Jacksonville Magazine November/December 2024

Sweet

LIFE IS SIMPLY BETTER WITH CHOCOLATE

CAN ARTISTS MAKE A LIVING IN JAX? THEY CAN, SORT OF

THE M ost WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS ACROSS THE FIRST COAST

KINGSLEY'S WITNESS TREE AND FLORIDA'S OFT FORGOTTEN PAST

Publisher’s Note

It is believed that the first Christmas celebration in what would eventually be the United States was observed in Florida. On a Tallahassee hillside in 1539, Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto and his company of soldiers and adventurers settled into a camp to let winter pass before moving on to points farther north. This is a documented fact. Archeologists discovered and studied de Soto’s original campsite about 40 years ago. However, while there are no records that an official Christmas service was held, historians generally believe that the 12 priests who accompanied him during a four-year expedition across the Southeast certainly would have marked the occasion with a mass. And they would have done so on December 15. It would be another four decades and the introduction of the Gregorian calendar before Catholics observed the 25th as Christmas Day.

According to the State Archives and Library of Florida, with winter fast approaching, de Soto ordered his expedition, consisting of more than 600 soldiers, slaves, craftsmen and clergy, to establish a large camp, where they would remain until March 3, 1540. “The location of de Soto’s camp was revealed in 1987 when State Archaeologist B. Calvin Jones uncovered artifacts from the expedition’s stay at a construction site just south of U.S. 27, just under a mile from the State Capitol. A small army of archaeologists and volunteers descended on the site, finding several copper coins, an iron crossbow point, nails, links of chain mail, broken Spanish olive jars and perhaps one of the most telling artifacts of all—the jawbone of a pig dating to around the time of de Soto’s expedition. Since de Soto had been the one to introduce the pig to North America, this was almost certainly a sign that he had been there.”

Did de Soto and his expedition enjoy a Christmas feast, something akin to what we celebrate today? Was roast pork on the menu that night? It’s possible, though unlikely we will ever know for certain. We do know, however, that the Spaniards’ stay in the region was not a peaceful one. “The natives who had evacuated Anhaica ahead of the expedition besieged the intruders, regularly attacking their garrison and hunting parties, and attempting to burn the town down by flinging torches and shooting flaming arrows into it,” records the State Archives. “de Soto responded in kind, using ruthless tactics to bring the Apalachees to heel.”

Fortunately for us, the holiday season today is mostly free of flinging torches and flaming arrows. Of course, we just had a presidential election and Inauguration Day is fast approaching so who can be truly sure of what’s to come in the weeks ahead. Hopefully, the flames will be limited to those in cozy fireplaces, candles placed atop dinner tables and backyard fire pits lit to toast marshmallows. Northeast Florida tends to be on the warmer side in December but we do know how to embrace the season and its many celebrations, traditions and special events. So, do what you can to enjoy it by attending a Nutcracker Ballet performance (like pictured above), a concert of holiday classics and maybe enjoy a glass of eggnog or two. We’ve been doing so here for 485 years. Why stop now? u

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

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UPCOMING EVENTS

December 20

Jax Beach Bar Crawl

December 20

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It was more than 40 years ago that Peggy Campbell-Rush was first drawn to the shore, specifically Long Beach Island, New Jersey. She enjoyed the sand and surf, but what really caught her attention and fascination was sea glass. “My best friend got me started and now I hunt for sea glass all over the world,” she says. “It’s very meditative to walk the beach and look for beautiful sand/ocean tumbled glass.” She has the spoils of her explorations peppered throughout her house, even using some of the glass to make jewelry.

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.

SMALL TALK

Newsworthy Nuggets from Across Northeast Florida to Chew on This Month

Kudos to the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club for being named the Number 2 Resort in Florida in this year’s Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. Based on more than 500,000 votes cast by travelers, the Best Resorts in the World compilation praises global vacation getaway destinations for their accommodations, culinary offerings and exemplary service. The Inn & Club opened in 1928 and is currently in the midst of a property-wide enhancement project timed to debut with the resort’s 100th anniversary in a few years.

According to a recent study of used cars on the road across the country, Jacksonville ranks #66 out of 157 metro areas for vehicle fuel efficiency. The study analyzed more than 19 million cars to determine miles per gallon and identify the most popular alternative vehicles in each city. In Jax, hybrids and electric vehicles make up 5.1% of one- to five-year-old used cars on our roads. Also, the average miles per gallon increased from 25 in 2019 to 27.2 in

2024. The most popular used electric car in the region is the Tesla Model 3.

The longest running community dinner theater in the country rolls into 2025 with a new season of comedies and musicals. The Alhambra Theatre & Dining kicks off the year with the comedy Southern Fried Funeral. Next, the stage comes alive with music from West Side Story and Beautiful: The Carol King Musical The Broadway classic My Fair Lady opens in April and Roald Dahl’s whimsical Charlie & the Chocolate Factory is a sweet surprise for summertime.

The most popular style of mustache in Florida is the so-called “Beardstache,” a combination of a beard, either full or stubble, paired with a longer style of mustache such as a Walrus or a Chevron, so say experts at barbershop Ruffians. Some Beardstache wearers separate the beard and stache with clean shaven areas, while others prefer to blend the two, a la Hen-

ry Cavill and Jon Hamm. The classic Goatee, a favorite of Leonardo Di Caprio and Will Smith, ranks second most popular in the Sunshine State. The favorites were determined by collecting Google searches over a 12-month period ending in August 2024.

“Never doubt Jacksonville. That was my message in the summer to Mayor Deegan, the Jacksonville City Council and our residents, and I am humbled and grateful that my fellow NFL team owners agree.” So read a statement from Jaguars owner Shad Khan following the unanimous vote by NFL team owners to approve the building of the Stadium of the future in Downtown. “The venue will be world-class by every definition. It will impressively serve the Jaguars and their fans, attract major sports and entertainment events to our region, and serve as an economic catalyst for decades to come,” Khan added. If all goes to plan, construction will begin next year with a grand opening in August 2028. u

The Future is Now

The Phoenix Arts & Innovation District is rising in Springfield. Literally so. A collection of ten separate properties across eight acres, PHX JAX encompasses some 120,000 square feet of repurposed warehouse space. The first phase of the development began in December 2023 with commencement of construction on what’s called the Emerald Station, a mix of offices, conference rooms, and event space—all of which officially debuted in late October. The adjacent Liberty Building will contain nearly 18,000 square feet of flex space that can be used for offices or retail. The restaurant Naked Kitchen has signed on with plans to open in the spring of 2025. “We are focused on supporting local entrepreneurs and artists, and as we open our first adaptive reuse building and continue to make progress on the redevelopment of other buildings, we are also building momentum through outreach and events to grow a deeper understanding of how Phoenix Arts and Innovation can best serve the neighborhood and community at large,” says Tony Cho, CEO and founder of developer Future Cities. u

WILD AT HEART

Next time you’re in the Panhandle, be sure to visit the Tallahassee Museum and say, “hi,” to the foxes in the guest animal exhibit. The animals were rescued from a fur farm in Minnesota before being returned to health at the Ark Wildlife Care and Sanctuary in Hilliard.

Author/physician Deepak Chopra is next in line to take the stage as part of the Florida Forum Speaker Series, on January 15 at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts. Introducing him for the evening will be Jax’s favorite billionaire, Shad Khan.

THIS YEAR MARKS THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE RIVERSIDE AVONDALE LUMINARIA, A HUGELY POPULAR NEIGHBORHOOD TRADITION SET FOR DECEMBER 8. THIS YEAR’S PROMOTIONAL POSTER WAS CREATED BY ARTIST TATIANA KITCHEN. FOLLOW HER WORK AT @OFPHOENIX ON INSTAGRAM. LOVE THE POSTER, TATIANA.

Season 26 of the reality TV show The Voice, debuting last month, features some local talent. Edward Preble from Fernandina secured a spot on Team Buble by singing “Luck Be Lady” by Frank Sinatra. And Katie O. (pictured) of Jax was selected to be part of Team Reba after singing “One Way Ticket” by LeAnn Rimes. Break a leg, Katie. You too, Edward.

TWO NEW FEATURE FILMS HAVE ROOTS IN JAX. THE CARPENTER, THE STORY OF A PRIZE FIGHTER WHO IS BEFRIENDED BY A BENEVOLENT CARPENTER FROM NAZARETH AND STARING KAULIN KREBS, PREMIERED ON SOME 1,000 SCREEN ON NOVEMBER 1.

Just a couple blocks from EverBank Stadium and tucked inside a graffiti-covered warehouse is Toon Town Pickleball. Six indoor courts, annual memberships, cosmic glow nights, spray-painted murals on the walls, tournament play—this is not your grandma’s pickleball.

Petty as a Picture

More than 40 years after its debut, Cameron Crowe’s cult classic Tom Petty: Heartbreakers Beach Party was released in cinemas for the first time in October. A 20-song album from the flick was released, as well. It streams next year on Paramount+. u

Enjoy the Ride

new hits and misses inside the magic kingdom

I’m not a huge fan of change and I’ll be honest, when I heard that the powers that be at my most beloved spot on earth had plans to change two of my favorite attractions, I was a little apprehensive, but excited all the same. So, with this said, Jax Maggie & Co recently headed south to the land of the Mouse in search of adventure and in the hopes of experiencing the two new incarnations of the Magic Kingdom’s classic rides—Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (AKA-Splash Mountain) and The Country Bear Jamboree.

I must make a little confession. I am a HUGE fan of the movie The Princess and the Frog Tiana, Prince Naveen, Charlotte, Mama Ode and the whole swampy crew. I adore the music, and I still get a bit verklempt when I think about the fate of Raymond, everyone’s favorite firefly. I loved the original Splash Mountain experience but was super excited about the fabulous possibilities of this new ride. Unfortunately, my dreams of a magical trip through the Bayou were dashed like the Shadow Man’s devious plans from the get-go. The ride picks up where the movie left off and follows

Tiana’s mission to find a musical band for a big party at her restaurant, or at least that’s what I think the ride was about. The attraction lacks most of the movie’s charming characters (until the very end) and falls flat on introducing new lovable friends. I am still wondering why the amazing original story line; magnificent musical score, and characters were tossed aside for a lack luster “part 2.” The story feels like a bad sequel that skipped the theatre and went straight to a streaming service. The splash is still there but not the heart.

On the other hand, I was not excited about a reimagining of the beloved Country Bear Jamboree. Yes, I am the guest who claps and sings along every time I visit. And let’s face it, Big Al’s charmingly mournful rendition of “Blood on the Saddle” has always been an absolute pleasure. So, I was worried about what the new version might look like. Would the bears be overly politically correct, leaving behind their grizzly humor and charm? Had everyone’s favorite plump crooner Trixie St. Claire jumped on the Ozempic band wagon leaving behind her cherubic persona? Rest

easy, dear reader, I am thrilled to report that the updated version is an absolute triumph! The old gang that we love is still there and they perform a series of Disney hits that will keep you clapping, hooting, and singing along until the end. Big Al still steals the show. His version of “Remember Me” from Coco had the guests in stitches. It’s a toe tapping hoedown you will not want to miss.

Change is never easy, especially when it comes to classic theme park attractions. One thing I know for sure is that the folks at Disney will continue to create magical experiences. Some we will love and some we won’t. As Walt said himself (the park) “will never be completed. It will continue to grow (and change), as long as there is imagination left in the world.” Check out both rides the next time you are in the Magic Kingdom. Decide for yourself, you might find a new favorite. u

— Maggie

Look for more of Jax Maggie's travels in upcoming editions of Jacksonville Magazine.

Cruise Control

Wandering the historic streets of downtown Savannah is a wonderful way to spend an autumn afternoon. From River Street to Forsyth Park, there’s always something new to see. To see the Hostess City from a new vantage, cruises along the Savannah River are now offered by Kessler Charters. Operators of two upscale hotels, the Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District and Bohemian Hotel, guided charters aboard a pair of vintage power boats are now available. The Kessler I is a 28-foot, four-passenger Ditchburn Launch built in 1924 and decked out with burnished mahogany. The larger but equally glamorous 34-foot Decked Out offers room for six passengers. Passengers can book a variety of private excursions, such as the Sunset Cruise, a serene ride featuring gourmet eats and drinks. There’s also the Island Tour, a fourhour cruise to Daufuskie Island, where guests are treated to picnic lunch on the beach. Excursions range in price from $1,250 to $3,000. u

RIDING THE RAILS

If speed isn’t your primary concern, an old-fashioned train ride might suit your needs for your next journey north. Starting November 10, Amtrak’s Floridian line began offering service between Miami and Chicago, with stops in cities including Cleveland, Pittsburg and Jax. “The Floridian offers customers an exceptional and sustainable journey to great destinations between Chicago and Miami, providing the amenities and delicious food for our guests to enjoy when traveling with us,” says Eliot Hamlisch, Amtrak executive vice president. First class private room options include a Roomette, a cabin with two reclining seats that transform into upper and lower beds, and a Bedroom offering twice the space of a Roomette and an in-room restroom and shower. Private rooms also have a dedicated attendant who provides turndown service, assists with meals and helps with luggage. u

Number$ Game

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

e Home sales across the country have dipped significantly in recent months. As we enter the cooler months in Northeast Florida, the housing market is cooling in lock-step. “Our market continued to see a significant decline in sales as the average market price increased slightly from August,” says Northeast Florida Association of Realtors president Rory Dubin. “The Home Affordability Index increased as well due to our area pricing being more competitive than any other major metropolitan area in the southeastern United States.” Across the region’s six-county area, the median sales price for single-family homes saw a modest increase of 1.8%, reaching $389,945. That’s the good news. On the other hand, closed sales across the region dipped nearly 18% month-over-month to 1,526 transactions. In addition, pending sales dropped significantly by 33% and new listings fell 8% to 2,835, indicating a tightening of available new inventory on the market. In Jax, the September median price of a single-family home was $334,750. u

God As My Witness

BY TIM GILMORE

“The grave-yard where several hundred slaves were buried in the old plantation days,” said a Harper’s New Monthly Magazine story in November 1878, “was between the house and the Negro quarters, and is now ploughed over, and yields heavy crops.”

Not 30 years later, Hannah Rollins referred in a 1904 letter to “tabby quarter houses, 36 in half circle beginning to decay,” when her father, John Rollins, four years after the Civil War, moved the family to the old Kingsley Plantation, first built for John McQueen in the 1790s. Rollins tried to make a living off grapes and oranges, and when that failed, to build a hotel and subdivide the island for real estate.

Hannah’s letter continued: “9 [formerly enslaved] families remained—a swarm of children [indecipherable] open sandy road to house from quarters except large oak—under it a still visible darky graveyard.”

The crops that Harper’s said Rollins harvested on top of graves are now long gone, but that live oak remains, a witness tree, hundreds of years old, a living connection to the human lives long ago inhabiting this place. The small limestone “tabby” houses of the enslaved remain almost by accident. Mid-20th century preservers of Kingsley Plantation discussed demolishing the old slave quarters,

perhaps building a golf course here. The quarters and plantation house with its outbuildings came to the National Park Service on different lots to preserve the structures of the owners and the possibility of redeveloping the land where lived, and were buried, the owned.

Throughout the 20th century, the persistence of the slave quarters begged the question of where those Africans enslaved were buried. Eventually the academic narratives seemed to care.

A “witness tree” is a direct living link to history. People regularly seek out the awe that accompanies the realization of standing on the very site where some great historical event occurred, where some prominent character in the grand drama that shaped our world once stood.

Famous witness trees include cherry trees on D.C.’s Tidal Basin, the Southern Magnolia planted by Andrew Jackson, as depicted on the $20 bill, and the Oklahoma City Survivor Tree, at the site of right-wing terrorist Timothy McVeigh’s 1995 bombing that killed 168 people, including 19 children in daycare, and injured 680.

“In the secrecy of the quarters and the seclusion of the brush arbors (‘hush harbors’) the slaves made Christianity their own,” by syncretizing it with residual indigenous African traditions, writes Albert Raboteau in his 2004

book Slave Religion: The Invisible Institution in the Antebellum South

“These clandestine meetings were typically held under a tree believed to have spiritual or protective powers,” writes Amani T. Marshall in his 2022 study The Enslaved Communities on Fort George Island

While frequently the layouts on plantations were panoptic, designed for maximum supervision of the enslaved by overseers at all times, Dan Schafer argues in his 2013 book on Zephaniah Kingsley, “The building complex at Kingsley’s plantation symbolically evokes images of circular Wolof villages,” like the one Kingsley’s child slave and later wife Anta Madjiguène Ndiaye, renamed Anna Kingsley, would have known in her earliest years in what’s now Senegal. Wolof villages, Marshall writes, “were organized in family compounds, containing multiple homes, granaries, and outbuildings facing an open area in the center, surrounded by a circular wall.”

The Witness Tree stands like the North Star to the crescent of the quarters. Between them, enslaved Africans met and talked, before the dawn of the workday, and in their rare free hour made music, then fixed food when the sun dipped beyond digging and planting and building and harvesting and perhaps the occasional symbolic sacrifice.

Kingsley Slave Cabins

The Witness Tree

Beginning in 2006, archaeologist James Davidson, with the University of Florida, field-tested the grounds between the tree and the cabins. He found the graves. Archaeologists found blue bead “offerings,” pieces of iron used “to ward against evil” and egg-shaped stones used in fertility rituals.

In the entrance to one cabin, labeled W-15, they found an “intact and fully articulated chicken (skeleton), along with an in situ egg, an iron/laterite concretion, and a single glass bead.” Beneath the tabby floor of the sugar mill, built in the late 1700s or early 1800s, they found a young pig. Davidson argues the hen may have been a sacrifice to the Yoruba god Esu, known also in the Americas as Legba, mediator between humans and gods.

They found six slave burials, with but “few artefacts,” and a greater awareness of just how much they don’t know. How many enslaved people are buried out from the Witness Tree, in mind of the “several hundred” Harper’s numbered in 1878, no one knows. The burials seem to date from between 1800 and 1850, each in a coffin apparently hexagonal and fitted to the body.

All bodies but one were buried facing east. Perhaps they were laid in the earth facing

Say My Name

Mecca, as Islam decrees, since African indigenous cultures had syncretized Islam before slave ships left Africa for America. Perhaps, as in later African American graves, they were buried facing the coming of the archangel Gabriel, sounding his trumpet for “the Great Gettin’-Up Morning.”

There were graves marked with seashells, buried themselves by the land rising through time. Lightning whelks rare here, but consistent, Marshall points out, with Kongo-Angola cosmology. Cargo manifests for Kingsley’s Africans include people purchased from, Marshall notes, “Senegal, Gambia, the Rio Pongo region of modern Guinea, the Bight of Biafra on the coast of present-day Nigeria, Angola, Kenya, and Tanzania.” Enslaved people in Kingsley’s possession bore such African names as Abdalla, Bonify, Comba, Couta, Jenoma, Penda, Qualla, Tamasa, Tamba and Yamba.

In his 2018 report, James Davidson writes that in his personal and archaeologically informed imagination, “I most often envisioned the people who inhabited these cabins, not their broken plates and buttons and beads,” that he tried to picture them “as they were, the sum of their lives, their amazing ability to maintain African identities, and to wrest dignity from oppressive and brutal times.” u

“The Holocaust, planned, initiated, and directed by Nazi Germany from 1933 to 1945, was among the most horrific atrocities—indeed, arguably the most horrific—in modern history. More than ten million innocent and blameless Europeans were murdered…” So opens the introduction to I Will Give Them an Everlasting Name: Jacksonville’s Stories of the Holocaust (Amsterdam Publishers), a new 230-page paperback by author Samuel Cox, a retired US Army Reserve officer and a former teacher at St. Johns Country Day School. Most wouldn’t readily associate the horrors that occurred in 1930s and ‘40s Europe with Northeast Florida, but Cox bridges the two together with photos and first-hand stories from Holocaust survivors who, after making it through the war and its aftermath, were able to cross the Atlantic to Jacksonville. The book is laced with detailed histories of people such as Ella Lucak Rogozinski—who was born in Czechoslovakia in 1927, sent with her family to live in a Jewish ghetto in Budapest, imprisoned in the notorious Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp, forced to march 450 miles to another concentration camp as the Russian army swept into Poland, before eventually being liberated by British and Canadian troops in the spring of 1945. Eighteen-year-old Ella stood five feet tall and weighed 52 pounds with the number A-85674 forever tattooed to her arm. She and her husband Jakob emigrated to America in 1959. She spoke seven languages but not English. Between the two, they had $8.50 in their pockets. Yet, their story and those of many other survivors who found a new life in Jacksonville wasn’t over. In fact, it continues to this day through their children and grandchildren, businesses established and deep roots sewn into Northeast Florida soil. u

Store Front

What’s new and noteworthy in local shopping and dining

Sour feelings on the economy be damned, consumers are expected to open their wallets and spend, spend, spend this holiday season. According to the National Retail Federation, shoppers will spend between $979.5 billion and $989 billion between the beginning of November and December 31, figures which represent a sizable increase over 2023 purchases.

 The 2025 Hooters Calendar contains a decidedly local look, featuring four women who work at the San Jose location of the famed chicken wings, fries and beer restaurant. Pictured inside are Jax’s own Emily Johnson, Karli Blair, Blakelyn Brown and Amber and Holly Diaz (pictured). Calendars may be purchased at the restaurant and for every one sold, Hooters will donate $1 toward its Give A Hoot fundraising effort benefitting the V Foundation for Cancer Research.

 In October, Germany-based Hugo Boss clothing company opened a new outlet at the St. Johns Town Center, next door

restaurant under the same name in February 2025, this one a couple miles away on Vilano Beach in the Hyatt Place hotel. The new eatery will feature larger dining spaces, a chef’s table experience and a wine library. Cheers, Michael!

to Coach. Boss is known for offering men’s fashions, ranging from casual and athleisure pieces to suits and sport jackets. “Hugo Boss is sure to be a hit at the Center, with iconic pieces and signature tailoring always stylish for any occasion,” says Carrie Hanlon, director of marketing and business development for Town Center.

 Jacksonville’s Eastside neighborhood recently welcomed The Corner at Debs Store at East. 5th Street and Florida Avenue. The 5,000-square-foot grocery store, operated by Goodwill Industries of North Florida, is the only outlet for healthy, sustainable eats in the area. Look for the red brick building and the “Drink Coca-Cola” sign.

 Longtime St. Augustine fine dining establishment Michael’s is serving its final meals on Cuna Street this December 31.

Chef Michael Lugo is closing up shop, but is opening a new

 After three years of construction, the all-new Outback Crab Shack has reopened along State Road 13 in St. Johns County. Best known for its waterside deck, Low Country seafood and half-mile-long dock, the restaurant was closed by its former owners following flooding from Hurricane Matthew. New owners built in the same spot against Six Mile Creek, but at a higher elevation to better weather future storms.

 Nothing is better than a hot bowl of soup on a cold evening. This fall, the hometown franchise Woody’s Bar-B-Q dives into soup season with a duo of new combos, the Pig ’N Potato and Pepper ’N Cheddar, each priced around $12.

Woody’s Loaded Baked Potato soup is paired with a classic

BLT with hickory-smoked bacon and the Red PepperGouda soup can be ordered with a grilled cheese sandwich stuffed with housemate macn-cheese. Both combos are available through December 15 at participating Woody’s.

 Fans have been lining up to get their hands on designer Carlos Foster’s 89 Los Originals’ latest Jagaursbranded all-over print shirts. Specializing in what he calls “urban vintage” clothing, inspired by the golden age

of hip-hop, the new, limited edition designs ($100 per tee) are a collaboration between Foster and the franchise and are available at the Miller Electric Center pro shop adjacent to the stadium. u

Debs Store

Woody's Bar-B-Q

An Artist's Life

Overcoming challenges and Fulfilling the dream

BY JEFFREY SPEAR

For most people, going to work is a dance that’s performed to the rhythm of a 40-hour work week, accessorized with a nicely furnished workspace, camaraderie of co-workers, health insurance and, most importantly, a steady paycheck. For full-time fine artists, their lives swing to an entirely different beat. Many work in isolation, manage unpredictable schedules and find the idea of a steady paycheck more of a dream than reality. While a career in art can be rewarding, the challenges are constant.

It’s a common realization among artists that, although everything they needed to know about their craft was taught at school, they graduated with little understanding of sales, marketing and business administration. Fortunately, they tend to flock together, creating valuable networks for mentoring and occupational support.

This has certainly been important to photographer Ally Brody and cut paper artist Hiromi Moneyhun. For Brody, an emerging

artist working as both a commercial and fine art photographer, her network has helped her better understand and embrace essential business practices. While client-driven assignments range in value and keep her in business, it remains to be seen if fine art photography, currently selling anywhere from $60 to $150, will become a larger part of her output. As her career unfolds, she’s pursuing opportunities to publish and showcase her work whenever possible.

Taking a considerably different approach, life as a professional artist was never part of the plan for Moneyhun. In fact, she was reluctant to show her work at all. With support from the art community, her incredibly detailed and beautifully conceived cut paper creations found a following that has been growing since 2012. Although prices can range from $1,000 to $10,000, sales are infrequent, especially her larger pieces. To help supplement her income, Moneyhun teaches cut paper workshops at various museums and produces relatively inexpensive

cut paper ornaments for the holidays. The good news is that her mortgage is paid and she lives simply, and makes art every day without worry.

After 20 years as a graphic designer, Jason Tetlak decided to change direction. For the last four years, he’s been working as a fulltime muralist, creating bold and colorful pieces, many with innovative 3-D and interactive features. With commissions from $5,000 to $10,000, he’s found a career path that’s considerably more enjoyable and lucrative. This being said, he spends 80% of his time conducting research and digging around for new opportunities. When asked about job security, Tetlak remarks “It’s been hard, not knowing where the next job will come from. While I’ve learned to anticipate slow times, I worry this could crumble at any moment.”

Most artists understand that risks and insecurities are constants. With this in mind, Jim Benedict, a maker of public sculptures, kinetic works and installations, is always on

Ally Brody Kathy Stark Hiromi Moneyhun

DIVORCE FOR WOMEN, BY WOMEN

The team at Florida Women’s Law Group is committed to ensuring women are informed, prepared, and supported to assert their rights, whether it’s regarding nancial support or timesharing arrangements. Through over 40 years of combined legal experience, we’ve recognized common patterns where women, understandably a ected by fear and uncertainty, may sometimes hesitate to begin the process. Once they do take that rst step, there’s a natural inclination to seek a quick resolution, sometimes overlooking their own well-being in the process. Through a combination of empathetic support and robust legal advocacy, we guide our clients through the divorce and family law process, safeguarding their interests and future. Our commitment extends beyond legal representation, aiming to foster relationships and support women not only in winning their legal battles but also winning at life. Contact us at Florida Women’s Law Group today.

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the lookout for new projects. Although awards for public installations can range between $50,000 to $75,000, there’s lots of competition and no guarantees. After 23 years, Benedict attributes much of his success to an unwavering passion for his work. “I never know for sure where the next job will come from,” he says. “Every time I land a project, I’m incredibly grateful.”

Recognizing there’s always more to do in terms of promotion and exposure, Kathy Stark has still attracted considerable recognition over the past 20 years. Her beautifully rendered oil and watercolor paintings of North Florida’s wilderness, many large format, can sell anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000. To accommodate buyers with limited budgets, she also produces archival fine art prints and posters with considerably smaller price tags. Stark acknowledges the difficulties being a full-time artist and is modest about her achievements. “It’s a lot to juggle,” she admits. “While I want to be in the studio and paint, there are lots of outside obligations. I’m making a living but may never retire.”

While life as a full-time artist has its challenges, it rewards are noteworthy, providing a way for individuals to express themselves freely and share their uniquely personal vision with the world. For all of us here in Jacksonville, these dynamics have made us, and our communities, that much richer. u

It’s estimated that nearly 300,000 patrons have attended performances of the Community Nutcracker since the very first cadre of tin soldiers and mice scampered onto the local stage in 1992. The story and music remain the same each Christmas season but the cast of characters is ever changing, as area kids and grown-ups audition for parts in the annual tradition.

For a refresher on the classic ballet, imagine that it’s Christmas Eve in the late 19th Century at the Von Stahlbaum home. Grandparents and guests begin to arrive to celebrate the holiday with Clara, Fritz and their parents. Arriving late to the party is Herr Drosselmeyer, Clara’s mysterious godfather. He entertains the partygoers with magic tricks and mechanical dolls. Young Clara begs to have one of the dolls, but Drosselmeyer says, “no.” Instead, he gifts her a wooden nutcracker soldier. Clara’s brother Fritz become angry and jealous and tries to grab the nutcracker from his sister and, doing so, breaks the wooden figure. Much dancing and fantastical happenings ensues.

Community Nutcracker is the city’s volunteer-run organization that offers a portion of its proceeds to local charitable agencies such as Dreams Come True. In fact, the organization has donated more than $800,000 to area charitable causes in the past 32 years—all from the talents of more than 200 local dancers each year ranging in age from 9 to adults. This year’s public performance schedule of Tchaikovsky’s timeless two-act ballet includes shows on Friday, December 13 at 7:30 PM, Saturday, December 14, 1 PM matinee and 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre. Tickets start at $25..u

Help Wanted?

An estimated 20 million of our nation’s young people can currently be diagnosed with a mental health disorder. That comes to about one in every five kids ages 3-17 having a mental, emotional, behavioral or developmental disorder, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. If that wasn’t sobering enough, many more are at risk of developing a disorder due to factors in their genetics, or within their schools, families, communities, and among their peers.

it goes without saying that there is a great need for mental health professionals to provide the best available care based on scientific evidence, good clinical expertise, and the unique characteristics of the child. However, current estimates are that only about 20 percent of children who need these services receive the appropriate help from a qualified mental health professional.

“Is this a problem? Is this normal? Did I wait too long? Does my child need medication or will psychotherapy be enough? How do I tell you about my child without them feeling betrayed by me?” These are just some of the questions many parents ask themselves prior to seeking profes -

sional help, says board certified Clinical Psychologist Dr. Justin D’Arienzo. “It’s often a challenge to both recognize your child needs help and to accept it. Many parents delay getting help often because of magical thinking, even when it comes to their kids. We think things will magically get better. Sometimes they do get better, but not with magic. Also, it’s painful to think your kid needs help, so sometimes we avoid getting help for that reason, too.”

Of course, mental health—an essential part of children’s overall wellbeing—involves a complex interactive relationship with their physical health and their ability to succeed in school, in society and later in life. Both physical and mental health affect how we think, feel, and act on the inside and outside. We’ve all heard the stories—such as an overweight young boy who is teased about his body who may withdraw socially and become depressed and may be reluctant to play with others, further contributing to his poor physical health and, as a result, poorer mental health.

Among the more common mental health conditions that can be diagnosed in childhood are anxiety disorders (often severe fears or worries), depressive disorders, and behav-

ioral disorders. Initial diagnosis of these and other conditions are often made during one’s school years but sometimes can be earlier, depending on the condition. However, some kids with a mental health condition may not be recognized or diagnosed as having one. Also, symptoms of mental health conditions change over time as a child grows and may include difficulties with how the child feels, his ability to handle emotions, and how he learns, plays, and acts around others. It’s not uncommon for some conditions to start in early childhood, while others do not begin to develop until later or during their teenage years.

“If your child is in distress and you can’t get them relief or they are self-destructing and they won’t stop, I would always take that situation seriously and then seek professional help,” says D’Arienzo. “More subtle signs that something may be amiss include a sudden shift in behavior or mood that lasts for more than a couple days, moping around the house, avoiding their friends and family, isolating or locking themselves in their room, choosing new friends that have a bad reputation, not sleeping or eating, talking about death, or avoiding school and social events.

In early puberty, regions of the brain linked to

emotions and social behaviors are developing more quickly than regions associated with cognitive control of behavior. These developmental changes can drive young people to seek attention and approval from their peers. For some, using social media fulfills that need in a healthy way, providing opportunities for connection and validation to youth who may be isolated from peers, geographically or otherwise. For others, negative messages, such as online bullying and unrealistic standards around physical appearance, appear to have a detrimental effect, though more research is needed to understand who is most at risk.

The Covid-19 pandemic ushered in a new set of challenges for youth in the country, leading to a mental health crisis declared by the U.S. Surgeon General. But the pandemic wasn’t the start of the crisis. According to the American Psychological Association, many of the country’s kids and teens have been suffering for far longer. In the ten years leading up to the pandemic, feelings of persistent sadness and hopelessness, as well as suicidal thoughts and behaviors, increased by about 40 percent among young people. In addition

to the social isolation and academic disruption nearly all teens and children faced, many also lost family and friends to the virus, had a parent lose a job, over were victims of physical or emotional abuse at home.

All these difficulties, on top of the growing concerns about social media, mass violence, natural disasters, climate change, and political polarization—not to mention the normal ups and downs of childhood and adolescence—can feel insurmountable to a developing mind. And social issues and disruptions like these didn’t affect all young people equally.

Echoing pre-Covid-19 trends, the CDC found that girls, LGBTQ youth, and those who have experienced racism were more likely to have more mental health during the pandemic.

According to D’Arienzo, “It’s never a mistake to seek help. If it’s not needed, the psychologist will tell you, and at least you’ve opened the pathway for your child to get help if ever needed and you’ve established a relationship with a mental health provider in town that now knows your family and can help you in the future.” u

WRITE ON!

It’s not easy for a local author to have a book make it onto the shelves at Barnes & Noble. Children’s book author Jennifer Nestor has done just that, seeing her paperback Jane Escapes to the Jungle of Individuality offered for sale at the national retailer. With illustrations by Victoria Mikki, the book tells the tale of young Jane as she navigates the fears and worries so common in childhood, such as riding the school bus and sitting in the classroom. For Jane, confidence comes through a dream and her conversations and adventures with characters such as Avery the Ape and Claire the Cheetah. These imagined and furry friends help her learn that being unique and even quirky can make her brave and strong. u

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the to-do list

NORTHEAST FLORIDA’S ENTERTAINMENT & CULTURAL AGENDA

As we write this, the 2024 NFL season hasn’t been one to remember for the hometown Jags. Chances of making the playoffs are non-existent. But for fans at EverBank Stadium, hope springs eternal and the team closes out the year with home games vs. the, New York Jets December 15 and Tennessee Titans December 29. Is it too early to start talking about the 2025 NFL draft in April?

FESTIVAL

Deck the Chairs

 The beloved Beaches tradition returns for its 12th season at the Seawalk Pavilion in Jax Beach. Opening November 27 and continuing through the holidays, the free exhibition of decorated life guard chairs features more than 40 children’s stage programs, moonlight movie screenings, a Christmas Eve service and a Gator Bowl pep rally. In

addition, 20 student-made chairs will be on display at the Jacksonville Zoo.

EXHIBITION

Mission: Astronaut

 The hands-on traveling exhibition has been designed to present a taste of life as a space explorer, on display through January 5 at the Museum of Science & History. Each section highlights tasks that require an astronaut to solve

problems using skills and lessons in engineering, physics, teamwork and even fun. From guiding a robotic arm to exploring the intricate process of designing a spacesuit, visitors gain insight into the essential technologies that make space exploration possible.

EXHIBITION

Spirit in the Land

 A new exhibit at the Cummer Museum of Art features

works by 30 contemporary artists from North America and the Caribbean that investigate natural environments under stress. Acting as environmental stewards, the artists reclaim and revitalize our understanding of nature as a repository of cultural memory, a place of sanctuary, a site of resistance, and a source of spiritual nourishment and healing. The exhibition presents a belief in the possibility of transformation and regeneration. On display through February 9.

THEATRE

A Christmas Story, the Musical

 Perfect for the whole family, A Christmas Story the Musical is a hilarious and touching coming-of-age story of growing up in the Midwest in the 1940s. Don’t shoot your eye out! Dinner and drinks served with the show through December 24 at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining, $71-$84

MUSIC

Dave Koz

 Dave Koz and Friends announce the 27th anniversary edition of the longest-running jazz-based Christmas tour. Beginning the next era of this rich musical tradition, Koz and Friends perform fresh renditions of timeless Christmas classics, as well as a Chanukah medley, and hits from their respective catalogues, December 3, 8 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $60-$95

SPORT

Jacksonville Icemen

 The hometown minor league hockey squad skates into VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena for six games in December—3, 5, 6, 11, 14, and 27. And the puck drops for six more home games January 4, 8, 10, 11, 25 and 31. All games start at 7 PM, $27-$83

FESTIVITIES

Holiday Market

 Shop for holiday gifts from a selection of more than 35 artisans around the Lightner Museum’s historic swimming pool, enjoy live music by Raisin Cake Orchestra and participate in a family ornament decorating activity and more at this annual Christmas celebration December 12, 6-8 PM, downtown St. Augustine

MUSIC

Holiday Pops

 Step into the enchanting world of seasonal magic with the Jacksonville Symphony’s annual Holiday Pops extravaganza. Broadway vocalists join the Symphony Chorus and the musicians of the symphony to create a most joyous holiday event. From timeless carols to seasonal favorites, every note resonates with the spirit of the season, six shows December 5-8, Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $30-$92

THEATRE

Ain’t

Too Proud

 Follows The Temptations’ extraordinary journey from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. With their signature dance moves and silky-smooth harmonies, they rose to the top of the charts creating an amazing 42 Top Ten Hits with 14 reaching number one. Ain’t Too Proud-The Life and Times of The Temptations is presented by FSCJ Artist Series, six shows, December 5-8, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $47-$139

THEATRE

1964: The Tribute

 “1964”  focuses on the quintessential moment in history, when The Beatles actually played before a live audience. The Beatles toured the world in the early ’60s,

Deck the Chairs

but now only a few remain who actually saw them live. This show meticulously recreates the Fab Four’s magic December 6, 7:30 PM, at the Thrasher-Horne Center, $29-$59

SPORT

St. Augustine Amateur

 The maximum 84-player field is expected to include current NCAA Division I college golfers, nationally ranked junior golfers who have committed to play for NCAA Division I programs, elite mid-amateurs and international representation for the 19th playing of this golf tournament December 6-8, 8:30 AM first tee times, at the St. Johns Golf Club. Spectators welcome.

EXHIBITION

First Coast Design Show



The theme of this year’s celebration of antiques, gardens and interiors is the “Art of Style,” showcasing some two dozen exhibitors, designers and galleries. In addition, the three-day event, December 6-8 at the Prime Osborn Convention Center, features flower workshops, designer lectures, an opening night gala and kid’s fashion show, all benefitting Wolfson Children’s Hospital, $30-$600

MUSIC

Spanish Brass

 Appearing as part of the Beaches Fine Arts Series, Spanish Brass is a world class ensemble performing December 8, 4 PM, at St. Paul’s by-theSea Church, Jacksonville Beach, free

MUSIC

Trans-Siberian Orchestra

 When Paul O’Neill first conceived Trans-Siberian Orchestra, his goal was as straightforward as it was incredibly ambitious. “The whole idea,” he explains, “was to create a progressive rock band that would push the boundaries (of the genre) further than any group before... Way, way further. ”He’s done that and much more. The Orchestra brings its Lost Christmas Eve tour to Jax December 12, 7 PM, VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $60-$110

FESTIVAL

Dickens on Centre

 The 10th annual Dickens on Centre festival, an immersive Victorian holiday experience set in Amelia Island historic downtown district, takes place December 12-15. The event features an nighttime Illuminated Procession on December 12, a holiday shopping marketplace December 13-15, live music, food trucks, costumed characters, visits from Jolly St. Nick, a 3-D drone show and more.

Seen

Daniel, Florida’s oldest child-care agency, celebrated the organization’s 140th anniversary by hosting members of its 1884 Giving Society for an evening soiree on October 3 inside the VyStar Tower Downtown. Approximately 100 guests enjoyed cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres and personal stories about the many ways their support has helped improve the lives of local children and families over the years. u

UPCOMING:

You are invited to help celebrate 35 incredible years of Communities In Schools of Jacksonville—a milestone that highlights the organization’s commitment to transforming the lives of over 111,000 students. The 35th Anniversary Gala is set for January 31, 6 PM, at the Deerwood Castle.

Volunteers in Medicine hosts its annual Women With Heart luncheon on February 5. Among this year’s honorees are Dr. Sonya Dominguez from Ascension St. Vincent’s, Stephanie Cost from Jacksonville University and Amy Williams from First Coast Cardiovascular Institute.

The Beaches Town Center played host to the 7th annual Beaches Tour of Homes one Saturday in early November. More than a dozen private residences opened their doors to guests as part of a fundraiser for the nonprofit neighborhood improvement organization. More than $50,000 was raised via the tour and special events such as the Toast to the Tour Gala on Thursday, November 7. Looks for the 8th annual tour to return in the fall of next year.. u

PHOTOS BY DUNLOP GREY PHOTOGRAPHY

MUSIC

Handel’s Messiah

 The Jacksonville Symphony is joined by the brightest solo voices and the full Jacksonville Symphony Chorus to deliver the uplifting and majestic gift of Handel’s Messiah Shining with hope, inspiration and sheer joy, its message of faith has brought audiences to their feet since its premiere in 1742. December 15, 7:30 PM, and December 16, 3 PM, Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $40-$164

THEATRE

A Slightly Wicked Holiday Show

 Looking for something fresh and new this holidays? Sing along and celebrate with recent stars of the Broadway smash WICKED—Alli Mauzy, Jackie Burns, Sam Gravitte and Ryan Shirar—as they sing songs, banter with the audience and put a fresh spin on the season. A Slightly Wicked Holiday Show is presented by FSCJ Artist Series December 17, 7:30 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $40-$103

MUSIC

Mindi Abair

 Mindi Abair looks to carry on the holiday tradition with her own Christmas show. Join Mindi and friends, Marcus Anderson and Lindsey Webster, for a magical night of Christmas classics and all their smooth jazz hits December 17, 8 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $55-$145

THEATRE

Christmas With the Celts

 Currently celebrating 14 years of successful national touring, Christmas with the

Celts perform a wonderful combination of timeless ancient Irish Christmas carols and lively Irish dance with modern contemporary songs, but with Irish instrumentation. New Christmas hits, Celts originals and fresh Irish Dance tunes are added to the show each year so that no two years are the same. December 17, 7:30 PM, at the Thrasher-Horne Center, $$29-$69

MUSIC

Ben Folds

 Ben Folds is widely regarded as one of the major music influencers of our generation. The Emmy-nominated singer-songwriter-composer has created an enormous body of genre-bending music that includes pop albums with Ben Folds Five, multiple solo albums, and numerous collaborative records. Hear him live December 21, 8 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $46-$100

MUSIC

Cool Side of Yuletide

 Join the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus for its 16th annual Cool Side of Yuletide holiday concert featuring seasonal tunes, classic carols, selections from Rutter’s “Magnificat” and

an audience sing-along, December 21, Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church, free

SPORT

WWE Live Holiday Tour

 ’Tis the season to bring the action, as well as a few Figure-Four Leglocks, Power Slams, Pile Drivers and maybe an Alley Cop or Diving Elbow Drop, as the stars of WWE wresting enter the ring inside VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena December 26, 7:30 PM, $35-$150

OPERA

The Barber of Seville

 First Coast Opera celebrates its 25th season with a production of Rossini’s timeless masterpiece, The Barber of Seville December 29 and 31. This lively, comedic opera tells the story of Figaro, the clever barber, as he helps Count Almaviva to woo the beautiful Rosina, all while outwitting her guardian, Dr. Bartolo. Staged at Lewis Auditorium, St. Augustine, $20-$90

SPORT

TaxSlayer Gator Bowl

 The 80th Annual TaxSlayer Gator Bowl will be played at EverBank Stadium on Thursday January 2. 7:30 PM, and televised nationally on ESPN. The college football classic features a team from the SEC (including, Florida, Oklahoma & Texas) that will serve as the anchor team and will face off against a team from the ACC (including Cal, SMU, & Stanford), $50-$375

EXHIBITION

St. Augustine Art Association

 For the exhibition “Out of Place,” artists are challenged to create images that question the normal, that push the boundaries of what should be and, letting go of apprehension, build a place where the out-ofplace fits, on display January 3 through February 2, at the STAAA gallery, 22 Marine St.

MUSIC

Jacksonville Symphony

 The best of Broadway comes to Jacoby Symphony Hall as the Symphony, powerhouse guest vocalists and the Symphony Chorus celebrate two dynamos of American theater: Leonard Bernstein and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Experience the

most iconic musical theater moments from Phantom of the Opera, West Side Story, Candide and more all combined in one incredible show, January 3, 11 AM and 7:30 PM, and January 4, 7:30 PM, $28-$88

DANCE

Sleeping Beauty

 Experience the enchanting tale of Sleeping Beauty brought to life in a mesmerizing ballet. Witness the captivating performance by the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine as they tell the story of Princess Aurora, cursed to a century-long slumber by the evil fairy Carabosse. Presented by FSCJ Artist Series January 5, 3 PM, Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $19-$92

MUSIC

July Collins

 Judy Collins has inspired audiences with sublime vocals, boldly vulnerable songwriting, personal life triumphs, and a firm commitment to social activism. In the 1960s, she evoked both the idealism and steely determination of a generation united against social and environmental injustices. She sings in Jax on January 6, 8 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $49-$69

THEATRE

Mama Mia!

 Set on a Greek island paradise where the sun always shines, a tale of love, friendship, and identity is beautifully told through the timeless hits of ABBA. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited decades ago. The Broadway smash Mama Mia! is presented by FSCJ Artist Series January 7-12, 8 shows, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $47-$155

Handel’s Messiah

Sleeping Beauty

Ben Folds

THEATRE

Southern Fried Funeral

 Following the death of her husband Dewey, Dorothy Frye is left to keep the family together and all in one piece. It’s no simple challenge, but does result in many hilarious situations and conversations. Staged January 9 through February 9 at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining, $45-$84

MUSIC

Elvis

Birthday Bash!

 World-class Elvis impersonators Mike Albert and Scot Bruce along with the Big E Band return to the Florida Theatre to celebrate Elvis’ 90th Birthday Bash! From his sexy sneer to his gyrating guitar playing, Scot Bruce is one of the world’s finest “Young Elvis” impersonators, while Mike Albert presents a stunningly accurate and respectful portrayal of the latter-day “Vegas” Elvis. January 10, 7 PM, $39-$49

MUSIC

Clayton Stephenson

 A finalist of the 2022 Cliburn International Piano Competition and a 2025 winner of the Sphinx Medal of Excellence, Stephenson is a true virtuoso, playing as part of the Beaches Fine Arts Series January 10, 7:30 PM, St. Paul’s by-the-Sea Church, free

MUSIC

The Gatlin Brothers

 For more than 69 years, the Gatlin Brothers have entertained audiences in venues and stages all over the world from the Grand Ole’ Opry to Carnegie Hall. They have performed for the Grammy Awards, the American Music Awards, and the People’s Choice Awards. Hear them in person January 10, 7:30 PM, at the Thrasher-Horne Center, $19-$69

DANCE

The Snow Queen

 The Snow Queen is a powerful and cold-hearted ruler who travels the world with the snow, bringing winter wherever she goes. Through world-class ballet, the tale tells the adventures of a young girl named Gerda and her quest to rescue her friend Kai from the clutches of the evil queen. Featuring the Grand Kyiv Ballet January 12, 4 PM, at the Thrasher-Horne Center, $26-$69

Elvis Birthday Bash!

MUSIC

Jacksonville Symphony

 Luke Skywalker begins a journey that will change the galaxy in Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert. Nineteen years after the formation of the Empire, Luke is thrust into the struggle of the Rebel Alliance when he meets Obi-Wan Kenobi, who has lived for years in seclusion on the desert planet of Tatooine. You probably know the rest of the story. Experience it all again with the Jacksonville Symphony January 17 and 18, 7 PM, Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $35-$101

MUSIC

Marty Stuart

 Country Music Hall of Famer, five-time Grammy-winner, and AMA Lifetime Achievement honoree Marty Stuart picks up where he left off on Altitude, his first new album in five years, exploring a cosmic country landscape populated by dreamers and drifters, misfits and angels, honky-tonk heroes and lonesome lovers. Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives play January 19, 7 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $55-$69

OPERA

Tosca

 Puccini’s Tosca  is a drama of frightening power. Floria Tosca is a famous opera singer, deeply religious and spiritual, yet passionate and

fatally jealous. Her lover is Mario Cavaradossi, a sensitive artist, madly in love with Tosca, who courageously tries to help a condemned political prisoner. Romance, murder, suicide… this one has it all. Presented by FSCJ Artist Series January 24, 7:30 PM, Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $19-$69

MUSIC

Jacksonville Symphony

 7 Bridges: The Ultimate EAGLES Experience is a stunningly accurate tribute to the music of the Eagles. Alongside the Jacksonville Symphony, 7 Bridges faithfully re-creates the experience of an Eagles concert from the band’s most prolific period, featuring one brilliant hit single after another including “Hotel California,” “Take it Easy,” “New Kid in Town” and others January 24 and 25, 7:30 PM, $42-$102

MUSIC

Dirty Dancing

 “Nobody puts Baby in a corner.” At least not tonight as Dirty Dancing in Concert , the classic film’s first live film-to concert experience. Enjoy the digitally remastered movie like never before on a full-size cinema screen, with a live band and singers performing the film’s iconic songs January 29, 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $39-$65

DANCE Render

 A triple-bill of new, non-traditional dance works, featuring commissioned artists Ebone Amos, Theresa Jimmerson and Jim Morrow, who transform the black box space with works that innovate and challenge conventional dance forms, February 1 and 2, 4 shows, at the Florida Ballet, $35. u

Marty Stuart

Built to Last

PHOTO BY ANDREW VARNES

In October of 1672, Governor Manuel Cendoya selected a spot along a river in the Spanish colony of La Florida where a new, larger and sturdier fortification would be erected to replace a succession of wooden forts that had guarded the fledgling settlement of St. Augustine. The fort, the Castillo de San Marcos, still stands where Cendoya first thrust a spade into the earth to begin its 23-year construction. The Castillo’s days of protecting the residents of Northeast Florida from invading armies and pirates are long over. Today, the star-shaped fort is a National Monument maintained by the National Park Serves that draws more than 840,000 visitors inside its walls and to its upper levels overlooking Matanzas Bay.

 Protection for the town and its settlers was sorely needed. In 1668, pirates sacked the settlement. The Spanish governor and a small detachment of soldiers fought from inside the relative safety of a wooden fort but civilians were left to fend for themselves outside its walls. The pirates left the next day, leaving some 60 people dead. The marauders didn’t burn the town, which was interpreted as a sign that they would surely return.

 Tales of ghostly spirits at the Castillo are about as old as the fort itself. One legend says the spirit of Dolores Marti, the wife of Colonel Garcia Marti, haunts the site. The Colonel suspected his wife of cheating on him with Captain Manuel Abela, and the two disappeared shortly after. Others believe that the spirit of Chief Osceola, a Native American leader who was imprisoned here and died inside its walls, haunts the grounds. Stories of shadowy apparitions, misty shapes floating in the dungeon, invisible cold hands touching visitors, and Spanish soldiers staring out to the sea are just some of the reported spiritual happenings.

 While a series of previous forts at or near the site were constructed of wood, the Castillo is crafted of a porous limestone called coquina. The name is fitting because the “stone” is actually countless tiny shell fragments that have been compressed together over thousands of years. The coquina was quarried at a site across the bay on land inside present-day Anastasia State Park. Tons of blocks were cut from the ground, floated across the water and stacked to make its walls, some of which are 19 feet thick. The Spanish didn’t know it at the time, but they were building a near-impenetrable structure. The coquina walls didn’t break under cannon fire. Instead, cannon balls bounced off or sunk into them—as British Governor James Moore of Charleston discovered when he led forces in an attack on the town and fort in 1702.

 The Castillo is the only 17th Century military construction in the country and the oldest masonry fortress in the U.S. It is considered a prime example of the “bastion system” fortification, named for the projecting angles and diamond-shaped walls. The original concept for star-shaped forts was hatched by Michelangelo in the mid-1500s. The star shape eliminated all defensive “dead zones,” meaning the enemy could be fired upon from several points along the walls. Only one other fort in the world is built from coquina—the smaller Fort Matanzas, erected by the Spanish about 14 miles south of St. Augustine in 1742. u

Most

THE WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

Not warming up to the Christmas season just yet? Did the warm weather of November temper your enthusiasm for things holly and jolly, merry and bright? Fear not. Christmas will be here soon and Northeast Floridians know how to celebrate with a lengthy list of the best the season has to offer, from concerts and parades to light shows and family festivals. Now is the time to embrace this most wonderful time of year. It’s time to ho, ho, ho and go, go, go.

Let's Dance

The events calendar at the Florida Theatre is stuffed like a stocking over the fireplace this month. From concerts to ballets to plays, it's all presented on the stage of the historic Downtown venue. Highlights of the season include, three performances by the Community Nutcracker December 13 and 14, Mindi Abair’s I Can’t Wait for Christmas December 17 and a production of Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol December 22. For a seasonal show that veers out of the ordinary, the amazing dancers and aerial acrobats of Cirque Musica (pictured) stage their Holiday Wonderland on December 20, 7 PM. Tickets range from $30 to $100.

Sing, Sing a Song

Working on the Railroad

Since 1943, a train with local roots has motored north during the holidays, delivering presents to countless communities who could use some good cheer. Perhaps that’s never been more true than this year, when the CSX Santa Train made its 82nd run through Appalachia in late November. Following its traditional path, the train undertook the 110-mile journey from Shelbiana, Kentucky to Kingsport, Tennessee and, while chugging through towns that endured the rains and winds of Hurricane Helene, delivered more than 15 tons of toys, gifts and winter gear to thousands of families. “The CSX Santa Train is a cherished longstanding tradition and a significant part of CSX’s history,” says the Jacksonville-based rail transportation company’s president and CEO. “Strengthening the communities in which we serve is central to ONE CSX, and we are grateful for another year of giving back and delivering the magic of the Santa Train.”

Choral music and Christmas go together like eggnog and mistletoe. This season, two of the First Coast’s top chorus groups sing for a pair of holiday-themed performances. The St. Augustine Community Chorus presents Noel! Noel! December 14 and 15, 7:30 PM, inside the Cathedral Basilica. The concert ($10-$30) includes a mix of contemporary and classic songs, as well as accompaniment by organ, piano and wind instruments and the St. Augustine Youth Chorus. Speaking of kids and choruses: This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus and the group continues its year-long festivities with its annual Cool Side of Yuletide show, a mix of traditional carols and selections from John Rutter’s “Magnificat,” December 21, 3 PM, at Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church. Stick around for the audience sing-along ($15-$25).

Fiddling Around

When it comes to bluegrass music, there are few tunes or instruments Mark O’Connor can’t play. The Grammy-winning composer and fiddler brings his An Appalachian Christmas to life and to Jax on December 15, 5 PM, at Walker’s Landing on Amelia Island. In a performance featuring his wife Maggie playing fiddle and singing alongside, the concert includes a blend of bluegrass and American music genres and will see Mark playing the fiddle, acoustic guitar, mandolin and mandocello. The duo appears as part of the Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival series. Tickets are $75.

STOCKING STUFFERS

Short Takes on Other Holiday

Happenings

Author Meghan Quinn signs copies of her new book, How My Neighbor Stole Christmas, at Books-A-Million in Jax Beach on December 6. The tale is a take on the Dr. Seuss classic but this one is something of love story between two rivals—–the appropriately named and grinch-like Cole Black and a lover of all things holidays, Story Taylor. Deception, duplicity and eventually devotion ensue. ● Shop for gifts from a selection of more than 35 artisans who assemble around the historic swimming pool inside the Lightner Museum in St. Augustine on December 5, 5-8:30 PM. Patrons at the museum’s Holiday Market will enjoy live music from the Raisin Cake Orchestra while making holiday crafts and writing letters to Santa. Oh, and eats from Yamo Italian Street Food and Heart + Soul Food Truck. ● Broadway and the holidays collide as stars of the hit musical Wicked sing songs and banter with the audience for A Slightly Wicked Holiday Show, presented by FSCJ Artist Series December 17, 7:30 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts. The audience is invited to sing along and celebrate the season in a show that includes songs from the musicals Wicked, Phantom of the Opera, West Side Story and others, as well as a selection of holiday favorites. ● Despite being more than 75 years old, the story of idealistic George Bailey never grows old. In fact, It’s A Wonderful Life is being brought to life in a live 1940s-style radio broadcast by the Apex Theatre Studio December 20 and 21 on the Backyard Stage at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. Doors open at 6:30 PM each night, tickets are $25. ● Also down in the Oldest City, the St. Augustine Art Association hosts its monthly Art Walk  on December 6, 5-9 PM. Art galleries in the historic district open their doors for holiday gift shopping, an evening made even more beautiful because of the city’s Nights of Lights. ● One of the region’s largest homegrown holiday shows, this year’s Wehner’s Christmas Spectacular is inspired by the Radio City Rockettes. More than 100 dancers of all ages and accompanied by professional musicians perform December 17, 7:30 PM, at the ThrasherHorne Center. ● The Gainesville Orchestra travels to the First Coast as part of the EMMA Concert Series for a Holiday Pops concert on December 17, 7:30 PM, at Lewis Auditorium in St. Augustine. Tickets range from $5 to $40. ● It’s a longtime First Coast tradition and it rolls through the Oldest City once again. On December 7, the 67th St. Augustine Christmas Parade ushers in the holidays with floats, marchers, music and festive decorations. Even Santa makes an appearance. The parade commences at 9 AM at the Mission of Nombre de Dios and rambles through the historic district before finishing by the Visitor Information Center.

Light My Way

One of Jacksonville’s longest-running holiday traditions returns the evening of December 8. The annual Riverside Avondale Luminaria, a night when thousands of illuminated white paper bags line the streets of the historic neighborhoods, creating a spectacle of light, color and Christmas cheer. Everyone is invited to walk, ride bikes or drive through the neighborhoods and soak in the amazing show of lights, music and more. If you don’t live in the area, the Garden Club of Jacksonville hosts a free Luminaria Night Party with music, beverages, small bites and lawn games. Plus, there will be vendors selling homegrown and handmade items, honey, plants, artwork and more, 4-9 PM.

Have a Seat

Something is happening every night when Deck The Chairs lights up the Seawalk Pavilion park in Jax Beach. Opening night took place in late November and the celebration runs through New Year’s Day. In addition to the dozens of decorated lifeguard chairs, the event features a packed schedule of concerts, dance performance and other special events. Among the annual highlights are Tuba Christmas on Saturday, December 14. Picture tubas as far as you can see blowing out classic Xmas tunes. A Christmas Eve service is celebrated December 24, 5-7 PM, and a Pep Rally for this year’s Gator Bowl teams takes place December 27, 4 PM. All events are free.

North by Northeast

It’s a long way to the Arctic Circle from Northeast Florida. But that never stops the Beaches North Pole Express from chugging into the station at the Beaches Museum. Kids of all ages are invited to write letters to Santa, make holiday crafts, take photos with the big guy, enjoy cocoa and cookies and view the museum’s North Pole Express model train. Plus, a small, trackless train weaves through the park offering rides for kids. The trains get rolling December 14, 3-6 PM, and December 14, 10 AM-2 PM. The spirit of the season continues at the Beaches Museum for Christmas at the Cabin, December 19, 5-8 PM, a night of twinkling lights and carolers. Patrons can look forward to music and dance performances at the historic Beaches Museum Chapel, period décor and lights on display throughout the park, as well as an open fire for marshmallow roasting. A suggested donation of at least $5 is appreciated for both events.

Family Affair

Music to Our Ears

The Jacksonville Symphony invites all of Northeast Florida to step into the enchanting world of holiday magic with its annual Holiday Pops extravaganza. Broadway vocalists join the Symphony Chorus and the musicians of the orchestra to create a truly joyous series of seasonal shows. From timeless carols to Christmas favorites, every note resonates with the spirit of the season. There are six performances December 5-8 including a morning matinee December 6, 11 AM. Pictures with Santa are free to all concert goers. Santa takes his seat 60 minutes prior to each performance. Tickets range from $30-$92.

The forecast calls for snow (man-made snow, at least) at the second annual Holiday Celebration at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre the evening of December 7. Hosted by the Friends of the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, the family friendly celebration includes a range of special events such as a screening of Home Alone, face painting, a silent auction, and dozens of Christmas trees. Adding to the mood are the Flagler College Carolers, who will be strolling throughout the event prior to the film. Admission is free but organizers are asking that patrons bring canned goods or other non-perishable items for a food drive to support St. Francis House. Plus, there will be free hot chocolate and popcorn for kids, and the first 300 youngsters receive a free t-shirt. Gates open at 5 PM, the movie rolls at 7 PM.

You're a Mean One...

Road trip! Florida’s many theme parks and megaattractions readily embrace the holidays, but perhaps none quite like Universal Orlando Resort. Running daily through the end of the year, Universal hosts a pair of themed spectacles—The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Grinchmas, a celebration of the iconic Dr. Seuss villain, The Grinch. With festive decor, garland and lights adorning the streets of Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade pub, park-goers are engulfed in author J.K. Rowling’s imaginary world of wands, spells and magic potions. Hot butterbeer is poured and The Frog Choir sings daily. Not far away, there are live retellings of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” in the stage show, Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular.” See some Whos for yourself in Who-ville, adorned with whimsical ornaments and color. Tickets start at $80 per day.

Homes Sweet Homes

Arguably the best smelling holiday event in Jax is the Gingerbread Extravaganza. Each year, dozens of local civic groups, businesses and others create miniature buildings, homes and other whimsical displays—all made of gingerbread, candy, pretzels and other edible materials. In addition to the sweet architectural creations, patrons may browse the holiday gift shop and take a tour of the Merrill House Museum. Word has it Santa may even make an appearance on December 14, too. The event, a fundraiser for the Jacksonville Historical Society, takes place on select days and nights December 7-28 inside Old St. Andrews Church, across the street from VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. Tickets range from $5-$20. Please, no touching or eating the gingerbread houses.

What the Dickens?

Amelia Island’s annual Dickens on Centre, December 13-15, features a collection of seasonal special events, live music, reenactors dressed in period costume and good cheer aplenty. The event’s Christmas Market sees dozens of local and small-business vendors hawking all sorts of handmade goods—hand-painted oyster ornaments, jewelry, original artwork and crafts. While browsing the booths and tents peppered around downtown Fernandina Beach, be sure to wander down Oliver’s Alley, Cratchit’s Corner and the Peddler’s Village. There’s a free trolley to ferry shoppers from place to place. Santa makes appearances for photos in Tiny Tim’s Kid Zone.

Step to It

The Nutcracker ballet is the dance production most often associated with Christmas, and for good reason. However, perhaps coming in second place is Christmas With the Celts, a high-stepping, uberspirited production that blends ancient Irish carols and dance with contemporary songs and choreography. With 14 years of touring under their tap shoes. the dancers and musicians who make up Christmas With the Celts leap and twirl into Northeast Florida for a show December 17, 7:30 PM, at the Thrasher-Horne Center in Clay County.

Born to Run

Lace up your best running shoes, grab a Santa hat and some jingle bells for the 29th annual Festival of Lights 5K through the streets of San Marco. Perhaps the best part of the annual run is that after crossing the finish line, racers are invited to stick around and enjoy the Holiday Magic after-party featuring horse-drawn sleigh rides, miniature train rides, kids games, music and more. Proceeds from the event benefit Jacksonville Children’s Miracle Network medical centers, UF Health Jacksonville and Wolfson Children’s Hospital. Runners get moving Saturday, December 7; 1-mile fun run at 5 PM, 5K at 5:30 PM. Registration is $20-$50.

CHRISTMAS

Prepared by Olive My Pickle

These festive breadsticks are not only delicious but also make for a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday table. If you’d prefer not to make the muffuletta mix, Olive My Pickle has done it for you.

Ingredients:

● Pre-made pizza dough, the kind that comes in a tube

● ¼ cup butter, melted

● ¼ tsp Italian seasoning

● ½ tsp garlic powder

● sprinkle of Parmesan

● Muffuletta mix: mixed olives, fermented veggies (carrots, cauliflower, red peppers), fresh garlic, extra virgin olive oil, dried thyme, dried oregano, high mineral sea salt.

Instructions:

1. Open pizza dough and roll out to a 10" x 13" size

2. Mark the center point of the top of the dough. This is the top of your tree. Here, cut the dough to form a large triangle. With a pizza slicer, make a cut from the lower left corner to that top mark. Repeat on the right side—cut from lower right corner to top center mark.

3. Place two small triangles side by side on your baking sheet. Press together to make one large triangle.

4. Spread Muffuletta Olive Mix over your triangle.

5. Place the large triangle on top of your base.

6. Cut 1-inch horizontal slices into each side of your triangle from top to bottom without cutting straight through. This keeps your “tree trunk” intact.

7. Twist each stick.

8. Bake at 400 degrees for 20-22 minutes until golden brown.

9. Mix together melted butter, Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Brush onto baked tree. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy.

HOLIDAY DIY MAKE A 3D PAPER SNOWFLAKE

by K. Friday of Friday House for Cool Stuff Vintage

MATERIALS:

Paper (we used wallpaper scraps)

Scissors

Glue Stick or Hot Glue Gun

Snowflake Template

1. Cut twelve rectangles that measure 4 5/8 x 8 5/8 inches.

5. Trace your snowflake template onto each folded and glued rectangle.

2. Fold each long edge of the rectangle into the center.

6. Cut along the traced lines for each of the twelve sections.

7. Glue lengthwise in the center of this cut and folded rectangle and line up another exactly on top, and press down onto glued line. Repeat this until all twelve folded and cut sections are lined in a stack and glued lengthwise in the center only.

3. Glue along the lengthwise folded seam. Glue in the center only; you will eventually want the sections to be able to open a bit.

4. Fold each rectangle in half, so cut edges meet (perpendicular to the lengthwise seam you just glued, which you are folding onto itself).

8. Glue the top center of this stack to the bottom in the same way. You will be opening the stack into an open circle, forming the finished snowflake.

9. Voila!

If you wish to hang, punch a hole in the center of the top of one of the glued sections and thread ribbon, yarn, string or fabric to your desired length. If you want to fold the snowflake flat again after the season, don’t glue in step 8, attach with paper clips or temporary fasteners along the edges of the top and bottom sections. On December 13, Cool Stuff Vintage in Riverside hosts a holiday decorations workshop to make 3D Snowflakes.

Memories Made

Photographer Mark Krancer has been capturing images across Northeast Florida and from points around the globe for a decade. The photos he took of Jacksonville as the city was being battered by Hurricane Irma in 2017 were seen worldwide and even garnered a Pulitzer Prize nomination for his photo “Life in the River”—a stunning and dramatic picture (at right) of a statue in Memorial Park as the St. Johns River surged over its banks during the storm.

Many of Krancer’s favorite images have been cobbled together for a new, 148-page coffee table-style hardback titled Photographic Memory ($49.95). The project was more than a year in the making and required sifting through thousands of images to select the 100-plus that made the cut. Featured here are just a few that focus on Northeast Florida. u

Designed by Lindsay Powell Design and published by Powell Photographic

Abandoned Jacksonville Ford auto plant

In 2017, Hurricane Irma dealt a huge blow to the First Coast. I was prepared to hunker down… to ride out the storm reading books on photography in my Jacksonville apartment. Later, I chose to go out on the back side of the storm to shoot what would become the launching point of my photography career. The experience of shooting amid raging wind and water was a dangerous challenge, but I was fortunate to be able to document such a pivotal event.

At any given time, the stunning wild creatures of the South are amazing subjects.

But this shot of a rancher tending to his cattle in Palatka is a real gem for me.

As I guided my drone silently over the meandering cattle, careful not to disrupt their routine, I stumbled upon this unique view of farm life.

Cairns stacks near Marineland

Florida’s springs are Mother Nature’s resorts, with over 1,000 fresh water springs staying at a refreshing 72 degrees year round. Among them, the massive Devil’s Den Springs in Williston stands out, especially for scuba divers.

Aerial over Yankeetown, Florida

For a classic vehicle shoot, a couple wanted photos with their restored Thunderbird.

The bright neon lights of the Magic Beach Motel (Vilano Beach) provided the ideal vintage setting.

Top Dentists

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

This list is excerpted from the 2024 topDentists™ list, a database which includes listings for over 170 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 706-364-0853; 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

Disclaimer: This list is excerpted from the 2024 topDentists™ list, which includes listings for more than 170 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 2010-2024 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.

General Dentistry

Elizabeth R. Alfuente

Sean M. Altenbach

Gregory A. Archambault

Aruna Avanti

Joseph M. Barton

Alexander Beaver III

Cary Berdy

Jeffrey S. Bilotti

Christine F. Bojaxhi

Joseph Boulter 8823 Goodby’s Executive Dr. Jacksonville

Amy J. Bouvier Poblenz

LAZZARA ORTHODONTICS

436 Jacksonville Dr. Jacksonville Beach

Solomon G. Brotman

Richard C. Caven

CAVEN DENTAL GROUP 8930 RG Skinner Pkwy. Jacksonville

Michele L. Cavendish

Christina Choe

William James Clement II

Nicholas P. Comerford

Cueto

Roy F. David

Tracey B. David

Kristen De Bonis

Shelby Denman

CAVEN DENTAL GROUP 8930 RG Skinner Pkwy. Jacksonville

Robin F. Edwards

Felipe M. Falcao

Ian Mackenzie Farnham

FARNHAM DENTISTRY 11528 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville

Jacquelene G. Farnham

FARNHAM DENTISTRY 11528 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville

Thomas R. Farrell IV

Dina L. Fetner

Howard A. Fetner

Carla Field

Brian E. Floro

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

Joseph Lee

Young H. Lee

Leah K. Lovett

ISLAND GROVE DENTAL 96425 Pine Grove Rd. Fernandina Beach

RIVER CITY DENTAL

Andrew W. Maples

Brian W. Maples

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

Alicia Matayoshi

Ryan McAlpin

James J. McCall

Amy F. McMahan

Jillian K. Medure

Hanna D. Mularkey

Richard C. Mullens

Holly Nadji

Kevin L. Neal

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

Charles A. Poblenz

Kristan D. Podvia

Jeffrey S. Prieto

Eugene Y. 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

William P. Shaeffer

Willette L. Shaeffer-Crabtree

Julio Sixto

Kevin W. Snyder

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

ECCELLA SMILES & AESTHETICS

Pkwy.

Laura M. Weaver

Penney Weeks

Jacqueline West

J. Christopher Williams

Michael C. Winter

Rod Zimmerman SMILES BY Z 615 A1A N. Ponte Vedra Beach

Endodontics

Leandro R. Britto

Thomas A. Brown, Jr.

Andrew Calhoun

Thomas P. Currie

Christopher M. Geric GERIC ENDODONTICS 4788 Hodges Blvd., Suite 208 Jacksonville

John P. Lundgren

Gary R. Manasse GERIC ENDODONTICS 4788 Hodges Blvd. Suite 208 Jacksonville

Joseph C. Mavec

Alexander R. McClure

Daniella S. Peinado ENDODONTICS | DENTAL 13241 Bartram Park Blvd. Suite 1601

Arthur Popkowski

Robert Radel

Michael R. Smith

Barry H. Stevens FIRST COAST ENDODONTICS 2365 Park St.

John M. Sullivan

Emily Weldon Tyler

Claudio H. Varella

Andrew L. Witten Paul Wohlgemuth

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Stephanie R. Henley

Richard W. Joseph

Zane Khan

John J. Mazzuoccolo

Samira Meymand

MEYMAND ORAL

MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

11571 San Jose Blvd., Unit 1

Jacksonville

Clive B. Rayner

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 W. Vaughn Holland

John G. Lazzara

LAZZARA ORTHODONTICS 436 Jacksonville Dr. Jacksonville Beach 190 Marketside Ave. Suite A Nocatee

Julia Lipkin

Valerie Minor

Brad Mokris

Alan R. Ossi

Shreena Patel

Shawn M. Perce

Jason Rice

Karen K. Zell

Pediatric Dentistry

Ivis Alvarez

Stephen D. Cochran

Ross H. Fishman

Beth A. Kailes

Jila J. Mahajan

Lindsay Maples

Elaine S. Martinez-Koziol

Gary R. Myers

Marinela M. Nemetz

Flavio M. Soares

Michael W. Stratton

Robert V. Weaver

Periodontics

Richard E. Aguila

JACKSONVILLE DENTAL SPECIALISTS

Cosmetic Dentists

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.

Approximately 20 AACD members practice in the Northeast Florida area, including:

Jason S. Olitsky

Broc Flores

Susan Prater-Kudlats

Jose M. Martinez

Megan Moshea

Blanca Martinez-Hoppe

James G. Trantham IV

Kevin L. Neal

Michael C. Winter

Eric S. Burgess

Richard A. Perallon

James W. Bolton III

Jonathan A. Montoya

Neal Patel

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

Alan E. Fetner

Alex Fetner

Michael J. Fetner

Mary S. Hartigan

Angeline A. Kuznia

Roger D. Robinson, Jr. NORTHEAST FLORIDA PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS 3595 Cardinal Point Dr. Jacksonville

Kirk H. Young

Prosthodontics

Nidal S. Elias

Matthew Nawrocki

JACKSONVILLE DENTAL SPECIALISTS 11512 Lake Mead Ave. Suite 532

Jacksonville

Robert Nemetz

Joshua E. Perry

Behzad Rajaei ASAP DENTAL CARE

Five Common Smile Issues Your Dentist Can Fix

3

1

Chipped Teeth

Chipped teeth are one of the most common cosmetic dental problems and usually occur due to an injury or trauma caused by chewing hard objects like ice cubes or hard candy. The chip may be small but can still cause cosmetic issues, resulting in an uneven and unsightly smile. Fortunately, this can be fixed with porcelain veneers or crowns. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that fit over the existing teeth while crowns cover the entire surface of the affected tooth.

Uneven or Crooked Teeth

Uneven or crooked teeth can cause cosmetic issues such as difficulty in biting and chewing food properly as well as affecting the aesthetics of your smile. Dentists use a variety of treatments to fix this issue. In some cases, cosmetic bonding or veneers may be used to reshape the teeth and close any gaps between them for an even look. For more severe cases, orthodontic treatments such as braces or clear aligners can help move the teeth into proper alignment and restore your smile.

4

Discolored Teeth

Teeth discoloration is one of the most common dental issues caused by food, drinks, smoking, aging, and certain medications. To fix this issue, ask for professional-grade whitening products or porcelain veneers that cover up any discoloration and make your teeth look brighter and whiter again.

2

Missing Teeth

Missing teeth can have a significant cosmetic impact on the overall appearance of your smile. Thankfully, there are solutions for this issue as well. Dental implants are one of the most commonly used treatments for missing teeth and involve placing an artificial tooth root into the jawbone which is then topped with a lifelike porcelain restoration that looks and functions just like a natural tooth.

5

Gaps Between Teeth

Gaps between teeth can have significant impact on the overall appearance of your smile but are easily fixable with cosmetic dentistry. Veneers or dental bonding may be used to fill any space between the teeth and restore your smile as well as improve oral function. In some cases, orthodontic treatments such as braces or clear aligners may also be used to close the gaps between teeth.

get to know your local Dental Team!

AT 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 six 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.

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 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 prosthetics. 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 Annual Membership Plan.* This plan offers tremendous value, including unlimited exams and x-rays, two cleanings, and discounts on most dental treatments.

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 365 days per year, 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!

*Not a dental insurance plan

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 is highly skilled in cosmetic dentistry, surgical extractions and implants, root canals, clear aligners and removable appliances, and sedation dentistry. She is fluent in English, Arabic, French, and basic Spanish. She enjoys treating patients of all ages. She graduated from the University of Florida 2014. After graduation, she enrolled in an abundance of CE courses to help sharpen and expand her dental skills. Dr. Abboud is a member of Academy of General Dentistry.

Nadeem Ahmed, DMD, was born in Huddersfield, England, and moved to the U.S. in 1987. After receiving a Bachelor of Science in Biology, he graduated with honors from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. Dr. Ahmed received additional dental training from the prestigious Las Vegas Institute of Advanced Dental Studies. He hosts Leesburg’s 790 AM radio program, The Tooth, The Whole Tooth, and Nothing But The Tooth, a weekly Saturday morning radio show that presents entertaining dental and oral health information. Dr. Ahmed volunteers at the Orlando Dental Research Clinic, treating underserved patients and participating in our Annual Give Kids a Smile program.

Yevah Cueto, DMD, received a Bachelor of Science in nutritional and food science from the University of Florida, followed by her dental degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) School of Dental Medicine. As such, she loves researching the impact of food on patients’ health. She has worked in the dental field since 2006 in various positions, including administration, patient care, and management. Dr. Cueto also spent a year treating patients in an underserved community in the Florida Panhandle, where access to dental care was limited. As a Jacksonville native, Dr. Cueto loves giving back to the community by participating in charitable events and providing free dental care. She is a member of the Florida Dental Association and the American Dental Association. Dr. Cueto is fluent in both English and Russian.

Behzad Rajaei, DDS, MSc, received his dental degree and completed the Advanced Standing Program for International Dentists at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of the University of Southern California. He also has a dental degree from the University of the East College of Dentistry in the Philippines and a Master of Science in Prosthodontics from Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in Iran. Dr. Rajaei taught in the Prosthodontics Department at Azad University in Tehran for four years, and was a faculty member in the Prosthodontics Department at USC for two years. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, and Central Florida Dental Association. Dr. Rajaei is fluent in both English and Farsi.

Nathaniel Williams, DMD, graduated cum laude from the University of Las Vegas School of Dental Medicine in 2011 and was commissioned into Active-Duty service with the U.S. Navy upon graduation. He completed a General Practice Residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth and an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. After 10 years of military service, Dr. Williams transitioned to civilian practice in 2017. As a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. Williams offers IV sedation; regular and wisdom teeth extraction; regular, zygomatic, and craniofacial implants; bone grafting; sinus lifts; nerve lateralization; facial reconstruction; preprosthetic surgery, orthognathic surgery, TMJ management, and joint replacement; sleep apnea appliances and surgery; biopsies; cosmetic surgery and dermal fillers.

Jae Hyun Lee, DDS, received his dental degree from the New York University College of Dentistry, where he was recognized for outstanding academic performance by the Omicron Kappa Upsilon honor society. He is skilled in implant dentistry and spent substantial time delivering general dentistry services to underserved and homeless populations in the Bronx, NY, before joining ASAP Dental Care.

Ahmad Shbeb, DDS, earned his DDS from the University of Aleppo, Syria in 2010, followed by three years Master’s training in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. He later moved to the United States and completed a residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry at NYU Langone Health. He is passionate about educating patients about treatment and providing superior care.

Shaista Najmi, DMD, earned her Doctorate in Dental Medicine from Boston University, MA in September 1999. She began practicing in 2000 as a General Dentist & spent many years in Manhattan, New York. She completed her 2-year Implantology Training in Surgical & Prosthetic Treatment in June of 2010 at New York University and received her fellowship award in Dental Implants from the International Congress of Implantologists. She is an active member of ICOI & the American Academy of General Dentistry. She understands the importance of caring for the entire family and provides a variety of dental services to improve your smile, appearance & self-confidence.

Jacksonville Dental specialists

Specializing in Full Mouth Rehabilitation

OUR 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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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-

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.

Nawrocki, DMD, MS

EDUCATION

B.S. University of Florida; M.S. in Dental Science

D.M.D. University of Florida College of Dentistry

Specialist Certificate in Prosthodontics

MEMBERSHIPS & AFFILIATIONS

Florida Prosthodontic Association

American College of Prosthodontics Florida Dental Association

American Dental Association

Northeast District Dental Association

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.

Richard E. Aguila, DDS, MHS

EDUCATION

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

BOARD CERTIFICATION

Diplomate, American Board of Periodontology

Certified in Conscious Sedation, American Dental Society of Anesthesiology

Matthew

Caven Dental Group

DR. 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 individual 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 provide expert advice with compassion and a dedication to being your dental advocate. With the advanced digital capabilities of modern dentistry, we can provide gentle remedies to tough problems.

Call today to see how we can serve you.

★★★★★ “No other dental office has ever made to feel more welcome, comfortable, and cared for than by both the friendly competence of the staff and dentists at Caven Dental Group.”

— Amanda

★★★★★ “Caven Dental Group offers cutting edge technology and he is an Expert in his field. He is also caring and kind. His staff is fabulous! I will never trust anyone else with my dental care.”

— Leslie

★★★★★ “I appreciate the clinical excellence and the warm engagement with the whole team.”

— Diane

Doctors Lake Family Dental

Fernando Padron, DDS, Adriana Padron, DDS, Yakov Shimunov, DDS, and Hansen, DDS

DOCTORS LAKE FAMILY DENTAL IS PROUD TO INTRODUCE ITS EXCEPTIONAL TEAM OF DENTISTS who bring expertise, compassion, and innovation to patient care. Among them are Drs. Fernando and Adriana Padron, a talented husband-and-wife duo with extensive training in prosthodontics and implant dentistry.

Dr. Fernando Padron earned his dental degree in 2010 from the University of Venezuela. He completed his Prosthodontic residency at Nova Southeastern University, where he met Adriana. Selected from hundreds of candidates, he later completed a prestigious implant fellowship. Dr. Padron is known for his comprehensive approach, offering a blend of general dentistry, oral surgery, and advanced implant care.

Dr. Adriana Padron, born in Venezuela, pursued her dental degree in Florida at Nova Southeastern University. She refined her skills at the University of Illinois in Chicago, graduating as a Prosthodontist in 2016. Certified as a Fellow by the American Board of Prosthodontics, she combines technical precision with compassionate care. The Padron’s,

along with their children Emilia and Daniel, relocated to Fleming Island to serve the community.

Dr. Yakov Shimunov, originally from Queens, NY, brings a commitment to patient-centered care. A graduate of New York University College of Dentistry, he completed his residency in Queens before moving to Florida. Passionate about staying at the forefront of dental advancements, he strives to deliver outstanding care to his patients.

Dr. Hansen, a Boston native, combines a love for wellness with exceptional dentistry. A graduate of the University of Utah School of Dentistry, he focuses on holistic care and improving lives through transformative treatments. When not at work, he enjoys hiking and spending time with his Miniature Australian Shepherd.

Together, this team exemplifies excellence, dedication, and care in serving the Jacksonville community. Providing compassionate, personalized dental care with excellence, innovation, and a focus on lifelong oral health

endodontics | Dental

Daniella S. Peinado, DDS & Jenna Hart, DMD

It is our pleasure to welcome you to endodontics | dental, the office of Doctors Daniella Peinado and Jenna Hart We are a team of highly trained endodontists (root canal specialists) and our mission is to provide you with the highest quality care in endodontics.

Dr. Daniella Peinado has practiced dentistry for 30 years. 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 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. Dr. Peinado holds a position as a Clinical Professor at the University of Florida College of Dentistry Department of Endodontics. She 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. Jenna Hart is a triple gator, obtaining her BS, DMD and MS in Endodontics at The University of Florida. She is board certified and a diplomate of the American Association of Endodontists. She has been involved in many community outreach dental programs throughout Florida and has traveled abroad providing dental services to underserved areas. She has a passion for delivering high quality endodontic treatment and compassionate care for her patients. Dr. Hart’s passion for dentistry began early on while assisting her father in his dental practice. She became fascinated with endodontics for its ability to relieve patients’ pain and make a significant difference in their lives. The immediate relief and

long-term benefits of endodontic treatments solidified her dedication to this specialized field.

endodontics | dental is a privately owned practice and it was designed to reflect Dr Peinado’s and Dr Hart’s 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.

endodontics | dental have partnered with most dental insurances and their friendly, committed and caring staff will ensure you receive the maximum benefits available to you. endodontics | dental has two convenient locations to serve you better, one in the South Bartram area and one in Nocatee/ Ponte Vedra.

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

Farnham dentistry

MacKenzie Farnham, DDS

DR. 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.

The Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics & Implant Dentistry

Dedicated Specialists in the Restoration & Replacement of Teeth

As 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.

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.

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.

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.

Enhancement • Dental Implant Restorations

Dental Reconstructions • Custom Complete Dentures

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

Martinez Dental Solutions

General, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry

DR. JOSE M. MARTINEZ HAS BEEN PRACTICING THE ART OF DENTISTRY FOR 30 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, 26 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

MartinezDentalSolutions.com 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

Meymand Oral Maxillofacial Surgery

Dr Samira Meymand

DR. SAMIRA “SAM” MEYMAND, A HIGHLY AWARDED AND ACCOMPLISHED ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGEON, took the path less traveled by most females in the field of surgery. Half of most dental school classes are currently women. Only five to ten percent of these women apply to specialize in oral surgery, are accepted, complete training, and obtain board certification. This is partly due to the length of training required (an additional 12 to 15 years), which can be prohibitive to starting a family. Since there are few women in the field, Dr. Meymand feels it is important to encourage and empower other women to enter fields such as surgery.

Dr. Meymand loves the training, discipline, and challenge of being a leader, as well as the camaraderie that comes with being in the military. The U.S. Navy was a natural fit for her. She completed her Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery residency at the National Capital Consortium, Naval Hospital Bethesda in 2008. Her residency coincided with the heights of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. As a result, the pressures of residency were amplified when hundreds of soldiers were expedited to Bethesda to be treated for serious—and sometimes devastating—facial injuries resulting from IED blasts and bullet wounds. “It was an honor to treat these soldiers and be brave for the families of these heroes that put their lives on the line.”

The military helped prepare Dr. Meymand for the challenge of starting her own business. “Leadership, sacrifice, and teamwork are important qualities I learned in the military. If you have a strong work ethic and surround yourself with great people, then great things can happen. I am blessed to have an amazing staff. We work as a team to take great care of our patients with compassion and love,” she says.

Dr. Meymand’s staff members also help run the office when Dr. Meymand performs her U. S. Navy Reserve duties as the Executive Officer of NMRTC Bethesda, Maryland. In her prior role, she served as a Commanding Officer of the 14th Dental Company, 4th Dental Battalion. She was board-selected to be the Officer-In-Charge of a joint field exercise in 2018 for one year where her team of 51 (Doctors, Nurses, Ancillary Services, and Corpsmen) participated in a two-week mass casualty exercise. “This experience leading a medical unit in a real-world military medicine scenario was an honor and the reality of mass casualty medical training. Women play a crucial role in the setup, organization, and treatment of mass casualty victims.”

As a Surgeon, a Navy CAPTAIN, and a business owner, Dr. Meymand empowers other women to achieve their goals, whether in the military or in her office. She is dual-boarded as a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and a Diplomate of the National Dental Board of Anesthesiology. She served on the Jacksonville Dental Society Executive Board for 5 years and served as President from 2017 to 2018. She also co-founded the Jacksonville Women’s Dental Society and serves on the Baptist Health Women in Medicine Executive Board. Dr. Meymand’s practice is conveniently located in Mandarin and offers the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures, various levels of anesthetic and sedation surgery, and spa treatments such as Botox and Juvederm.

Christopher Williams, DMD, MAGD Biological

Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry

MANY PEOPLE HAVE BEEN HEARING MORE AND MORE ABOUT BIOLOGICAL DENTISTRY …so what’s Biological Dentistry and what’s different about it? Well first of all, it is not a recognized specialty of the American Dental Association or the State of Florida but rather it is an emphasis on minimally invasive dentistry, whenever possible, and the use of dental materials that minimize plastics, heavy metals and fluoride in favor of silicates, ceramics and zirconia which are believed to be more compatible with human health.

Not only do Biological dentists tend to not use metal restorations, most also have additional training to remove metal safely from your mouth. We also shy away from fluoride in the water we use and the materials and solutions we place in your mouth. Biological Dentists work closely with western trained physicians as well as alternative medicine doctors, naturopaths, chiropractors, physical therapists, acupuncturists, and more, doing our part to help heal the whole body. A few websites to learn more are www.iaomt.org; tomlevymd.com (He wrote a book called The Toxic Tooth); and quicksilverscientific. com (all about removing toxins from the body).

Dr Williams (he goes by Chris) is a big fan of conventional dentistry as taught by the Universities (especially Florida) as evidenced by his Mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry. He also is an advocate for Biological Dentistry (again not recognized by the State of Florida) as evidenced by his Naturopath in Dental Medicine (NMD) by the ANMA. He has studied extensively, both here and abroad, the use and placement of ceramic (zirconia oxide) dental implants. His hours are by appointment only, and you may call if you have questions or would like to schedule. Thank you to taking the time to read this article. I invite you to learn more, in order to be fully informed of your options and choices when it comes to your health.

About Dr. Williams

EDUCATION

D.M.D. University of Florida College of Dentistry

FELLOWSHIPS & ADVANCED TRAINING

Master, Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD)

Fellow, Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVIF)

North American Academy of Facial Orthotropics (NAAFO)

American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM)

The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT)

International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine (IABDM)

International Academy of Ceramic Implantology (IAOCI)

FLORIDA DENTAL LICENSE DN10995

connect:

Joseph R. Boulter

DMD, MAGD, ICOI Diplomate

DR. JOSEPH BOULTER IS A HIGHLY EXPERIENCED DENTIST AND RENOWNED LECTURER in the field of implant dentistry. He specializes in advanced dental implant techniques and shares his knowledge globally, staying in the forefront of dental innovations. He is committed to personalized care that addresses your unique needs and concerns. His specialized services include dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontic care (Invisalign and traditional techniques), restorative treatments, and preventive care.

Dedication to learning, growing and staying current in his field allows Dr. Boulter to provide the best care to patients, their families, and friends. He is a Master in the Academy of General Dentistry which less than 2% of dentists earn. He is also a Diplomate with the International Congress of Oral Implantologists showing his ongoing commitment as a leader in the dental implant community. Your journey to a beautiful smile starts with Dr. Boulter. Experience the difference of working with a dentist who not only practices but also teaches the latest techniques in implant dentistry.

About Dr. Boulter:

EDUCATION

D.M.D. University of Florida College of Dentistry

Bioprogressive Orthodontics Training

University of Florida-Facial Pain Mini Residency, Two Year Esthetic Dentistry Continuum, Two Year General Dentistry Continuum Beaches Implant Study Club

Director-North Florida Implant Continuum

Lecturer-University of Florida Residents

AFFILIATIONS

International Congress of Oral Implantologists Academy of General Dentistry Academy of Osseointegration

International Team for Implantology European Association for Osseointegration

731-0432 • www.DrBoulter.com

Geric Endodontics

Microscopic Root Canal Therapy

AT 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.

C.J. Henley, DMD

Cosmetic • Family • Dentistry

At 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

FOR OVER 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 joined the practice in 2022. She especially loves to treat and educate young patients about the importance of 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!

Blanca Martinez-Hoppe, DMD, PA

Hodges Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

DR. 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.

Joy Orthodontics

AT 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. This year, Dr. Wahl and her husband welcomed their first child, and they are so excited to be parents!

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!

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

Lazzara Orthodontics

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

DRS. 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.

WELCOME 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!

Leah K. Lovett, DMD

River City Dental • Island Grove Dental

DR. 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.

About Dr. Lovett:

EDUCATION

BS, University of FL

DMD, University of FL

connect:

MEMBERSHIPS

ADA, FDA, Academy of General Dentistry

Eccella Smiles & Aesthetics

Meet Dr. Shelby Sox

DR. SHELBY SOX, A JACKSONVILLE BEACH NATIVE, embarked on her educational journey at the University of Florida. There, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Food Science, followed by a Doctorate in Dental Medicine from UF College of Dentistry. Dr. Sox began her career in General Dentistry in New Jersey, practicing for two years before returning to her hometown. She has since dedicated herself to serving the Jacksonville Beach community that she holds dear.

When she’s not in the office, Dr. Sox enjoys traveling with her husband, spending quality time with family and friends, playing with her two dogs, and cheering on the Gators!

(904) 585-2463

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

AFTER 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.

Northeast Florida Periodontics & Dental Implants

Roger

D. Robinson Jr.,

D.M.D., M.S. Diplomate, American Board of Periodontology Fellow, International College of Dentists

3595 Cardinal Point Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32257

P: (904) 737-2040

www.dentalimplantsofjacksonville.com

Meet Dr. Z

DR. ROGER D. ROBINSON JR. is a Periodontist and is recognized as a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. He is also a Fellow of the International College of Dentists. Dr. Robinson has been in private practice since 2006. He has extensive training in all phases of periodontal therapy and specializes in dental implants. Additionally, he is constantly increasing his knowledge and surgical skill set with innovative techniques and procedures. 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.

Jacksonville’s Weekend Beachside Concierge Dentist

DR. ROD ZIMMERMAN IS A PASSIONATE AND EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL.

He is a one-of-a-kind, caring and patient-focused artistic dentist who is committed to excellence.

Dr. Z is conveniently available weekends, Friday-Sunday, so you don’t have to miss work, or you may have a dental need when no one else is available.

With over 35 years practicing, Dr. Z is highly specialized to offer concierge dental services ranging from emergencies, like toothache or broken tooth to high-end cosmetic makeovers and precision dental implants to comprehensive full arch, “All in 4” or “All of X” dental care. Dr. Z personalizes your visit. Yes, it’s a one-on-one rendezvous with someone who genuinely listens to your dental needs, and commits to perfecting your smile with the utmost care.

Visit Dr. Z’s website to schedule a “FREE, NO CHARGE” VIRTUAL Dentist Consult Today!

B.S. Tulane University

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

CERTIFICATION

Albert Einstein Medical Center (Endodontic Certification)

DR. BARRY H. STEVENS‘ PRACTICE IS LIMITED TO ENDODONTIC (ROOT CANAL) CARE. Located in historic Riverside, First Coast Endodontics’ warm and attentive team provide diagnosis and therapy with stateof-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. Dr. Stevens is a Fellow of the American College of Dentists and the International College of Dentists.

(904) 388-1220

About Dr. stevens:

a family Oasis

“It’s worth the 21-year wait,” exclaims Caryn K. of her “dream home,” Cedar Shake Retreat in St. Augustine. Caryn grew up in Atlanta and attended Florida State University. After graduating, she and her best friend decided to move to the Jacksonville area. She began work in St. Johns County Schools and met her husband Tom, a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, at that same best friend’s wedding.

BY LAUREN WEEDON HOPKINS

PHOTOS BY POLINA PIGULEVSKY PHOTOGRAPHY

“Spelling out the house number was Caryn’s idea,” notes Kelly. “The letters are custom made and I selected the font and the size. You would be surprised how big they are!”

The couple settled into the community, welcoming their first son in 2000. Then, Tom got a job offer he could not refuse, and the family moved to Northern Virginia in 2002.

“I wanted to stay two years, but that turned to six,” laughs Caryn. During that time, their son, now 22, and daughter, 19, were born. Next, Tom’s career took them to Wilmington, Delaware and a home in Chadds Ford, right outside Philadelphia—where they lived for 15 years.

In 2015, the family purchased a home in St. Augustine to escape the cold Pennsylvania winters and lived there full time during the COVID-19 pandemic. They enjoyed the “walkable, bike-able and golf cart-able” community and decided to purchase a lot there on the Intracoastal in 2020.

Building a home from the ground up can be a challenge but doing it from 850 miles away is even more difficult. The home builder introduced Caryn to Kelly Challberg, owner and principal designer of Draper Grey Interiors, who specializes in full-service design from start to finish. “Kelly made it easy,” says Caryn. “Working with Kelly is a true collaboration.”

“I understood Caryn’s design aesthetic and could work closely with the builder on the exterior and interior,” says Kelly. One design element especially important to Caryn

was utilizing natural materials. Kelly notes she was interested in featuring real wood to “gracefully age and get better over time.”

“One of my favorite things about the house is the cedar shake,” says Caryn of the exterior siding. “It reminds me of the farmhouse look.”

They have also incorporated the 1800s farmhouse Tom grew up in rural Pennsylvania, which had no electricity when his family first moved there in the 1970s. Tom’s mother was preparing to sell the home because his father had passed away and they came across some original bricks stacked up in the basement. Tom knew he wanted to incorporate the bricks somehow in his forever home. They are now part of the outdoor fireplace. “It’s a conversation starter,” says Kelly. “The family has come full circle and it’s really special.”

Family is very important and Kelly notes it was central to Caryn’s vision for her home. She wanted it to be a place where her grown children would want to come back to and bring their friends. “This is an entertaining house and a hub where everyone can come together and be comfortable,” says Kelly. “In designing every room, that concept was top of mind.”

“Tom caught this marlin in Cabo 12 years ago,” Caryn says of the cast hanging in his office.

“He donated the meat to a school there.”

Kelly named her company after her beloved childhood pet, a cat named Grey. “Animals are important and should be considered in design decisions,” she says. “We make the investment up front for durability and for real life. Dogs are going to chew and kids are going to spill.” The family has two dogs.

Every color, accessory and piece of furniture in the home reflects its beautiful natural surroundings. The family enjoys the stunning views and wanted to build upon the marsh, the sky, the water and the sunsets. “The home has an open concept flow,” Kelly adds. “The featured blues when you walk in are lighter and as you transition room to room, the blues become darker the deeper you get into the home.”

The overall vibe is serene and low key.

One room especially fun to design is for future grandchildren and is now utilized by a niece and a nephew, as well as family friends. “Most of the home has a coastal theme, but this one has hints of nautical,” says Kelly. “There are sailboats in their backyard and Caryn wanted to echo that. We have rope accents and boat cleats on the custom-made bunkbeds.”

The pool area was designed with entertaining in mind, featuring plenty of seating and providing a resort-type experience. The flooring is sand blasted marble, another natural material. Unique elements include bowls that produce fire placed on columns and a swim-up bar with glow-in-the-dark tiles on the built-in stools.

The summer kitchen was a labor of love. When selecting the tiles, Caryn had so many favorites, she decided to incorporate them all. “The effect is a patchwork quilt of each one unique and hand-painted in Portugal,” says Kelly, who laid them out first and numbered every tile to ensure the overall desired effect before it was installed.

This attention to detail and commitment to telling the story of her family shine through in every room. When the family returned to Florida and moved into their home in July 2023, 21 years later, it was the right time. “We put our heart and soul into the home,” adds Caryn. “We feel so blessed.” u

Classic Christmas

Classic Christmas is all about celebrating the season in a way that is warm, nostalgic and enduringly elegant. This trend is inspired by very traditional elements such as

Chase and Wonder’s first-ever range of Christmas Crackers, $65 per pack, are designed to elevate your table this Christmas. Each Cracker is hand rolled in England, and filled with a hat, a joke, and a candle with a 15-hour burn time. Plus, each guest who cracks one open receives a signature fragrances to enjoy.

 Dazzle is the most stylish rocking horse out there. With a striking black & white houndstooth body, he is guaranteed to wow and is sure to be the focal point of any room in the house. Dazzle, $150, is joined by his pocket buddy Jet, who is a little horse character that features the same bold black and white houndstooth design. Complete with a complementary leatherette bridle and saddle that little ones will love, this rocking horse by Little Bird Told Me, is a statement piece, blending classic playful charm with a contemporary twist.

 Soften your holiday statement with a Williamsburg Winter Wreath, $179, by Grandin Road. Ornaments are flocked for a velvety visual, featuring subtle holiday hues and hints of vibrant gold. It’s a touch of luxury without feeling over the top, and exactly the warmth you’ve been looking for near the hearth.



Add a magical touch to your Christmas table setting with a festive table runner, $35. Dotted with hedgehogs, badgers, hares and squirrels in a snowy festive forest on a rich olive ground, this heart-warming design by Sophie Allport is sure to make everyone at the table smile. Matches perfectly with the collection’s napkins and placemats.

This is Huxley, the dachshund, an extra-cute hanging decoration made from recycled metal, $20. Each Adams & Mack Christmas tree decoration is individually crafted by hand in solid metal using traditional techniques and plated in brass.

Smooth Sailing

Ten tips to ensure your home remodel project starts and ends as planned

The beginning of a new year is a fairly common time for homeowners to consider renovations and remodeling projects. Some of the undertakings will be modest in scale—new paint, fresh carpet or tiles, maybe new trees and shrubs for the backyard. Others, those with larger budgets and including things such as removing walls, adding a new door or window, and installing new HVAC systems, will require professional help, permits from local building channels and the like. Some people can handle the extra paperwork and labor on their own. Most cannot and, truth be told, shouldn’t even try.

So, if a home remodeling pro is needed, consider these suggestions before deciding who to hire and when to start.

Establish effective two-way communication with the home remodeler.  It’s essential to have good communication for a smooth home remodeling project. Does the remodeler listen? Does he or she answer questions clearly and candidly? Can you reach him when you need? Does he return phone calls promptly? Does he let you know when problems arise and work with you on solving them?

Make sure you are compatible with the contractor. You’ll spend a lot of time with your remodeler so it’s important to have a good rapport and trust in him or her.

Set a clear and mutual understanding about the schedule.  You and your home remodeler should agree on the schedule up front to avoid conflict and problems later in the project.

Request a written proposal. Often, two people remember the same conversation differently. Get the proposal in writing and work with the remodeler to ensure it reflects your wishes.

Get a clear and mutual understanding on miscellaneous details up front. There are a lot of little details that need to be settled before work starts. What times of day will they be working? How will he or she access the property? How will cleanup be handled? How will they protect your property?

Remember to be flexible.  Remodeling is an interruption of your

normal life. Remember to be flexible during the project so that you can handle the unexpected and go with the flow.

Discuss and agree on how change orders will be handled. With home remodeling there is always the chance you may want to change materials or other project details during the job. Before work starts, make sure you agree with your remodeler about how these changes will be handled. Also understand that changes could affect the schedule and the budget, so it’s important you have all changes in writing.

Agree on a well-written contract that covers all the bases. The contract should include these elements: a timetable for the project, price and payment schedule, detailed specifications for all products and materials, insurance information, permit information, procedures for handling change orders, lien releases, provisions for conflict resolution, and more.

Ask for a written lien waiver from the home remodeler upon completion of the work. If the remodeler hires subcontractors for portions of the work, then it is their responsibility to see the subcontractors compensated. In order to ensure this has been done and to protect yourself, ask for a written lien waiver when the work is finished. This document will verify everyone has been paid.

Establish a project plan, covering all phases and dependencies in the work. Plan your big picture goals with the remodeler and discuss your needs. Hire a remodeler who will plan with you, listen to concerns and answer questions. u

Source: National Association of Home Builders, From How to Hire Your Dream Remodeler by Tom Higgins, Superior Products Home Improvement

WALK RIGHT IN

Flooring is a true heavy lifter of interior design. Not only does it set the tone for an entire space, but it has to be practical, functional and stand up to everything that is, quite literally, thrown at it. And for homeowners considering an upgrade heading into 2025, there are a few wood flooring trends to consider, such as wide planks, warm and earthy tones, and elegant patterns. “Wide planks create an organic, unbroken flow that makes rooms appear more expansive and connected to nature,” says Darwyn Ker, managing director of Woodpecker Flooring. “This style has become a popular choice for open-plan living spaces, which continue to be popular as we enter the new year.”

K er says there’s been a strong consumer shift towards natural, calming interiors that bring depth and comfort to the home. “Wooden flooring in earthy tones, such as rich walnuts, honeyed browns and soft oak shades, embodies this movement, adding a sense of serenity and grounding.” In addition, “patterns like herringbone and chevron add visual interest without overwhelming a space,” he says. “Plus, homes are working harder with multifunctional spaces that are more commonplace than ever before. Combining patterns with straight boards can provide a sense of structured elegance, making smaller spaces feel luxurious.” u

Good to Glow

Few things evoke old-time romance and mystery quite like an historic lighthouse located on a remote island. While the remoteness is long since passed, the St. Augustine Lighthouse and its adjacent Keeper’s House retain plenty of charm and beauty, especially during the holiday season. As the year comes to a close, visitors to the Anastasia Island beacon can partake in Lighthouse Illuminations: Tides, Tidings and Trees, an annual celebration of the 147-year-old landmark. Daytime admission passes allow guests inside the striped tower and the keeper’s house to enjoy the seasonally decorated grounds, museum and other buildings. As the sun goes down, the grounds around the historic property glow with lights and garlands, as well as 21 adorned trees, each themed and telling a distinct story. If your knees and muscles will allow, make the climb up to the top of the tower. Open daily through January 11, nighttime tours times start at 7, 7:30 and 8 PM. Daytime general admission tickets range from $23 to $25 per person. u

Royal Treatment

Shades of plum and pine combine the lush elegance of deep purples and evergreen hues to create a holiday style that’s both warm and refined. This palette captures the richness of the season, blending the regal tone of plum with the grounding feel of classic pine green. Imagine a tree adorned with plum and green ornaments, accented by velvet ribbons and floral picks for added depth. Pictured here are just a few ideas to add rich colors to your home this season.

The soft luxurious feel of the Karru cotton-velvet stockings contrast against the natural texture of the jute rim. The combination is a match made in heaven. Simply hang by a fireplace fill with presents and your work is done. Each stocking, $42, has a practical hanging loop.

Make a bold statement in any room and even a hallway with this regal plum satin paint by Annie Sloan.

Armchair. The structure of this upholstered chair was designed to bring firmness and comfort to any body. As a stylish occasional chair, this mid-century modern furniture piece will spice up any room.

Peeping out their comfy bed of leaves these hedgehogs are very happy. The lamp shade its monochrome and splash of green will suit most decors from the ultra modern to the vintage collector. Using a mix of victorian illustrations, the quirky Mountain & Molehill shade, $84, is hand-finished to ensure that no

 These beautiful, rustic candles by Heavenly Homes and Garden, $7, are a lovely deep purple, adding a punch of elegance and glowing light.

hot seats

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 must-try 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 show -

cases famous plays such as A Christmas Story , the musical, November 21-December 24, and Southern Fried Funeral, January 9-February9. 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 Hwy., Southside (731-4300; alspizza. com), L, D, $.

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.

Casa Reina

Aqua Grill

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 (285-3017; aquagrill.net). L, D, $$$.

Argyle

Located inside TPC Sawgrass and adjacent to The Yards pickleball and golf club, the menu features jumbo scallops, 14oz. ribeye and PEI mussels. 254 Alta Mar Dr., Ponte Vedra Beach (3953114; argylepub.com). L, D, SB

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, $$.

The Bearded Pig

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

Biscottis

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). B, L, D, SB, $$.

Blue Bamboo

This restaurant 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 (6461478; 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 (723-1300; blueorchid.menu). L, D, $$.

Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q

Meat is the draw at Bono’s Pit BarB-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 complements 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, $$.

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, $$$.

City Grille & Raw Bar

Welcome arrival to the San Marco area dining scene featuring 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). L, D, $$

Coastal Wine & Tapas

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,

Contemporary

Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce, and Signature Coastal Angus Beef Sliders. 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, $$.

Cordova, A Coastal Chophouse & Bar

Culhane’s Irish Pubs & Restaurants

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, $$$$.

Ember & Iron

Situated in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, Cordova 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 crabcrusted red snapper, grilled beef tenderloin, and peppercorncrusted 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/costabrava-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, $.

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., #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, $$

Continued on page 118

Sweet Rewards

They Say Chocolate is cheapter than therapy. Who are we to disagree?

BY JEFFREY SPEAR

With the holidays upon us, we’re thinking about all things sweet and delicious and, in particular, chocolate. Forget about that everyday supermarket stuff. We’re dreaming about decadently rich and undeniably indulgent bits of chocolate that trigger shivers of delight, make you go weak at the knees and put a lasting smile on your face. Whether you’re looking for the ultimate dessert, something truly impressive for home entertaining or that perfect holiday gift (after all, the most heartfelt gifts are the ones you can eat), we’ve found local places that have them all.

For the best cakes in town, there are several destinations of note. At The French Pantry (Southside), a renown local bakery as well as casual eatery, the most popular cake is the Yum Yum, an incredibly rich four-layer creation with chocolate pastry cream, whipped cream and buttercream, finished with choco-

late ganache and almond praline. If this isn’t enough, the German Chocolate cake is an incredibly seductive alternative.

Regular patrons at bb’s (Southbank), one of Jacksonville’s most enduring restaurants, understand that no meal is complete without digging into one of their fabulous cakes. Just in time for the holidays, they’ve introduced the Midnight Velvet Mousse Torte. This one’s a showstopper, for sure. Dark chocolate mousse sandwiched between layers of flourless chocolate cake, topped with a chocolate ganache, then garnished with whipped cream and edible gold dust. Chocolate doesn’t get much better than this.

Speaking of flourless chocolate, Town Hall (San Marco) is serving a Peanut Butter Swirl Brownie, a flourless chocolate brownie accessorized with roasted peanuts, caramel corn, caramel gelato and chocolate sauce.

Made exclusively for the restaurant by Jacksonville’s acclaimed pastry chef Rebecca Reed, this is a treat not to be missed.

Without a doubt, a customized cake with all the right flavors, colors, textures and toppings lends the perfect touch to holiday celebrations. If this suits your fancy, Intan’s Kitchen & Bakery will make whatever sweet indulgence you’d like. Of course, the Chocolate Torte, a chocolate cake with layers of salted rum caramel covered with chocolate ganache, is exquisite. So is their Chocolate Flourless Cake as well as the Chocolate and Cheesecake layer cakes. No matter which you choose, your mouth will thank you.

You might also find Makenu Chocolate (Atlantic Beach), described as a “bean to bar” chocolate shop, of interest. A one-of-a-kind confectionery and cafe, Makenu transforms ethically sourced cocoa beans into rich and

French Pantry

Makenu Chocolate

bb's

PHOTO BY LAURA EVANS

dreamy chocolate confections. While single origin chocolate bars are the house specialty, the Chocolate Chunk Maldon Salt Cookies and Chocolate Chip Banana Bread are ridiculously tasty. Try one or try them all. You’ll be glad you did.

For those who have difficulty choosing between pastries and bon bons, Creme de la Cocoa (St Augustine), just north of St. Augustine’s tourist district, offers an impressive assortment of dazzling chocolate creations. Their hand decorated truffles are exceptionally popular, available in a broad spectrum of colors and flavors including Orange Dreamsicle, Ginger Lime and several cocktail inspired varieties that contain alcohol. If you prefer something baked, indulge yourself in their Salted Caramel Crunch cake. With its layers of chocolate cake and dark chocolate mousse topped with salted caramel and crunchy pearls, it’s likely you’ll want seconds... or even thirds.

If you’re simply craving candies and chocolate, lots of chocolate, then Sweet Pete’s (Downtown) is the ultimate destination. Known for its line of traditional and contemporary chocolates, there’s something that satisfies every craving. Just in time for the holidays, the handmade truffles make for great gifts. Or, keep them for yourself. With lots of flavors to choose from, a few worth mentioning include Ruby Pistachio Truffle, White Chocolate Peppermint Truffle, Milk Chocolate Pecan and Dark Chocolate Coconut.

Assuming you’re tempted by, or at least a bit curious about, these truly amazing chocolate experiences, making time to sample them all is highly recommended. Considering that most of these places have comfortable on-premises dining, bring a friend or two, get an assortment for sharing, dig in and rejoice. When the moans and groans of delight have faded, have them pack some extras for the ride home. What a great way to kick off the holidays. Ho, ho, ho! u

DARE TO DREAM

Half of all restaurant openings fail within a couple of years. It’s a tough business and one that veteran restaurateur and entrepreneur John Felico, founder of Auggie’s Draft Room in St. Augustine, knows well. Some of the lessons he’s learned during 40 years in the industry are shared in his new book, Drafting the Dream ($10 on Kindle). Among the bedrock principles he says every proprietor must follow are to get one’s hands dirty. “As an owner, it is imperative that you can do everything in your restaurant as well as, if not better than, all your staff. There is no better way to retain employees than if they know you can do their job.” He also recommends focusing on the busiest hours. “Instead of trying to increase traffic during the slow times, focus on creating more demand during the busiest times. If your restaurant become so packed on peak days that customers can’t get in, they will make a special trip during slower times, thus increasing receipts in both busy and slow periods.” So, who wants to open a restaurant? You might want to talk to John first. Or at least read his book. u

Hot tea will be flowing at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island throughout the holidays. The enchanting season gets rolling with a special Nutcracker Tea ($63-$102) on Saturday, November 30 (noon and 2 PM), as kids are invited to dress in character for a themed afternoon experience complete with a selection of tea sandwiches, pastries, and holiday cookies and, followed by a special 20-minute performance by the Florida Ballet, showcasing Clara, the Nutcracker Prince and the Sugar Plum Fairy. The warm beverages and small bites continue with a series of Santa Storybook Teas ($72) starring Santa and Mrs. Clause. Guests are treated to finger sandwiches, candy canes and photos with St. Nick in the oceanside resort’s lobby lounge December 7, 14 and 21, noon-1:30 PM. Advance reservations suggested. u

Breaking Ground

New projects are popping out of the soil in Jax’s Brooklyn neighborhood like dollar weed on a lawn. The lastest, a mixed-use commercial center from Restaurant & Hospitality Group (RHIG), called The Hub, recently broke ground along Riverside Avenue. Designed with indoor and shaded outdoor gathering spaces, the goal is create a respite from the surrounding urban towers and asphalt. The Hub will be anchored by three dining and drinking options, including a new homegrown Southern Grounds coffee house. In addition, the Sky Bar will serve upscale cocktails and small plates with Downtown skyline views, and Alder & Oak will feature a menu of rustic, Aegean-inspired wood-fired dishes. “Our vision for The Hub has always been to create an inviting space where people from all walks of life can connect and experience the best of Jacksonville’s Brooklyn neighborhood, and we look forward to making this a reality,” says RHIG owner Mark Janasik.  u

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille

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; hookedonharrys.com). L, D, $$.

JJ’s Liberty Bistro

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 chefowned 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, macarons 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, $.

Matthew’s Restaurant

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

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, $$$.

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

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 wood-fired pizzas.

110 1st St., Neptune Beach (249-5573; mezza lunajax.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

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 (381-6670); 5 Cordova St., St. Augustine (342-5264). L, D, $$.

Mossfire Grill

A fixture near 5 Points for two decades, Mossfire serves Southwestern cuisine with a sophisticated flair. Menu classics include the chicken empanadas, ancho honey glazed salmon, and crab cakes topped with chipotle lime mayo. Try the gouda cheese quesadilla and the Mexican street corn. 1537 Margaret St., Riverside (355-4434; mossfire.com). L, D, $$.

Continued on page 122

Foodie Fete

There are cookouts, and then there is the Amelia Island Cookout—a four-day celebration of deliciousness that featured a collection of special events peppered across the island. This year’s fete, held October 17-20 and hosted by the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, kicked off with a pair of meals at two of Amelia’s best-loved restaurants, Burlingame and David’s. In addition, there was a Mystery Lunch, a Latin-inspired al fresco dinner, a five-course Master Chefs Dinner inside the resort’s signature restaurant, Salt, and the weekend’s top draw, an oceanside cookout on the lawn of the Ritz-Carlton, where the assembled all-star chefs prepared grilled seafood, sizzling steaks and more.   u

Secret Suppers: First Course

As part of the Jacksonville Symphony’s 75th Anniversary celebrations, Jacksonville Magazine is partnering with the orchestra for a series of “Symphony Secret Suppers” taking place at some of the city’s leading restaurants. The first of four Secret Suppers was held the evening of Sunday, October 20 at Oceana, a raw bar and seafood-focused restaurant from the team who brought you Taverna, located in the heart of San Marco Square. Chef Sam Efron prepared an exclusive, one-night-only menu, the theme of which was inspired by the Symphony’s two performances of Rodrigo & Ravel’s Bolero.

Upon arrival, the 70 guests attending the sold-out event were treated to tapas and cava, followed by oysters and pintxos (small bites of Manchego, piquillo, olive, Boqueron) and steak tartare crostini. Additional courses followed, including grilled squid stuffed with chorizo, chickpea, arugula and fennel salad, as well as rack of lamb with sauteed white bean, kale, artichoke, and blistered baby heirloom tomatoes.

Three additional Symphony Secret Suppers will be held in 2025. Look for details about these events in upcoming editions of Jacksonville Magazine and via social media. u

Nineteen

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 (694-2770, 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

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 halfpound bacon and cheddar burger topped off with a fried egg. 363 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (2417637; poestavern.com). L,D, $.

Ragtime Tavern

Open for more than 30 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

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., Jacksonville Beach (241-7188, phillys-finest.com). L, D, $$.

Poe’s Tavern

Located at the end of Atlantic Blvd. in the heart of the Beaches lies a gourmet burger joint where you can experience an ample

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, $$.

Continued on page 129

Top Chefs

Florida foodies will be flocking to the state’s southeastern shore in early 2025 as the sixth annual  Visit Lauderdale Food and Wine Festival  takes place January 13-19. The week-long culinary celebration feature s a packed lineup of tastings, cooking demonstrations, exclusive dinners and more, all intended to showcase the region’s renowned and emerging chefs, restaurants and local food scene. Among the celebrity personalities and top chefs participating are Fabio Viviani, Nancy Fuller, Alex Belew and social

media maven Alexa Santos. The week gets rolling on Wednesday night with the “Bar Fight! A Spirited Competition” ($60) where mixologists battle it out to produce the evening’s favorite cocktail. Next up are the Asian-inspired “Wok ’n Roll” ($80) on Thursday and “BBQ at the Beach” ($85) on Friday. The festival’s main event, the Grand Tasting ($95), sees guests feasting at more than 100 food and beverage stations, as well as enjoying live music and celebrity chef cooking demonstrations. So, who’s hungry for a road trip? u

Candy Lane

Every autumn as the holiday season sets in, the candy making at Lofty Pursuits in Tallahassee gets turned up a notch. The one-time toy store that debuted in 1993 has evolved into a full-service restaurant, candy store, gift shop and more. The classic soda fountain pumps out old-timey favorites like malts, egg creams and floats. The ice cream counter can scoop some 250 different flavors from a menu that rotates daily and includes everything from butter pecan

and banana cream pie to butterscotch swirl and chocolate chip cookie dough. Vegan flavors, too. But it’s the century-old candy-making equipment that draws most of the attention come December. Handmade candy canes are produced in 25-pound batches, each pulled, rolled, twisted, flavored and cut while the sugar is still warm. Owner Gregory Cohen and crew make thousands of peppermint-flavored candy canes, but many customers come for the more usual flavors such as blackberry, root beer and chocolate orange. As a nod to Florida State students and alum, eggnog-flavored candy canes are rolled with festive garnet and gold. u

Cocktail Corner

The ready-to-drink cocktail consumer space is increasingly crowded these days. Taking a dip into these adult beverage waters is  oo-Lah Cocktails , produced and canned in Hollywood, Florida and founded by Marine Corps. veteran Trevor Spiers. Promoted as a “vacation in a can,” each of the four flavors—Spicy Margarita, Big-O, Island Girl, and Prickly Pear—is lightly carbonated and spiked with rum, vodka or tequila. The Island Girl, for example, is a laced with rum and coconut, pineapple and orange flavors. Offered at 5% ABV in single-serve cans, Oo-Lah Cocktails are sold as four-packs ($13) at select retailers in Florida and Virginia including Total Wine & More. u

Blueberry Lemon Scones

BY EDGAR MALDONADO, EXECUTIVE CHEF AT SAWGRASS MARRIOTT GOLF RESORT & SPA

PHOTO BY ANDY VARNES

Chef Maldonado, who oversees the Ponte Vedra Beach resort’s seven culinary operations, says he enjoys using his creativity to blend Latin American influences inspired by his time growing up in Venezuela with classical stateside offerings to produce his own unique flavor profiles, textures and visually appealing presentations. With more than 28 years in kitchens around the country, he returned to Sawgrass Marriott in 2022. As the holidays approach, the resort embraces the spirit of all things cozy and bright by hosting a series of Teddy Bear Teas in late November and throughout December. Among the delish bites guests, both big and small, will enjoy are PB&J sandwiches with banana bread, mashed avocado finger sandwiches on brioche and blueberry lemon scones, the recipe for which chef Maldonado share with us here.

INGREDIENTS

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1 teaspoon fresh thyme

1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

Additional heavy cream and coarse sugar for topping

PREPARATION

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3. Cut in the butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, thyme, and lemon zest.

5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to over mix.

6. Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to crush them.

7. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut the circle into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

8. Brush the tops of the scones with a little heavy cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar.

9. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. u

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, peeland-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 (246-0881, slidersoysterbar.com). L, D, $$.

Surfwiches

Open since 2013, the Jax Beach sandwich shop specializes in hoagies, burgers, hot dogs and grilled cheeses. Top sellers include ribeye cheesesteaks, roast beef, the classic reuben and the "outrageous" BLT. 1537 Penman Rd., Jacksonville Beach (241-6996; surfwiches.com). L, D, $$.

TacoLu

In a style described as Baja Mexicana, this "uber" popular restaurant serves nachos, que-

sadillas, 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 top-notch 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

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, $$.

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 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 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 allyou-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

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Only in Florida

Strange But True Stories from Across the Sunshine State

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently issued a warning about the appearance of the Oropouche virus in the country. Known to cause “sloth fever,” the virus is spread by mosquitos in South America. Of course, the first cases reported in the States just had to be in Florida. According to the CDC, 11 Floridians returned from a summer trip with the disease. The condition can cause fever, rash, joint aches and, in rare cases, brain swelling and death. Among the more than 8,000 cases reported in Central and South America this year, two women in Brazil died from it earlier this year. The CDC says there are no medicines to treat the virus or vaccines to prevent it.

Despite repeated warnings he was putting his life in danger, onelegged Joseph Malinowski decided to ride out Hurricane Milton inside his small sailboat floating in Tampa Bay. Malinowski, 54, known locally as Lieutenant Dan, even posted on social media during the Category 3 storm. “I’m not taking on any water. I haven’t even spilled my coffee yet,” he told his 242,900 followers on TikTok. “I’m good. I’ve got everything I need. I’ve got plenty of water. I’ve got plenty of food. I could be in here for two weeks.” Fortunately, Malinowski survived the wild night, having to cut his anchor line because the sailboat was repeatedly banging against a harbor wall.

Four years ago, Sarah Boone, 46, was arrested following the bizarre death of her boyfriend, Jorge Torres, 42, inside the apartment the two shared in Winter Park. Recently, before taking the stand in a pre-trial hearing, Boone, who is represented by her ninth attorney, had the audacity to request professional hair and makeup services be available

while she stood trial for murder. She is accused of fatally suffocating Torres in a suitcase. Boone has plead not guilty, insisting her boyfriend died during a booze-fueled game of hide and seek. Investigators doubt her story and have included into evidence video footage from her phone showing him thrashing around inside the suitcase and saying, “I can’t f*#@¢ing breathe.” Boone’s requests were denied.

“If FSU loses to Duke on Saturday, I will break the curse and eat dog s@#*! I’m 100% serious about this. I will post the video and all,” So proclaimed a person called DJ Ventora on Twitter in October. The Seminoles entered the year ranked in the top 10 in national polls but, as the season played out, the team lost six of its first seven games. The Noles had never lost to Duke in football, winning 22 games in row. That is until this year, when the Blue Devils beat FSU 23 to 16 in October in Durham, North Carolina. Following the loss, DJ Ventora fulfilled his pledge including recording and posting the meal.

Speaking of sports and poor decisions: Former Jacksonville Jaguars financial manager Amit Patel pleaded guilty wire fraud and illegal monetary transactions in March 2024. Reportedly, Patel stole $22 million from the NFL franchise over the course of more than three years using the team’s virtual credit card system. The legal battles are far from over, however, as Patel recently filed a $250 million suit against  online sports gambling site FanDuel. Patel claims the site exploited his gambling addiction and ignored responsible gaming and anti-money laundering protocols. He is currently serving a six-year sentence in federal prison in South Carolina.u

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