Salty Issue

salty Issue Waves and Wellness A WELCOMING NEW RETREAT

Serving all Coastal Communities Ponte Vedra Life | 1

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™

COASTAL PUBLISHERS Melissa Intemann Amy Vizanko EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tracy Margol CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Kayla Sim Wendi Boyett CREATIVE DIRECTOR Inger Williamson GRAPHIC DESIGNER Amy Olivieri CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tracy Margol Cara Burky Keith Rydh, CEO of FoodiesUSA Charlene Shirk Inger Williamson Randall Taylor Rich Craven Kayla Sim CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHY Deanne Dunlop Photography Tiger Gomez Amy Olivieri Randall Taylor EDITORIAL/FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY Shepherd Boggs Can’t find us? Subscriptions are available for $24/year or $40/two years.

Please call 904.222.8938 for more information. @PVLcoastal

@PVLcoastal

www.facebook.com/pvlcoastal Copyright 2014 Ponte Vedra Life Coastal, a product of KTTS Media Group LLC, is published bimonthly.

The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or in full without written consent from the publisher. Neither the publisher nor the advertisers will be held responsible for any errors found in the magazine. Ponte Vedra Life Coastal makes no representation or warrant of any kind for the accuracy of content. All advertisements are assumed by the publisher to be correct.

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Publishers’ Letter Join the PVL Family in a collective, “Ahhhhhhhh.”

Welcome to the 2014 “Salty Issue” of PVL Coastal Magazine. Here we are on the brink of summer. Hot (not warm) days ahead, bathing suits, light clothes and long nights (insert the “Ahhhhhh” here.) In this issue, we bring you some sassy yet informative summer articles that not only embrace our community, but provide an education on our vast ocean and beautiful marine life as well as summer eats and sips for backyard gatherings. So let’s step outside, smile up at the sky and kick off our flip flops!

If you were like us, you attended a school without air conditioning, and the teachers opened the double-hung windows to let in some fresh air. The sounds of birds and lawn mowers and people outside followed the breeze into your classroom. Gym classes went outside to run relays. The bike racks were full. Ten days, then six, then three and then – finally – school was out until Labor Day! The summer loomed ahead of us, and the next school year was impossibly far away.

Of course, we didn’t all have the same childhood experiences, but we all enjoy some special memory of a past season. Do you remember the feeling you had at the start of summer, and the realization that you had a long time of fun ahead of you? No more homework, studying or early morning sports practices. What thoughts come to mind as you recall looking forward to just hanging out, or how it felt to ride your bike or play until the street lights came

on (and then call home to ask for an extra half-hour of fun)? Are you smiling yet? We still get that giddy feeling (just talking about it!) every year around Memorial Day. The whole summer is ahead of us. We are inspired to be outside at every possible opportunity, or at least open our office windows to connect with the season and the salt air.

This summer, we encourage you to create happy memories and revel in the fleeting summer season. Try to recapture your childhood wonder and excitement.

Find any reason to step away from your daily routine for a quick blast of summer.

If you can, visit the many beaches up and down our beautiful coast, or picnic at a park or preserve. Dance in the warm rain. Sit on the steps in mid-June and whistle your reply to a cardinal’s evening song. Pick a dandelion, marvel at its complexity, and then close your eyes and blow the seeds into the breeze.

Wiggle your toes in the sand. Run through a neighbor’s sprinkler. Stay out really late on the longest day of the year.

Renew your spirit and refresh your soul.

And if you have children… DO all the above mentioned WITH them… talk about everlasting memories!

Sweet Summer Nights!

Mel & Amy

Melissa Intemann & Amy Vizanko

Contents

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HEALTHY DOSE

TEXTILE DOSSIER

14 Rx: Beauty is truly skin deep.

Shield from the damaging effects of the sun 18 HEALTH: Beachside Rejuvenation.

Liberate your soul and relax your mind. Esser Health Retreat 22 NATURE: Know the SeaCret of nature’s underlining resource 24 SCIENCE: The ocean’s boundless benefits. Learn how the sea can be your savior

78 M-PIRE: Beauty and the Beach.

Beach-bag essentials for everyday this summer 84 CARA-BOUT-IT: Salty Kidz.

For the love of the ocean and t-shirts

HOUSE OF HEARTS

28 GIVE: Surprising truths about the existence and importance of sharks and one organization making a difference 34 LIFE: A young man’s journey as a lifeguard and philanthropist

PLAY

38 TRAVEL: Follow the extraordinary voyage of the loggerhead sea turtle 42 SPORT: A Vessel of a Different Kind.

Surf skiing, beyond kayaking

LANDSCAPE: 52 LAND: Discover Jacksonville’s new front porch. Jacksonville Beaches 58 SEA: Protecting our Shores.

Semper Paratus: Always ready

SAVOR, SEE AND SOUND 90 CATCH: Florida’s Fresh Fish.

Seafood behind the scenes 96 EATS: Grill it. Beyond burgers and hotdogs 94 SIP: Summer Sips. Libations for every day of the week

CAMERWORK 62 Bethesda Waters. Shepherd Boggs behind the lens in the deep blue springs

COASTAL A-LIST 27 Art of the Athlete 33 Plaid Party 48 Lot Parties 82 Jaffi’s Fashion Show 86 Miami Fashion Week 100 PVL Golf Issue Release Party

Cover and Contents:

Photography: Shepherd Boggs Location: The Bahamas

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: y t u a e B RX

It is Truly

SKIN DEEP

By Erez Sternberg, MD and Andrea Bailey, Aesthetician Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery

Skin

is our largest organ. This amazing organic coating protects us from environmental exposure, helps maintain our body’s core temperature, prevents harmful bacteria from invading our bodies, and even makes us waterproof. Yet this wonderful creation is too often neglected, forced to perform its daily miracles without as much as a second thought, or a casual “thank you.” Well, as far as we’re concerned, this neglect has gone on far too long. Let’s stand together, unite in action and say aloud, “we are here to give skin a voice!”

A large part of our business is dealing with skincare. This is not only a female issue, as the number one cause of premature aging is environmental exposure and this affects everyone, male and female alike. In order to make this memorable, let’s use a common Jacksonville initialism – TPC. Treat, Protect, Clean… easy to remember right? With just minimal effort, you can improve your skin and keep it healthy.

TREAT: all adults should be on some form of retinol. This is a prescription topical cream that improves skin cell turnover and increases the amount of healthy collagen in the dermis. Collagen is of vital importance to the appearance and thickness of the skin. Retinol also helps with mild acne, reduction of early wrinkles, and reversal of sun damage.

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PROTECT: the second cornerstone of healthy skin and potentially the most important, is to keep your skin protected. This includes a good sunscreen and moisturizer. Sunscreen must be SPF 30 or higher and should be applied in the morning before makeup but after the moisturizer.

Sunscreen should be reapplied throughout the day if you have sun exposure for more than one hour.

In order to maintain its healthy appearance and barrier mechanism, skin must stay well hydrated; all skin types require topically applied hydration. Even the oiliest skin can be dehydrated, so choosing the best topical lotion for your skin type is paramount. Dry skin looks damaged and gets old quick. A good moisturizer should be applied twice daily to avoid drying. Several brands of moisturizers contain SPF and are the preferred topical solution.

CLEAN: showering doesn’t cut it. Skin needs to be cleansed with a gentle but deep cleaning cleanser to remove oil and unclog pores. It is important to use a cleanser designed for the face.

Don’t use body wash or soap for your

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face. Those are too drying and alter the pH of the facial skin. To improve results further, we recommend exfoliating daily with a gentle mineral scrub, or Clarsonic brush. This removes the top layer of unhealthy skin cells and prepares the skin for the application of retinol and moisturizer.

There is so much more that goes into professional quality skin care, but this should be your guide and standard operating procedure for daily skin care. Like anything in life, if you want to keep looking good, some necessary maintenance is required. When you’re ready to step it up further and bring out the big guns of beauty, call and set up an appointment with a licensed professional aesthetician to learn more about serums, growth factors, peptides, amino acids, peels, and medical grade products. •

Dr. Sternberg is a board certified plastic surgeon and Andrea Bailey is a licensed aesthetician, both with Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery. They have five office locations throughout Jacksonville.

Health

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Beachside

Rejuvenation: Esser Health Retreats

By PVL Team

Y

ou want to be healthy, but knowing what to eat, how to exercise and of course having the tools to keep it going can be tough.

Now imagine staying in a beautiful beachfront villa, a private chef making the finest whole food recipes for every meal, personalized fitness three hours a day and extensive education. Now imagine excess weight melting away, your blood pressure and blood sugars improving and feeling that old sense of energy and enthusiasm for life. Okay now stop imagining because such a place actually exists right here in Ponte Vedra Beach. It is run by a cadre of local doctors, chefs and trainers who all believe the simple concept that “health comes from healthy living.� They use the latest science to help motivated participants achieve their best health through sustainable and powerful personal choices. >>>

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Decades ago, researchers at places like Stanford and Duke University catalogued the powerful effects that intense nutrition and exercise modifications can have on common diseases. Pioneers in the field of “lifestyle medicine” like Walter Kempner, Dean Ornish and Nathan Pritikin proved that diseases like obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure were for most of us “diseases of choice.” Their research centered around the concept that eating “plant-based” foods and exercising regularly could not only maintain good health but also prevent and reverse common diseases. For example, participants in the Duke Rice diet program would lose 25+ pounds in four weeks, and 80 percent would get off blood pressure medications. Pritikin showed that people who followed his programs for even 14-21 days could lose weight rapidly and reduce blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol dramatically. These early studies are the backbone on which Esser Health Retreats are based and the retreat results are on par with the research.

Participants lose 2-6 pounds over 4-6 days, blood sugar and pressures demonstrably improve and many

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patients are able to begin reducing medication dosing soon after starting the health programming. The retreats are also great for those looking to prevent disease or just have a relaxing health-centered vacation.

The approach to health on these retreats is simple. Health promoting, energizing food, a wide variety of exercise and unparalleled education are the foundation. The food is prepared by chefs from Fresh Jax (freshjax.com) a local award-winning healthy food company and it is loaded with “plant-strong” flavors but has no gluten, meat, dairy or artificial anything added to it. The food has been described as “awesome,” “attractive,” and every other kind of superior rating. Exercise is provided by fitness instructors who create unique, personalized programs for each individual. Whether a participant is 200 pounds overweight, has a limiting medical condition or is an elite athlete, programming is designed to meet their needs. Three hours of optional exercise is offered per day and runs the gamut from seated stretching routines to yoga on the beach or cardio and strength circuit training. Everyone is included at his/her own level and

“This was a life changing experience and

I feel like a different person.� personalized routines are provided to take home for daily use after the retreats end. The keystone of the program is the educational component.

Presentations by MDs, PhDs, psychologists and motivational speakers occur throughout the stay on topics related not only to basic understanding of health and disease but also lifestyle change, emotional intelligence and the like. Participants have cooking demos daily and are engaged in small group sessions to help equip them to be successful when they return home.

Esser Health Retreats have several goals including education, empowerment, motivation and of course a generous serving of beachside fun.

Next time you are planning a vacation, whether you are looking for a healthy vacation on the beach, want to kick-start your health goals or begin a course of disease reversal, a Ponte Vedra Beach health immersion may be just what the doctor ordered. •

NatURe Advertorial

Know the

By Inger Williamson

For centuries the Dead Sea has been a destination for those wishing to renew and extend life. Kings and queens escaped there over 5,000 years ago and even Cleopatra was known to visit on occasion to enrich her beauty.

The Dead Sea contains 26 essential minerals, twelve of which do not exist in any other sea or ocean in the world. Some are known to have unique qualities such as providing a feeling of relaxation, nourishing the skin, activating the blood systems and healing rheumatic diseases and metabolic disorders. In addition, the natural minerals are essential for correct functioning of the human body and layers of skin.

No longer a well-guarded “seacret,” a Dead Sea skin care routine can be achieved locally at Nail Touch in Jacksonville Beach. We caught up with Loc Lee aka “Leon,” salon owner and SEACRET™ agent to get the latest on this age-old regimen gone high-tech.

How do you incorporate Dead Sea minerals into your treatments?

With the perfect blend of nature and science. SEACRET™ products utilize the latest technologies in the skin care world – incorporating peptide technology, biomagnetism, and nano technology with essential oils, vitamins, fatty acids, plant extracts and the dead sea minerals to keep your skin looking healthy, glossy and youthful. Every SEACRET product contains exclusive Dead Sea minerals and advanced, patented technologies that are clinically proven to deliver immediate results to your skin.

How does the Dead Sea salt activate on the skin?

When applied, the pores in the skin absorb the minerals and start to create a glowing and refreshing new look.

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How do minerals play an important role in correct skin functioning?

By exfoliating then hydrating the skin, the minerals help prevent cracking; they unclog pores and remove dirt, toxins and impurities. They nourish your skin to help early premature aging. The Dead Sea’s properties of essential vitamins, amino acids and minerals all play an important role in rejuvenating the skin.

What are other healing benefits of your Dead Sea facials?

SEACRET brings you the most advanced formulation and integration of one of nature’s true gifts, the Dead Sea. SEACRET utilizes the 26 minerals found in the dead sea, not only to regain youth and reverse aging but to also to help skin with acne, psoriasis, rosacea, eczema, respiratory problems, and rheumatic issues. It’s truly the natural healing power of the Dead Sea.

SEAcret…

Tell us more about these SEACRET™ products.

I am the salon owner and also a SEACRET™ agent, affiliated with SEACRET Minerals of the Dead Sea, a complete line of skin solutions which can be purchased through me at a substantial discount.

There are other “Dead Sea” products on the market that try to imitate SEACRET’s so you have to be very careful. Some are expired, not fresh or up-to-date. Some contain preservatives or other unwanted additives so it’s always good to buy directly from an agent. I encourage anyone to come into the salon and try the products and order through me. Our products are always original, fresh and current.

You can also contact me to become a SEACRET agent.

Rejuvenate your face, body and soul!

Stop by or call today for an appointment for a Dead Sea facial or to purchase SEACRET products.

Nail Touch • Dead Sea Mineral Facial 1508 Third St. N. • Jacksonville Beach 904.525.7026

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SCIeNCe

THE OCEAN’S

bene

Most of us love going to the beach, but did you know a day near the sea and sand provides countless health benefits too? A dip in the ocean is as good for you as a day at the spa. Here are just a few advantages.

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fits

by Tracy Margol

Relaxation

Research has shown that the calming sound of waves alters patterns in the brain, lulling you into a deeply relaxed state which can help rejuvenate the mind and body. You may have noticed that you sleep better after a day at the beach. Ocean air is charged with healthy negative ions that accelerate our ability to absorb oxygen. Negative ions also balance levels of serotonin, a body chemical linked with mood and stress. Bathing in the ocean works on chronic disorders too, helping to overcome ailments, aches and pains and calming down overwrought nerves while tranquilizing the entire body.

Circulation and Respiration

Floating in the water means fresh blood is diverted from the lower limbs; it’s being pumped around the body bringing more oxygen to the brain making us more Ponte Vedra Life

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alert and active. The gas molecules in the ocean mist create a spray rich in iodine, which assist in regulating the thyroid gland. Negatives ions in the spray also strengthen the body’s immunological defense mechanisms. This mist of extremely small molecules enters the body through the respiratory system, where they attach to the walls of the lungs for distribution throughout the body.

Skin

Ocean water is a miracle treatment for acne and semi-permanent scars. Salt is an excellent curing, clearing and cleansing agent. The sodium chloride helps to cleanse the skin and is often affective for mild acne. Salt water also helps heal cuts and sores, and can rid the skin of foreign toxins.

Health and Fitness

A dip in the ocean opens the pores and helps eliminate toxins from the body.

Swimming and wading brings our bodies in contact with the sea’s pulsating and massaging waves, its rare minerals, and dissolved gases. Swimming and even treading water promotes you to stay fit as you use muscles in the shoulders, arms and legs which aren’t used in the same way as say a workout at the gym. If you weigh around 130 pounds, treading water at a fast pace can burn nearly 600 calories in an hour – more if you weigh over 130.

With essential elements like vitamins, mineral salts, trace elements and amino acids, the ocean is a boundless reservoir of health. So why not take a day off from life’s hustle and bustle and reap the amazing health benefits of bathing in the ocean? •

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COaStal a-lISt

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Art of the Athlete

photographers registered for the competition, 25 ďŹ nal photos were selected by local professional photographers, area community and business leaders. 13 will make it into the 2015 calendar with the cover chosen through social media.

The event was held on Friday, May 2nd at the CoRk Arts District with approx 70 guests in attendance including Special Olympics North Florida Duval athletes. The title sponsor was Southern Oak Insurance, food was provided by Publix and North Beach Bistro and Edible Arrangements.

Desktop Digital Lab donated the printing for the photos and Team Black provided the beverages and service.

Reception photos by: Tanya Austin

GIVe

SHARKS Surprising truths about the existence and importance of sharks

H

umans kill an estimated 73 million sharks annually, which equates to about 11,000 every hour. People are often surprised, however, to learn that many shark populations are facing extinction. Some species, like the Great White Shark, are so threatened; they could largely disappear during our lifetime. Sharks are vastly hunted for fins, teeth, jaws, and often as a trophy for sport fishing.

I know what you’re thinking: “Sharks are vicious creatures, so who cares?”

But don’t be blinded by your fears.

Sharks matter… a LOT. Take this example of a scallop

fishery in North Carolina. A 2003 study published by Myers and Baum revealed rapid declines in the great sharks of the northwest Atlantic since the mid-1980s. A more recent examination of research surveys, from 1970-2005, along the eastern U.S. coast, found that several species of sharks may have declined by more than 99 percent. So what does that have to do with scallops? Sharks eat cownose rays – and rays, which can grow to more than four feet across, eat large quantities of scallops.

With the absence of sharks, the ray population exploded and they consumed nearly all adult bay scallops in the area, completely devastating the scallop population, terminating North Carolina’s century-old bay scallop fishery.

The U.S. is not the only guilty party. More than 100 countries are involved in the business of trading in shark fins, with most exporting to the main consumer nations: mainland China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand.

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MATTER

by Tracy Margol

The U.S. and Europe also export significant quantities to local Chinese communities. In China, there are dozens of shark malls, each one full of at least 100 million fins (more on finning below).

We need sharks

As the apex predators of the oceans, sharks play a vital role in maintaining the health of ocean ecosystems. “We need sharks because they keep the oceans at a healthy balance and they help maintain the food web that we as humans depend on,” says Jamie Pollack, director of operations at Shark Angels – a nonprofit organization which uses education, media and local grassroots campaigns to raise awareness of critical issues and change perspectives of the shark.

Sharks have existed 100 times longer than man and have been honed to perfection, having existed on this planet for over 400 million years – and surviving five major extinctions. “Our future depends on healthy oceans which feed and sustain us,” explains Jamie. “And right now is the tipping point. The future of sharks is in our hands.”

Shark Angels to the rescue

It isn’t often you see the word “shark” paired with the word “angel,” but this New York City-based

SHARK STATS An estimated 73 million sharks are killed each year.

Sharks are perceived to be vicious killers, but humans are not on the sharks’ menu.

50 shark species are listed as being at high risk of extinction.

No national or international laws or treaties exist to prohibit the sale of shark fin.

More than 100 countries are involved in the business of trading in shark fins.

An estimated $9 billion in illegal fishing occurs yearly.

organization intends to change the world’s perspective about sharks by advocating to act locally to save sharks and the critical ecosystems they support. They are dedicated to providing research, scientific findings and statistics regarding issues facing the continued existence of sharks.

Over the last five years, they’ve been to over 20 countries in the heart of the shark fin trade, documenting, educating and fighting for sharks. And they are passionate about making one thing clear: sharks are not the monsters they are portrayed to be.

Shark finning is a major culprit

Contributing to the rapid decline in shark populations is the shark finning industry. According to Shark Angels’ website, sharkangels.org, shark finning is the practice of catching a live shark, slicing off its fins with a hot knife blade and then dumping the still-living shark back in the ocean, where it drowns or bleeds to death.

Shark fin is so valuable and soughtafter because it’s the key ingredient in socially prized shark fin soup and deeply rooted in the Asian culture. It is known as Fish Wing Soup in China and is highly desired because of its cultural association with health, prosperity and good fortune. Shark fin soup can sell for upwards of $100 per bowl, and while supply is plummeting, demand is at an all-time high.

Consumers, however, are largely unaware that shark fin soup comes from overfishing, illegal shark fishing or the practice of finning.

“Sharks give birth either to live young or to egg sacs,” explains Jamie, “and they don’t reproduce as fast as fish do, so they can’t withstand the fishing

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pressure.”

Finning occurs worldwide and is most common in high seas fisheries, hundreds of miles out at sea. Oceanic fishing fleets target valuable fish such as tuna, using thousands of baited hooks on miles of long-line, and freezing their catch onboard – catching sharks along with the tuna. At one time, this shark bycatch was considered a nuisance, and sharks were cut loose and allowed to swim away. However, because shark fins have become increasingly valuable, these same fisheries now deliberately target sharks.

“Finning is a horrific practice. When they slice the fin off and throw it back alive, the sharks can’t swim,” says Jamie. “But shark fins are valuable and shark meat is not,” she adds. “If you think of a ship’s cargo hold, how many more fins can you pack in there?”

The sale of shark fin products is legal in the U.S. and in many places throughout the world. And while the U.S. has sharkfinning regulations, only a small number of countries have banned the practice.

According to SharkAngels.org, many more countries need to be encouraged to enact legislation.

Often when laws are created, shark finning still continues, the website explains. These laws prohibit the act of shark finning – not shark fishing. At this point, banning shark finning alone does not solve the problem, as sharks are still being fished at unsustainable rates. Many regulations are weak – or are open to interpretation – and are being exploited.

What is needed is a ban on shark fishing, not just a ban on shark finning.

aged children about the importance of sharks and the issues threatening them. Jamie often uses Skype in the classroom to speak with kids all over the world and visits schools in the New York region and in other parts of the country. “Talking to people can be very challenging, because most people don’t care,” she says. “But when you talk to kids, you realize why you’re doing it.

Kids love sharks and they realize what you do makes a difference.” Jamie and “In the U.S. we have a Shark Protection thousands of Angels around the world Act. You can’t shark fin anymore,” Jamie are working independently, and as a explains. “In some parts like Florida, you network, to educate kids and adults to are still allowed to sell the fins separately give sharks a chance. from the body. We’ve been working on legislation to change that. New York will Shark Angels has launched “Team be fin-free in July of 2014,” she adds.

Jawsome,” a monthly donor program “The problem is, it’s an open ocean. which allows anyone to contribute to You have laws, but you have to enforce the organization for as little as $10 a them. It’s a big place and you can’t have month. Beach towels, tote bags and enforcement everywhere.” other products are available on the website now as a one-time sign-on Shark can be found in other products thank you gift exclusively to Team too, although the FDA carries warnings Jawsome members and shows the world of consumption (shark products may you support sharks! contain high levels of toxic methylmercury). Many people assume that Even a small donation makes a because they don’t eat difference. To Shark Angels, every shark fin soup, they’re single person has the power to not contributing to bring about change… not just for the demise of the sharks, but also for the oceans shark. But there are and the future. many other culprits.

Shark products can be found in vitamin supplements, alternative medicines, face creams, lipstick, sunscreens, lotions, deodorants, pet products and the list is growing.

Learning is key One of the many roles of Shark Angels is to educate school-

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10 WAYS YOU CAN SAVE SHARKS: #1 Become an Angel.

Earn your wings and become a Shark Angel, serving as a spokesperson and local campaign activist. #2 Do not consume or purchase shark – it’s dangerous.

It isn’t just the soup. Avoid eating shark steaks or meat, imitation crab, lobster or shrimp (it often contains shark), and avoid white fish, rock salmon or any of the other names for shark products.

This isn’t just for the sharks’ health – it’s for yours. Shark meat (including fins) carries warnings due to its high mercury levels from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Environmental Defense Fund and the World Health Organization. #3 Be an aware, informed consumer.

Know what you are buying. Often shark is relabeled as other types of fish, like rock salmon, included in fish patties like pollock, or hidden from consumers.

Shark ingredients are not always labeled, for example chondroitin can be made from shark cartilage. #4 Take your business elsewhere.

Avoid any restaurant or store that sells shark or ray products or shark fin soup and inform the business of your concerns. This includes shark cartilage, squalene (used in many beauty products), shark meat, shark leather, shark teeth/jaws and shark fins. Be sure to tell business owners exactly why you are boycotting their restaurants/ stores.

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#5 Speak out. And defend sharks.

Always report, to the proper authorities, anyone you witness abusing this incredibly valuable animal. Don’t know who to report to?

Report it to us. #6 Be smart when eating seafood.

Since over half of the 73,000,000 sharks caught yearly are caught as bycatch, and some of the commercial fisheries are headed for collapse in a few short decades, please eat sustainably.

If you eat fish, you should do it wisely – and sustainably. Get smart! Download a seafood card and carry it with you. #7 Spread the enlightenment.

Increase your shark IQ. Learn more then teach others. Host a local screening of Sharkwater, then a have discussion afterwards. #8 Keep sharks out of your cosmetics.

Never use any products (including makeup, lotions and deodorants) that contain squalene (shark liver oil). In fact, just buy cruelty-free. #9 Develop a voice.

Be heard. Blog, write articles, appeal to media outlets and help dispel the myths. Don’t support media outlets that demonize sharks. Sharks aren’t evil. #10 Go diving with sharks.

A live shark is worth more than a dead one. People pay a lot more money to see these sharks alive and swimming in the ocean.

COaStal a-lISt

Photography by Klara Cu

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lIFe

Ponte Vedra native gives back By: Kayla Sim Photography By: Randall Taylor

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He’s nineteen and has volunteered for

BEAM, Habitat for Humanity, The Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Foundation, Boy Scouts of America, and Best Buddies - just to name a few. His resume reads more than two pages long with the certifications and awards alone pushing over a page, for example St. Johns County Volunteer of the Year and Prudential Spirit Community Award, both received in 2013.

Since this is the Salty Issue, we don’t want to forget about his ample experience with the surf and sand. Max Ervanian is currently a Red Cross instructor for his Ocean Rescue agency and is an Officer of Prevention and Training at the City of Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue where the position was created solely for him. With phrases like “local hero” mentioned alongside Ervanian’s name we had to discover what he does, how he does it, and of course, if he was a superhero what power would he have? He chose multitasking and memorization. When asked what is the one thing he would want our community to know about him, Ervanian replies, “I am not superhuman; I am just an ordinary 19 year old like everyone else. So there should be no excuse why anyone else can’t do what I do, simply volunteer and give back.” Well, he might not think he’s superhuman, but PVL will have to reconsider that one. So, I sat down with Ervanian to ask a few more questions.

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Grace, 8 36 |

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tRaVel

The

EXTRA

VOYAGE of the

Loggerhead Sea Turtle

by Tracy Margol

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ORDINARY It’ s a journey that started two million years ago. Loggerhead sea turtles born on Florida’s east coast –thousands right here in Ponte Vedra – ride the Gulf Stream all the way up towards the Arctic and ultimately swim around the entire North Atlantic to Africa and back to the beach where they were born.

Buried beneath the sand upon hatching, the loggerhead emerges and faces a myriad of hazards before she ever enters the unknown abyss of the sea. Crabs, raccoons and even human predators can threaten her life, making the 40 or so yards away to the ocean seem like 100 miles.

Once in the majestic open ocean, the baby Loggerhead embarks on a vast, unforgiving quest that is the life of a turtle. Here she faces even more dangerous hazards, coming face-toface with the creatures of the deep and anxious fishermen – only to drift into dangerously cold waters. Storms, jagged rocks, oil left by ships, fishermen’s nets and hooks all pose a formidable threat.

Her first respite, a mat of Sargassum seaweed which she will eat and use as shelter.

A young Loggerhead will spend her first few years swimming along the Gulf Stream. “We don’t know a lot about when they’re little because they are too small to tag,” says Sandy Stam, permit holder No. 74 for the St. Johns County Sea Turtle Patrol. “We’ve tried,” she continues, “but never gotten a clear picture of what Ponte Vedra Life

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happens once they’re out there until maybe a few years of age, about dinner plate size.”

Stam began protecting turtles on Florida’s beaches when she moved here from Ohio 28 years ago. “I remember spending all of Mother’s Day one year digging up turtle nests and putting them in the hatchery… we didn’t have habitat conservation then, we moved the nests in coolers and brought them up there to hatch,” she explains of a time when you could drive on the beach in South Ponte

Today, Loggerheads, named for their exceptionally large heads, are considered an endangered species and are protected by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature.

Persistent population declines due to pollution, shrimp trawling and development in their nesting areas, among other factors listed here, have kept this wide-ranging seagoer on the threatened species list since 1978.

The Loggerhead’s greatest threat is loss of nesting habitat due to coastal development, predation of nests, and human disturbances (such as coastal lighting and housing developments) that cause disorientations during the emergence of hatchlings.

Adult Loggerheads typically weigh between 155 and 375 pounds and can reach 3.5 feet in length, though large specimens of more than 1,000 pounds have been found. Loggerheads typically nest in Florida from April through September. Once adults, females return to their nesting beach every two or more years to lay from two to seven nests per season.

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Vedra and volunteers directly assisted in the hatching and releasing. Now, nests are marked with orange tape and left to emerge naturally.

Each nest contains on average 100-126 eggs.

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Here’s How You Can Help: DO NOT DISTURB sea turtle tracks, eggs, adults, hatchlings or nest markers.

Limit night-time beach activity during nesting season, May 1 – October 31.

Turn off or shield all beach lighting and keep seaward windows covered.

Keep beach clean of trash, especially balloons, ribbons and plastic bags.

The Sea Turtle Patrol meticulously excavates each nest after turtles have hatched and emerged to count and record the number of eggs. “The least I’ve had was 70 and the largest was 170,” says Stam.

Florida is the most popular nesting site for Loggerheads, with more than 67,000 nests built per year. Worldwide population numbers are unknown, but scientists studying nesting populations are seeing marked decreases despite endangered species protections.

From the time a Loggerhead hatches on our coastal shores, 25 years will pass before she returns to lay her eggs. She is never lost, however, as she follows the path of her ancestors on one of the most extraordinary voyages in the natural world. • For more information, to adopt a nest or make a donation, visit: https://sites.google.com/site/ pontevedraseaturtlepatrol/ Or call: Wesley Moore (904) 686-0052

Keep beach furniture and toys out of nesting areas.

Do not leave holes in beach sand for turtles or hatchlings to fall in.

Report all incidents of disturbance that you may witness to the appropriate authorities.

Never use flash photography or flashlights, even red-filtered ones, at a nest site. Even lights from cell phones can disturb the hatchlings if they are near the top of the nest.

Heed instructions from patrol volunteers if you are fortunate enough to witness a nest emergence.

If you find a hatchling do not put it in the ocean. Place it in a bucket of moist sand, cover with a towel and call PVSTP immediately.

Buy a sea turtle specialty tag for your vehicle.

Support PVSTP’s efforts by making donations or adopting a nest.

SPORt

A VesseL oF A DIFFeRent KInD

By Randall Taylor

The tradition of sport typically involves a duel, a contest or a Football, golf, tennis, baseball – all share these elements in entertaining to watch, whether or not you’ve ever picked up

race, harnessing physical strength and cunning strategy. one form or another. That’s really what makes sports a racket, glove or ball.

tHe tYPes oF sPoRts we’re exposed to as children is sometimes a function of geography and financial resources. Surfing is not exactly a varsity sport in Missouri, and there are probably no ice hockey lettermen in the public high schools of South Central LA. American sports are broadcast just about everywhere. It’s not uncommon to find a YankeeRed Sox game on the television set of a home in the Philippines or an NBA playoff being shown in a bar in Budapest, but if you were to attempt to tune in to surf skiing, the veritable TV screen would likely show static.

Picture a kayak on steroids: a long and narrow vessel, measuring 21 feet long by 17 inches wide, sans the apron used to keep you tucked in (you have to sit on top of this one), made of the latest composites of carbon, Kevlar and fiberglass and weighing something south of 25 pounds. The paddle is no less impressive, a better one made of carbon, with one scoop on either end, weighing only ounces. Thoughts conjure up a human-propelled rocket ship on the water.

Although back in 1913 when, arguably, the first surf ski was conceived, its design could be no further from what exists today.

The surf ski was developed simultaneously in South Africa and Australia.

In the former, for riding large swells in the ocean and in the latter, for busting through the surf to rescue swimmers in distress. Both countries claim a rich history centered around the surf ski, but what drew me to the sport was watching Tom Selleck, of “Magnum PI” fame, race one across the Molokai Channel in Hawaii. With depths reaching nearly 3,000 feet and consistent 40 mph winds, this treacherous waterway throws mountainous waves at vessels, daring to make passage through the 32-mile stretch between the islands of Molokai and Oahu.

I found my surf ski at a local shop in Jacksonville Beach, First Coast Outfitters, where I was promptly coupled to a vessel made by Epic, a company which not only builds and markets all sorts of kayaks but also embraces its customers. I immediately connected with Epic’s CEO, Oscar Chalupsky, 12-

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PICtURe A KAYAK on steRoIDs

time winner of the famed Molokai Challenge and mentor to many customers around the world via Facebook. When I asked Oscar how to prepare for the Molokai Challenge, he told me, “go to Tarifa first and paddle with Boyan.”

Fast forward to this past May where I found myself sitting on a picturesque patio of the Arte Vida Hotel after a 17-hour journey to Tarifa, on Spain’s southern coast, just miles from Gibraltar.

With North Africa in view, just 14 miles across the waterway, this is where I would attend boot camp to the sport of surf skiing.

Boyan Zlaterev, as referred to by Oscar Chalpusky, is the coach at Epic’s training camp and General Manager of Epic Europe. He promptly greeted me at the hotel and nearly yanked the cheese croquette from my mouth, not 10 minutes after I arrived, saying “I’m glad you’ve arrived, we were just leaving to paddle. I’ll meet you at the beach in 10 minutes.”

What soon transpired was five days of exhaustive paddling drills, analysis of my stroke via slow motion filming at 30 frames per second, the transfer of a wealth of theory on reading the waves ahead of me and the wind behind me, not to mention, hours of heart-pounding skiing three-meter waves in 30 knot winds. The Bulgarian coach lived up to his Eastern European nononsense roots. I absorbed priceless tips about surf skiing and even more about myself. One comrade that week was Marianno, the Argentinian expat Ponte Vedra Life

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Photographed Randall Taylor

tHIs sPoRt Is not GLAMoRoUs, It’s MoRe ABoUt seLF-sAtIsFACtIon, ReMInDInG Us tHAt no MAtteR HoW stRAteGIC oR PHYsICALLY ADePt one MAY Be, tHe eGo Is PUt In CHeCK oUt At seA. living in Dubai who once represented his country in Tae Kwon Do: nothing short of a serious athlete. Thanks to the way he rolled his r’s and his comedic personality, I was able to laugh my way through an awful lot of salt water in my gullet. Returning to Jax Beach, not only rich in information and confident to take on virtually any sea condition safely, I made friends for life out of Marianno and Boyan and landed with renewed excitement to train for the Molokai Challenge in May 2015.

It’s easy to see how surf skiing as a sport remains virtually anonymous here in the states. After all, there are no arenas with bright lights illuminating the ocean, no $1,500 box seats, kids throwing popcorn or expensive TV commercial time for networks to sell against the terror of riding the face of a large swell miles from shore and almost always just minutes shy of hypothermia. No, this sport is not glamorous, it’s more about self-satisfaction, reminding us that no matter how strategic or physically adept one may be, the ego is put in check out at sea. •

Photography by Lucas Tozzi Photographed Oscar Chalupsky

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Photography by : 904 Happy Hour

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Photography by : PRI PRODUCTIONS

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Photography by: PRI PRODUCTIONS

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Photography by: PRI PRODUCTIONS

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laND

Jackson – Florida’s New

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ville

Beach

Front Porch

By PVL Team

It’s called living the “Salt Life” and it’s heating up all the way from Atlantic Beach to South Jacksonville Beach. With the economic rebound, architects and builders are seeing a growing demand in the beaches area of Northeast Florida. This boom though is taking on a new and modern coastal look. Young families and investors are changing the landscape of the beaches from a sleepy community filled with 1960s single-story block homes into a modern, environmentally smart and upscale lifestyle more associated Beach in South Beach

with places like Laguna Southern California or in Miami.

Jacksonville Beach was recently listed as one of the 10 hottest suburbs in the country by real estate blog Movoto. com. “South Jacksonville Beach, or ‘Atlantic Shores’ as it is called is indeed experiencing a renaissance that started with one contemporary home and grew from there,” said Mark Macco of Mark Macco Architects. Macco, who is also the chapter director of the American Institute of Architects for Jacksonville, is part of that renaissance; his latest project is his own home in South Jacksonville Beach. It is part of the modern design trend sweeping the beaches community. But modern isn’t just about the design, it’s about the technology, the green rooftop spaces, solar panels and sustainable design. “The seed was planted around eight years ago, and has now become the place to be for new single family custom homes that have a contemporary beach sensibility, adds Macco.”

Macco’s home is among several in the beaches community to utilize the latest construction materials that are making the transition from commercial to residential use. CMU, concrete masonry units and ICF, insulated concrete forms are now within reach of home builders, provide added insulation and increased resistance to the elements along with a substantial savings for heating and cooling. CMU and ICF also create an opportunity for a more sleek and modern look.

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His builder, Irina Johnson, is President of Aria Homes. Johnson is finding that, “many of today’s custom home buyers aren’t looking for the extra square footage. They want a smart home that is efficient, livable, and cost effective.” Johnson also says that builders, “are using products that increase durability and efficiency in the home and they are far more affordable now than they used to be.”

Johnson’s company recently tore down a dated duplex to break ground for former First Coast News Anchor Charlene Shirk and her husband Mark Mantarro’s new home in Neptune Beach. The couple is using the ICF technology along with impact resistant windows; an occupiable concrete roof and INSTEON smart home automated technology.“ If we were going to build at the beach, we wanted to be strategic about it,” said Shirk. “I’ve covered enough hurricanes and nor’easters to see that very often it came down to the way the home was constructed or the materials that were used as to whether or not it made it through the storm.” While the couple agreed on the home’s construction materials they differed slightly with its design. “My husband really loves the more contemporary look of so many new homes going up at the beach,” adds Shirk, “but I also wanted to be respectful of the existing structures and create a look that would

The active lifestyle and scenic environment is an obvious draw to the beaches area, but it’s also the economic recovery that has re-energized building and construction.

Allen also points out that these beach development projects are a perfect fit for the young team running his organization.

“There is always something going on, a concert in the park, a festival, a charity run, or just a block BBQ,” adds Allen.

“Corner Lot is fortunate to be a part of this building growth, it’s exciting to see a new creative energy in this area.”

“With the economic rebound, we’ve seen a large demand at the beach, but especially in Jacksonville Beach,” said Andy Allen, president of Cornet Lot Properties. The quickly expanding company is also sharing in the benefits of the economic rebound; as seen by its signs up and down the beach of construction projects underway by Corner Lot Properties.

Locals spend their weekends biking, surfing, running or rollerblading. The area’s affordability and community lifestyle is catching the attention of transplants moving into the state over more traditional local hot spots. “Our customers relocating from across the globe are choosing South Jacksonville Beach to call home,” said Joy Doyle, co-owner of Hover Girls Properties, a full

complement the neighborhood.” The couple compromised on a modern style with stone features, wood accents and neutral tones.

{

Outdoor life is huge here, and draws everyone from families, to retirees to young professionals in condos and apartments.

}

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service real estate firm with a primary focus on the military community coming in and out of Jacksonville.

“People love the vibe of Jacksonville Beach along with Neptune Beach,” adds Doyle.

First Street is the main drag and it runs through all the beach communities.

Outdoor life is huge here, and draws everyone from families, to retirees to young professionals in condos and apartments. The median price of a single-family home at the beach is north of $300,000. That’s not oceanfront, but it’s close enough to count. “With steady gains in property values and still low interest rates, Jacksonville Beach is a very affordable place to live,” notes Andrew Bell, realtor at The Legends of Real Estate East Coast. “It’s quite possibly the most affordable beach living on the east coast of Florida.”

“We knew we were doing something special in Paradise Key South Beach

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when we caught the attention of HGTV,” said Lon Walton, developer of Paradise Key South Beach and owner of Quest Real Estate, “Our community has helped highlight Jacksonville Beach through the construction of the HGTV Smart Home 2013 built

by Glenn Layton Homes. The house includes the latest in smart home technology on the inside but is still very authentic in keeping with the original Jacksonville Beach coastal architecture on the outside.”

The multitude of festivals, enhanced nightlife, waterparks, golf and a growing number of non-chain restaurants are also keeping pace with the evolution of the beaches area. Growth management, building height restrictions and finding the right balance of policing, parking and politics remain issues on which to keep a watchful eye. But right now the future looks bright for a community and its residents who want to live where many people save all year long just to visit. •

Sea “A ship was stranded off Cape Hatteras on the Diamond Shoals and one of the life saving crew reported the fact that this ship had run ashore on the dangerous shoals. The old skipper gave the command to man the lifeboat and one of the men shouted out that we might make it out to the wreck but we would never make it back.

The old skipper looked around and said, ‘The Blue Book says we’ve got to go out and it doesn’t say a damn thing about having to come back.”

As written by CBM Clarence P. Brady, USCG (Ret.), published in the March 1954 issue of Coast Guard magazine.

T

hat statement, though dramatic, isn’t an over exaggeration. The regulations of the Coast Guard require that a guardsman makes every effort to save a life “until by actual trial the impossibility of effecting a rescue is demonstrated.” This sense of duty combined with the term semper paratus, Latin for “always ready,” defines the modern warrior who serves as a guardsman both today and in the past.

Semper Paratus: always ready

by Rich Craven While you may be familiar with the lifesaving and search and rescue activities of the United States Coast Guard (USCG), you might not know about some of the other missions that our brave men and women in the Guard perform every day to insure our safety and our nations’ national security. We are very fortunate to have a local USCG Sector and Station in our own backyard.

The St John’s River, its tributaries and the Atlantic Ocean are priceless assets that define Jacksonville and its surrounding environs as a world-class community and destination. To help protect this fragile ecology, the Coast Guard helps educate boaters, maritime shippers and businesses that abut or utilize these waterways on proper stewardship and pollution control.

They are semper paratus to respond to environmental disasters and for enforcement of hazardous discharges and to prevent the introduction of

invasive species into our waterways.

An example of the Coast Guard in action on maritime stewardship was the appointment of the Coast Guard as the responsible agency to coordinate the response to the BP oil spill in 2010.

Maritime stewardship also encompasses safe and efficient waterways for America to conduct its commerce. Blunt Island is one of the largest ports in the nation and Sector Mayport maintains the navigational aids, mapping, charting, pilotage information, technical assistance, tide and current data to mariners.

Maritime safety, a key responsibility of the Coast Guard, includes search and rescue as well as little known activities like review and approval of plans for boat construction, the inspection of maritime facilities and offshore rigs.

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US citizens. The approval of boating safety equipment and the review and investigation of maritime accidents and emergencies are also activities under maritime safety. The Coast Guard is also empowered with “cite and arrest” authority and is considered a federal law enforcement agency as part of the Department of Homeland Security.

Port security remains an important role for the Sector Jacksonville command.

Several important military installations and assets reside with Sector’s area of responsibility including the Kennedy Space Center, Blunt Island USMC Terminal, Mayport Naval Station, Kings Bay Naval Station, and Jacksonville Naval Air Station to name a few.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary is an allvolunteer civilian part of “Team Coast Guard” and provides free boat safety inspections upon request to private boat owners. They also serve with the Coast Guard manning several duties typically held by a full-time or reservist team member but only if fully qualified and under Coast Guard direction. Flying enthusiasts will appreciate that the Auxiliary maintains an Air Wing which patrols our waterways under command

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of the Coast Guard and has roles for pilots, air crew and spotters.

The Auxiliary also provides a day-long boating education class for mariners and provides a Florida Safe Boating Certification at the end of the class. It is highly recommended for all boaters but most certainly for those either considering or purchasing a new boat or personal watercraft including jet skis and kayaks. Visit www.uscgajaxbeach.com for more information on these services.

The attacks on 9/11 awakened America to how important it is for us to stay vigilant and be prepared to protect our citizens and national interests from potential terrorist attacks or foreign aggression. The Coast Guard is tasked by our national government to plan for, coordinate, and defend our ports and to deny terrorists the use of our waterways to mount attacks on the U.S. through sabotage, accidents or other illegal acts. Because of the unique law enforcement powers and experience that the Coast Guard maintains as part of its mission parameters, the Coast Guard has been used overseas for at-sea interceptions, anti-piracy, drug interdiction, and critical warfare activities.

Look around with pride at your neighbors who serve or who have served in this unique military branch of service. Thank them for their sacrifice for our nation, and rest comfortably knowing that guardsman are always semper paratus, always at their station, alert and attending to their duties.

USCG Sector Jacksonville Sector Jacksonville is headquartered in Mayport, Fla. on the southern bank of the St. John’s River and is comprised of multiple commands that span the entire gamut of Coast Guard Missions.

Over 40,000 square miles of coastal and inland waterways stretching from King’s bay, Ga. to Port Malabar, Fla. are part of Sector Jacksonville’s area of responsibility.

Besides Station Mayport, Sector Jacksonville has two additional Security Detachments located at Ponce de Leon Inlet and at Port Canaveral. Significant water assets are four Coast Guard Cutters, MARIA BRAY, KINGFISHER, SHRIKE and the HAMMER, and two teams located in Ponce de Leon and in Jacksonville Beach on Penman Road responsible for maintaining Aids to Navigation which are buoys for you landlubbers.

Captain Tom Allan is Sector Jacksonville Captain with Command Master Chief

Coast Guard Facts* In 2012, over 43,000 active duty members, over 8,000 reservists, over 8,800 civilian employees, and over 30,000 volunteer auxiliarists: Responded to 19,790 search and rescue cases, saved 3,560 lives and more than $77 million in property.

Removed 107 metric tons of cocaine bound toward the U.S. via the Transit Zone.

Continued the deployment of six patrol boats and 400 personnel to protect Iraqi critical maritime oil infrastructure and train Iraqi naval forces.

Conducted 919 escorts and patrols to support 190 domestic U.S. military cargo out-loads.

Conducted 25,500 container inspections, 5,000 facility safety and marine pollution related inspections, and 1,195 cargo transfer monitors to ensure safety and environmental stewardship of the maritime domain.

Conducted 1,424 boardings of high interest vessels designated as posing a greater-thannormal risk to the United States.

Interdicted nearly 3,000 undocumented migrants attempting to illegally enter the U.S. Conducted over 3,700 safety and security exams on vessels operating on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf.

Conducted over 11,600 annual inspections on U.S. flag vessels.

Conducted 4,603 investigations for reportable marine casualties involving commercial vessels.

Conducted over 49,000 recreational vessel boardings, issued over 12,000 citations, and visited 1,150 recreational boat manufacturers.

Conducted over 6,000 fisheries conservation boardings.

Investigated and responded to over 3,300 pollution incidents.

Verified more than 70,000 Transportation Worker Identification Credentials. *2012

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Bethesda Waters‌ Photography by Shepherd Boggs

Holding on to every breath, I take in purity and reach for the light‌

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Photography: Shepherd Boggs Model: Blake,

New Version Model Management

Creative Director: Inger Williamson Wardrobe Stylist: Melissa Intemann Hair Artist: Mindy Stamulis Makeup Artist: Hillary Warren Location: Ginnie Springs

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StYle

M-PIRE

Our very own, Mel Intemann took to the streets to ask, “What’s in the bag?”

Favorites from our local stores for your beach bag this summer.

In the shade(s)…

Emilie Christenson, owner of Jaffis & Kyds Boutiques, never leaves home without her A. J. Morgan sunglasses.

Venturing out on the boat you don’t have to worry about losing these because they are only $15!

A.J. Morgan Sunglasses, Jaffis, $15

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Protectin’ & Keepin’ Cool…

Cathy Thomasson & Cara Burky, owners of Sidney Cardel’s, lather up in this fabulous sunscreen while keeping their beverages looking “special” (and cold) in nothing else, but an insulated Freaker.

Island Company Sunscreen, Sidney Cardel’s, $20 Freakers, Sidney Cardel’s, $10

Flippin’ out & Soakin’ it up!

I, Mel Intemann, like to flip out! With my featherweight flippers that weigh only 1.2 pounds! A leisurely swim turns into a leg toning session. Let’s not forget this must-have, I mean, I do have a seven year old, Predator Super Soaker. FUN! Aqua Shere Alphafins, aquasphereswim.com, $36.95 Play Visions, Target, $13.95

If the sandal fits...

Benham Bishop, owner of Emly Benham, hits the beach in what else? But these python cork sandals by K. Jacques.

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Organized, Balmy & Spritzed!

Gwen Berlin, owner of Gwen Berlin, keeps all of her beach bag goodies organized in this hand-woven cosmetic bag, which is where she stows her yummy Bobbi Brown lip balm. Protect your lips and look good with the SPF 15 it provides. After the sun and the sand, she spritzes a little Beso Del Mar on her wrists and neck. Nothing better than a parfum that denotes a “kiss of the sea!”

“Samui” cosmetic bag, JADEtribe, Gwen Berlin, $55 Spadaro Luxury Fragrance, “Beso Del Mar Parfum,” Gwen Berlin, $95 Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss SPF 15, Dillards, $20

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Summer

Fashion Show Photography by Kelsey Thomas

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CaRa-BOUt-It

Photography by Jessie Preza

From a very young age, Luke and Nora Preza have been avid beachgoers. Their love

for the ocean began in the shallow tide pools in Jacksonville Beach and has since developed to be as deep as the sea itself. Luke has always had a fascination with animals and he and Nora both care deeply about the earth. Not only are they oceanologists in their own right, they are also very talented artists and their mom, Jessie is a website developer and photographer. So, over his 2012 spring break, Luke asked his mom if they could start a website incorporating both their love for the ocean as well as their creative talents, and thus, Salty Kidz was born. The Preza family put their heads together and developed a site that promotes ocean education and sells locally made children’s beach apparel.

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Visitors to saltykidz.com can learn about “Sea Friendz,” including the blue whale and the seahorse and there’s even a “Safety Tips” page where kids can learn about ocean safety and riptides.

Salty Kidz also provides endless suggestions on how to be more involved in cleaning up local beaches.

“So far, the company has adopted a manatee named Rosie as well as a local sea turtle nest. We are in the process of organizing a beach cleanup and involving other families who have the same love for the ocean as we do, to get involved,” says Jessie. The website offers simple suggestions for children and adults to help conserve our waters such as using less plastic and recycling.

It may seem like no-brainers, but Salty Kidz presents them in such a fun way that kids will love to learn and listen.

There’s even a Salty Kidz theme song by local artist, Meredith Rae. Another easy way to help save our seas

is to shop Salty Kidz; all beach apparel is drawn and designed by the Salty Kidz themselves, Luke and Nora. Kids can support their favorite sea creature by rocking a shirt to raise awareness in their community. From t-shirts to cover-ups and hats, Salty Kidz threads are locally made of a vintage-style super comfy fabric that kids of all ages will love to wear. And the best part — a portion of all purchases will help the Salty Kidz do what they do best, saving the seas one kid at a time!

Salty Kidz is a fully local and familyrun business that’s all about sharing a love of the ocean, sea animals, art and most importantly, water safety and conservation. It’s a website designed by kids, for kids; the perfect combination of fashion, facts and fun! Visit www. saltykidz.com to be a part of the family and stop by Sidney Cardel’s in Jacksonville Beach to purchase your

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Catch

Florida’s

Fresh Fish This Mayport-based company gets it right

by Keith Rydh, Foodies USA

We’ve all heard that “farm-to-table” is trending in the foodie world. We think of chefs getting up at sunrise and visiting the local farmers markets to pick up fresh produce for their daily menus. We imagine free-range cattle and chickens being raised on happy little farms, the way nature intended. But most of our readers are in a coastal area — and we love our seafood — so let’s dive in headfirst and get salty with “ocean-to-table!”

There is truly nothing better or fresher than catching your own fish. Unfortunately, most of us have to work and just don’t have that kind of time. That includes chefs and restaurateurs too. So here’s the secret

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behind the freshness of your favorite seafood restaurant.

I met up with the manager of Mayport C&C Fisheries, Josh Harris, to dive into the side of the industry that most people don’t think about. I, of course, had to add my “foodie” twist, while looking into the best fresh fish in town.

Keith Rydh: Josh, thank you for your time. Let’s start by getting a little history about the Mayport C&C Fisheries.

Josh Harris: We are a fish company that provides high-quality seafood to many seafood restaurants and fish markets. We’re a fresh seafood wholesaler that specializes in being a seafood wholesale distributor. Mayport

C&C Fisheries was started by Atillio Cerueiro and his first partner, whose last name also started with a C — hence the C&C Fisheries. They began the business in 1986 after getting their feet wet in another seafood company.

It all started as a fresh fish house and has grown into a wholesale seafood distributor. Atillio is presently the sole owner.

KR: Do you sell directly to the public?

JH: Yes, on a limited basis. Our primary customers are restaurants and fresh markets.

KR: What areas do you serve?

JH: Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Orange Park, Gainesville, Ocala and Lady Lakes. We are looking to expand our market share and future delivery areas.

KR: What products do you feature?

JH: Mostly fresh and frozen seafood, but we also carry alligator sausage and meat, frog legs, lobster ravioli and a lot of sushi items, such as pickled ginger and nori rolls.

KR: Any personal favorites for you or the staff?

JH: Although my personal favorite is local Grey Grouper, as a staff, we will eat any seafood we have. We love seafood!

KR: Who doesn’t? On your social media, you feature a “Restaurant of the Day.” Tell us about that.

JH: We feature one of our restaurants or

markets every day, and an item that they are using. We try to link with their social sites to help promote them.

KR: A little FoodiesUSA-style promoting going on at C&C — I like it! Which place has done the most unique preparation of your fish or products?

JH: A chef at a food show demonstrated a variety of breakfast dishes that seafood can be used with. I think seafood is underutilized as a morning dish. Did I say, I love seafood?

KR: I can relate to that. The only seafood for breakfast that I remember is some good ol’ lox! Now for some fun questions that I’m sure our foodies will enjoy. For oysters, is it true that you should only eat them during the “R” months (months that contain an R in their names), or is that an urban legend?

JH: Both. It used to be true because of the lack of refrigeration for oysters, but with today’s refrigerated shipments, the seafood is a lot safer to eat.

KR: I noticed on your website that you do offer Chilean Sea Bass, which was once on the endangered list. What are your policies about this?

JH: We buy our sea bass strictly from Chile and insist on the correct species, Spp eleginoides. That cuts down on the amount of poached and mislabeled fish.

KR: What are your concerns about overfishing and questionable fishing practices, like long lining?

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JH: Overfishing is of great concern to our company since it directly affects our business’ bottom line and viability. We think smart regulations are necessary to protect both our business and the future of the seafood industry. We think great strides have been made in fishing regulations in this country.

Most long liners operate within guidelines established to protect the fishery. Turtle and dolphin extruders have severely cut down on fatalities associated with those species. While bycatch will always be associated with commercial fishing, as long as prudent safeguards are implemented, results will be successful. As a company, we feel that farmed seafood will become a greater alternative to wild-caught fresh.

Seafood farms have made great strides in keeping their ecological footprint to a minimum, and provide more of the world’s protein intake every year.

KR: From looking at the items offered on the website, how do you get fresh, non-local items like Maine lobster or crawfish?

JH: Northern fresh items are usually brought twice a week on a truck originating out of Boston. We receive shipments six days a week from Miami, which forwards them from South Florida, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. We also receive air shipments worldwide. Fresh crawfish comes from Louisiana.

KR: Love me some New Orleans crawdaddies! I have to ask... I was surprised Mayport shrimp wasn’t on the list. Why is that?

JH: In the industry, they’re known as East Coast Whites, which are called Mayport shrimp in Jacksonville. They are very

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good and popular!

KR: Do you have any recipes?

JH: Personally, a lot and no, I’m not sharing! But as a company, no, we only sell to the chefs and let their creativity flourish.

KR: How good are you guys at butchering fish? What do you do with the waste?

JH: Our butchering is as good as I have ever seen. We have some videos along with tips on our website. Almost all of the useable waste gets sold to various restaurants and markets to use for many applications.

KR: We always like to see and hear about recycling. Tell us, does Mayport C&C Fisheries have any community involvement?

JH: We support many recycling projects, Habitat for Humanity and we have gone green, as most of our trucks use natural gas.

KR: Keeping it green too, nice! Josh, I want to thank you for your time and the visit. It’s always great getting a behind-the-scenes look in our industry, and I must say I’m impressed with the operation, the time and consideration you give locally, and with what you’re giving back to the community. Not to mention, keeping our seafood fresh now, and for what looks to be a long time! • For a complete list of the fresh and frozen products Mayport C&C Fisheries offers, and their complete delivery area, visit www.candcfisheries.com. Don’t miss the videos, tips and “Restaurant of the Day!”

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r e m m u S Sips SIP

BY INGER WILLIAMSON

Cool down this summer with these creative local libations

t

aste buds evolve seasonally through mood and character; they originate from our roots and upon that first sip of a freshly made cocktail, they can take us to a cheerful place on a summer’s day or an elegant dinner overlooking the sea. Either way, whether it’s fruity and sweet or crisp and salty, there’s no feeling quite like that first sip.

Never sure what to order? Now you can revamp your knowledge of fine, creative spirits with this collection of handcrafted cocktails offered by skilled tenders at some of Jacksonville’s finest lounges. Trust us, we’ve tried them… Salute!

Favela Nights

Watermelon Bliss

Take a quick trip to Brazil and experience its darker side.

Blackberry infused cachaca, blackberry simple syrup, lime.

An endless summer comes

Texas Sweet Tea

in the form of this lively, refreshing margarita made with Maestro Dobel reposado tequila, agave nectar, fresh watermelon, cucumber, lime, and lemon.

It’s their version of an Arnold Palmer with a twist! Deep Eddy Sweet Tea Vodka, house made lemonade, Cointreau, fresh lemon.

Summer Porch Sling St. Tropez breeze on your face and cocktail in hand. This clean tasting gin sits well with fresh berries and a splash of St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur giving you a touch of summer.

Socially Awkward

Mango Mojito

Manhattan Perfected

Crucial Taunt

It’s ok to be different.

Pineapple and jalapeño-infused 360 vodka, St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur, white cranberry, fresh lime.

Mashed and muddled to perfection. Bacardi Limon, mango puree, mint, lime.

An understated elegance. Angel’s Envy Bourbon, Carpano Antica Formula, Vya Extra Dry Vermouth, Luxardo Cherry.

Get a little spice in your life. El Dorado Three-year Rum, Thai chili infused Aperol, pineappleginger shrub, lime juice.

eatS

by Keith Rydh, Foodies USA

With Memorial Day passing, summer officially kicks off and in the foodie world that means barbeque season is upon us. Weekend cookouts with friends and family are in order with a fun-filled day of outdoor games in the backyard, or lounging by the pool. Don’t forget about some tailgating at the game or a concert. So how can you elevate your grillin’ and take things to the next level? I thought I’d share some secrets to the trade that I’ve learned from judging competitions and talking to the grill masters themselves.

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One of the biggest “age-old” questions is what to cook with: charcoal, gas or wood? Most competitions and true grillers will tell you that charcoal or wood is the way to go for flavor, and I would agree. Charcoal and wood not only give a truer barbeque flavor, but also require a little more patience and a “low ‘n’ slow” demeanor.

If using charcoal, try to avoid lighter fluids and invest in a chimney starter to get all of your coals hot and then place them into your grill. Extra bonus tip, soak a paper towel in vegetable oil and place it at the bottom of the chimney to get the charcoal burning without distorting any natural flavors. Gas has the advantage of being easier to maintain temperature, it’s easier to travel with for tailgating, plus it’s simply cleaner to use. Just make sure your rubs and sauces are on point to make up for the lack of cooking flavor and no one will be disappointed.

Another easy tip to assure your fare looks first-rate – after all, we do eat with our eyes first – is to cook on a hot grill. Preheating the grill is essential to prevent food from sticking and having to use a spatula as a scraper. A properly heated grill will sear the food like an expert, adding to the taste and seal the juices inside keeping your meats moist. For an added tip, when you first get the grill hot, clean the surface with a brush, as any remains from your last barbeque will come off much easier and ensure you’re cooking clean. If you still have trouble with foods sticking,

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try soaking a paper towel in vegetable oil and carefully use your tongs to wipe the grill surface. I say “carefully” because your oil can ignite.

Preparing the meal before cooking will guarantee the best results. Who wants to run around for missing tools or overestimate prep time while other foods may be overcooking or sitting too long due to lack of planning? Have a game plan and all ingredients (including spices and rubs) ready to go along with the necessary cutting boards. Be certain all needed plates or serving platters are nearby and don’t have to be hunted down last minute. Also, if you’re marinating, make sure you prep the night before and let the flavors marry together in the fridge.

Lastly, how do you check if it’s done? Avoid cutting into the meats as that will allow the juices to escape and lead to dry foods. Get a simple instaread thermometer and stick it into the thick part of the meat. Remember, when you remove the food from the grill, it’s still cooking in what’s referred to as “carryover cooking.” Cutting into your meat too soon will let all the good juices bleed out. Let it sit a good five to ten minutes for the juices to redistribute evenly. Over time you will get to know the grill, its heat and how it cooks – and before you know it, you’ll be grilling to perfection. •

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COaStal a-lISt

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GOLF ISSUE Release Party

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