14 PLACES TO GO OUTSIDE THIS SUMMER AWAY FROM THE BEACH
ANGELA PHILLIPS Publisher
TERESA SPENCER General Manager
JOHN PHILLIPS Vice President
KERRY SPECKMAN Copy Editor/ Writer
AMBAR RAMIREZ Creative Director
CARMEN MACRI Multi-media Creative/ Social Media Manager/ Lead Writer
SHELTON HULL Writer
AMIYAH GOLDEN Writer/Photographer
HARRY MOORE Writer
ANGELICA SANTINI Writer
EMILY CHEYENE Writer
EMILY CANON Writer
TAYLOR BROWN Account Executive/Writer BEHIND
To the Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) in Jacksonville for ranking number one on the continent. This comes from a survey performed by the JCCA of North America. The JCA is a non-profit community center geared towards enhancing the quality of life of its members by incorporating physical, recreational, educational, social and cultural opportunities in one location.
To Litterbugs, A.K.A “Scumbags” who drop trash on the ground in public places. It’s a shame that there are people who just don’t care about keeping our city, streets, parks, beaches and rivers clean. Despicable! If you witness a littering issue or illegal dumping, report it at myjax.custhelp.com or by calling 630-CITY (630-2489).
To the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and the Girl Scouts of the USA for joining forces to support Girl Scouts’ overall mental well-being. NAMI will be providing workshops for girls in grade 4-12. The workshops will help girls better understand mental wellness and provide them with skills to strengthen their resilience.
Mars orbiting in Leo calls to your creative and charismatic side, Aries. You may be starting a new job or internship, so use this Leo energy push to move forward in areas relating to media and communication. Strengthen your existing skills and be open to constructive criticism.
This June will be challenging in regard to your spending habits, Taurus. Gemini season is action packed, and while you’ll have strong urges to accept invitations to expensive restaurants or spend days roaming the mall, it would be wise to keep an eye on your bank account. You can still have a successful start to summer without blowing through your life savings.
Happy Gemini season! Though, it really is only happy for you. The twin sign brings out the worst in most people — constantly fighting an inner battle … but not you. Never you. With the sun orbiting in Gemini until June 21, this will bring out your playful and adventurous side. There are no reasons to say no to spontaneous travel plans.
The last couple of months have been hectic to say the least and the universe has no plans for easing up on you this Gemini season, Cancer. It might be time to deactivate your social media accounts for the time being and hibernate for the rest of the season. If you so choose to make a social appearance, just know we warned you.
Jupiter is flying in a high zone this season and urges you to set goals and stick to them. With Mercury entering your 11th house, you will find it easier to communicate your desires whether it be in a relationship or with your career.
Pull out the phonebook, Virgo, because this month is all about networking and stepping out into society. The Gemini season warrants a sense of confidence and communication, which will surely aid in you reaching your career goals. All of your hard work is finally paying off and the finish line is close.
When was the last time you did something out of your comfort zone, Libra? The universe has been urging you to change things up and think outside of the box. That isn’t to say you need to change your daily routine or find a new show to binge. Think originality; your creative side will thank you for it.
Let go and let god — or let the universe. You tend to harbor feelings and people. Never knowing when to let one or the other go. The Sun orbiting in Gemini will urge you to finally say goodbye to those that no longer service you. There is no reason to keep hanging onto them. The grass very well might be greener on the other side.
Things are heating up, Sagittarius, and we’re not talking about the climate. Recently, commitment hasn’t been sounding so bad and you’ve got your eyes set on a certain someone. It might be time for the adventurous Sagittarius to settle down. Don’t worry, relationships can be just as fun as being single.
Well, if it isn’t the consequences of your own actions. You may be tired of hearing it, but you will continue to hear it until you change direction. Slow down and shut up.
It’s time to take off the veil and let the world see your talents, Aquarius. Being creative comes easy to you, sharing your creativity is where you often hit a wall. Remember Aquarius, we are our own toughest critic, but art is meant to be shared. You’ll never know the outcome if you don’t try.
The tides are shifting for you, Pisces. New job opportunities are on the horizon with no real reason to decline. You may have been feeling stuck in a rut, but this season will bring out a new side of you — one not afraid of change. Take the job.
Move to a new city. Make new friends. Finish this chapter of your life and welcome the next with open arms.
I RECENTLY STARTED DATING A REALLY GREAT GUY BUT I HAVE NOT AGREED TO GET EXCLUSIVE FOR ONE REASON… HE HAS TERRIBLE MANNERS AT THE DINNER TABLE. I’VE TRIED TO GET OVER IT, BUT AM I BEING PETTY? I JUST CAN’T IMAGINE MYSELF WATCHING HIM CHEW WITH HIS MOUTH OPEN FOR MY ENTIRE LIFE. SHOULD I MOVE ON OR RISK RUINING THE GOOD TIME WE ARE HAVING BY TELLING HIM?
Darling,
First off, let’s commend you for recognizing your worth and for being in tune with what you need in a partner. Self-love is about knowing your boundaries and having the courage to stand by them. So kudos to you for not settling!
Now, let’s talk about your dining dilemma. Manners might seem trivial to some, but they’re actually quite significant. They reflect one’s upbringing, respect for others, and self-awareness. Watching someone chew with their mouth open can be a major turn-off, and it’s perfectly valid to feel that way. You’re not being petty; you’re acknowledging what disrupts your sense of comfort and pleasure—an essential part of any healthy relationship.
However, the beauty of relationships lies in communication. If this guy truly is as great as you say, a gentle conversation might be all it takes to resolve this issue. The key is to approach the topic with kindness and humor. Maybe frame it as a light-hearted observation rather than a stern critique. For instance, “I’ve noticed you really enjoy your food, but it would mean a lot to me if you could keep your mouth closed while chewing. It helps me enjoy our meals together even more.”
If he’s the right person for you, he’ll appreciate your honesty and make an effort to improve. If he dismisses your feelings or gets defensive, then it’s a sign that he might not be the considerate partner you deserve.
Ultimately, trust your instincts. Prioritize your peace and happiness. Love is about growing together, and sometimes that means addressing the small stuff to build a stronger, more fulfilling bond.
With love and confidence, Amy Love
I AM A WIDOW OF FIVE YEARS, AND I THINK I WANT TO GET BACK OUT THERE AND MAYBE START DATING BUT I DON’T WANT TO DO A TYPICAL DATING APP. I DON’T DRINK SO I DON’T GO TO BARS, AND I AM NOT A CHURCH PERSON EITHER. ANY TIPS ON HOW I SHOULD GET STARTED? PS: I AM A 40-YEAR-OLD STRAIGHT FEMALE WITH TWO TEENAGE CHILDREN.
Dear Adventurous Heart,
First, let’s celebrate your courage and readiness to open your heart again. It’s perfectly normal to feel apprehensive about re-entering the dating world, especially when the usual routes — dating apps, bars, and church groups — don’t resonate with you. But fear not! There are wonderful alternatives that align perfectly with your lifestyle and values.
Let me introduce you to a delightful option: Honey and Flame Matchmaking. This service is tailored for individuals like you who are seeking meaningful connections and a fresh start in their second act. Honey and Flame offers a personalized, hands-on approach to dating, ensuring you meet qualified individuals who have been carefully vetted through background checks. This way, you can focus on genuine compatibility and shared values without the usual guesswork.
Why choose Honey and Flame? Well, their bespoke matchmaking service goes beyond the surface, digging into the qualities that matter most to you. Whether it’s a passion for the arts, a love of the outdoors, or a desire for intellectual stimulation, Honey and Flame matches you with individuals who share your interests and lifestyle. Plus, their expert matchmakers are dedicated to understanding your unique journey and aspirations, ensuring each match is thoughtfully considered. Did I mention I am a matchmaker there???
Starting with Honey and Flame means you’ll bypass the noise and potential pitfalls of traditional dating apps. Instead, you’ll embark on a journey curated specifically for you, fostering connections that have the potential to grow into something beautiful and lasting.
Remember, stepping back into the dating world is an act of self-love and bravery. Trust in the process, stay open to new experiences, and most importantly, honor your journey and your worth.
With heart and hope, Amy Love
In a typical classroom or educational environment you expect to see notebooks, pencils, pens, highlighters, whiteboards, sticky notes and index cards. What you may not expect, unless you are taking a music class, are drums (especially when talking about a Senior Health & Wellness course). But the 9-week Brainpulse Senior Health and Wellness course with Into The Rhythm is all about the unexpected. It’s a course completely centered around using drums to facilitate in broadening the mind.
“Brainpulse is a health and wellness program that was created by neuroscientists and drumming facilitators based out of the UK and I believe Canada. It’s an interdisciplinary program that talks about brain health. So we learn about how the brain fires and wires under stress and tips to help reduce that through shared rhythmic activity and utilizing drums as a medium,” Amber Hall, founder of Into the Rhythm, shared. “Did you know that when you play an instrument it turns on your whole brain at once? It lights up your whole brain like fireworks.”
Hall has been a part of the drumming community in Northeast Florida for over 30 years and often reminisces on when she was a student how her educators used creative methods (like incorporating instruments) to teach traditional courses. Having experienced such a riveting experience with drumming and percussion, Hall only wishes to bring that same experience to the community.
“In today’s world with telephones, and specifically the internet, all these shorts and TikToks have hijacked people’s consciousness, attention span and awareness to the point that they can only handle the little 15- or 30-second blips… people don’t even read anymore like they used to,” Hall explained. “And that’s kind of crazy for what it’s doing to the brain because all the things that we do are meant to make us well-rounded, whole brain, humans capable of not only defending ourselves when need be, but fight like we’re all supposed to be able to, also supposed to be able to realize when we’re being fed a load of horsesh** and move it up to our higher logic and find answers and logical reasoning for solving problems and unifying each other. And we’re losing that ability at lightning speed as a people. So drumming is something that brings that back.”
Not only can drumming be highly beneficial for the mind, but it is also fun.
And when we’re talking about troubled teens, incarcerated individuals or seniors who have a loose grip on basic motor functions, the results of a guided course through drumming is powerful. If you don’t believe Hall on how beneficial drumming can be for healing practices, neuroscientists have done studies that highlight the benefits of drumming such as aiding in cognitive reserve reaction time, reducing stress, and improving mobility and memory retention.
“I also combine songs with my programs. For instance, in the Memory Care Trauma Ward. You know, with people that are in full dementia and Alzheimer’s, the way that I get them to experience rhythm is I put the music in front of them, and I sing songs from their era that they know, and it snaps into the part of the brain where memory is and these people come back to themselves and some of them sing songs with me and talk to me during it. And I’ve actually had the nurses come and say, ‘ou know, some of these people are nonverbal. They don’t speak for weeks at a time. But when you come, not only do they speak, they come back to themselves in the music and they sing the song,’” Hall shared. “You know, that’s what music can do for you.”
The 9-week interdisciplinary senior brain health course held at the Main Branch library in St. Augustine (for the first series) will walk through different topics and themes concerning senior health (of course) and how to reduce stress through rhythmic activity. While this specific course is geared towards seniors, Hall’s Into the Rhythm offers a variety of different programs for all ages. No instrument or percussion experience is needed, just a good attitude and the willingness to learn something new.
“We’ve got to find a way to bring people back on the same page in a non-confrontational way where they can heal and grow and become more than what we all are because we’re all here to serve each other and be here together,” Hall expressed.
To sign up for the 9-week Brainpulse Senior Health and Wellness course with Into The Rhythm, follow this link: sjcpls.org/event/drumming-with-amber-2/.
Or if you don’t fall into the senior age group but would like to expand the mind through drumming, check out intotherhythm.com.
Friday, May 31, 7:05PM YOU’RE OUTTA HERE!
As the school year winds down, why don’t you bring that soon to be departing graduate down to the ballpark for a goodbye send
In fact, send us your goodbye message and we’ll play them on the video board during the game! Additionally, enjoy Friday Night Lites with $2 12oz. Miller Lites, presented by Miller Lite, and Friday Night Fireworks
Saturday, June 1, 6:35PM HIP HOP
Sunday, June 2,
Pink Ribbon Symposium 8th Annual Butterfly
Orange Park Town Center 1stplacesports.com
1stplacesports.com
Jacksonville Sharks vs. Tulsa Oilers
Jacksonville Sharks vs. Arizona Rattlers
Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxsharks.com
Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Durham Bulls
121 Financial Ballpark milb.com/jacksonville
JUNE 2
Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Durham Bulls
121 Financial Ballpark milb.com/jacksonville
JUNE 6
Jacksonville Icemen vs. TBD
Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena
jacksonvilleicemen.com
Note: Jacksonville Icemen June dates TBD pending playoff results
Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxsharks.com
JUNE 10
Jacksonville Icemen vs. TBD
Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena
jacksonvilleicemen.com
Note: Jacksonville Icemen June dates TBD pending playoff results
JUNE 11-16
Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Indianapolis Indians
121 Financial Ballpark milb.com/jacksonville
JUNE 15
Chemo Noir 1 Mile Casa Marina 1stplacesports.com
JUNE 21
What’SUP? Run 715 Riverside Ave. 1stplacesports.com
JUNE 22
Jacksonville Sharks vs. Massachusetts Pirates
Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxsharks.com
JUNE 25-30
Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Nashville Sounds
121 Financial Ballpark milb.com/jacksonville
With Memorial Day having come and gone, we are officially diving headfirst into the summer, and what better way to enjoy the season than by getting outside and basking in the heat.
Many people will typically flock to the beach for a fresh tan and a cooling ocean during these months when the Sunshine State truly lives up to its title, and with Jacksonville’s premier location near the coast there are plenty of waterfront spots to choose from that are just a short drive away. But what about those who are a little tired of, or simply, hate the beach? After all, it is often overly crowded, the waves can be too rough and sand is coarse, irritating and gets everywhere — sometimes the beach just isn’t the escape you’re looking for. Luckily for them, Florida has many oases of natural beauty scattered across the state with several hosted in and around the Duval area. Here are some outdoor gems we think you should explore this summer:
Just north of Jacksonville, not far off I-295, the 7 Creeks Recreation Area is a paradise for nature lovers. 7 Creeks is comprised of over 5,000 acres of parks and conservations that feature a variety of unique ecosystems and some of the most glorious landscapes you can find in Northeast Florida. The area boasts a range of activities for visitors; with more than 30 miles worth of hiking trails, camping grounds, opportunities for horseback riding and seeing wildlife in their natural habitat, as well as fishing, kayaking and paddleboarding on some of the many creeks and lakes available, there is something for everyone in 7 Creeks Recreation Area.
A peaceful garden right on Jacksonville’s doorstep, the Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a Zen-filled retreat from the city. Located near the airport, the Botanical Gardens is home to a floral wonderland with an abundance of plant life able to grow unimpeded with the help of dozens of devoted volunteers. The gardens have several hiking trails that allow you to become fully engulfed in the natural beauty of the area, the gardens also offer weekly yoga classes as well as other programmed events that are sure to spur many return visits.
Visiting Ichetucknee Springs should be on every Floridian’s bucket list. The idyllic park is a bit of a drive away from Jacksonville but is definitely worth the trip. Nestled within acres of lush forest scenery, Ichetucknee features several springs that are perfect for cooling off on a hot day. There is also a natural lazy river that you can float along, letting all your troubles wash away as you relax on the water under the shade of canopy trees lining the Ichetucknee River. Renting equipment for water sports such as kayaking, paddling and tubing is offered by the park; you can even go scuba diving in the clear waters of Blue Hole spring and explore the intricate underwater cave system, which is an experience you’re unlikely to forget.
Just in case you can’t pull your friends or family too far away from the beach, Hanna Park will have you covered with the best of both worlds. Located between Mayport and Atlantic Beach, Hanna Park is easily accessible and has a lot to offer when it comes to summer fun. More than 20 miles worth of picturesque hiking trails can take you through a range of gorgeous sceneries that take you between a 60-acre lake with kayaks and canoes and a beautiful beach that is known as a prime spot for surfers. Hanna Park also has over 300 campsites that can host both tents and RVs — and there are also six cabins available to rent in the secluded woods area of the park so you can live out your horror movie fantasies. You’ll fall head over heels for this local treasure.
Another state park that offers a little something for everyone, Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park is home to a collection of springs that visitors can swim, paddle and snorkel in. There are also several hiking trails and campsites, so it is ideal for a weekend escape. Gilchrist Park also offers boat tours and wildlife viewing amenities that allow you to see a range of animals in their natural habitat from a safe distance, as well as horseback riding and stargazing. Located just outside of Gainesville, the park is the perfect place to enjoy all the pleasures that Floridian nature has to offer.
CAV IIRTAll games are general knowledge trivia unless otherwise noted.
MONDAYS
• St. Augustine Fish Company & Oyster House, 6 p.m
• V Pizza–Mandarin (music bingo), 6 p.m.
• Amici (music bingo), 7 p.m.
• Donovan’s Irish Pub, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.
• Fast Jax Trivia at 9 Ball Heaven Sports Grill & Billiards, 7 pm
• Mellow Mushroom–Durbin Park, 7 p.m.
• Mellow Mushroom–Fleming Island, 7 p.m.
• Mellow Mushroom–River City/ Northside, 7 p.m.
• Mellow Mushroom–Tinseltown, 7:30 p.m.
• Rain Dogs, 8 p.m.
• Treylor Park (pop culture), 9 p.m.
TUESDAYS
• St. Mary’s Seafood (music bingo) 6 p.m.
• Mr. Chubby’s Wings–Fleming Island (music bingo), 6:30 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–St. Aug, 6:30 p.m.
• V PIzza– St. Augustine, 6:30 p.m.
• The Back 40, 7 p.m.
• Bottlenose Brewing, 7 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–Nocatee, 7 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–San Pablo, 7 p.m.
• Gator’s Dockside–Oakleaf, (music bingo), 7 p.m.
• Harps American Grill, 7 p.m.
• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Atlantic Boulevard, 7 p.m.
• Island Wing Company–Bartram, 7 p.m.
• Jax Craft Beer, 7 p.m.
• Jerry’s Sports Grille, 7 p.m.
• Miller’s Ale House–Deerwood, 7 p.m.
• My Tap Room (pop culture), 7 p.m.
• Players Grille, 7 p.m.
• Southern Grill, 7 p.m.
• Surfside Kitchen, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.
• V Pizza–Fernandina (music bingo), 7 p.m.
• Xtreme Wings Sports Bar and Grille, St. Johns, 7 p.m.
• Culhane’s Irish Pub–Southside, 7:30 p.m.
• Flask & Cannon / V Pizza (pop culture), 7:30 p.m.
• King Maker Brewing (name that tune), 7:30 p.m.
• Lynch’s Irish Pub (music bingo), 7:30 p.m.
• Monkey’s Uncle Tavern, 7:30 p.m.
• Time Out Sports Bar, 7:30 p.m.
• Tepeyolot Cerveceria, 7:30 p.m.
• Casbah Cafe, 8 p.m.
• Sahara Cafe, 8 p.m.
• Shantytown Pub, 8:30 p.m.
• Surfer the Bar (pop culture trivia), 9:30 p.m.
WEDNESDAYS
• Mr. Chubby’s Wings–Ponte Vedra (music bingo), 6:30 p.m.
• V Pizza–Mandarin, 6:30 p.m.
• The Beacon, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.
• Bold City Brewery, 7 p.m.
• Cruisers Grill, 7 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–Nocatee, 7 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–Mandarin, 7 p.m.
• El Jefe, 7 p.m.
• Firefly Bay, 7 p.m.
• Ink Factory Brewing, 7 p.m.
• Island Wing–Bartram (music bingo) 7 p.m.
• Island Wing–Southside, 7 p.m.
• Mellow Mushroom–Avondale, 7 p.m.
• Miller’s Ale House–Hodges, 7 p.m.
• Mellow Mushroom–Jacksonville Beach, 7 p.m.
• Scarlett O’Hara’s, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.
• Shaughnessy’s Sports Grill, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.
• V Pizza–Fleming Island, 7 p.m.
• V Pizza–Fernandina, 7 p.m.
• V Pizza–Palm Valley, 7 p.m.
• Veterans United Craft Brewery, 7 p.m.
• Burrito Gallery–Town Center (pop culture), 7:30 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–Fleming Island, 7:30 p.m.
• Harps American Grill (pop culture), 7:30 p.m.
• Hoptinger–5 Points, 7:30 p.m.
• Hoptinger–Jacksonville Beach, 7:30 p.m.
• Hurricane Grill–Fleming Island, 7:30 p.m.
• King Maker Brewing, 7:30 p.m.
• Time Out Sports Grill, 7:30 p.m
• Wicked Barley Brewing, 7:30 p.m.
• The Brix Taphouse (pop culture trivia), 8 p.m.
• Hamburger Mary’s (drag bingo, 21+), 8 p.m.
THURSDAYS
• Ann O’Malley’s Irish Pub, 7 p.m.
• Bold City Brewery, 7 p.m.
• Bottlenose Brewing, 7 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–Atlantic Boulevard, 7 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings– Nocatee (name that tune), 7 p.m.
• Justice Pub (music bingo), 7 p.m.
• Island Wing Company–Southside (music bingo), 7 p.m.
• Kava and Company–San Marco (every other Thursday), 7 p.m.
• Miller’s Ale House–Avenues, 7 p.m.
• Mr. Chubby’s Wings–Ponte Vedra, 7 p.m.
• The Stout Snug, 7 p.m.
• V Pizza– Fernandina (what’s that song), 7 p.m.
• Burrito Gallery–Brooklyn (’80s, ’90s & 2000s), 7:30 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings– St. Aug, 7:30 p.m.
• Flask & Cannon / V Pizza, 7:30 p.m.
• V Pizza–San Marco, 7:30 p.m.
• Hoptinger–Jax Beach (music bingo), 8 p.m.
FRIDAYS
• Engine 15 Brewing, 7 p.m.
• MVP’s Sports Grille, 7 p.m.
• Tepeyolot Cerveceria, 7:30 p.m.
SATURDAYS
• Hamburger Mary’s (HamBingo), 2 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–Atlantic Boulevard, 7 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–San Pablo (pop culture), 7p.m.
• Ink Factory Brewing (name that tune), 7 p.m.
• Bottlenose Brewing (name that tune), 7:30 p.m.
JUNE 8
Girls Inc of Jacksonville Community Festival Parkwood Heights Elementary eventbrite.com
JUNE 14
L.O.V.E Fest 221 Riverside Ave. eventbrite.com
JUNE 14
Juneteenth Grill Giveaway 410 Broad St. eventbrite.com
JUNE 14
Johnson YMCA Family Reunion Johnson YMCA facebook.com/groups/JohnsonFamilyYMCA
JUNE 15
Melanin Market Juneteenth Celebration A Philip Randolph Blvd. melanincollaborativegroup.org
Voice of My People: Juneteenth 2024 St. John’s Cathedral jaxcathedral.org
Juneteenth Heritage Luncheon and Celebration St. Augustine lincolnvillemuseum.org
Brothers Brunch Foundation “Juneteenth/Father’s Day Fellowship” Memorial Park unation.com
JUNE 18
Juneteenth Mini Resource Fair 7825 Baymeadows Way sba.gov/event/46953
JUNE 19
Ritz Chamber Players: Juneteenth: Celebrate Freedom Terry Concert Hall ritzplayers.org
“100 Years of Rhapsody in Blue: New Orleans Meets Harlem” Flagler College–Lewis Auditorium flagler.edu
JUNE 21
Juneteenth & Paint! Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jacksonvillecenterfortheperformingarts.com
On May 2 the Florida Museum of Black History Task Force announced St. Augustine as its recommendation for the location of the state’s upcoming exhibit.
The task force panel required proposals for the planning, construction, operation and administration of the museum from qualifying cities in Florida. The museum’s location has been in debate since Governor Ron DeSantis signed it into law last May. The state’s concern is perpetual funding and leaders are delegating the decision to find the best contending city that can fund and sustain the museum long term.
St. Augustine proposes itself as a proper choice because of the historical and geographical significance it holds which, in return, would enable continuous funding and other opportunities. Additionally, the surrounding counties of the Northeast Florida region support the St. Johns County location and have committed to leveraging their funds and resources for the asset.
Residents of St. Johns County are overjoyed by the recommendation. Albert Syeles, president of the St. Augustine EpiCentre Alliance, believes the museum will have a large social and economical impact on the region. It will provide jobs as well as educational and research opportunities for the community.
The county’s approved proposal outlines St. Augustine’s plan to construct a campus-style museum that will include a performing arts facility. This is Syeles’ main interest in the development as he sees the need for a performing arts center in St. Augustine and he believes it will be a wonderful opportunity to showcase the city’s important Black history.
The city was a prominent player in the Civil Rights Acts of 1964 being a location for lunch sit-ins, marches and demonstration events that would push then-President Lyndon B. Johnson to sign the act into law. It was also home to one of the nation’s most important civil rights movement landmarks, the Monson Motor Lodge. Furthermore, St. Augustine is a part of Martin Luther King Jr.’s journey as he took part in requesting service from a segregated restaurant which resulted in his arrest in June of 1964. Former St. Johns County Sheriff David Shoar noted in “The St. Augustine Record” that King’s night in jail is an important part of the county’s history. The city’s proposal also emphasized that it is home to Fort Mose, a national landmark that is recognized as the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in the United States in the 1700s.
St. Augustine plans to locate the museum on a 14.2 acre sugar plantation that would be leased to the county by the Florida Memorial University. The plantation relied on slave labor to operate which is relevant history for the site of the museum. The city reported 10.2 million tourists in 2023 and would house the museum on the west side of town, making it one hour from Interstate 4 and 90 minutes from Interstate 75, both major highways for travelers.
Expected to cost between $100 million and $200 million, the museum is still in development, and the task force must submit its final report by July 1. Construction will begin once the Florida Legislature signs off on the recommendation.
by
THROUGH JUNE 2
“A Doll’s House Part 2” Limelight Theatre limelight-theatre.org
THROUGH JUNE 9
“Beauty and The Beast” The Island Theater, Fleming Island theislandtheater.com
THROUGH JUNE 16
“Boeing-Boeing” Alhambra Theatre & Dining alhambrajax.com
JUNE 1-22
“Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella” Orange Park Community Theatre opct.info
JUNE 3
Broadway and Brew Blue Fire Theatre, Yulee bluefiretheatre.org
JUNE 4
Celtic Throne Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
JUNE 7-22
“First Date” Amelia Community Playhouse, Fernandina Beach ameliacommunitytheatre.org
JUNE 7-23
“SHOUT! The Mod Musical” Theatre Jacksonville theatrejax.com
“The Other Place” Players by the Sea Theatre abetjax.com
JUNE 7-9
“Twilight: Los Angeles 1992” CoRk Studios–BABS’ Lab barbaracolaciello.com
JUNE 9
Jacksonville Centre of the Arts Danceology & Quantum Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
JUNE 14-JULY 7
“Always A Bridesmaid” Limelight Theatre limelight-theatre.org
JUNE 14-23
“Be More Chill” The Island Theater, Fleming Island theislandtheater.com
JUNE 15
June Story Slam: “Roots and Routes” CoRk Studios–BABS’ Lab barbaracolaciello.com
“Rights of a Father” Premiere Ritz Theatre & Museum ritzjacksonville.com
JUNE 19-20
“Bluey’s Big Play” Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts fscjartistseries.org
JUNE 29
“Disney’s Winnie the Pooh KIDS” Amelia Community Theatre ameliacommunitytheatre.org
When an A-list movie star goes missing from the set of his latest film, his lowly stunt double is tasked with tracking him down and saving the movie. The newest film from stuntman turned director David Leitch is an ode to the often-ignored men and women of his former profession packed with sequences that demonstrate their talents to their full extent, The Fall Guy positions itself as a kind of a throwback to blockbusters of years past relying on supremely executed stunt choreography and the charismatic charms of an A list movie star.
For over a decade now, Ryan Gosling has been the cinephile’s choice for modern leading men. Gosling’s choices on which projects to pursue and what to pass on reveal a genuine love for the medium and unique taste that has allowed him to build a body of work that is diverse, distinctive, and almost always interesting. As a performer, Gosling has shown incredible range without ever having to go for a method-based transformation; the number of actors who would be able to not betray their on-screen persona while convincingly pulling off performances in both Drive and La La Land is few and far between. After years of well regarded, but often underperforming passion projects, Gosling has veered headfirst into the blockbuster realm, first with Netflix’s forgettable spy thriller The Gray Man, and then stealing the show as Ken in the sensation that was Greta Gerwig’s Barbie. As Colt Seavers in The Fall Guy, Gosling steps up to take the lead in a blockbuster designed to kick off the summer movie season and largely excels at elevating a script that often stumbles in some of the pitfalls that pervade many modern event films. Where the crutch of excessive, quippy adlibs is often grating coming from the mouths of other (possibly Canadian) actors (who may also be named Ryan), Gosling makes it land and feel a piece with the character. Though this performance could be seen as somewhat of a vanilla rehash of his landmark comedic turn in The Nice Guys, Gosling still shows his leading man qualifications with his likable presence and handling of action, humor, and romance that is required of the position. Opposite him, Emily Blunt stars as the foil and love interest Jody, giving a reliably capable, if largely unmemorable, performance, which has become a bit of a hallmark of her career. The supporting cast all play their roles well, with Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Hannah Waddingham, and Winston Duke making their mark and sharing winning chemistry with Gosling.
Stunt work has been a critical aspect of filmmaking since its inception, preceding sound, color, and digital effects by many years, so celebrating them with a big spectacle event movie is the least the industry could do for them – though a category for stunts at the Oscars should be higher on their to-do list. The Fall Guy is a fun action-comedy that is elevated by a movie star who is at the top of his class.
Luca Guadagnino’s sports drama follows the complexly entangled relationship between three burgeoning pro tennis players, detailing how their personal and professional ups and downs reveal their competitive natures go much further than just on the court. When it comes to making tra nsgressive dramas about messy relationships with a decisively contemporary perspective, Luca Guadagnino is in a league of his own. Upon its release Call Me by Your Name quickly became a coming-of-age classic as a tender love story about sexual discovery, while Bones and All is a dark parable for the intense emotions of a first love. Guadagnino has repeatedly shown his knack for capturing the turmoil of the relationships of young people and Challengers is ano ther subversive take on this theme.
Told through overlapping timelines between the bygone era of 2006 and 2019, the film is led by a finely calibrated performance by Zendaya who stars as Tashi, a once-promising tennis phenom whose career is cut short before it even begins. Tashi is also at the center of a love triangle between childhood best friends, and former doubles partners, Patrick Zweig (Josh O’Connor) and Art Donaldson (Mike Faist), with both boys vying for her affection over the years. The story spans between when the two boys first meet Tashi, and a US Open Challenger tournament that has proven to be critical for both men to win as they face off with one another after years of competitiveness and resentment have driven them apart. Guadagnino and his editor Marco Costa do an excellent job of weaving these timelines to maximize the dramatic effect of the story and to influence the audiences shifting sympathies for the characters, as each revelation of a past dalliance or betrayal alters our perception of the dynamic and who we are rooting for to succeed. The charact ers’ personalities are clearly drawn which sets them up well for sparks to fly when they collide into each other. Patrick is confident and laidback while Art is more anxious and calculating. Early on Patrick repels us as his boisterous personality quickly veers into smarminess, however, Art’s duplicitous actions to try to draw Tashi’s gaze away from his longtime friend makes Patrick feel positively charming by comparison. As Patrick, Josh O’Connor largely steals the show giving an incredibly charismatic performance that fills the frame; that he manages to find a way to make this seemingly slimy character remotely endearing speaks to his capabilities as a performer. Mike Faist also does well to bring Art to life, making him the film’s most believable character in the face of the larger-than-life personalities of Patrick and Tashi. Zendaya does her best with the material, she is an incredibly talented actor and it will be interesting to see what type of roles she takes on as she attempts to ascend to leading on the silver screen, and while she shines playing the younger Tashi, I felt she currently lacks the maturity as a performer to pull off the older, more jaded version of the character. Which isn’t a discredit to what she does well in the film, such as making Tashi so incredibly poised and effervescent that it is believable that she could come between two lifelong friends, but playing a character whose story spans many years is an incredible challenge for any actor. The film is a decisively modern one in many respects. Thematically, its handling of sexuality is very reflective of millennial and Gen Z attitudes with the subtext of Art and Patrick having a strong current of infatuation simmering beneath their friendship being layered on so thick that it is genuinely surprising that it doesn’t play into the story itself. Beyond the portrayal of his characters, Guadagnino also makes bold choices in his filmmaking; the editing is propulsive throughout the film and every shot is artistically designed and captured, taking more cues from Nike commercials than from other films. Musically, the film is also operating at a high level with rockstars turned preeminent composers Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross delivering a pulsating score that dominates many scenes and takes cues from techno, creating music that stands on its own away from the film. The choices for songs are also eclectic and well-observed for signaling the time and place a scene is taking place in, with Nelly’s “Hot In Here” and Lily Allen’s “Smile” dropping in scenes that take place a long, long time ago in the mid-2000s.
Challengers is a unique film in the current cinematic landscape, an enthralling and often intoxicating drama that is definitively made for a more adult audience that is about little more than seduction and a love for the game.
The third annual Duval Comics and Zine Festival (DCAZ) takes place at the Main Library Downtown on Saturday, June 15, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The event is being run by two of my favorite people ever: author and publisher Lindsay Anderson and musician/author Dawn Watley, who’s also a member of Jacksonville’s own Black Kids, two of whose members are former “Folio” staffers–small world! There will be discussion groups, a risograph printer, and even a build-your-own-zine section where you can learn all the necessary skills, and put them to work in real-time.
Inspired by this city’s own legacy in the genre, the Jacksonville Public Library built its own zine collection over a decade ago, and it’s now one of the largest of its type anywhere in the world. Much of this material was never meant to be saved; it dates from an era where permanence was rarely considered, pre-internet, when most of today’s archival storage methods were not yet in common use. Jacksonville has a long, legendary roster of librarians who are/were artists and musicians in their own right, and the building’s contents largely reflect their own values and interests.
DCAZ also offers a great opportunity to look through the zine collection, as well as some of the other unique features of the facility. There’s a green screen area, as well as a 3D printing station. The top floor contains their gorgeous map collection, as well as the Memory Lab, where you can digitize your old pictures, negatives, VHS tapes, Super 8 film, vinyl records and other archival materials, for free — an invaluable resource for all generations.
The history of zines in Jacksonville goes back nearly to the earliest days of the art-form itself. Zines can be viewed in a lineage that includes the earliest pamphleteers and propagandists of the American way. The whole idea of cutting and pasting can be traced back (so to speak) to the experiments of William S Burroughs and Brion Gysin in Tangier in the 1950s, and you can see elements of that in some of the flyers and posters for punk shows then, and you’ll still see that exact style being used today.
Politics were always inherent to the genre, but the way we think of zines
really goes back to maybe the 1970s, with punk rock and the do it yourself ethos that animated the spirit of that generation, a spirit that remains central to American culture, in particular, as it relates to art and music. Zines were particularly vital in helping to bypass the traditional media filters in regard to minority interests, women’s issues, LGBTQIA rights, as well as leftist politics and other modes of social and political activism. The alt-weekly genre, of which Folio itself is a big part of the history, is essentially a cousin of the zines that service those communities.
You used to be able to pick up the newest zines at long-gone locations like Theory Shop, Fuel Coffeehouse, Stripmine Records and countless others. Chamblin still exists, but most of the others don’t. We had zines like Truckstop, Dare and Section 8 (which I founded back in 1999), and many others that only did an issue or two. Pages typed out, cut up with scissors and reassembled and recontextualized with glue sticks and Scotch tape. The old heads used printing presses and mimeograph machines; we used old copy machines at places like Kinkos and Office Depot, often scammed or pilfered or otherwise generated via “the hookup.” We’d staple them up and split the stash into our backpacks and like peddle zines like corner boys, a dollar each, but usually for free. I still see them in people’s collections, now and then.
Once social media really took hold, zines sort of fell into obscurity, which was tough because it was always very obscure. It requires a level of patience and deliberation that is anathema to our modern sensibilities, and those with such tendencies typically put their energies into something more computer-related. But that has changed, and a lot of that is due to the efforts of Lindsay Anderson, creator of the two best zines in this region in the past 20 years. The first was River City Raunch, a down and dirty discourse on hookup culture in the River City, and the second is Mischief on the River, inspired by a saying from the late great Kim Pitts. Issue No. 3 is currently in production, with original cover art by Jason Wright, and contributions from some of the city’s coolest creators, as well as a bunch of new talent receiving their first public exposure. And that, more than anything else, is what the genre is all about.
JUNE 1
Jackie Fabulous Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
JUNE 7-9
Bruce Bruce Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
Clean Comedy Series with Wes Johnson & Bobby Parker
Murray Hill Theatre murrayhilltheatre.com
First Coast Comedy
The Main Event, 7:30 p.m.
Adult Show (21+ only), 10 p.m. First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com
Al Ernst
Cristy B Comedy Club, Palm Coast cristybcomedy.com
JUNE 2
Sammy Obeid Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
JUNE 5
River City Comedy Showcase Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
JUNE 7
Ali Siddiq Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Trae Crowder Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com
Michael Harrison
Cristy B Comedy Club, Palm Coast cristybcomedy.com
JUNE 7-8
First Coast Comedy
The Main Event, 7:30 p.m.
Adult Show (21+ only), 10 p.m. First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com
JUNE 8
Tag-Team Comedy with Al Snow & David Vox Mullen
World Golf Village Renaissance Resort, St. Augustine rivercitywrestlingcon.com
Comedy at the Collective Cultured Collective Brewing Co., Orange Park facebook.com/culturedcollectivefl
Mark Allen
Cristy B Comedy Club, Palm Coast cristybcomedy.com
JUNE 13-15
Southern Mama Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
JUNE 14-15
Jimmie “JJ” Walker
Cristy B Comedy Club, Palm Coast cristybcomedy.com
First Coast Comedy
The Main Event, 7:30 p.m. Adult Show (21+ only), 10 p.m. First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com
JUNE 15
Don’t Tell Comedy Somewhere in the Railyard District donttellcomedy.com
JUNE 17-19
Rickey Smiley Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
JUNE 21
Bear Webb
Cristy B Comedy Club, Palm Coast cristybcomedy.com
JUNE 21-22
First Coast Comedy
The Main Event, 7:30 p.m.
Adult Show (21+ only), 10 p.m.
First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com
JUNE 21-23
Tommy Davidson Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
JUNE 22
Nate Jackson Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Adam Lowery
Cristy B Comedy Club, Palm Coast cristybcomedy.com
JUNE 23
Dale Elliott Jr. Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxevents.com
JUNE 26
Steve O Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
JUNE 28-29
Annie Lederman Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
First Coast Comedy
The Main Event, 7:30 p.m.
Adult Show (21+ only), 10 p.m.
First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com
JUNE 29
TK Kirkland
Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxevents.com
The time has finally come! The re-opening of Beach Bowl is right around the corner, with a soft-open scheduled for June 17, and here is what we have to look forward to.
This Jacksonville staple, around for over 60 years, was due for some significant renovations and a nice facelift. Fortunately, the Jacksonville Beach Board of Adjustment approved the $7.5 million restoration plans in February 2021. These plans included a 6,200-square-foot addition featuring a two-story restaurant and a rooftop bar — what more could Jax Beach ask for? Well, a lot more.
I spoke with marketing manager Allison Murphy about what to expect with the rebranding of Beach Bowl — and we are in for a treat.
“Everything is completely brand new — the only thing left over from the original Beach Bowl is the ‘Bowl’ from the sign,” Murphy explained. “Features include the rooftop bar, an arcade, multiple bars, VIP lanes, event spaces and more”
If you follow their Instagram account, you’ve seen a few sneak peeks — like the bowling lanes being named after the iconic Jacksonville Beach avenues or the very, very updated arcade with games suited for all ages.
“We were really just focused on creating a place at the Beaches for people of all ages to come and have a good time, great food and even better customer service,” Murphy said.
If the rooftop bar, arcade and brand-new bowling lanes don’t catch your eye, perhaps the daily all-day specials will—like half-off drinks on Wednesdays.
Photo by @firstcoastcreative
“We were really just focused on creating a place at the beaches for people of all ages to come and have a good time, great food, and even better customer service,” Murphy said.
And the deals aren’t just for food and drinks; there are also bowling and arcade specials for those looking for some wholesome fun. (Though, I’ll definitely be there every Wednesday.) While their focus is to make Beach Bowl a bit more upscale, they still offer family-friendly prices.
“We wanted the new Beach Bowl to be a little bit more upscale than the original, and we’re focused on being the spot for all things entertainment, not just a bowling alley. We have family-friendly pricing with a lot of combo deals on bowling, arcade cards, drinks, food,and more,” Murphy explained. “With our opening, we’re really prioritizing excellent service, excellent food and cocktails and excellent bowling, all while keeping family entertainment at the forefront. There will be some spe
cials and promotions, you’ll have to come in to check them out.”
The only downside? They won’t be hosting any leagues for now, which puts a damper on my summer plans, but that’s OK. They’re focusing on family entertainment to ensure the lanes are available for everyone to enjoy, but that could change.
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With the sun shining brightly and the waves rolling gently onto the shore, Jacksonville Beach is a hotspot for beachgoers year-round. Curious about what makes a perfect beach day for locals, we took to the sands to ask residents what they packed in their beach bags. The variety of answers painted a picture of relaxation, fun and preparedness unique to Floridians.
Many ask “But why Jacksonville Beach?” Well some of the locals and beach goers explained that they love the environment and proximity of essentials for the beach around Jax beach some of the stuff that you would not find in a beach nearby. “St. Augustine Beach just has too many shells. It hurts my feet when walking into the water” stated Kaylee Mildenberger when asked why she preferred Jacksonville Beach.
Unsurprisingly, sun protection topped the list of beach essentials. Floridians know the importance of safeguarding against the intense sun. Sunscreen was the most mentioned item, with SPF 50 being the popular choice. Given that UV rays at Jacksonville Beach during the summer often reach levels as high as 10, wearing SPF 50 has become essential for Floridians who spend a lot of time outdoors in the sun.
Emily Hansen shared, “I never leave home without my sunscreen and tanning lotion. The Florida sun can be brutal, and it’s important to stay protected. I also bring aloe vera gel just in case I do get a little too much sun. Meanwhile, under the sun I might get a tan here and there. That’s why I use a tanning lotion to speed up the process to not stay under the sun for too long.”
Comfort was another priority with many residents bringing items to create a cozy and functional beach setup. Beach chairs, umbrellas, and large towels were standard. Some even had portable beach tents. Furthermore, with these main items beachgoers tend to be well-prepared with food and drinks, especially water bottles. Staying hydrated is key. As for snacks, fruits like watermelon and grapes were popular for their refreshing quality. Multiple respondents stated that they tend to bring “Pub subs” from their local Publix grocery store since it’s an easy fix for a beach snack. Many also brought along sandwiches, chips, and sweets to keep their energy up.
To keep boredom at bay, beach bags were stocked with entertainment. Books and e-readers were popular among those looking to relax. For the more active types, beach games like frisbees, paddleball sets and volleyballs were common. “We love playing beach reading and going out surfing,” said Elli Huber and Emily Hansen. “It’s a great way to stay active and have fun together.” For families, sand toys were a must. Buckets, shovels and molds for building sandcastles were mentioned frequently.
Some items were unique and spoke to the personal touch of each beachgoer. One resident, Mike, brought a portable Bluetooth speaker for music, saying it added to the beach vibe. Another, Linda, had a journal and pens, explaining that the beach was her favorite place to write and reflect. Mike and Linda both conveyed: “The beach brings us peace. The kids get to play in the water and the sand. While we get to do some of our favorite hobbies, whether it is reading, listening to music or writing.”
Growing up in Florida, trips to the beach have been a cornerstone of my life. My earliest memories are filled with the scent of saltwater, the warmth of the sun and the joy of building sandcastles with my family. Over the years, I’ve perfected my own list of beach essentials, combining practical needs with personal touches that make each visit special.
1. High-SPF Sunscreen and Lip Balm: Like many locals, I never underestimate the Florida sun. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 50 is a must, along with SPF 30 lip balm to prevent chapped lips.
2. Hydration Pack: Staying hydrated is crucial. I carry a large, reusable water bottle and often freeze it overnight so it stays cold longer. I usually bring my Stanley, since it keeps my ice and water cold for a long time period.
3. Portable Beach Chair and Umbrella: Comfort is key, so I always bring a lightweight, foldable chair and a sturdy beach umbrella. These provide a perfect spot to relax and escape the sun when needed.
4. Quick-Dry Towels and Blankets: Quick-dry towels are a game-changer, especially when you’re hopping in and out of the water. A large, soft blanket is perfect for lounging and picnicking.
5. Snacks and a Cooler: Fresh fruits, trail mix and a couple of sandwiches are my go-to snacks. A small cooler keeps everything fresh and doubles as a seat or table.
6. Books and a Journal: Reading by the waves is one of my favorite pastimes. I always bring a good book or two and a journal for jotting down thoughts or sketching the scenery.
7. Beach Games and Toys: Whether I’m with friends or family, a volleyball, paddleball set and a few sandcastle molds always find their way into my bag. They’re great for staying active and having fun.
8. Tech Essentials: My waterproof phone case and portable charger ensure I can take photos and stay connected without worrying about damage. A small Bluetooth speaker adds a soundtrack to my day.
9. Hair Products: Since I have curly hair, my maintenance for my hair after a long beach day is very important. My hair tends to get tangled easily after the beach especially if I go in the water. First, I tend to use my Denman brush to detangle my hair, then I use a deep conditioner to get moisture back into my hair. Lastly, I use my leave-in conditioner so that my hair maintains detangled and easy to style.
10. Reusable Bags and Trash Bags: I bring a few reusable bags for carrying wet items and trash bags to ensure I leave the beach as clean as I found it.
From sun protection to entertainment, Jacksonville Beach residents know how to pack for a perfect day on the sand. Whether it’s the basic necessities or personal touches that make the day special, each beach bag tells a story of relaxation, fun, and the laid-back Florida lifestyle.
So next time you’re planning a beach trip, take a cue from the locals — and from my own well-honed list. Pack smart, stay safe and most important, immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of sun, sea and sand. Who knows? You might discover your own unique beach essentials that turn a simple trip to the shore into an unforgettable adventure.
THE ART CENTER COOPERATIVE
• “Nifty Over Sixty,” through July 12 tacjacksonville.org
BEACHES MUSEUM
• “Exalted Shores: The Work of Clint Burbridge and Tom Schifnella,” June 7-Sept. 29 beachesmuseum.org
BUTTERFIELD GARAGE ART GALLERY
• “Influences: A Community Event,” through June 30 butterfieldgarage.com
THE CORNER GALLERY AT THE JESSIE
• “Sarah Crooks: The Long Way(t) Home,” through Aug. 21 movingthemargins.org
CUMMER MUSEUM OF ART & GARDENS
• Jacksonville’s Norman Studios: Movie Posters from the Permanent Collection, through July 7
• Works on Paper from the Cummer Museum’s Collection, through Sept. 30
• “Mick Namarari Tjapaltjarri: Mysteries that Remain,” through Jan. 12 cummermuseum.org
FEMART GALLERY
• “The Art of Inclusion,” through June 30 femartgallery.org
FIRST COAST CULTURAL CENTER
• “Jessica Pinsky: Textile Sculptural Creations,” through July 5 firstcoastculturalcenter.org
GALLERY 725
• “From Stage to Canvas with Artist and Drummer John Douglas,” June 14-16 gallery725.com
GOVERNOR’S HOUSE CULTURAL CENTER AND MUSEUM, ST. AUGUSTINE
• “Painting St. Augustine: Selections from the Samuel H. and Roberta T. Vickers Collection,” ongoing
• “Freedom Is Not Free: Ax Handle Saturday,” virtual exhibition staugustine.ufl.edu
HASKELL GALLERY AT JACKSONVILLE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT jaxairportarts.com
HILLARY WHITAKER GALLERY hwhitakergallery.com
JACKSONVILLE UNIVERSITY
• ”Bill Davis: No Dark in Sight,” virtual exhibition
• “Kristin Skees: Close Knit,” virtual exhibition ju.edu/cfa
THE LIGHTNER MUSEUM
• “75 for 75: Lightner Museum Diamond Anniversary Exhibition,” ongoing
• “Illuminate: Lightner Museum’s Stained Glass Rediscovered,” ongoing
• “St. Augustine Through the Lens of William Henry Jackson,” ongoing lightnermuseum.org
MOCA JACKSONVILLE
• “A Walk on the Wild Side,” through June 30
• “Project Atrium: Frank Stella,” through July 21
• “Elysa Adams: Voices of Moncrief,” through Sept. 8 mocajacksonville.unf.edu
PASTA FINE ART GALLERY
• Works by David Fain, Pam Geiger, Linda F. Hawkins, Tracy Lavely, Ginny LeJeune, Rafael Pasarell, Marlene Zullig and others pastagalleryart.com
RITZ THEATRE & MUSEUM
• “Lift Ev’ry Voice,” permanent collection
• “Malcolm Jackson and Weldon Ryan: Coastlines,” through Nov. 6 ritzjacksonville.com
SOUTHLIGHT GALLERY southlightgallery.com
ST. AUGUSTINE ART ASSOCIATION
• “Reflections,” through June 2
• Honors Show, June 7-July 7 staaa.org
STELLERS GALLERY
• Works by Eileen Corse, Jim Draper, MacTruque, Fallon Pepper, C. Ford Riley, Alice Williams, Jeff Foxworthy (yes, that Jeff Foxworthy) and more stellersgallery.com
THRASHER-HORNE CENTER GALLERY
• Works by Thomas H. Nagata, Yamel Molerio and John Gerstner, ongoing thcenter.org
TOUCHÉ GALLERY touchegallery.com
UNIVERSITY OF NORTH FLORIDA unf.edu/gallery
THE VAULT AT 330
• Featured artists include Susan Astleford, Margena Burnett, Ellen Dia mond, Ed Hall, Dolf James, Harry McCormick and Denise Murphy thevaultat1930.com
YELLOW HOUSE
• “Sit in Stand Up,” virtual exhibition
• “Still Not About a Hotdog and a Coke,” virtual exhibition
• “Magic, Mirth, and Mortality: Musings on Black Motherhood,” virtual exhibition yellowhouseart.org
ONGOING
Art Walk: June 5
Downtown Jacksonville lights up the first Wednesday of the month with art by local artists at hubs in James Weldon Johnson Park, The Jessie and Vag abond Flea at VyStar Tower from 5–9 p.m. Visitors can also enjoy live music, food trucks, street performers, free admission to MOCA and complimentary rides on JTA’s Skyway. dtjax.org
Fernandina Beach Arts Market: June 8 and 22
Amelia Island’s premier arts and crafts market comes alive the second and fourth Saturday of every month from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. fernandinabeachartsmarket.com
Riverside Arts Market: June 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29
Artists, artisans and makers display their original paintings, jewelry, photo graphs, prints and other handcrafted items every Saturday — rain or shine — from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Riverside Avenue underneath the canopy of the Fuller Warren Bridge. riversideartsmarket.com
St. Augustine First Friday Artwalk: June 7
On the first Friday of every month (hence the clever name), more than 30 galleries around the Oldest City open their doors from 5–9 p.m. for visitors to browse exhibits and interact with artists. A complimentary trolley service provides transportation between downtown venues. staaa.org
Vilano Beach Artisan Market: June 15
Part beach party, part arts market, this monthly event includes works by local artists and locally-made products, as well as live music. The market takes place on the third Saturday of every month from 4-8 p.m. on A1A and Vilano Road.
A six-episode limited series that explores jazz voices from the past, present and future.
HOSTED BY Keanna Faircloth and Ulysses Owens, Jr.
PRESENTS SUNDAYS AT 7PM ON WJCT NEWS 89.9 & 10AM on The Independent 89.9 HD4
Words & photos by Amiyah Golden
Dynamism, inclination, proficiency and soul all come together and embrace the talent that oozes out of local Jacksonville singer Mar.
His name alone precedes him as I’ve heard it circulate through various artist circles — always met with great acclaim — but I finally was able to hear him for myself and was blown away.
I was captured by a melodic and sincere spiel accompanied by Mar’s vocal propensity, turning me into an instant fan! I recently got to sit down with the singer to talk about his journey as an independent artist.
Growing up in a household that nurtured art and attending performing arts schools — such as LaVilla and Douglas Anderson — Mar unearthed his creativity abilities early on. Mar focused on visual art during much of his schooling with his preteen aspirations being to create a video game, write a manga or animate a show. His interests weren’t limited to visual arts, though, as he taught himself piano at a young age — and snuck his way into advanced violin in third grade as he never played before but taught himself and “stretched the truth” just a little. Definitely no harm done as his ability to learn music by ear (an insane feat in itself) further equipped him with additional musical skills.
“I would hear a song on a show, an anime or a video game, and I would think, ‘I can recreate this,’” said Mar.
His mom vouching for its accuracy, shocked that he was able to recreate these sounds off of just listening to the original.
“OK, Shazam,” Mar quotes his mother.
His exploration of instruments naturally led him to singing, previously a hidden talent that wasn’t uncovered until highschool.
“Going into high school one day I was like you know what, I want to sing,” said Mar.
Revealing this to his mom came with slight astonishment but support nonetheless.
Singing was just another skill added to the never ending toolbox of this multifaceted artist. His additional abilities to produce his own music, write, draw, and sing continue to reinforce his starpower.
A natural keen sense to understand musical molecularly has aided to his artistry, as well as his vast appreciation for fellow artists such as Willow, Cleo Sol and India Shawn, among others.
Growing up, his musical exploration was self described as a “mixed bag” with his mom fostering a strict listening environment of gospel music with artists
such as Kierra Sheard and Mali Music and his dad listening to Eminem, Jay-Z, and Kanye with some alternative nods to bands such as Panic at the Disco and Paramore. These genres like gospel and alternative rock would serve as some present-day inspiration. As well as, Paramore specifically being a current source of influence.
Mar’s sound can be described as “new alternative R&B.”
With soul being at the forefront, it doesn’t limit Mar’s creative facility that many R&B artists are often confined under rigid constraints of what they’re expected to produce.
Many artists are beginning to break the binary when it comes to upholding the involuntary illusioned structure of expectation when it comes to genre.
With Mar still championing R&B, it paves way for potential unexpectant production, time signatures, and alternative influence.
“If you listen to my past two projects, it might be a mixed bag of tricks. You might describe it as pop, you might describe it as alt,” he explained.
With Mar being the author, the character and the witness of his music, the change is inevitable as he continues to evolve and greet the escapades of life.
“I started producing music and putting it out my senior year of high school,” he recalled. “It wasn’t like I really knew what I wanted to make, whereas now it’s been this rediscovery.”
Whatever the classification, the common denominator seems to be romance, as a self-proclaimed lover boy, his songs are translated tales of his own continuance, which is one reason why he resonates with the R&B genre so well.
“My songs are my stories,” he said. “I prefer to write from my own experience.”
His songs like “I Can’t” and “Juke” were both written from streams of consciousness, fueled by fervor that needed to be released.
Not finite to love, Mar also recognizes the value in wiring songs based in introspection. The song “Here” being birthed from that awareness.
His conciseness in his projects, not only musically but visually, further demonstrate his passion, each executed perfectly to appeal to his listeners while produced out of pure motivation to share his art.
Everything that Mar touches is gold. With attention to every detail and the time taken to craft a masterpiece that’s held in such high esteem, it shows in his music, his performances and in the energy that radiates from within him.
JUNE 1
The Music of Billy Joel & More Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxsymphony.org
Parker McCollum Daily’s Place dailysplace.com
The Debt Kona Clubhouse konaskatepark.com
JUNE 2
Yxngexnt and special guest Thornskin Kona Clubhouse konaskatepark.com
JUNE 5
Raspberry Pie Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
JUNE 6
Happy Together ft. The Turtles, The Association, Badfinger and more
JUNE 7-8
“Symphonie Fantastique” Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxsymphony.org
JUNE 8
Billy Currington St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com
Soul Tracks Ritz Theatre & Museum ritzjacksonville.com
Widow7 Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
Jeremy’s Ten: A Pearl Jam Tribute Underbelly underbellyjax.com
Mean Mary Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com
JUNE 9
Gila
Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
JUNE 10
Your Best Nightmare
Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
JUNE 11
Bold City Classics
Casa Marina 904tix.com
Sunny Sweeney
Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
JUNE 12
The Contenders
Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com
JUNE 13
Luke Bryan VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevents.com
JUNE 14
Anthony Hamilton VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevents.com
Seth Walker
Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com
Messer Chups
Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
JUNE 15
Bold Love Fest ft. Ava Max and Aly & AJ Daily’s Place dailysplace.com
Mexidão with Farofeiros Murray Hill Theatre murrayhilltheatre.com
Jordan Foley & The Wheelhouse Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
Know Your Enemy: Rage Against The Machine Tribute Underbelly underbellyjax.com
JUNE 16
Sheila E. and the E-Train
Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Sean Mason
Ritz Theatre & Museum ritzjacksonville.com
Lovkn w/Beach Chapel and Jarred Dawkins
Murray Hill Theatre murrayhilltheatre.com
JUNE 17
Adam Ezra Group
Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com
JUNE 18
Ritz Chamber Players: Juneteeth Concert–”Journey Towards Freedom” Jacksonville University–Terry Concert Hall ritzchamberplayers.secureserversites.net
Marcus Roberts and the Modern Jazz Generation: Juneteeth Concert Flagler College–Lewis Auditorium staugustinemusicfestival.org
JUNE 20
Jamey Johnson St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com
JUNE 21
Abducted by the 80’s ft. Wang Chug, Men Without Hats, The Motels and Naked Eyes Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Paul McDonald & The Mourning Doves
Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com
Jory Lyle
Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
Abe Partridge
Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com
JUNE 21-30
St. Augustine Music Festival
Various locations staugustinemusicfestival.org
JUNE 22
Omari Dillard Soul Violinist
Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxevents.com
Kyshona Trio
The Waterworks gamblerogersfest.org
JUNE 22
No Fraud
Kona Clubhouse konaskatepark.com
JUNE 23
Kind Hearted Strangers
Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com
Ali Ryerson Trio w/Sonofarious Friday Musicale fridaymusicale.com
JUNE 24
Narcotic Wasteland
Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
JUNE 25
The Convalescence
Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
JUNE 27
Kairos Creature Club + Leah Senior
The Bier Hall at Intuition Ale Works intuitionaleworks.com
JUNE 28
Within Our Nature
Kona Clubhouse konaskatepark.com
JUNE 29
Jenny Lewis
The Bier Hall at Intuition Ale Works intuitionaleworks.com
Ultimate Rush Tribute Band
Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine originalcafe11.com
JUNE 30
Native Sons
Kona Clubhouse konaskatepark.com
A festival for bold love in the Bold City, the Bold Love Fest is a concert and festival celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride for all. The inaugural event, producedy by Bold Events, will take place at Daily’s Place on June 15. The festival will feature artists such as Ava Max (with hits “Sweet But Psycho” and “Kings & Queens’’) Aly & AJ, G Flip and VINCINT with host Monet X Change and Trinity the Tuck, winners of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All-Stars” season 4.
The inaugural event hopes to bring support from the Jacksonville community to bring everyone together in a shared love of music. “ Bold Love Fest should be a place for everyone to come and let go of what they are dealing with and just dance and have a great time.” said VINCINT about his performance at Bold Love Fest. “It is going to be high energy and full of new music.”
Bold Love Fest will also feature local vendors from Jacksonville organization Queer Market as well during the festival. Queer Market hosts events every second and fourth Sunday with vendors that are queer or queer allied for the Jacksonville community as well. “We wanted everything for this to be very intentional from the artist lineup to vendors for the event.” said Stephanie Lynn, director of marketing for Bold Events. “We want to uplift organizations in this community that are already in place and bring awareness to them.”
This event hopes to bring a celebration of love and pride to Jacksonville and show that love lives here. “There really has not been a big Pride event in Jacksonville, and we want to show the LGBTQ+ community that they belong in Jacksonville and they are fully supported,” Lynn said. “We do not want to take away from other pride events happening around town as well such as Pride Brunch at Tulua Bistro and the Pride Parade in St. Augustine happening on June 15th as well,” Lynn stated.
The event will be hosted by Winners of RuPaul’s Drag Race Allstars season 4 winners Monet X Change and Trinity the Tuck who will start the show with a performance as well. This event hopes to create a fun event for all to come and feel themselves in the community where they may feel underrepresented at times.
A kickoff to this event will take place at Hardwicks Bar on June 7.
Tickets are now on sale at dailysplace.com.
I don’t know maybe I should gatekeep … Fine, I won’t. The collective NxWorries, comprised of Anderson .Paak and Knxwledge — two stellar artists in their own regard — come together again to create work that is reminiscent of an expansive discography of Black soul, blues and swagger.
Everytime I hear a NxWorries track my head goes straight into a rhythmic bob with an accompanied “stank” face (don’t worry this is a good thing.) And my reaction is always the same — as I know their entire catalog front to back — and I still catch myself having the same visceral reaction as if I was hearing their songs for the first time (sheer awe) And I unfortunately have had no choice but to replay their first album, “Yes Lawd!”, since it’s been eight years since their last release.
*Looks to the imaginary camera* Yes, EIGHT YEARS! (How rude.)
While they’ve released music in that time frame, including a killer single, ‘Where I’m From’ featuring H.E.R. and “Daydreaming” in 2023 and “86Sentra” in April (also stellar songs) it hasn’t completely quenched my thirst for some new music - but they have finally delivered on such desire with the announcement of their newest project, ‘Why Lawd!’
The 19-track album will have features from some of my favorites such as Thundercat and Earl Sweatshirt — along with features from Snoop Dog, Charlie Wilson, October London, Rae Khalil and … Dave Chappelle! (Is Chappelle hiding some musical abilities?) Those singles that I mentioned earlier will also be on the album, so you can share in the sentiment that I express.
I’ve listened to their early release of their song “FromHere” which features Snoop Dogg and was instantly transported to an alternative version of the ’70s with the production and Paak’s vocals. It was perfection.
So, take this recommendation with care… I’m usually a gatekeeper (so you’re welcome)
This release has me pacing. No adjectives can’t pinpoint my emotions for this one.
This comes years after 2019’s “Bubba,” his last solo release (which is an amazing project by the way). And while he did give us “KAYTRAMINÉ,” his collaborative project with Amine, it’s been a long time coming for fans of the artist to receive a full solo album.
He is not slacking on the features at all with artists named such as Rochelle Jordan, SiR, Thundercat, Anderson .Paak, Childish Gambino, Channel Tres, Don Toliver … and the list keeps going. I know this album is going to be a heavy hitter.
I credit Kaytranada for being one of the main contributors to the resurgence of house and alternative house music. And I genuinely can’t express how excited I am to hear this project.
The British pop princess is releasing her album, “Brat,” just in time for the summer shenanigans.
“WIDE OPEN, HORSES”
When I saw that Irish singer, James Vincent McMorrow was releasing an album, I paused (and it was a very dramatic pause) because it unlocked a moment of time for me.
Little me used to religiously listen to McMorrow, and as a former dancer, I found his songs were perfect for choreographing in my bedroom. His vulnerability, chilling lyrics and overall composition served as the perfect accompaniment to my contemporary routines, and his songs still live in my playlists to this day. Because of my lack of visitation to my dance playlists, his songs became a cherished misplacement through time, but the immediate notice of his latest work catapulted me back into all of his work. I instantly replayed all my beloved songs from him such as “Wicked Game (Live)”, “Cavalier,” “If I Had a Boat” and “Ghosts” from Twilight’s infamous “Breaking Dawn – Pt. 2” soundtrack.
McMorrow is truly a timeless artist. I recommend him for the nights lit by candlelight or when you find that aching love story.
If you’ve never experienced his artistry, you’re in for a treat with this new album.
The former Fifth Harmony member will be releasing her anticipated debut album, ‘Dopamine’ this June.
This summer the category is…HOUSE!
House music — traditional, alternative, techno, fusion — I don’t care what kind, just make sure you add some to your playlist this season.
Channel Tres has this sound down with creating music that makes you want to move your body in the carefree manner that you see on TV: strobe lights, closed eyes and sweat. A good time further supported by good music!
My initial introduction to the California singer and producer was at a Thundercat concert I attended a few years back. Channel Tres was the opener and was a ball of energy — his music reflecting such — and that turned me into an instant fan.
With collaborations with artists such as Terrace Martin, James Blake, VanJess and so many others he has established his own flair not just as an artist but as a producer as well.
I’m really pumped to hear his newest banger, “Head Rush,” and I’m curious to see if we will hear any features!
This is another group I want to gatekeep … but I cannot contain how much I love them or I might implode. The Australian-based jazz/soul band is releasing their fourth studio album, “Make Friends,” and I haven’t shut up about it since I heard the announcement.
Hiatus Kaiyote has kept their spot as one of my favorite groups ever (and will never move) as they make untouchable music that blows my mind every time.
With three perfect albums under their belt, I expect nothing less than superlative. They released two singles from the project, “Everything’s Beautiful” and “Telescope,” which both highlight eccentric production and lead singer Nai Palm’s matchless vocals.
Hiatus Kaiyote as a whole and Palm as a soloist announced North American tours starting this summer. While, there’s unfortunately not a Florida date, the closest show will be held in Atlanta at The Eastern.
This may be my last article as I may have to sell a kidney to attend, but for them… it would be well worth it!
“God Said No” is Omar Apollo’s latest project. The singer best known for his song, ‘Evergreen’ has finally completed his 14-track album.
Rapper, Lupe Fiasco, has come to follow up his 2022 project with his new album, “Samurai.”
A posthumous album from the legendary Johnny Cash will be released this summer with unreleased music from the beloved singer. Cash’s son and former musicians who played alongside Cash have curated his late work to be shared on the album, “Songwriter.”
Listen, Lucky Daye continually supports my ongoing delusions. How could he not with a voice like that! Lyrics like that! (And a face like that!)
I’ve been a longtime fan of the R&B singer, and he continually proves himself time and time again. His debut album, “Painted”, is actually *chef’s kiss* and goes platinum in my household.
While he hasn’t set a release date for “Algorithm,” Lucky Daye has alerted outlets that we can anticipate it this month. He has also announced a tour – and I will absolutely be in the crowd – with his only Florida show at the House of Blues in Orlando.
Your unique life, planned. Understanding what people are passionate about is how we help them plan for what’s most important. Backed by sophisticated resources, a Raymond James financial advisor gets to know you and everything that makes your life uniquely complex. That’s Life Well Planned.
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Cajun Crab Juice Seafood & Bar Jax cajuncrabjax.com
Cliff’s Bar & Grill cliffsbarandgrill.com
El Fogón de Munchies facebook.com/elfogonMunchiesBoricuas
Fancy Sushi & Grill Japanese Restaurant fancysushiandgrill.com
Fuji Sushi fujisushi-fl.com
ABBQ abbqmeatdrink.com
Anejo anejococinamexicana.com
Angie’s Subs facebook.com/angiessubs
Aqua Grill aquagrill.net
Azurea at One Ocean azurearestaurant.com
Barbara Jean’s on the Water barbarajeansonthewater.com
Caffe Andiamo caffeandiamo.com
Cantina Louie cantinalouie.com
Coop 303 coop303.com
Eleven South elevensouth.com
Engine 15 Brewing Company engine15.com
European Street Cafe europeanstreet.com
The Fish Company Restaurant and Oyster Bar thefishcojax.com
Flying Iguana Taqueria & Tequila Bar flyingiguana.com
The G.O.A.T. Tapas & Bar thegoatjax.com
GROM facebook.com/Grom904
The Good Place Nutrition facebook.com/thegoodplacenutrition
Grinders American Diner grindersamdiner.com
Lauren’s Jazz, Blues & Seafood facebook.com/laurensseafoodbluesjazz
La Palmerita orderlapalmerita.com
Pupuseria El Paraíso pupuseriaelparaisojax.com
Hawkers eathawkers.com
JJ’s Liberty Bistro jjbistro.com/ponte-vedra
Kamiya 86 kamiya86fl.com
Lone Wolf Co. lonewolfjax.com
Marker 32 marker32.com
Mezzaluna mezzalunajax.com
Mojo Kitchen mojobbq.com/mojo-kitchen
Nona Blue Modern Tavern nonablue.com
North Beach Fish Camp thenorthbeachfishcamp.com
Oaxaca Club theoaxacaclub.com
O-Ku o-kusushi.com
Palm Valley Fish Camp palmvalleyfishcamp.com
Poe’s Tavern poestavern.com
Ragtime Tavern ragtimetavern.com
Safe Harbor Seafood Market and Restaurant safeharbor-seafood.com
Rice + Noodles Korean Restaurant riceandnoodles.net
Seven Wonders Restaurant 7wondersbakery.com
Southern Coast Seafood southerncoastseafood.com
Tabouleh Cafe taboulehcafe.com
Thai & Lao Bistro thaiandlaobistro.com
Salt Life Food Shack saltlifefoodshack.com
Salumeria 104 Atlantic Beach salumeria104.com
Singleton’s Seafood Shack singletonsseafood.com
Sliders Oyster Bar slidersoysterbar.com
Southern Grounds southerngrounds.com
TacoLu tacolu.com
Two Dudes Seafood Restaurant twodudesrestaurant.com
Valley Smoke BBQ valleysmoke.com
Vicious Biscuit viciousbiscuit.com
Bellweather bellwetherjax.com
The Bread and Board thebreadandboard.com
The Brick Coffee House brickcoffeehouse.com
Burrito Gallery burritogallery.com
Cowford Chophouse cowfordchophouse.com
Casa Dora Italian Cafe facebook.com/casadorajax
De Real Ting Cafe facebook.com/derealtingcafe
Berndt Ends BBQ facebook.com/berndtendsbbq
Blue Bamboo Canton Bistro bluebamboojacksonville.com
ChopHouse Thirteen chophouse13.com
Enza’s Italian Restaurant enzas.net
ISO ISO Ramen isoisoramen.com
Julington Creek Fish Camp julingtoncreekfishcamp.com
Bold Birds Nashville Hot Chicken boldbirdshotchicken.com
Buchner’s Bierhall buchnersbierhalle.com
The Butt Hutt Smokehouse butthuttjax.com
Chancho King chanchoking.com
The Dreamette dreametteicecream.com
Estrella Cocina estrellajax.com
The Happy Grilled Cheese thehappygrilledchees.wixsite.com/grilledcheese
Indochine indochinejax.com
Juliette’s Bistro at Marriott Jacksonville Downtown marriott.com
Morton’s The Steakhouse mortons.com
Ocean Street Tacos oceanstreettacos.com
Kazu Japanese Restaurant kazujapaneserestaurant.com
Le Petit Paris French Cafe lepetitparisjax.com
Mandola’s Italian Kitchen mandolas.com
Masala Indian Cuisine jaxmasala.com
One Night Taco Stand onenightjax.com
Nudo Vietnam Cuisine nudoinjax.com
El Jefe Tex Mex eljefejax.com
Fired Up Pizza woodfireduppizza.com
La Cena Ristorante No website. Google it!
Maple Street Biscuit Company maplestreetbiscuits.com/murray-hill
Moon River Pizza moonriverpizza.net
On The Fly Sandwiches & Stuff (food truck) ontheflyjax.com
The River Club jaxriverclub.com
Spliff’s Gastropub spliffsgastropub.com
Super Food & Brew superfoodandbrew.com
Sweet Pete’s sweetpetescandy.com
Tavern at the Hyatt Regency hyatt.com
Picasso’s Pizzeria jaxpicassos.wixsite.com/jaxpicassos
Rosy’s Restaurant rosys-restaurant.business.site
Salento Steakhouse salentosteakhouse.com
Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe tazikis.com
Umami Japanese Curry & Ramen umamijax.com
Wicked Barley Brewing Company wickedbarley.com
Murray Hillbilly murrayhillbilly.com
Solazo Taqueria solazofl.business.site
The Stout Snug thestoutsnug.com
Vagabond Coffee Co. vagabondcoffee.com
The Walrus thewalrusjax.com
Epik epikeats.com
Fuji Yama fujiyamajax.com
Galaxy Burger galaxyburgersjax.com
Green Papaya Pan Asian Cuisine greenpapayaus.com
Joseph’s Pizza josephspizza.com/northside-full-menu
13 Gypsies 13gypsies.com
904 Tacos facebook.com/904tacosfivepoints
Ale Pie House alepiehousefl.com
Arepa Please arepaplease.com
Bagel Love bagel-love.ueniweb.com
Biggie’s Pizza biggiespizzajax.com
Biscottis biscottis.net
The Blue Fish Restaurant & Oyster Bar bluefishjax.com
Blue Buddha bluebuddhaspecialty.com
Blue Orchid Thai Cuisine blueorchidthai.com
Bold Bean boldbeancoffee.com
Brew Five Points brewfivepoints.co
Carolina Jax carolinajax.com
Carmines Pie House carminespiehouse.com
Cool Moose Cafe coolmoosecafe.net
The Jungle Bowl facebook.com/thejunglebowl
Junior’s Seafood Restaurant juniorsseafoodrestaurant.com/north-jacksonville
Masala Mantra masalamantrajax.com
Nagasaki Japanese Restaurant nagasakisushirestaurant.com
New Berlin Fish House & Oyster Bar newberlinfishhouse.com
Corner Taco cornertaco.com
Cuisine 76 & Bar cuisine76andbar.com
European Street Cafe europeanstreet.com
The Fox Restaurant facebook.com/thefoxrestaurant
The Greenhouse and Bar thegreenhousebar.com
Hawkers eathawkers.com
Homespun Kitchen homespunkitchen.com
Iguana on Park iguanaonpark.com
Josephine josephineavondale.com
Kickbacks Gastropub kickbacksgastropub.com
Kingmaker Brewing kingmakerbrewing.com
MOJO No. 4 Urban BBQ & Whiskey Bar mojobbq.com/mojo-no-4
The Mossfire Grill mossfire.com
Nacho Taco nachotaco.net
Pattaya Thai Grill pattayathaijax.com
Ship 2 Shore Seafood & Steak ship2shoreseafood.com
Sushi Zen Jax sushizenfl.kwickmenu.com
Terry’s Grill facebook.com/terrysgrill
Pizza Cave facebook.com/pizzacave5pts
Restaurant Orsay restaurantorsay.com
River & Post riverandpostjax.com
Sake House sakehousejax.com
Southern Grounds southerngrounds.com
S & R Dim Sum srdimsumjax.com
Sushi Cafe sushicafejax.com
Sweet Theory Baking Company sweettheorybakingco.com
Taqueria Cinco taqueria5points.com
1937 1937sanmarco.com
Bar Molino barmolino.com
bb’s bbsrestaurant.com
The Bearded Pig thebeardedpigbbq.com
Bistro X Restaurant and Lounge bistrox.com
Chart House chart-house.com
European Street Cafe europeanstreet.com
Fla. Juice and Bowl flajuiceandbowl.com
1748 Bakehouse 1748bakehouse.com
Caribbean Sunrise Bakery & Restaurant caribbeansunrisebakery.com
Crispy’s Springfield Gallery facebook.com/CrispysSpringfieldGallery
Flavva flavvajacksonville.com
Island Tropics Restaurant facebook.com/Island-Tropics-Restaurant-Lounge
III Forks 3forks.com/location/jacksonville
4 Rivers Smokehouse 4rsmokehouse.com
Amazing Thai Restaurant amazingthaijax.com
Bazille at Nordstrom nordstrom.com
Blaze Pizza blazepizza.com
Catullo’s Italian catullos.hrpos.heartland.us/menu
Culhane’s Irish Pub culhanesirishpub.com
Flavors of Thai flavors-of-thai.business.site
Fuji Sushi jacksonvillefujisushi.com
The Local thelocaljax.com
Matthew’s Restaurant matthewsrestaurant.com
The Metro Diner metrodiner.com
Oceana oceana.restaurant
The Olive Tree Mediterranean Grille theolivetreemediterraneangrille.com
Peterbrooke peterbrooke.com/pages/san-marco
Tha Soulfood Smagicians facebook.com/thasmagicians
The Dreamette dreametteicecream.com
The District thedistrictspr.com
Hola Mexican Restaurant holajax.com
Indulgence Southern Bistro indulgencesouthernbistro.com
The French Pantry thefrenchpantryfl.com
Fresh Mex & Co. freshmexjax.com
Galaxy Burger galaxyburgersjax.com
Just Jerk justjerkbbq1.com
Marianas Grinds facebook.com/marianasgrinds
Mr. Potato Spread mrpotatospread.com
Midtown Table midtowntable.medurebrothers.com
Pink Salt Restaurant + Wine Bar pinksaltrestaurant.com
Rue Saint-Marc ruesaintmarc.com
Sake House 2 sakehousejax2.com
Southern Grounds southerngrounds.com
Taverna taverna.restaurant
Town Hall townhalljax.com
V Pizza vpizza.com
Social Grounds Coffee Roasters social-grounds-coffee.myshopify.com
Strings Sport Brewery stringssportsbrewery.com
Silkie’s Chicken & Champagne Bar meetatsilkies.com
Uptown Kitchen and Bar uptownkitchenjax.com
Waafa and Mike’s Cafe facebook.com/waafaandmikes
Norikase norikase.com
Prati Italia pratiitalia.com
Purple Roots purplerootsjacksonville.com
Seasons 52 seasons52.com
Sweet Mama’s Southern Homestyle Cooking sweetmamasjacksonville.com
Taste of Thai tasteofthaijax.com
Texas de Brazil texasdebrazil.com
Ahadu Ethiopian Restaurant ahadu-ethiopian-restaurant.business.site
Banana Leaf Asian Bistro facebook.com/bananaleafasianbistro
Cross Creek Steakhouse and Ribs crosscreeksteakhouse.com
Ellianos Coffee ellianos.com
The Juicy Crab thejuicycrabjax.com
La Perla Mexican Restaurant orderlaperlamexicanrestaurant.com
La Catrina Tacos & Tequila Bar lacatrinalovers.com
OP Fish House & Oyster Bar opfishhouse.com
El Palermo Puerto Rican Kitchen palermopuertoricankitchen.com
Whitey’s Fish Camp whiteysfishcamp.com
Holey Moley Bagel Bar NYC facebook.com/HoleyMoleyBagelBar
Vito’s Pizza vitosorangepark.com
El Pegao Restaurant facebook.com/eloegaorestaurant
Corky Bell’s Seafood & Steaks corkybellsseafood.com
1928 Cuban Bistro-Fleming Island 1928cubanistro.com
Black Creek Cafe black-creek-cafe-middleburg.com
Two Sisters and A Deviled Crab 2sistersjax.com
Legacy Restaurant & Bar instagram.com/legacyloungejax
Mackey’s Munchies mackeysmunchies.com
King Kabob eatkingkabob.com
Lewey’s Seafood and Wings leweys-seafood-wings.business.site
Mesa mesajax.com
The Metro Diner metrodiner.com
The Potter’s House Soul Food and Bistro thesoulfoodbistro.com
Puerto Plata Restaurant puertoplatarestaurant.com
Sushi Bear sushibearjax.com
Mr. Potato Spread mrpotatospread.com
Nicole’s on the river facebook.com/p/Nicoles-on-the-River-Cafe-Catering.com
Akaya Grill & Sushi Restaurant akayaonline.com
Ten Zushi tenzushionline.com
Trent’s Seafood jltrents.com
I am a proud self-proclaimed foodie — through and through — but it’s getting harder to maintain that title with taste buds meant to linger in cities like New York City, Miami or Los Angeles but, instead, are constantly stifled by a chronic lack of innovative menus, quality ingredients, immaculate service and unforgettable experiences.
Now, I’m not saying Jacksonville doesn’t or can’t deliver on such requests as we’re making headway with some burgeoning businesses planting roots here with many local eateries opening up with eccentric menus, detailed decor and a pledge to honor an experience that hasn’t been seen before. I admire the effort, but frequent let downs have caused some consumer skepticism.
A few months ago, the announcement of another new restaurant was beginning to circulate.
I found myself uninterested initially due to the habitual anticipation and the follow up of routine displeasure from other establishments. As that buzzing grew louder I decided to take a look at what all the chatter was about at Cataluna.
The promotional pictures immediately grabbed my attention as I stared at chic wallpaper, beautiful chandeliers, velvet seats — all draped in my favorite color, green — under ambient moody lighting. It was a stunning capture of a place you would see in some major cities around the world, and my initial dismay was becoming intrigued.
The decor was just an invitation — since aesthetics can only get you so far — I needed to see if what I would be ingesting was worth it before I really committed to (you know the commitment of getting dressed and driving there).
Their website, which was thoughtfully crafted with beautiful photographs of their cocktails and food, further cemented my decision to partake … along with some captivating descriptors:
“New flavors with deep roots.”
“A celebration of Mediterranean gastronomy. Indulge in an array of small plates bursting with authentic ingredients and bold spices, paired perfectly with a selection of fine wines and handcrafted cocktails.”
I made my way to Cataluna and was greeted by a doorman and hostess — both with warm smiles — and entered into an entirely new realm, a world of difference from what surrounded the outside. Dark lighting forced my eyes to adjust from the 6 p.m. sun, but it was needed to accompany the beautiful furnishing and color scheme (check out “Folio” on instagram to see for yourself) and the resplendent floor to ceiling bar. I was asked if I wanted to sit in the dining room or the lower mid-section, available to support a contrasting vibe (still a stunner nonetheless) reminiscent of a modern take on a 70s conversation pit with many patrons who sat here seemed to be catching up with followed laughter all while being granted a 360-degree view of the restaurant.
I sat in the “dining room” area and was greeted by my server, Sebastian, and I have to note that the customer service the entire night was spot on —with waiters who weren’t even assigned to my table constantly checking on me. I let my server take the lead with my food selections since I hadn’t seen the menu prior to and I’m extremely indecisive (I’ll blame it on being a Sagittarius.)
Sebastian handed me a cocktail — the Musa (or “muse” in English) — while telling me the inspiration behind the drink:
“Our mixologist wanted to create an experience of passion which is why he chose to include passionfruit.”
My first sip was met immediately with the taste of passion fruit, sour at first and then sweet. The alcohol partnered with the fruit being gin — smooth all the way down.
For my appetizer, a plate of octopus was sat in front of me. I was a bit intimidated at first (since I’m a fried calamari girl at heart), but it didn’t take away from the presentation nor flavor. I was pleasantly surprised at my own fancy as I cut into the meat that held firm but was soft inside — as a texture person this was salient to my own enjoyment. It was cooked wonderfully and paired with a beet purée and a lemon that brightened up the flavor profile. It was a great start to a night of explorative subsistence.
As I waited on my entree, I made conversation with two friends seated beside me. They both ordered the lobster pasta and raved about their own spread with one friend sharing that this was her second time coming back for that particular dish alone. It looked delicious and I’m always down for carbs and a good time, so I noted what to order next time.
Our conversation was briefly stalled by the incoming of my entree, the sea bass.
I wanted to shout “Tens! Tens! Tens across the board!” as I bit into the fish, but I reserved my reaction.
The sea bass sat on a bed of arugula —and what I believe were shallots — tossed in a lemon sauce. The top of the bass was crispy with a plush inside. Buttery and flaky and I closed my eyes to relish in its glory. The sauce was a bit on the sweeter side, but it worked so well with every ingredient on my plate, not overpowering in the slightest.
My belly was expanding and I was starting to get full, but I could tell the quality of consumption was there by my body’s own positive reaction. And while I could’ve finished right there when it comes to a sweet treat … I’m going to have it. There’s never a need for peer pressure to convince me to indulge in any type of dessert.
Sebastian brought out my last course which was a caramel cake with vanilla ice cream and a black sesame seed placed on top.
The cake was dense and after a few dig-ins, my fork was met with a caramel center. It wasn’t overwhelming and the ice cream assisted in mellowing out the piquancy. What made this simple treat unorthodox was the inclusion of the black sesame seed; a piece of caramel rolled in black sesame seeds and placed right on top of the ice cream. It was antithetical from what I just consumed but uncannily worked well together. It was a savory contrast that was notable.
All in all, my entire experience from the food, to the ambience, to the service was stellar!
My trip was unfortunately on a Wednesday evening so I missed out on their fire performers and late night menu; as well as their weekend transformation after dark to a lively lounge spot until 2 a.m.
I will definitely be making my way back to Cataluna (and ordering the lobster pasta) along with some cocktails from their extensive book (they literally have a book of specialty cocktails… I’m not even joking) and getting to dance the night away with some friends.
ARLINGTON
Cliff’s Bar and Grill cliffsbarandgrill.com
Club Heaven clubheavenjax.com
BEACHES/PONTE VEDRA
Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com
The Brix Taphouse jacksonvillebeachbar.com
Casa Marina casamarinahotel.com
Culhane’s culhanesirishpub.com
Flask & Cannon facebook.com/flaskandcannon
Fly’s Tie Irish Pub facebook.com/flystieirishpub
Green Room Brewing greenroombrewing.com
Grey Matter Distillery greymatterdistillery.com
Gusto gustojax.com
Hoptinger Bier Garden + Sausage House hoptinger.com
Ink Factory Brewing inkfactorybrewing.com
Island Girl Cigar Bar islandgirlcigarbar.com
Jax Beach Kava Bar kavajacksonville.com
Jekyll Brewing jekyllbrewing.com
Julep Palm Valley facebook.com/juleppalmvalley
Lemon Bar & Grille lemonbarjax.com
Lynch’s Irish Pub lynchsirishpub.com
Mango’s mangosjaxbeach.com
Mavi’s Waterfront Bar & Grill mavijax.com
Monkey’s Uncle Tavern monkeysuncletavern.com
Palm Valley Outdoors Bar and Grill palmvalleyoutdoors.com
Penthouse Lounge at Casa Marina Hotel casamarinahotel.com
Ragtime Tavern ragtimetavern.com
Refinery Jax Beach refineryjaxbeach.com
Reve Brewing revebrewing.com
The Ritz Lounge theritzlounge.com
The Shim Sham Room shimshamroom.com
Southern Swells Brewing Company southernswells.com
Surfer The Bar surferthebar.com
Voo Swar Restaurant & Lounge instagram.com/vooswar
DOWNTOWN
The Bier Hall at Intuition Ale Works intuitionaleworks.com/bierhall
Bold City Brewery boldcitybrewery.com
De Real Ting Cafe facebook.com/derealtingcafe
Dos Gatos dosgatosjax.com
Element Bistro Bar & Lounge elementjax.com
Hardwicks hardwicksbarjax.com
Intuition Aleworks intuitionaleworks.com
Island Girl Cigar Bar islandgirlcigarbar.com
Justice Pub facebook.com/thejusticepub
The Lark thelarkjax.com
Live Bar facebook.com/livebarclubjax
Manifest Distilling manifestdistilling.com
Ocean Street Tequila instagram.com/oceanstreettacosandtequila
The RL Lounge therlloungejax.com
Ruby Beach Brewing rubybeachbrewing.com
Underbelly underbellyjax.com
The Volstead thevolsteadjax.com
FLEMING ISLAND
Island Girl Cigar Bar islandgirlcigarbar.com/fleming-island
Mercury Moon facebook.com/mercury-moon
Mr. Chubby’s Wings mrchubbyswings.com
Sunset Tiki Bar the-sunset-tiki-bar.business.site
Whitey’s Fish Camp whiteysfishcamp.com
INTRACOASTAL WEST 9 Zero Pour 9zeropour.com
MVP’s Sports Grille facebook.com/mvpssportsgrille
The Spot Hookah Lounge thespothookahloungejax.com
Time Out Sports Grill timeoutsportsgrill.com
MANDARIN/JULINGTON CREEK/
FRUIT COVE
2nd Bay Brewing 2ndbaybrewing.com
Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
Iggy’s Grill and Bar facebook.com/iggysgrill
Kava & Company kavaandcompany.com
Legacy Ale Works legacyaleworks.com
Monkey’s Uncle Tavern facebook.com/monkeysunclemandarin1
Rack’em Up Sports Bar facebook.com/rackemupsportsbar
Time Out Sports Grill timeoutsportsgrill.com
MURRAY HILL Axe Champs axechamps.com
Buchner’s Bierhalle buchnersbierhalle.com
The Boot Rack Saloon boot-rack-saloon.business.site
Fishweir Brewing Company fishweirbrewing.com
The Flamingo theflamingojax.com
Perfect Rack Billiards perfectrackbilliards.com
Silver Cow silvercowjax.com
The Stout Snug thestoutsnug.com
The Walrus thewalrusjax.com
NORTHSIDE
Coppertop Bar and Restaurant coppertopbarandrestaurant.com
Four Fathers Distillery fourfathersdistillery.com
ORANGE PARK/MIDDLEBURG
57 Heaven
facebook.com/57heavenop
Big Dawgs Sports Restaurant bigdawgsrestaurant.com
Cheers Park Avenue cheersparkave.com
The Daq Shack thedaqshack904.com
Dee’s Music Bar and Grill facebook.com/musicbarandgrill
The Fresh Spot Lounge thefreshspotlounge.com
LeaderBoard Arcade leaderboardarcade.com
Locals Pub localspub.co
Nakama Anime Bar nakamabar.com
Park Avenue Billiards parkavenuebilliards.com
Pinglehead Brewing Company pinglehead.com
Southern Social Whiskey Bar & Lounge southernsocialbar.com
RIVERSIDE/AVONDALE Birdies facebook.com/birdiesfivepoints
Bold City Brewery boldcitybrewery.com
Brick Restaurant brickofavondale.com
Burlock & Barrel burlockandbarrel.com
Casbah Cafe thecasbahcafe.com
Dart Bar & Games facebook.com/dartbarjax
Eclipse Bar & Nightclub facebook.com/eclipsebarjax
The Garage garagejax.com
The Green House thegreenhousebar.com
Hoptinger Bier Garden + Sausage House hoptinger.com
Incahoots incahootsnightclub.com
Kanine Social Taproom kaninesocial.com
Keg & Coin kegandcoinjax.com
Kingmaker Brewing kingmakerbrewing.com
Lemonstreet Brewing Company lemonstreetbrewing.com
The Loft loftjax.com
Mickie’s Irish Pub facebook.com/mickiesjax
Myrtle Avenue Brewing facebook.com/myrtleavebrewing
Park Place Lounge park-place-lounge.business.site
Rain Dogs instagram.com/raindogs5points
River & Post riverandpostjax.com
Riverside Liquors riversideliquors.biz
Rogue Bar facebook.com/rogue.bar.1
Root Down facebook.com/rootdownjax
Shores Liquor and Bar instagram.com/shoresliquoravondale
Wildcrafters facebook.com/wildcraftersjax
SAN MARCO/ST. NICHOLAS
1937 Spirits & Eatery 1937sanmarco.com
Aardwolf Brewing Company aardwolfbrewing.com
Bar Molino barmolino.com
Breezy Jazz House breezyjazzhouse.com
Cuba Libre Ultra Lounge cubalibrebar.com
Fore Score Golf Tavern forescoregolf.com
The Grape & Grain Exchange grapeandgrainexchange.com
Kava & Company kavaandcompany.com
The Mudville Grill themudvillegrill.com
The Players Grille playersgrille.com
Posting House posting.house
Sidecar instagram.com/sidecarjax
SOUTHSIDE/ST. JOHNS TOWN CENTER
Austin Karaoke facebook.com/austinkaraoke
Bottlenose Brewing bottlenosebrewing.com
Cataluna Jax catalunajax.com
Culhane’s culhanesirishpub.com
Island Girl Cigar Bar islandgirlcigarbar.com
Jax Craft Beer jaxcraftbeer.com
Medusa Restaurant and Hookah Lounge facebook.com/medusa-loungejacksonville
Secret Tiki Temple secrettikitemple.com
Seven Bridges Grille & Brewery 7bridgesgrille.com
Trio Lounge triohookahlounge.com
Veterans United Craft Brewery vubrew.com
Wicked Barley Brewing Company wickedbarley.com
WXYZ Bar at Aloft Hotel aloftjacksonvilletapestrypark.com
SPRINGFIELD
Crispy’s Springfield Gallery crispysspringfieldgallery.com
The District thedistrictspr.com
Historically Hoppy Brewing Company historicallyhoppy.com
Shantytown Pub facebook.com/shantytownjax
Strings Sports Brewery stringssportsbrewery.com
Stumpy’s Hatchet House stumpyshh.com
ST. AUGUSTINE
Ancient City Brewing ancientcitybrewing.com
Arnold’s Lounge arnoldslounge.com
Beacon Listening Room beaconstaug.com
Cellar Upstairs Bar at San Sebastian Winery sansebastianwinery.com
Dog Rose Brewing dogrosebrewing.com
The Original Café Eleven originalcafe11.com
Prohibition Kitchen pkstaug.com
Tradewinds Lounge tradewindslounge.com
WESTSIDE
Elevation Lounge elevationjax.com
Lillian’s lillianssportsgrill.com
The Phoenix Bar & Bowling facebook.com/thephoenixjax
