e f i L y t Old Ci YLE MAGAZINE ST FE LI & E UR LT CU R IE EM PR S E’ IN ST. AUGUST
s n o c a e B g n i n i h S
Mar. 2015
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OLDCITYLIFE.COM
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
Volume 9
|
Issue 3
|
2015
Old City Life Castaway Publishing, Inc PO Box 35 St. Augustine, FL 32085 904.461.6773 OCL@castawaypublishing.com Lura Readle Scarpitti
Managing Editor editor@castawaypublishing.com 904-325-5930
Brian Hornung
Contributing Designer brian@rockitinteractive.com
Diana L. Garber
Ad Sales Director oclads@castawaypublishing.com 904-679-1550
LeeAnn Kendall
Advertising Sales • Public Relations ads@castawaypublishing.com 904-501-3917
Distribution
Warren Macbeth Christianne Macbeth Publication Distribution Service Dominion Distribution
Old City Life Magazine publishes 11 issues annually subscription $19.95 | 12 issues
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Text copyright © 2015 Photography © 2015 Introduction © 2006 Locally Independently Owned and Operated
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without permission in writing from the publisher. All material is compiled from sources believed to be reliable, published without responsibility for errors or omissions. Castaway Publishing, Inc. assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photos.
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
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IN THIS ISSUE:
ON THE COVER: 20+ adventurous area women braved temps in the mid-40s and climbed 219 steps up to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse to make a point-women ROCK! Thankfully, there were no cases of hypothermia reported and, in fact, a few new friendships were formed, adding the warmth felt by all at the shoot. A special shout out to Colleen Messner, who came to support our sunrise shoot (even though she kept her feet firmly planted on the ground). Photo by Chad Light
FEATURES: 13 HEAVEN ON A HOG The Phenonmenon of Bike Week
19 THE MUSIC OF STEPHEN ANDREWS He’s All About that Bass
24 ST. AUGUSTINE ALLIGATOR FARM The Attraction with Bite
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
31 WONDER WOMEN Need We Say More?
48 ST AUGUSTINE CAMERA CLUB The Magic of Seven
65 ANASTASIA BOULEVARD Shopping the Oldest City by Sections
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53
FOOD & DRINK WINE 79 RECIPE 80 MIXOLOGY 82
CULTURE MUSIC 19 SHOPPING 65
AROUND TOWN
SECTIONS:
FROM OUR MAYOR 10 GIVING/EVENT 47 DOWNTOWN 53
19
BUSINESS FINANCE 58
LIVING CALENDAR 72 BEAUTY 89 WORSHIP 74 CUP O’ JOE 96 FITNESS 57
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COMMUNITY GIVING 60 COMPASSION 62 ROMANCE 68 WORSHIP 74 ON THE TOWN 90
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
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FROM THE EDITOR
Dear Readers,
This month, we decide to right that wrong.
even going to hazard a guess as to when in
Contained in these pages are profiles of
a person’s life cycle that occurs, but I can
6 awesome residents of the Old City of
that makes me both happy and sad at the
pretty much assume why…there are a lot of
different ages, different professions, different
same time. If you haven’t seen it, simply
societal messages out there that teach just
backgrounds-all of whom make a mark in
put, they pointed a camera at adults, and
that-that we women are the weaker sex who
this community on a daily basis. I hate that
a few kids and ask them to “run like a girl;”
need sheltering and protecting. It’s our job to
it’s only 6-it should be 600…6000 even,
“throw like a girl;” “fight like a girl.” Every
look pretty and stand by idly. Although there
but we had to draw the line somewhere-no
one, women too, do this ultra-weak, “girly”
are marketing trends veering away from this,
way we can have a 6000 page magazine…is
(for lack of a better word) imitation of these
it’s still very prevalent in our world.
there? :~)
There’s a campaign out called #LikeAGirl
actions.
Well, I’m here to tell you that from my
March is Women’s History Month, so
experience, this “weak” image is far from
running these profiles was a no-brainer (and
thing…and the result is vastly different
the truth. Not a single woman that I come
I’ll let you in on a secret-every March from
from the adults. The throws are strong, the
into contact with on a regular basis falls into
now on we’ll use the issue to shine the light
running looks like they’re sprinting for the
this “girly” mode-not ONE. Every single one
on some of the amazing area women-so stay
finish line, and I wouldn’t want to connect
is strong, independent, a force-of-nature in
tuned).
with one of those punches-ouch!
her own right, in her own way. And I see this
So, after reading about these outstanding
Not to get up on a soapbox but I have to
multiplied over and over and over in this city.
women, when someone points at camera at
ask, “When, in the course of our life, do we
So many of our strong women go about their
you and says “Run like a girl,” it’s a good bet
warp from thinking of doing anything like a
lives without the spotlight shone on them
that’ll you put the afterburners on and leave
girl as strong and powerful to weak, frail and
that they deserve…and they’re not out there
them in the dust…because that’s what a girl
vulnerable? How does that happen?”
expecting it either.
would do.
Then, they ask young girls to do the same
8
Lacking a sociology degree, I am not
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
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AROU N DTOW N | D OWN TOW N
FROM OUR MAYOR
SUCCESS— HERE’S MY DEFINITION BY MAYOR NANCY SHAVER
“Live your life so that your children can
was just in California visiting my son and his
who taught me along the way, colleagues
tell their children that you not only stood for
family, in their new home. Seeing my “baby
who pitch in generously, and clients who
something wonderful—you acted on it.” That
boy” all grown up with his own family was
are true partners. And I can’t leave out my
has been both an aspiration and a guide for
a gift. My grandson refused to call me “The
parents who taught me values that shaped
me.
Honorable Nanni” (which was my way of
my life, and gave me (at some sacrifice) the
Today, “success” often seems to mean
teasing him) and didn’t want me to leave.
gift of a wonderful education.
achieving some level of material success, or
And I didn’t either. That’s “sweet success”
career achievement, or public recognition.
to me.
As Andy Warhol said (before the internet),
10
And finally, success is being a good neighbor, and contributing to the
Beyond family, there is work. Whether
community. We are lucky to live in a town,
“Everyone will be world famous for 15
it is in the home (and there are a lot more
where every day we see organizations and
minutes”—and now that might be 15
stay at home Dads these days, too) bringing
people lending a helping hand whether to
seconds.
the best you can to your work everyday is
our homeless neighbors; or to an historic
A successful life has a lot more to it.
the mark of success. My career has given
building that needs repair; or to a beach or a
I’ve often said that my kids are the best
me the opportunity to do what I like best,
park that needs cleaning up. Or participating
work I’ve ever done, and that continues
solving problems and helping businesses and
in our 450th celebration.
to be true. The effort, love, and sacrifice
the people who work in them thrive. But I
It’s an honor for me to be able to serve
willingly put into raising children is truly its
remember every day, that the results aren’t
our city, and I am grateful to be a part of our
own reward (and oh, yes—a challenge). I
“my” success—it’s the sum total of bosses
collective success.
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
11
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
NO CHARGE FOR INITIAL CONSULTATION
Joe Boles Attorney at Law Chairman, Council on Aging
19 RIBERIA STREET • ST. AUGUSTINE
904-824-4278
get from the moment you walk through
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the front door.
work and accommodate any type of
The parts department offers a large
problem that may arise with your vehicle in
selection of parts and accessories for
an efficient, precise, and timely manner. By
your vehicle at the best prices around,
offering free pickup and delivery, they have
guaranteed. If the folks at PURE
set themselves apart from the competition.
POWERSPORTS don’t have what you
The phrase “Shop Local” applies to the
are looking for in stock, they can almost
big boys toys too. Manny’s philosophy is
always order it in next day for you at no
to provide the customer with top notch
additional cost. In addition to parts and
customer service, focusing on building
accessories, PURE POWERSPORTS can
relationships with the customer, not just
assist you with anything from custom paint
making a sale. If you take one look at
to all out race modifications. These guys
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The Annual Bike Week Exodus BY FOND KISER
It’s a pretty good bet that the appeal of
race course took place on a 3.2 mile
high sand bank awaited riders as they
the ocean, beach, warm winter days and
beach and road course, located south
raced on the hard sands of the beach.
the first motorcycle race is what destined
of Daytona Beach. It ran approximately
As you would imagine, with the first part
Daytona to become the uncontested
one and a half miles north on the beach,
starting on the beach, starting times for
home of Bike Week. It originally started
through a 1/4 mile turn where the sand
these races were dictated by the tides.
as the Daytona 200 motorcycle race, also
was banked, and then onto the paved,
The first winner, Ed Kretz of Monterey
called the “Handlebar Derby,” on January
public roadway portion for the trip south.
Park, CA, won riding an American-made
24, 1937. The course for the very first
Coming back on the final turn, another
Indian motorcycle averaging 73.34 mph.
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
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World War II forced the races to
of thousands of visitors annually and
pumping millions into the local economy.
stop from 1942 to 1947 but when they
is enjoyed by motorcycle enthusiasts
Every convenience store, grocery chain,
resumed, they gained in popularity.
worldwide.
and souvenir shop welcomes these road
Racing was then promoted by Bill France,
Historically, about 500,000 people
warriors with open arms.
co-founder of NASCAR and The Daytona
are drawn to Bike Week each year,
International Speedway. During the
giving it incredible profit power. Visiting
Chamber of Commerce says, “In our
years off however, an unofficial event
bikers contribute significantly to the area
county alone the estimate reaches well
was still taking place commonly called
economy. While a lot of area businesses
into the $300 million mark. We know that
“Bike Week”, which has transformed
benefit, it’s the hotels, restaurants and
this is even larger when you add in the
over the years into the 10-day festival
attractions that really reap the lion’s share
other counties who have contacted us to
which expands throughout Volusia and its
of the economic rewards.
let us know that their rooms fill up for the
surrounding counties, including St. Johns. Bike Week now welcomes hundreds
A significant portion of that money rolls up A1A to St. Augustine. These
Janet Kersey of the Daytona Beach
event as well.” With that type of spending going on,
motorcyclists spend their money
it’s obvious that Bike Week has evolved
throughout the city, going to the
into something very different from what
attractions; hitting St. George Street;
it was when it started. The stereotypical
visiting every shop and venue; and
“Hell’s Angels” image of bikers is far from
PHOTO: COURTESY OF HALIFAX HISTORICAL SOCIETY & MUSEUM
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
“2016 will be the 75th Anniversary of Bike Week so that should be huge!” the reality of the contemporary Bike Week. The event caters to a wide demographic of people. Not only is it becoming more familyfriendly, but it’s more diverse as well. Yet despite the changing demographics, there is still the need to keep up that wild biker look. Leather, denim, and t-shirts still struggle to restrain many a bulging midsection as riders show off their “hog” and partake in the loud pipes, beer drinking, and pretend to live the legend of biker lore. The simple fact is that behind that ‘’Easy Rider’’ appearance, today’s typical biker, in fact, is more likely a white-collar executive.
OVER THE YEARS A BIKE RACE HAS MORPHED INTO A CULTURAL EVENT
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
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Middle-aged and older riders
Mr. Fix It - Ancient City Cycles
have long been the mainstay of the
“If it had an engine on it, he’s been riding
74-year-old event and comprise
since he was 5 and fixing them since he
the event’s largest demographic.
was 8.” She should know; she’s his mother.
The average age of that group is 57, which is apparent by just looking around. Not only is there a lot of gray hair and expanded midsections
Mary Greavu and her son, Russ Greavu, the mechanic, opened Ancient City Cycles a year ago. She proudly brags about him and the fact that he can fix anything. “There’s nothing he can’t fix, she says. People come from all over
on display, there’s a lot of Aleve and
because of his reputation. Right now we have
Tums being handed out for free.
two bikes here from Georgia.”
It’s a good possibility that, in the not-too-distant future, many of these motorcyclists may be unable
For Bike week, (March 5th - 15th) they’ll
“We’re here for our customers,” Mary says. “St. Augustine’s been very good to us and we’re here to take care of the visitors and the people who live here.” If you’re looking for a bike, they carry everything form Harleys to Hondas, trikes and ATVs. Go see Mary & Russ Greavu at Ancient City Cycles, 239 San Marco Avenue in the historic Coca Cola Building . www.AncientCityCycles.com
be running three trailers to help out stranded and broken down riders from 9a.m.-9p.m.
to attend due to health problems or financial reasons. The begs the question, “Are there enough younger bikers to replace them?” When asked if she sees a difference in attendance, Mandy Rossmeyer of Bruce Rossmeyer Harley-Davidson says “I think we do, especially when the winters
“Bike Week has always meant different
people united through the common passion of
things to different people and has changed
riding. Our four locations in North East Florida
considerably over the years. The event started
gives us a unique opportunity to help facilitate
its life as a small racing event and has now
people’s journey/pilgrimage to Daytona Bike
grown into a party that stretches from Daytona
Week. This has been our honor and privilege
up to St. Augustine and over to Orlando. For
for over 50 years and it’s our plan to serve our
are bad up north and of course
me this event is about camaraderie and the
riding community for at least 50 more.”
attendance is affected by the state
bonds that are formed between different
- Mark Adamec, Adamec Harley Davidson
of the economy around the country. Motorcycle rallies also tend to see an increase in attendance during Anniversary years. 2016 will be the 75th Anniversary of Bike Week so that event should be huge!”
PHOTO: COURTESY OF ADAMEC FAMILY
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
Flagler Hospital Anderson-Gibbs Bldg 301 Health Park Blvd. Suite 219 St. Augustine
Davis Dhas, MD Dr. Dhas is Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and has been in practice in St. Augustine since 2009.
Reda Alami, MD Dr. Alami is Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and has recently been named a “Top Doc” in Jacksonville and St.Augustine.
Gloria Lelaidier, ARNP Certified Nurse Midwife, has her Masters in Midwifery from the University of Florida and has brought more than 2000 St. Johns residents into this world.
Anah Marks, ARNP
Anah is a graduate of Florida State University. She has been in obstetrical nursing since 1997, and a NurseMidwife since 2001. Anah is knowledgeable, caring and loves the relationships that she builds with her patients over years of care.
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61 Cordova Street • St. Augustine, FL 32084 www.thompsonbaker.com
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
HOME TOWN BOY TAKES THE JOURNEY
THAT NEVER ENDS. BY FOND KISER
PHOTOS BY BOB STESHETZ & TUCKER JOENZ
Some people think it’s foolish to chase a dream. Others wish they had. Some stick their toe in the water only to pull it out as soon as the water gets a wee bit warm. Others continue on their dream-chasing journey but never go all in. Soon, their dream dies on the vine and becomes a bitter memory of what could’ve been. Others…press on. The dream becomes a passion. It becomes life itself. It becomes the blessing and the curse. The dream becomes the journey that never ends.
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
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from whomever he could, and is thankful for the people that helped him along the way. Andrews says, “It’s quite a bit of a challenge. It’s one that doesn’t necessarily have a first place or any of that like on TV. I just keep on challenging myself to get to the next level. It’s a never-ending challenge trying to learn all there is to know about the instrument and music.” Throughout his journey as a professional musician he’s experienced a lot of phases in his career. Starting out in the local pubs in St. Augustine, to Los Angeles, CA. (he says he went there because of a girl), to performing at billionaire Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen’s birthday house party along side Tony Levin, bassist for Peter Gabriel and Paul Simon, to his current gig with Americana band “Rose’s Pawn Shop.” They’ve recently released their third album, entitled “Gravity Well,” which has Twenty years ago (when I previously lived
Graves.” Our bassist, Chris McDowell, would
gotten a great review and video posted by
in St. Augustine), I had the pleasure and honor
graciously hand over low-end responsibilities
Rolling Stone Magazine. They’ve toured the
to sit down with then 14-year old Stephen
to Andrews and we’d help him cut his teeth
United States and Europe gaining momentum
Andrews and give him his very first bass
on stage performing a few numbers with a
and have been submitted for three Grammy
guitar lessons. During the first lesson, the
live band.
Award nominations.
young Andrews looked at me with serious
I interviewed Andrews recently on the
“It’s been slow and steady, maybe a little
intent and said, “Fond, I want to play this
St. Augustine Plaza where he performed his
too slow at times,” Andrews says, “…but,
bass as good as you play the guitar.” I looked
very first show with us. He was fifteen at the
things just keep getting bigger and bigger
him square in the eye and replied, “Stephen,
time. He remembered the show with a laugh
with each step of the way. As long as you
there’s a secret to that.” He leaned in a little
by recalling, “Yeah, when I was done I walked
keep trying to moving forward you’ll end up
further. “Stephen,” I said. “...you know when
off stage with my bass still plugged in.” Step
in a good place. That applies to more than just
you meet a cute girl at school and you want
two of his journey put him on-stage and then
a music career.” Andrews has also renovated
to get to know her and learn what she’s
stumbling off.
two warehouse spaces in L.A. two residential
Two years later he performed a show
lofts, converted a shuttle van into a tour bus,
at the plaza gazebo with the St. Augustine
owns and works on vintage Harley-Davidsons
High School Jazz Band in preparation for a
and his 1952 Willys Military Jeep. He’s an
her and…mess with her. You spend time
European tour. He was hooked. So, step three
avid surfer and achieved the lofty honor of
with that bass and mess with it to learn all
of his journey lead him beyond his native soil
Eagle Scout.
there is to know about it and you’re going
and convinced him music was his calling.
all about, what do you do?” He answered, “Spend time with her?” “BINGO!” I exclaimed. “Spend time with
to build a great relationship with her.” The
He says playing music professionally wasn’t
The last time I heard Stephen Andrews’ current band live was last year at the Old
secret is that simple. And so, with practice
his goal in the beginning. But “...I was driving
Settler’s Music Festival in Austin, TX. His
and perseverance, the first step of Stephen’s
home from the airport with my dad when I
father Randy and I came out and Andrews
journey began.
heard Led Zeppelin’s John Paul Jones and I
fixed us both up with full access passes. We stood there like two proud fathers, one
Andrews’ father Randy, a St. Augustine
decided I wanted to play bass.” A few years
native, and I performed together back then
later, his uncle bought him one. He took it
giving birth to a very fine son, and the other
in the three-piece power Blues band “Jocko
pretty seriously. Learned as much as he could
giving birth to one very fine bassist.
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
New 2015 Weekly Lineup Monday – MASH LAB Live Music & DJ
9 pm – Close
Tuesday – Trivia Live 80’s & 90’s Trivia
7:30 – 9:30 pm
Wednesday – SpeakEasy Live Music with Local Acoustic Musicians $5 Crown & Kettle One
Thursday – Karaoke Party Contest 02/05 -3/26 $600 in Cash Prizes
Friday & Saturday – Live Bands 9 – 1 am Visit mardibar.com for Weekly Band Schedule
Sunday - Funday Bikini Bike & Car Wash
Kitchen Open Til Midnight
123 San Marco Ave. 904-823-8806 Mardibar.com 22
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
23
HA NG I N’ O U T
PAST PRESENT & FUTURE
BY LAURA SMITH PHOTOS COURTESY OF ST. AUGUSTINE ALLIGATOR FARM
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
“The St. Augustine Alligator Farm is a unique place, a survivor, just like its inhabitants“
Cross the Bridge of Lions and head east. Follow the gentle curve of Florida A1A until the road points you due south, and that’s when you’ll see it: a familiar Spanish-inspired building, shaded in a canopy of tropical foliage and heralded with a whipping line of bright crimson and gold flags. It’s the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park—an unmistakable Old City landmark, and since 1893, one of Florida’s most talked-about and beloved attractions. Most locals—and millions of visitors—have a story or a favorite memory of the St. Augustine Alligator Farm. It’s been a part of our community’s culture for as long as downtown residents and tourists have pushed south into Anastasia Island. And while the zoo’s history is impressive, even more impressive is its plan for remaining a vibrant part of St. Augustine and Northeast Florida.
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
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A Wild Past In the late nineteenth century, George Reddington and Felix Fire began collecting alligators on Anastasia Island. They founded the St. Augustine Alligator Farm in south St. Augustine Beach, about two miles from its current home, in 1893. The Alligator Farm flourished for more than two decades at its original location. It soon earned a reputation as “the world’s largest alligator farm” and featured hundreds of alligators, an exciting collection of Florida’s venomous snakes, and other wild animals. Challenges soon entered the picture: the Alligator Farm survived the destructive nor’easter of 1920 and a series of devastating fires before its purchase in 1937 by W.I. Drysdale and F. Charles Usina. In addition to constructing the now-famous building still used today as the zoo’s main facility, Drysdale and Usina also began to grow and improve the exhibits,
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
and soon the attraction gained a new reputation as more than just an alligator exhibition. New species began making the zoo their home: ostriches, crocodiles, Galapagos tortoises, monkeys, and birds, birds, and more birds.
A Zoo for Today In its more modern history, the Alligator Farm has adopted a mission of wildlife research and conservation. In 1989, it won accreditation by The American Association of Zoos and Aquariums—a watershed moment in the park’s history which was overseen by owner David Drysdale, whose father W. I. Drysdale’s early vision put the park on a path to becoming a major attraction and a headquarters for scientific study. Jim Darlington, Curator of Reptiles, is one of the Alligator Farm’s longest-tenured employees. He started at the zoo in August 1992, and since that time he’s witnessed some of the most exciting and expansive developments in the zoo’s long history. “Put it this way,” he says, laughing, “back then we were all on double-duty—you might be a maintenance man one minute, an alligator feeder the next. We were a much smaller staff with a much smaller collection of animals. It’s incredible, truly, what the zoo has become in the years that I’ve been here.” One of the biggest changes Darlington witnessed was an evolution in the way the park’s trainers interact with animals and how that process is portrayed to visitors. In 1992, the park featured a large arena for “alligator wrestling.” At these shows, Darlington remembers, spectators watched as trainers engaged with alligators: handling them, moving them, sometimes even holding their mouths open. “It wasn’t exactly ‘wrestling,’” Darlington says, “it was more like a hands-on display of the animal’s body and behaviors. But it looked exciting, and there was an element of danger. It was a satisfying show for spectators.” Shortly thereafter, the practice of alligator wrestling at the park was stopped. “The alligators were never being fought, the way the term ‘wrestling’ implies,” said Darlington. “We didn’t ever flip the alligators over or physically dominate them; we really simply moved them around in their habitats so that people could see them better. Still, the whole notion of the show was presenting a ‘man vs. beast’ concept that we didn’t feel was at all representative of our mission.” And there was another reason to retire the alligator wrestling shows: in 1993, the Alligator Farm absorbed the area formerly used for wrestling in order to create its largest
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
27
and most ambitious exhibit to date: Land of Crocodiles. This was another important milestone in the zoo’s history—with the construction of this exhibit, the St. Augustine Alligator Farm became—and remains—the only facility in the world exhibiting living specimens of all species of crocodilians.
Branch Manager/Financial Advisor
An Exciting Future Unlike in Darlington’s early days of small crews caring for limited exhibits, today the staff of The Alligator Farm exceeds fifty, including the carefully-trained professionals who operate Crocodile Crossing, a treetop zip line over live crocs, and Python Challenge, a forty-foot controlled freefall. “The St. Augustine Alligator Farm is a unique place, a survivor, just like its inhabitants,” said John Brueggen, Director and General Manager of The Alligator Farm. “The reason this Florida attraction is still here, when so many others have failed, is because of its owners. David Drysdale continues to invest in this place. He is not a far-removed landlord; he is a creative, ambitious person who wants to see this business thrill visitors long after he is gone. He is concerned with quality and legacy, and it shows everywhere you look. No other place I know does such a great job of combining live animal exhibits with cultural treasures.”
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
WONDER WOMEN BY LURA READLE SCARPITTI
The Super Heros among us don’t wear
They walk around, unassuming, going
capes, or have brightly-colored costumes
about their business just like the rest of
about time to shine a spotlight on a few
with large shiny letters emblazoned on the
us, yet, just like the rest of us, they make
(when in reality, it could be thousands) of
front, or even an array of “superpowers”
a difference each and every day. They are
these stellar individuals who silently power
(at least not in the traditional comic-book
daughters, sisters, mothers, wives; as well as
through this community, quietly making their
genre way) at their command to save all of
lawyers, doctors, writers, business people,
mark and making St. Johns County a better
humanity in one afternoon.
and so on and so on and so on.
place to live.
Here at Old City Life, we thought it was
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“It’s great to be part of such a warm community. I love my job and I love my town; I really feel blessed to have such a wonderful life. “ 32
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
FOCUSING FLAGLER LAURA STEVENSON DUMAS DIRECTOR OF COLLEGE RELATIONS, FLAGLER COLLEGE
BY LAURA SMITH PHOTO BY SARAH WILLIAMSON
Unless she’s winding down from a session
are able to study history, architecture,
of Bikram yoga or relaxing with a good
politics, and environmental science in a
book, it’s unlikely you’ll find Laura Stevenson
living classroom. And the College is also a
Dumas sitting still. The Sarasota native and
contributing factor to what makes
Lincolnville resident is poetry in motion—
St. Augustine such a great place to live. Our
riding her bike to and from work, soaking
alumni who have stayed in the area to open
up the outdoors with her husband James
businesses or teach in the schools have
and their five-year-old son, Finn, or juggling
helped make this the type of community
the diverse tasks associated with her role
we all want to live in. As one member of
as Director of College Relations at Flagler
the Town & Gown Task Force likes to say,
College.
the College offers a vitamin B12 shot of
In the last capacity, Laura is Flagler
culture that residents get to appreciate.”
College’s link to the community. She
She smiles then. “And can you imagine living
oversees opportunities for the College to
in St. Augustine without Flagler College
engage with the city, the county, and the
alumni restaurants like The Floridian,
region, and she’s also an active member of
Crave, the Blue Hen, or Stogies? It seems
the recently-formed Town & Gown Task
unfathomable!”
Force, an initiative launched to develop
Laura is a model of positivity. She’s quick
a greater understanding and working
to laugh and ready to work—qualities that
relationship between the College and the
have earned her success in her professional
community. The Task Force is an important
life and have helped her shape a rewarding
initiative, Laura believes, and one that can
personal and family life as well—all focused
have lasting impact in our community.
around the charms of the Ancient City.
A graduate of Rollins College, she spent
“On the weekends we ride bikes or walk
a semester abroad in Sydney, Australia,
downtown to eat dinner, get popsicles, or
earning some of the global perspective
enjoy one of the many festivals in the city,”
that serves her well today in her ability to
she says. “It’s great to be part of such a
consider diverse points of view and work
warm community. I love my job and I love
toward a common goal.
my town; I really feel blessed to have such a
She’s quick to point out—in the case of
wonderful life. I can’t imagine what it must
St. Augustine and Flagler College—that a
be like to have to commute. I live less than a
common goal is well within reach. “Flagler
mile from my job and my son’s school is two
College is a great institution, partly because
miles from my house. The furthest I really
we are located in such a unique, historic,
have to go is to Publix.
and charming city,” she says. “Our students OLDCITYLIFE.COM
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MANNING BOBBIE MANNING
A CITY
MANAGER, DEVELOPMENT & SUPPORT CITY OF ST. AUGUSTINE PUBLIC WORKS BY LAURA SMITH PHOTO BY SARAH WILLIAMSON
You’ve probably met Bobbie Manning.
After a career in building and
In addition to enjoying the spring listening
It would be hard for most people in
development, Bobbie joined the City staff in
to her husband Jim’s band, Salt Driven Ride,
our community not to, given the active
2010, and in her current role she manages
play around St. Augustine, she’s gearing
commitment this St. Augustine resident has
the development services division and also
up for the 20th Annual Rhythm and Ribs
made to our city since moving here nearly
manages the support staff for City-funded
Festival this April, an event in which she
fifteen years ago. Between her busy role as
projects. “I’ve worked in development in one
takes an active volunteering role. Then,
Manager of the City of St. Augustine Public
facet or another for more than twenty years,
in June, in preparation for taking over the
Work Department’s Development and
and I think I have a good sense of how to
presidency of the St. Augustine Sunshine
Management Support Division, her passion
balance what developers need or want with
Rotary in July, Bobbie will attend a Rotary
for volunteerism, and her love for our
what complies with city standards and what
International Convention in Brazil. “This is
community’s festivals, beaches, and events,
protects our community’s best interests,” she
a really big deal,” she says. “There will be
Bobbie makes her way around St. Augustine
says. “That’s what my department strives
35,000 Rotarians there. I’m very excited.”
with a ceaseless smile and boundless energy.
for.”
It’s difficult to imagine Bobbie didn’t
It’s a demanding position, but she takes
But there’s no doubt Bobbie Manning will also be looking forward to getting back
grow up in St. Augustine, but the Ringling
it in stride. And the secret, Bobbie says, to
to one of her favorite places on earth: her
College of Art & Design graduate is actually
managing her energetic work/life balance
home in the Ancient City. “It’s just such a
a native of Southwest Florida. What brought
is an unerring commitment to her health.
wonderful place to live,” she says. “When I
Bobbie to our community? She laughs at the
About two years ago, she says, she realized
was a child, coming here on vacations, the
memory. “My husband and I were living in
she could either “pay the farmer, or pay the
city had such a romantic, picture-perfect
Gainesville many years ago, and we would
doctor.” That’s when she adopted a strict
appeal to it. I feel very privileged now to be a
drive to St. Augustine almost every weekend
nutritional and exercise plan, based loosely
part of this community and to live and work
to camp and kite-surf. One day we woke up
on vegan principals. Since that time, she’s
here. It’s just as magical as I remember it
and started getting ready to make the drive,
seen her energy level and her sense of
being as a child.”
and we looked at each other and said, ‘Why
wellness skyrocket, and she says she’s never
are we not living in St. Augustine?’ Shortly
looked back.
after that, in 2000, we made it happen.”
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What’s next for Bobbie Manning? Plenty.
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
“One day we woke up and started getting ready to make the drive, and we looked at each other and said, ‘Why are we not living in St. Augustine?”
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“For years, I was trying to figure out how to get an art show back into downtown that would feel like the old art shows we used to have in the Plaza in the ‘80s. “ 36
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
AN IRON IN MANY FIRES NICO HEATHER RECORE ARTIST, PRODUCER Take vitality and vision. Add a diverse skill
BY LAURA SMITH PHOTO BY SARAH WILLIAMSON
did. When she left Boston and returned
to get an art show back into downtown that
set and a passion for making connections
home to the Oldest City in 2004, she was
would feel like the old art shows we used
in the community. The sum total is Nico
armed with a valuable skill set: business
to have in the Plaza in the ‘80s,” she says.
Heather Recore, one of St. Augustine’s most
acumen, creative prowess, and large-scale
“People who have lived here for a long time
talented and energetic business owners and
production experience that has served her
will remember—the square would be full of
arts advocates. Nico, co-owner of the
well on the local scene. She soon found
artists. It was a tight community, a wonderful
St. Augustine Art Glass shop and gallery on
herself lending her producing skills to
feeling. We’re resurrecting that energy
St. George Street, has a hand in so many
some of St. Augustine’s best-loved events,
with the Downtown Bazaar, which is very
of the City’s best-loved art and culture
including Surf Illumination and Beach Blast
exciting.”
initiatives that it’s hard—even for her—to
Off.
begin to describe all the things she does. Along with her mother and brother, Nico owns and operates St. Augustine Art Glass, a local favorite of residents and
“I love to be integrated into the fabric of
Nico Recore is headed into spring and summer, full speed ahead. She’ll be
our community,” she says simply. “It’s what I
producing events, managing the Market,
enjoy doing.”
and overseeing the gallery, plus throwing
One of the initiatives that seems to keep
her hat into the ring with as many volunteer
visitors. Since 1982, when she was still a
her connected to the community the most,
projects as she can fit in. She’s also actively
teenager, Nico has been an integral part of
she says, is her role as market manager for
seeking sponsors for the Downtown Bazaar
the development of the business. But she
the Wednesday Market at the St. Augustine
in order to continue to grow this robust and
had fashion design on her mind, so after
Beach pier.
energetic event. She’s passionate about
high school she headed west and earned
She selects and manages between 60
staying involved in St. Augustine, passionate
a degree from Bauder Fashion College in
and 80 vendors who participate in the
Arlington, Texas. Then followed stints in both
weekly show, which features an array of
Gainesville and Boston, where she honed
produce, prepared foods, local seafood, art,
know there’s something special here. I’ve
her craft as a designer and also began to
crafts, jewelry, and fair trade goods. The
noticed that any time I lived in a place
produce fashion shows. “It dawned on me
Wednesday Market, in turn, has helped
other than St. Augustine, I always felt that
after a while,” she says, laughing, “that I was
Nico network throughout the community
I was somehow not at ease, not entirely
enjoying producing the shows more than
and inspired her to launch one of her latest
comfortable. When I finally moved home
I was enjoying designing the clothes.” She
projects, the Downtown Bazaar, a quarterly
in 2004, that feeling was gone. There’s
leveraged this passion into a new career as a
arts, music, food, and shopping extravaganza
something about being here that tells me
producer of shows and events, usually in the
hosted in the beautiful grounds of the
this is my home”
art and fashion industries.
Colonial Quarter.
And it’s lucky for St. Augustine that she
about celebrating the place she calls home. “I can’t really put my finger on it, but I
“For years, I was trying to figure out how
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STATION TO STATION MELISSA KAUTTU “My job is to manage client expectations…
BY CHRIS BODOR PHOTO BY MELISSA ROBY
strangely enough, when she was a pre-
as opposed to the relaxed lifestyle that we so
You cannot put a price tag on family, you
med student at the University of Florida.
treasure here in Saint Augustine.
cannot put a price tag on friendship, and
“Somehow, at the crazy age of 19, I got it
you cannot put a price tag on community.
stuck in my mind that a woman could not
the local music scene. She grew up playing
Sometimes a phone call is all it takes. People
have a life with a family if she became a
the piano, and picked-up the guitar when
want common sense law.” – Melissa Kauttu,
doctor,” confesses Melissa. So she changed
she moved here. “It created opportunities
Owner and Founder of The Law Station
her major to Nursing and moved to Houston
to connect with other musicians since it
to attend a small Christian college known
traveled easier than the piano,” says Melissa.
On January 1st, attorney Melissa Kauttu,
Over the years, Melissa has been active in
for its strong Nursing program. “After doing
“Incredible local musicians let me jam with
celebrated the one year anniversary of the
my clinical rotation at the medical center
them and then our jams turned into practices
founding of The Law Station, located at 1510
there, watching immature doctors demean
and the next thing I knew I was in a band.
North Ponce De Leon Blvd. The Ancient City
incredibly bright nurses, I counted up my
When I stop and think about it on a personal
is very dear to her. She did not start living full
credits and got the heck of out nursing
level, I would have to say that playing music
time in St. Augustine until 2001, but she is
college to pursue a legal career.”
requires you to be fully present in the
from St. Augustine because her family is from
After graduating from Pepperdine
moment unable to worry about yesterday or
here. “I spent every holiday and every summer
University School of Law in 1989, Melissa
tomorrow. I try to harness that same feeling
here, from the day school got out until the
practiced at the law firm of Risley and
when I am in trial. I choose to accept the
day before it started back.” says Melissa. “My
Associates in Costa Mesa, California,
stress as good stress. I realize I don’t have
grandfather Antonios Sarris’ first built shrimp
representing the business, real estate, estate
control over the process or of the actions of
boats here in about 1918, over off Prawn St.
planning, and probate interests of high net
others. Hence, my complete concentration
(behind Theo’s restaurant on King Street).” In
worth clients in the Southern California area.
is required at all times.” Sadly, as an attorney
the ‘30s, her grandfather moved the boatyard
Melissa took that practice into the law firm
and a busy mother of three (son Matthew, 19
down to Oyster Creek. Her grandmother Xeni
Melissa S. Kauttu, Attorney at Law, in Santa
and daughters Zoe, 16 and Eleni, 14) and now
Xynides raised her five children in the house
Ana, California, and maintained her practice
step-mother of two (Carson, 14 and Hunter,
next to the boatyard.
in Southern California until 2001 before
16-sons from husband Tory Strange) Melissa
relocating here to her family’s hometown.
does not have many opportunities these
“My life was influenced in every positive way by my parents and my family here
Melissa’s full-time move to the Ancient City
days to play music. As far as being a female
in St. Augustine, as well as our life in the
was a homecoming of sorts, after spending so
professional in Saint Johns County, Melissa
Greek Orthodox Church,” says Melissa. “It
many early years visiting relatives. Although
continues to marvel at the level of strength
is impossible to talk about my early years
much had changed, she feels that a sense
and commitment the women she has worked
without taking note of these things. When
of community is still here. “You just have to
with have shown her over the years. “I don’t
we were not with family on or around Oyster
reach out to people and accept when they
mean to demean our male counterparts, who
Creek and at Vaill Point Road, we were at the
reach out to you,” she points-out. “It isn’t like
are amazing, but I think even they know how
beach. My oldest friend Beth Wehking (Parks)
that in a lot of other places I have lived. For
much we carry,” declares Melissa. “As mothers
and I spent countless hours on the beach at
example, in Southern California, many people
and business owners, we have to be on top of
9th and 10th Street and I played Frisbee with
live isolated from any form of community.
our games at all times and we have to create
the big boys. That’s where I caught my first
There is a sense of fear; fear of losing what
and maintain good support systems in the
glimpse of my husband, Tory Strange, playing
you have or not getting what you want.” She
workplace and at home. Not always an easy
Ultimate Frisbee.”
feels that the mentality of keeping up with
challenge, but it takes a constant adjustment
“The Jones” creates a competitive lifestyle,
to our sails.”
Melissa’s girl-power journey started out, 40
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“It’s very exciting to see this much energy—and very challenging to keep it all organized! “
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
LASTING IMPRESSION JENNIFER ZUBERER
COMMUNICATIONS AND RESOURCES MANAGER ST. AUGUSTINE 450TH COMMEMORATION BY LAURA SMITH PHOTO BY SARAH WILLIAMSON
Planning a birthday party is a big task. Planning a birthday party for the Nation’s Oldest City is a gargantuan
college. We decided to give St. Augustine
She also scours the shoreline looking for
a try instead.”
sea-glass, which she uses to make stained
And the rest, as they say, is history.
glass. “I definitely need downtime to
task-but Jennifer Zuberer is up for the
Jennifer signed on with the 450th
regroup,” she said. “And St. Augustine is
job. As Communications and Resources
Commemoration in 2013 and is proud of
the perfect place to unwind.”
Manager for the St. Augustine 450th
the work the team has accomplished to
Commemoration, Jennifer manages a
date. She’s also looking forward to seeing
St. Augustine? The people, she answers
significant portion of a program begun
how St. Augustine will continue to thrive
promptly. “In my work position, I’ve been
in 2012 to gear up for the city’s big day:
even after the big party is over. “One of
able to meet and connect with such
September 8, 2015. Her tasks include
the things this commemoration did was it
amazing people. It’s a close community and
branding, communications, social media,
allowed us to put some things into place
I’ve been fortunate to enjoy connections
and serving as a point of contact for the
that will have lasting impact. We branded
with both visitors and residents through
groups and alliances who want to enjoy
the City of St. Augustine, for example, and
some unique initiatives.” One of the
a piece of the action. “There are more
I’d love to see that continued. We’ve also
projects she oversaw, for example,
than 150 different organizations who
implemented a great deal of educational
called “Ancient City Mosaic,” was an art
want to get involved,” she says. “It’s very
programming and have spread more
installation created through a request
exciting to see this much energy—and very
awareness of what St. Augustine is all
to the community to submit artwork.
challenging to keep it all organized!”
about, so that when people come here
“Our goal was to get 450 canvases or
they find the experience they are looking
more. We hung the canvases in a mosaic
for.”
arrangement, and it was incredible to
A native Floridian, Jennifer brings an intuitive appreciation of the Sunshine State to her job. She grew up in Plantation
But don’t think it’s all nose-to-
What else, to Jennifer, is special about
see how it grew. People came in and, in
but remembers coming to St. Augustine
grindstone for this Florida girl. As hard as
addition to sharing their artwork, they
frequently to visit her grandparents, often
she has worked over the last two years,
shared stories about their connections to
staying in a condo with her family in Vilano
Jennifer has also found time to play.
St. Augustine and why they were inspired
Beach. After earning a degree in public
She’s a big believer, she says, in work-life
by this place to create art. That’s the kind
relations from the University of Florida,
balance. On weekends, when they’re not
of community connection I’ve been able to
Jennifer looked around Gainesville and
visiting with local family, Jennifer and her
enjoy in this role. It’s very gratifying.”
compared notes with her future husband—
husband Daniel, a technician for a dental
and as it turns out, she remembers,
lab in Jacksonville, hike local trails and
“neither of us wanted to go home after
enjoy the beach with their dog, Fender.
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SPEAKING OF
SUCCESS TERI SECREST
SPEAKER, AUTHOR, ENTREPRENEUR BY LAURA SMITH PHOTO BY SARAH WILLIAMSON
St. Augustine has a new face in business
not just entrepreneurship, but around
and leadership. Meet Teri Secrest, a St. Johns
teaching others to be successful—well, I
County resident since January and one of
consider myself very blessed.”
the most passionate, visionary entrepreneurs
Teri could choose anywhere to hang
you’ll ever meet. Identified as one of
her hat. She’s lived in Milan, Paris, and
America’s highest-earning women and the
New York, and has spent time traveling all
owner of four thriving businesses, Teri is
over the world on speaking and teaching
serious about success. But she’s even more
engagements. But after a first-time visit
serious about empowering others to reach
to the Oldest City last October, she made
their highest potential.
an on-the-spot decision to relocate to St.
Teri is an accomplished writer and teacher
Johns County, which she did this past winter,
with a world-class vibe. She has been a
now making her home in a quiet condo
guest on over fifty international radio and
overlooking the ocean in Ponte Vedra Beach.
television shows and is a sought-after
It was the sense of community in
speaker on business and healthy lifestyles.
St. Augustine and its environs, she says, that
She is the author of the business guide
cinched the deal.
“How to be a Stunning Success in Network
“I grew up in a beautiful lake town in the
Marketing” as well as a book on simple,
Midwest called Clear Lake, Iowa,” she says.
elegant entertaining, “Eating Out of Heaven’s
“The town had about six thousand people.
Garden.” She is currently at work on her third
And I think one of the reasons I fell in love
book: “Igniting the Entrepreneur in You.”
with St. Augustine is that fabulous small-
Entrepreneurship is just in Teri’s blood.
town feeling we have here. I absolutely love
When she was five years old, her father
it—to walk down the streets downtown
set Teri and her four sisters to the task of
and see all the love and care that the shop
starting their first business: selling night
owners have in their stores, to enjoy these
crawlers to local fishermen. She laughs at
glorious beaches, and to drive down the
the memory. “I live in entrepreneurship,
street and have people actually wave to each
always have,” she says. “I believe it’s one of
other—it’s a very, very special feeling. And a
the things that make our country great. And
very special place. I’m blessed to be here.”
to have been able to shape my life around
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LITTLE BODIES, BRAVE HEARTS ST. JUDE HOSPITAL BY TAMMY HARROW
Bravery has many faces: the soldiers on the battlefield protecting our freedom, the firemen and policemen in our community risking their lives, keeping us safe. But there’s another side of bravery many don’t see: the everyday heroes-the doctors and nurses, and the children battling for their lives in the war against cancer. I saw it for myself when I had the honor of joining 300 other volunteers from around the country for a three-day volunteer workshop at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis. Each year, 12,000 children are diagnosed with cancer. To put it into perspective, that’s about the entire population of St. Augustine. Each year, these families begin lengthy devastating battles, both mentally and financially just keeping their children alive. To reduce some of this burden, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital treats children from all over the world, shares their lifesaving research with doctors everywhere, and many hospitals, even right here in North Florida
use their protocols for treating patients. One of the greatest features, besides saving the lives of these children is that none of their patient ever receives a bill. Not ever. Our group had it’s own stories of bravery: there was Gayle-a fellow Floridian whose son was a St. Jude patient thirty years ago. He not only survived stage 4 cancer, but went on to become a physician. Another Florida mom, Nancy, paused several times during our hospital tour to tearfully hug doctors who treated her teenage son, also a survivor. Then there’s Mary who was diagnosed and treated at St. Jude with AML, a cancer so deadly she only had a 4% chance of surviving. That was three decades ago. People say it’s humbling to be in the presence of true bravery. Walking the halls of the hospital with these women, watching dozens of tiny patients being transported around in red wagons, seeing their bright eyes and little smiles are enough to make you count your blessings and vow to do anything you can to help join the battle against
childhood cancer. 2nd Annual St. Jude Miracle on the Bayfront Gala The second annual Miracle on the Bayfront Gala to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will be held Thursday, April 23rd from 6-10 p.m. at The White Room. The event will offer a cocktail reception, dinner, entertainment, a silent and a live auction and will be emceed by former Mayor Joe Boles, and Action News meteorologist, Garret Bedenbaugh. Nease High School student and former St. Jude patient, Alexis will be among the guests of honor. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other deadly diseases. And families never receive a bill from St. Jude because all a family should worry about is helping their child live. If you are interested in sponsoring this event, please visit: www. stjude.org/miracleonthebayfront or contact Linda Mignon (904) 669-9169
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THE MAGIC OF SEVEN THE ST. AUGUSTINE CAMERA CLUB BY RICK MCALLISTER
What happens when seven ladies gather around a dining room table? Traditionally, the conversation can range from current world events to details of the latest shoe sale at the outlet mall. But in September of 2010, seven women, all of whom had an interest in photography and who were not satisfied with other options, agreed to start their own camera club. They elected officers, agreed upon a meeting schedule, and gave structure to a meeting agenda. The seven ladies-Sandra Taylor, Catherine Calabria, Louise Walker, Debbie Stuart, Barbara Wells, Cindy Taylor, and Kay Wells-were the founders of the Saint Augustine Camera Club (SACC). Much more than a tea-sipping social group, they were serious about learning the art of photography; how to get away from “auto” settings and use the manual and advanced features available on the rapidly growing inventory of digital SLR cameras, as well as mastering the myriad of post editing software.
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“S TO R M WA R NI NG ” BY J O E C A M PA NE LLI E
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Membership grew steadily and the club now sports about 100 members, with a fairly even split between genders as well as between newbies, amateurs, and professionals. Monthly meetings found members and outside professionals sharing their expertise on a wide range of subjects; electronic flash, macro photography, sports photography, the zone system, printing options, and other related matters. Photographic expeditions were scheduled with professional guidance and instruction including sunrise shoots (when frequently the sun would not cooperate) and wildlife shoots down and along the
T HE FO U ND I NG 7
St. Johns River. Tom Brock, the first male to join the group and owner of Imagine Fine Art Printing on King Street, has shared his vast and extensive background with members, as has Jim Hughes who set up many of the initial photo workshops. The club sets a new theme every month and one of the functions at the meetings is to evaluate and critique themed work submitted by the members. After two years of growth, the SACC had enough members to host an annual juried member show. The venue for the show has changed over the years as the level of participation has grown. This year’s show will be at the St. John’s County Administration Building rotunda. Members of the group continue to receive special awards
C LYD E B U TC HE R S I G NI NG B O O K S B E FO R E HI S PRE SE N TATI ON
in the field of photography. Club President Byron Capo recently was awarded “Best of Show” at the St. Augustine Art Association, and Joe Campanelli was named “Diamond Photographer of the Year” by the Professional Photographers of America’s 2014 International Photographic Competition. Perhaps highlighting this year’s club events was the sponsorship of “An Evening With Clyde:” a presentation by world renowned photographer Clyde Butcher on February 5th at the Whitney Auditorium in Marineland. Butcher is famous for his extraordinary black and white images of the Florida wilderness, particularly of the Everglades. Often compared to Ansel Adams, he uses a variety of large format view cameras. As a part of his bonding with the environment, he carries these heavy and bulky cameras through the swamp
C LU B P R E S I D E NT BYRO N C A P O
and vegetation to get the brilliant shots that he has become synonymous with. As you might also expect, Butcher is an ardent conservationist and spokesperson for this fragile and diverse ecosystem. The event sold out and included a book signing by the special guest. The Saint Augustine Camera Club meets the 3rd Thursday of every month at 6p.m. at Watson Realty on Highway A1A South on Anastasia Island. Additional information may be obtained from their web site at www.saintaugustinecameraclub.com.
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
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52
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
AROU ND TOW N | D OWNTOWN
AROUND TOWN
GRANADA STREET ROOTS
A.H. “Gus” Craig III never knew his
It started with the railroad.
grandfather, Augustus Hedrick Craig, founder of the 100-year-old family business
In 1911, Augustus moved with
“He’d been a big supporter of many local causes and organizations”
that he today owns and manages, but
his brother from their hometown of
his grandfather’s resonance colors every
Durham, N.C., to St. Augustine to work
aspect of Gus’ life -- both professionally and
for the Florida East Coast Railroad
Funeral Home, which had been in operation
personally.
Company, which was founded by Henry
since 1899 on St. George Street. He soon
Flagler. In 1914, Augustus became a
became a partner, and the name was
him,” Gus, 63, says. “He passed away about
deputy marshal for the St. Augustine Police
changed to L.F. Sanchez & Craig Funeral
eight years before I was born. But I certainly
Department.
Directors. Eventually, Augustus bought
“I wish I’d had the privilege of knowing
spent a lot of time with my grandmother,
But his career in law enforcement was not
and she told me plenty of stories about him.
to last. By the following year, he found his
He was quite a go-getter and well loved by
calling: the funeral business.
the community.”
He took a job in 1915 at L.F. Sanchez
Sanchez out altogether and the name was changed once again to Craig Funeral Home. In 1934, the business was relocated to 20 Granada Street, on the site where
LOOKING BACK ON
THE GUS CRAIG STORY
FOUR GENERATIONS BY OCL STAFF
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
53
FAMILY TRADTION
Bambo lived above the funeral home on Granada Street until her death in 1980. The property was sold to Flagler College in the early 1980s and the business moved to its present location at 1475 Old Dixie Highway. “I never actually lived full-time in that house on Granada Street,” Gus says. “We lived over on the island, but I spent many a weekend up there with my grandmother. I guess we all kind of grew up in it.” Gus, who graduated from St. Augustine Flagler College’s Lewis Auditorium sits today. Augustus and his wife, Willie Lee “Bambo” Craig, raised their children there.
with the funeral home’s daily operations. “My dad knew he had to help my
High School, says growing up around a funeral home may have been different than
grandmother, and he became the leader of
what most kids experienced, but it wasn’t a
“In those days, of course, the funeral
the family,” Gus recalls. “Everyone looked up
big deal to him.
home was located on the first floor of the
to him. Like his father, he was a mentor and
building and the family lived upstairs,” Gus
lifelong friend to many people in town. A
anything particularly odd about running
recalls. “My father, A.H. “Gus” Craig Jr., grew
lot of people knew him as ‘Mr. Gus,’ and he
around in a funeral home,” he says. “My
up there, and he began working with my
was remembered as a humble man who truly
grandmother would tell us to hush up and
grandfather at the funeral home when he
cared about others.”
be respectful if we got too rowdy, naturally,
was still a boy.”
“As kids, we didn’t think there was
He said Gus Jr., who played football for
especially if there was a service. But it was
When Augustus died in 1943, Bambo took
Ketterlinus High School and graduated from
just the family business, the way we grew
over the management of the family business,
the University of Florida, was known for his
up.”
along with her sons, including Gus Jr., who
folksy approach, often offering a “Hey darlin’”
“Like my dad, I started working at the
had earlier that year enlisted in the U.S. Navy
and a kiss on the cheek for the women and a
funeral home when I was a boy, too,” Gus
to serve as an aviation cadet during World
hearty handshake for the men he met.
says. “I used to cut the grass, wash the
War II.
“It was a simpler time, of course,” Gus says.
When his father died, Gus Jr. was discharged to return home to help his mother
“And it was a small town, much smaller than it is today.”
ambulances and the hearses, that kind of thing, as a kid.” Many of Gus’s family members worked at the funeral home over the years, but he says
“Everyone looked up to him. Like his father, he was a mentor and lifelong friend to many people in town”
“it wasn’t for everyone.” Several have gone on to work in other industries such as the furniture business and real estate. “They all were exposed to it at one point or another pretty much,” Gus says, “even if it was just being baby-sat up there by my grandmother.” Gus can recall significant events in U.S. history when he was growing up and how they affected life in St. Augustine and the family business.
54
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
AUGUSTUS HEDRICK CRAIG FOUNDER
“I remember the Cuban Missile Crisis being a big deal,” Gus says. “I was only about 10 or 11 years old, but I remember my father being
Jr.’s assistance and advice. And that assistance wasn’t just limited to the funeral business.
very concerned about it. Several people we
“He pretty much had his hand in a lot
knew had built bomb shelters in their back
of things,” Gus recalls. “And he was always
yards. We didn’t have one, though.”
ready to give of himself.”
“Naturally, like the rest of the country, we
Craig’s contributions included American
were all shocked when President Kennedy
Cancer Society, American Red Cross,
was assassinated in November of 1963,” Gus
Salvation Army Advisory Council and the
recalls. “The next year, our little city figured
St. Augustine Rotary Club among a host of
prominently in the Civil Rights movement. I
others.
remember seeing demonstrators marching
In the early 1990s, the Salvation Army
right by the funeral home on Granada. By
created the ‘Gus Craig Award’ to recognize
that time, my father was in the legislature,
longtime residents of the community “who
and there was always a lot of political talk
had contributed to the community and who
around the house.”
upheld the ideals, morals and Christian
Gus Jr. served as a member of the Florida
teachings of the Salvation Army.”
House of Representatives for 18 years,
Fittingly, Gus Jr. was the first recipient.
beginning in 1962. He was also chairman of
These days, Gus is the elder patriarch
the St. Augustine Airport Authority. Some of Gus’s fondest memories of his father involve flying in a small plane. “Oh yeah, I have lots of great memories of flying with my dad when I was a kid,” he says.
running the family business, but his son, Justin Craig, helps out quite a bit, especially on those beautiful temperate days when Gus takes off to play golf. Justin, 35, has been working at the
“He loved to fly. He’d been a Navy aviator,
funeral home since 2001 and is a graduate
but that was kind of cut short by having to
of St. Joseph Academy and Flagler College.
take over the family business. But he always
He also has a degree from the Mortuary
the business. I try to keep that close to me
loved to fly and he took me up many times.
Science Program at Florida Community
when I’m working here and dealing with our
And he loved working on the planes, too.”
College of Jacksonville and is a fully licensed
clients. I’m proud to look back on the past
Funeral Director / Embalmer, making him
100 years of Craig Funeral Home, and to
private pilot license in 1969. He said the
the fourth generation of Craigs in the funeral
share the memories handed down over the
family kept a plane at the St. Augustine
industry to hold a license.
years from my family. And it all began with
Gus got the bug, too, and got his own
Airport for years. When his father passed away in 2008, Gus says “it seemed like the whole town was in mourning.” “He was loved by many folks,” he says.
Although Gus has no immediate plans of
if and when my father steps down, but I like
the future of the family business and his role.
to think I’ll be ready. In the meantime, I’ve
“I’d like to keep it as close as I can to the “They established a good name in this town,
causes and organizations, including Flagler
and I want to continue that level of service.”
huge influence on the community.” Gus said his father even helped others get into the business over the years, and that
learned so much already.”
traditions set up before me,” Justin says.
“He’d been a big supporter of many local College, and Flagler Hospital, and he was a
my great-grandfather. I have big shoes to fill,
retiring, Justin has given a lot of thought to
Justin says he’s glad that he had the opportunity to work with his grandfather, Gus Jr., for a few years. “That was important to me because I saw
other local funeral homes, as well as those in
how those before me did things, how they
nearby communities, were recipients of Gus
talked to people and how they did things in OLDCITYLIFE.COM
55
St. Augustine’s
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GOOD MORNING ST. AUGUSTINE
56
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
LI VI NG | FITNESS
THE CORE
LIVING
GETTING TO Firming up the Midsection BY KIM MILLER
The best combination for leaning up
Medicine Ball Abdominals
the middle is not what you may think.
your body. Your head, chest and torso should all move together. Avoid leaning
Forget all the cardio, unless it is tried
Step 1
your torso in the direction of your
and true short burst interval training and
Starting Position: Stand and hold a
movement. Hold this end position briefly
no longer than 30 minutes. Combining
medicine ball with your feet hip-width
before turning to rotate in the opposite
interval cardio training with smart
apart. Hold the ball relatively close to
direction.
core exercises and eliminating sugary,
your body slightly below chest height
inflammatory, and processed foods will
and position your hands at the midline of
Step 3
put you on the fast track to a lean middle
your body. Engage your abdominal / core
Exercise Variation: To increase the
this spring. The fact is, nothing happens
muscles to brace your torso. Keep the
exercise intensity, fully extend your arms
without a little hard work, persistence
torso upright. Pull your shoulder blades
to shoulder height and keep your arms
and the right exercises and food choices
down and back without arching your low
in this position throughout the exercise.
when it comes to the core.
back.
The longer lever increases the loading on the spine, requiring the core muscles to
Of course, there are many exercises out there to whittle away the waist. Add
Step 2
work harder. Engage your abdominal /
this one to your normal routine to help
Movement: Exhale and slowly rotate
core muscles throughout this exercise to
you achieve your desired effect smartly:
your torso in one direction, keeping your
stabilize and protect your spine.
upper arms at your sides, elbows bent and hands positioned at the midline of
Adding this will have you bikini-ready in no time!
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
57
BUSIN E SS | F IN A N CE
BUSINESS
ARE YOU HAVING FUN ON THE ROLLER-COASTER? BY ALAN BRATIC, CFP® FINANCIAL ADVISOR
A recent trip to the always awesome money/fun making machine called Disney
determine if you are “tall enough” for the
have clearly discovered what your true
market rides?
risk tolerance is) your assets earmarked
World, seemed more familiar to me than usual. After all, I’ve been to the amusement park quite a few times before but this type
for retirement which is 10 years away and
1. Know Your Limits Disney and other amusement parks have
might last 30+ years, might have to be managed differently than your toddler’s
of familiarity for some reason was too
done a pretty good job of posting warnings
education fund. I do realize that this might
eerie. After a few neck breaking rides with
and restrictions on who should and should
be an obvious example but you would be
two teenagers and a 3 year old in tow, I
not get on their rides. Unfortunately,
surprised at how many folks do not have
started to pinpoint the commonality. I have
when in comes to investing, for some
clearly defined investment goals and lump
to admit that I usually enjoy an occasional
folks it is not as easy to determine if they
completely different things into same
thrill seeking roller coaster ride, but
should get on or stay away. In other words,
“pots”. After all, when making dinner, you
spending five working days a week for a
what is your risk tolerance? I talk about
do not cook appetizer, main course, salad
few months in a row riding a “coaster” can
risk tolerance in my articles again and
and dessert in the same pot at the same
quickly lose its luster.
again and yet still I cannot stress enough
time!
You’ve probably guessed by now and
how important it is to know your own
3. Diversify
even experienced the roller coaster I
limits. One of the simplest exercises to
am referring to. After all, the S&P 500
determine your appetite for risk is what
This is another well documented
(an unmanaged index of 500 widely
I call the “sleep factor”. By all means it is
and discussed aspect that often gets
held stocks and generally considered
not scientific nor backed by any economic,
overlooked. The investment universe
representative of the US stock market)
fundamental or technical analysis. Basically,
is ever expanding and traditional asset
has moved up and down similar to a roller
if you are not able to sleep soundly at
classes (stocks, bonds and cash) might
coaster lately. So, what are some steps
night and you spend your days worrying
no longer offer enough diversification for
you
about your portfolio, you should consider
some investors. Large institutions and
reviewing the portfolio and your risk
endowments have been adding alternative
appetite ASAP.
asset classes to diversify their portfolios for
can take to
quite some time. While every asset class
2. Clearly Define Your Goals
might not be available to all investors, more
Whatever you are investing and saving
and more are opening their doors to retail
for should be clearly defined. Whether
investors. As an example, you can review
it is your retirement, a wedding or
Harvard University’s endowment fund at
a new yacht, it should be clearly defined and assets should be
www.hmc.harvard.edu to see how they are diversifying their portfolio. It is important
managed according to the
that you have a customized solution that is
specific need/want/desire.
frequently reviewed and adjusted as your
Over the years I’ve seen many
needs change.
portfolios lumped in and managed the same way even though the funds will be used for different reasons and in different time frames. For instance, (after you
58
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
4. Don’t Chase the Yields Recently, the Federal Reserve (The Fed) indicated it plans to keep “exceptionally low” interest in place for a while as a way to continue to prop up the recovery.
The fed has kept the federal funds rate near zero since late 2008 which in turn has kept rates near lows for most popular interest bearing assets classes such as bank CDs. Real life implications of this trend are very obvious here in Florida and other popular retirement communities. For instance, for generations American’s were planning on saving $1 million by the time they retire and then buying conservative investments such as CDs and, along with Social Security and pension, having enough interest income to live comfortably for the rest of their lives. In other words, according to Bankrate.com, a few years ago, average 3-5 year CDs were paying around 5%-6% annual interest rate which meant $1 million invested in CDs would give you about $50,000-$60,000 in annual income. However, today as those CDs are expiring/coming due, current 3-5 year CDs are paying between 1.5%-2% annual interest. Now, all of a sudden a CD investor is faced with a big cut in interest payments since the same $1 million is paying him/her $15,000-$20,000 in annual interest. So what are those investors to do? They can either: a) live on less, b) start spending their principal or c) look for higher yielding investments. The latter option is becoming very attractive for some folks but it usually comes with additional risk and unexpected roller coaster rides. Higher yielding/paying investments often have higher risk associated with them and might fluctuate in value. Thus, be true to yourself and your goals/needs/risk tolerance before you jump into unfamiliar waters. In closing, for some, roller coasters are a blast and for others they are a torture. There is no right or wrong answer and we are all different and that is what makes us human. The same holds true when it comes to the current market roller coaster. The most important thing is to know whether you are a “Space Mountain” kind of person or a “It’s a Small World” person. By choosing wisely you will have fun no matter what! The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial advisor prior to investing. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not ensure against market risk. Securities and advisory services offered through Cetera Advisors LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity.
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
59
CO M M U N IT Y | G I V I N G
COMMUNITY
A HECK OF A RETURN
Tropical Tennis Tournament
A TRADITION REVIVED BY OCL STAFF
Tennis-the old-fashioned way. The Rotary Club of Coastal St. Johns 3rd Annual Tropical Tennis Tournament brings back a tradition from St. Augustine’s Gilded Era-a time when Henry Flagler’s sole mission was to make St. Augustine the playground for the rich and famous. One way to do that-make sports like golf and tennis, which were wildly growing in popularity at the time, a part of the landscape of the city. This event, not held for generations, was known in the tennis community at the time as the first annual outdoor tournament of the year and took place on the wooden tennis courts (now a parking lot) behind The Alcazar Hotel & Casino. Warm weather and a fancy hotel attracted players from the north and overseas, while the rest of the country was still huddled indoors to escape the cold. Not only the warmth and accommodations attracted tennis players, many participants came for a chance to win the championship trophy—known as “the handsomest tennis prize in the country.” Nearly two feet tall, the sterling silver trophy was cast as a replica of the City Gates. The beautiful trophy displays the name of the last Tropical Champion, Mr. Oliver S. Campbell, who won the trophy back in 1894. The original tournament concluded with dancing and festivities on the wooden tennis courts at the Alcazar. In following years, Henry Flagler evolved the celebration to include a 25-piece orchestra and gala ball 60
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
that was held at the Ponce de Leon Hotel. In
donated to The Rotary Club of Coastal
keeping with the history of the event and as
St. Johns County, which will be distributed
a way to celebrate the 450th Anniversary of
charities within the local community.
the City, this year’s event will also end with a
If you are interested in participating, please
grand gala ball. And, to maintain the historical
reserve your spot by calling 904-686-4217,
spirit of the tournament, players are strongly
emailing
encouraged to dress in traditional tennis
or by visiting our Facebook Page.
courts@HarbourIslandTennis.com
whites or attire from the period, including men in white trousers and women in long
This article made possible because HERBIE
dresses. To heighten the stakes a little, the
WILES INSURANCE cares about our community
players will also be required to use wooden
and non-profits and wants Old City Life readers
racquets; the tennis centre will have some
to know about the great events and resources
wooden racquets available to rent.
available via local non-profit organizations. www.
The tournament will include men’s and women’s singles and doubles events, with all net proceeds from the tournament being
HerbieWiles.com
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
61
COMMUNITY
CO M M U N IT Y | G I V I N G
Student Art Project Celebrates the 450th.
THE SHAPE OF
COMPASSION
BY JOSUÉ A. CRUZ PHOTOS BY DONALD JONES
This spring, compassion in St. John’s
Through the Eyes of Children project. Art
that includes Compassionate St. Augustine,
County will be taking shape in a new way.
teachers at all participating schools will
St. Johns County public schools, the Cyprian
To be a tad more specific, compassion
receive a four foot obelisk, a replica of the 30-
Center for the Expressive Arts and the
will look just like an…obelisk. During the
foot stone obelisk that lives on the Plaza de
Cathedral Arts Project.
months of February and March of this year,
la Constitución, and students will artistically
fourth graders at all St. Johns County Public
interpret the four values that were at the
Compassionate St. Augustine, a local 501(c)3
elementary schools, along with fourth graders
root of the Spanish constitution: Freedom,
non-profit organization, decided to move
in select Montessori, charter and parochial
Democracy, Human Rights and Compassion.
forward with the Obelisk Art 450 project,
schools, are taking part in the Compassion
The project is a community collaboration
which will showcase the art of 25 renowned
The project came to life shortly after
“JUST WAIT ‘TILL WE GET THROUGH WITH THESE!”
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
local, national and international artist by having
crafted a standards based curriculum that
them adorn an 8.5 ft. fiberglass replicas of the
was distributed to all of the participating
at the Cyprian Center for the Expressive
iconic obelisk. As Caren Goldman, a founder
art instructors prior to the arrival of the
Arts and a founder of Compassionate St.
and Executive Director of Compassionate
obelisks. Tim Egnor, Executive Director for
Augustine, assisted in convening the associated
St. Augustine, tells it, a group of core and
Curriculum Services at St. Johns Public Schools,
organizations and recognized the exciting
founding members realized that this was
immediately recognized that a void was being
renewal of the center and the role it plays in the
a chance to affect the lives of children
filled by the project and the role that the
Lincolnville neighborhood. Father Ted reached
throughout the county by having them
community organizations are taking in the
out to the Cathedral Arts Project and facilitated
be a part of the history and celebration
lives of students. Mr. Egnor shares that. “The
the course for the Cathedral Arts Project
of the upcoming 450th celebration of St.
Compassion Through the Eyes of Children
to bring in over 20 years of expertise and
Augustine. Joel Bagnal, local goldsmith and a
obelisk project is an outstanding example
knowledge to the project. While the Cathedral
Compassionate St. Augustine advisory board
of how a community group, Compassionate
Arts project brings plenty of history and
member, ran with the idea and enlisted Bill
St. Augustine, sponsored an idea that allows
expertise, the most important aspect it brings is
Goode, a local boat builder and cabinet maker,
our elementary students to be a part of St.
what lies at the very core of the organization’s
to craft the four foot obelisks out of wood.
Augustine’s 450th celebration.” Tommy
mission: the desire to enrich the quality of life
Once all of the logistics were in place, it was
Bledsoe, St. John’s County Public Schools
in Northeast Florida through unleashing the
time to enhance the educational capacity of
Fine Arts Program Specialist, adds that “…
creative spirit of children. Compassion through
the project.
these partnerships are strongly supported (by
the eyes of children does just that…and the
St. Johns County schools) because they use
results are sure to be spectacular.
Enter Max Vinzant, Art teacher at Otis A. Mason Elementary. Max brought the
art-based education to help our kids keep the
pedagogy to the student obelisk project and
history and art of our city alive.”
Reverend Ted Voorhees, Board President
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
63
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64
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
Old CitySHOPPING Life Spree Island Style
BY DONNA MATTHEWS
PHOTOS BY JUSTIN ITNYRE
Old structures are getting facelifts. New businesses are
Blue Water Jewelers 500 Anastasia Blvd
appearing. Said Robert Nettles of Bluwater Jewelers.
Breitling is one of the last
Anastasia Boulevard is enjoying a bit of a renaissance.
“We have a unique kind of a mosh-posh of buildings and businesses, It’s a unique kind of hipster vibe going on here. We want to keep it and accentuate it.” Vaughan Cochran of Blackfly Restaurant calls the new look and vibe of Anastasia “Art Deco”, and it keeps on coming. We sent Donna Matthews out on an Anastasia Boulevard shopping spree. She brought back a bit of everything. The simple, the unique and the luxurious. You will find something for every budget
remaining independent Swiss watch brands. Meet Colt Lady, a 200m water resistant watch in a stainless steal case with diamond bezel and orange leather strap. $4,740 bluewater-jewelers.com
here, in this 2 mile stretch of classic Florida A1A.
Rochelle’s 104 Anastasia Blvd The Charlotte Top in green paisley with a metal gold ring
Island Bicycle 211 Anastasia Blvd
detail by Julian Chang, a Miami designer, will rock any outdoor
Sunshine is best on a bicycle,
or indoor spring soirée. $124
especially this sunshine yellow single speed beach cruiser from Phat. $369
The perfect patio dress from Analili-a south Florida designer who designs the upbeat prints for her fabrics as well as the clothing itself. $275 rochellesclothing.com
Blue Sky Surf Shop 517 Anastasia Blvd Guilty Pleasure Leopard Tort Sunglasses from D’Blanc. Handcrafted Mazzucchelli acetate frame with 5 barrel optical quality hinges. $159 blueskysurfshop.com
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
65
Surf Station 1020 Anastasia Blvd Street cruising 27” skateboard from Penny Skateboards. The flexible plastic composite makes it weather
Simple Gestures 4 White Street East
resistant. $140 surf-station.com
Lynette Walther creates starfish, seahorses, and mermaids from glass and pottery shards pulled from river and lake beds in Maine. $225
Tre Sebastian 304 Anastasia Blvd Put a beautiful glow in your home with a Lifetime Candle, refillable, smokeless, odorless, and clean burning. Seashell 1-gallon jar. $225 tresebastian.com
Rugs, Rugs Rugs 844 Anastasia Blvd 5 x 8, Coral Tautleais Handwoven Wool rug by Surya-comes in a variety of colors. $399 marjorierugsrugsrugs.com
The Girl Next Door 1020 Anastasia Blvd Billabong Peruvian Dreams tribal print high neck top bikini with embroidered detail. Top $54.95; bottom $44.95 surf-station.com
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
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Two Romantic BY MICHELLE VIJGEN
Chill Time for the Both of You Poseidon Spa
reception area that happens to also be
spa day for two! To help you in your
53 King Street
a darling boutique filled with top notch
search for that special couples relaxation
St. Augustine, Florida
products. Lounge in the soothing relaxation
experience, Old City Life asked me to take
904-827-1888
room before you experience their Duet
Nothing says romance like an indulgent
you through the spas of the Oldest, and some say, the most romantic, city. All you
Massage in a beautifully equipped suite built Don’t let the size of this boutique spa fool
for two. Be sure to check out their wide
have to do is decide which one and book
you! This place is full of opulence and glam
array of treatment enhancements which
today to get your romantic day started…
and has pampering you down to an art. Your
includes options like a tension taming scalp
she’ll thank you later!
check-in begins in a beautiful, welcoming
treatment or collagen eye or lip treatments.
RELAXING AND CONNECTING It’s amazing what a little pampering together can do for you relationship.
Once your afternoon of relaxation is
from the Philippines, which give off calcium
rooms. With waterfalls and peaceful music
complete, women can get their glam on for
ions when heated that are transferred to the
throughout, hydroponic therapy pools, and
a romantic evening at 95 Cordova at their
skin during the massage. The calcium ions
pool side service, The Spa takes you away
recently-opened makeup studio (guys, you
help the skin’s natural renewal process. It is a
to a calmer, more peaceful world…and we
might want to spring for a room at the Casa
unique and very relaxing experience.
could all use a bit (or a lot!) of that once in
Monica for a perfect end to a perfect day!).
awhile. Small Indulgences European Day Spa and
Mon Petit Chou Spa and Salon
Salon
This facility has over 22 treatment rooms
1829 Old Beach Road
9 Sanchez Avenue
but for a romantic experience, you’ll want
St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine, Florida
to take advantage of the very large and
904-607-2534
904-824-6220
beautiful private couple’s suite for an indulgent pampering times two (just plan on
Here is another boutique spa and salon
This little garden oasis is located in Uptown
spending the entire day up in Ponte Vedra
that will totally surprise you. Tucked away
San Marco and is a gem of a retreat. It
to truly experience all of the amenities
on the island, Mon Petit Chou is a little
is a calm, understated spa that is rather
offered here). Grab your partner and head
hidden gem that stands on amazing service
cozy and sweet. Their couples retreat is a
up the coast to enjoy a day of relaxation at
and superior products. Their talented staff
gracious room that is very comfortable with
its finest.
can treat you and your’s to a wide array of
beautiful hardwood floors and soothing
services, including a couple’s massage, but
colors. An experience for the senses,
While the spas listed below don’t have couples
they can also create a custom afternoon for
their aromatherapy massage allows you
suites to provide simultaneous treatments, they
the both of you that treats you to services
and your therapist to create an individual
are well worth checking out too! Each spa has
throughout the spa and salon. This charming
blend of pure essential oils to be used to
its own unique vibe, so do some research and
place will have you feeling pampered and
enhance your service. Experts agree that
find which one best fits you.
loved and you really will feel like you’ve
aromatherapy is a great tool to relax both
escaped it all!
the mind and body. Hot stone treatments
Panache
and shiatsu massage are also offered.
1089 A1A Beach Blvd
Debbie’s Day Spa
St. Augustine Beach, Florida 32080
403 Anastasia Blvd.
The Spa at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club
St. Augustine, Florida
302 Ponte Vedra Blvd.
904-825-0569
Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida
Fountain of Youth~Spa and Laser Center
904-273-770
5 Sanchez Avenue
904-824-2771
St. Augustine, Florida 32084
What started as a small hair and nail salon
904-819-1481
in 1992, Debbie’s Day Spa has evolved into
An easy, peaceful drive up A1A, which
a full service salon and spa with over 6,000
includes scenic views from the highway, this
square feet of space dedicated to relaxation
spa is a delightful escape from St. Augustine
City Wellness
and pampering. They have five rooms
(yet still close enough that you can leave the
2225 A1A South Suite B6
dedicated to facial and massage treatment,
kids with the grandparents and feel close by-
St. Augustine, Florida 32080
including a couple’s suite where you and
We feel ya Moms and Dads!). The opulence
904-671-2860904-671-2860
your loved one can enjoy simultaneous
surrounds you the moment you step onto
pampering from a deep tissue massage, or
their marbled entry and are greeted by
a signature lava shell massage. This unique
the friendly attendants who check you in
massage uses real tiger striped clam shells
and escort you to your respected locker
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
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NORTH of The Plaza 1. LOVE’S ART EMPORIUM: 8 CATHEDRAL PLACE 2. TRIPP HARRISON GALLERY & studio: 22 CATHEDRAL PLACE 3. PETER O’NEILL GALLERY: 130 ST. GEORGE ST. 4. ST.AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS: 35 HYPOLITA #105 5. METALARTZ: 58 HYPOLITA ST. 6. ST. AUGUSTINE ART GLASS: 54 ST. GEORGE ST. 7. THE STARVING ARTIST: 28 CUNA ST. 8. SHAFFER GALLERY: 35 SAN MARCO AVE. STE.1 9. #7 ROHDE AVENUE GALLERY: 7 ROHDE AVE. 10. HIGH TIDE GALLERY: 76B SAN MARCO AVE.
SOUTH of The Plaza 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21.
GALERIA DEL MAR: 9 KING ST. PASTA GALLERY: 214 CHARLOTTE ST. ST. AUGUSTINE ART ASSOCIATION: 22 MARINE ST. AMIRO ART + DESIGN: 9 AVILES ST. AMIRO ART & FOUND: 9C AVILES ST. GEORGIA NICK GALLERY: 11A AVILES ST JOEL BAGNAL GOLDSMITH: 11B AVILES ST. AVILES STREET GALLERY: 11C AVILES ST. PLUM GALLERY: 10 AVILES ST. SEA SPIRITS GALLERY & GIFTS: 210 ST. GEORGE ST. #C LOST ART GALLERY: 210 ST. GEORGE ST. #C-1
Art Galleries of St. Augustine is an association of many diverse and eclectic galleries located in the city. From local artist owned businesses to exhibition halls and museums, these galleries offer collections of local, regional, national and facebook.com/artgalleriesofstagustine international artists.
22. BRILLIANCE IN COLOR: 25 KING ST. 23. GALERIA LYONS: 41B KING ST. 24. GRACE GALLERY: 47 KING ST.
WEST of The Plaza 25. LIGHTNER MUSEUM: 75 KING STREET 26. CRISP-ELLERT ART MUSEUM: 48 SEVILLA STREET 27. 130 KING FINE ART: 130 KING STREET 28. BUTTERFIELD GARAGE ART GALLERY: 137A KING STREET
EAST of The Plaza 29. SIMPLE GESTURES: 4 WHITE ST. E. & ANASTASIA BLVD. 30. THE ART STUDIO OF ST. AUGUSTINE BEACH: 370-A A1A BEACH BLVD.
The ART GALLLERIES of St. Augustine is an association of the many diverse and eclectic art galleries located in the nation’s oldest city. From local artist-owned businesses to elegant exhibition halls and museums, these galleries offer outstanding collections of local, regional, national and international artists.
FIRST FRIDAY 5-9 PM On the first Friday of each month the galleries offer new art exhibits and lively receptions to the public. Start your FREE self-guided tour at any of the Art Galleries, most within walking distance of each other. Hop aboard the FREE Art Walk trolley that runs throughout downtown. For more info, visit us www.ArtGalleriesofStAugustine.org
NORTH OF THE PLAZA 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
LOVE’S ART EMPORIUM: 8 CATHEDRAL PLACE TRIPP HARRISON GALLERY & studio: 22 CATHEDRAL PLACE ST. AUGUSTINE PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS: 35 HYPOLITA #105 METALARTZ: 58 HYPOLITA STREET HIGH TIDE GALLERY: 51A & B CORDOVA STREET THE STARVING ARTIST: 28 CUNA STREET ROHDE AVENUE GALLERY: 7 ROHDE AVENUE
SOUTH OF THE PLAZA 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21.
GALLERIA DEL MAR: 9 KING STREET BRILLIANCE IN COLOR: 25 KING STREET PLUM GALLERY: 9A AVILES STREET AMIRO ART & FOUND: 9C AVILES STREET GEORGIA NICK GALLERY: 11A AVILES STREET JOEL BAGNAL GOLDSMITH: 11B AVILES STREET AVILES STREET GALLERY: 11C AVILES STREET PASTA GALLERY: 214 CHARLOTTE STREET ST. AUGUSTINE ART ASSOCIATION: 22 MARINE STREET . LOST ART GALLERY: 210 ST.GEORGE STREET #C-1 GRACE GALLERY: 47 KING STREET GRAND BOHEMIAN GALLERY: 49 KING STREET SPEAR HOUSE GALLERY:149 CORDOVA STREET ABSOLUTE AMERICANA ART GALLERY: 77 BRIDGE STREET
EAST OF DOWNTOWN 22. SIMPLE GESTURES: 4 WHITE ST. E. & ANASTASIA BLVD. 23. 70 THE ART STUDIO OF ST.9AUGUSTINE BEACH:370A BEACH 3 BLVD. VOLUME • OLD CITY LIFE •A1AISSUE 24. ISLAND FRAMERS AND GALLERY: 4106 A1A SOUTH
FACEBOOK.COM/ARTGALLERIESOFSTAUGUSTINE
GALLERIES
11C Aviles Street • 904.823.8608
904.826.8530 • flagler.edu/crispellert
904-825-4577 • ButterfieldGarage.com
904.827.9997 • simplegestures@live.com
904.342.2186 • GeorgiaNickGallery.com
904.824.6322 • metalartzgifts.com
904.829.5003 • NeffJewelers.com
904.540.3661 • thestarvingartistconsignment.com OLDCITYLIFE.COM
71
What’s Goin’ Down in the Town....
MARCH
1 JULIAN HUNT ART BENEFIT A St. Augustine Art Association exhibition
7 MOSCOW CITY BALLET
15 DARK OF THE MOON TOURS
EMMA Concert performance by the Moscow
Conduct your own paranormal investigation
City Ballet of Don Quixote. emmaconcerts.com
of the St.Augustine Lighthouse & Museum on this guided ghost tour.
featuring paintings by Julian Courtenay
6-8 ST. AUGUSTINE LIONS
Hunt, with all proceeds benefitting the touch
SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
.St. Augustine Art Garden. 2-5p.m. staaa.org
Visit Francis Field for this festival featuring
19 MUSIC
delicious seafood, arts & crafts, and live music!
Louisiana’s zydeco music ambassadors,
lionsfestival.com
Buckwheat Zydeco perform at
4 LIGHTNER CURATOR TOUR
St. Augustine’s Colonial Quarter as part of
Themed interactive tours are designed to ive participants the opportunity to engage with the curator. Tours begin at 10a.m. lightnermuseum.org
13-15 CELTIC FESTIVAL Visit Francis Field for this festival featuring live music, food, art and games celebrating the Celtic heritage. celticstaugustine.com
6 1ST FRIDAY ARTWALK 5-9p.m. 20 galleries downtown live music,
14 ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE
refreshments, and new exhibits
Marching bands, floats, equestrian teams and
artgalleriesofstaugustine.com
more parade through downtown St. Augustine
CELEBRATION OF CARING
beginning at 10a.m.
11:30a.m. Anastasia Baptist Church hosts
celticstaugustine.com/activities/parade
14-15 HIGHLAND GAMES Kilt-donning athletes perform traditional
7 NIGHT FEST
Scottish strength competitions including the
The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum
caber toss and hammer throw at Francis Field.
celebrates 141 years of light with this special
celticstaugustine.com
evening event. staugustinelighthouse.org
15 MUSIC
DON’T MISS 6-29 BOYS NEXT DOOR
Indie-Folk artist Mason Jennings performs at the PV Concert Hall. Doors open at 7p.m. pvconcerthall.com
Limelight Theatre limelight-theatre.org
25 SARAH MCLACHLAN Doors open at 6p.m. to see multi-platinum and three-time award-winning artist. staugamphitheatre.com 72
the Sing Out Loud series. staugamphitheatre.com
21 FORT MOSE COMMEMORATION The second annual celebration with living history programs and weapons demonstrations. 10a.m.-3p.m. floridastateparks.org
22 EMMA CONCERT Ukrainian pianist, Stanislav Khristenko will
the 95th Annual Celebration of Caring Luncheon. More Information: 904-824-3195
staugustinelighthouse.come/events
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
preform at Flagler College Lewis Auditorium. emmaconcerts.com
27 COA GOLF TOURNAMENT The annual St. Johns COA tournament to benefit the Sunshine Center & Memory Care Programs. RSVP 904-209-3687 coasjc.com
MUSIC Willie Sugarcapps and Seth Walker bring their musical talents to St. Augustine’s Colonial Quarter blending rock, country, blues and rock ‘n roll. staugamphitheatre.com
WEDNESDAYS
THURSDAYS
St. Augustine Beach Market
Open Mic Night - Tradewinds
CULTURE
WEEKLY ROUTINE 350 A1A Beach Blvd Astanga Primary Series 8 Limbs Yoga -6 - 7:30p.m.
SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS St. Augustine Flea Market 9-4 2495 State Road 207
27-28 CIRQUE ZIVA
3 1ST FRIDAY ARTWALK
The Golden Dragon Acrobats present
5-9p.m. 20 galleries downtown live music,
their newest show Cirque Ziva with
refreshments, and new exhibits.
two performances at the St. Augustine
artgalleriesofstaugustine.com
Amphitheatre. staugamphitheatre.com
MUSIC
SUNSET & TAPAS TOUR
1964 The Tribute Band Concert performs at
The Cultural Center at PV Beach present the 6th
the St. Augustine Amphitheatre as an ultimate
annual Legacy Trust PVB Home and Art Tour.
Beatles tribute performance.
ccpvb.org
staugamphitheatre.com
ART SHOW 100 artists and craftsmen visit the Old Town
4 CULTURAL HIKE
for this popular weekend event at Francis
On the first Saturday of the month take a guided
Field. oldtownartshow.com
cultural hike at the GTM Research Reserve from 8:30a.m. to 10:30p.m. gtmnerr.org
27-29 TENNIS TOURNAMENT Harbour Island Tennis Centre is hosting the 3rd annual Tropical Tennis Tournament. All net
5 EASTER PARADE The parade begins at 3p.m. and features
proceeds will be donated to the Rotary Club
marching bands and decorated floats along with
of Coastal St. Johns County.
special appearances by the Easter Bunny.
harbourislandtennis.com
More information: 904-829-2333
APRIL
9-12 RACE WEEK REGATTA
2-5 KRAFT NABISCO
city’s 450th birthday along the St. Augustine
CHAMPIONSHIP
Watch as large-boat ocean racing and small boat racing competitions celebrate the first waterfront. sarw2015.com
The World Golf Hall of Fame weekend-long event celebrating past champions.
10-12 RHYTHM & RIBS FESTIVAL
worldgolfhalloffame.org
Visit Francis Field for the 20th Annual Rhythm & Ribs festival featuring music and award-winning barbecue all weekend long. rhythmandribs.net
oldcitylife.com
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
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LIV IN G | GA R DE N I N G
LIVING
SPRING TO LIFE!
MARCH IS THE TIME TO GET OUT THERE BY KIMBERLY LEONARDI
Looking at all the beautiful flowers
for St. Augustine sod and be on the
establishment (when you see new
blooming around the town, I’d say we
lookout for pests in the lawn and
foliage, leaves or flowers). There are
have a full-blown case of Spring fever!!
garden and eradicate early. If you see a
many different plants and many different
This makes it a great time to plant your
“tunneling” affect in your citrus foliage
soil types here in North Florida due to
Spring flowers and veggies and spruce
then you most likely have leaf miner.
development, coastline and inland areas,
up those beds, gardens and containers.
Luckily, it doesn’t damage the fruit of
etc. so keep that in mind as well and
Common flowers readily available in
citrus, but it can distort the foliage and
ensure to choose the right plant for the
spring include: Bush & Gazania Daisy,
make and unsightly tree. We recommend
right place for maximum efficiency.
Purslane, Portulaca, Marigolds, Vinca,
trimming damaged foliage and treating
Regular Spring showers require that
Salvia, Gaillardia, and Pentas.
with an oil spray or an organic systemic
you adjust irrigation systems so you are
Time to trim up your damaged winter
treatment. Be diligent in the garden and
not over-watering your lawn because
foliage if you haven’t done so already!
in the lawn, as I’ve already spotted a few
this may cause as much damage as under
Pinch expired blossoms on your annuals
dreaded grasshoppers early this season!
watering. Adding a rain gauge to your
to keep them blooming and remember to
Palms may be deficient in nutrients,
irrigation system is an economical way
keep the lawn
mowed at three inches
so spring is a great time to fertilize and
to ensure your sprinklers don’t run when
check your Cyads (Sago, Coontie &
it’s raining outside. They can also reduce
Cardboard palms) for scale, which has been relentless. If you see a white powdery looking substance on them, there is a high possibility
environment woes from runoff of your lawn into rain gutters, and ultimately our waterways. The weather is perfect for all of the
it’s scale and a horticulture
outdoor activities and festivals that
oil should be close at
are going on locally, so hopefully you
hand to treat them!
can start your Spring by adding some
Without rainfall,
beautiful flower color and then you can
you’ll want to water
get out there and have some Spring fun
newly-planted shrubs
around beautiful St Johns County!
and trees about three times per week until
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
Kimberly Leonardi and her husband Kevin have run Leonardi’s Nursery for more than twenty years. They are members of the Florida Nursery Growers Association and the Florida Native Plant Society. Please feel free to send any questions or comments to leonardisnursery@msn.com.
Buying OR Selling? In Beautiful St. Augustine Call Jane For Spectacular Service & Results!
Just back from Toy Fair 2015 in NYC!!
Stocking all the new cool toys for 2015 and the favorites! Looking for the perfect gift? Come here first!
www.OldeTowneToys.com Open Daily and free parking 113 King St. St. Augustine, Fl. 32084
904-814-8710
Beauty Appliances
Jane M. Mathis
Realtor速 Associate 904.501.3215 j_mathis@bellsouth.net
Great Gift Ideas
Hot Shot Bakery and Cafe
Open for breakfast and lunch daily freshly-baked goods, coffee, catering and custom wedding/all-occasion cakes
8 Granada Street - Saint Augustine (904) 824-7898 OLDCITYLIFE.COM
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
FOOD & D RI NK | TASTE
FOOD & DRINK
WHEN TO WINE BY JEANNE MARON
It’s raining today. That’s okay because
This means that you can put yourself at
yesterday was a breezy 60 degrees, and
risk during hot weather activity even if you
tomorrow is supposed to go down to 29.
don’t have much to drink.
The problem is I don’t know which bottle
An added risk during all forms of hot
of wine to open because it generally takes
weather activity is heat illness. Alcohol
me two to three days to drink it. Is there a
is a diuretic--meaning that it promotes
science to pairing wine with the weather?
dehydration--and interferes with
There truly are no standards but I do have recommendations that should be considered. When it is cold outside, drinking wines
your body’s ability to regulate its own temperature. So, what do we drink? Cooled white wines and dry rose’s are a good choice.
that have higher alcohol and tannins raise
They tend to be filling but dry enough
your body temperature which gives you the
not to be slammed down. Wines that are
feeling that you are warming up. However,
sweet come off as refreshing and tend to
it could be deceptive. In reality, when you
go down too easily.
drink, it dilates the peripheral blood vessels
Whatever your choice, drink in
near your skin, which means more blood,
moderation. A good rule of thumb: for
and heat, flows to these vessels. That
every glass of wine or liquor you consume,
takes blood and heat away from the core
drink an entire glass of water immediately
of your body. So while it feels like you’re
following. This will help dilute the
warm because your skin is warm, your vital
dangerous affects and slow you down on
organs aren’t as warm as you might think
your consumption. Drink smart and don’t
they are.
take on any heavy physical activities. If you
If you then go out in the cold after drinking, because you’ve got a lot of heat on the periphery of your body, you can
are going to be active, you might stick to the almighty H20. Warm Cheers to you!
lose heat very easily and quickly which can be dangerous. Sometimes, when outside after drinking too much and temperatures are low, some people pass out end up with hypothermia. Similarly, alcohol and hot weather activity can be a dangerous mix. The risks include accidents and heat illness. Alcohol interferes with balance, coordination and judgment. These effects are heightened by sun exposure and heat.
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
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FOOD & DRINK
FOO D & DR IN K | RECI P E
Maryland Style
Crab Cakes With Datil Lime Aioli BY CHASE PRITCHARD PHOTOS BY TAMMY HARROW
When I think of crab cakes, they are
80
At Culinary Outfitters, we feature a crab
City flare with the use of the the city’s
meaty with a crispy texture on the outside,
cake that has been voted “St. Augustine’s
signature Datil Peppers. Paired with a Crisp
soft and delicate in the center, very little
Best Crab Cake” 8 times running. Naturally,
Sauvignon Blanc, these cakes come alive.
breading, and minimal spices used only to
we’re very protective of our award-winning
As for our signature crab cake, unless
lift the flavor of the crab meat. The very
recipe so the one here isn’t Pierce’s,
you’ve attended one of our catered events,
delicate yet extremely flavorful protein
which is the one we use at the restaurant.
the only way to try “St. Augustine’s Best”
really shines when executed properly and
Instead, I’ve given my take on a Maryland
is to visit the Bistro itself. Tell them Chase
not subdued by other bold flavors.
Style Crab Cake by infusing a little Old
sent you!
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
Maryland Style Crab Cakes
Directions:
Ingredients:
1. Pick the crab meat to remove any
Ingredients:
1 lb. Crab Meat, Preferable Lump, Fresh
remaining pieces of shell.
1 clove Garlic, Minced
unpasteurized
2. Pulse crackers to very small crumble
1 tsp. Salt
2 Egg Yolks, beaten
consistency, place in bowl and fold in crab
1 egg, large
1 Tbs. Mayo Hellmans extra thick
meat. Add egg, mayonnaise, mustard,
1 yolk
1 tsp. Dijon
Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay
1 Cup Canola Oil
1 tsp. Worcestershire
seasoning. Mix ingredients by hand to
1 lime zested
6 Ritz Crackers, Chopped in food
avoid overworking the crabmeat, you
2 Tbs. Lime Juice
processer.
want to keep the lumps of meat as much
1 Datil pepper minced
1 Tbs. Old Bay
as possible. Form into patties: this should
1 Tbs. chopped flat leaf parsley
make 6 good-size cakes, approx. 4� in
Directions:
1 tsp. Salt
diameter and 1.5� thick
In mixer add garlic, salt, egg and yolk, lime
3. Heat 2 Tbs. of butter in a skillet, then
juice. Incorporate fully.
fry cakes for about 4 minutes on one side
Slowly stream oil in until emulsified. Fold
or until golden brown, turn over and place
in lime Zest and minced Datil Pepper .
Pre-heat oven to 350
Datil Lime Ailoi
in hot oven for additional 7 minutes
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
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FOO D & DR IN K | TA S T E
FOOD & DRINK
BARTENDERS FOR THE LOVE OF COCKTAILS, LOVE FOR THE COMMUNITY BY LURA SCARPITTI (IN COOPERATION WITH CESAR DIAZ)
Next time you go into an establishment that serves “adult” beverages, stop and really give some thought to the person serving you your drink. That’s not just a body back there throwing together some liquor and mixers, or popping a beer open. For many years, “bartending” hasn’t been looked on as a profession but consider
this: it requires skills, organization, knowledge, and patience…a LOT of patience. Bartenders not only serve you drinks-many times they are called CONTINUED PG 84 82
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
Celebrating 25 Years!
J o in us a t t h e B e a c h! C as ual Oceanfr ont D i ni ng L unch & D i nner Ev eryday Br eakfas t on the W eek ends
45 C u bbedge R oad C res cen t Bea ch, FL 904. 471. 8700 • s outhbeachgrill.net
Come Dine al Fresco!
Fresh Seafood, Wild Game Exotic Specialties
Not the only water view in town... ...simply the most spectacular
Open Holidays!
Dinner: Tues-Thur 5 - 9 Fri-Sat 5 - 10 Sun 5 - 8
Lunch: Tues-Sat: 11-3 Brunch: Sunday 10-3
904.824.3282 • 58 Charlotte Street www.LaPentolaRestaurant.com
904-824-8008 4100 Coastal Highway St. Augustine, FL 32084 thereefstaugustine.com
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
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FOOD & DRINK
FOO D & DR IN K | RECI P E
upon to listen to your troubles, mediate disputes, be a “buddy” (when often, they don’t even know the person on the other side of the bar). Make no mistake about it-it takes a special person to be a bartender. Cesar Diaz, who has been a member of the profession for many years and is currently one of the lead bartenders at The Ice Plant, says that many bartenders go through intense training to become truly proficient at what they do best-make your social experience fun, happy and care-free. Organizations like Court of Master Sommeliers, United States Bartenders Guild, Bar Smarts, BAR Resource, conferences and conventions, even colleges and universities provide significant educational resources for those wanting to “craft” cocktails instead of just slinging drinks. Contrary to popular belief, these men and women don’t just push drinks in front of you, go home at the end of the day counting their cash, oblivious to the world around them. Quite the opposite, in fact. Think about it-their job gives them a unique perspective on the world-they see things, hear things, experience things in our society that would make anyone think twice about…anything in the world. Yes, it’s fun and it can be very exciting, but at the end of the day, this unique perspective often has the effect of making these professionals very aware of their responsibility to the community that they serve. Like most of us, they feel the need to give back…and give back they often do. For instance, Diaz is one of the creators of The Louis Salgar Fund-established to provide monies for scholarships and community programs for young creatives in the greater South Florida area. Diaz and Salgar’s wife, Nicole, came together to start the fund as a way of keeping her husband’s memory alive after Salgar was fatally shot after interrupting a robbery in his home in June of 2014 (shortly after his 29th birthday). Salgar, a craft bartender and Miami-based musician was known for his talent, passion, big dreams and infectious sense of humor and Diaz and Nicole hope to keep that alive in inspiring youths of the area as well. Tragedies bring a call-to-action for many mixologists. Swing for Boston was a charity softball
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
FOOD & D RI NK | RECIPE
FOOD & DRINK
tournament where bartenders participated in a softball tournament to raise money for the victims of the Boston Marathon bombings. Imbibe Magazine, a trusted source of information for the profession, donated $1 of every online subscription order to the Red Cross Oklahoma Tornado Relief fund. An offshoot of the funds went to the Genesis organization, which provides shelter, safety, counseling, and expert services to battered women and their children. In that vein, Imbibe Magazine, launched Negroni Week in the summer of 2013. This celebration of one of the world’s great cocktails was really an effort to raise money for charitable causes around the world. And it worked. Collectively Negroni Week bars and restaurants raised more than $120,000 for charities around the world. They also give back to their own. The Helen David Relief Fund created to assist bartenders and their families who are in need of financial assistance as a result of a catastrophic event or an emergency hardship, particularly catastrophic events and emergency hardships stemming from cancer diagnoses or treatment. The fund honors the memory of the beloved Port Huron, MI bar owner and community leader who passed from breast cancer. In her name, the HDMF assists women in the bar industry who are taking on breast cancer with the dignity and courage Helen displayed through
Menu in Braille also ASL signing
her battles, and exemplified throughout her life as a pioneer business owner in
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the bar industry This is serious stuff, of course, but let’s face it, bartending is essentially a fun job-for the most part, people at a bar or restaurant are there to socialize-to meet, mingle, laugh…to have a good time. Naturally, that sense
4010 US1 South - St. Augustine, FL 794-9440 • www.conradssteakhouse.com
of fun often carries over to the charitable efforts
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
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FOOD & DRINK
FOOD & DR IN K | TA S T E
spearheaded by bartenders. Here is where
barbecue, Pig and Punch, where they
women bartenders shine. Speed Rack (yes,
serve a succulent pork barbecue and…
the double intendre is intended), created
you guessed it, punch. Hosted by the Bon
and produced by nationally acclaimed
Vivants, and co-founded by Josh Harris
bartenders and industry ambassadors,
and Scott Baird from the San Francisco-bar,
Lynnette Marrero and Ivy Mix, is a
Trick Dog. Through Pig & Punch and other
competition designed to highlight up-and-
events across the country, the Bon Vivants
coming women in the cocktail industry
have raised $135,844 for local charities and
as well as give back to those impacted by
have coordinated 5,189 hours of volunteer
breast cancer. The event taps top female
work during the volunteer days associated
bartenders in leading cocktail markets
with the events.
and puts them head-to-head in timed
As Diaz puts it “Next time that you go
challenges – all for the purpose of raising
to bar, don’t think that the bartender is
funds for breast cancer charities and
only there to serve you a cocktail. You’re
research. To date, Speed Rack is racking up
probably being served by a professional
the funds, raising more than $150,000 to
that serves your entire community, so
save the ta-tas.
make sure you take care of them.” For
Imbibe Magazine, in partnership with
those behind the bar that want to give
Esquire Magazine, appears on the scene
of their time: “If you are in the hospitality
again for another cheeky event-the charity
industry and you want succeed and move
forward as a real professional bartender, I encourage you to join a local USBG chapter and get ready to get involved with their programs and activities, and show others how much you care.”
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Breakfast served until 2pm, Full Bar, Happy Hour from 4-7pm, Great New Menu Items! 86
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
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Hookey Hamilton
Fine Art and Portrait Photographer 11B & 11C Aviles St St. Augustine, FL 32084
Email: jbagnal@joelbagnalgoldsmith.com Web: joelbagnalgoldsmith.com
Phone: 904.728.4957
Commemorating life’s special occasions and relationships with custom designs in precious metals and gemstones. Complete client design and production involvement by email from any location.
Email: hookey@hookeyhamiltonphotography.com
Web: hookeyhamiltonphotography.com
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Joel Bagnal, Goldsmith
11B Aviles Street, St. Augustine, Fl 32084 Phone: 904.614.4706
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
LI VI NG | B EAUTY
LOVE YOUR SKIN Skin is our largest organ and needs proper
for maintenance. The cost-less than one
hundreds to thousands of dollars depending
care and nutrition just like the rest of our
hundred dollars for a single treatment to
on how many areas are treated and how many
body. The first step in caring for your skin is
hundreds of dollars for a series.
treatments are performed.
to make a commitment to limit your overall sun exposure. No matter what treatment is
IPL- Intense Pulse Light. This is not laser
Laser Resurfacing- skin can be
performed to rejuvenate your skin, the sun
therapy; it is broad-band light treatment
rejuvenated with many different types of
will ultimately beat this treatment if it is not
to decrease fine lines, pore size and
lasers (Carbon dioxide/CO2, Erbium, etc).
limited. A good skin care regimen is paramount
pigmentations (red lesions/vessels and brown
Lasers can be non-ablative to the skin (skin
to the skins’ overall appearance. There are so
spots). It is usually completed in a series of
preserving) or ablative (skin removing) and
many skin care pharmaceuticals that it is hard
3-5 treatments at approximately 1 month
can also be fractionated (leaving some skin
to wade through them but you can build a
intervals. The full face, neck and decollate
intact). CO2 lasers are the gold standard
solid foundation with a few simple steps.
can be treated in about one hour. There is no
for ablative skin rejuvenation and can give
downtime, risks are minimal, but the process
wonderful results in the appropriate candidate
recommended. Cleansers clean your skin.
takes a few weeks to months for results
with realistic expectations. They too, can
Toners help restore the pH of your skin.
(aka, “Photofacial” or “Fotofacial”). Cost can
be tailored to light, medium, and deeper
Exfoliates help superficially debride your
range from hundreds to thousands of dollars
treatments. Lasers differentiate from peels in
skin. Moisturizers may be implemented or a
depending on how many areas are treated and
the fact that they can tighten the underlying
sunblock. Two prescription-based products
how many treatments are performed.
tissues better in general. The tightening affect
At a minimum a cleanser and sunblock are
takes months, the skin quality improvement is
that are used routinely are Hydroquinone and Tretinoin (Retin A). Hydroquinone is a product
Chemical Peels- There are many different
apparent within days to weeks. With any peel
to help take out/prevent pigment (whiten)
types of chemicals utilized for facial peels
or resurfacing, there can be skin erythema
the skin. Retin A is a form of Vitamin A that is
(glycolic, TCA, Phenol, etc). Some can be
(redness, usually in lighter skin patients) or
anti-aging and help the skin renew itself. Some
applied by ancillary clinical staff, others must
hyper-pigmentation (sporadic darkening,
of the above mentioned products can be
be applied by licensed doctors. “Light” peels
usually in darker skin patients) that may persist
bought over-the-counter, others are medical
usually cause light skin peeling over 1-3
for weeks to months. It is very important to
grade and are only sold by licensed doctors.
days and have the appearance of a sunburn.
be on a pre-skin conditioning program to
The medical grade products are more goal-
Multiple “light” peels can be performed every
prepare ones skin for the above referenced
oriented and can cause topical affects such as
2-4 weeks to desired results. “Medium”
procedures. Cost can range from hundreds to
redness, soreness and skin flaking/peeling.
peels produce about 3-6 days of peeling and
thousands of dollars depending on how many
skin care. They look like a bad sunburn and
areas are treated and how many treatments
damaged skin that may be appropriate and are
usually keep the patient out of work for 5-7
are performed.
performed in-office include:
days. The results can be dramatic from a skin
Other modalities to treat aging, sun-
quality standpoint, leaving the skin appearance
Microdermabrasion-non-invasive, no-
uniform and glowing. “Deeper” peels come
downtime procedure that exfoliates the outer
with more risk, but can also give better skin
layers of skin, which can be performed by non-
tightening. Downtime is approximately
medical licensed personnel. This technology
7-12 days and these peels are usually done
speeds the skin maturation process and allows
with some type of adjunctive anesthesia for
other products to work more effectively. It
comfort when being performed. The “deeper”
is usually performed in a series to get initial
the peel the better the results, but with
results and can then be individually performed
that come more risks. Cost can range from
Essentials to maintaining good skin health, that we have some control over are: exercise, a nutritional diet, decreased stress, not smoking and limiting sun exposure. Certain systemic health issue present outwardly in our skin and should be addressed with the assistance of an expert in this field of medicine. So with the complexity of skin and the many factors that contribute to its appearance, it is best to have a customized program for your specific condition(s) and goals.
OLDCITYLIFE.COM
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BEAUTY
BY DR. DOUG JOHNSON
Photos by Katie Lay
OYSTER ROAST
T
on the town
he 5th Annual Oyster Roast hosted by the North Shore Connectors of Flagler Hospital through Flagler Health Care Foundation was held on Sunday, January 25, 2015 at the Boating Club of St. Augustine. Kai Long and Janet Steiner served as the co-chairwomen for this year’s Oyster Roast. The event had an attendance of more than 300 people, raising over $20,000 to benefit the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and the Pediatric Care Program at Flagler Hospital. In addition to enjoying live music and great food, participants had the opportunity to browse through and bid on items in a silent auction, or take a chance to win one of the fantastic prizes in the auction.
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
Photos Left to Right Left Page: Daphne & Jerry Cameron • Jean- François and Amy Borie, Colin Turner, Yuliya Kubryakova, Dr. Anh Vu, Kelly Turner, Shannon Wilson, Brad Cooper, Kelly Wilson, Robin Cooper, Brett Malek, Cathy Burkhardt and Dr. Beverly Carmichael • Gordon & Carson Bjorkman • Bob Griffith, Libby Guinn, Colleen Messner • Jackie Rice, Barbara Gronberg, Larry Rice • Jan Sanchez, Carolyn Kraly, Twila Little, Tina Pappas, Debi Foster • Kelly Monroe, Cathy Burkhardt, Marilyn Garrett • Diane & Mel Longo, Dr. Susan Yarian, Lee Toutant • Ryan, Borna & Dr. Tawhid Hossain • Row 1: Kai Long, Lynda Kirker, Trish Phillips, Betty Usina • Row 2: Sandra McGinnis Conners, Wanda Broadway, Traci Usina, Janet Steiner • Row 3: Marcia Smith, Kay, Jerry Vaughn, Sylvia McGinnis • Row 4: Nedra Parry, Beverly Cox, Tom Brock, Bill Long, Luis Casado, Art Casado, Theresa Mathis, Marilyn Burres. Photos Left to Right Right Page: David and Kitty Parlin • Bill Sabo, Elizabeth Roth, Jim Carpenter • Ken & Karen Yarbrough • Amy Snare and John Reyes • Becky Hill and Marilyn Garrett • Alicia Groth, Steve Groth, Cathy Johnston, Shiva Sanyasi, Nei & Lynne Kittle • Brookes & Cathy Burkhardt • Dr. Dianne Morse, Doug Crane • David Cross, Karen Osterbye • Katie & Justin Caccavale • Lisa, Kate, Fred & Will Lloyd.
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Photos by Laryssa Gobets
TABLE TENNIS
T
on the town
he 6th Annual All American Air Table Tennis Classic to benefit charitable projects in the St. Augustine area proved to be another huge success for our community. Donating this year’s tournament proceeds of $50,000 from the All American Air Charitable Foundation and their sponsors will assist the Building Fund of Home Again St. Johns and the projects of Habitat for Humanity in St. Johns County. Over 70 players dressed in costumes including the beloved Bailey-chicken, Lucille Ball, Richard Simmons, a creepy, but talented, cockroach, and the Mutant Ninja Turtles to entertain over 350 guests with their varying table tennis skills and antics. The most serious players battled into the night, finally crowning Steve Chapman, winner of the Legends Division; Katie Crevasse, Women’s Division winner, and Alex Wimpelberg, winner of the Open Division. In addition to tournament table tennis play directed by Derek and Pete May and staff, guests were entertained with live music and dancing, silent auction, and delicious food and drinks.
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
Photos Left to Right Left Page: Jennifer Craig, Debbie Deery • David & Melissa Ott, Amy & Jimmy Newman • Gina & Troy Levins • Kayrene Kirkman, Autumn Morris, Kate Lukomskaya • Robert Metzger, Robin Cooksey • Dr Anis Ahmadi, Matt McGaw, Dr Camille McGaw, Elena Laguardia, Dr Dan Gassert • Jen & Tom Reed • Doug & Katie Johnson • Dorothy Chiu, Gayle Logan • Ryan & Theresa Davidson • Chad & Betsy Wegeman. Photos Left to Right Right Page: Christine & Steve Chapman • Lori Conner, Katey Anderson, Mike Look, Lauren Look • Lisa Kelly, Sheila Sagear • Christina & Eric Brennan • Andy Norman, Ray Cooney • Betsy Wegeman, Jessica Cooksey, Erika Metzger, Monica Fourman • Susan Malota, Beate & Sven Schroeder • Allie Patrou, Mandy Murdock, Jennifer Vencil • Nicole & Robert Nettles • Becca & Lauren Fink • Kelly Eastman, Mimi Moxon.
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CH RI S TI E BLU E
A
on the town
s part of their fashion event series Tongue and Groove, Christé Blue featured guest designer Ursula of Switzerland. The fashion show gave VIP guests an interactive look at Bohemian styles. Guests were also able to interact with the designer to gain an intimate understanding of her inspirations for this current line that blends traditional and contemporary aspects to create a truely unique and dynamic line. For more information on Christe’ Blue or their upcoming events, go to www.shopchristeblue.com
on the town
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
T
he Young Professionals Organization of St. Augustine held their February social at the Lightner Museum on February 12th. The YPO is a group of local 21-39 year old men and women that are working towards career advancement, higher salaries, bonuses, commissions, and the ever-higher respect of their peers.
Photos by Laryssa Gobets
Photos Left to Right: Alex Ritter, Billy Seng, Tim Olsen • Amy & Ben Bishop • Emili-Erin Alexander, Kimberly Delisa • John Radtke, Jeff Stevens • Allyson Knowalske, Aubrey Harper, Erin Acton, Sarah Knowalske • Emili-Erin Alexander, Kimberly Delisa • Kayla Temboer, Jennifer Jordan, Gene Justice • Erin Bailey, Tyler Albrecht • Tiffany Keelin, Chris Keelin
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
contributors Ashley Bates is a professional writer and social media manager. She graduated from the University of Central Florida and got her start in journalism writing sports articles for The (Gainesville, Ga.) Times and moved onto writing arts and entertainment, food and religion features. She has received awards from the Georgia Press Association for “Writer of the Year” in religion reporting.
Jeanne Maron is the owner/operator of The Gifted Cork, specializing in fine wines from around the world. Maron is the Vice Charge-de-Presse of North Florida Chapter’s Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. She also serves as Chairman of the Board of Children’s Home Society, Buckner Division, in Jacksonville. Visit thegiftedcork.com.
Alan Bratic is a 1997 graduate of Flagler College with a degree in Business and Economics. He lives in Saint Augustine with his wife and three children. Bratic is a Certified Financial Planner, Registered Investment Advisor, Branch Manager with Linsco Private Ledger and holds series 7, 24, 63 and 65 licenses. He can be contacted through the ThompsonBaker Agency, Inc. at 904.824.1631 ext. 4203.
Rick McAllister spent 20 years in the corporate world of New York, a year on a Congressional program in the U.S. House of Representatives, has owned several small businesses and taught scuba diving in the Florida Keys. A Vietnam Vet, he continues to enjoy traveling, kayaking, golf and time with his daughter Lauren and her family. Rick’s photography can be seen at www.fotowurks.com.
Joseph L. Boles, Jr. moved to Saint Augustine with his parents in 1967. He graduated from St. Augustine High school in 1970 and went on to the University of Florida, where he earned a degree in Law and a degree in Design. He has seven wonderful children and a beautiful wife named Jane. Joe served as Mayor of the City of Saint Augustine from 2006-2014. His hobbies are golfing, fishing and painting.
Kim Miller has been in the health and fitness field her entire adult life. A full-time personal trainer and wellness coach, she holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Physical Education, is certified as a personal trainer through the American Council on Exercise and is a certified wellness coach with Wellcoaches. She is owner of Bodysmart Inc, and blogs on health and wellness on her Bodysmart Fitness Through The Ages site www.bodysmartinc.com.
Bobby Crum resides in Saint Augustine with his wife Patty and two children. In addition to being a long-time OCL contributor, he is the Worship & Teaching Pastor at Anastasia Baptist Church and has served there for 18 years. Bobby loves the beach, gardening, guitar, SUP’ing and family time. He has served on various community boards over the years and is currently a member of the Saint Augustine Rotary Club.
Chef Chase Pritchard’s passion for food and wine has inspired him to blend the sophistication and service of Culinary Outfitters Catering with his own talent and creativity to develop a one of a kind restaurant, The Bistro at Culinary Outfitters. This restaurant fuses American and French cuisine into an a la carte menu that one will not soon forget.
Originally from Venezuela, Cesar Diaz, arrived from Miami as a Bartender and beverage consultant. Cesar has evolved by taking ideas and putting them into practicem and creating some of the most visionary mixes and establishing his name as a prominent mixologist in Florida. You will find him working with ideas that make the world in a glass go round. You will always find Cesar accompanied by his beautiful family including his three young daughters and wife, his number one fans.
Melissa Roby has always had a passion for photography and fine arts and has always wanted her life to be surrounded by the arts while inspiring others to find their artist within. Graduating from UNF with her degree in Communications and Photography her photography has taken her to exotic locations like Paris, the Caribbean and Alaska. Melissa is the owner of St. Augustine’s very own art supply store called, The Red Sable.
Tammy Harrow is an avid world traveler, photographer and writer. She loves to journey around the globe searching for beauty and inspiration. Since relocating to St Augustine, Tammy has expanded into commercial photography and has a special place in her heart for creatively photographing culinary dishes for local restaurants. She has a degree in Journalism, is nationally published and has trained with some of National Geographic’s top photographers.
Nancy Shaver serves St. Augustine as Mayor. Since choosing St. Augustine as her home she has been active in the Lincolnville community. An experienced business leader, she is a Principal Consultant for Experian, a global data and analytics leader, and has served on boards of businesses and non-profits. Her confessed “addiction” is collecting art, including works of local artists.
Originally from Hagerstown Maryland, Justin Itnyre serves as Old City Life’s staff photographer. Justin’s photographs have been featured on several covers of Old City Life as well as other publications. His architectural photography has been published in Homes & Land Jacksonville Magazine, Unique Homes, and the book, Historic Sites of St. Augustine and St. Johns County.
Renee Unsworth was born in Jacksonville and was raised in Interlachen, Florida. She moved to St. Augustine in 2003. She and her husband, Shawn, have three daughters. Renee has a passion for the arts community and recently started the website totallystaugustine.com. She currently is the Director of Marketing and Publicity at Limelight Theatre and previously worked as the Compass editor at the St. Augustine Record.
Fond Kiser moved to St. Augustine from Austin, TX. He’s a professional singer/songwriter/guitarist who has written music for PBS and Ford Motor Company. Fond has performed with comedian Ron White, The Mother Truckers, The Band of Heathens, and was the lead guitarist for Texas legend Jimmy Lee Jones. He’s written and produced advertising campaigns for the ad agencies TBWA Chiat-Day, Cramer-Krasselt, and the Jacksonville based St. John & Partners.
A native Okie, Michelle Vijgen moved to St. Augustine in 1997 to attend Flagler College. After graduation, she married local businessman and resident Dutchman Alphons Vijgen. Together they own the local boutique Spanish Dutch Convoy. Michelle believes that style is defined from the inside out and that your attitude is your greatest accessory. She loves shopping, dining out, bubble baths, and sparkling wine.
Kimberly Leonardi and her husband Kevin have run Leonardi’s Nursery for more than twenty years and strive to give back to the community that has supported Leonardi’s for the past 48 years. They are members of the Florida Nursery Growers Association and the Florida Native Plant Society. Please feel free to send any questions or comments to leonardisnursery@msn.com.
Sarah Williamson moved to St. Augustine from Burlington, Vermont in 2010. She graduated from Flagler College with degrees in Communication and Sociology but her focus was in photojournalism and cinematography. Sarah has won three awards from the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ). She began her wedding photography career in 2012 and also works at Northeast Florida’s premiere boudoir studio, Bad Girl Boudoir, located in St. Augustine.
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LIVIN G | PEO PL E
LIVING
SURROUNDED
…CUP O’
(IN THE BEST WAY)
JOE
BY JOE BOLES
I like women-always have, and that’s a good thing!
by her hasty marriage, my arrival and his
Dad-thanks. I’ve used that theory more
new wilderness vocation, so I became her
than once, I must say!
best friend! She talked to me like an adult, I came to like women in a natural way. I
because I am surrounded by women-it
was the first child born to my mother
so successfully into academia at an age
stacks up like this: a wife (a beloved,
and father-until the second child comes
so young that she should have notified
sweet wonderful wife); a mother (a dear,
along to destroy our Garden of Eden just
the Guinness Book of World Records for
saintly mother who taught me there are
by existing (that was my little brother,
the most educated child in Mecklenberg
no limits in life); a mother-in-law (who
Booger, who not only had the poor taste
County, North Carolina. So thanks, Mom.
taught her daughter all she knows except
to be born at all, but had the audacity
You gave me a good early vocabulary,
the bad stuff…actually, there is no bad
to be born, not near, but on my second
a voracious appetite for not only the
stuff); three daughters (who take after
birthday, June 17th). Yes, you heard right,
written word but for the spoken word
their Father); three step-daughters (who
not only was I no longer an only child, I
as well because you didn’t talk down to
take after their mother); a sister; five
was motherless on my second birthday
me, you talked to me like a peer (your
sisters-in-law; a female dog named Molly
because my mother just haaaad to be at
only peer during those first two years, it
and an office staff that is made up entirely
the hospital with my father as well! So, I
would seem, with Dad off doing Ranger
of women as well. As a matter of fact, the
had no parents with me on that special
stuff while you and I jumped up and down
only male anywhere is my stepson Willie,
day, leaving me all alone with my little
on the car-counting cable so it would
who stays away as much as possible just
birthday cake struggling to strike a match
appear that park visitation was up so
as a survival technique (his only day off
to light the candles at the age of two…
they would give him a raise! Didn’t think
from law school finds him at WFOY as an
nearly impossible!
I would remember that, did you?! Good
intern on the air on Friday mornings...with
one, Mom!)
a couple of women!)
I guess I am lucky to have had those two years alone with my Mom because
96
It’s a good thing I like women too
read to me like a fiend and pushed me
My dad also really liked women, in
I used to opine (back in my ignorant
we were really alone... in a cabin…in the
fact his favorite saying was “If women
Neanderthal days) that if women learned
woods…of a State Park in the Smoky
ran things there wouldn’t be any wars!”
to do two things they would instantly rule
Mountains. My dad was a park ranger. We
I could never get him to elaborate but
the world-and we men would love it!
had army cots for beds in the provided
I do know he hated the war he served
quarters, intermittent electricity and
in, except for the part where he was the
all the deer, turkey and fish we could
sandwich boy at the on ship poker games.
eat (if he could kill or catch it and bring
His profit was a dollar a sandwich because
it home for her to cook). I ponder her
when guys get a hot streak with the cards,
circumstances as I now know that her
they don’t want to take the time to leave
needed to kill and dispose of a roach
Duke University education was cut short
the table to get food. Good lesson in life,
used to be reserved to the male of the
VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
The first is how to kill roaches....and the second is how to objectify men. Let’s talk about number one: the skill
species. All the “manly men” of the house
killed and mounted on the “trophy stand”
my wife, who was my friend before we
need to hear is a certain easily identifiable,
was exempt from cleaning duty. And...I heard
be came romantically involved and then
high octave “EEEEEKKK!” and we just come
her brag to the friend, “I was always the
married, says women are attracted first to
a-runnin’; testosterone oozing from our brow
winner!”
a man’s sense of humor and not necessarily
and whiskers popping out on our chin. With
Until now I have not let on that I know
his looks (thank God for that-which explains
our knuckles instantly hairing up like some
she was the Queen of the Roach Killers
why we are together!). Then she went on
caveman, we swoop into the kitchen, grab a
and has continued to “EEEEEKKKK! for
about a man’s hands and his forearms,
paper towel and squash the invader and drag
me whenever a roach is near. But honey,
and finally mentioned something about
his stinking carcass outside. No man feels as
my roach killing days don’t have to be over
his calves. Then I interrupted her and said,
proud as when he can turn an “EEEEKKK”
because it does my heart good to bring back
“What about Denzel Washington” and she
into a “Purrr…”
the trophy to you every now then. Spiders,
says, and I quote:
“There you go ladies, nothing to worry your pretty little heads about, keep on baking
rats and lizards too. But let’s talk for a moment about
“I would walk naked across the Bridge of Lions for Denzel Washington” (end of
those cookies-he won’t bother you again”
women being able to objectify men. You
I may have felt like that a time or two
know what I mean guys: like the whistles,
“Aha, I exclaimed, that is objectification,”
since living with all these women all these
cat-calls, hooting and hubba hubbas that
finally proving my point. And then I realized
years. I have been the defacto roach-killer,
pour forth anytime a woman walks by a
that women are able to treat men like
spider-masher, rat-trap remover and lizard-
construction site with a short skirt. That’s
trophies, there just aren’t that many of us
catcher as long as I can remember. Drawing
objectifying. Now I’m not getting all
that are “fine” enough to be put on the
a bit of macho memory from those events, it
psychological or going soft on you or
pedestal.
helps me face the cruel and savage world
anything but you do have to admit that
that I inhabit every day as an Estate Planner,
its a little bit rude and can be intimidating
sad, but just for a moment. Jane had gotten
Asset Protector and Elder Lawyer!
especially if the woman is alone. Women,
off the bed where we were talking and was
I am not trying to get you to do anything
changing into her nightgown. Every rational
to be the hero for my delicate, trembling
different, give a little acknowledgment that
thought went out of my head and I realized
wife Jane whenever she is attacked by the
you already objectify men. It’s just that you
that I am as about as mature as a sixteen-
insect world. But one day I accidentally
are a little more discriminating than most
year-old boy and that women already rule
overheard her talking to a friend. Seems
guys.
the world...and I’m just fine with that!
Nothing gives me more pleasure than
that during her younger days, single and
quote).
Somehow that revelation made me a little
I understand why men like the female
living in Orlando, working at her first real
form because I am a man and I can
job she and her roommates had a little game
understand why some women prefer
they played. First let me tell you that her
women to men because, like
roommates were males. Disgusting, dirty,
I say, I am a man. The
stinky, dish in the sink leaving males. These
truth of the matter is
were men in their twenties and I remember
that everyone likes the
those days when cleanliness was a waste of
female form, including
time and energy, and it was no less so with
women, because men,
these boys. The apartment was overrun
with the exception
with roaches. So did my sweet lovely wife
of the statue of
run screaming every time something with
David (which
multiple legs crawled out from under her
still leaves me
pillow? Nooooo, not MY Jane. She started a
cold), are not
game called “Trophy Roach.” Easy to play: she
that hot to look
just put a little marble square on the mantle
at, in general. In
and the one with the largest roach, caught,
discussions with
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VOLUME 9 • OLD CITY LIFE • ISSUE 3
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