Jacksonville Magazine, November/December 2023

TOP DENTISTS: FIRST COAST DENTAL PROS THAT HAVE US SMILING

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

DOZENS OF LOCAL XMAS EVENTS YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS

DAWG POUNDING

REVISITING THIS YEAR'S FLORIDA/GEORGIA GAME

NATURE'S BEST

TOP NORTHEAST FLORIDA PARKS, PRESERVES & BEACHES

BOWLED OVER

RAMEN RESTAURANTS WE LOVE

shell

yeah!

WINTER IS THE SEASON TO DINE & BRINE

CONTENTS // VOLUME 39 ISSUE 8

72 108

64 54

64

72

81

104

108

Shell Yes!

Kindred Spirits

Season’s Greetings

Top Dentists

Light the Night

Casa Blanco

Winter is the ideal time to dive into the region’s bountiful oysters, crab and other shellfish.

Local photographer captures the spirit and legacy of historic First Coast neighborhood.

There is no shortage of things to do this Xmas.

We’ll share a few of our favorites.

ADVERTISING SECTION

Revisiting the second annual Halloween Lanterns Festival. Were you there? You should have been.

Recently completed home shies away from bold colors with stunning results.

Meet Northeast Florida’s leading dentists, as named by their peers.

TOP DENTISTS

DEPARTMENTS

: FIRST COAST

DENTAL PROS

THAT HAVE US

SMILING

TOP DENTISTS: FIRST COAST

DENTAL PROS THAT HAVE

US SMILING

HAPPY HAPPY S HOLIDAY HOLIDAYS OF LOCAL XMAS

DOZENS DOZENS OF LOCAL XMAS EVENTS YOU WON'T EVENTS YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS WANT TO MISS

DAWG DAWG NG POUNDIPOUNDING

YEAR'S REVISITING THIS REVISITING GIA GAME THIS YEAR'S FLORIDA/GEOR FLORIDA/GEORGIA GAME

6 Publisher’s Letter 8 Connect With Us 10 Reader Services 12 Jax Files 16 Five Things 18 Out & About 4 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

20 Picture Pawfect Pets and Poses 22 Travel Holly Jolly 24 Numbers Game What’s Selling & for How Much?

26 History Robert Burns is Here 32 Life Age of Influence

38 Family Nature’s Best 42 Datebook Local Happenings 44 Seen Partygoers Smile for Our Cameras 52 Perspective Dawg Pounding 124 Hot Seats Essential Jax Eateries & Side Dishes 146 Only in Florida Strange But True Stories

'S NATURE NATURE'S BEST BEST

TOP NORTHEAST TOP NORTHEAST FLORIDA PARKS, FLORIDA PARKS, BEACHES PRESERVES & PRESERVES & BEACHES

BOWLED BOWLED OVEROVER

RAMEN RESTAURANTS RAMEN RESTAURANTS WE LOVE WE LOVE

shell

she

ll yeah! yeah! y SEASON WINTER IS THE TO DINE & BRINE

WINTER IS THE SEASON TO DINE & BRINE

ABOUT THE COVERS: Courtesy of Taverna Oceana and New Orleans’ The Local Oyster

P.64 PHOTO: LENNY FOSTER; P.72 COURTESY OF DICKENS ON CENTRE; P.108 PHOTO: POLINA PIGULEVSKY

FEATURES

The Fish Company

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

The remnants of these piles of shells, bones and pottery are scattered up and down the coast. Researchers believe the abundance of food in the region’s salt marshes meant the inhabitants were exceptionally well fed, something that gave them ample opportunity for socializing, playing games and enjoying leisure time. Many of these middens have been lost to time and development. But some of the shell mounds were so large that early European explorers used them as navigational markers. Standing nearly 50 feet high, Turtle Mound, located in the Canaveral National Seashore, is perhaps the largest shell midden along the Florida coast. That this man-made refuse pile could be seen by

sailors at sea is mind-boggling and the number of oyster shells it contains is practically incalculable.

Close to home and located in the Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve are several middens, some believed to be more than 2,000 years old. At one time, these mounds were some 25 feet high and may have covered more than 20 acres. On Fort George Island there is an ancient site called Rollins Ring, thought to be a communal gathering spot 3,000 years ago. Any way you stack them, the sheer volume of these structures means the ocean and Northeast Florida marshes and rivers were ready sources of food for the region’s first residents.

The ocean’s bounty is still something we can appreciate and enjoy, and it remains a primary reason contemporary residents choose to live in Northeast Florida. Local oysters are hard to find, but there are other coastal areas in Florida and elsewhere in which they thrive and can be harvested. Same goes for mussels, clams, shrimp, redfish, flounder and many other delicious salt water species. Just writing this is making me hungry. Reading this month’s feature story will likely do the same for you. Please dive right into this latest issue of Jacksonville Magazine.

We’ll see you 2024, our 40th anniversary year. u

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

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PHOTO BY ANDREW VARNES

I

t’s easy to drive around Northeast Florida and think the region’s history stretches back only a few years, or to when your patch of the First Coast welcomed its first Chick-fil-A franchise. However, archaeologists have found evidence of people in Florida as early as 10,000 B.C., about the same time as the end of the Ice Age. Local occupation likely started around 4,000 years ago. Among the things that drew the first settlers to the area was an abundance of food, particularly shellfish—oysters, crabs, clams, and mussels. We know this because they left behind their trash in the form of shell mounds, or middens.

Connect With Us O

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Each year, Jax Mag hosts a series of readers’ polls, including Best in Jax, Best in Bride, Best in Pets, and Best of Homes, Garden & Real Estate. Go to our website and click on the Reader Polls tab to learn more.

CALLING ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS Want to see your photo in Jacksonville Magazine? Is it a newsworthy image or a shot that tells an interesting Northeast Florida story? Submit your photo and the story behind it to mail@jacksonvillemag.com for a chance to be featured in print and on our social media. photo by Specialist 3rd Class Timothy Dimal

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ONLY IN FLORIDA: Strange But True Stories From Across the Sunshine State

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ERIES & EAT ow BARS d to Kn You Nee

THE 2023 FABULIST 20 WINNING PLACES, BUSINESSES AND SERVICES THAT CATER TO WOMEN CUSTOMERS

SOMETHING'S BREWING JACKSONVILLE BREWERIES, TAPROOMS AND GASTROPUBS ARE REALLY COOKING

PLUS: WEEKEND IN WEST PALM GET UP AND LEAF TO NORTH CAROLINA 1970: JU'S WEIRD AND WONDERFUL YEAR

CULTURAL ARTS CALENDAR ANCE SEASON IDA'S PERFORM NORTHEAST FLOR AUTUMN COMES ALIVE IN

DIGITAL EDITIONS All Jacksonville Magazine publications are viewable online and on-the-go at Jacksonvillemag.com, including years of digital archives.

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subscribers, Jax Mag’s e-newsletters are your links to the latest happenings across the region. Every week our newsletter subscribers are treated to exclusive content focused on local happenings, dining, home decor, and

UPCOMING EVENTS w November 18

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w December 15

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PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Joseph White CREATIVE DIRECTOR Amy Klinedinst SALES DIRECTOR Jessica Lindsay ACCOUNTING/OFFICE MANAGER Wendy Castro ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Jared Alexander PROOFREADER Kathy Weedon HISTORY EDITOR Tim Gilmore STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Andrew Varnes CONTRIBUTING GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jefferson Rall CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Fabrizio Gowdy, Jeffrey Spear, Amy West SUBSCRIPTION REQUESTS/INQUIRIES circulation@jacksonville mag.com. JACKSONVILLE (ISSN 1070-5163), (USPS 749870), Volume 39 Issue 8. Published eight times per year with three supplements annually for $19.90 per year by White Publishing Co., 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL 32204. All editorial contents ©2023 by White Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Periodical postage paid at Jacksonville, FL. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to JACKSONVILLE, 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL 32204. PRINTED IN THE USA.

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jax files

“

Earlier this fall and during construction on a site near the Bridge of Lions in St. Augustine, Florida Department of Transportation crews unearthed a nearly intact shipwreck on State Road A1A. FDOT archeologists and experts from SEARCH, a firm specializing in maritime archaeology, believe the vessel dates to the mid- to late-1800s. Preserved in mud and soil, the wood of the hull has been thoroughly impregnated with water and has the consistency of water-soaked cardboard. After measuring and documenting the find, the vessel was carefully removed for further study and preservation.

— Photo by Daniel Fiore

”

CALLING ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS: Do you have an image of Northeast Florida you’d like to share with our readers?

Submit your photo and the story behind it to mail@jacksonvillemag.com for the opportunity to be featured on this page.

12 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

JAX FILES

SMALL TALK

Newsworthy Nuggets from Across Northeast Florida to Chew on This Month F A recent study by an online vacation rental marketplace revealed the most “Instagrammable” cities in Florida. The study analyzed the number of Instagram hashtags of 400 Sunshine State municipalities. According to its count, Orlando topped the list with nearly 5.5 million hashtags. Jacksonville placed fifth (1.1 million), bested by Tampa, Naples and Miami.

The least Instagrammable town in Florida?

According to the data, the distinction goes to Belleair Shore, south of Tampa, with just 4 hashtags. Selfie, anyone?

F Wanna bet golf is popular in Florida? No need. Gambling.com recently compared all 50 states across five categories such as the number of golf courses and Google search volumes for the terms “Ryder Cup,” “LIV Golf ” and “PGA Tour.” The results showed that Florida is the top golfing state, leading the way in four of the

Study Break

J

five categories analyzed. California placed second, followed by Texas, Michigan and Illinois, respectively. There are more than 1,050 golf courses presently operating in Florida.

F Speaking of Florida honors: In October, the results of Conde Nast Traveler’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards were announced. Amelia Island was voted as the No. 3 “Top Island” in the U.S., the second consecutive year our Nassau County neighbor has earned the distinction.

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island and the Omni Amelia Island Resort, two of the island’s largest vacation properties, were also recognized by Conde Nast, being voted No. 6 and No. 9 respectively among the Best Resorts in Florida.

F Research.com, a platform in the field of academic research and education, recently measured some 400 metrics at Florida’s uni-

versities and colleges. Sixty institutions in the state were included in the survey and, among its findings, the median cost of studying in Florida is $44,275. The average gender gap at Florida institutions of higher learning is 14% more women than men. The median alumni salary for graduates is $39,398 and the average acceptance rate for colleges in Florida is 70.2%.

F Holy crap! Research shows that the average American cusses about 80 times per day.

Apparently, swearing is becoming more acceptable, especially in music, movies, TV and online. A recent survey of subreddit pages determined which states have the worst potty mouths. Its findings placed Texas first, followed by Ohio. Florida came in third, with 6.5 swear words per post. In nearly 20% of posts, Floridians used the word “sh*t” to express themselves. Sorry, Mom. u

acksonville University recently announced plans to build a new addition to its Arlington campus. The new Jacksonville University Amenity Center will be an aquatic and exercise facility featuring a pool and cardio-training facilities. Among its amenities will be an infinity-edge pool with a beach entry, in-pool lounge seating, and a connected lap pool—all with views of the St. Johns River. In addition, the Amenity Center will connect to expanded beach volleyball courts, a new clubhouse and locker rooms for the university’s beach volleyball team. The facility is slated to open in the fall of 2024. u

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JAX FILES

GOOD STUFF

FIVE

THINGS WE

1

LOVE

RIGHT NOW

ICE, ICE BABY!

It’s hard to pick a favorite flavor of Guanabana ice pops. But we’ll start with creamy coconut, passion fruit, pina colada, mango raspberry, pineapple ginger lemonade… Yes, we’ll take one of each! Look for the homegrown desserts for sale at local festivals, restaurants and shops including El Agave Azul and Pura Bean.

2

THANK YOU

3

Sweet Dream

It might be the best smelling event of the holidays. The Gingerbread Extravaganza returns December 8-27 to Old St. Andrews Church. Please, no eating the display.

Don’t let the Pilgrims fool you. The country’s first Thanksgiving took place in Northeast Florida. According to the National Park Service, “On September 8, 1565, Pedro Menéndez de Avilés and 800 Spanish settlers founded the city of St. Augustine in Spanish La Florida. As soon as they were ashore, the landing party celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving. Afterward, Menéndez laid out a meal to which he invited as guests the native Seloy tribe who occupied the site.”

5

TEAM SPIRIT We’ll be rooting for Orange Park’s own Tre’Shaun Faison, who will be competing at the 2023 Parapan Am Games in Santiago, Chile, November 18-24.

Faison is a member of the USA Men’s Goalball Team. A win at this tournament secures a berth in the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris.

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Wild Adventure

Colors of the Wild illuminates the Jacksonville Zoo on select evenings through February. More than 70 authentic Chinese lanterns are displayed throughout the attraction. Tickets start at $20. u

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OUT & ABOUT

Walk In The Park Location: Latham Plaza and Seawalk Pavilion

BY JOHN O’MARA

J

ust one block north of where busy Beach Boulevard reaches its terminus at the Atlantic Ocean is Latham Plaza and it’s signature Seawalk Pavilion band shell. The park plays host to a calendar packed with various special events and festivals throughout the year.

A handful of shops, restaurants, hotels and public parking lots are within walking distance, helping to make the plaza an ideal spot to take a quiet break and maybe brush the sand off after a day at the beach. Usually. The “quiet” doesn’t really apply for about six weeks from late November through New Year’s Day, when the park is packed with lights, people and music for Deck the Chairs.

WHEN YOU VISIT

V Dozens of lighted “Lifeguard Chairs” are arrayed throughout the park November 22-January 1. Light shows take place every night, running on the hour. The chairs are created by local volunteers, civic groups, businesses and schools. Two weeks before event’s conclusion, awards are presented and bragging rights bestowed for the year.

V Holiday merchandise, ornaments and gifts are for sale by vendors. There’s plenty to eat, as well. Hot cocoa, coffee, sweet treats, classic fair food and more are offered in the concession areas.

V Like many locations east of 3rd Street at the beach, finding open parking can be a challenge. There is a large public lot nearby but it tends to fill up early for festivals and on particularly nice weather days. Public lots are free, private lots will charge a free.

MUST SEE Every Saturday during the event a series of afternoon and early evening musical performances are staged at the Pavilion. For example, on December 9 the day kicks off with the annual Tuba Xmas, a brass-lovers spectacle of big horns and deep notes. The concert is followed by a collection of local dance studio presentations including First Coast Centre for the Arts, Level Up Dance and Showtime USA. The acclaimed Navy Band Southeast takes the stage the following Saturday afternoon.

To Serve and Protect A short walk south of the Plaza sits the Red Cross tower, a Jax Beach architectural landmark. Built in 1947 and on the National Register of Historic Places, the tower and adjacent lifeguard station have stood watch over swimmers for generations. It was here that, in 1919, “surfman” Henry Walters invented the torpedo buoy, a cylindrical floating lifesaving device that was pointed on both ends. Walters’ basic design is still used by lifeguards around the world today. u

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JAX FILES

FURRY & FEATHERED FRIENDS

Picture Pawfect Garfield Orange Tabby, 13 years old

Much like his namesake, this big and lazy cat loves to lounge, bask in the sunlight and beg for treats. He is a very social feline and will cuddle with just about anyone who is willing. Although he’s no longer the active kitty he once was, his younger brother, Furia, keeps him on the prowl. The two enjoy playing hide-and-seek and chasing each other all over the house. And while he doesn’t have a comic strip of his own, he is certainly one funny cat.

Dakota Bernadoodle, ten months old

There’s nothing this little pup enjoys more than having some grated cheese on top of her food. Dakota loves going to the beach, especially for Yappy Hours at the Lodge & Club in Ponte Vedra. Her owners say she is the happiest of dogs. “She never met a stranger in her short life,” they say.

“She’ll melt your heart with those pitiful eyes.”

Kobe Mini Goldendoodle, two years old

WANT TO SEE YOUR BELOVED ANIMAL IN JAX MAG? Nominations for Picture Pawfect pets can be made via our website, under the heading Reader Polls.

Previously featured Picture Pawfect pets may be viewed there, too.

20 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

According to her owners, Kobe is a natural-born surgeon. “She will dissect any stuffed animal and make a small incision to pull out the squeaky toy inside,” they say. She’s also a people person. In fact, she may think she’s a person. “She can sit anywhere for hours and listen to a band play, or sit at a dinner table and will never bark.” Kobe, the only girl from a litter of seven, is very intelligent. She knows all the basic doggy tricks, can dance on two legs and will grab her leash when she needs to go outside. u

JAX FILES

TRAVEL

Jeckyll Island Club Resort at Christmas

Holly Jolly

BY LINTON TAYLOR

O

nce an exclusive haven and wintertime retreat for industry magnates including the Vanderbilts and Rockefeller’s, today Georgia’s Jekyll Island is open to everyone, provided one can pay the $10 toll to cross from the causeway onto the island. The vacation retreat is popular for its beaches, biking and hiking trails, golf courses, oceanside resort hotels and natural beauty, as well as attractions such as the historic “cottages,” Summer Waves waterpark and the Georgia Sea Turtle Center.

While Jekyll is a desirable destination for a weekend getaway from Jax year-round, it’s arguable that the holiday season is the best time to visit.

From November 24 through January 7, the island is virtually flooded with holiday cheer, twinkling lights and special seasonal events.

Holly Jolly Jekyll is the island’s annual festival that features about a million bulbs glowing each evening and some 350 lighted dis-

22 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

plays peppered across the landscape, from the beach to the historic district. There’s a trolly tour that you can take and allow someone else to do the driving. Or, pack your vehicle with the kids, pets and friends and join the lines of cars meandering around the neighborhoods and historic properties.

There’s a rolling light parade on December 9. The event is open to the public, both cars and golf carts ($10 registration required), and there are prizes for the best illuminated decorations. Among the many other seasonal happenings are the December 2 Winter Carnival & Big Truck Roundup, with carnival rides and various emergency vehicles to climb on, and drive-in movie screenings of Mickey’s Christmas Carol December 20 and 27. Look to the sky for fireworks the evenings of December 21 and 28. Of course, there will be plenty to eat and drink at popular dining spots including The Wharf, Tortuga Jacks and Zachry’s Riv-

erhouse. Shopping is limited, though there are a few stores at the retail village near the Westin and a couple of shops within the historic district.

Sitting like a Victorian wedding cake atop the green grass and surrounded by swaying palms and oak trees, the Jekyll Island Club Resort is the jewel of the island. The historic hotel dives all in for Christmas with ribbons, bows, wreaths and lights adorning the lobby lounge, ballroom and restaurant, as well as the exterior of the circa-1888 main building and the surrounding properties. The hotel also hosts a series of holiday-themed special events throughout December. High Tea with four courses of light bites is served every Thursday afternoon, a gingerbread house decorating class takes place December 9, and Lunch With Santa continues the family fun on December 16. And the Grand Dining Room is the setting for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day meals. u

WILD NIGHTS Wild Adventures Theme Park is well-known across the Southeast for its thrill rides and exotic animal displays. This season, the Georgia attraction takes its entertainment cues from the North Pole with six weeks of Christmas Wild & Bright. The bears, birds and buffalo remain in their pens, but much of the park is bedazzled in lights and Xmas decor. There’s the Gingerbread Village, where guests can roast marshmallows and indulge in other sweet treats, and the star of each evening is the Carol of the Animals Lake Show, a sound and light spectacle highlighted by seven animated Christmas Trees. Plus, there’s the Candy Cane Express ride, Tunnel of Stars, Santa’s Outpost and live musical nativity performances. The festival kicks off November 18 and continues on select days through December 31. Wild Adventures is located south of Atlanta, off I-75 in Valdosta. u

Harry Christmas No doubt, Harry Potter fans will don their finest robes and wands for the season’s nighttime spectacle “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle,” skating into Universal Orlando Resort daily through December 31. Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure hosts an evening projection show highlighting holiday moments and spirit inspired by the characters and stories of the Harry Potter books and films. In addition, the Frog Choir, comprised of Hogwarts students and their giant croaking frogs present holiday-themed performances. Head down Diagon Alley to see one of the wizarding world’s most popular singers, Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees. We hear chocolate frogs make for terrific stocking stuffers. u

JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

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JAX FILES

HOUSE HUNTING

Number$ Game What’s been selling lately in northeast florida. And for how much.

NEIGHBORHOOD

ADDRESS

SQ. FEET

SELLER

PRIOR SALE PRICE SALE PRICE

DAYS ON MARKET

Ponte Vedra

128 Rialto Dr

2,108

Keller Williams Realty

623,630

386,700 (2018)

55

Ponte Vedra

100 Tree Side Ln

2,770

Compass Florida

950,000

526,755 (2017)

18

San Marco

2311 Laurel Rd

5,418

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network

1,380,000

855,000 (2019)

86

San Marco

1266 Belmont Ter

2,050

Phyllis Frankel Realty Group

585,000

410,000 (2017)

1

Jacksonville Beach 621 16th Ave South

6,250

Engel & Volkers First Coast

522,500

135,000 (2002)

24

Arlington

1235 Windsor Harbor Dr

8,290

Re/Max Specialists PV

2,900,000

2,050,000 (2021)

15

Orange Park

645 Kilchurn Dr

3,485

Engel & Völkers First Coast

30,000

379,000 (2021)

47

Mandarin

2647 Woodfern Ln

2,913

EXP Realty

600,000

365,000 (2014)

70

Springfield

2983 Brougham Ave

2,699

Watson Realty Amelia Island

890,000

825,000 (2021)

30

Avondale

1398 Belvedere Ave

2,343

Watson Realty Ortega

789,000

589,000 (2019)

30

Neptune Beach

1001 Neptune Ln

2,946

Watson Realty

925,000

25,300 (1970)

57

Neptune Beach

2014 Marye Brant Loop S.

2,362

Keller Williams Realty

805,000

440,000 (2014)

84

Murray Hill

9835 Kings Crossing Dr

2,580

Momentum Realty

575,000

485,000 (2021)

18

Fruit Cove

239 Flach Dr

2,980

INI Realty

650,000

450,000 (2020)

74

Riverside

1815 Mallory St

2,492

GC And Associates Realty

750,000

625,000 (2018)

18

Riverside

2253 Herschel St

2,054

Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty

540,000

296,300 (2005)

57

Ortega

2810 Grand Ave

1,780

Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty

620,000

370,400 (2009)

36

Ortega

2832 Iroquois Ave

1200

Compass Florida

510,000

279,900 (2023)

21

Atlantic Beach

1732 Atlantic Beach Dr

3,070

Momentum Realty

1,725,000

1,550,000 (2022)

27

Atlantic Beach

1850 N Sherry Dr

2,121

Watson Realty

850,000

152,500 (1992)

18

e One Riverside is steadily rising on the site that used to be home to the Florida Times-Union campus. When complete, the $250-million, 19-acre mixed-use development located along the Northbank Riverwalk will include retail and restaurant space, apartments with a waterside pool, a 625-space parking garage, and a Whole Foods Market, which will sit near the footprint of the razed T-U building. Developer TriBridge Residential broke ground on the project in September of 2022. According to published reports, completion of phase one and its 270 apartments and a restaurant is anticipated by the end of 2024. u

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JAX FILES

HISTORY

Robert Burns is Here

BY TIM GILMORE

H

is face is crumbling. Beneath the magnolias, the poet’s visage looks mottled, venous and slightly blue. Standing beneath his 15-foot-tall column, one can barely discern his lips, his nostrils, the sockets for his eyes. He looked proud once, proclaiming his love “like a red, red rose,” this author of “Auld Lang Syne” and “Address to a Haggis.”

It’s true. Jacksonville, a city that’s argued with itself about whether or not or how to commemorate its most famous literary progeny, James Weldon Johnson, for decades, has boasted a bust of the Scottish national poet Robert Burns in the recently renamed Springfield Park for almost a century. Dublin has its statue of James Joyce as every ten steps of the city features in Joyce’s 1920 novel Ulysses. In London, every street seems to host a plaque about Virginia Woolf writing a novel here, or T.S. Eliot penning a poem there. Edinburgh’s dark gothic memorial to Sir Walter Scott is the second largest literary monument in the world, behind only Havana’s José Martí.

Besides Edinburgh’s Burns statue, its Burns Monument would be the largest literary structure in just about any other city.

It’s not as strange as it might seem, however, to find a memorial to Robert Burns, beneath a magnolia in the Deep South in a park until recently named for the Confederacy. The South once pictured itself in romance and honor, even chivalry, standing against a treacherous North.

Much of the white population of the South had directly descended from Scottish immigrants, tough proud people forged in the Calvinist humility. It was easy, too easy, for white Southerners to see the South-as-Scotland fighting honorably against the tyranny of the North-as-England. The South’s favorite novel was hardly Uncle Tom’s Cabin. It was Walter Scott’s Ivanhoe.

In 1883, writing for Harper’s Magazine, Mark Twain tore savagely into the legacy of the Scottish novelist: “Then comes Sir Walter Scott with his enchantments, and by his single might checks this wave of progress, and even turns it back; sets the world in love with dreams and phantoms; with decayed and swinish forms of religion; with decayed and degraded systems of government; with the sillinesses and emptinesses, sham grandeurs, sham gauds, and sham chivalries of a brainless and worthless long-vanished society.”

Then Twain blames Walter Scott for the Civil War: “Sir Walter had so large a hand in making Southern character, as it existed before the war, that he is in great measure responsible for Continued on page 28

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Good Sports The Florida Sports Hall of Fame recently inducted its class of 2023. The mission of the organization is to honor the state’s sports heritage by sharing the inspiring stories of its nearly 300 members. The induction ceremony was a gala affair held November 8 at the Florida Theatre. The Hall was founded by the Florida Sports Writers Association and the Florida Sportscasters Association in 1961. To be eligible, candidates must have been born in the state of Florida, have significant state ties, or spent a substantial part of their amateur or professional careers in our state. Honored as part of this year’s class are Jaxsons Leroy Butler, who was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame two years ago, founding Jaguars coach and two-time Super Bowl winner Tom Coughlin, and gold medal-winning gymnast Shannon Miller. Also inducted were NBA legend Vince Carter, soccer coach Ashlyn Harris and former Major League Baseball pitcher Jeff Johnson. u

From Cottages to Castles

Tom Coughlin

REMEMBER WHEN? Slavery in the Americas began long before European settlers brought enslaved people to the colonies. It started much earlier, in present-day Florida. This is among the many unusual chapters from history that Dr. Kevin Kokomoor, a fourth-generation Floridian, explores in his recently released book, La Florida: Catholics, Conquistadors, and Other American Origin Stories (Pineapple Press, $35). In the 440-page hardback, the author follows Spanish sailors discovering the edges of a new continent and greedy, violent conquistadors on the hunt for riches, along with Catholic missionaries searching for religious converts. Kokomoor details how Spanish colonialism in Florida sparked British plans for colonization in the New World and influenced some of the most enduring traditions of the Southeast. For example, the origins of barbecue cooking can be traced to Spanish and Native American traditions rooted here, and the first American cowboys didn’t learn to ride in Texas. No, they did so in Floriada. The author discusses his new book and more unknown history of Florida on January 12 at the Amelia Island Museum of History. u

ELIZABETH HUDGINS

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+ SARAH ALEXANDER

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the war. It seems a little harsh toward a dead man to say that we never should have had any war but for Sir Walter; and yet something of a plausible argument might, perhaps, be made in support of that wild proposition.”

The relationship between the South and Scott aside, however, monuments to Robert Burns exist all over the world. Fans of British literature everywhere celebrate Burns Night and feast at Burns Suppers on January 25th, the Scottish bard’s birthday. Love for Rabbie Burns seems less categorizable than Sir Walter’s long-waned fandom. A partial list of Burns monument sites in the U.S. includes Houston and Atlanta, Boston and New York City, Denver and Detroit, Chicago and Pittsburgh, San Francisco and St. Louis; Cheyenne, Wyoming and Barre, Vermont.

The plaque at the bottom of Jacksonville’s monument says it was erected by the Robert Burns Association of Jacksonville. Similar associations proliferated across the country in the early 20th century, though few Burns monuments have materialized in the U.S. since Jacksonville’s was dedicated in 1930.

From the 19-aughts through the ’20s, local newspapers carried annual news briefs about

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the Burns Association’s celebrations of the poet’s birthday. A mid-December 1905 report said the Burns Association would “erect a building for the society.” The plan dissipated, though The Gainesville Sun quoted Burns himself in promising it: “Scots, wha hae wi’ Wallace bled, / Scots, wham Bruce has aften led; / Welcome to your gory bed, / Or to victory!”

One of the names on the dedicatory plaque in Springfield Park is that of James Stevens Maxwell, a Miami attorney who didn’t live to see the Burns monument he’d envisioned for years. His November 21, 1923 obituary in The Miami News, which bore the headline, “Prominent Attorney of Miami is Called by Angel of Death,” said Maxwell, whose “family came to Florida from Georgia,” was “of Scotch descent” and that he’d served as president of the Robert Burns Association of Jacksonville “for several years.”

In 1928, at the height of Prohibition, the chaplain of the Robert Burns Memorial Association in Tampa, a “Rev. Dr. Wylie,” issued a public proclamation that he “regret[ed] that Burns drank so much.” Wylie said, “It is too bad, but it is not certain that he would have written the same poetry on an ice-water diet.”

In 1930, when Mayor John T. Alsop spoke at the

monument’s dedication, it was customary for businessmen to take Wednesday afternoons off. A small crowd of professional men made their way into the shadow of the much called “In Memory of Our Women of the Southland.” Alsop said, “Our people are becoming more interested in making this city a cultural city.” He called Jacksonville “now the finest place on earth,” but said it needed “to continue to be a better place in which to live.” The city’s main newspaper called his speech “brief but inspiring.”

Then the local Burns Association faltered and faded. The neighborhood of Springfield was doing the same. After the next world war, the whole central city faltered. The statue faded and lost definition. Most people no longer knew it was there and most of the people who knew it was there had no idea to whom the fading face belonged.

Perhaps in decades to come, the Burns statue might take part in a growing list as Jacksonville memorializes writers who once called it home or wrote something noteworthy here: James Weldon Johnson, Stephen Crane, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Paul Laurence Dunbar, Zora Neale Hurston, Harry Crews and others.

Surely “our people” are continually “interested in making this city a cultural city.” u

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LIFE

Age of Influence

BY AMY WEST

F

lawless photos splashed across social media. The finest destinations, the best food, the trendiest clothes. There’s no denying it. Influencers appear to have very privileged jobs. But what is it they actually do? From the outside looking in, it may appear they get all the goods for doing very little besides taking a few photos and hitting upload. However, if you take a peek behind the curtain, you might be surprised how much work actually goes into building that online presence, keeping it, and monetizing it into something of value.

According to Hubspot 72% of Gen Z and Millenial’s follow influencers on social media and 50% of millennials trust product recommendations from influencers. When a millennial or Gen Z-er is looking to make a purchase, she is going to a trusted influencer to gain insight on where to shop, eat, and book the next trip. In fact when it comes to conversion 33% of Gen Z-ers said they made a purchase based on an influencer recommendation in the past three months.

Jacksonville Influencer Katrice Shorter (@willworkforheels on Instagram) began her work as an influencer in 2011 as a fun way to share her daily outfits, and favorite restaurants. Today her instagram has evolved from a hobby, into a

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lifestyle. Her followers rely on her insight for the latest trends, and dining destinations both local and beyond. She has partnered with national brands such as McDonald’s and Firehouse Subs, as well as more local names like 1928 Cuban Bistro. In the midst of her busy life as a High School honors science teacher and avid traveler, she carves out time daily to create content to serve her audience. “In this era of video, most businesses seek to collaborate with Reels, Tiktoks, and IG stories,” she says. “The time it takes to create content for any given campaign varies depending on the scope of the work for the campaign. However, if uninterrupted, creating a Reel takes an hour to 90 minutes for me.”

Fashion and decor influencer Aubrey Alley (@ aubrey.alley on Instagram) concurs, adding, “Depending on the type of content (video vs still image) I can usually shoot both within a couple hours. There’s usually an hour or so of research and gathering props in the days leading up to creation, and then I’d say maybe two hours of edit time after. Again, It truly just depends on what the content is and if we’re only using an iphone or if we’re getting drone shots and other professional cameras involved.”

Travel influencer, author, and podcast host Angie Orth’s (@angieaway on Instagram) content

can take even longer based on the commitment with the brand. “Most of my campaigns are long-term partnerships so they can take 40 hours or longer to execute. It’s rare for me to do a one-off social media post but even that could be an eight-hour process.”

These “creators,” as they prefer to be called, are experts at identifying what makes a brand special, and cleverly sharing that with their followers. ”I started working with influencers as soon as I opened my public relations company. As well as working with traditional media like TV, radio, magazines, and newspapers,” says Kara Pound, owner and founder of Old City Public Relations. “I saw that influencers could also help amplify my client’s messaging. I quickly added media events to my list of services for clients and regularly host restaurant openings and other free events for members of the media and influencers to attend.”

“I think that a lot of local places don’t have the budget to afford a bunch of paid collaborations, so a lot of times local business shout outs just come from genuinely wanting to help people. Or exchange for a product or free meal.” says Ty Kelly, who has some 1.2 million followers as a Faith, Marriage, and Fatherhood TikTok star (@ty.kelly.official on TikTok).

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One local brand Ty and his wife Haley have partnered with is Amara Med Spa who made it a priority to seek out strong regional influencers to launch their company. “Influencer marketing was instrumental in launching our brand in Jacksonville and will definitely be replicated as we launch four new locations in the Tampa area next year. Our business is aesthetic, so utilizing Influencers was a natural fit as seeing is believing, and personal reviews make all the difference,” says Greg Smith, founder and CEO of Amara Med Spa. Executive Chef Joe Natoli formerly of Sawgrass Marriott credits Influencers for putting his new concepts for the resort on the map during his time there, pushing him and his team to excel. “We learned to plate through a lens. Influencers kept us at the top of our game. You never knew where one of your creators would show up.

You gave us a name, and we repaid you with the newest and coolest.

The energy created in the kitchen, knowing an influencer would be in sparked a whole new level of creativity, pride, and love for the game.”

For the influencer, the pay is good

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if you’re hoping for likes and free meals. But how do these creators make all this time and creativity a career and the work they do amount to dollars and cents? In my own personal experience, compensation with local businesses has ranged from small fees to product. It largely depends on how familiar I am with the business, what they offer, and if I find that the product is valuable enough to work for trade or if the time and effort involved in creation simply demands monetary compensation. Most national brand partnerships do come with checks attached, however, many small businesses don’t have the budget to pull off large campaigns. Fortunately, there are many options when it comes to content on social media. From stories, to reels, static posts, to user generated content, blog posts, and long term Brand Amassadorships, whatever the budget, one can probably find a way to make it work if the partnership makes sense.

“Social media is a fun way to make a timely splash in a target market, and I find that Stories work particularly well for local businesses. They’re great for

Hey, Watch This...

Trim that mullet, iron you favorite pair of jorts and get ready for the inaugural Florida Man Games taking place February 24 at Francis Field in the heart of downtown St. Augustine. Among the irreverent events featured at the Games are the Evading Arrest Obstacle Course and Beer Belly Sumo Wrestling. “These games are just like the Florida Man headlines,” says festival organizer Pete Melfi.

“As someone who covers Florida news, you think you’ve seen it all, and then something comes along that still manages to surprise you. I thought, let’s embrace this and make it fun. This is a legal way for all to enjoy the Florida Man lifestyle.” The festival will also feature entertainment including a mullet contest and cultural demonstrations with gators, datil peppers, SWAT vehicles and more. Tickets start at $45 and, for the ultimate Florida Man experience, $145 gets you reserved seating, beverages and access to the VIP restrooms—which, considering the setting ought to be a run-down Winnebago on blocks next to a broken trampoline. u

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WATER WORLD In late October, ground was officially broken at the new Manatee River habitat and a dramatic new entrance plaza at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. The two projects are the second phase of the attraction’s ReZoovenation campaign, a multi-year plan to enhance the zoo’s facilities. Manatee River will be an innovative center for manatees receiving treatment at the Jax Zoo. Being one of the few federally permitted acute care facilities for the gentle aquatic mammals, up to six injured, sick or orphaned manatees currently can be treated here. As an expansion of the existing Manatee Critical Care Center, Manatee River will feature an additional four treatment pools and three habitats, effectively tripling the Zoo’s rehabilitation efforts with 330,000 gallons of space. The largest campaign of it’s kind in the zoo’s 110-year history, the $70-million ReZoovenation consists of other planned construction projects including a new education center, an immersive lion habitat with a scenic overlook, an updated elephant enclosure and the addition of orangutans to the current menagerie of some 2,000 animals. u

short term offers or seasonal announcements. For long term awareness, the gold standard will always be SEO-optimized blog content. It lasts forever and can be searched for years after publication.” says Orth. She would know.

With over 100,000 combined social followers, Angie is an OG influencer. Leaving her NYC job as a publicist in 2008 she set off to travel the world blogging about her adventures along the way.

“Unfortunately there’s still a lot of confusion on the value of influencer marketing, particularly in smaller markets and with small businesses. When I speak at conferences, it’s usually on this topic,” Orth continues. “You can have ten different marketing executives in a room and they’ve got ten competing ideas on how influencer marketing works and what it does. It certainly makes working in this industry interesting.”

Most Jax Influencers promote local businesses, but there is still a gap when it comes to the value of their services and the ability of small businesses to provide adequate compensation. For Influencers, the struggle to be taken seriously for their services is still a daily reality. “I would love businesses to rec-

ognize that content creation and influencing is a profession that should be compensated for as such,” says Shorter. “It is only right to fairly compensate a content creator for the work they put in to bring awareness to your brand. That beautiful one-minute Reel that shows your business in the most glorious and engaging way probably took several hours to create.”

Of all an Influencer’s talents, perhaps one of the greatest is their ability to pivot and adapt. No matter what new social outlet bursts onto the scene, they know it’s part of their job to take it in stride, be an early adapter, and keep their personal brand relevant. With that in mind, influencers must always looking forward.

In Orth’s experience, we are in for some big changes. “Influencer marketing changes drastically every 18-24 months and that’s going to continue,” she says.

“We can expect massive evolution with AI and a continued focus on long-term partnerships that make sense for brands and creators. The best creators will stick around and those who can’t keep up with the ever-changing targets will move on to other projects.” u

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FAMILY

Guana Reserve

Nature’s Best

BY FABRIZIO GOWDY

F

or much of the year the Sunshine State is hot, muggy and buggy. We’re not breaking news with that revelation. But for a few precious winter months, temperatures cool, humidity drops, and even those pesky mosquitoes seem to disappear. While the rest of the nation shovels snow and curses freezing temps, Floridians bask under crisp, blue skies and pleasant sweater weather—the perfect time to experience the region’s many beautiful outdoor spaces. With that in mind, here’s a list of our top outdoor pursuits to experience this season. So, in Northeast Florida the Best Place to …

CATCH A METEOR SHOWER Stephen C. Foster State Park, Fargo The shortest days of the year coincide nicely with the strongest meteor shower of the

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year, the Geminids. At its peak on the night of December 13, stargazers with good viewing conditions can expect to see up to 120 meteors per hour. The dark skies above Okefenokee Swamp—among the darkest in the Southeast—are an excellent place to take in the show. A 90-minute drive from the light pollution of Downtown Jax, Stephen C. Foster State Park is the deepest you can get into Okefenokee without getting your feet wet. Open until 10 PM for non-campers, $5 dollars per vehicle.

CAST YOUR LINE Reddie Point Preserve, Arlington Jacksonville has no shortage of piers, docks, and fishing spots, but Reddie Point is among the most scenic. The 700-foot fishing pier at the very tip of the Arlington peninsula offers excellent sunrise and sunset

views of Downtown, Goat Island, Jaxport, and the Dames Point Bridge. The 102-acre preserve also includes a short network of walking trails with scenic river and marsh overlooks. The views of the St. Johns River are pretty special, too.

TAKE A SCENIC DRIVE Highway A1A, Crescent Beach to Ormond Beach December might not be ideal beach weather, but cooler temps don’t diminish the unobstructed ocean views and coastal scenery of Hwy. A1A, and traffic is usually a little lighter during the off-season. With Washington Oaks State Park, Fort Matanzas, Marineland, and Flagler Beach all on the route, there’s plenty to do and see without getting wet. For a scenic drive a bit closer to Jax, try the stretch of A1A from Ponte Ve-

dra to St. Augustine. When you pass through Guana State Park, be sure to climb the dune-top overlooks to take in simultaneous views of the undeveloped beach and Guana River.

FIND SOME PEACE AND QUIET Cary State Forest If you’re in need of some silence and solitude, Cary State Forest is the place for you. Florida’s second-oldest state forest, Cary covers over 13,000 acres straddling Duval and Nassau counties and contains a dozen miles of trails and logging roads. As you go deeper into the mature flatwoods, sandhill and basin marsh, you might forget you’re less than 15 miles from Downtown. Wildlife you might encounter include deer, turkey, bobcat, otter, gator, great horned and barred owl, wild hog, pine woods tree frog, and various species of birds and snakes. Open during daylight hours, $2 per person.

WATCH A ROCKET LAUNCH Playalinda Beach at Canaveral National Seashore It’s been a busy 2023 at Cape Canaveral, with SpaceX alone launching more 70 orbital missions this year. If you want to get as close as possible to the action, it’s hard to beat the view from Playalinda Beach, located just 3.6 miles north of the launchpad. The beachside park is open 6 AM to 6 PM, $20 per vehicle. The drive south takes a couple hours, however, clears days and nights, one need not drive all the way down to the Cape to see the spectacle of a rocket launch. The orange glow of a rocket streaking through the night sky can be seen for hundreds of miles. Just find a dark stretch of beach or elevated vantage point with an unobstructed view to the Southeast. Check sites like www.floridatoday.com/ space/ for upcoming launch information and live updates.

HIKE OR BIKE SOMEWHERE NEW Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve If you pride yourself on your physical endurance, Guana is worth your while. It’s hard to find a park in Northeast Florida with a more extensive trail system. Sandy paths run 13 miles north to south through alternating marshes, grasslands, palms, pines, and oaks.

A pair of observation towers reward your effort with an increasingly rare view of the First Coast’s unspoiled natural beauty. Trail terrain varies from packed gravel to loose sand, so wider tires are recommended if you plan on biking. For a closer access point and some

DOGGONE GOOD! Sit! Stay! Shake hands… Most any well-behaved pup can master these tricks. But, to learn to balance on a rolling barrel or do a back flip on command, takes time, patience and a skilled trainer. Having a talented and willing dog helps, too. Some of the most talented four-legged athletes are coming to Jax for a never-before-seen canine extravaganza, Mutts Gone Nuts UNLEASHED, being staged January 20 at the Florida Theatre.

Featuring Alexandra Coté, a fan favorite from America’s Got Talent, and disc dog world champion trainer Bonnie Scott, the afternoon event also includes an on-stage meet-and-greet with the dogs and a Q&A session with the acclaimed trainers. So, who let the dogs out?

Come to the show and see for yourself. u

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FAMILY different trails, try the North entrance off of South Roscoe Boulevard near the Palm Valley Road bridge. Open 8 AM to sunset, $3 per vehicle.

COMBINE NATURE AND HISTORY Kingsley Plantation Kingsley Plantation on Fort George Island is an outdoor history lesson on the legacy of slavery in Northeast Florida. Audio tours are available, or you can walk around the 225-year-old planter’s house, ruins of slave quarters, and other structures at your own pace. The planter’s house has open houses most Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10 AM to noon and 2 to 4 PM. Regardless of your grade in American History class, it doesn’t take a history buff to appreciate Fort George Island’s natural beauty. The drive from busy Heckscher Drive to the historic Kingsley home alone is a treat. A narrow dirt road twists through tangled oaks, with views of the vast Timucuan Ecological Preserve and, if you’re lucky, the wild peacocks that strut the island. Open 9 AM to 5 PM, Wednesday through Sunday.

STOP AND SMELL THE ROSES Jacksonville Arboretum and Botanical Gardens Nestled between the I-295 beltway and sprawling Arlington subdivisions, it’s an unlikely place to find a 126-acre nature preserve, but the Jacksonville Arboretum is a great place to slow down, unwind, and soak up the crisp winter weather.

Three miles of trails wind through several distinct ecological habitats, with over 100 local species of plants and trees labeled along the way. Take a stroll, hang your hammock, or dive into a book. The lake in the center of the park is postcard pretty.

And it’s truly wild, as a ten-foot alligator calls it home. So, no swimming, please. $3 per person. Drop your cash in the box near the entrance.

MOUNTAIN BIKE Jeremy’s Hill Jacksonville’s hottest new mountain bike park is a real dump—or at least it used to be. Jeremy’s Hill (soon to be renamed Trek Trails at Atero Park) is a former landfill turned recreation site. Thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies will love these trails, which feature tight turns and the most dramatic elevation changes in Northeast Florida. In late October, the privately owned park announced it would be opening to the general public on weekends during daylight hours, with plans to be open daily within 45 days. Follow SORBA Jax on Facebook and check instagram for information on group rides, mountain bike races, and other events. u

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Jacksonville Jaguars The Jags 2023 NFL campaign rolls into December with a pair of games against two teams that stand between them and a second consecutive year making the playoffs. Quarterback Joe Burrow leads the Cincinnati Bengals in a Monday Night showdown, followed a couple of weeks later by another primetime clash with the Baltimore Ravens and their fleet-footed QB Lamar Jackson. The team’s regular season home schedule ends with a New Year’s Eve game versus the Carolina Panthers, 1 PM. Can we get a “Duuuvalll!” $50-$1,000.

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PHOTO BY ANDREW VARNES

DECEMBER 7 & 17, 8 PM | EverBank Stadium

A1A Super Scenic Garage Sale NOVEMBER 18, 8 AM-2 PM A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway It might be the most scenic garage sale in the country. Vendors of all sorts gather along the road for some 150 miles down the coast— from Ponte Vedra through Vilano Beach, Crescent Beach, Marineland and Hammock Beach. Drive safe and bring cash.

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas NOVEMBER 21, 7:30 PM Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts Nearly as synonymous with Christmas as holly and mistletoe, Mannheim Steamroller is celebrating 35 years of making holiday concert magic as the orchestra brings its annual Xmas tour to stages across the nation, $32-$77

San Marco Art Festival NOVEMBER 25 & 26 Balis Park A River City tradition for two decades, the historic neighborhood of San Marco hosts a two-day celebration featuring hundreds of handmade works including glass, photography, painting, jewelry and more. Visitors are invited to enjoy the festival and then dine and shop in beautiful San Marco Square, free.

Jacksonville Iceman NOVEMBER 25, 29 & DECEMBER 2, 16, 20 AND 22 VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena The South Carolina Stingrays, Florida Everblades and the Orlando Solar Bears skate into town to play the hometown Iceman as the East Coast Hockey League season heads into 2024, $20-$75

Taylor Swift Laser Party NOVEMBER 26, 7 PM Florida Theatre It’s official. Taylor Swift has taken over the world. Need more proof?

Swifties of all ages can immerse themselves in Tay Tay’s music while surrounded by synchronized lasers and lights. Much singing and dancing and shaking it off is expected, $30.

Shaun Cassidy NOVEMBER 25, 8 PM

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall

He’s a writer, producer, actor and singer. However, for many, Cassidy will always be known for his role on the Hardy Boys TV series and his gorgeous hair of the 1970s.

While still in high school, he signed a contract with Warner Brothers records, a deal that led to three platinum albums and numerous hit songs including “Da Doo Ron Ron” and “Do You Believe in Magic?”

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SOCIAL CALENDAR

Seen

Living Legends Some might have called it a “legendary” evening. The night of September 15, nearly 300 guests gathered at TPC Sawgrass for the tenth annual Beaches Legends gala. The three honorees for 2023 were Joe Mitrick, Clare Berry and coach George Paugh. Emceed by TV newsman Vic Micolucci, the affair included live and silent auctions and a special video presentation documenting the last decade. The event is a benefit for the Beaches Museum and more than $200,000 was raised this year to support the organization’s programs and facilities. u

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UPCOMING: The third annual St. Francis House Festival of Trees takes place December 4-7 at The Lightner Museum in St. Augustine. The fundraiser features a display of beautifully decorated trees and wreaths which are available for purchase via a silent auction, holiday music, letters to Santa, door prizes and more, all benefitting homeless youth and families in Northeast Florida.

Among the highlights of the First Coast Design Show, December 1-3, at the Prime Osborn Convention Center, is Friday’s black-tie Opening Night Gala. A benefit for Wolfson Children’s Hospital, the Benefactor Reception begins at 6 PM, followed by dinner and dancing starting at 7 PM. Designer lectures, book signings, flower workshops, a children’s fashion show and more round out the three-day event schedule.

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DATEBOOK

Johnny Cash: The Official Concert Experience NOVEMBER 28, 7:30 PM Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts Bringing songs and stories from the “Man in Black” to the stage in a way that audiences haven’t seen or heard before. With video of Johnny from episodes of The Johnny Cash TV Show projected on a screen above the stage, a live band and singers will accompany him in perfect sync, $32-$72

Big Band Holidays NOVEMBER 30, 7 PM First Baptist Church, Fernandina Beach Legendary trumpet player and band leader Wynton Marsalis returns to Northeast Florida and he’s bringing his Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and vocalist Ashley Pezzotti with him for a concert as part of the Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival, $80-$120.

Jacksonville Symphony: Tchaikovsky & Barner DECEMBER 1 & 2, 7:30 PM Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts Tour-de-force pianist Joyce Yang returns to the Symphony with Barber’s lyrical and rich piano concerto, a lustrous showcase for both piano and pianist. Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony places the brass section at the heart of this piece that shepherds the audience from a dramatic and stormy beginning to a triumphant and celebratory conclusion, $29-$84.

The Book of Mormon DECEMBER 1-3 Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts The New York Times calls it “the best musical of this century.” The Washington Post says, “It is the kind of evening that restores your faith in musicals.” And Entertainment Weekly says, “Grade A: the funniest musical of all time.” And you have five chances to see it live on the Jax stage, $31-$136

S.E.A. Gullah Geechee Heritage Festival DECEMBER 2, NOON-5 PM Armstrong Park, Elkton Food, music, dance performances, craft demonstrations and presentations from a variety of cultural organizations come together for a celebration of the 450 years of West African influences on the rural communities of Spuds, Elton and Armstrong, free.

Whose Live Anyway?

DECEMBER 3, 7 PM Florida Theatre Comedians Joel Murray, Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops and Jeff B. Davis join forces for a 90-minute show of improvised comedy and song, all based on audience suggestions. Audience participation is the key and some may find themselves invited onto the stage, $39-$59.

Jacksonville Symphony: Holiday Pops DECEMBER 7-10, 3 PM AND 7:30 PM Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts Jacksonville’s most vibrant holiday tradition returns with guest conductor Tim Hankewich, Broadway veteran Ryan Silverman, the Symphony Chorus and dancers from Douglas Anderson School of the Arts. Celebrate “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” and rejoice in holiday classics as a stunning indoor snowfall swirls all around Jacoby Symphony Hall, $29-$71.

Pop Up in the Park DECEMBER 10, NOON-4 PM James Weldon Johnson Park Downtown’s favorite public park plays host to Holiday Market, a day of pop-up vendor shopping, as well food trucks, kids games, music and plenty of seasonal good cheer and bargains.

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DATEBOOK

One Achord Christmas Concert DECEMBER 10 & 11, 7 PM San Jose Church of Christ, 6233 San Jose Blvd.

Seventy local vocalists and musicians take the stage for He Is, a spiritual Christmas concert benefitting five area non-profit organizations, $10-$60.

Lewis Black DECEMBER 15, 8 PM Florida Theatre Sure, he can be grumpy and angry at times. Well, most of the time. But Black, who likes to say he rants and yells so you don’t have to, is one of the most prolific and popular stand-up comedians working today, $35-$75.

Steve Miller Band DECEMBER 16, 7:30 PM St. Augustine Amphitheatre Guitarist, multi-platinum-selling singer-songwriter, bandleader, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, and Songwriters Hall of Fame electee Steve Miller—who some people call a space cowboy or a gangster of love—is back on the road, this time with the Samantha Fish Band, $54-$184.

Jacksonville Symphony: Handel’s Messiah DECEMBER 16, 7:30 PM, AND DECEMBER 17, 3 PM Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts Music Director Courtney Lewis and the Symphony are joined by the brightest solo voices and the full Jacksonville Symphony Chorus to deliver the uplifting and majestic gift of Handel’s Messiah, $29-$84.

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DECEMBER 20, 7:30 PM Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts One of TV’s longest running game shows comes to the River City. Guests are randomly selected to go on stage and feel like they have stepped into the show. So, go buy a vowel and a couple of tickets, $47-$100.

Venardos Circus DECEMBER 20-JANUARY 1 St. Augustine Amphitheatre Come under the big top for a Broadway-style, animal-free circus featuring dazzling costumes, amazing performers, dramatic lighting and music, all with this year’s theme of “Let’s Build a Dream.”

Look for the red and white-striped tent, , $17-$28.

Maroon 5 DECEMBER 28, 8 PM Daily’s Place Adam Levine and the fellas bring their pop rock sounds to the Jax stage. Listen for radio favorites like “Moves Like Jagger,” “Payphone” and “Sugar,” $215-$800.

DATEBOOK

TaxSlayor Gator Bowl

Elvis Birthday Bash

DECEMBER 29, NOON EverBank Stadium This year’s season-ending college football bowl game features a contest between as-yet-to-be-named teams—one from the Southeastern Conference (maybe Florida?) and an opponent from the Atlantic Coast Conference (perhaps Clemson?). The exact matchup will be announced December 3.

Seats start at $50.

JANUARY 5, 7 PM Florida Theatre The Florida Theatre is forever tied to The King, thanks to a controversial performance that almost landed Elvis in a Jacksonville jail decades ago. The incident only added to the allure and legend of a performer who left us too soon. World-class Elvis impersonators Mike Albert and Scot Bruce along with the Big E Band return to the Florida Theatre to celebrate Elvis’ 84th Birthday Bash, $35-$45.

La Boheme

John Paul White DECEMBER 16, 7 PM

Live from the Waterworks John Paul White grew up in Tennessee, and now lives in Florence, Alabama, not far from famed Muscle Shoals. He has cultivated a music career in Nashville for two decades, first as a songwriter and then as half of The Civil Wars, a duo that won four Grammy Awards. He plays the Oldest City as part of the Live From the Waterworks: A Gamble Rogers Concert Series, $20.

DECEMBER 30, 2 PM AND DECEMBER 31, 7:30 PM Lewis Auditorium, St. Augustine The timeless passion of Puccini’s masterpiece is brought to life by the First Coast Opera. Ring in the New Year while the composer’s evocative music takes you on a journey of love and loss. A pre-show talk takes place one hour prior to each performance, $50-$75.

Million Dollar Quartet

Fortune Feimster

Kansas

DECEMBER 30, 7 PM Florida Theatre You can catch stand-up comedian, writer, and actor, Fortune Feimster, on the radio, on screens both big and small, and touring her stand-up across the nation. In fact, she comes to Jax this month, $30-$165.

JANUARY 12, 8 PM Florida Threatre This “garage band” from Topeka released their debut album in 1974 after being discovered by Wally Gold, and have gone on to sell more than 30 million albums worldwide on their way to this 50th anniversary tour. You know the songs—“Carry on Wayward Son” and “Dust in the Wind,” $45-$125.

JANUARY 11-FEBRUARY 18 Alhambra Theatre & Dining A musical based on a book by Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux, it dramatizes the recording session of December 4, 1956, among early rock and roll/country stars who recorded at Sun Studios in Memphis, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis, tickets start at $58.

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The Triumph of Nature THROUGH MARCH 15, 2024 | Lightner Museum, St. Augustine

Featuring the organic furniture of Louis Majorelle, the alluring posters of Alphonse Mucha, and the luminous work of Louis Comfort Tiffany, the exhibition The Triumph of Nature presents a dazzling selection of ceramics, furniture, jewelry, paintings, posters, prints and sculpture from one of the largest collections of Art Nouveau in the U.S., the Chrysler Museum of Art.

Jacksonville Symphony: Women Rock!

JANUARY 12 & 13, 7:30 PM Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts Carole King, Tina Turner, Janis Joplin and Pat Benatar are just a few of the women who forever transformed Rock and Roll, and the world with their music. In this electrifying performance celebrating female icons, experience empowering and revolutionary hits like “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” and “Hit Me with Your Best Shot,” $29-$84.

The Hip Abduction with special guests Coyote Island and Sierra Lane November 25th at 7:00pm

Ritz Chamber Players

The Mountain Goats December 15th at 7:00pm

Paul Thorn

JANUARY 13, 7:30 PM Terry Concert Hall, Jacksonville University “A Musical Vision for Justice” is the theme for a concert that showcases compositions inspired by significant moments in history and artistic expressions of the pursuit of justice, free.

Florida Forum: Steve Wozniak

January 9th at 7:00pm

Yonder Mountain String Band February 17th at 7:00pm

Tickets on sale now at 904TIX.COM

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JANUARY 17, 7 PM Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts A Silicon Valley icon, technology entrepreneur, and philanthropist for more than 40 years, Steve Wozniak helped shape the computing industry with his design of Apple’s first line of products, the Apple I and II. He speaks as part of the Florida Forum Lecture Series.

Mutts Gone Nuts Unleashed JANUARY 20, 2:30 PM Florida Theatre A Mutts Gone Nuts never-before-seen collaboration is positively UNLEASHED and will be in Jacksonville for one day only!

You won’t want to miss this amazing new production of jaw-dropping stunts and tricks performed by some of the world’s top canine athletes and their world-class trainers, $37-$83.

The Greatest Show on Earth JANUARY 19-21 VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena The lions and elephants are gone, but the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents The Greatest Show On Earth goes on.

The high wire acts, stunt bicycles, trapeze, clowns and circus favorites remain, six shows over three days, $20-$100.

The Princess Bride: An Inconceivable Evening with Cary Elwes JANUARY 26, 7 PM Florida Theatre Join Cary Elwes (Westley) for a behindthe-scenes look at life on and off the set of the classic film, The Princess Bride. After a screening of the iconic movie, Elwes will engage in a moderated discussion revealing never before shared secrets and tales of inconceivable antics, $33-$100. u

PERSPECTIVE

Dawg Poundiing PHOTOS BY BRANDON LAROCHELLE

T

he 2023 Florida Georgia Game kicked off on Saturday, October 28 at 3:30 PM inside EverBank Stadium. As usual, the game was a complete sell out, as were the parking lots surrounding the stadium.

Among the things that make the game unique is the neutral field setting, with one-half of the seats reserved for Dawgs fans (the east side of the stadium) and the other sold to Gators faithful. Parking (which opened at 8 AM) is similarly segregated, with separate lots dedicated to each team’s fans.  The gridiron clash and, in particular, the festivities leading up to game time are known by many as the “World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party,” a nickname the City of Jacksonville and both universities frown upon. The moniker was coined by Florida Times-Union sports editor Bill Kastelz in 1958. The story goes that Kastelz, who was wandering the parking lots before the game, witnessed a thoroughly inebriated fan offer a cocktail to an on-duty Sheriff’s Officer. The officer declined but the nickname succinctly captured the game day atmosphere.  RV City officially opened to fans on Tuesday morning. As it is every year, the lot was sold out well in advance. The line of RVs waiting to enter started forming the weekend before the game. Tailgaters were required to leave by noon on Sunday.  Top-ranked Georgia thumped Florida 43-20, marking their third consecutive win over the Gators, and five of the last six. Georgia quarterback Carson Beck (a Mandarin High alum) threw two touchdown passes in his hometown. “This is a very emotional moment for me,” Beck was quoted after the game. “To go out and play the game like I can, there’s no better feeling than to come out with a win like that.”  The Florida-Georgia football rivalry started in the early 1900s, and has been played every season since 1926. It has been held in Jacksonville since 1933. The rivalry has had its share of star players, from Florida legends Fred Taylor and Tim Tebow to Georgia greats Herschel Walker and Matthew Stafford, not to mention some of the greatest coaches to walk the sideline, including Vince Dooley and Steve Spurrier.  More than just a single football game, the week’s festivities also included a baseball game at 121 Financial Ball Park and post-game concert featuring 1990s pop artists Montell Jordan, Vanilla Ice and Young MC. Inductees into this year Florida-Georgia Hall of Fame ceremony and luncheon were Joe Haden and Earnest Graham from the University of Florida, and Terrence Edwards and former head coach, Mark Richt, from the University of Georgia.  In May, it was announced that the schools had exercised the option to play the game in Jacksonville during the 2024 and 2025 seasons. However, the Jaguars are planning to build a new stadium on the site. Negotiations between the NFL franchise and the City, owner of the facility and property, will determine the proposed stadium’s construction schedule, something that will almost certainly cause the game to be played elsewhere for at least one year. u

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Orsay Shucked Oysters

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shell

yeah!

NORTHEAST FLORIDA IS GOD’S COUNTRY FOR THOSE WHO LIKE TO DINE & BRINE

a

rcheological evidence tells us that shrimp, oysters and other shellfish have been consumed by those residing in Northeast Florida for thousands of years, long before Spanish explorers arrived on our shores, Florida became a state, or Jacksonville was recognized as a city. In fact, a manmade structure on Fort George Island called a “shell ring” dates back to around 3600 B.C. In Arlington, there is an oyster shell midden that stands 25 feet high and covers more than 20 acres. Needless to say, that’s a lot of shellfish eaten throughout the ages right here in the River City. And oysters and other fruits of the sea are still enjoyed across the region. Perhaps best of all, unlike our First Coast forefathers, we don’t need to pull them from the ocean ourselves. A visit to a local seafood market or restaurant makes savoring the season’s bounty much easier. Join us for a sail to and from some of Northeast Florida favorite spots for seafood.

JEFFREY SPEAR CONTRIBUTED TO THIS STORY

Among the most popular locally caught seafood is shrimp, commonly known as Mayport shrimp. With commercial fishing boats operating out of Fernandina, Mayport and St. Augustine, area chefs and home cooks have ready access, and are creating delish dining experiences with these versatile crustaceans. River & Post in Riverside does an excellent job with shrimp.

The Dynamite Shrimp and bouillabaisse, both featuring Northeast Florida shrimp, are standouts. Considering the volume of shrimp brought into port in St. Augustine, it's not surprising that Aunt Kate's on Vilano Beach has become a local culinary

landmark. With so many variations of this highly popular crustacean on the menu, diners can choose from fried shrimp, peel & eat shrimp, coconut shrimp, shrimp & grits—a literal Forest Gump-worthy selection. Also down in St. Augustine, and with additional restaurants peppered across Florida, Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grill knows a thing or two about preparing shrimp.

Among chef Shiloh Schrock’s favorites is the shrimp Creole, with shrimp sautéed in a spicy pepper mix, with jambalaya sauce spooned over rice and then finished with a drizzle of lemon cream. “The flavor really comes from the sauce,” he says. “Cooking it ahead of time allows all the flavors to develop.” Speaking of the flavors of Louisiana, The Fish Company in Atlantic Beach serves a pair of outstanding Cajun-inspired shrimp bowls. The house gumbo is a hearty mix of Andouille sausage, shrimp, tomato and okra in a classic roux, while the Cajun red beans and Mayport shrimp is topped with cheese and green onions.

a

uthor Jonathon Swift said, "He was a bold man that first ate an oyster." While this is no doubt true, oysters have been enjoyed for centuries, commonly served freshly shucked as well as in creatively inspired dishes that are steamed, fried, baked and roasted. For a casual atmosphere, check out The Local in Neptune Beach. The restaurant serves a selection of East Coast oysters, all shucked to order, as well as charbroiled oyster New Orleans. Another popular spot in this beachside neighborhood is Slider's Oyster Bar. Serving freshly shucked oysters JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

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daily, they also prepare oysters Rockefeller, Lucky Gouda Oysters and their undeniably spicy Godzilla Oysters.

Across town, Restaurant Orsay in Avondale serves an impressive selection of West, East and Gulf Coast oysters. As part of their French inspired menu, the roasted oysters, a house favorite, and lobster pot pie are perennial top sellers. For oyster with some south-of-the-border flair, a visit to the recently opened Oaxaca Club at the Beaches is in order. Here, the roasted oysters are prepared with chorizo butter, lemon, cojita and chimichurri. Oaxaca Club is also one of only a handful of local eateries that serves grilled octopus, prepared with pickled onion, black garlic and olive emulsion. One can’t have seafood without salt, and a roundup of local seafood spots would be incomplete without a mention of Salt Life Food Shack. Whether dining in the Amelia Island, Jax Beach or St. Augustine location, the raw bar always pleases. The chargrilled oysters swimming in garlic butter and topped with Parmesan cheese is a Salt Life classic. But don’t overlook the freshly shucked oysters topped with creamy crab and spinach sauce, garlic and Parmesan cheese, sprinkled with bread crumbs and baked to a golden brown.

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PHOTO BY JENSEN HANDE

a

lthough shellfish is undeniably popular, you won't want to miss out on the region’s bounty of fresh fish. Along with seasonal harvests, locally caught vermillion snapper, grouper, flounder and triggerfish are menu favorites. With the Intracoastal Waterway in its back yard, seafood comes naturally to the Palm Valley Fish Camp. Among their most sought-after dishes are the whole fried market fish and the iron skillet fried Brook Trout. Another popular destination for fresh fish in Ponte Vedra is Aqua Grill,

THIS PAGE left: Aqua Grill’s Vidalia-crusted fresh catch below: Cap’s on the Water bottom left: Taverna Oceana’s Seafood Tower OPPOSITE PAGE top: Sliders Oyster Bar middle: The Fish Company bottom: Palm Valley Fish Camp

self described as a "boat to table" restaurant. Menu standouts include the Vidaliacrusted fresh catch, Bang Bang cod and blackened local snapper. The sautéed Price Edward Island mussels, drenched in garlic, with basil, heirloom tomatoes and lemon butter sauce is a must-try appetizer. One of the hottest new seafood destinations in Jacksonville is Taverna Oceana in San Marco. With so much to choose from, there is constant praise for chef Sam Efron’s misoglazed Chilean sea bass. Other fish dishes tend to be offered as daily specials based on what's fresh, just off the boat. Another upscale option just a short drive from San Marco Square is City Grille & Raw Bar. As the name implies, raw bar items play leading roles. “Diver scallops and royal red shrimp are two of City Grille’s favorite shellfish dishes,” says executive chef Kevin Gaston. “Fresh, cold water, environmentally harvested Cape Cod U10 scallops are great for getting a nice caramelized sear while cooking. And royal reds are tender, sweet and very versatile in that they are equally tasty when sauteed, grilled or poached.”

For special occasions, or just because every day can be special, house specialties such as the chilled seafood towers and platters are the stuff of seafood dreams. Maine lobster tails, jumbo shrimp, Jonah crab claws, oysters with red wine vinegar mignonette— go ahead and treat yourself.

w

ith more than 100 miles of shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean, St. Johns River and Intracoastal Waterway, there are plenty of First Coast seafood joints where one can enjoy a meal with a view. For example, located near the

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Life of the Party The Casa Monica Resort & Spa in St. Augustine recently relaunched its signature restaurant, Cordova • A Coastal Chophouse & Bar. Executive chef Robert DeGrassi’s menu is inspired by the cuisine and culture of southern Spain. We asked DeGrassi for his thoughts on preparing the ideal meal for friends and family during the holiday season. Here’s some of what he suggested.

top: Salt Life Food Shack left: River & Post’s Bouillabaisse right: City Grille & Raw Bar

mouth of the St. Johns at Mayport, Singleton's Seafood Shack is a ramshackle structure that appears as if it’s about to spill into the river. With a large waterfront deck, diners are treated to no-frill meals while soaking in the downscale atmosphere that has made Singleton’s a seafood landmark for decades.

In Ponte Vedra, Barbara Jean's offers a bucolic view of the water and natural surroundings. Specializing in Southern fare, the Coastal Platter featuring crab, shrimp and fish is always a good choice. So is the catch of the day, prepared grilled, blackened or fried. Traveling south toward St. Augustine, boaters and drivers will find Cap's on the Water. The Sunset Oyster Bar is a favorite among locals, offering some of the best views around. Of course, there's also an abundance of seafood including Florida gumbo, jambalaya and vanilla grouper served with a vanilla rum sauce. When the Intracoastal Waterway finally meets the Salt Run and joins with the Atlantic, you'll find the Conch House Marina Resort, an Oldest City original where diners flock to the grass-covered tiki huts perched out over the water. Ask about their fresh catch as well as the Minorcan catch with goat cheese and Datil pepper jelly. For 60 years, hungry customers have been driving and boating to Whitey’s Fish Camp, a true Clay County and Doctors Lake dining institution. The restaurant spills outside to a large patio, sandy raw bar, deck and docks overlooking tiny Swimming Pen Creek. The weekend people-watching is top shelf and Whitey’s extensive menu of fish, oysters, calamari, fish, shrimp, crab and more is pages long.

During the week, arrive hungry for the all-you-can-eat shrimp boil. u

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“Right now, with any type of Bluepoint oyster you’re going to be a winner, especially going into the colder months. Oysters with nice Gremolada on top would be delicious. I like to grill my oysters. So, grill the oysters with a Gremolada, hit it with some garlic butter and some Parmesan cheese, and then when it’s on the grill, drizzle some butter on top of it so you engulf the oyster in flames to give that charred essence of the grill,” DeGrassi says.

For a main course, he recommends either a filet or a Spinellicut steak, paired with a beautifully seared scallop. Next, he would prepare a bordelaise sauce with some parsnip purée, a couple baby roasted beets, baby roasted turnips, some Thumbelina carrots and micro greens for a nice pop of color. ”For dessert, something super ‘warm’ feeling,” he continues.

“I really love doing a take on a cappuccino. How about a coffee-style mousse cake with cinnamon whipped cream, a little bit of gold dust, and a beautiful espresso-style white chocolate ganache? That way, you’re getting all the aspects of a deconstructed cappuccino.”

Sounds wonderful, chef. What time should we plan to arrive? u

Southern

charm i

RESTAURATEUR, CHEF AND AUTHOR KENNY GILBERT SHARES SOME OF THE SECRETS TO PREPARING THE PERFECT SEAFOOD BOIL

n Jacksonville, there are little garlic crab spots throughout the city that are known for seafood boils. In the Black community, it is almost like a rite of passage to find the place that has the right amounts of garlic and butter to your liking.

They are usually little holes in the wall, each with their own style of seafood boil.

tion. I remember crabbing with my grandmother who lived in St. Augustine. She would use spoiled chicken legs as bait and she would use a cut milk jug on a rope, where a crab could crawl in but wouldn’t be able to get out, or we would use just a line on a stick that we would drop down into the water and pull up the crabs.

My wife Anna is native to Springfield and seafood boils were a part of her food culture growing up. She is a professional when it comes to eating seafood—no crab or seafood crackers needed, she digs in all hands and teeth. When we first started dating, we hosted a get together at her apartment. It was my first time to meet many of her friends and family. I made a seafood boil that was spicy and flavorful.

We had a great time playing cards, drinking and laughing all night. Whenever I need to get the final blessing on a boil, just like my Dad had my Mom give the final say on his BBQ, Anna provides the blessing on the boils.

Every coastal community in the world has some sort of seafood boil-like dish made from what is available in that region. In America, from Baltimore to New Orleans different communities have variations of seafood boil depending on what is plentiful.

In Baltimore, blue crabs are featured and in New Orleans its crawfish. If you live near the ocean, there are two things you can bank on always having on hand—seafood and water.

Whether it’s with a six pack of cold beer or a chilled bottle of white wine, a steaming pot of well-seasoned seafood is a crowd pleaser no matter anywhere you live.

Both garlic crabs and Low Country seafood boil have their roots in Gullah Geechee culture. They are the descendants of enslaved West Africans that lived in the coastal Southeast of America. Recipes are often passed down from generation to genera-

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Featured at right is a seafood boil recipe pulled from Gilbert’s first cookbook Southern Cooking, Global Flavors (Rizzoli New York, $24). Through more than 100 recipes, as well as tips and techniques in the restaurateur’s own words, the book connects readers to the origins of classic dishes of the American South. u

Sauce Boss Shiloh Schrock is the corporate chef for the homegrown string of Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille restaurants.

If it’s on the menu at one of the five Florida Harry’s, you can bet Schrock has cooked it, tasted it and given it his stamp of approval many times over. A 25-year veteran of the culinary industry, he earned his culinary chops at the Art Institute in Denver and in kitchens across the country.

His expertise lies in creating scratchmade dishes, with a particular passion for Creole-style seafood and Mexican-Asian fusion cuisine. Among his favorites on Harry’s menu are the crawfish and shrimp etouffees. His ettouffee starts with a rich and spicy seafood broth thickened with roux

Chef Kenny’s Classic Southern Seafood Boil Cooking seafood boil for six people, you want a good tray of seafood per person. Two crabs, six crawfish, plus sausage, potatoes, an ear of corn and a few boiled eggs is enough for each person. It takes a stock pot to make, with each element adding its flavor to the broth in stages. I start with the potatoes to make sure they become tender, then the sausage so it adds its flavor, then the corn, crabs and finally shrimp and crawfish. I recommend investing in a big seafood stock pot if you want to cook a boil for a large party. There is nothing like a big spread of newspaper piled high with piping hot Low Country boil as a dinner party centerpiece. Makes six servings.

INGREDIENTS: For the Boil Broth 1 ½ gallons water 2 pints lager beer 2 cups orange juice 2 cups lemon juice 2 cups lime juice 2 cups ground fresh garlic (place 1 ½ cups of garlic into a blender with ½ cup of water and puree) 2 cups ground Spanish onions (place 1 ½ cups of onion into a blender with ½ cup of water and puree) 1 cup Cajun spice ½ cup poultry seasoning 1 cup shrimp base, Knorr Granulated Bouillon Shrimp 2 cups light soy sauce ½ cup fish sauce For the Finishing Butter 1 lb salted butter ¼ cup lemon Juice ¼ cup lime juice ¼ cup light soy sauce ¼ cup garlic cloves ¼ cup yellow or white onions, medium diced ¼ cup Cajun spice blend 2 Tbsp poultry seasoning ¼ tsp xanthan gum powder For the Boil 6 ears of corn on the cobb 12 red bliss potatoes 6 andouille sausage links 12 large eggs 36 large whole fresh shrimp, head on 36 whole crawfish 6 clusters Dungeness crab

and full of the holy trinity (onions, celery and peppers), hot sauce and Cajun spices. “Keep the flavors true to the region you want flavors from, using the holy trinity and Creole flavored hot sauces and spices make this dish shine,” he says. u

DIRECTIONS: Make the Boil Broth 1. Place all the ingredients for the boil broth into a large pot and bring to a boil on high heat.

Make the Finishing Butter 1. Place all the ingredients for the finishing butter into a pot and heat on medium. Cook for 10 minutes, until butter is melted.

2. Puree with a hand blender in the pot until smooth and emulsified.

3. Reserve warm.

Make the Boil 1. Bring the Boil broth to a simmer on medium heat.

2. Add the new potatoes and cook for 20 minutes.

3. Add the corn and sausage and cook for 10 minutes.

4. Gently place the eggs into the boil and cook for 10 minutes.

5. Remove the ingredients and place into containers and reserve warm.

6. Bring the Boil broth to a boil on medium heat.

7. Add the crabs and cook for 15 minutes.

8. Add the crawfish and shrimp and cook for 8 minutes.

9. Remove and place into containers and reserve warm.

The Build 1. Cover a table with newspaper or banana leaves.

2. Arrange the corn, sausage, potatoes and eggs on the paper, then add the seafood.

2. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Place ramekins of finishing butter around around the table.

3. Reserve warm.

4. Finish with a sprinkle of Cajun spice. u

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Tips for Buying and Storing Mussels CHEF ALTERS OFFERS THESE DO’S AND DON’TS WHEN COOKING MUSSELS.

F Check the harvest date, or ask the fish monger for the harvest date. Mussels are freshest within a week of harvest.

Mussels Beach RECIPE BY CHEF SCOTT ALTERS, RUE SAINT-MARC

La Mouclade is a wonderful dish of mussels that traces its origin to the coastal city of La Rochelle, in the southwestern corner of France. It is known for its delicious sauce of cream, saffron and curry that is poured over the mussels just before they are served. At Rue Saint-Marc, chef Scott Alters uses La Mouclade as inspiration for many seafood dishes containing wonderful mussels shipped in from Bang’s Island, Maine. The traditional version of the dish is quick to prepare at home and a beautiful way to enjoy fresh mussels with friends and family. To do so, follow chef Alter’s instructions here: INGREDIENTS: 4 lbs. of cleaned mussels ½ C dry white wine 2 Tbsp butter 1 C sliced shallot, divided in two parts 2 cloves of garlic, sliced 1 tsp curry powder 1 pinch of saffron (soaked in 2 Tbsp of hot water for 15 minutes) 2 Tbsp of brandy 1 C of heavy cream 1/3 C of chopped parsley Salt to taste DIRECTIONS: 1. In a wide pan with a lid, sweat half of the shallots and the garlic in 1 Tbsp of butter. Add the white wine and the mussels. Increase the heat and cover the pan with the lid. Cook for roughly

F Mussels are alive. Only purchase and cook ones that are fully closed.

F Living mussels may slightly open while being stored.

Tap them on the table on their hinge, and if they close, then they are still alive.

4 minutes or until the mussels have opened. Discard any mussels that haven’t opened. Strain the mussels in a colander and reserve the cooking liquid.

2. In a separate pot, sweat the other half of the shallots in the remaining butter. Add the curry powder and lightly toast. Add the brandy and cook off the alcohol. Use caution as it may ignite. Add the cream, saffron in water, and half of the reserved mussel cooking liquid. Reduce until the sauce thickens and can coat the back of a spoon. Season with salt.

3. Remove the top shell from the mussels and arrange the bottom shell containing the mussels on a platter. Pour the curry cream over the mussels and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

4. Serve with plenty of bread to soak up the delicious sauce and enjoy! u

For those who enjoy preparing delicious shellfish at home, it’s important to know where to find the absolute best in terms of local and fresh-caught seafood.

For residents in Mandarin, Orange Park and St. Augustine, Fisherman’s Dock Seafood Market has retail locations in your neighborhood. For those living closer to the beach, Safe Harbor Market in Mayport is the place to go. Both operators maintain their own commercial fishing fleet and sell just-off-the-boat seafood in their retail stores as well as to some of the best chefs and restaurateurs around town. Unless you catch it yourself, you won’t find seafood fresher or better tasting than this.

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F Smell the mussels. They should smell like the sea.

Off-putting odors indicate dead, spoiled mussels.

F Mussels grow in very cold water. Store them on ice until you are ready to cook.

Ideally store them in a perforated pan or colander set over a deeper pan or bowl, and then cover the mussels with ice. The pan or bowl underneath is meant to catch the water from the melting ice.

F Most cultivated mussels are grown attached to ropes suspended from the water’s surface. Therefore, they do not need to be purged before cooking. A quick rinse with cold water is sufficient. If you do purge your mussels, use salted water at 1/3 cup of salt dissolved into one gallon of water.

This works for clams as well.

F Most mussels have a “beard” hanging out of the shell. This is how the mussel attaches itself to the rope that it is grown on. Pull this off of the mussels shortly before cooking them F Storing mussels submerged in fresh water will kill them. They are salt water animals.

F After cooking mussels, discard any that haven’t opened. u

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2024

NOMINAT E YOUR BUSINESS TODAY!

JACKSONVILLE BUSINESSES THAT PRIORITIZE CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY For more than a decade Jacksonville Magazine has made it a point to recognize the local companies doing extraordinary work in the community through our Companies With Heart honors and feature article. We continue that effort in 2024, with a focus on four broad categories—Environmental Efforts; Philanthropy; Ethical Labor Practices; Volunteering.

your employees, clients, corporate partners and consumers know what you are doing to be socially responsible.

If your company has a robust strategy for sustainable growth and community impact, don't let it be a secret. Let

Jacksonville Magazine, 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL 32204.

If you would like to nominate your business, please complete the form below and submit it to us by FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1. Additional materials (photos, articles, company newsletters, etc.) can be sent via mail to:

2024 NOMINATION FORM | WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR: Nominated Business _________________________________________________________________________________ Contact Person ____________________________________________________________________________________ Address _____________________________________________________________________________________________ City ________________________________________________ State ________________ Zip Code. _________________ Telephone ___________________________________________ Fax ____________________________________________ Email _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Website / Social Media Accounts ________________________________________________________________________ Number of employees in Jacksonville / All Locations ______________________________________________________ How does your organization measure success as it relates to community involvement?

Below are this year's four categories of focus for Companies With Heart.

Please provide details and examples for each area, where applicable.

Environmental Efforts ♥ Philanthropy ♥ Ethical Labor Practices ♥ Volunteering NOTE: This form may be completed online at JacksonvilleMag.com Entries will be evaluated by an impartial committee, and the year's honorees will be featured in the January/February 2024 edition of Jacksonville Magazine and invited to attend an awards luncheon. Questions regarding Companies With Heart and opportunities for becoming an event sponsor should be directed to the attention of Jessica Lindsay (904) 910-0823.

Kindred s t i r i Sp

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ine St. August er photograph he captures t eople culture, p es and memori the of one of ost nation’s m ly historical t significan ods. neighborho

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aying homage to a portion of St. Augustine most tourists overlook, photographer Lenny Foster calls attention to the residents, architecture and notable events that transpired along its narrow streets. The neighborhood of Lincolnville was founded in 1866 by formerly enslaved people, and through the ensuing decades the community witnessed numerous moments that helped shape the city and the country, particularly during the turbulent 1960s. Some of those moments, its people and the character of the community are the subject of In the Spirit of Lincolnville, a collection of photographs on display at St. Augustine’s Crisp-Ellert Art Museum.

“I started creating the Lincolnville images in 2018 after I moved to a little apartment on MLK Jr. Avenue. In the evenings I would cruise around on my bike to get familiar with the community. It was then that I noticed the freedom trail markers in front of various homes and historical buildings,” says Foster.

“I also went to a couple of events at the Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center, where I truly started learning the African American and Civil Rights history of St Augustine. I was fascinated by this history that was totally unknown to me. I began “cruising with intent” looking to create an image at a number of these locations.”

“I have known of Lenny’s work since he moved here several years ago and opened his gallery (Gallery 144) up the street from CEAM,” says Julie Dickover, director of the Crisp-Ellert Art Museum and curator of Flagler College’s Collections. “I asked him to participate in our artist residency program last spring to help support some of his ongoing projects related to Lincolnville, and then we decided to exhibit photographs from those three series.”

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“In my Where We Stand series, I place shoes, representing historical figures in locations where events took place and then write a narrative to explain the significance. With the Where Dreams Become Memories (nighttime photos) I create images of businesses, churches, homes and former schools to, in some way, try to honor the spirit and memory of what has taken place in those structures,” Foster explains.

“The Porch Portrait series, obviously includes portraits of folks who have been in the community since the Sixties. With the conversations on their porches I get a sense of what life in the community was like then and how it feels to them now.”

“In my Where We Stand series, I place shoes, representing historical figures in locations where events took place and then write a narrative to explain the significance.”

“First and foremost,” Dickover adds, “Lenny is a wonderful photographer, and has a real gift at capturing his subjects, whether living or not. But Lenny’s work is important in that he not only brings more attention to the rich Black history of St. Augustine–from the early years of the Spanish colonial period through the many events that occurred here during the Civil Rights era—but also to the Black community who still lives and thrives in Lincolnville today, despite the neighborhood’s rapid gentrification. It’s a love letter to Lincolnville; his work is really special.”

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Special it may be. But don’t expect Foster to put down his camera any time soon. “For me, there is more to create, so these 20 images are merely the beginning,” he says. “Lincolnville, as well as many other historic Black communities through the state and country are changing and disappearing, so I feel it’s important for me to do what I can to help preserve the history, beauty and legacy of a community that was established to help the formerly enslaved get a new start in life and one that played a vital role in the Civil Rights movement.”

“The Porch Portait series, obviously includes portaits of folks who have been in the community since the Sixties.”

Foster has owned and operated galleries in Taos, New Mexico and St. Augustine since 1998. He has exhibited at venues across the county, including the Harwood Museum of Art and the Albuquerque Museum. In the Spirit of Lincolnville is on display through December 2 at the CrispEllert Art Museum at Flagler College, 48 Sevilla Street, in downtown St. Augustine. Museum hours are Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 4 PM, and Saturday, noon to 4 PM. u

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SEASON’S GREETINGS Having trouble warming up to the holiday season this year? Not any more. Here, we present a collection of a dozen special seasonal events that would warm the heart of even the Grinchiest of Northeast Floridians.

From concerts and movies to light shows and gala parties, now is the moment to embrace this most wonderful time of year.

november 24-december 29

The Christmas season and glowing lights pair together like stockings and fireplaces. In Jax, among the top annual displays of things that glow and twinkle is Dazzling Nights, taking place November 24 through December 29 at the Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens in Arlington. The nature preserve is beautiful during the day but come nightfall it really shines. About a million lights illuminate the nature trails, music fills the trees, there’s a candy cane corridor and a giant shimmering tree perfect for family photos. Seasonal eats and drinks available, too. Don’t leave before stepping inside the 40-foot snow globe. Tickets are $19 to $22, kids under 3 are free.

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november 30

Over two decades ago, jazz saxophonist Dave Koz launched his first-ever Christmas tour, hitting the road to play concert venues across the country.

Since then, “Santa Koz,” as he’s become known, has returned to Northeast Florida on multiple occasions to play with his all-star band of guest performers. This year’s Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour features vocalists Jonathan Butler and Rebecca Jade, saxophonist Marcus Anderson, and Justin Lee Schultz on keyboards.

Together, the five musicians will perform fresh renditions of Christmas classics, as well as a Chanukah medley and hits from their respective catalogs. Tickets range from $45 to $88; meet and greet packages available.

december 15

“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” Very wise words from Buddy the Elf. On Friday, December 15, the beloved film Elf, starring Will Ferrell, James Caan and Ed Asner, is screened at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. In addition to the movie, guests can dive into the evening with a special visit from Santa. “I know him!”

Also, there will be complimentary hot cocoa and popcorn and free tee shirts for the first 300 kids who say “hi” to St. Nick. Doors open at 5:30 PM, the film gets rolling at 7 PM. It’s all free, so don’t be a cotton-headed ninny muggins! Join in the fun.

december 1-3

The vendors at Vintage Market Days aim to make you holiday season shopping easy, as more than 120 makers, pickers and crafters showcase their wares during a three-day open air market December 1-3 at the Clay County Fairgrounds in Green Cove Springs. From vintage-inspired furniture and home decor to boutique clothing, handmade jewelry and art, make a date for a weekend of finds, food and fun. There will be a DJ to help set the mood and a convoy of food trucks.

“Our vendors are an eclectic mix of local and out-of-state small businesses that produce or discover unique pieces,” says Market owner Tonya Ross. “I’m always inspired by what they come up with.”

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november 18

For 30 years, St. Augustine has marked the Saturday before Thanksgiving with the official flipping of a switch that lights up the waterfront and Downtown. During the annual Nights of Lights, millions of twinkling white lights come to life and highlight the historic architecture of the nation’s oldest city. The festival has roots in the Spanish tradition of placing lit white candles in the windows of homes for the Christmas season.

The six-week display kicks off November 18 and from sidewalk to rooftop, if a light, ribbon or garland can be hung from it, it probably is. With the festival spirit encompassing more than 20 blocks of the historic district, visitors can soak up the glow from lights adorning St. Augustine’s museums, restaurants, inns, carriages, trees, boats and more. There isn’t a bad view to be found. The two top selfie spots are the decorated tree in the middle of the Plaza de la Constitution and the mid-point of the Bridge of Lions, which offers an expansive view of the lights.

december 2-january 2

While downtown St. Augustine gets top billing with its holiday celebrations, its smaller neighbor to the northeast, Vilano Beach, dives into the season with its Vilano Holiday Village on weekends December 2 through January 2. The centerpiece of the celebrations will be an 18-foot-tall Christmas tree. Visitors are invited to get their glow on every Saturday with holiday happenings, such as a tree lighting ceremony (December 2), visits from Mr. and Mrs. Claus, live music and more. On December 9, Elf on the Shelf author Carol Aebersold will make an appearance and read from her book and be available for a book signing. All are welcome to bring a copy of the book or purchase one at the Metalartz Gallery. The Cirque Adventure’s high-flying Elf Circus aerial and acrobatic show stages three, 30-minute performances on December 23.

december 2 & 3

Think of it as three shows in one. The Jacksonville Christmas Spectacular is a collection of three humorous and heartwarming stories by producer Jason Woods.

More than 20 characters are featured in the family friendly stage production.

The opening performance is emceed by Jax Mayor Donna Deegan and the event includes a musical guest, the Jacksonville Jaguars D-Line!. Four shows December 2 and 3, 2 PM and 7:30 PM, at the Ritz Theatre and Museum, $75-$125

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DECEMBER 2nd, 9th, 16th, and 23rd 1:00pm - 4:00pm Children 12 and under will receive a teddy bear with reservation; additional teddy bears are available for purchase

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december 7-10

Northeast Florida and Charles Dickens may seem like an unusual combination. And, for much of the year, it’s true. But come early December, leave your “Bah Humbugs” at home as Amelia Island embraces the nostalgia and spirit of A Christmas Carol to host Dickens on Centre, a four-day festival packed with a range of activities, from photos with Santa and a pet parade to a one-mile fun run on the beach and restaurants serving glasses of holiday cheer. The immersive Victorian holiday experience, December 7-10, features live entertainment, vendor booths decked with holiday gifts and more in the heart of Fernandina Beach. Dickens After Dark, December 9, is an exclusive costume party complete with stilt walkers, jugglers and a live fire and ice show. The evenings of December 8-10, crowds will want to turn their eyes to the skies over the harbor for a lighted, 3D drone show.

november 22-january 12

The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is an historic landmark and attraction that draws visitors year round. During winter, the candy-striped beacon hosts Lighthouse Illuminations: Tides, Tidings and Trees November 22-January 12. The property is a forest of more than 20 trees, each decorated with a distinct theme. The Keeper’s house and grounds are illuminated by lights and garlands. For those up for the climb, the view from the top of the tower is magical, especially at night. Kids must be 44 inches tall to climb the tower. Advanced reservations are recommended.

Tickets are $23-$25.

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december 8, 9, 10, & 15-17

The Sugar Plum Fairy, Clara, the Mouse King and all the favorite Nutcracker characters return to several Northeast Florida stages this holiday season. First to take the stage is the 32nd annual Community Nutcracker ($36-$64) December 8 and 9 at the Florida Theatre. In the Oldest City, the Saint Augustine Ballet (pictured) presents its 15th annual performances, featuring professional ballet dancers and dance students from the community, December 15-17 inside Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College ($35-$50). “For the 15th anniversary, we have added more professional ballet dancers and arts performers to the show, with some special surprises for the audience,” says Luis Abella, executive director of Saint Augustine Ballet. In Jax, the First Coast Nutcracker, highlighted by musicians of the Jacksonville Symphony, is staged four times December 15-17 at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts. And the Florida Ballet presents two performances—“Nutcracker in a Nutshell,” an abbreviated show designed for children, the afternoon of December 9, noon, and the complete ballet December 10, 4:30 PM, at the Thrasher Horner Center in Orange Park.

december 12

A Charlie Brown Christmas, the Peabody awardwinning story by Charles M. Schulz, has warmed the hearts of millions of fans since it first aired on television more than 50 years ago. And its message about the true meaning of the season still rings true. Now, the classic animated TV special is presented as a faithful stage adaptation, meaning the whole family can tag along with Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the Peanuts gang as they rehearse for their Christmas program and decorate the little green tree that needs a home. After the final bow, the show crescendos into a celebration of song as the audience is invited to join the characters in singing traditional Christmas songs and carols. The curtain rises December 12, 7 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $30-$50.

december 18

On December 18, It’s A Wonderful Life, the beloved American holiday classic, is presented live on stage as a 1940s radio broadcast. Apex Theatre Studio and an ensemble cast brings to life a few dozen characters—Mr. Potter, Clarence Oddbody, Sam Wainwright, Violet Bick and others—to tell the timeless story of idealistic George Bailey as he considers ending his life one fateful night. “The live radio format and 1940s setting will transport the audience back to another time and place,” says Apex Studio director Ian Mairs. “The play’s message has resonated for over 75 years because it’s timeless.” Tune in December 18, 7:30 PM, at the Backyard Stage at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre.

General admission seating is $25. u

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—JACKSONVILLE'S 2023—

Top Dentists Meet Northeast Florida’s leading dental practitioners as named by their peers in an annual survey

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ntroducing the First Coast premier dental professionals, a company of dentists who receive top marks for skill and knowledge from their local peers.

Few things are more painful or debilitating than a toothache. Whatever the cause—a cavity, impacted wisdom, accidental break or chip—the resulting pain and discomfort can literally knock you off your feet. Fortunately, in Northeast Florida there is a small army of dedicated dental professionals who can alleviate the pain, straighten a crooked smile and bring enjoyment back to eating all the foods you love.

A national peer-review survey conducted annually by TopDentists aims to name and recognize the leading practitioners across the country. For more than a decade, Jacksonville Magazine has partnered with TopDentists to share the list of dentists named best by the people who know them best—Jacksonville dentists. This list is presented here, as are more than a dozen profiles of local dentists who are eager to earn your trust and business. We think it’s something to smile about.

Bright Ideas Teeth whitening procedures have come a long way in recent years. However, there is more than one path to a brighter smile.

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or some time, there has been consistent consumer demand for whiter, brighter teeth and an attractive smile.

Professionally administered (in-office) tooth whitening, also known as dental bleaching, remains a popular esthetic procedure and can be performed using a wide range of techniques and application protocols. Another common approach is at-home whitening with custom-fitted trays, which patients use to apply professional-strength bleaching gel—for use at night or during the day. Numerous over-the-counter whitening products (e.g., strips, gels, rinses, chewing gums, or painton films) are also widely available for self-application at home.

Tooth and dental discoloration are terms used to describe any change in the color or translucency of a tooth, as well as discoloration in multiple teeth or the entire dentition. Tooth discolorations are typically classified as extrinsic, intrinsic, or a combination of both types.

Extrinsic stains commonly result from an accumulation of colored compounds on enamel. Extrinsic discoloration is primarily associated with environmental factors or individual behaviors, such as tobacco use, exposure to metal salts (iron or copper, for example), or the consumption of highly pigmented foods (dark fruits) or beverages (red wine, coffee, etc.).

Extrinsic tooth stains vary widely in color and severity, and can be exacerbated by lifestyle habits such as smoking or chewing tobacco, poor oral hygiene, or frequent consumption of pigmented food or beverages. A wide range of extrinsic stains can be effectively reduced with mechanical interventions such as brushing with a whitening toothpaste or professional prophylaxis. Some store-bought whitening products like toothpastes and chewing gums are effective primarily in removing extrinsic surface stains on enamel, and will not have a significant impact on intrinsic stains or the intrinsic color of the tooth.

Intrinsic stains occur inside the tooth—within the enamel or the underlying dentin—and can arise due to systemic causes such as genetic disorders (dentinogenesis imperfecta, amelogenesis imperfecta among others) or local factors during tooth development or after eruption. Aging is another common etiology of intrinsic discoloration. With increasing age, enamel becomes more translucent and thinner, which allows the yellower dentin to show through and the overall tooth color may darken. Other causes of intrinsic discoloration include certain antibiotic use in childhood such as tetracycline, amalgam restorations, and pulpal hemorrhage, decomposition or necrosis. Intrinsic discoloration can also occur with prolonged use of antiseptic mouthrinse.

Whitening Agents Reducing intrinsic stains involves a chemical reaction that changes the color of the tooth. The most common ingredients used in bleaching are carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide, which are used at different concentrations depending on the products or regimens used The bleaching action in chemically induced whitening is due primarily to the effects of carbamide peroxide, which releases about one-third of its content as hydrogen peroxide, a strong oxidizing agent. Hydrogen peroxide diffuses easily through interprismatic spaces in the enamel, allowing for passage from enamel and dentin to pulp within 15 minutes of exposure. The bleaching process is generally believed to occur when reactive oxygen molecules, generated from hydrogen peroxide, interact with organic chromophores within enamel and dentin through a chemical oxidation process, which is influenced by various environmental factors including temperature and light.

The extent of whitening attained through bleaching may be influenced by the type of intrinsic stain being addressed. For example, brown stains due to fluorosis or tetracycline may be more responsive to bleaching than white stains associated with fluorosis or orthodontic treatment, which may appear less noticeable as the background of the tooth lightens. The type of stain also can affect the length of and/or number of treatments required to arrive as close as possible to the desired result. For example, although stains due to tetracycline may be diminished, treatment can require three to four months of nightly treatment (on average). u Source: American Dental Association

Editor’s Note: Practice names and addresses are included for Jacksonville Magazine clients.

General Dentistry

Nicholas P. Comerford

Donald J. Alexander Sean M. Altenbach Kathryn A. Antony Gregory A. Archambault Aruna Avanti Leydi Barros-Rockafellow Joseph M. Barton Alexander Beaver III Jeffrey S. Bilotti Owen J. Boales

ASAP TOTAL DENTAL CARE

Dayn C. Boitet

DOCTORS LAKE FAMILY DENTAL

1665 Eagle Harbor Pkwy.

Fleming Island

Yevah Cueto

6960 Bonneval Rd., Suite 201 Jacksonville

Roy F. David Tracey B. David Kristen De Bonis Shelby Denmam

CAVEN DENTAL GROUP

8930 RG Skinner Pkwy.

Jacksonville

Robin F. Edwards Aaron C. Evens Felipe M. Falcao Ian M. Farnham

Christine F. Bojaxhi Amy J. Bouvier Poblenz Solomon G. Brotman

11528 San Jose Blvd.

Jacksonville

Richard C. Caven

Jacquelene G. Farnham

8930 RG Skinner Pkwy.

Jacksonville

11528 San Jose Blvd.

Jacksonville

Michele L. Cavendish

Thomas R. Farrell IV Dina L. Fetner Howard A. Fetner Carla Field Brian E. Floro

CAVEN DENTAL GROUP

Christina Choe

HARBOUR DENTAL CARE

12345 Atlantic Blvd., Suite 6 Jacksonville

FARNHAM DENTISTRY

FARNHAM DENTISTRY

Glenn W. Forhan Ryan Garski Jeffrey Gully Brian Haeussner Samir N. Hanania John J. Harrington C. J. Henley

3675 Hendricks Ave. Jacksonville

Stephanie L. Kinsey Kevin Lucas Kirk Betty D. Klement Joseph Lee Young H. Lee Leah K. Lovett

ISLAND GROVE DENTAL

96425 Pine Grove Rd. Fernandina Beach RIVER CITY DENTAL

510 Airport Center Dr., Suite 101 Jacksonville

Andrew W. Maples

PONTE VEDRA PREMIER DENTAL

100 Professional Dr. Ponte Vedra Beach

Brian W. Maples

PONTE VEDRA PREMIER DENTAL

100 Professional Dr. Ponte Vedra Beach

Selena L. Marchan Jose M. Martinez

MARTINEZ DENTAL SOLUTIONS

6817 Southpoint Pkwy., Suite 302 Jacksonville

Blanca M. Martinez-Hoppe

HODGES FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

4776 Hodges Blvd., Suite 103 Jacksonville

Alicia Matayoshi Ryan McAlpin James J. McCall Amy F. McMahan Cameron McMillin Jillian K. Medure Hanna D. Mularkey Richard C. Mullens Kevin L. Neal

PONTE VEDRA PREMIER DENTAL

100 Professional Dr. Ponte Vedra Beach

James Nguyen Minh Nguyen Melissa Nixon Jason S. Olitsky Sid Parker

Gene R. Patch Michael E. Patch Jayshree A. Patel Tarak Patel Viral Patel Jeffrey Pennington Kristan D. Podvia Charles A. Poblenz Kristan D. Podvia Jeffrey S. Prieto Eugene Rhee Franklin M. Rios Harris L. Rittenberg Ronald K. Roessler Obdulia D. Rondon Richard J. Salko Remedios M. Santos Douglas K. Scales Paul Schloth

HIDDEN HILLS FAMILY DENTISTRY

12086 Fort Caroline Rd., Suite 105 Jacksonville

James L. Schumacher Brent D. Sears Michael J. Shaeffer William P. Shaeffer Willette L. Shaeffer-Crabtree

About the list This list is excerpted from the 2023 topDentists™ list, a database which includes listings for more than 180 dentists and specialists in the Greater Jacksonville Metropolitan area. The Jacksonville area list is based on thousands of detailed evaluations of dentists and professionals by their peers. The complete database is available at www.usatopdentists.com. For more information call 706364-0853; write PO Box 970, Augusta, GA 30903; email help@ usatopdentists.com or visit www.usatopdentists.com.

SELECTION PROCESS “If you had a patient in need of a dentist, which dentist would you refer them to?” This is the question we’ve asked thousands of dentists to help us determine who the topDentists should be.

Dentists and specialists are asked to take into consideration years of experience, continuing education, manner with patients, use of new techniques and technologies and of course physical results.

The nomination pool of dentists consists of dentists listed online with the American Dental Association, as well as dentists listed online with their local dental societies, thus allowing virtually every dentist the opportunity to participate. Dentists are also given the opportunity to nominate other dentists that they feel should be included in our list. Respondents are asked to put aside any personal bias or political motivations and to use only their knowledge of their peer’s work when evaluating the other nominees.

Voters are asked to individually evaluate the practitioners on their ballot whose work they are familiar with. Once the balloting is completed, the scores are compiled and then averaged. The numerical average required for inclusion varies depending on the average for all the nominees within the specialty and the geographic area. Borderline cases are given careful consideration by the editors. Voting characteristics and comments are taken into consideration while making decisions. Past awards a dentist has received as well as status in various dental academies can play a factor in our decision.

Once the decisions have been finalized, the included dentists are checked against state dental boards for disciplinary actions to make sure they have an active license and are in good standing with the board. Then letters of congratulations are sent to all the listed dentists.

Of course there are many fine dentists who are not included in this representative list. It is intended as a sampling of the great body of talent in the field of dentistry in the United States. A dentist’s inclusion on our list is based on the subjective judgments of his or her fellow dentists. While it is true that the lists may at times disproportionately reward visibility or popularity, we remain confident that our polling methodology largely corrects for any biases and that these lists continue to represent the most reliable, accurate, and useful list of dentists available anywhere. u

General Dentistry Robert A. Sharp, Jr. Julio Sixto Cynthia L. Skigen Kevin W. Snyder

HARBOUR DENTAL CARE

13245 Atlantic Blvd., Suite 6 Jacksonville

Ahmed A. Soliman Jason R. Speigel Michael D. Spencer Kelly T. Standish Alisha G. Stanford Lysandro O. Tapnio William D. Titus Timothy Toman John D. Verville W. Scott Wagner Laura M. Weaver Penney Weeks Jacqueline West J. Christopher Williams Michael C. Winter

PONTE VEDRA PREMIER DENTAL

100 Professional Dr. Ponte Vedra Beach

Andrew L. Witten Paul Wohlgemuth Rod Zimmerman A SMILE RESORT

3676 Crown Point Ct. Jacksonville

Endodontics

John M. Sullivan Emily W. Tyler Claudio H. Varella

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Stephanie R. Henley Scott W. Imray Richard W. Joseph Zane Khan John J. Mazzuoccolo Samira Meymand Clive B. Rayner Edward B. Sevetz, Jr. Andrew L. Skigen Scott R. Sklenicka Thomas E. Stakem Barry Steinberg Vanni R Strenta David D. Woods

Orthodontics Lori Aiosa Andrew B. Brown Trang M. Cao Jessica T. Crews JOY ORTHODONTICS

2750 Race Track Rd. Saint Johns 3600 Cardinal Point Dr. Jacksonville

Leandra Dopazo D. Tod Garner W. Jimmy Glenos W. Vaughn Holland

Leandro R. Britto Thomas A. Brown, Jr. Andrew Calhoun Thomas P. Currie

LAZZARA ORTHODONTICS

Christopher M. Geric

190 Marketside Ave., Suite A Ponte Vedra Beach

4788 Hodges Blvd., Suite 208 Jacksonville

Julia Lipkin

GERIC ENDODONTICS

John P. Lundgren Gary R. Manasse GERIC ENDODONTICS

4788 Hodges Blvd., Suite 208 Jacksonville

Joseph C. Mavec Daniella S. Peinado ENDODONTICS | DENTAL

13241 Bartram Park Blvd., Suite 1601 Jacksonville

Robert Radel Michael R. Smith Barry H. Stevens

FIRST COAST ENDODONTICS

2365 Park St. Jacksonville

John G. Lazzara

436 Jacksonville Dr. Jacksonville Beach

COASTLINE ORTHODONTICS

5101 Gate Parkway, Suite 3 Jacksonville

Pediatric Dentistry Ivis Alvarez Stephen D. Cochran Ross H. Fishman Karen A. Hubbard Beth A. Kailes Jila J. Mahajan Lindsay Maples Elaine S. Martinez-Koziol Gary R. Myers Marinela M. Nemetz Barry P. Setzer Flavio M. Soares Michael W. Stratton Gerald K. Weaver Robert V. Weaver

Periodontics Richard E. Aguila JACKSONVILLE DENTAL SPECIALISTS

11512 Lake Mead Ave., Suite 532 Jacksonville

Alan E. Fetner Michael J. Fetner Mary S. Hartigan Angeline A. Kuznia Gary David Perlman Roger D. Robinson, Jr. NORTHEAST FLORIDA PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS

Alan R. Ossi Shreena Patel Shawn M. Perce Jason Rice Suellen H. Rodeffer

Megan Moshea

John Bibb

Nomi Mujahid

Joshua Bietenholz

Kevin Neal

James William Bolton, III

Jason Olitsky

Eric Burgess

Mohamed Osman

Broc Flores

Charles Poblenz

Steven A. Garrett

Susan Prater-Kudlats

Jose Martinez

Angel Claire Sayoc Julio Sixto Cynthia Skigen

Cecil White, Jr. Kirk H. Young

Michael McClure

James Trantham

Jillian Medure

Jacqueline West

Jennifer Mokris

Michael Winter

Prosthodontics Nidal S. Elias

To learn more about the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, visit aacd.com.

Matthew Nawrocki JACKSONVILLE DENTAL SPECIALISTS

11512 Lake Mead Ave., Suite 532 Jacksonville

ASAP DENTAL CARE

960135 Gateway Blvd.

Fernandina Beach

Rami Al Saidi

James McCall

2383 Dunn Avenue Jacksonville

Brad Mokris

Approximately 30 AACD members practice in the Northeast Florida area, including:

Blanca Martinez-Hoppe

Robert Nemetz Joshua E. Perry

COASTLINE ORTHODONTICS

Thirty-five years ago, 60 dentists assembled in Las Vegas to create an organization devoted to the art and science of cosmetic dentistry. From this gathering of individual practicioners, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) has matured into the world’s largest organization for cosmetic dental professionals. The AACD now includes 6,000 practitioners, educators, researchers and laboratory technicians from 70 countries worldwide. The organization is dedicated to advancing excellence in the art and science of cosmetic dentistry and encouraging the highest standards of ethical conduct and responsible patient care.

3595 Cardinal Point Dr. Jacksonville

Valerie Minor

COASTLINE ORTHODONTICS

Cosmetic Dentists

Behzad Rajaei

7451 103rd Street, Suite 18 Jacksonville

Noel Rodriguez

JACKSONVILLE CENTER FOR PROSTHODONTICS & IMPLANT DENTISTRY

6855 Belfort Oaks Pl. Jacksonville

Kathryn E. Ryan

This list is excerpted from the 2023 topDentists™ list, which includes listings for over 180 dentists and specialists in the Jacksonville Metropolitan area. For more information call 706-364-0853; or write PO Box 970, Augusta, GA 30903; by email (help@usatopdentists. com) or visit www.usatopdentists.com. topDentists has used its best efforts in assembling material for this list but does not warrant that the information contained herein is complete or accurate, and does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. Copyright 2010-2023 by topDentists, LLC, Augusta, GA. All rights reserved. This list, or parts thereof, must not be reproduced in any form without permission. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without permission of topDentists. No fees may be charged, directly or indirectly, for the use of the information in this list without permission. u

Lost and found For kids, a lost tooth means a visit from a nighttime fairy.

For adults, it can be a serious situation that leads to unwanted consequences unless corrected.

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hen you lose a tooth, especially a back tooth, you may feel you don’t need to replace it, since no one can see that it’s missing and you have plenty of other teeth. However, there is more bone loss going on under the surface once a tooth is lost.

Surrounding each tooth is an alveolar bone that supports the tooth and when the tooth is lost, that bone basically melts away. This is why people who have lost most of their teeth and are not wearing dentures appear to have a caved-in appearance to their mouths.

Besides causing damage to the immediate area, tooth loss affects remaining teeth as well. Teeth create a structure for the face and their loss can shift the surrounding teeth, creating aesthetic issues and bite problems. A lost tooth can also affect facial structures such as the jaw, muscles, jaw joints, and even the skin. If several teeth are lost, it’s not uncommon to suffer from social consequences and poor nutrition.

The key benefit of dental implants over other tooth replacement systems is that an implant connects directly to the jaw-

bone. It’s obviously not the same as the original connection, but functions just the same. When a tooth is lost, bone loss will eventually occur in that region because the root is no longer stimulating and stabilizing the bone. By using titanium (which biochemically joins to bone) to replace the root, you get a bond that more accurately replicates the one found in nature.

When the supporting alveolar bone melts away it’s gone for good. However, a skilled dental professional can recreate bone to fuse with and support an implant through grafting.

This is wonderful news, but it is still best to have a dental implant as soon as possible after the tooth is lost for the most predictable aesthetic outcome.

Replacing a tooth with an implant and a dental crown is not a one-day procedure. The implant needs time to properly adhere to the bone and create a healthy fusion before the crown can be attached and full bite force can be applied. In most cases, it will take a few months to complete the process.

Due to the timeline, dental implants are actually a series of steps; each is very different and may require an individual specialist. Dental implants can be used to secure a denture in place for a more stable and confident smile. In addition, dental implant-secured dentures can help improve your oral health and the aesthetics of your natural smile.

Dentures can be bulky, awkward, and often slip while one is eating or speaking. Patients may feel too self-conscious of their denture to smile or laugh freely. Dentures do not provide stability of the jawbone or prevent gradual facial regression.

For qualifying patients, dental implant supported dentures provided better oral health and a more naturally beautiful smile than traditional dentures. A cosmetic dentist can determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.

Implants require substantial healthy bone tissue for a successful result. If patients do not have enough healthy bone tissue, there are other procedures that may be used to build bone tissue or optimize existing tissue, helping more patients receive the benefits of dental implants.

Implants are surgically implanted into the bone tissue and integrate with the jaw over the course of about three to six months.

Implants help to regenerate bone tissue preventing facial regression or sagging, and they support the facial structure to help patients maintain a more youthful appearance. u Source: American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

From left: Maria Abboud, DMD, Emily Waldman, DDS, Fernando Padron, DDS, Nadeem Ahmed, DMD, Yevah Cueto, DMD, Behzad Rajaei, DDS, MS, Jae Hyun Lee, DDS, Nathaniel Williams, DMD, Maria Rojas, DMD

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get to know your local Dental Team!

T ASAP DENTAL CARE, PUTTING A SMILE ON OUR PATIENTS’ FACES IS OUR GREATEST REWARD. For over 15 years, we have served the First Coast by providing access to same-day dental care, seven days a week, across five Jacksonville locations. Our patients are the ones that tell our story with 3,048+ 5-star Google reviews, making us one of the most highly reviewed dental practices in the country.

We are home to experienced dentists that provide our patients with complete, comfortable, competent dental care, including General & Emergency Dentistry, Fixed & Removable Prosthetics, Endodontics, Oral Surgery, Implants, IV Sedation and Clear Aligner Orthodontics.

Time is valuable, so when there is a dental need requiring immediate treatment, we offer convenient same-day appointments. Our patients are in good hands whether they need a simple tooth extraction or a full mouth reconstruction.

From the moment a patient walks into one of our practices, our caring team will put them at ease. We engage with our patients to ensure we understand why they came to see us and always provide options tailored to their needs. Our #1 priority is restoring smiles using advanced technology including 3D CBCT scans, digital scanners, and evidence-based techniques to achieve ultimate dental health.

Our in-house dental laboratory gives us full control over the quality of materials and facilitates timely fabrication of dental prostheses.

We have invested in the most current digital technology, production methods and employ highly skilled technicians. These standards ensure that we deliver the best product, made in the USA. We understand that the cost of treatment can be a barrier to care, and that insurance coverage doesn’t always cover the full cost. We help patients get the treatment they need by offering payment options. Many of our patients enroll in our Yearly Discount Savings Plan. This plan offers tremendous value, including unlimited exams and x-rays, two cleanings, and discounts on most dental treatments with no caps or limitations.

As a locally owned and operated Jacksonville business, we support our hometown team as the Official Dentist of the Jacksonville Jaguars.

We love interacting with the fans and let them know we are seeing patients 7 days a week for their convenience so stop by the Fan Entertainment Zone before any home game.

We believe that patient care extends beyond the time spent in our offices. To ensure that patients receive the exceptional service they deserve, our Patient Care Center is available from 7:00am to 7:30pm, Monday through Saturday and 7:30am to 6:30pm on Sundays. Whether it is a question regarding pre or post treatment, an upcoming appointment, or scheduling an appointment, they are there to serve patients, new and existing, and always with a smile. Call us today for your appointment, we can’t wait to take great care of you!

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About the team: Maria Abboud, DMD, is a dedicated general and cosmetic dentist, serving Jacksonville and surrounding areas. Her mission is to provide excellent dental care to her patients with a gentle touch. She enjoys treating patients of all ages.

Emily Waldman, DDS, attended Cornell University with a major in Biology. She is a strong advocate for patient dental education and provides her patients with detailed explanations of their oral health concerns and treatments.

Fernando Padron, DDS, is a Prosthodontist,

in addition to his training to complete his DDS. His education, advanced training, and experience give him the unique ability to perform a wide range of dental treatments.

Nadeem Ahmed, DMD, was born in Huddersfield,

England and moved to the United States in 1987. He attended Barry University where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. Dr. Ahmed graduated with honors from the University of Florida College of Dentistry.

Yevah Cueto, DMD, is a third-generation dentist and received her dental diploma from LECOM School of Dental Medicine in Bradenton, FL. She has worked in the dental field since 2006 in various positions including administration, patient care and management.

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Behzad Rajaei, DDS, MSc, has been helping people

smile since 1997. He provides preventive, cosmetic and restorative dental services including fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures, veneers, dentures, extractions, bone grafting, root canal therapy, dental implant restorations, laser therapy, oral cancer screenings, and teeth whitening.

ASAP DENTAL CARE 7451 103rd St., Suite 18, Jacksonville, FL 32210 (904) 777-4622 • AsapDentalCare.com ASAP ATLANTIC DENTAL CARE 12777 Atlantic Blvd., Suite 26, Jacksonville, FL 32225 (904) 312-7777 • AsapDentalCare.com/atlantic ASAP TOTAL DENTAL CARE 6960 Bonneval Rd., Suite 201, Jacksonville, FL 32216 (904) 281-9988 • AsapDentalCare.com/southside 3000-38 Dunn Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32218 (904) 768-3790 • AsapDentalCare.com/northside AMERICAN DENTAL WELLNESS 38A Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, FL 32073 (904) 272-9440 • AmericanDentalWellness.com

Jae Hyun Lee, DDS, and his team’s dedication and

commitment ensure that each patient has the proper education and understanding of the treatment that they will receive.

Nathaniel Williams, DMD, attended UNLV obtaining a bachelor’s degree in chemistry in 2008 and graduated Cum Laude. He attended a General Practice Residency, working as a general dentist for several years, and completed his Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery residency.

Maria Rojas, DMD, prides herself in the integration of comprehensive dental treatment with veneers, crowns and implants. She is committed to educating her patients about their oral health needs and has a true passion for cosmetic dentistry.

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Jacksonville Dental specialists Specializing in Full Mouth Rehabilitation

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the Medical University of South Carolina. A periodontist completes three additional years of residency training beyond dental school.

Periodontists are specialists in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases that affect the supporting structures (gum tissue and bone) around the teeth and the surgical placement and maintenance of dental implants.

Jacksonville Dental Specialists was recently recognized as one of Northeast Florida’s Fastest-Growing Companies over the past five years by the Jacksonville Business Journal. Their commitment to excellence has allowed them to continue to make a difference in our community. They have the distinction of being the only dental practice to make this prestigious list of the fastest growing companies.

Dr. Aguila’s areas of expertise include both traditional and minimally invasive laser-assisted periodontal surgery to help patients save their teeth, all aspects of dental implant surgery, including advanced bone grafting and sinus grafting, cosmetic periodontal plastic surgery for smile enhancement (gum grafts and gum lifts) and oral and intravenous conscious sedation to maximize the comfort of his patients.

Dr. Aguila truly enjoys treating the most complex and challenging cases with Dr. Nawrocki, as well as collaborating with some of the finest dentists in northeast Florida through the traditional, referral based side of his practice.

Our doctors take pride in providing the highest quality specialty care for patients all in one convenient office location. Dr. Richard Aguila is our Board Certified Periodontist who practices the full scope of periodontics and implant dentistry. He completed his residency training in periodontics and dental implant surgery at

Dr. Matthew Nawrocki is our American Dental Association accredited Prosthodontist who practices the full scope of prosthodontics and implant dentistry. After completing his dental training, he completed his residency training in prosthodontics at the University of Florida. A Prosthodontist is one of the nine recognized dental special-

UR PRACTICE IS JACKSONVILLE’S PREMIER DENTAL TREATMENT FACILITY BEING THE AREA’S ONLY MULTISPECIALTY DENTAL PRACTICE IN NORTHEAST FLORIDA that is owned and operated by doctors who are all American Dental Association (ADA) recognized dental specialists. By combining a team approach and patient-centered care philosophy with our advanced specialty training and state-of-the-art technology, it has allowed our doctors to successfully treat some of the most difficult surgical, full-mouth restorative and dental implant cases.

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ties and spends 3-4 years of additional formal training in a hospital based accredited program beyond that of dental school. Prosthodontists are responsible for the esthetic restoration and replacement of teeth and are considered the “quarterback” of the dental team, collaborating with general dentists, dental specialists, health professionals, and laboratory technicians to restore optimum appearance and function to your smile. Among the various treatments that Prosthodontists provide are the following: esthetics/cosmetics, crowns, bridges, veneers, dentures, dental implants, TMD-jaw joint problems, traumatic injuries to the mouth’s structures, congenital or birth anomalies to teeth, snoring, sleep apnea, and oral cancer reconstruction and continuing care.

Our doctors at Jacksonville Dental Specialists have been certified as the exclusive provider of HYBRIDGE™ in northeast Florida and southeast Georgia. HYBRIDGE™ is a patented dental implant supported fixed prosthesis that replaces up to 12 teeth in the upper or lower jaw at far less the time and far less the expense than the traditional fixed implant prosthesis. The HYBRIDGE™ treatment protocol has allowed our doctors to perform more full-mouth implant supported restorations than any other dental practice in northeast Florida during the past six years.

As Educational Leaders in the NE Florida region, they provide High-Quality Continuing Education (CE) for dentists through Advanced Dental Seminars of Jacksonville.

About us:

Matthew Nawrocki, DMD, MS

Richard E. Aguila, DDS, MHS

EDUCATION

EDUCATION

B.S. University of Florida; M.S. in Dental Science D.M.D. University of Florida College of Dentistry Specialist Certificate in Prosthodontics

Periodontics & Implant Surgery Residency, Medical University of South Carolina General Practice Residency, Naval Medical Center San Diego\ D.D.S West Virginia University School of Dentistry

MEMBERSHIPS & AFFILIATIONS

Florida Prosthodontic Association American College of Prosthodontics Florida Dental Association American Dental Association Northeast District Dental Association

BOARD CERTIFICATION

Diplomate, American Board of Periodontology Certified in Conscious Sedation, American Dental Society of Anesthesiology

connect: 11512 Lake Mead Ave., Suite 532, Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 543-3843 JacksonvilleDentalSpecialists.com ADVERTISING FEATURE

A Smile Resort Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry

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R. ROD ZIMMERMAN, HONORED AS A TOP DENTIST BY HIS PEERS FOR AN OUTSTANDING 10 CONSECUTIVE YEARS, humbly extends his gratitude to the wonderful community of Jacksonville, Florida. Dr. Zimmerman’s journey is one of distinction and dedication. Graduating with Cum Laude honors from the University of California, Irvine, he pursued his passion for dental care, earning a doctorate in dental surgery (DDS) from the prestigious McGill School of Dentistry. Adding to this journey, he completed a General Practice Residency (GPR) at the University of Florida, followed by a dedicated 38 years of private dental practice in the same location in Jacksonville, Florida. He is armed with a wealth of wisdom and veritable skill.

Dr. Zimmerman is more than just a perfectionist in his field; he’s a compassionate individual who treats his patients like family. As an experienced clinician who has seen well over ten thousand patients, as well as a father of three children, his maturity and experience underscore the importance of providing personalized patient care. Dr. ‘Z’ is easy to talk to; he ensures every patient can make choices that optimize their dental needs, balanced by affordable treatment options.

A new era in Dr. Zimmerman’s practice and office is marked by Dr. Ovsiy taking over in the year 2023, as the new owner of “A Smile Resort.” Dr. Zimmerman trusts her and wants her to treat and care for all his patients. “I am confident that she will continue to bring smiles to their faces for decades to come,” he says. Meanwhile, Dr. Zimmerman’s strength and dedication to dentistry remain unwavering. He continues to educate, volunteer, and provide exceptional care to past and new patients.

Together, Dr. Ovsiy and Dr. Zimmerman are united on a mission to create natural and radiant smiles quickly and effortlessly. They strive to use the latest technology, advanced clinical techniques, superlative fabrication methods and materials, as well as comfortable environments with options such as digital entertainment or sedation. The Smile Resort team warmly welcomes all patients searching for an excellent dental care experience. We are located in the peaceful, caring and picturesque city of Jacksonville on the east coast of Florida.

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Furthermore, Dr. Zimmerman has been privileged to pass on his expertise by mentoring a talented dentist. Dr. Olexandra Ovsiy, known as Dr. ‘O.’, graduated from Brooklyn College with Latin Honors (Cum Laude) majoring in Bio-Chemistry. She moved on to earn a doctorate in dental surgery (DDS) from NYU College of Dentistry. Continued by an intensive one-year General Practice Residency (GPR) at Coney Island Hospital in Brooklyn, NY. Immediately following, she worked for two years in a private Manhattan dental practice. Followed by four years living and working in Jacksonville Florida as a corporate senior associate dentist managed by Great Expressions.

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3676 Crown Point Court, Jacksonville, FL 32257 (904) 268-2011 • asmileresort.com

Caven Dental Group Advanced. Thoughtful. Trusted.

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R. CAVEN’S FAMILY HAS PROVIDED TRUSTED DENTAL CARE FOR OVER 160 YEARS. And today, we at Caven Dental Group believe that life is nicer with a healthy, beautiful smile.

Caven Dental Group is a privately owned dental office committed to providing a caring and thoughtful patient experience that helps you achieve your goals. You will never be judged in our office, no matter how long you have been away from professional dental care. Caven Dental Group has assembled some of the highest dental talent to make up our amazing team and we are ready to help you get really healthy. With the advanced digital capabilities of modern dentistry, your path to a truly engaging smile is more incredible and smooth than ever!

Call today to see how we can serve you.

Check out our ★★★★★ Reviews at CavenDental.com: ★★★★★ “I was very impressed with Dr. Caven’s calm, thorough explanation of the issues at hand and the treatment for them.

He explained everything in an unhurried manner and was very open to questions I posed.”

— Maria ★★★★★ “There is no healthcare experience as welcoming and genuine as Caven Dental.”

— Eric ★★★★★ “Dr. Caven is compassionate & he and his team work diligently to care for my teeth, oral health and thus overall wellness.

Visibly passionate about Dentistry.”

— JA

connect: Dr. Richard Caven, DMD • Shelby Denham, DMD

8930 RG Skinner Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32256 • (904) 645-3366 CavenDental.com ADVERTISING FEATURE

Doctors Lake Family Dental Dayn C. Boitet, DDS & Yakov Shimunov, DDS

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OCTORS LAKE FAMILY DENTAL IS HONORED TO HAVE BEEN VOTED “BOLD CITY’S BEST DENTAL PRACTICE” [2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, & 2023] as well as “Bold City’s Best Place to Work-Small Business” (2017] by the community and one of Jacksonville Magazine’s “Top Doctors” since 2014. They have also been named a “Top Dentist in Florida” (20202022) by America’s Top Doctors, “Dentist of the Year” for the United States from 2021-2022 by the Registry of 100, and one of America’s Top 100 Doctors in all fields of medicine from 2022-2023.

Our practice has been privately owned and operated by Dr. Dayn Boitet for over 45 years. Dr. Boitet, Dr. Shimunov and their team treat the entire family for their general, cosmetic, dental sleep medicine and dental implant needs. The beautiful Mediterranean style practice provides state-of-the-art dental care with the most modern equipment available and a picturesque view of protected wetlands from every chair.

The office is equipped with CEREC technology which allows the dentists’ team to fabricate metal-free, porcelain restorations or crowns in just one visit! The team uses top-of-the-line, in-house 3-D CT scans and digital X-rays for the most accurate diagnosis. New patient gifts, complimentary WIFI, and a comfort menu ensures a relaxed atmosphere for every patient.

The team at Doctors Lake Family Dental are active in the community and have supported over 40 Clay County charities. This year they have adopted Isaiah 117 and are currently accepting donations for children that are in transition into foster care and are awaiting placement with a family. Additionally, Isaiah 117 is building a home within our community that

will provide a comforting place for these children to wait—a place that is safe with friendly and loving volunteers who provide clean clothes, toys, and a place they can call their own throughout the fostering process.

Doctors Lake Family Dental values its patients’ time, in-office experience, and works to meet their every need! Call today to schedule your reservation.

about us: Dayn C. Boitet, DDS EDUCATION

Undergraduate and D.D.S. Indiana University (graduated with honors) AFFILIATIONS

Past-President: Clay County Dental Society; Academy of Osseointegration; Academy of Osseointegration Foundation; Titanium Society Fellow: Academy of Osseointegration Member: Clay County Dental Society; Northeast District Dental Association; Florida Dental Association; American Dental Association; International Academy of Sleep Diplomate: American Sleep and Breathing Academy

Yakov Shimunov, DDS EDUCATION

D.D.S New York University College of Dentistry AFFILIATIONS

Active Member: Clay County Dental Society; American Dental Association; Florida Dental Association

connect: 1665 Eagle Harbor Pkwy., Fleming Island, FL 32003 (904) 637-4410 • facebook.com/DoctorsLakeFamilyDental DoctorsLakeFamilyDental.com ADVERTISING FEATURE

endodontics | Dental Daniella S. Peinado, DDS & Jenna Hart, DMD

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R. DANIELLA PEINADO HAS PRACTICED DENTISTRY FOR ALMOST 30 YEARS AND SPECIALIZES IN ROOT CANAL TREATMENT, ALSO KNOWN AS ENDODONTICS. A native of Brazil, she graduated from the University of Cidade de São Paulo with her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. She completed a fellowship at the University of Florida College of Dentistry Department of Endodontics and an Endodontics Residency at the Albert Einstein Medical Center IB Bender Division of Endodontics in Philadelphia, PA - one of the most prestigious endodontic programs in the United States. Being a hospital-based program Dr. Peinado routinely saw trauma cases (children and adults) coming from the ER. As a result, traumatic injuries of teeth are one of her passions.

Dr. Peinado designed endodontics | dental to reflect her commitment to outstanding patient care and to make patients feel welcome and at ease. The clinical areas include the latest advances in technology including Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), Microscopes and the Gentle Wave Technology that improves the efficacy and efficiency of root canal treatment (RCT), as well as the patient experience. endodontics | dental won the Dental Office Design Competition category “Outstanding Specialty Practice” in 2017. An award given by American Dental Association recognizing dental facilities that most effectively express the practice philosophy of its practitioner and demonstrate a thoughtful assembly of design characteristics associated with an up-to-date dental office.

Dr. Peinado is passionate about the advancement of Endodontics. Her enthusiasm translates to the education of her patients with a thorough explanation of the process of root canal therapy.

In June 2022, Dr. Peinado opened her second location in Ponte Vedra/ Nocatee area and now she is excited that Dr. Jenna Hart has joined her practices to maintain availability and continue providing excellent care to their patients.

Dr Jenna Hart was born and raised in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. She graduated from The University of Florida in 2014 with a B.S. degree majoring in Zoology. Dr. Hart received her D.M.D. degree in 2018 from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. After working as a general dentist in Jacksonville, she decided to pursue the endodontic specialty. She became a triple gator when she attended her post-graduate endodontic residency at the University of Florida College of Dentistry where she spent her final year as a chief resident.

Dr. Peinado and Dr. Hart have partnered with most dental insurances and their friendly staff will ensure you receive the maximum benefits available to you.

Complete transparency is guaranteed from start to finish as they guide you through your treatment.

Dr. Peinado holds a position as a Clinical Professor at the University of Florida College of Dentistry Department of Endodontics.

Dr. Peinado is an active member of the American Association of Endodontics (AAE), a past Trustee of the AAE Foundation Board of Trustees and Chair of the AAE Foundation’s Outreach Program that provides Endodontic care to under-served communities. She also currently serves as a Board Member for the Florida Dental Association Foundation.

Dr. Peinado and Dr. Hart look forward to having the opportunity to take care of you!

connect: BARTRAM PARK: 13241 Bartram Park Blvd., Suite 1601, Jacksonville, FL 32258 NOCATEE: 320 Town Plaza Ave., Suite 140, Nocatee, FL 32081

(904) 207-7700

www.Endodontics.dental ADVERTISING FEATURE

Farnham dentistry MacKenzie Farnham, DDS

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R. MACKENZIE FARNHAM IS A SECOND GENERATION DENTIST perpetuating the practice of excellent dentistry that his parents started in 1983. For nearly 40 years Farnham Dentistry has been providing the highest standard of personalized dental care to the Mandarin and Greater Jacksonville community.

Born and raised in Jacksonville, Dr. Farnham graduated from the Bolles School before graduating Cum Laude from the University of Florida. He then earned his dental degree from the University of Maryland. Following a General Practice Residency at the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital system in New Jersey, he returned home to join his family in private practice.

Dr. Farnham and his team pride themselves on truly listening to their patients and meeting everyone where they are comfortable. From dynamic dental implant guidance technology, like X-Nav, to same-day crown and bridge work and fixed dentures, Farnham Dentistry stays at the cutting edge of modern dental technology in order to offer the highest quality of care. In addition to nearly 100 years of combined dentist experience, our team has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education in cosmetics, implantology, digital dentistry (including same-day crowns, veneers, and bridges), orthodontics, temporo-mandibular joint dysfunction, therapeutic and cosmetic Botox and dermal fillers, and obstructive sleep apnea. Farnham Dentistry has a dedicated and well-trained team that excels in providing comprehensive dental care for the entire family.

Dr. Farnham stays active in his community as a member of the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, and the Northeast Florida Dental Society. He volunteers his time practicing dentistry for those in need both locally and abroad. Dr. Farnham is also active within the community through the Mandarin Rotary Club as well as the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, Dr. Farnham and his team, including their therapy dog, Nugget, enjoy using their training to help patients with dental phobias or anxieties experience a relaxing and pleasant visit to the dentist.

connect:

11528 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32223 (904) 262-2551 FarnhamDentistry.com ADVERTISING FEATURE

Harbour Dental Care

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Cosmetic • Implant • Sedation Dentistry

F THERE’S ONE THING THAT CAN RUIN YOUR DAY, IT’S SUDDEN DENTAL PAIN. Whether it’s from a chipped tooth, a cavity, or something worse, the last thing you want to do is wait several days for an appointment with your dentist. That’s why the Harbour Dental Care team prides itself on offering same or next-day appointments for patients experiencing dental pain or a dental emergency.

With convenient locations throughout the Jacksonville area, Harbour Dental Care offers access to the latest technology and experienced, friendly dentists. The entire team is obsessed with providing the best dental care possible while prioritizing patient comfort and convenience — a commitment that’s earned them a near-perfect score on Google reviews.

The team’s advanced training and experience enable them to perform all types of procedures, ranging from dental implants and orthodontics to IV sedation and wisdom teeth extractions. Their dentists take pride in using the latest techniques and highest quality materials to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.

As patient Mary P. said in a recent review, “I was very nervous about being at the dentist office after years of avoidance. The professionalism, obvious skill and friendly demeanor of the entire office put me at ease and made it a very pleasant experience. My opinion is that this dentist is the best out there.”

So whether you’re experiencing sudden pain or simply want to experience superior service and care during a routine visit, don’t hesitate to call any location and speak to a friendly team member who will schedule your visit as soon as possible, or book your own appointment online in minutes.

About the team: Harbour Dental Care’s team of smile restoration experts includes (from left): Kendall Frazier,

DDS, Mohamed Osman, DDS, Kevin Snyder, DDS, Greg Sabino, DDS, PhD, James Lee, DMD, and Christina Choe, DMD.

connect:

JACKSONVILLE: 13245 Atlantic Blvd., Suite 6, Jacksonville, FL 32225 (904) 220.7800 NEW JACKSONVILLE LOCATION: 4124 University Blvd S, Jacksonville, FL 32216 (904) 733.3763 ST. AUGUSTINE:

75 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine, FL 32084 (904) 810.1002 ST. JOHNS:

130 Gateway Cir., Jacksonville, FL 32259 (904) 789.3590 www.harbourdental.care

The Harbour Dental Care team can’t wait to meet you!

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The Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics & Implant Dentistry

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Dedicated Specialists in the Restoration & Replacement of Teeth

s a Prosthodontist, Dr. Rodriguez is uniquely qualified to provide highly skilled, customized, and expert dental restoration services for any complex dental condition. He has a careful understanding of the dynamics of a smile and the preservation of a healthy mouth.

The Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry offers you a spectrum of services, support and exceptional care. No matter how complex your case, our highly experienced team of experts will deliver a dental solution that is precise! We are the architects of beautifully designed smiles and artfully planned dentistry.

WHAT IS A PROSTHODONTIST? Prosthodontists are dental specialists who focus on the restoration and replacement of teeth, helping their patients to obtain optimum appearance and function into their smiles. They are extensively trained in state-of-the-art techniques related to dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures (complete or partial), veneers, cosmetic dentistry and more.

After dental school they receive three years of additional specialized training, to focus in major dental problems.

Smile Enhancement • Dental Implant Restorations Total Dental Reconstructions • Custom Complete Dentures

With over 30 years of experience in the Prosthodontics Science, The Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry continues to be the number one option for prosthetic and implant restorations.

Dr. Rodriguez and his experienced staff are highly respected members of the dental community. This is why dentists refer their most challenging cases to them. To do this, they also have a reputation for assembling and managing the finest teams of dental specialists in the region.

Being one of the first Prosthodontists in the nation to be trained to use Advanced Dental Imaging Technology at the Naval Postgraduate Dental School in Bethesda, Maryland, Dr. Rodriguez knows how important it is to have the best equipment and technology in his practices. This is why Dr. Rodriguez prepared the Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry with the best technology to provide advanced services to our patients. This is why the technology at the Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry is the leading edge in surgical implant placement planning and restorative treatment.

About Dr. Rodriguez: Noel Rodriguez, DMD, MS EDUCATION:

Biology (with Honors), University of Puerto Rico D.M.D. (with Honors), University of Puerto Rico Advanced Education in General Dentistry, Naval Branch Health Clinic M.S. in Oral Biology at the Uniformed Services, University of the Health Sciences Prosthodontic Degree from the Naval Postgraduate Dental School

connect:

6855 Belfort Oaks Place, Jacksonville, FL 32216 (904) 281-0658 • JCPIDental.com

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Martinez Dental Solutions General, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry

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R. JOSE M. MARTINEZ HAS BEEN PRACTICING THE ART OF DENTISTRY FOR 29 YEARS. Growing up, his family was very close. So, after graduating from Southern Illinois University, he decided to return to Miami, where he practiced for almost 13 years. Along the way he married his beautiful wife Sandra and, 25 years later, his family has grown to include a son and a daughter. In 2005 they moved to Jacksonville where, with much hard work, in 2006 he proudly opened Southpoint Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry, followed by Signature Smiles in 2009. In 2016, he changed the names of both practices to Martinez Dental Solutions, to better represent the scope of dentistry they provide.

Dentistry, as many professions, has changed profoundly, not only as it relates to the materials used, but in the way it is delivered to patients.

Improving patient care and the satisfaction of all involved is Dr. Martinez’s primary focus. He is known for an innovative commitment to the discovery and transfer of dental knowledge, superior skills and the highest degree of patient care and service. New and proven technologies give him additional choices in how to provide excellent patient care with the best materials around.

“At Martinez Dental Solutions, we believe that the benefits of a healthy, beautiful smile are immeasurable. Our goal is to help our patients reach and maintain maximum oral health by providing the highest dental care available.”

About Dr. Martinez: AFFILIATIONS

American Academy of Implant Dentistry American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry American Dental Association Florida Dental Association North East District Dental Association Hispanic Dental Association

connect: Jose M. Martinez, DMD, PA

SOUTHSIDE: 6817 Southpoint Pkwy., Suite 302,

Jacksonville, FL 32216 • (904) 296-6820

ST. JOHNS: 3546 St. Johns Bluff Rd., S., Unit 114,

Jacksonville, FL 32224 • (904) 996-8162 MartinezDentalSolutions.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Geric Endodontics Microscopic Root Canal Therapy

Smile More at Coastline Orthodontics

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Transforming Smiles Since 1983

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AVING TRANSFORMED MORE THAN 30,000 SMILES, our expert team has been proudly providing trustworthy orthodontics treatment in the Jacksonville area for decades.

We’re passionate about offering the safest and most advanced orthodontics treatments available, and we’re committed to continuously remaining up-to-date on industry advancements and techniques. Dr. Keezel, Dr. Mokris, Dr. Minor, Dr. Lipkin, and our entire Coastline Orthodontics team all take pride in helping patients transform their confidence and achieve the smile of their dreams. With customized treatment plans and our trusted team of experts, you and your family can enjoy more reasons to smile at Coastline Orthodontics!

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T GERIC ENDODONTICS, OUR SPECIALISTS HAVE THE EXPERTISE AND STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY combined with compassionate care to ensure an exceptional dental experience! Dr. Christopher Geric and Dr. Gary Manasse combined have nearly 50 years of dental experience to provide the Jacksonville community. Both doctors and our outstanding supportive team take pride in making each visit a positive experience.

Our facility is designed to aid in relaxation, ensuring maximum comfort and a thorough understanding of your dental needs. Dr. Geric and Dr. Manasse work closely with all referring dentists to determine the best possible treatment for each individual. During each procedure, both doctors use a Global Surgical Microscope, which allows greater accuracy, efficiency, and predictability. This microscopic technology facilitates the most difficult endodontic procedures, allowing each tooth the greatest potential for success.

We also utilize the most advanced technology such as CBCT 3-D imaging. This allows Dr. Geric and Dr. Manasse to diagnose and treat disease that could not be seen with regular dental x-rays.

The ability to render low-volume, low-radiation, 3-D imagery enables us to safely provide you with exceptional treatment and diagnosis of complex issues. We value the opportunity to provide you with the best endodontic treatment possible.

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PHONE: 904-326-3267 FERNANDINA BEACH: 960135 Gateway Blvd, 32034 JACKSONVILLE NORTH: 2363 Dunn Ave, 32218 JACKSONVILLE SOUTH: 5101 Gate Pkwy, Suite 3, 32256 MACCLENNY: 60 West Blvd, 32063

Christopher M. Geric, DMD & Gary R. Manasse, DMD 4788 Hodges Blvd., Suite 208, Jacksonville, FL 32224 (904) 683-1744

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GericEndo.com

C.J. Henley, DMD Cosmetic • Family • Dentistry

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t C.J. Henley, DMD it is our goal to form life-long relationships with our patients, providing them with the best in cosmetic dentistry, family dentistry, and oral medicine.

Dr. Henley and his staff pride themselves on being a patient focused practice and strive to spend as much time as needed with each and every patient.

Dr. Henley believes that the integration of technology in dentistry is important to excellent clinical outcomes, however that is no substitute for diagnostic expertise and clinical mastery. The focus should not be on how quickly the work is completed, but how long the work lasts. Excellent dentistry should stand the test of time.

Dr. Henley earned his Bachelor of Science in Integrative Biology and his Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the University of Florida.

During his time at the University of Florida College of Dentistry, Dr. Henley received awards for ethics and cosmetic dentistry.

Dr. Henley is dedicated to legislation that helps preserve the highest clinical standards in dentistry. He has served as the President of the Northeast District Dental Association and as Delegate to the Florida Dental Association.

While in private practice Dr. Henley has continued his educational commitment and served as faculty in the department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Florida College of Dentistry.

Dr. Henley serves as a member of the Head and Neck Tumor Board at Baptist MD Anderson. The tumor board is a multi-specialty group that works together using the latest in both dentistry and medicine to ensure that cancer patients have the best possible outcomes.

AFFILIATIONS: Northeast District Dental Association (Past President); Florida Dental Association (Delegate); Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Florida College of Dentistry (Faculty); Head and Neck Tumor Board, Baptist MD Anderson

Hidden Hills Family Dentistry

Paul Schloth, DMD, Rachel Schloth-Flynn, DMD, & Brooke Schloth-Gilligan, DMD

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OR NEARLY THIRTY YEARS, DR. PAUL SCHLOTH HAS BEEN PRACTICING DENTISTRY IN JACKSONVILLE based on the philosophy that oral health affects every aspect of our lives. Regular dental visits are essential to achieving and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Schloth and some of his staff have been together for over twenty years and they are dedicated to their patients’ and their families’ dental health and overall well-being. They are committed to building long-lasting relationships based on trust and medical integrity.

Dr. Schloth is highly skilled at restorative and cosmetic dentistry, as well as removable and implant dentistry. He has taken countless continuing education hours in esthetic dentistry. He is knowledgeable on current techniques and developments in dental technology, with the newest addition of a soft tissue laser. Dr. Schloth strives to provide the highest level of care in a comfortable environment.

Dr. Rachel Schloth-Flynn, Dr. Schloth’s oldest daughter, joined the practice in 2019. She is passionate about providing the highest quality restorative, cosmetic, and preventive dentistry to all patients of Hidden Hills Family Dentistry. Dr. Brooke Schloth-Gilligan most recently joined the practice as of July 2022. She is eager to serve all ages of the community to achieve optimum health through promoting oral health.

Hidden Hills Family Dentistry recently added a new hygiene wing and is eager to serve a larger patient base. As always this practice will be a family tradition for many years to come!

connect:

connect:

3675 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32207

12086 Fort Caroline Rd., Suite 105, Jacksonville, FL 32225 (904) 807-9127

Office: (904) 398-1549 • www.cjhenleydmd.com

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Joy Orthodontics

Jessica T. Crews, DMD, MS & Kelsey Wahl, DMD, MS

Blanca Martinez-Hoppe, DMD, PA

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Hodges Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

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R. BLANCA MARTINEZ-HOPPE IS A FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTIST who provides exceptional care for patients of all ages. After graduating dental school with honors in 1997, she went on to complete a general practice residency program at Mt. Sinai Hospital in Miami Beach.

Dr. Hoppe then relocated to Tampa, where she joined a group practice and lived there for nine years until she decided to open Hodges Family & Cosmetic Dentistry and moved to Jacksonville to be closer to her family. At Hodges Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Martinez-Hoppe and her team of friendly professionals provide state-of-the-art services in a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. She believes in conservative cosmetic treatments for the restoration of a beautiful and long-lasting smile. You can expect compassionate and professional service.

She believes in preventive care and maintenance for the overall health of the individual. When you visit with Dr. Martinez-Hoppe, you feel right at home. She always addresses your main concerns and listens attentively to your requests. Hodges Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is a dental practice devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile.

T JOY ORTHODONTICS, WE PROVIDE THE HIGHEST-QUALITY TREATMENT IN A GENTLE, FUN ENVIRONMENT. We love what we do and we know you will see that when you visit us at Joy Orthodontics. We treat children and adults, and we are an Invisalign® Premier Provider, offering treatment with state-of-theart technology. We promise you are in great hands with our doctors.

Dr. Crews and Dr. Wahl are board-certified orthodontists with the American Board of Orthodontics, which is the highest orthodontic achievement in the profession and held by only a few orthodontists in the North Florida area.

Dr. Jessica Crews, DMD, MS, grew up in Jacksonville. She and her husband have four children and she is grateful for the opportunity to both practice and raise her family in the Jacksonville community. Dr. Crews received a Bachelor of Science from the University of Pennsylvania.

She received her Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Florida College of Dentistry and earned a Master’s Degree in Dentistry by completing the Orthodontic Residency Program at the University of Louisville.

Dr. Kelsey Wahl, DMD, MS, was born and raised in South Florida and earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Vanderbilt University.

She received her Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Florida College of Dentistry, and she continued as a gator for her orthodontic specialty training, earning her master’s degree through the Department of Orthodontics.

Everyone at Joy Orthodontics looks forward to welcoming you to our practice and providing you with a healthy, beautiful smile you’ll love sharing with the world!

connect: connect:

4776 Hodges Blvd., Suite 103, Jacksonville, FL 32224 (904) 992-0922

SAINT JOHNS: 2750 Race Track Rd., Saint Johns, FL 32259 JACKSONVILLE: 3600 Cardinal Point Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32257

HodgesCosmeticDental.com

(904) 737-4626 • JoyOrthodontics.com ADVERTISING FEATURE

Northeast Florida Periodontics & Dental Implants

Lazzara Orthodontics

Roger D. Robinson Jr., D.M.D., M.S. Diplomate, American Board of Periodontology

Creating the Bold City’s Best Smiles for Children, Teens, and Adults

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RS. JOHN LAZZARA AND AMY POBLENZ BELIEVE THAT “GENUINE CARE” IS AS FUNDAMENTAL TO THEIR PATIENTS’ SUCCESS as the orthodontic expertise embedded in every treatment plan. Their commitment extends beyond merely crafting beautiful smiles—it encompasses building trust, fostering confidence, and ensuring a memorable patient experience.

Lazzara Orthodontics recognizes that the journey to a radiant smile isn’t just about the end result—it’s also about relishing the experience. Every innovation they introduce and each piece of state-of-the-art technology they adopt aims to make this journey quicker, more seamless, and truly enjoyable for their patients—all while requiring fewer visits and ensuring maximum comfort.

So, what genuinely differentiates Lazzara Orthodontics? It isn’t solely the braces or aligners utilized during treatments; it’s the dedication demonstrated by a passionate team, following a treatment philosophy that places the individual patient at its core. This approach cultivates a “culture of care” that proves as transformative as the orthodontic transformations they achieve.

Being recognized as a finalist for “Bold City’s Best Orthodontist” is more than just an honor—it’s a reflection of their unwavering passion to enrich their patients’ lives. Drs. Lazzara, Poblenz, and their exceptional team continually aim to exceed expectations, inspiring each patient to become an ambassador for the Lazzara experience, while sculpting smiles that not only endure but also exude confidence throughout a lifetime.

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R. ROGER D. ROBINSON JR. received his DMD degree from the University of Kentucky where he also specialized in Periodontology. While concurrently completing his specialty requirements, Roger earned a Master of Science in Dentistry. Dr. Robinson has achieved the respected honor of being recognized as a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. He has also been extensively involved with organized dentistry and served as the Florida Association of Periodontist President 2022-2023.

Roger has been in private practice since 2006. He has extensive training in all phases of periodontal and implant therapy including management of periodontal diseases, cosmetic periodontal procedures, soft tissue grafting, hard and soft tissue ridge augmentation, socket preservation, sinus grafting, immediate and delayed implant procedures, orthodontic anchorage, and management of comprehensive periodontal and implant treatment plans. He offers his patients both IV and oral sedation techniques to ease their anxiety and apprehensions.

Dr. Robinson’s practice motto of “Excellence Always” signifies he always strives to provide the highest level of personal care to his patients through Evidence Based Therapy. His enthusiasm and eagerness to please his patients and the doctors involved in the patient’s treatment, as well as his personal integrity, family and professional values are the pillars of his personal philosophy. Roger will always strive to earn your confidence, especially in being part of your dental team, earning the expectation of trust.

connect:

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Jacksonville Beach • Nocatee (904) 270-8750

3595 Cardinal Point Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32257 P: (904) 737-2040

BeachesBraces.com

www.dentalimplantsofjacksonville.com ADVERTISING FEATURE

Ponte Vedra Premier Dental/ Maples Dental Family • Cosmetics • Implants

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ELCOME TO PONTE VEDRA PREMIER DENTAL AND MAPLES DENTAL, WHERE COMPASSIONATE CARE MEETS STATE-OF-THE-ART EXPERTISE. With over 35 years of dedicated service, we stand as a beacon of excellence in dental health. Our mission is simple: to provide you with the highest standard of care, ensuring your smile shines brilliantly for years to come.

At our practice, you’ll find a team of highly skilled professionals who are not only experts in their field but are also genuinely passionate about your oral health. With a wealth of experience, our staff has honed their skills to perfection, making your comfort and satisfaction their top priority. Whether you’re due for a routine cleaning or seeking specialized treatment, rest assured, you’re in capable hands.

From the moment you step through our doors, you’ll experience a welcoming environment designed to put you at ease. Our stateof-the-art equipment ensures that you receive the most advanced treatments available, delivered with precision and care.

Join us in continuing the tradition of excellence that has defined our practice for over three decades. Schedule your appointment today, and let us embark on a journey towards optimal oral health together. Your smile deserves nothing less. Experience the good a simple smile can do.

Dr. Kevin Neal and Dr. Michael Winter have made the Jacksonville area their home for decades. Dr. Andy and Brian Maples were raised here and are proud graduates of the Episcopal School of Jacksonville. Official team Dentists of the Jacksonville Icemen!

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Barry H. Stevens, DDS

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Endodontics

R. STEVENS PROUDLY SUPPORTS THE JACKSONVILLE BUSINESS AND ARTS COMMUNITY. Dr. Barry H. Stevens‘ practice is limited to endodontic (root canal) care.

Located in historic Riverside at the corner of Park and Stockton, the First Coast Endodontics’ warm and attentive team provide diagnosis and therapy with state-of-the-art techniques in a comfortable and professional atmosphere.

In addition to his extensive education, Dr. Stevens is a past president of the Northeast District Dental Association and the Jacksonville Dental Society. He has served on the delegations of the Florida Dental Association and the American Dental Association, and the boards of directors for the Florida Dental Health Foundation, FLADPAC and DENTPAC. Dr. Stevens is a Fellow of the American College of Dentists and the International College of Dentists.

He is a member of The Pierre Fauchard Honorary Dental Academy, The American Association of Endodontists and The Florida Association of Endodontists

About Dr. Stevens: EDUCATION

CERTIFICATION

B.S. Tulane University D.D.S. New York University College of Dentistry

Albert Einstein Medical Center (Endodontic Certification)

connect: 100 Professional Drive Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 (904) 285-8407 PVPDental.com 11512 Lake Mead Ave., Unit 523 Jacksonville, Florida 32256 (904) 731-0311 Maples-Dental.com

First Coast Endodontics

2365 Park St., Jacksonville, Fl. 32204 • (904) 388-1220

ADVERTISING FEATURE

FirstCoastEndo.com

Rick K. Harrison, DMD, PA Jax Beach Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

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FTER RECEIVING A BACHELOR DEGREE IN SCIENCE FROM JACKSONVILLE UNIVERSITY, Dr. Rick Harrison graduated from Louisville School of Dentistry with his Doctor of Medical Dentistry Degree. He is Invisalign certified and attends continuing education classes in all phases of dentistry to stay up-to-date on current trends. In addition to providing routine dental care, Dr. Harrison provides several cosmetic options—from porcelain crowns to Invisalign orthodontics—and a number of whitening services.

Dr. Harrison is committed to earning the trust of his patients and he strives for continuous improvement at all levels. His aim is to exceed your expectations.

connect: 227 11th Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 (904) 241-4237 JaxBeachDentist.com

Leah K. Lovett, DMD

River City Dental • Island Grove Dental

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R. LEAH K. LOVETT, ALONG WITH HER EXCEPTIONAL TEAM AT RIVER CITY DENTAL AND ISLAND GROVE DENTAL are dedicated to providing high quality general and cosmetic dental care to their local community. “We really do have a genuine care and concern for our patients,” states Dr. Lovett. “Our patients know that.

From the moment they are greeted at the front desk, to the gentle, thorough care they receive from the hygienists to the personalized care the receive from the assistants— people are what sets our office apart.”

Dr. Leah Lovett obtained her D.M.D. from the University of Florida College of Dentistry in 2006. In 2011, Dr. Lovett opened River City Dental, in the River City Marketplace, and in 2021, Island Grove Dental, in Fernandina Beach. Dr. Lovett holds memberships in the ADA, FDA, and Academy of General Dentistry. Attention to detail, integrity, and care and concern for her patient’s well-being are the fundamental values of her practices, and she is honored to be considered among Jacksonville’s elite group of dentists.

connect: RIVER CITY DENTAL 510 Airport Center Drive, Ste. 101, Jacksonville, FL 32218 • 904-683-7079 ISLAND GROVE DENTAL 96425 Pine Grove Road Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 • 904-775-7711 ADVERTISING FEATURE

Excuse me, doctor...

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sking questions to your dental professional is an important part of one’s long-term healthcare. Here are four common dental questions you might ask at your next appointment.

should I Use Mouthwash Regularly?

It depends. There are different kinds of mouthwash.

Cosmetic mouthwashes aim to freshen breath and to maintain a healthy teeth color, but they contain fluoride to help fight cavities as well. Therapeutic rinses work to help treat conditions such as gingivitis, tooth sensitivity, and inflammation. For more advanced conditions, prescription mouthwashes often contain chlorhexidine gluconate to kill bacteria that cause bleeding, inflammation, and plaque or biofilm formation.

At What Age Should My Child First See a Dentist? Studies show children can develop their first cavities by two years old, so the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends booking the first visit once their first tooth appears—or, at the latest, their first birthday. This helps your dentist catch potential problems that can affect your child’s overall health and well-being as more teeth grow in over time.

When Do Baby Teeth Typically Fall Out? Most children begin losing their baby teeth between the ages of six and eight. They typically fall out in roughly the same order in which they grew. Keep in mind that all patients are different. Children and adult oral conditions depend on how long they’ve gone without an appointment, how long a child’s baby teeth last, and what kinds of things to which you are naturally more sensitive.

Why Should I Have Dental X-Rays Taken?

Your dentist should take a full set of dental X-rays early into the doctor-patient relationship. X-rays help your doctor monitor any changes that could be happening in your teeth between appointments. Most adult patients have bitewing X-rays every year and a full mouth series every four to five years. But those with a higher risk for dental caries problems may need them every six to 18 months. u Source: Colgate Global Scientific Communications

LIGHT NIGHT the

Second annual Halloween Lanterns Festival draws sell-out crowds to the Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens | PHOTOS BY JOAN H. WALKER AND SAMANTHA FITZGERALD

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early 1,000 people turned out each evening of October 27 and 28 for the return of a seasonal celebration that embraces family, color, light and nature. The woodsy trails of the 120-acre Jacksonville Arboretum were aglow with yellow, orange, red and green lanterns carried by young and old. Imagine the forest filled with colorful fireflies— that’s exactly what this natural treasure in Arlington resembled for two nights. It was a fitting scene leading up to Halloween.

The event doubled as a fundraiser for the Arboretum and a way to help spread the word about its valuable mission and value to Jacksonville and Northeast Florida. If you weren’t able to make it this year, we’ll be back again in 2024. We hope to see you there. Till then, enjoy these images of some of the faces and fun you missed. u

Thank you to all the festival participants and sponsors including: CjJs Kettle Corn Guanabana Ice Pops Dagwoods Roaming Roanan Viva Mi Familia Brazilicious Dream Dogs Manifest Distilling Cocktails of Sweetness Y?Entertainment Holly Blanton EzEventRide American Electric SWCA Environmental Consultants Standard Feed and Seed Meyer Najem Construction bestbet SE Grocers

And the many Volunteers who helped make this event possible!

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CASA

BLANCO

A recently completed residence shies away from bold colors.

Instead, the designer and homeowners focused on how the family would live in and love the spaces, both inside and out.

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ost professional interior designers will say they enjoy creating, exploring new ideas, and experimenting with new materials. However, when it comes to the business, most would agree that having a client who has a pre-determined vision is overwhelming preferred than working with someone who has vague thoughts about the appearance of the finished project. Meghan Besore, owner and design director for Pavé & Co., recently had the opportunity to complete a residential project where the clients arrived ready to go with firm concepts in mind.

Completed in the summer of 2022, the house covers approximately 4,600 square feet with four bedrooms and four-and-a-half baths, as well as a home office and bonus room. The interior is decidedly monochromatic. The choice of soft white throughout was intentional. “The homeowner came to us with a very clear vision and we were happy to help her make it come to life,” says Besore. “We were contracted

with the homeowner during the new construction phase of the project to help with finishes and the overall design plan.”

Inspired by the contemporary interiors of the 1 Hotel in Miami Beach, the homeowners knew what they liked and set out to bring it to their new residence. “We knew our style immediately,” says Georgina Leininger.

“I loved that we were able to put our own spin on it and achieve exactly what we wanted. We love a clean and classic look that will stand the test of time.”

In the kitchen, the countertops and custom hood received the most attention during the design stages. A honed Quartzite was selected for the countertops and instead of tile, Venetian plaster finished the kitchen range hood, a nod to the stone fireplace in the living room. “We wanted to bring natural elements to the space with Quartzite counters and wood beams on the ceiling and the plaster finishes,” says Besore.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY POLINA PIGULEVSKY

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Lighting was particularly important to the homeowners.

“It was among the first items I chose for the house and believe it truly makes each space,” says Georgina.

“When tied together, even in an open concept design, they all complement each other.”

Must haves for the homeowners? Too many to name, laughs Georgina. “A wine wall display was important for us for entertaining. We also spend most of our time outside and knew being on the water would only add to that,” she says. “We wanted to create an outdoor living space that would accommodate that.

Also, we wanted a larger laundry room with custom drying racks. Doing laundry has become my all-time favorite chore. Oh, and a laundry shoot from upstairs to make it even simpler.”

The decisions about lighting were paramount to both the homeowner and designer. Lighting fixtures were among the first items chosen for each interior space.

Every fixture was well thought out, including selecting a variety different textures and styles that, when tied together in the home’s open floor plan design, they complement one another.

“I love our upstairs balcony off the bonus room.

Being on the water and having the view, I never want

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With a laundry room this beautiful, it’s no surprise doing laundry has become Georgina’s favorite chore.

“We believe in less is more, but we did have some fun with the tile choices throughout the bathroom spaces,” she says.

to feel like I am missing anything. When I am upstairs with the kiddos we get the best of both. Our architect did an amazing job of learning who we were and what was important to us,” says Georgina.

Another significant consideration when planning the home’s overall design was the family’s love of entertaining. Cooking outdoors, grilling and smoking is a passion. So, the architect designed a space

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off the back of porch that features a dedicated barbecue smoking room that is separate from the outdoor kitchen and pool area. And what a pool it is.

“We had a very similar design at our last home but decided to raise the hot tub to create a unique element, to produce an ‘infinity edge’ effect, but also have a better view of boat traffic going by the house,” says Georgina. “We also love the simple design with

“The homeowner came to us with a very clear vision,” say Besore.

“We were happy to help her make it come to life.”

small coping surrounded by turf. The turf it made it easy to include a putting green, which adds another element for entertaining.

trast the white exterior. The natural element of the tongue and groove tied in our goal to bring some of those interior elements out.” u

“We knew we didn’t want to keep it too simple with one exterior look. We decided to incorporate a mixture of brick, plank siding as well as shaker,” Georgina continues. “We chose to do exposed rafter tails to add a different element with a pop off color to con-

CREDITS: Construction: Coastal Oaks Construction Architect: Wallace Brown, Imagine Architectural Designs Interior finishes: Meghan Besore, Pavé & Co Cabinetry: Johnson’s Custom Cabinetry

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HOME DESIGN QUARTERLY

Easy Being Green The holidays are prime season for thinking sustainability and environmental responsibility.

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ne of the most cherished traditions during the holiday season is decorating our homes with festive ornaments, lights, and greenery. However, as we become more conscious of our impact on the environment, it’s essential to consider sustainable options for our holiday decorations. Embracing eco-friendly practices can make your Christmas not only beautiful but also environmentally responsible. James Mellan-Matulewicz, creative director at sustainable interior brand Bobbi Beck, shares ten tips to help you decorate sustainably this holiday season:

them a fresh, festive look. A coat of eco-friendly paint, some ribbons, or a bit of imagination can transform old decorations into something new and exciting.

LED Lights and Energy Efficiency When it comes to holiday lighting, opt for energy-efficient LED lights.

LED lights consume significantly less energy and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. You can also use timers or smart plugs to schedule when your lights turn on and off, reducing unnecessary energy consumption.

Choose Natural and Biodegradable Materials Opt for decorations made from natural and biodegradable materials, such as wood, paper, and organic fabrics. These materials have a lower environmental impact compared to plastic or synthetic decorations. Look for wooden ornaments, recycled paper garlands, and fabric-based decor items to create a charming and sustainable ambiance.

Decorate with Edible Items Incorporate edible decorations into your holiday setup. String popcorn or cranberries to create natural garlands, and hang gingerbread cookies or dried citrus slices as ornaments. After the holiday season, you can compost or consume these decorations, minimizing waste.

DIY Ornaments and Decorations Get creative and make your own ornaments and decorations. This not only adds a personal touch to your holiday decor but also allows you to control the materials used. You can repurpose items you already have at home or gather natural elements like pinecones, twigs, and dried leaves to create beautiful and unique decorations.

Rent or Borrow Decorations Consider renting or borrowing decorations for the holiday season. This is especially useful for larger items like Christmas trees, which can be reused year after year. Sharing decorations within your community reduces the demand for new products and minimises your environmental footprint.

Upcycle and Repurpose Before rushing out to buy new decorations, take a look at what you already have. Consider repurposing or upcycling existing items to give

Minimalism and Intentional Design Embrace a minimalist approach to decorating, focusing on quality over quantity. Select a few key pieces that hold sentimental value or

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contribute significantly to your holiday aesthetic. Intentional design allows you to create a beautiful and visually appealing space without overwhelming it with excess decorations.

Sustainable Tree Options If you prefer a real Christmas tree, look for sustainably grown options or consider tree rental programs. Alternatively, invest in a high-quality artificial tree that can be used for many years, reducing the need for yearly tree purchases.

Waste Reduction and Recycling Ensure that any decorations you purchase are recyclable or made from recycled materials. Additionally, commit to proper waste disposal after the holiday season. Separate and recycle materials as much as possible, and donate or repurpose items you no longer need.

Support Local and Eco-Friendly Artisans When buying new decorations, support local artists and businesses that prioritize sustainability. Handcrafted, locally made decorations often have a lower carbon footprint and contribute to your local economy.

By incorporating these tips into your holiday decorating routine, you can enjoy a festive and visually appealing Christmas while making environmentally responsible choices. Embracing sustainability during the holiday season is a gift to both the planet and future generations, ensuring the magic of the holidays for years to come.

Sounds like a very Merry Christmas to us. u

Home For the Holiday When finished in 1886, the Stetson Mansion in Deland was one of the grandest homes ever constructed in Florida. The Gilded Age winter estate of famed hat maker and philanthropist John B. Stetson embraced the times and its owner spared no expense creating a 19th Century masterpiece. Railroad magnate and friend Henry Flagler built a private railway spur to the estate so that the finest building materials, furniture and art could be delivered direct to the site.

Thomas Edison oversaw the installation of the electric service.

The home and grounds are spectacular year-round, with its rare and intricate parquet wood floors and 10,000 panes of original leaded glass windows; however, it truly shines during the holiday. The property isn’t a museum but remains a private residence, one that opens its doors to guests for its Christmas Spectacular holiday home tours, beginning in November and continuing through January 20.

Tickets range from $15 to $38 for guided and self-guided tours, which last 90 and 70 minutes respectively. Visitors may tour the first and second floors including ten rooms embellished with elaborate designer decorations and over 30 nativities from around the world. Outside the mansion, the original School House has been converted into a Zen like guest cottage/gift shop. Reservations are required for admission. u

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HOME DESIGN QUARTERLY

Coming Soon National real estate firm identifies the emerging home design trends and what buyers will be looking for in 2024.

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illow has unveiled its data-driven predictions for the features and design elements poised to transform homes and dominate social media feeds in 2024. From the raw appeal of brutalist design (concrete floors, anyone?) to the delicate artistry of glass chandeliers, these emerging home trends highlight new post-pandemic pastimes and a nostalgia for the design of decades past.

To discern these trends, Zillow looked at nearly 300 home features and design styles mentioned in for-sale listing descriptions, then identified the keywords showing up far more frequently than a year ago.

“When certain keywords appear in a rising share of listings, it’s a signal that today’s home buyers may be gravitating toward those features,” says Amanda Pendleton, Zillow’s home trends expert. “Real estate agents are uniquely attuned to subtle changes in what buyers want, and they often get a first look at the latest and greatest features going into newly built homes. Savvy listing agents will highlight those trending, in-demand features when marketing a home for sale.”

It is important to note that while the share of listings mentioning a particular trend may be growing, the absolute percentage of listings that mention these features remains very low. That’s why Zillow included expert analysis along with changes in listing keyword frequency to identify the six home trends poised to make waves in the new year, and three trends heading out of style. So, among the home design trends to keep eye out for next year are: BRUTALISM. Characterized by raw, exposed materials, this mid-20th-

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Century design style is primed to continue its comeback in 2024. Zillow has seen a 452% increase in the share of for-sale listings mentioning brutalist design. Brutalist-inspired features, such as blackened steel casement windows, raw concrete floors and jagged patinated bronze light fixtures, read as modern, functional and sustainable. This style’s stripped-back interiors act as a blank canvas, making them appealing to minimalists or to creative homeowners who want to furnish them according to their personal style. Those who aren’t quite ready to embrace this stark style can bring in accessories such as wrought iron candleholders and tarnished brass trays to give their home a subtle edge.

SENSORY GARDENS OR PATHWAYS. Sensory gardens have been surging in popularity, with homeowners and home buyers prioritizing functional and beautiful outdoor space as a way to reconnect with nature. Listings mentioning sensory gardens or pathways are up 314% compared to last year. Sensory gardens are designed to engage all five senses and are believed to have therapeutic benefits. They incorporate a variety of plants, textures, colors, scents, sounds and edible elements, such as herbs or produce.

COLD PLUNGE POOLS. Move over, hot tubs. Cold plunge pools are the hottest wellness trend of 2024, touted by influencers as a way to improve circulation and reduce inflammation. The share of listings on Zillow that feature an at-home cold plunge pool is up 130% compared to last year. Once an invigorating amenity reserved for spas and luxury listings, DIY-friendly cold plunge tubs are making this wellness practice accessible to almost anyone looking for a quick endorphin boost and adrenaline rush.

HOME DESIGN QUARTERLY PICKLEBALL COURTS. Game on! This fast-paced paddle sport is becoming a sought-after amenity in backyards and neighborhoods.

Nationwide, pickleball mentions are up 64% on Zillow compared to last year. “Pickleball courts have become a great selling feature because they appeal to athletes of all ages,” says Joy Kim Metalios, a Zillow Premier Agent partner. “I’ve seen homeowners converting their driveways into courts by using portable nets. Players with ultra-luxury homes are painting new pickleball lines on their sport courts or tennis courts. Since pickleball is such a social sport, an athome court has become the latest entertaining feature, like an outdoor kitchen or a pizza oven.”

MURANO GLASS CHANDELIERS. Classic Murano glass chandeliers are the ultimate bespoke light fixture. These handcrafted pieces of art from the island of Murano in Italy are reemerging as a designer favorite, channeling the glamor of decades past. These intricate, quirky and often colorful fixtures are now being featured 58% more often in listings on Zillow.

Nestled on 1.7 acres, this custom built home in Ponte Vedra Beach offers 7BR 8BA, a separate guest house, resort like backyard, spa like primary suite, an oversized 8 car garage and much more! Contact me for a private showing.

MURALS. Homeowners and home buyers are saying so long to bland in favor of personality-packed homes. Eclectic, maximalist interiors are increasingly featuring statement-making murals that dial up the drama in a living room, dining room or bedroom. Murals are showing up 18% more often in for-sale homes on Zillow, and they’re more accessible than ever. Wallpaper murals are now readily available and depict all types of scenes, from large-scale landscapes to modern botanicals. u

TONY & LORI ASHWORTH www.ashworthteam.com | 612.998.8299 (phone/text)

GATHER ROUND Timed perfectly for the holiday season, “The Art of Gathering” is the theme to this year’s First Coast Design Show.

The fundraising event benefitting Wolfson Children’s Hospital takes place December 1-3 at the Prime Osborn Convention Center. The 2023 iteration continues the tradition of welcoming upscale art and antique dealers and designers from across the Southeast.

“The First Coast Design Show includes beloved antiques, art and garden dealers from around the region, inspiring vignettes from talented interior designers and immersive events,” says Kendra McCrary, president of event host the Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital. Among the two dozen assembled fine arts and antiques vendors are 13th Colony Arts from Atlanta, Mayfair Design from St. Simons Island and La Poma & La Poma from Franklin, North Carolina.

On Friday, the show opens in the morning with lectures by designers Angie Hranowsky and Melanie Turner. Also, there will be a flower workshop and the popular “Booth Crawl” with designer Juli Catlin. Later that evening, the Opening Night Gala features dinner and dancing amongst beautifully curated antiques and art. The next day, lectures include designer and lifestyle expert Danielle Rollins and artist Aldous Bertram (pictured). In addition, there will be a table setting experience and a cocktail demonstration.

Show hours are 10 AM to 3 PM on December 1, and 10 AM to 4 PM on December 2-3. General admission is $15 and provides access to the antiques, art and garden dealers. Lunch is served in the Tea Room, and afternoon coffee and baked goods are available at the Pastry Café. u 120 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

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Think Pink The summetime box office smash movie Barbie raked in over $1 billion in ticket sales and got millions reliving their childhoods and loving the color pink. From clothing to furnishing to home accessories, pink has been in bloom everywhere, including interior designers and brands such as Rachel Cannon (pictured), Stout Textiles and Bassett McNab. U.S. search interest in “Barbie pink” in the home and garden categories more than quadrupled this summer, a tenyear high according to Google Trends data. Sorry, Ken. It’s still Barbie’s world.

Luxury Appeal The options for finishing a bathroom are practically unlimited, from tile to fixtures to lighting. One product aims to give people more choices from which to choose. The Wetwall waterproof wall panel system provides an easy and affordable way to transform any bathroom into an upscale space. “The entire Wetwall colleciton is designed to bring a wow factor to bathrooms with wall panels that are easy to install and maintain, and offer the sophisticated looks that homeowners and designers seek,” says Kimberly Watson, vice president at Wilsonart. “Our newest designs are inspired by the beauty of nature with warm marble and woodgrain looks that create a luxurious look and feel.”

GOOD BUY Think it’s becoming expensive to purchase a home in Northeast Florida? It is, kind of. When compared to some of our South Florida neighbors, our little corner remains a bargain.

Year to date, Miami Beach has reached a record median price of $5.5 million, marking a six percent increase over 2022, according to a recent real estate report by PropertyShark. Key Biscayne comes in with the second most expensive zip code in Florida, with a $1.4 million median, followed closely by Coral Gables at $1.39 million. In the six-country First Coast region, the median sales price of single-family homes at summer’s end was $379,500 ($330,000 in Duval, $536,493 in St. Johns).

“Active listings are up 10% over the region, which allows buyers to shop through more housing inventory,” says Northeast Florida Association of Realtors president Diana Galavis. “The month’s supply of inventory is up 30% from last month (September), while pending sales have decreased from last month, which is a direct reflection of the increase in interest rates.” u

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hot seats

The Fish Company

1928 Cuban Bistro Family-run establishment specializes in authentic Cuban cuisine, baked goods and cafe con leche. House specialties include guava and cheese pastries, chicken, beef and ham and cheese empanadas, and congri bowls made with white rice and black beans topped with choice of braised chicken or roasted pork. Of course, the Cuban sandwich (roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard on warm bread) is a top seller. Flan, churros and tres leches for dessert. 3928 Baymeadows Rd., Baymeadows (683-8104); 160 Shops Blvd., St. Johns (209-5162); 6331 Roosevelt Blvd., 6331 Roosevelt Blvd., Ortega 1928bistro.com. B ,L, $$.

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GUIDE to the GUIDE: B–Breakfast; L–Lunch; D–Dinner; SB–Sunday Brunch $–$10 or less; $$–$11 to $20; $$$–$21 to $30; $$$$–$31 or above These $ categories are based on the average cost of a dinner entrée excluding drinks, desserts and/or gratuities.

NOTE: Some restaurant entrée prices do not include à la carte sides or salad. All phone numbers are in the (904) area code. Cafeterias, fast food joints and primarily take-out restaurants are not eligible for inclusion.

PHOTO BY ANDREW VARNES

Jacksonville Magazine offers a select list of area restaurants as a service to its readers. The directory does not include every restaurant in town. It does, however, feature many of the magazine’s Top 50 choices of musttry eateries, as well as a sampling of other notable Northeast Florida dining establishments. Suggestions are welcome. Please contact us at mail@jacksonvillemag.com.

Alhambra Theatre & Dining Alhambra serves up dinner and a show inside its performance hall.

Formerly a buffet service, the Alhambra is becoming known as much for its culinary experience as it is for its Broadway-caliber productions. The nation’s oldest continuously operating dinner theater showcases famous plays such as Legally Blonde (September 28-November 5), Miracle on 34th Street (November 16-December 24). 12000 Beach Blvd., Southside (641-1212; alhambrajax.com). L, D, SB, $$$.

Al’s Pizza This home-grown string of pizza joints offers a wide selection of appetizers and New York-style pizza, alongside traditional Italian dishes, Al’s menu includes unexpected items like mussels in wine and garlic butter sauce to satisfy the adventurous foodies out there. They also offer delivery for those in the area of their restaurants. Four locations including 8060 Philips

Jackso nville’s Largest Curated Co llection of

Hwy., Southside (731-4300; alspizza.com), L, D, $.

Aqua Grill

Bourbon & Whisk ey

Aqua Grill has a contemporary, eclectic menu with a coastal flair made from local ingredients. The Ponte Vedra eatery is known for its top-of-the line service and has been featured on both Jax Mag’s Top 50 Restaurants and Best in Jax lists for many years. 395 Front St., Ponte Vedra Beach (2853017; aquagrill.net). L, D, $$$.

bb’s Restaurant & Bar Bb’s specializes in New American fare and treats, giving comfort food an upscale presentation. Menu items include yellowfin tuna tartare and ancho-spiced rotisserie turkey. They also boast an international cheese selection and top-notch desserts. 1019 Hendricks Ave., San Marco (306-0100; bbsrestaurant.com). L, D, SB, $$.

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This neighborhood landmark for more than two decades specializes in innovative updates on old favorites, like meatloaf served with apricot marinara sauce and duck confit pizza (dinner specials change daily). The dessert case is legendary. Casual. 3556 St. Johns Ave., Avondale (387-2060; biscottis.net).

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1700 3rd St., Jacksonville Beach (518-3915) thebeardedpigbbq.com. L, D $$.

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A pair of casual barbecue spots (complete with an oversized chalkboard wall for kids and plenty of TVs) serves turkey, chicken, brisket, pulled pork and the like, counter-style. Owners Chad Munsey and Michael Schmidt both have fine dining backgrounds, so even the standard fare is a bit more grown up than what you might expect at a “Q” joint. And though it’s a meat-fest, there’s truly something for everyone: all of the sides (slaw, collards, mac-n-cheese) are vegetarian. 1224 Kings Ave., San Marco (619-2247);

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Full Service Catering 904.524.8952

Blue Bamboo This restaurant (relocated from the Southside) serves hip, Asian cuisine with a wine lounge and patio dining. Menu items include miso-marinated salmon, Cantonese orange duck, Ahi tuna salad and Mandarin orange cake. 10110 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin (646-1478; bluebamboojacksonville. com). L, D, $$.

Blue Orchid Blue Orchid Thai serves authentic Asian fare made with traditional ingredients like Thai basil, palm sugar, and kaffir lime leaves. Their pad Thai and dynamite chicken are house favorites. 13475 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville (7231300; blueorchid.menu). L, D, $$.

Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q Meat is the draw at Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q, which has been pit-smoking everything from turkey to pork since 1949. Try the Slawpy Pig, a heaping pile of pulled pork topped with coleslaw and served with sides such as fried corn on the cob, collard greens, or Brunswick stew. Multiple locations (8808310; bonosbarbq.com). L, D, $.

Caffé Andiamo A copper pizza oven highlights this stylish eatery specializing in frutti di mare, pollo paisano, vongole Positano, and homemade Italian sausage.

Caffe Andiamo compliments their Italian fare with a vast wine selection and exudes a modern and relaxing vibe. 225 Village Main St., Ponte Vedra Beach (280-2299; caffeandiamo-pvb.com). L, D, $$.

Casa Reina Taqueria & Tequila Located just steps from the historic Bridge of Lions in the heart of Downtown St. Augustine, the new upscale Mexican/Florida Coastal eaterie speciallizes in street tacos and enchiladas as well as short rib, chiles rellenos and tequila lime grouper. Nearly 100 tequilas on offer. 1 Anderson Cir., St. Augustine (295-3847; casareinastaug.com). L, D, $$.

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ChopHouse Thirteen Formerly The Tree Steakhouse, this restaurant offers a sleek, chic dining room. Along with their grilled steaks of 100% Angus beef, they also serve seafood and feature a conditioned wine room with ample variety. 11362 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin (262-0006; chophouse13.com).

L,D, $$$.

Private Dining for Parties

Gift Certificates Available

City Grille & Raw Bar New arrival to the San Marco area dining scene features an upscale setting and a menu laden with seafood, steak and seasonal specialties, as well as an extensive wine list with labels from around the globe. 1314 Prudential Dr., Southbank (398-8989, citygrillerawbar.com).

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Coastal Wine Market & Tasting Room

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The Recupito Family Invites You To Enjoy…

Contemporary Italian Fare with Traditional Fresh Ingredients

A standout in Nocatee’s growing collection of dining spots and shops, the interior is dressed in warm woods, hightop tables, the most breathtaking chandelier you've ever seen, and more bottles of reds, whites and sparkling wines than one could count. New menu additions include Marcona Almond Crusted Goat Cheese & Fig Spread, Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce, and Angus Beef Sliders with Firecracker Sauce. Wines sold by the glass, bottle and three-tasting flights. 641 Crosswater Pkwy., Suite B, Nocatee Town Center (395-3520, coastalwinemarket.com). D, $$.

Coop 303 Coop 303 is known for its regional cuisine featuring hot honey-glazed salmon, chicken and waffles and pulled pork sliders. But the Beaches Town Center restaurant also features local seafood dishes, and is home to the eight-piece fried chicken basket. Coop also has plenty of spots to hang out and sip their signature cocktails: community tables; alcove booths; a front porch; a rooftop garden; and an upstairs parlor. 303 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (372-4507; coop303.com). L, D, SB, $$.

Open for Lunch & Dinner | caffeandiamo-pvb.com | 904.280.2299 225 Village Main Street, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

A Jax Beach Icon for 20+ Years

Costa Brava Situated in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, Costa Brava is the signature restaurant of the Casa Monica Resort and Spa. An extensive menu covers much culinary territory, with an emphasis on seafood and local ingredients. Dinner starters include items such as Florida little neck clams and Georgia peach salad. Entrées are highlighted by crab-crusted red snapper, grilled beef tenderloin, and peppercorn-crusted short ribs. Save room for the spiced chocolate cake. Be sure to enjoy cocktails in the Cobalt Lounge. Private dining room available. 95 Cordova St., St. Augustine (819-6018, KesslerCollection.com/costa-brava-restaurant). B, L, D, $$.

Cowford Chophouse Spread over three levels in a restored building near the foot of the Main Street Bridge, Cowford is an upscale restaurant/rooftop bar combo that specializes in hand-cut steaks and seafood. The menu is flush with items such as tuna tartare, roasted bone marrow and foie gras. A raw bar serves oysters, shrimp cocktail and caviar. For the main course, diners choose between dishes such as bone-in ribeyes and Maine lobster.

101 E. Bay St., Downtown (862-6464). D, $$$$.

Cruisers Grill For more than 20 years, beachgoers have looked to Cruisers Grill for their signature burger and cheese fries served with ranch dressing.

Grilled chicken, country fried steak, turkey and melted Swiss—the sandwich lineup is tops. They offer all the classics, plus newer options like a house-made fried bologna sandwich. 319 23rd Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach (270-0356). L, D, $.

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e’re proud be Jacksonville Jacksonville e’re proud totobe Beach’s hometown choice for for Beach’s hometown choice casual classics.

Guests love laid-back casual classics. Guests loveourour laid-back atmosphere, friendly service, and of atmosphere, friendly service, and of course, our tasty menu!

course, our tasty menu!

Pablo Plaza | 319 23rd Avenue South | Jacksonville Beach, FL

Pablo Plaza | 319 23rd | Jacksonville Beach, FL (904)Avenue 270-0356 South | cruisersgrill.com (904) 270-0356 | cruisersgrill.com

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Straight from Limerick, Ireland, the four sisters who operate the city’s two Culhane’s pubs draw legions of regulars with classics such as Scotch Eggs and Guinness Beef Stew. Bangers N’ Mash, Corned Beef N’ Cabbage, Shepherd’s Pie, Irish Cheese-Crusted Cod—the flavors of the Emerald Isle live here. Full bar. 967 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (249-9595); 9720 Deer Lake Ct., Southside (619-3177), culhanesirishpub. com. L, D, SB, $$

Eleven South Bistro This upscale eatery features an extensive wine list, mesquite wood grill and outdoor patio. Seafood martini, lobster mac and cheese, miso-glazed Chilean sea bass and mesquite-grilled certified Angus beef tenderloin highlight the menu. 216 11th Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach (241-1112;elevensouth.com). L, D, $$$$.

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HOT SEATS

SIDE DISH

HELL OF AN IDEA It was 50 years ago that Lynyrd Skynyrd released its groundbreaking debut album, a record that would push the Southern rock sound to radio and stereo speakers around the world. To help commemorate the occasion and pay tribute to the band’s roots, a new brand of American Whiskey debuted earlier this year. Hell House Whiskey, named after the North Florida cabin where the band’s three original founding members—Ronnie Van Zant, Gary Rossington and Allen Collins—dedicated themselves day and night to create legendary songs such as “Free Bird” and “Sweet Home Alabama.” Led by current members Johnny Van Zant and Rickey Medlocke, Lynyrd Skynyrd continues to perform, including two recent shows in St. Augustine.

“There’s nothing like getting out there, playing a great show with Skynyrd, seeing people love this music, and now being able to raise a glass of our very own Hell House Whiskey together,” says Van Zant. “It’s a toast to the timeless spirit of rock and roll.” Play it again, Johnny u

Scoop, There It Is The cooler weather of autumn hasn’t cooled Northeast Florida’s appetite for ice cream. In fact, the region recently welcomed an array of new flavors. Dr. Bombay Ice Cream, founded by rapper and media mogul Snoop Dog, launched a collection new flavors including Rollin’ In the Dough and S’More Vibes. Four of Snoop’s flavors are now for sale in local Winn-Dixie stores.

In addition, local ice cream maker Mayday is tempting tastebuds with the return of eight season flavors. Great Pumpkin, Caramel Apple, Dirty Chai and the others will be scooped at the 12 Mayday shops for a limited time. We’ll take the Blackberry Crisp in a waffle cone, please.

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Brotherly Love “Growing up, we always pushed each other to run faster, train harder, and part of that was ensuring we were eating the right foods to win,” says Florida Gators running back Trevor Etienne. One can imagine Trevor and brother Travis, running back for the Jacksonville Jaguars, ate quite a bit while growing up in Louisiana. The brothers recently teamed up to be part of a national marketing campaign for Chipotle. “As Trevor’s big bro, I take pride in setting the pace, but his work ethic has pushed me to be better too,” says Travis. Travis’s favorite order? The burrito bowl with chicken, white rice, black beans and cheese. Same for Trevor, but hold the beans and add salsa and shredded lettuce. Side or chips and queso with that, fellas? u

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HOT SEATS

Ember & Iron

wine, and desserts. 7643 Gate Pkwy., Jacksonville (996-7557; jjbistro.com/

An 8-foot oak-burning grill is the heart of the kitchen, searing and smoking house specialties such as lemon and herb roasted fish, ribeyes and seared salmon. Brunch favorites include buttermilk chicken, cast iron French toast and steak and eggs Benedict. 60 Shops Blvd.,

JJ’s Liberty Bistro

#80., St. Johns (531-5185; emberandiron.com). D, SB, $$$.

The Fish Company With a crowded raw bar and a wide variety of locally caught seafood, The Fish Co. offers a little something for everyone. Chef Bill Pinner’s menu combines signature items like fried Mayport shrimp with favorite small plate dishes, changing weekly. The restaurant offers several specials throughout the week. 725-12 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (246-0123; thefishcojax.com). L, D. $$$.

Flying Iguana Taqueria & Tequila Bar As a tequila bar and grill located in Neptune Beach (and now in Avondale), the Flying Iguana represents one of the liveliest dining options in Duval. Specializing in Latin-American cuisine and expansive cocktail possibilities, the restaurant also hosts live music and has only one rule: Good Vibes Only. 207 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach (853-5680, flyingiguana.com); Iguana on Park, 3638 Park St., Avondale (834-8383, iguanaonpark. com). L, D, SB, $$

gateparkway). L, D, $$$.

Open since 1994, JJ’s Liberty Bistro is a family-run establishment offering one of the largest selections of wine in Jacksonville. The restaurant hosts frequent wine dinners featuring some of the largest wine producers around the world, including Chateau L’Angelus, Veuve Clicquot, and Plumpjack. You’ll find hundreds of different bottles in the retail store, as well as the finest cheeses, caviars, and homemade desserts. Stop by the ice cream and chocolate/macaron shop located just next door. 330 A1A N., Suite 209, Ponte Vedra (273-7980; jjbistro.com/ponte-vedra). L, D, $$$.

Le Petit Paris Café A little slice of France in the River City, the chef-owned establishment specializes in toasted croissants, quiches and baguette sandwiches. Le Parisien is a classic French hand-held with ham, Swiss and salted butter.

The Le Flore salad is a must-try with smoked salmon, tzatiziki cream, cucumber, sun-dried tomatoes, dill and mixed greens. Sweets include fresh pastries, macaron and pound cakes. Don’t overlook the espresso or cappuccino. Market offers imported foods, condiments and beverages. Pet-friendly patio. 9965 San Jose Blvd., Suite 46, San Jose (512-7777, lepetitparisjax.com). B, L, $.

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille

Matthew’s Restaurant

There are a handful of Harry’s peppered around Florida, including a waterfront location in St. Augustine across from the Bridge of Lions. The eatery brings Louisiana flavor to the regional seafood scene, serving up Cajun and Creole dishes such as French-baked scallops, blackened redfish and crawfish étouffée. 46 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine (824-7765; hookedon-

(396-9922; matthewsrestaurant.com). D, $$$$.

harrys.com). L, D, $$.

JJ’s Bistro de Paris With delicious French food, a handpainted French mural, and a replica of the Eiffel Tower, customers feel as if they are relaxing at a bistro in Paris.

With a separate, yet just as talented pastry chef, you will find yourself indulging in the finest French desserts and pastries such as eclairs and fruit tarts. This one-of-a-kind restaurant offers the best of France in food,

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A fine-dining experience in historic San Marco. The menu is comprised of French and Mediterranean dishes crafted by Chef Alex Yim and also possesses a vast wine selection. Menu items include venison carpaccio, Maine diver scallops, and Osetra caviar. 2107 Hen­dricks Ave., San Marco

Restaurant Medure This restaurant features high-end favorites like escargot and caviar, while also making room for classics like meatloaf. Their menu features global cuisine with a local influence, ranging from handcrafted pasta to duck leg confit poutine. 818 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach (543-3797; restaurantmedure.com). D, $$$.

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HOT SEATS

PARTY SEEN

Foodie Fete

Some of the city’s most talented chefs gathered for the sixth annual A Taste of the Philippines the evening of October 19 at the Museum of Science & History. The rich culture, scents and flavors of the island nation floated through the museum as traditional and Filipino-American fusion cuisine was prepared by a dozen local culinary pros including Wesley Nogeira from Khloe’s Kitchen, Francis Cruz from Purple Roots and Jojo Hernandez from Abstrakt Filipino Essence. The sold-out event also featured an array of artwork and crafts from local vendors. A DJ on the upper floor kept more than 200 patrons entertained till late in the evening. Pass the lumpia, please. u

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SthePICE UP Holidays w

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HOT SEATS

Mellow Mushroom With more than 200 locations around the country, Mellow Mushroom has garnered a loyal following for its stone-baked pizza flavor combinations and for offering up craft beer, premium imports and local favorites.

Menu features baked chicken wings, spinach artichoke dip and a dozen house speciality pizzas. Multiple area locations: Avondale, Fleming Island, Southside, River City, Jacksonville Beach (mellowmushroom.com). L, D, $$.

Mezza Luna Ristorante

HAPPY HOUR: MON-FRI 3-6 PM SUNDAY BRUNCH: 10-2PM LUNCH MENU

GIFT CARD SEASON

Located in the heart of the Beaches Town Center, this long-time neighborhood favorite offers seating on their covered patio, formal dining room, and lounge that often hosts live music. The lengthy dinner menu includes Mediterranean favorites like linguine and clams, pan-seared bronzino and woodfired pizzas. 110 1st St., Neptune Beach (249-5573; mezzalunajax.com). D, $$$.

Midtown Table A culinary concept from the Medure Brothers, this Gate Parkway eatery specializes in all-things Italian. That means appetizers run the gamut from seasonal burrata to meatballs with house-made bread. Entrées include fresh pastas, Neapolitan pizza, and heartier fare (like pork marsala and salt-baked zucchini). 5016 Gate Pkwy., Jacksonville (503.4122; midtowntable.medurebrothers.com). L, D, $$.

Mojo Bar-B-Que

BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY!

This regional chain showcases Southern barbecue styles like Texas and North Carolina, including everything from burnt ends to pulled pork. Their restaurants celebrate blues, with their Avondale location boasting one of the city’s most expansive whiskey selections and their Jacksonville Beach location featuring live music. 1607 University Blvd. W., Lakewood (732-7200, mojobbq.com); 1500 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach (247-6636); 1810 Town Center Blvd., Fleming Island (264-0636); 3572 St. Johns Ave., Avondale (3816670); 5 Cordova St., St. Augustine (342-5264). L, D, $$.

Nineteen 131 1st Ave North, Jax Beach 32250 | 904-372-0537 THEOAXACACLUB.COM

Located inside the clubhouse at TPC Sawgrass, this fine-dining restaurant matches the high quality you would expect for a place that hosts The Players Championship. The menu is dominated by seafood and local fare, like lime pepper-crusted tuna and ribeye steak. The broad back patio overlooks the golf course. Sawgrass Clubhouse, Ponte Vedra Beach (273-3238; tpcsawgrass.com). B, L, D, $$.

O-Ku Sushi O-Ku offers upscale Japanese cuisine, a rooftop bar and patio and seafood from fish markets in Tokyo, Hawaii and here locally. Check out the chef specialties and small plates like tuna crudo, Agedashi tofu and O-Ku rock shrimp or just go straight for the rolls including Neptune’s Beard (shrimp tempura, avocado, spicy tuna, salmon, spicy aioli, sweet soy, chive) and the Firecracker (crispy panko fried roll with spicy salmon, avocado, cucumber, goat cheese mousse, sweet soy). 502 1st St. N., Jacksonville Beach (694-

1928 C UBAN BI STRO

2770, o-kusushi.com). D, $$$.

Restaurant Orsay An upscale French bistro with local, Southern flavor, meals at Restaurant Orsay are the epitome of a high-end dining experience. The chef-owned restaurant offers an extensive drink selection and some of the best oysters in the city, having won Best in Jax multiple times. 3630 Park St., Avondale (381-0909; restaurantorsay.com). D, SB, $$$$.

Peony Asian Bistro Known for their modern interpretations of classic Chinese dishes, their strip mall location belies the quality of their Cantonese-style plates and inviting atmosphere. Peony offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery. A must order is the peking duck. 10586 Old St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin (268-3889). L, D, $$.

Philly’s Finest When you call yourself Philly’s Finest, you better bring the Cheesesteak magic. For the love of Pat’s and Geno’s, they’ve been doing just that for two decades at the Jax Beach sandwich institution. American, mozzarella, and provolone cheeses, sautéed onions, mushrooms, pickles, sweet peppers, black olives, Cheese Whiz—each order can be customized to one’s liking for about $15. Order a side of the Old Bay fries, too. 1527 3rd St. N.,

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160 SHOPS BLVD. SAINT JOHNS, FL

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6331 ROOSEVELT BLVD. 1500 BEACH BLVD. 122 S EIGHTH ST. JACKSONVILLE, FL JAX BEACH, FL FERNANDINA BEACH, FL

Located at the end of Atlantic Blvd. in the heart of the Beaches lies a gourmet burger joint where you can experience an ample beer selection and the cool breeze of the ocean from their outside seating area. Each menu item is named after one of Edgar Allan Poe’s famous stories, including the Tell-Tale Heart, a half-pound bacon and cheddar burger topped off with a fried egg. 363 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (241-7637; poestavern.com). L,D, $.

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HOT SEATS

FEATURE

Karai Ramen Bistro

Bowled Over Discover the wonderfully loud, tasty and sometime messy world of ramen

BY JEFFREY SPEAR

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amen has been popular in America since the debut of Nissin’s Cup Noodles in 1973. Today, restaurants are offering considerably more upscale versions made with a host of Japanese ingredients including ajitsuke tamago (soy-marinated soft-boiled eggs), naruto (pinwheel fish cake), menma (fermented bamboo shoots), mayu (black garlic oil) and pork chashu (braised pork belly). In short, a relatively inexpensive bowl of noodles has been transformed into a gastronomic Japanese adventure. True to its roots, it is still a dish that you can slurp without apology.

of Japanese teas, beers and sakes is impressive, the uninitiated will find chef-recommended pairings alongside each item on the menu.

Whatever you choose, you’re in for a treat.

Should you find yourself in the Baymeadows area, make sure to visit Modu Ramen. Try their Korean kimchi pancakes, gimmari or the

In Jacksonville, ramen is made by several highly accomplished chefs operating from modest, yet inviting, dining spaces. Depending on where you go, this popular bowl of noodles can be enjoyed in many forms.

The perfect meal at Karai Ramen Bistro, located just west of the Intracoastal Waterway on Beach Boulevard, starts with a few Japanese small plates including gyoza, takoyaki and korokke, followed by your choice of Karai’s numerous ramen dishes. The eponymous house favorite, “Karai Ramen,” features noodles in a rich and spicy chicken and duck broth topped with spicy ground beef, scallions, red onions, minced garlic, onsen tamago and sesame seeds. While their selection

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Modu Ramen

HOT SEATS restaurant’s ever popular spicy Modu wings. If that’s too much, jump straight into a satisfying bowl of ramen brimming with house-made noodles. Choose from traditional tonkatsu, miso or shio ramen or get slightly more adventurous with their matcha ramen, tempura udon or kimchi shio ramen. Accompanied by any one of Modu’s numerous Japanese beers and sakes, the allure of Modu’s cuisine is irresistible.

Located on Atlantic Boulevard in Neptune Beach, Tokyo Ramen & Poke is everything you’d expect from an authentic Japanese noodle house and more. Starting with a broad selection of ramen, diners can also dive into a wide range of appetizers, poke bowls, sushi rolls and sushi burritos. Considering the variety of seafood on their menu, the seafood ramen, including tonkotsu broth, shrimp, squid, krab stick, mussels, ginger, corn, seaweed, egg, fish cake, green onion, bean sprouts, and menma, enjoyed with either beer or sake selected from their extensive menu of Japanese beverages, is a highly enjoyable and satisfying meal.

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Local Fish • Shrimp • Clams • Mussels • Oysters Crab: Snow • Alaska King • Dungeness • Stone (Seasonal) Homemade Soups & Salads • Desserts Family Owned & Operated Check our website for hours & special rewards

725-12 Atlantic Blvd. • 904.246.0123 • thefishcojax.com

Visitors to Iso Iso Ramen & Boba in Mandarin can enjoy Japanese ramen, Taiwanese boba and other Asian delights. While there are lots of choices, it is the ramen that keeps patrons coming back for more. Their signature Iso Iso Ramen, made with spicy creamy chicken broth topped with ground beef, half-marinated egg, naruto, corn, scallions, red onions, and sesame seeds, is one of the more popular options. If you’ve got a craving for sweets, you’ll enjoy their boba teas and slushes. From the Malibu Barbie slush, a fruity blend of coconut and strawberry, to the earthy matcha milk tea with sweet chocolate foam, there are sweet treats for everyone.

Macarons • Lavazza Coffee Fine Chocolates • Gelato

Another Mandarin-based ramen house, Umami Curry, offers noodles that break somewhat from tradition. While they offer all the classic ramen dishes, there are others influenced by Indian curries, albeit made without coconut milk and considerably milder. Not in the mood for

Jacksonville The Avenues Mall

Umami Curry

The Shoppes of Avondale

Ponte Vedra Beach The Shoppes at Ponte Vedra

Savannah Broughton Street Collection

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HOT SEATS noodles? Umami Curry offers rice dishes and sandos featuring many of the ingredients used in their ramen. Their hamburg curry rice, a hamburger patty topped with Japanese hamburg sauce, accompanied by fried potato, broccoli and fukujinzuke pickle served over rice, is particularly intriguing, as is their chicken katsu sando.

The next time you’re shopping at Jacksonville Town Center, take a meal break and head over to Domu. This lively ramen house offers all the classic varieties—their most popular being the Richie Rich made with a miso-shoyu pork bone broth, chashu, ajitama brulée, kikurage, scallion, fried garlic, black garlic oil and domudama. The restaurant also serve a tempting variety of appetizers, rice bowls and buns and maintains a full bar offering cocktails, sake, wine and both local and Japanese beers. Of note is their exceptional selection of Japanese whiskies. A good entry level spirit worth sampling is the lighter style Suntory Toki, while the Hibiki Harmony, a bit darker, is considered a quintessential Japanese whiskey. u

Domu

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Hey, Bartender It’s the end of a long week and you are ready to enjoy a few moment to relax and unwind. That thought was the driving force for author A.J. Dean’s Friday Night Cocktails: 52 Drinks to Welcome Your Weekend (Collective Book Studio, $27). The book is a compilation of wellmade but not fussy mixed drinks, adult libations that don’t require hardto-find ingredients.

“The key to a delicious cocktail is balance,” the author says. “With a little understanding of the roles of the main components—alcohol, water, sugar, bitters—you can begin to experiment on your own.” The recipes are organized by season as well as by month, so a reader can enjoy the perfect cocktail—say, a Sazerac, Rob Roy, Gibson Martini or Dirty Shirley—to match the weather. Bottoms up. u

HOT SEATS

Ragtime Tavern Open for more than 20 years, Ragtime is Northeast Florida’s oldest microbrewery. The menu is loaded with items like shrimp bruschetta, Louisiana crawfish and sautéed mussels. Try the bistro filet and crab-stuffed shrimp, Cajun fettuccine or the sesame tuna. 207 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (241-7877; ragtimetavern.com). L, D, SB, $$.

River & Post Rooftop bars are popping up all over Northeast Florida. Arguably one of the best can be enjoyed at River & Post. The restaurant specializes in upscale American fare—seared hanger steak, shrimp and grits, grilled salmon almondine. Small plates, charcuterie, sushi rolls and flatbreads are available on the rooftop. 1000 Riverside Ave., Riverside (575-2366; riverandpostjax.com). L, D, SB, $$$.

RP’s Fine Food & Drink RP’s serves local fish and fresh produce inside a casual beach setting.

The menu features items such as conch fritters, a crab cake BLT, and Shrimp 308—sautéed local shrimp doused in spicy Cajun butter over rice with hushpuppies. 1183 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach (853-5094; rpsjaxbeach.com). B, L, D, SB, $$.

Rue Saint-Marc Led by executive chef Scott Alters, Rue Saint-Marc strikes a balance between sophistication and comfort by serving decadent menu items like halibut meunière while maintaining exceptional service and a quaint atmosphere, all just steps from the heart of San Marco Square. 2103 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (619-0861; ruesaintmarc.com). B, L, D, SB, $$.

Safe Harbor Seafood Fresh, locally caught seafood is the calling card for Safe Harbor. That’s not surprising, as customers can practically see the shrimp boats of Mayport from the restaurant’s front door. It’s easy to see why hungry diners have been drifting here for years. Sure, the menu is laden with clams, oysters, crab cakes and other seafood standards, but sometimes a basket of fried shrimp, slaw, fries and hush puppies is a little slice of heaven. 4378 Ocean St., Mayport (246 4911, safeharbor-seafood.com). L, D, $$.

Salt Life Food Shack “Salt Life” is a ubiquitous phrase in Northeast Florida, and for many represents a lifestyle of relaxing fun and, above all, love for our adjacent ocean. This restaurant channels that vibe in a dining experience and a seafood-heavy menu designed to appeal to all locals and beach-lovers who enter, ranging from tuna poke bowls to Boca-style grouper. 1018 3rd St. N., Jacksonville Beach (372-4456; saltlifefoodshack.com); 321 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. L, D, $$.

Sliders Oyster Bar With its open-air bar and broad covered patio, Sliders oozes beaches vibes and charm. A sister restaurant of Safe Harbor Seafood, diners rest assured the fish, shrimp, and shellfish are going to be the freshest around. The raw bar serves all the seafood staples like steamed clams, peel-and-eat shrimp and oysters on the half-shell. The oysters Rockefeller is baked with spinach, parmesan, provolone and breadcrumbs.

The oysters “Godzilla” are served raw with seaweed salad, cucumber wasabi and the house “pirate” sauce. 218 1st St., Neptune Beach (246-

“Serving Locals at the Beach for 37 Years”

0881, slidersoysterbar.com). L, D, $$.

TacoLu In a style described as Baja Mexicana, this uber popular restaurant serves nachos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and about any kind of taco you desire, with fish tacos being their specialty. TacoLu fulfills their niche well, and it’s what earned them the designation of “Best Tacos” in the city in our Best In Jax reader’s poll. Oh, and they have over 100 types of tequila and mezcal.

1712 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach (249-TACO; tacolu.com). L, D, SB, $.

Taqueria Cinco Located in funky Five Points, this restaurant focuses on providing topnotch hospitality while serving authentic Mexican eats. If you come on a Friday or Saturday, be sure to try their Al Pastor. Happy hour food and drink specials available Mon.-Fri. from 3-6:30. Closed Sundays. 809 Lomax St., Riverside (312-9113; taqueria5points.com). L, D, $$.

Taverna

1183 Beach Boulevard | Jacksonville Beach 904.853.5094 | rpsjaxbeach.com

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Taverna offers authentic Italian dishes with a modern twist. Its focused menu brings out the best in Mediterranean flavors, producing dishes like antipasto and orecchiette. All of their pasta and mozzarella are house-made, and the pizzas are cooked in a wood oven at the back of the dining room.

1986 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-3005; taverna.restaurant). L, D, SB, $$.

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PRIVATE BANQUET SPECIALIST | FULL SERVICE BAR | LUNCH & DINNER DAILY | LAKESIDE PATIO SEATING

Sawgrass Village, Ponte Vedra Beach | aquagrill.net | 904.285.3017

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HOT SEATS

FORK ON THE ROAD

LEAVE IT TO THE BEAVER Breakfast starts at 4 AM sharp. Lunch items are available from 10:30 AM till midnight. Bakery items, fudge and jerky may be purchased 24 hours a day. So goes the daily food service routine at Buc-ee’s, the super-sized gas station chain that is spreading across the Southeast, from Texas to Florida. Of course, calling Buc-ee’s a gas station is akin to calling the Sistine Chapel a church. This is a privately held roadside enterprise that operates more than 40 locations, including the largest convenience store in the world at nearly 75,000 square feet in Sevierville, Tennessee.

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on’t let the sandy parking lot and diminutive size fool you. There are plenty of reasons to pull off the road for breakfast or lunch at Rodie’s Place in Palm Coast.

Despite being a stone’s throw from both the Atlantic and the Intracoastal, it’s not located next to the water and the view from the front porch is of cars zipping along Ocean Shore Boulevard. Yet, the uber casual joint serves some of the best eats in this slice of the Sunshine State.

With room for about a dozen or so tables inside and out, and a few stools at a small counter, Rodie’s can fill up early and fast. The seating is limited, but the menu covers lots of ground and is laced with dishes that offer twists on the standard breakfast and lunch fare. Buttermilk pancakes, French toast, three-egg omelettes and house-made biscuits topped with sausage gravy are early morning favorites. The spicy shrimp and grits with jalapeño and bacon ($15) is a treat.

Sandwich choices are led by the panko-crusted grouper po-boy, toasted meatball sub and Randy’s Dagwood ($17), a mini mountain of capicola, salami, pastrami and provolone topped with lettuce, onion and tomator. The Maryland crab cake sandwich on a grilled brioche bun tops the menu, price wise, at $22.

The Buc-ee’s at 9 Mile Road and I-95 isn’t quite that large. Its selection of hot and cold foods is enormous, offering everything from freshly smoked brisket and pastries to breakfast tacos and cheese kolaches. The bakery section is as large as that of a grocery store, the fudge selection is legendary and the Wall of Jerky has to be seen to be believed. Who is eating all this dried meat? Apparently, lots and lots of customers are. Potato chips, spiced peanuts, gummy bears, lemon cookies—aisle after aisle of packaged snacks bearing the Buc-ee’s beaver logo fill the store. There’s also home goods, charcoal grills, outdoor furniture and plush Buc-ee’s dolls to peruse and perhaps purchase.

18-wheel trucks are not permitted at Buc-ee’s.

Still, it can take some fast maneuvering to find an open space at one of its 104 gas pumps. There’s another Buc-ee’s south of Jax off I-95 at Daytona.

Stop here is your first bag full of Beaver Nuggets was quickly consumed. u

Muffins and other grab-and-go eats are on display and offered inside at the counter. Cold drinks can be had from the nearby cooler. The restaurant opens at 7:30 AM five days a week and stops serving as early as 2 PM, or 4 PM on Saturday and Sunday. Beer, wine and cocktails served. Most plates are under $15. So, with food and prices this good, who needs a waterside view. Be sure to say, “hi” to the stuffed bear out front. u

Taverna Oceana The recently opened next door neighbor to sister eatery Taverna, Sam and Kiley Efron’s latest specializes in fruits of the sea. The raw bar serves classics like oysters on the half-shell, shrimp cocktail and caviar. Dinner features lobster thermador, hot-smoked salmon and pasta primavera.

1988 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-3005; oceana.restaurant). L, D, $$

Town Hall Sourcing produce from local farms, Town Hall brings American fare with a West Coast influence to Florida. They encourage a sense of community in their dining experience, emphasized by comfy couches, warmly hued artwork, and thoughtful design touches such as outlets in the bar area. 2012 San

list. Sunday brunch features farm-to-table classics like chicken and waffles and biscuits with gravy. 1000 PGA Tour Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach (285-7777). B, D, $$$.

Whitey’s Fish Camp Not many restaurants double as an RV park. That hospitality, combined with homespun ultra casual décor produces a Southern atmosphere at Whitey’s Fish Camp that is, above all, authentic. The seafood is fresh and specialities include beer-battered fried grouper, North-of-the-border steamed snow crab legs, a shrimp boil, and all-you-can-eat catfish. Check out the deck, tiki bar and dock, where you can even arrive by boat. 2032

C.R. 220, Orange Park (269-4198; whiteysfish-camp.com). L, D, $$. u

Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-0726; townhalljax.com). D, SB, $$$.

Vernon’s First Coast Kitchen & Bar Located at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, this restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients and seafood, and provides an exceptional wine

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Send food and restaurant news, ideas or questions to mail@jacksonvillemag.com.

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HOT SEATS

RECIPE

RICOTTA SAUSAGE SKILLET PASTA Winter and comfort foods are a combination made in culinary heaven. Pasta, sauce, sausage, melty cheese and warm spices on a cool evening—it doesn’t get much better than that. The recipe posted here, shared by Polly-O, is relatively easy to make and features not one but three cheeses. You’ll want seconds, we promise.

INGREDIENTS 1 lb Rigatoni pasta 2 Tbsp. Olive Oil 1 lb bulk Italian sausage ½ medium onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 3 cups (24 oz.) prepared marinara sauce ½ tsp. red pepper flakes 1 1/2 cups Polly-O Mozzarella cheese, shredded 1 cup Polly-O Parmesan cheese, grated 15 oz. Polly-O Ricotta cheese

METHOD Boil pasta in salted water until al dente or semi-hard, drain and set aside.

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Heat olive oil in large skillet, add sausage and onion. Cook over medium high heat, stirring to crumble the sausage. Once browned, add garlic and heat for a few minutes.

Add the marinara and red pepper flakes.

Stir to incorporate all ingredients and bring sauce to a low boil.

Stir in the drained pasta, Mozzarella and ¾ cup of the Parmesan cheese.

Cover and let the combination heat through for a few minutes.

Remove skillet from heat, uncover pan and top with dollops of Ricotta cheese and the rest of the Parmesan cheese.

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Only in Florida Strange But True Stories from Across the Sunshine State

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n August 26, the US Coast Guard cutter Valiant intercepted Reza Baluchi, 51, an Iranian national who lives in Florida, as he was attempting to cross the Atlantic Ocean in a large home-made hamster wheel. Baluchi was detained approximately 70 miles into his journey off the coast of Tybee Island, Georgia. Before agreeing to come aboard the Valiant, Baluchi allegedly threatened to take his own life and insisted that he had a bomb onboard his metal and plastic tube. According to the Coast Guard, this was at least the fourth time he has attempted such a voyage. In 2014, he was rescued from his “hydro-bubble” near St. Augustine while attempting to roll from Florida to Bermuda.

trying to reach a gas station. Henderson was charged for leaving the scene of a crash and aggrevated battery with a deadly weapon.

Seventy-six-year-old Cheryl Henderson was involved in a two-car accident in Flagler County in late September. Instead of stopping following the crash, she drove off in her Ford SUV—doing so with an unidentified male clinging to the hood of her car. Her car’s exterior passenger reportedly was also involved in the accident and had tried to stop Henderson from leaving the scene. Video captured Henderson driving as fast as 50 miles per hour with the man gripping the hood of her vehicle. After about two miles, another driver was able to gently force Henderson to stop her car and pull off the road. According to police, she said she didn’t stop because she was out of fuel and was

Eric Thomas, 33, was promptly arrested in September after calling police to report that he had been a victim of a crime. According to the arresting officers, “Once police made contact with him he stated he was selling marijuana, and someone stole $10 from him while attempting to sell it.” The officers informed Thomas that the sale of marijuana is illegal in Florida, as was the possession of the two plastic baggies of cocaine found in his wallet. This was not Thomas’s first encounter with Florida law enforcement. He had been arrested previously after emptying seven Ziploc bags of pot into a plastic tray at a court security checkpoint. u

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A bear broke into a screened porch on a late summer afternoon in Lake Mary. This being Florida, the three-legged bear (named Tripod) proceeded to drink three mango and strawberry-flavored White Claw hard seltzers. Joseph Diglio, 13, witnessed the incident from inside his home, even capturing it on camera. Apparently, this was the second time a bear broke into the Diglio’s patio. “I was not scared because we know the bear really well,” Joseph told WESHTV. “He lives here; we respect their habitat as much as we can.”