavesdropping, And Other Ways to Create Dynamic Dialogue with author David-Matthew Barnes Crime, She Writes with author Kathryn Casey Query Letters with author Marita Golden The Value of Story in Creative Non-fiction with author Bill Belleville.

Entertainment Reviews/Personality Profiles with author Jackie Cooper Tasteprints: Your Cookbook as Memoir with author Belinda Hulin Not Enough Hours in the Day: How to Find Time to Write with author David-Matthew Barnes The Lost Bookshelf with author Terri Witek will show how to repurpose discarded books into new poems.

Place as Catalyst in Fiction with author Tatjana Soli Marketing with Wit and Enthusiasm with author Pamela Bauer Mueller The Murder Game with author D. B. Barton. Actively take part in creating a murder mystery.

SATURDAY - FEBRUARY 18, 2012 Authors Luncheon Atlantic Recreation Center 12:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1:30 Tickets: $40 on sale Dec 1 for members, Jan 1 for non-members The keynote speaker will be Paula McLain, New York Times best-selling author of The Paris Wife. The luncheon is capped off with an awards ceremony and the AIBF Writerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Scholarship presentation.

Author Bites First Presbyterian Church, Jim Thomas Hall â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CafĂŠ and Book Store â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1:30 Informal lunch with authors with purchase of box lunch.

Kidz Zone La Tierra Prometida, the former First Baptist Church, N. 5th St., Indoors in the Education Hall. 9:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4:00 FREE ADMISSION Fun and exciting activities for kids of all ages all day long, all free.

Story-telling, crafts, author chats â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Encourage the love of books and reading!

Meet the authors.

Readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Workshops First Presbyterian Church 9:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4:30 FREE ADMISSION EVERYONE IS INVITED! Meet the authors, book signings all day, Hear authors speak about reading and writing. Here are just a few of the interesting and challenging topics you will findâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;Ś

Chat with NYT bestselling author Steve Berry Author of The Jefferson Key Chat with bestselling, award-winning author Tatjana Soli Author of The Lotus Eaters Chat with Sonny Brewer, author of Poet of Tolstoy Park and editor of Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Quit Your Day Job, as well as Editor-in-Chief at MacAdam/Cage Publishing.

Writing for Young Adults David-Matthew Barnes shares insights gained teaching and writing for a young adult audience.

Amelia Island: The Birthplace of the Modern Shrimping Industry Tony Stubits talks about the history of shrimping on Amelia Island and using historical information in writing fiction.

Transforming the News into Riveting Stories Nancy Murray speaks of her experience writing for young people about complex issues of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a book that I think could have the impact of a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Gone With the Wind.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; J.N., Director for Civil War Studies

/PCMFF $BBVTFF " //PWFM PG -PWF 88BSS Winner of the coveted

John Esten Cooke Award for Fiction

â&#x20AC;&#x153;A riveting piece of historical Ƥction, very much highly recommended reading.â&#x20AC;?

- Midwest Book Review

She was the foe he had vowed to destroy, and the woman he had sworn to protect.

Honor and convicĆ&#x;on clash with loyalty and love in this award-winning Civil War novel that pits brother against brother.

Signed hardcover copies available: Jessica@CivilWarFiction.com $20 + 3 Shipping (Reg. $26.99)

www.jessicajamesbooks.com

Salvaging the Real Florida Bill Belleville will discuss â&#x20AC;&#x153;sense of placeâ&#x20AC;? in writing as revealed in his book as well as those of others who have written about Florida.

The Future of Reading and Writing Marita Golden draws from her experience as an author and writing teacher to discuss the future of reading and writing.

BIG BOSSY BETTY

The Secret of Writing Non-Fiction Novels Pamela Bauer Mueller walks participants through the steps of writing a novel about real people and true events.

Creating the Memoir Jackie Cooper talks about the doâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t of memoir writing, as well as a guide to constructing your stories, including the hook, the development and the wrap.

Dukes, Madmen, and Courtesans What Jane Austen Didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Tell Us About Life in Regency England Vanessa Kelly presents a behind the scenes look at what life was really like in early 19th century England.

The Passionate Memoir Three memoir writers discuss how they used a personal passion to shape a memoir â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Belinda Hulin, Mary Ann Miller, Janie Wilkins.

Traveling Art: Creating Your Own Illustrated Travel Journal Mary Ann Miller presents a workshop for anyone with a love of travel, art, and books.

Real Cases/Real Stories Kathryn Casey discusses how to write true crime, what to look for in a case, how to research and write about real stories.

In a Sea Without Sound Terri Witek shares her poetry about Ariadne from her book Exit Island.

The Genre Game: How the Genre Shapes the Tale Fiction authors, D. B. Barton, Kathryn Casey, and Vanessa Kelly, discuss the perils and pitfalls of genre.

Workshop topics and speakers subject to change. Times and other information will be available soon at www.ameliaislandbookfestival.com

The new book by Tine Graham is a fun, colorful book on manners for the young and old. Bursting with colorful illustrations and loads of fun, this is not your typical Miss Manners handbook. Children love it! www.tinegraham.com You can purchase the book by emailing the author at tine973g@aol.com.

ameliaislandbookfestival.com â&#x20AC;˘ info@ameliaislandbookfestival.com â&#x20AC;˘ 904-624-1665 ~ AMELIA ISLAND BOOK FESTIVAL 35 â&#x20AC;˘AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ DECEMBER 2011 www.AmeliaIslander.com ameliaislandbookfestival.com info@ameliaislandbookfestival.com â&#x20AC;˘ 904-624-1665 ~ AMELIA ISLAND BOOK FESTIVAL

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Our Roots Run Deep Rayonier has been part of the fabric of Florida’s First Coast for over 70 years.

Our U.S. Forest Resources group, headquartered in Fernandina Beach, sustainably manages more than 2 million acres of timberland in nine states.

In 1937 we broke ground on our Performance Fibers mill in Fernandina Beach to meet demand for a revolutionary product – a chemical cellulose fiber known as Rayon. Today employees produce specialty cellulose fibers used in many different products including textiles, paints, filters, LCD screens, and food products.

At Rayonier, we pay close attention to the changes in the value of our lands and their surroundings. The continuous evaluation of our lands helps us determine the best possible use for each acre. Through TerraPointe Services, our real estate subsidiary works with communities to help them plan responsibly for the future and offers a mixture of development, conservation and recreation properties.

We’re proud of our long history in Nassau County and to call Northeast Florida home.

36 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Magical Memorable Musical Gifts!

ENS’ GENTLEM AR T Y PANIC P 24 DEC.19-

Every leaf speaks bliss to me me, fluttering from the autumn tree tree.

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37 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

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go ahead, get festive.

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(904) 261-5546 1875 S 14th St • Fernandina Beach www.artistic-florist.com 38 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

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2011

DECEMBER 1

Light Up a Life Enjoy fine wine, dinner buffet and a silent auction to benefit Take Stock in Children.

6-9pm. Omni AIP Conference Center. Tickets are $75 and available at Resort to Home. For more information, call (904) 261-6161.

DECEMBER 2

20th Annual Taste of Amelia Island A culinary fair to benefit the Nassau County Volunteer Center. Twenty restaurants and wine purveyors will highlight their excellent cuisines and fine wines. Cocktails will be served from 6:30pm to 7pm and the Taste will be from 7pm to 9pm. Music will be provided by “Crescendo Amelia” and a silent auction of unique items will be held. Semi-formal attire is required. $40 per ticket. Tickets can be purchased online at www.volunteernassau.org, or at various locations around the island. For more information, call (904) 261-2771.

DECEMBER 2 – 3

Amelia Island Holiday Home Tour Tour 5 private vintage homes in the Historic District of Fernandina Beach. All five homes will be decorated by professional decorators/florists for the Christmas season and costumed docents, first person presenters and carolers will be circulating at the homes. The tour is open from 10am to 4pm. Free trolley service will transport visitors to each of the homes. Tickets are $25 if purchased before December 2; $30 on the days of the tour. Contact the Museum at (904) 261-7378, ext. 100 for more information.

DECEMBER 2 – 4, 9 – 11, 16 – 18, 23, 24

Bounce House & Santa’s Workshop Bring the whole family for holiday crafts and fun! Crafts range from $5-$15 and may be purchased with a credit card or guest amenity card. Bounce house is complimentary. 2-4pm.

The Recreation Activity Center at Onmi AIP. For more information, call (904) 261-6161.

DECEMBER 3

Parade of Paws Redbones Dog Bakery and Boutique’s 11th annual parade down Centre Street gives owners a chance to showcase their pets, with prizes and trophies. Pre-register at Redbones, or day of the parade at 10am in the Central Park parking lot. $10 minimum donation benefits the Nassau Humane Society. 10:30am line-up; 11 am parade. For more inforamtion, call Martinique Lemke at (904) 583-0776.

DECEMBER

and historic Old Town Fernandina. There will be lots of family fun and lots of chances to win! The Fun Run With Santa is free with a gift donation for Toys for Tots. Each finisher receives a candy cane. For more info, call (904) 491-4959.

DECEMBER 3

Pancake Breakfast at Applebee’s Amelia Island Parent Co-op Pre-School holds their annual pancake breakfast and silent auction with theme park tickets, massages, autographed Jaguar football and more. From 8 to 10am. $6 per breakfast ticket. Call (904) 261-1161 for more information.

DECEMBER 3 – 4

Union Holiday Encampment Experience this gathering of re-enactors decorating the fort for Christmas. Volunteers in Civil War era costume place fresh greenery on the mantle, put up and decorate a period Christmas tree, and portray daily life as it was in the winter of 1864. The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to noon on Sunday. For more information, visit visit www.floridastateparks.org/fortclinch or call (904) 277-7274.

Photos with Santa at the Depot Santa will be downtown by the Visitors Welcome Center (Depot) for photos from Noon to 2:30 p.m. Photos are $5 per picture and will be ready on site for pick up within the hour.

Proceeds to benefit Shiny Badges, Inc. For more info, contact Sandy Price at (904) 206-0756.

An informal group of women who meet to discuss financial and related issues affecting us all. Come and ask the questions you have always wanted to ask and get insight to the questions you haven’t thought of yet. Financial answers and ideas over a glass of wine. Begins at 5:30 p.m. For more information, call (904) 305-2608.

DECEMBER 10

Lighted Land Parade Enjoy a parade of lighted floats along the parade route in historic downtown Fernandina Beach.

From 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. For more info., call (904) 206-0756.

DECEMBER 10

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

Amelia Arts Academy Winter Wonderland Concert Enjoy a day of performances by the talented students and ensembles of Amelia Arts Academy.

Concert will be held at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. Tickets are $10 and available by calling (904) 277-1225.

DECEMBER 11

DECEMBER 3, 10, 17

Christmas Cantata

Santa’s Storybook Tea A holiday storybook performance by Santa adds an exciting twist to the traditional afternoon tea, featuring sandwiches, sweets, and a souvenir photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus. $45 per person, ages 5 and up, price is inclusive of gratuity. Reservations are required. 12 - 1pm.

For more information, call (904) 277-1100, or visit www.ritzcarlton.com/ameliaisland.

DECEMBER 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Fernandina Farmers’ Market

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

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

DECEMBER 4

DECEMBER 3

The Reindeer Run will be at Main Beach Park.

The half-marathon route will include ocean views, the shaded natural beauty of Fort Clinch,

Alexei Romanenko, principal cellist of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, performs Bach’s Cello Suites at a beautiful private home.

Tickets are $40 and can be purchased by calling (904) 277-1225.

39 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

Women, Wealth & Wine

DECEMBER 11

DECEMBER 3, 10, 17

Amelia Arts Academy Sunday Musicale

Reindeer Run Half Marathon and 5K

DECEMBER 8

Amelia Plantation Chapel presents a festival of carols. Cantata begins at 10am. For more information, call (904) 261-6161.

DECEMBER 16

Third on 3rd

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

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

DECEMBER 19 – 24

Gentlemens’ Panic Party Fun, beverages and snacks to help last minute shoppers find exactly the jewelry and gifts she wants. Free gift wrap. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Nassau Diamond Fine Jewelry, 1743 South 8th Street Fernandina Beach, Florida (904) 277-1993.

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

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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We are very proud to announce that Dan Driscoll, M.D. and our new partner, South East Eye, have joined Coastal Vision Center.

Dr. Driscoll graduated magna cum laude from Ohio State University of Medicine and Public Health. He has completed his fellowship in Corneal and Refractive Surgery at the internationally acclaimed Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami, Florida. In addition to fellowship trained cornea surgery, Dr. Driscoll will be performing technically advanced state of the art cataract and refractive surgery in Fernandina Beach.

Call or come by today for more info.

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Our future plans include additional subspecialty eye care providers. It is our ultimate goal that no patients will have to leave the Fernandina / Amelia Island area for any of their eye care needs.

Join us in welcoming Dr. Dan Driscoll to our practice.

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The Mayan & Lafite March Local members of the “Chaine des Rotisseurs” and their friends gather each year to celebrate extraordinary wine and the pleasures of the table.

BY KAREN MILLER • PHOTO BY KATRIN BELL

A

ccording to the ancient Mayan Long Count Calendar, December 21, 2012 marks the end of the world.

For Garry Fehrman, an Amelia Island resident and owner of Espressos Café, this prophesy has prompted reflection on the best use of his wine cellar’s greatest treasures. In response, he has hosted a four-year series of private dinners at Espressos Café, celebrating history’s gastronomic and vinicultural gifts. In October 2009, for the first such dinner, he broke into his wine cellar to open up some fabulous wines and create a superb menu to complement them. On October 2012—just before the clock runs out on the fearsome Mayan prophesy—he will host the last.

Each fall, these dinners have featured a progression of extraordinary wines, rated 96 to 100 by experts such as Robert Parker, the world’s pre-imminent independent wine authority. This year’s dinner featured the chef’s special entrée, Beef Daube Provençal with Poached Peas over Tagliatelle, paired with 2004 Clarendon Hills Astralis Syrah, and Chocolate Truffle Cake with Berries & Lightly Sweetened Cream, paired with Sandeman vintage porto.

And the shining star to be enjoyed next year just before the prophesized end of times? Château Lafite-Rothschild’s 1996 Premier Grand Cru Classé du Pauillac, Médoc, a wine happily arriving at the beginning of its 50-year ideal drinking period in 2012, and one of only two of the renowned estate’s wines to receive a perfect score of 100 by Parker.

Château Lafite-Rothschild’s premier cru wines have been much sought after

throughout the world for more than 300 years and become very expensive as they mature and each vintage’s availability decreases. The 1996 vintage currently sells for approximately $1,900 per bottle, while older but lower-rated vintages, reach $15,000.

“Having cellared for years a wine far superior to anything that Kings

France in 1248 during the reign of King Louis IX. At present, there are over 25,000 Chaine members throughout the world, and Chaine-affiliated restaurants such as Espresso’s Café are committed to preserving and sharing the ancient society’s goals. “The Chaine is all about good food, good wine, and warm camaraderie,” notes Griffin.

John Devries, Milt Shirley, Bill Sterenberg, and Bob Touchette, while not Chaine members, have joined Fehrman, Griffin, and Snyder in their adventure.

Louis IX through XVI drank, it would be a great tragedy if the Mayan Prophecy proved accurate, and my friends and I, and perhaps the most spectacular wine the world has ever seen, became stardust without having met each other at the table,” says Fehrman.

Fehrman and friends Ross Griffin and Gary Snyder are members of the “Chaine des Rotisseurs,” the world’s oldest and most prestigious gastronomical society, founded in

41 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

Fehrman and his friends are welltraveled and rich in knowledge about fine wines and food. They’re not taking the end of the world prophesy too seriously, though. They’re just having playful fun, Chainestyle, enjoying the ancient gifts of camaraderie and pleasures of the table, and pursuit of excellence in the culinary arts. For related information, visit www.espressoscafe.com and www.chaineus.org.

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GEORGE LE-BERT, DO, AND CAROLINA LE-BERT, DVM

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42 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

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AT AN ART SHOW AND OPENING AT JACK & DIANE’S IN DOWNTOWN FERNANDINA BEACH

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island home

A Historic Home

for the

Holidays

BY JAN DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOLLY ALLAIN PHOTOGRAPHY

The Kavanaugh’s dining room is quite elegant with the simplicity of red ribbon and natural greenery. The collections of antique Rose Medallion porcelain is a perfect table setting for the holidays.

hristmas décor and antiques seem to be the perfect complement for one another. That idea was never more vividly demonstrated than during the 2010 Holiday Home Tour, in which the home of Bill and Anne Kavanaugh—a Queen Anne style house in downtown Fernandina Beach—provided a stunning stage for the “nouveau” floral design techniques of Brooke Raulerson, AIFD, owner of Artistic Florist.

Brooke Raulerson, 30, has owned Artistic Florist since the age of 24, when she bought the business from her mother, Kim Grubbs.

Brooke grew up with flowers as part of her life and began professionally designing when she was 15. After graduation, she worked as a visual

C

47 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

island home

The living room and foyer provide Brooke Raulerson of Artistic Florist with an opportunity to showcase her unique talent with flowers. The mantle design is attached to a board and makes a dramatic statement. The foyer arrangement used orchids tied with ribbon and hanging from bare branches.

merchandiser for area companies, as well as in Atlanta. In 2003, she married Dale Raulerson, who is in a related floral business, and they have two young children.

Raulerson’s accomplishments include being named “Florida State Designer of the Year” in 2010; being chosen to instruct other professional florists at state conventions; and being featured at the American Institute of Floral Design’s international show, where she presented ideas on the “New Generation of Design.”

She did all that in the same year—while also designing the flowers for 152 weddings! “Weddings are my passion,” she says.

“I never do the same thing twice.” With her boundless energy and talent, she is constantly experimenting with new design

techniques, and the Holiday Home Tour provides a wonderful canvas for her work.

Anne and Bill Kavanaugh’s home has been in Bill’s family for seven generations. It was built in 1859 at a cost of $2,500 for Bill’s ancestor, the Reverend Archibald Baker, the first pastor of the Fernandina’s First Presbyterian Church. The Kavanaughs have lived in the home since 1974 and they raised their four children there. It is a classic example of Fernandina Beach’s beloved Victorian architecture, and the Kavanaughs were very gracious to open it for the 2010 Holiday Home Tour. Coupled with Brooke Raulerson’s dynamic floral designs, it was definitely a showstopper.

48 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

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eating scene

Jade’s Bistro With fresh and delicious Asian food, including traditional offerings, curries, noodle dishes, and more, Jade’s has something for everyone.

BY KAREN MILLER • PHOTO BY WILLIAM RASER

M

y partner, Rumsey, and I love Jade’s Bistro on Sadler Road. It’s been a real go-to restaurant for us, and for many of our friends, because of their delicious, fresh Asian fusion food, plus great prices and a friendly atmosphere. On our way home from work the other night, Rumsey and I met at Jade’s for a fabulous and satisfying Asian dinner.

We began our meal with Jade’s crispy, fried wonton chips, light and airy, served with duck sauce and hot Asian mustard.

Jade’s manager, Michelle, suggested two different wines for our meal: Rodney Strong Merlot and Kendall Jackson Chardonnay.

The merlot has a soft, but rich flavor, and is very nice with any beef dish. The chardonnay has always been a favorite wine of mine. With tropical flavors and nice acidity, it goes well with chicken or seafood.

All of Jade’s dinners are served with soup or salad, so I had the House Salad and Rumsey, the Wonton Soup. The salad is fresh, crispy, with shredded lettuce and carrots and the house dressing is a soy and ginger offering that I really love. The soup is a clear broth with shrimp wontons, water chestnuts, and carrots in a chicken broth.

As we munched on our wontons and sipped our wine, Michelle brought out our appetizer, Lettuce Wraps. This was a delicious starter for two, a mixture of chicken, mushrooms, water chestnuts over crispy rice noodles, and lettuce cups.

The idea is to place some of the chicken mixture on a piece of lettuce, roll it up, then dip it into palm sauce, which is similar to hoisin sauce. We loved this dish: It combines sweet and salty flavors, and the chicken is melt-in-your-mouth tender. It’s also quite bountiful, nearly an entrée in itself, One of their specials that night was Sizzling Steak, a new menu offering. The steak is a New York Strip that has been sliced super thin on the diagonal and served actually “sizzling,” on a screaming hot cast iron plate with snow peas, onions, and carrots, with a special sauce poured over all. The sauce (the chef’s secret!) really complemented the steak and the perfectly cooked vegetables, which were still a little crispy.

The other dish we enjoyed was Chicken with Crispy Eggplant in Spicy Garlic Sauce. This is one of my favorite entrees at Jade’s: sliced chicken breast, crispy fried eggplant, bell peppers, broccoli, snow peas, and ear wood mushrooms, sautéed in a spicy brown garlic sauce. I love the way the “fried” technique really transforms the eggplant: it becomes soft and almost buttery inside. The other vegetables are beautiful and tasty.

Both of our entrees were served with brown rice, my personal favorite, but you can order fried rice or white rice, if you desire. And just a note about the fried rice, it is freshtasting, and not overly salted like some I have had at other restaurants—and most likely healthier. I also like the fact that Jade’s offers some healthy alternatives on their menu, and believe me, these dishes still taste delicious. I love their Buddha’s Delight, a mélange of steamed vegetables and yummy sauce.

There’s a little bit of everything at Jade’s: traditional offerings, curries, Asian fusion specials, rice dishes, noodles, and terrific lunch specials. They are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

50 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

dining out

Amelia Islander

dining guide

Elegant Ambience & Amenities Scrumptious Table Pleasures Fine Wines, Coffees & Teas Tuscan Hospitality Mon - Wed 8 am - 5 pm Thur - Sat 8 am - 8 pm www.espressoscafe.com

29 South ~ This eclectic bistro has it all; great ambiance, fantastic food, an extensive wine list and reasonable prices. The menu can best be described as traditional world cuisine with modern, whimsical twist, where award-winning executive chef and owner Scotty Schwartz paints a playground for the palette. Choose from entrees including: lobster corn dogs with spicy horseradish ketchup spiked with ketel one vodka, seared scallops on green tea smoked thai curry nage topped with crispy calamari straws, and sweet tea brined smithfield farm pork chop on macaroni gratin with warm blackberry preserves. 29 South also features grilled pizzas, sandwiches, and nightly specials. 29 South Third Street, Historic Downtown, (904) 2777919, www.29southrestaurant.com.

Barberitos ~ Barberitos is a Southwestern grille and cantina where your food is made-to-order right in front of you, exactly the way you tell us to make it. In addition to serving only the best tasting burritos, we also offer delicious tacos, quesadillas, nachos and salads. Barberitos offers fresh, healthy, and absolutely delicious food, made-to-order, just the way you like it. 1521 Sadler Road. Major credit cards. 1521 Sadler Rd, (904) 277-2505.

Bar Zin ~ Inspired by 30 years in the hospitality industry and numerous trips to Napa and Sonoma, our philosophy at Bar Zin is quite simple: create a fun relaxed upbeat indoor / outdoor atmosphere where friends and families can enjoy creative, fresh American bistro cuisine.

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

Lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch. Major credit cards. 4924 First Coast Hwy at Palmetto Walk Shopping Village. (904) 310-6620 Beech Street Grill ~ This restaurant has won awards for its wine list and has been selected often as one of the 25 best restaurants in the area. It features an outstanding seafood selection including seared tuna, herb roasted sea bass and

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52 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

swordfish piccata prepared in New American style. 277-3662. 801 Beech Street. Open seven days. D, $$$, F. Bonito Grill and Sushi ~ Bonito Grill & Sushi offers guests a unique dining experience with an “East meets West” fusion cooking style. Enjoy miso-rubbed Chilean Sea Bass, black bean & garlic Maine lobster, hoisin citrus glazed salmon, or one of our chef’s daily fusion specials.

Dine in the casual sushi bar area, or for a more elegant evening, select from our extensive wine list and indulge in the experience of our warm, contemporary dining room. Monday through Saturday, join us for lunch, and try Bonito’s popular Bento lunch box. Our full bar, eclectic menu, and unique atmosphere will provide a new twist to your normal lunch or dinner routine. 614 Centre St. 261-0508. www.bonitogrillandsushi. com Lunch: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm, Sat. 12:00-2:30pm, Dinner: 7 days, 5:30-9:30pm V/ MC/AE. Brett’s Waterway Cafe ~ The only restaurant on the island where you can dine overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, Brett’s offers a wide choice of seafood, chicken and beef with daily specials both at lunch and dinner. The view of the water, the impeccable service and the refined ambiance will enhance your dining pleasure. The large rectangular bar overlooking the Fernandina Harbor Marina is a pleasant place to enjoy a drink. Open seven days. At the marina on Front Street. 261-2660. Open 7 days, Mon-Sat L, D, $$$, F. Café Karibo ~ Located on North 3rd St. just off Centre Street in the historic downtown district.

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

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

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

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

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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

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

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

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

Available for private events at other times. (904) 491-9800. Major credit cards. B,L,D. $$ Gourmet Gourmet ~ Gourmet Gourmet is located between The Ritz-Carlton and AIP at the historical American Beach entrance, on the corner of Lewis Street and A1A. In addition to our fabulous selections of baked goods, appetizers, salads, & entrées to go, we also serve gourmet coffees/cappuccino/espresso with continental breakfast items, brunch, and lunch everyday.

A bistro-style dinner menu is served Wed-Sat 5-9pm. AE/MC/ V/DISC 261-8973. Sun-Tues 9am-6pm; Wed-Sat 9am-Seasonal. $$, B,L,D. Joe’s 2nd Street Bistro ~ Located in historic downtown Fernandina, Joe’s 2nd Street Bistro serves innovative cuisine in a relaxed, island atmosphere. Enjoy fresh seafood, game, and specialty dishes in a charming 1903 home, or outside in a New Orleans-inspired courtyard.

Jacksonville Magazine Top 25. Extensive wine list available. Reservations recommended. Major credit cards. 321-2558. Open seven days. D, $$$.

Lulu’s at the Thompson House ~ Lulu’s is more than just a sandwich shop! The dinner menu changes nightly to showcase the best available fresh, local seafood. Lunch features sandwiches, po’ boys, salads, and a wide selection of seafood “little plates.” Open for lunch and dinner Tues - Sat. Sunday Brunch from 10:30 - 3. Beer and wine available. Major credit cards. Reservations recommended. 11 South 7th Street. Historic Downtown Fernandina. www.lulusamelia.com.

(904) 432-8394.

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

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

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

Beach Bar - NOW OPEN!

~ Flavors to Savor ~

Wed - Macy’s Play Live 6-9 for Wing Night Thurs - FREE pizza (with purchase of another pizza) from 5 - 8 Fri - Live Music Every Friday Upstairs Available for Private Parties The Only True Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar on Amelia Island.

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

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

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

Eclectic wine menu.

Daily Lunch Specials Old South Yankee

Reservations recommended.

Gourmet Shop & Catering

LE CLOS RESTAURANT

1667 South 8th St. • 904-277-5609

www.leclos.com

Fernandina’s First

Fusion Restaurant

20 South Second Street

904-261-8100

614 Centre St. 904.261.0508

Dinner

Daily 5:30pm - 9:30pm

Lunch

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

FRESH LOCAL SEAFOOD & STEAKS Beer • Wine • Cocktails 31 N. 2nd St. DOWNTOWN

261-4749

53 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

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

ASIAN FUSION CUISINE Chinese & Thai

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

Only $

795

Beer & Wine ~ ‘To-Go’ Available

1484 Sadler Rd.

904-321-2777

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Dec. 10 - 18 Holiday Gift Certificates Available fltplay@peoplepc.com or 206-2607 1014 Beech St. • www.ameliaflt.org

THE TRAVEL AGENCY A very big THANK YOU to all of our participants in our 1st Annual Photo Contest!

1ST PLACE ~ GLORIAN LEACH 2nd Place ~ Joe Brumund 3rd Place ~ Dane Carmichael Honorable Mentions ~ Joe Waas and Steve Shearer Look for a bigger and better photo contest in 2012!

First place photo by Glorian Leach

1401 Park Street, Suite 1 • Amelia Island, FL 32034 904-261-5914 • www.thetvlagency.com

Picante ~ Just west of the Shave Bridge, Picante offers the vibrant flavors of Peru and Latin America with a contemporary look and a fun atmosphere boasting a large dining area and free Wi-Fi throughout. The menu at Picante reflects the culinary influences of Latin America providing their guests with a distinctive and unique Latin dining experience. Mostly influenced by Peruvian cuisine, we stamp our dishes with new, bold flavors to challenge and excite your palate!

Offering everything from authentic Peruvian Cebiche to Argentinian cuts of beef with chimichurri sauce. Picante also serves an extensive selection of both boutique South American wines as well as international and domestic craft brew beers, adding a unique flare to the Island’s dining experience. For more information please call (904) 310-9221/9222 or visit us at www.picantenassau.com. Open: Thur. - Sat for Lunch 11:30am - 3pm; Mon-Sun for Dinner. $$. B/W. PLAE ~ PLAE (People Laughing and Eating) features a brilliant and seductive atmosphere that accompanies an incomparable menu. Both the menu and the lounge are classic, with exciting twists and unexpected elements that tantalize all appetites. Make PLAE a must on your “to do” list. Located at The Spa & Shops at Amelia Island Plantation. 277-2132. D, $$$, F. Sandy Bottoms ~ Casual dining, lunch and dinner menu, outside beach bar, tables and chairs in the sand on the beach, live entertainment almost every night, feet from the ocean. We offer seafood, sandwiches, salads, and home made pizzas. Full bar inside and outside.

Sliders Seaside Grill ~ The Caribbean on Amelia Island! Slider’s offers fun dining for the whole family! Exotic seafood and steaks served to order are the specials of the house. Enjoy a beautiful oceanfront view inside, or on the patio, located steps from the beach. Open daily for lunch and dinner. 1998 S. Fletcher Ave. at Sadler Rd. (next to the roundabout). 277-6652. L, D, $$, F. The Surf ~ Dine indoors or out on the huge, oceanview deck. The extensive menu features delicious seafood, steaks, burgers, wraps, salads and Boar’s Head sandwiches. Daily specials include our famous all-you-can-eat wings (Wed. night) and $6.99 lobsters all day Sunday. Casual, fun atmosphere. Take-out available. Open daily from 11am. 29 TVs throughout. WIFI available.

Full service bar. Entertainment every night and weekend afternoons. 3199 S. Fletcher AVe. 2615711. L, D, $$, F. The Verandah ~ Charmingly casual with today’s freshest seafood…The Verandah alone is worth a trip to Amelia. Sample specially prepared delicacies from the sea as well as grilled New York strip, pan-roasted free-range chicken, grilled pork tenderloin and more! Set among the live oaks of Racquet Park, views are splendid and the service is even better. Dinner nightly, 5:30pm-9pm.

Amelia Island Plantation, 6800 First Coast Hwy. Reservations, 321-5050. www.aipfl.com B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner. $=Entrees under $10, $$=Entrees up to $15. $$$=Entrees over $15. F=Full bar, B/W=Beer & Wine

54 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

modern classic Perfectly situated with views of the Golf Club of Amelia Island’s signature hole #5, this residence offers a quiet culde-sac location in gated Golfside South. Directly across the street from the Ritz-Carlton and Atlantic Ocean, this 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home is in a prime spot and it gets better inside! Fabulous open floor plan offers 3,189 square feet and is designed to maximize views The spacious kitchen

is outfitted with granite countertops and stainless steel appliance, double door pantry, volume ceilings, fireplace, wood floors on entire first level, wet bar, living room/office lined with built in bookshelves, master suite with amazing closet space. Huge screened porch and stamped concrete patio overlooking lake and golf course are the perfect spots to enjoy island living!

For more information on this unique property, call Pat or Pam Troxel with Coldwell Banker The Amelia Group at (904) 556-3228.

55 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

Rated #1 Agent by an Independent Lab

(904) 415-1002 - Cellular amelia4sale@aol.com • www.territennille.com

Terri Tennille

2216 LINKSIDE VILLAS REDUCED

Great buy in Amelia Island Plantation. Light and bright two bedroom, two bath townhouse with beautiful views of the golf course and lake. Walk to the beach. Club membership available. $300,000

6 WATER OAK ROAD This well-maintained, recently REDUCED remodeled 3 BR, 3.5 BA home in Amelia Island Plantation provides wonderful living space indoors and out.

Pavers in the front and back with a low maintenance yard and lightscaping. All with a view of the golf course! New roof added in 2005 and total house was replumbed in 2008 when upgrades were done. This home is priced well with today’s upgraded standards, perfect for the buyer who wants move-in ready. $599,000

85386 SAGAPONACK DRIVE This is not a short sale! If you are looking for a well-maintained home at a good price, this is it! No waiting and move-in ready. This four bedroom split floor plan is perfect for any family. Features include center island in the kitchen and a comfortable screened porch. $239,990

Marcy Mock Amelia Island ~ Nassau County Board of Realtors #1 Top Producer

~ Featured Listings ~ CARLTON DUNES AT SUMMER BEACH

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

These units start at $1,250,000.

OCEAN PLACE AT SUMMER BEACH

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

These units start at $475,000 and are direct oceanfront.

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

Come & Enjoy Our Five Diamond Neighbors

MARCY MOCK

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

www.marcymock.com

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLAND LISTINGS AND SALES 8235 The Residence Ct Exceptional 4BR/3.5BA home in exclusive gated community on the south end. Kitchen has gas stove, double ovens, Bosch appliances, Sub-Zero refrigerator, & all granite tops. Living room has 22 ft. ceilings.

Separate study downstairs & an open game or TV room upstairs with wet bar. Pool & tennis court nearby. Golf Club Membership available. Just 1 blk from the beach. $725,000

495 Crosswind Dr

North Beach Ocean Views Completely remodeled in 2008.

Kitchen features granite counters and overlooks an open living and dining area. Double sliders opening to the balcony bring the outdoors in. Custom fireplace surround and shelving in the living area, with a sitting room off the living room. Outdoor kitchen for grilling and dual decks capture glorious ocean views. Easy beach access, and the island lifestyle at it’s best! #56336 $495,000

Completely Remodeled!

This 5BR, 3.5BA home is within walking distance to the beach.

Large open kitchen features granite counter tops and center island with cooktop. Volume ceilings and archways enhance the openness of this home. Large master bedroom flaunts a sitting area, large walk-in closets, and bath with garden tub and double vanities. 17’ X 10’ screened porch and a 8’X 8’ open deck are just a few of the features. $575,000

2752 First Ave Snuggled under beautiful live oak trees this home offers extraordinary privacy and only a block to the beach. Family room sports a cozy fireplace.

The tiled kitchen with center Island opens to breakfast area.

Sliding glass doors lead to large secluded stoned patio that’s perfect for entertaining or just sipping morning coffee. Don’t overlook this jewel. Being sold furnished. $349,000

4241 South Fletcher Ave Private estate with captivating ocean views on oversized lot.

This custom home features a 17’ x 32’ family room with wet bar downstairs plus 2 large bedrooms & bath. You’ll love the kitchen loaded with cabinets, Jenn-Aire range & Corian countertops. All of this, plus a large back deck with enclosed pool & spa overlooking the preservation area. $599,000

Bright and open, yet traditional floor plan perfect for entertaining or family gatherings. Wide plank oak floors throughout the living areas, gourmet kitchen, fireplace, french doors and many windows. Large master suite and two additional bedrooms upstairs. First floor guest suite or study. Situated on a large, private lot with plenty of room to add a pool. A large wrap around deck highlighted by a screened gazebo. 3 bay garage. #55808 $420,000

Historic Beauty This beautiful historic home was remolded in 2005 with new roof, all new plumbing and electrical, new upstairs air conditioner, hot water heater and a brand new dishwasher. Lovely hardwood floors throughout and vintage architectural details. You enjoy the spacious rooms, and 11 ft. ceilings.

With C-2 zoning, this can be used residential or commercial. Walking distance to downtown shops and restaurants. MLS#50895 $199,900

Tidewater Steps from the beach and meticulously maintained, this lakefront home features a bright, open plan with hardwood flooring. The living room has a corner fireplace and French doors, and opens to a screened and tiled porch. The kitchen has granite counters and a breakfast room, and the spacious master suite overlooks the lake and offers an updated bath with a garden tub and separate tiled shower. MLS#54102 $315,000

Call Pam

Meyer

For Professional Real Estate Services PROFESSIONAL GROUP 303 Centre Street, Suite 102, Amelia Island

904.415.0303

www.AmeliaIslandProperties.com

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

Claudia

watts BROKER-ASSOCIATE

Contact Claudia today for market insight!

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

Call Anne Today ~ 904.583.0734 www.annebarbanel.com John T. Ferreira & Son, Inc. 500 Centre Street • Amelia Island

Selling the Amelia Island Lifestyle since 1995...

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

Low Country home in Amelia Island Plantation 31 Salt Marsh Drive MLS#56200 $898,000 Magni½cence in the heart of Amelia Island 645 Gaines Lane MLS#56339 $720,000 Bright & airy desirable courtyard home 95168 Willet Way MLS#54845 $565,000 Woods & privacy abound in this treasured home 12 Painted Bunting MLS#55697 $539,000 Golf front with distant views of the marsh 18 Belted King½sher MLS#56385 $495,000 A bit of Bermuda on Amelia Island 1566 Plantation Oaks Terrace MLS#56349 $367,000 Ocean views 2973 South Fletcher Avenue MLS#54285 $359,000 Beautifully renovated upper level condo 2207 Linkside Villas MLS#56384 $299,900

1885 GARDENIA STREET Great price for this beautiful home in sought after Amelia Park. The home boasts wood floors in living areas, granite counter tops in kitchen and a gas stove for the gourmet cook. The rooms are very open and bright and the master’s suite features California-style closets. Front porch for rocking and greeting neighbors and large patio pavers in the back for entertaining. It is a short distance to the YMCA, shopping, restaurants, medical complex and beach. This lovely home is in move-in condition. MLS #55091. $369,000

5217 VILLAGE WAY Amelia Island’s most sought after oceanfront community features two pools, one of which is oceanside, two tennis courts, grounds maintenance, gated with roaming security and private beach access.

The lovingly maintained one owner home features an open floorplan with tile floors and fireplace. An abundance of windows allows you to enjoy the pond and views from all of the rooms. All three bedrooms have full baths. A large patio with gas grill overlooking pond is perfect for entertaining. MLS #55006. $675,000

4727 YACHTSMAN DRIVE Beautiful custom home in exclusive Golfside South. This 4BR/4BA home has an open floorplan and all of the upgrades any discriminating buyer could demand. It features a Gourmet kitchen w/custom maple cabinets, granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Beautifully appointed owners suite. Guest suite provides ADA access to bedroom and private bathroom. Formal living room features coffered and Venetian plaster ceiling. Bonus room with full bath perfect for office or game room. MLS #51804. $699,999

96086 HEATH POINT LANE This spacious 4BR/3BA home with master suite on first floor is nestled among the oaks in Lanceford Creek Plantation, a gated community.

The large living room opens to the sunroom which overlooks the screened-in pool, a spacious backyard with patio, and fruit trees.

The open floorplan and outside living areas have the perfect flow for entertaining. This home features a covered front porch with circular drive and side entry garage. Membership to the Oyster Bay Yacht Club is available. MLS #50371. $495,000

OPEN HOUSE PREMIER PROPERTIES

FOR SALE HIGHLIGHTED BY THE

AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE

5274 VILLAGE WAY $639,000 Fabulous beach house in gated Ocean Village! Just one short block to the beach—you will love this location! This 4 bedroom, 3 bath home has an open floor plan with ten foot ceilings throughout, tiled floors in living areas, large master suite, custom California Closets, large kitchen with abundant counter space, double French doors that open to paver patio that is both lush and private. Professionally decorated, this one-owner home shows like a model. Ocean Village offers two community pools and tennis courts.

2219 LINKSIDE VILLA $497,000 Gorgeous lake and golf views from this three bedroom, three bath villa. One of the most sought-after villa complexes within Amelia Island Plantation, this home is close to the beach, Ocean and Beach Clubs, racquet park, fitness center and bike trails. Inside the home you will find a large living area with amazing natural light, upgraded kitchen, enclosed porch, and terrace off of living room to enjoy the views. The upstairs master suite offers a large private balcony with exquisite lake views. Perfect for a primary residence or second home.

INTRACOASTAL CHARMER Extraordinary water views, extraordinary home on the Intracoastal Waterway on south Amelia Island. Light, open floorplan, high soaring ceilings and water views from nearly every room of this 4 bedroom, 4 bath, 3,600 square foot residence.

Delight in the nature views from the rear paved decks, the screened rear porch, upper owner’s suite deck and spacious front porch overlooking monumental oaks and lush landscape. Completely remodeled in 2003, this home, on .48 acre, offers two owner’s suites, separate den/office, gas fireplace and updated kitchen with maple cabinets, double ovens, double sinks, granite counters, and breakfast bar.

Located in a gated community just minutes to the ocean, shopping, restaurants and historic downtown Fernandina Beach. Offered at $849,000.

Susan Gibson® REALTOR

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

www.troxelteam.com

Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty Mobile: (904) 556-8471 5472 First Coast Highway, Suite 1 Amelia Island, FL 32034 Susan@ChaplinWilliams.com

Chaplin Williams Realty

©2011 An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate AfÀliate, Inc., a Prudential Financial Company.

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

island entertaining

sharing the champagne Don’t wait for New Year’s Eve to enjoy a great glass of bubbly.

BY BOB MONTGOMERY

A

long with our traditional family celebrations, the holidays bring several things to mind: eating some great meals, attending fun parties, and enjoying the wines that go along with these festive occasions. If you’re having a cocktail party or an open house, what could be better than a couple of bottles of chilled bubbly?

Officially, to be called “champagne,” the French would tell you that the wine has to come from the Champagne region of France. But here in the United States, most people refer to any sparkling wine as “champagne,” and, believe me, there are no French police ready to haul you away for doing so. On the bottle, however, look for the designation “sparkling wines” coming from producers in California, Oregon, New Mexico, Virginia, New York, and other U.S. states. When making your selection, remember that “Brut” on the label means the wine is “dry,” “Extra Dry” means “slightly sweeter,” and “Demi Sec” means “even sweeter.”

Most champagne is made from three different grapes: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. These are blended, and then a secondary fermentation takes place, usually in the bottle, and that’s what makes the wine bubbly. If you see “Blanc de Blanc” on the bottle, this means the champagne is 100 percent Chardonnay. A Blanc de Noir is 100 percent Pinot Noir or Pinot Meunier, or a blend of both. All are excellent and worth tasting. There are also Rosé champagnes, slightly pink and very tasty. Don’t be fooled by the color, however. Pink doesn’t mean they are sweet. In fact, most are Brut.

A lot of people think that you have to spend big bucks to purchase good sparkling wine. This is simply not true. There are many excellent domestic sparklers for under $30. Look for Argyle from Oregon, or Schramsberg, J. Roederer Estate, and Domain Chandon, all from California. Moet Chandon

and Verve Clicquot both have very reasonably priced lower tiered bottles, as well as some very expensive bottles, like Dom Perignon and La Grande Dame.

Try a cava from Spain, perhaps Kila, for under $10.

Prosecco from Italy is lovely. Look for names like Lamarca or Bosco del Merlo. If you’re making Mimosas or a champagne punch, choose these less expensive sparklers. Your cocktail will taste every bit as good.

Champagne can be enjoyed before, during, and after almost any dinner menu. It would be great on your holiday table with turkey. On a recent trip to Napa, the manager of the tasting room at one of our favorite wineries had a surprising recommendation. When we told him we would be having dinner at a restaurant famous for its fried chicken, he asked: “Do you know the best wine to drink with fried chicken?” After I pleaded my ignorance, he responded: “Champagne!” We tried it that evening, and, well, it was simply outstanding! This is a wine for all occasions, so don’t be afraid to try it with any number of foods. Keep a supply chilled in the fridge; it won’t go bad. You can get out a bottle when friends drop in, or bring one to a party as a hostess gift. Don’t wait until New Year’s Eve to enjoy some sparkling wine; you won’t be sorry!

Bob Montgomery is the wine consultant for Amelia Liquors North (next to Publix.) He conducts free wine tastings every Friday night from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Bob and his wife, Patti, live on Amelia Island.

60 AMELIA ISLANDER MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2011

www.AmeliaIslander.com

Quality Health Care Close to Home When you’re looking for quality health care services, finding them close to home is not just comforting, it’s convenient too. That’s why Southeast Georgia Health System offers a wide array of specialty practices right here in our community.

Camden Family Medicine Center- 912-882-1909 Southeast Georgia Physician Associates: Camden General Surgery- 912-576-6340 Camden Pediatrics- 912-673-8000 Ear, Nose & Throat- 912-576-6434 Gastroenterology- 912-576-6434 Hematology & Oncology- 912-261-0080 Internal Medicine- 912-882-6767 Radiation Oncology- 912-466-5100 Summit Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Surgery- 912-576-6355 For more information about these services, please visit sghs.org.

These practices are strategic affiliates of Southeast Georgia Health System. © 2011 SGHS

9/2011

One more reason to choose our outstanding community: Our outstanding community hospital

Baptist Medical Center Nassau 24-hour full-service Emergency Center Accredited Chest Pain Center Spacious new private suites for every inpatient Electronic medical records and digital diagnostics MagnetTM recognition by American Nurses Association Friendly, compassionate service Part of Baptist Health, Northeast Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award-winning, not-for-profit health system

1250 South 18th Street â&#x20AC;˘ Fernandina Beach 904.321.3500 e-baptisthealth.com/Nassau