North East Florida - 6 by The 55 Spotlight

NORTH EAST FLORIDA VOL. 6

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: FEATURED ARTICLES

RETIREMENT • INVESTING • VACATION

RECOMMENDED SERVICE DIRECTORY

TRAVEL • LIVING • HEALTH • DINING

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CO NTE NT S

FEATURES 4

What are Annuities

Feng Shui & Design

Wedding Planning

Local Event Guide

27 Health & Food 29 Train Travel

Recommended Service Directory

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CO NTE NT S 2023-24 SCHEDULES

PGA Tournaments

LPGA Tournaments

Grand Slam Tennis Tournaments - Australian

Grand Slam Tennis Tournaments - French

Grand Slam Tennis Tournaments - Wimbledon

Grand Slam Tennis Tournaments - US Open

Recommended Service Directory

N O R T H E A S T F L O R I D A | V O L . 6

WHAT ARE

ANNUITIES? An annuity is an investment vehicle that can provide a guaranteed income for an individual or their spouse. It is a contract with an insurance company or financial institution where you contribute money upfront and at a specific time receive payments back over the course of your lifetime. There are several advantages to investing in an annuity. First, it is tax deferred which means no taxes until you begin taking the income. Second, you can choose a fixed rate annuity where you will always receive the

same amount regardless of market conditions. Third, you will receive payment even if you receive more than your original investment. Fourth, there are annuities with death benefits for heirs. There are many different types of annuities, all of which have different features, benefits and costs but they fall into three main categories: fixed, fixed index and variable. There are two types of payout options- deferred and immediate.

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FIXED ANNUITY A fixed annuity is based on a set interest rate and can increase in value over time. It guarantees income payments over your lifetime with the possibility of death benefits for heirs. There are two ways to purchase - either through a lump sum payment or a series of payments that increase the value of your annuity and therefore the total payout.

VARIABLE ANNUITY A variable annuity’s value will depend on market conditions and will rise and fall with the stock market. This means the possibility of a higher interest rate when the market is strong but in a weak market, the annuity could even lose value.

INDEXED ANNUITY An indexed annuity is based on the performance of a particular market index and the value of the annuity will be based on that particular index. Interest will be based on the index’s interest rate.

WHY BUY AN

ANNUITY? It is a good opportunity to be sure you have the resources to cover your essential monthly expenses such as mortgage or rent, insurance, utilities , travel, etc. The best thing about an annuity is that it does not run out no matter your age or the value of the investment. Start by analyzing your monthly expenses to figure out how much

income you need to cover basic bills. Don’t forget to consider and plan for inflation. When considering an annuity, the most important thing is to be sure to understand what you are investing in. They are complicated investments. Work with a trusted financial adviser to ensure your understanding of the risks and potential returns.

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N O R T H E A S T F L O R I D A | V O L . 6

FENG SHUI IN COLOR & DESIGN

Feng Shui, which literally means wind and water, is an ancient Chinese practice rooted in the theory of Yin and Yang. It is the ancient Chinese practice of using energy forces to harmonize individuals with their surrounding environment by organizing furniture, art, plants, and other objects within any given space or room to create peace and harmony. It has been used for centuries to determine building sites such as the Forbidden City in Beijing, which is built on a north-south axis with the main entrance facing south. It was believed to be the most propitious direction according to the feng shui masters. Additionally, the pyramid addition to the Louvre in Paris, Trump Tower in Manhattan, and the Sydney Opera House in Sydney have all been influenced by feng shui principles.

In interior design, feng shui is a tool to help design a room that makes you feel good and enhances health, prosperity, harmony and balance for a joyful life.

NORTH EAST FLORIDA | V OL. 6

Chinese philosophy is all about opposites masculine and feminine, dark and light, warm and cold. Additionally, there is a focus on the 5 elements which are wood, fire, earth, metal and water. These symbolize qualities such as stability, wisdom, growth and creativity. Decorating with the five elements is meant to bring joy and balance to your life. According to Better Homes and Gardens, you can feng shui your home with a few simple tips: Clear your home of clutter and open up the flow of traffic. This will create an atmosphere of calm by creating a welcoming entryway. Adding feng shui plants and positioning furniture in relation to the door will give a feeling of

control and empowerment, creating balance. And don’t forget to use feng shui with your color selections. The bedroom is the most important room for applying the principles of feng shui since we all spend so much time there. It is important to have the bed face the door but not straight-on. It is preferable to have a wall behind the bed so that you are aware if anyone is entering your space. This is referred to as command position. Use soft and muted pastel colors or earthen tones that you’d find in nature. Plants are not recommended for the bedroom as they are active and produce energy which is not conducive to the calm environment required in the bedroom. However, they are desirable throughout the rest of the home. Some of the best plants include lucky bamboo, orchids, jade, snake or rubber plants. Although there is no scientific basis for the use of feng shui in design, it is about making your environment a healthy and happy one for your family, so why not give it a try.

N O R T H E A S T F L O R I D A | V O L . 6

s g n i d Wed

NEW TRENDS FOR

After the thrill of an engagement, all attention moves to the upcoming wedding. It is a happy and exciting time for any couple and one filled with many choices and decisions. It can also be a stressful time if not properly organized. To make it a joyous event, a plan is essential and it starts with making lists of things to accomplish. Technology has made it much easier. There are on-line wedding planning tools for couples to use. Not only do they simplify wedding preparation, they save time and keep everything organized and in one place as opposed to old fashioned methods. Post-Covid backyard weddings are out and luxury is in. Couples want their venue to be special, whether it is the country club, a spectacular garden, a historic estate, or a clear top tent for dancing under the stars. They want it to reflect who they are and their own personal love story and even their cultural heritage.

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Oftentimes, couples are going for smaller, more intimate affairs. This allows more time to spend with people they care about most. It also helps with the budget and allows for spending on special effects or treats. Decor has shifted from traditional white to brighter, bolder colors. Couples can now more easily express their personalities. Food and flowers are often designed to be environmentally friendly using locally sourced products. Champagne towers add a touch of elegance and they have made a big comeback.

Hanging florals are a new and dramatic trend along with decorative ceremony aisles. Special effects lighting is another new trend. For a really unique look, go for a custom dance floor as the dance floor is often the center of the action at the wedding party. A new special effect is called cold sparks. The best explanation is indoor fireworks which add drama and sparkle to any event. They can be used in a variety of ways. Use them to light up the bride and groom’s entrance to the party, for first dances, or for the couple’s departure.

N O R T H E A S T F L O R I D A | V O L . 6

It is all about creating a memorable experience unlike any other. If you don’t have a lot of time to plan and implement all that is required for your wedding, consider hiring a wedding planner or pick a venue that coordinates the details for you. Country Clubs and Hotels are good at that as they often have excellent party planners on staff. Although a private wedding planner will add to the expense, they make sure the entire process runs smoothly from design issues, overseeing the budget, sending invitations, tracking RSVPs, managing vendors, and coordinating the schedule of the wedding. At a minimum, be sure to have someone in charge on the day of the wedding for any last minute issues that arise.

NORTH EAST FLORIDA | V OL. 6

2024 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change

DATES

TOURNAMENT

COVERAGE

JAN 1 - 7

The Sentry + Plantation Course at Kapalua, Kapalua, Maui, Hawaii

GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

JAN 8 - 14

Sony Open in Hawaii Waialae Country Club, Honolulu, Hawaii

GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

JAN 15 - 21

PGA WEST Pete Dye Stadium Course, Nicklaus Tournament Course, La Quinta Country Club, La Quinta, California

GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

JAN 22 - 27

Farmers Insurance Open Torrey Pines Golf Course, (South Course, North Course) San Diego, California

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

JAN 29 - FEB 4

AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am + Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill Golf Course, Pebble Beach, California

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

FEB 5 - 11

WM Phoenix Open TPC Scottsdale (Stadium Course), Scottsdale, Arizona

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

FEB 12 - 18

The Genesis Invitational + The Riviera Country Club, Pacific Palisades, California

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

FEB 19 - 25

Mexico Open at Vidanta Vidanta Vallarta, Vallarta, México

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

FEB 26 - MAR 3

The Classic in The Palm Beaches PGA National Resort (The Champion), Palm Beach Gardens, Florida

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

MAR 4 - 10

Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard + Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge, Orlando, Florida

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

MAR 4 - 10

Puerto Rico Open Grand Reserve Golf Club, Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

GOLF

MAR 11 - 17

THE PLAYERS Championship TPC Sawgrass (THE PLAYERS Stadium Course), Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

+ Signature Event # Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored ^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour

N O R T H E A S T F L O R I D A | V O L . 6

2024 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE DATES

TOURNAMENT

COVERAGE

MAR 18 - 24

Valspar Championship Innisbrook Resort (Copperhead Course), Palm Harbor, Florida

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

MAR 25 - 31

Texas Children’s Houston Open Memorial Park Golf Course, Houston, Texas

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

APRIL 1 - 7

Valero Texas Open TPC San Antonio (Oaks Course), San Antonio, Texas

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

APRIL 8 - 14

Masters Tournament # Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, Georgia

CBS, ESPN+

APRIL 15 - 21

RBC Heritage + Harbour Town Golf Links, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

APRIL 15 - 21

Corales Puntacana Championship Puntacana Resort & Club (Corales Golf Course), Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

GOLF

APRIL 22 - 28

Zurich Classic of New Orleans TPC Louisiana, Avondale, Louisiana

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

APRIL 29 - MAY 5

AT&T Byron Nelsons TPC Craig Ranch, McKinney, Texas

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

MAY 6 - 12

Wells Fargo Championship + Quail Hollow Club, Charlotte, North Carolina

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

MAY 6 - 12

Myrtle Beach Classic Dunes Golf & Beach Club, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

GOLF

MAY 13 - 19

PGA Championship # Valhalla Golf Club, Louisville, Kentucky

CBS, ESPN+

MAY 20 - 26

Charles Schwab Challenge Colonial Country Club, Fort Worth, Texas

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

RBC Canadian Open Hamilton Golf & Country Club, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

The Memorial Tournament presented by Workday + Muirfield Village Golf Club, Dublin, Ohio

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

MAY 27 - JUNE 2 JUNE 3 - 9

+ Signature Event # Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored ^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour

* Schedule subject to change

NORTH EAST FLORIDA | V OL. 6

2024 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE DATES

* Schedule subject to change

TOURNAMENT

COVERAGE

JUNE 10 - 16

U.S. Open # Pinehurst Resort & Country Club (Course No. 2), Village of Pinehurst, North Carolina

NBC, USA NETWORK, PEACOCK

JUNE 17 - 23

Travelers Championship + Highlands, Cromwell, Connecticut

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

JUNE 24 - 30

Rocket Mortgage Classic Detroit Golf Club, Detroit, Michigan

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

JULY 1 - 7

John Deere Classic TPC Deere Run, Silvis, Illinois

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

JULY 8 - 14

Genesis Scottish Open ^ The Renaissance Club, North Berwick, Scotland

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

JULY 8 - 14

TBA Event TBA, TBA

GOLF

JULY 15 - 21

Barracuda Championship Tahoe Mountain Club (Old Greenwood), Truckee, California

GOLF

JULY 22 - 28

3M Open TPC Twin Cities, Blaine, Minnesota

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

JUNE 29 - AUG 4

Olympic Men’s Golf Competition # Le Golf National, Paris, France

GOLF

Wyndham Championship Sedgefield Country Club, Greensboro, North Carolina

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

AUG 5 - 11

FEDEX CUP PLAYOFFS AUG 12 - 18

FedEx St. Jude Championship TPC Southwind, Memphis, Tennessee

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

AUG 19 - 25

BMW Championship Castle Pines Golf Club, Castle Rock, Colorado

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

AUG 26 - SEP 1

TOUR Championship East Lake Golf Club, Atlanta, Georgia

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

+ Signature Event # Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored ^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour

N O R T H E A S T F L O R I D A | V O L . 6

DATES DEC 8 - 11

2023-24 LPGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change ** Purse subject to change

TOURNAMENT

Grant Thornton Invitational Tiburón Golf Club and The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón

PURSE $4M

2024 JAN. 18-21

Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions Lake Nona Golf & Country Club in Orlando, Florida

$1.5M

JAN. 25-28

LPGA Drive On Championship Bradenton Country Club in Bradenton, Florida Honda LPGA Thailand Siam Country Club (Old Course) in Pattaya, Chonburi, Thailand HSBC Women’s World Championship Sentosa Golf Club in Singapore

1.75M

FEB 22-25 FEB 29-MAR 3

$1.8M

MAR 7-10

Blue Bay LPGA Jian Lake Blue Bay GC in Hainan Island, People’s Republic of China

$2.2M

MAR 21-24

Seri Pak LA Open Palos Verdes Golf Club in Palos Verdes Estates, California

$1.75M

MAR 28-31

Arizona Championship presented by JTBC TBD in Phoenix, Arizona

$2M

APR 3-7

LPGA Match Play at Shadow Creek Shadow Creek Golf Course in Las Vegas, Nevada

$2M

APR 18-21

The Chevron Championship The Club at Carlton Woods in The Woodlands, Texas

APR 25-28

JM Eagle LA Championship pres. by Plastpro Wilshire Golf Club in Los Angeles, California

$3M

MAY 9-12

Cognizant Founders Cup Upper Montclair Country Club in Clifton, New Jersey

$3M

MAY 16-19

Mizuho Americas Open Liberty National GC in Jersey City, New Jersey

$3M

U.S. Women’s Open MAY 30-JUN 2 Lancaster Country Club in Lancaster, Pennsylvania ShopRite LPGA Classic pres. by Acer Seaview, A Dolce Hotel (Bay Course) in Galloway, New JUN 7-9 Jersey Meijer LPGA Classic for Simply Give JUN 13-16 Blythefield Country Club in Grand Rapids, Michigan

$1.7M

$5.2M**

$11M** $1.75M $3M

NORTH EAST FLORIDA | V OL. 6

2024 LPGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change ** Purse subject to change

DATES

TOURNAMENT

PURSE

JUN 20-23

KPMG Women’s PGA Championship Sahalee Country Club in Sammamish, Washington

$10M**

JUN 27-30

Dow Great Lakes Bay Invitational Midland Country Club in Midland, Michigan

$3M

JUL 11-14

Amundi Evian Championship Evian Resort Golf Club in Evian-les-Bains, France

$6.5M**

JUL 18-21

Dana Open for Children Highland Meadows Golf Club in Sylvania, Ohio

$1.75M

JUL 25-28

CPKC Women’s Open Earl Grey Golf Club in Calgary, Alberta, Canada

$2.6M

AUG 1-4

Portland Classic Columbia Edgewater Country Club in Portland, Oregon

1.75M

AUG 8-11

2024 Paris Olympics Le Golf National in Paris, France

AUG 15-18

Women’s Scottish Open TBD in Scotland

$2M

AUG 22-25

AIG Women’s Open St Andrews (Old Course) in St Andrews, Fife, Scotland

$9M**

AUG 29-SEP 1

FM Global Championship TPC Boston in Norton, Massachusetts

$3.5M

SEP 13-15

Solheim Cup Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Gainesville, Virginia

SEP 19-22

Kroger Queen City Championship pres. by P&G TBD in Cincinnati, Ohio

$2M

SEP 27-29

Walmart NW Arkansas Championship pres. by P&G Pinnacle Country Club in Rogers, Arkansas

$3M

OCT 10-13

Buick LPGA Shanghai Qizhong Garden Golf Club in Shanghai, People’s Rep. of China

$2.1M

OCT 17-20

BMW Ladies Championship TBD in Republic of Korea

$2.2M

OCT 24-27

Maybank Championship Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

$3M

OCT 31-NOV 3

TOTO Japan Classic Seta Golf Course in Shiga, Japan

$2M

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE NORTH EAST FLORIDA PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.

DECEMBER

Dec 1 - 31 | NIGHTS OF LIGHTS Nights of Lights has been listed among the top ten holiday light displays in the world by National Geographic. During Nights of Lights, St. Augustine glows with holiday magic – from the ground to the rooftops. St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights features millions of tiny white lights that create a magical atmosphere in the Nation’s Oldest City. For more info visit: https://bit.ly/2GjYqrN

JANUARY

JAN 26 - 28 | BOAT SHOW The North Florida Marine Association invites you to join us at the Jacksonville Boat Show. There will be a large variety of boats on display, from skiing, fishing, cruisers, personal water-crafts and more. Special surprises for the kids as well as seminars and education for the adults. Be sure not to miss it, our goal is to get out on the water and have fun! For more info visit: https://bit.ly/3tzhJSN

JAN 11 - 14 | FILM FESTIVAL The St. Augustine Film Festival is a four-day festival in which foreign films, independent films, and documentaries are played daily at three of the city’s beautiful theaters. However, unlike an opening weekend at a big box office, you won’t see any films created by Spielberg or Hitchcock headlining the festival. For more info visit: staugfilmfest.com

FEBRUARY

FEB 7 | ART WALK Art Walk venues stretch across Downtown Jacksonville’s Northbank core and include James Weldon Johnson Park, The Jessie, The Breezeway at VyStar Tower, galleries, museums, restaurants, bars, Downtown businesses, and more. This event is a great way to meet fellow artists, buy and appreciate their work, and be part of Jacksonville’s rapidly growing art scene. For more info visit: iloveartwalk.com

FEB 29 | WINE FESTIVAL The St. Augustine Spanish Wine Festival is all about Spanish wine, cuisine and culture! All proceeds of the event will benefit local charities and organizations. Experience this one of a kind wine tasting event in the Nation’s Oldest City. For more info visit: spanishwinefestival.com

MARCH

MARCH 2 - 3 | STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL Enjoy a weekend full of family fun and festivities, delicious food, art and crafts, live entertainment, everything strawberry that you can imagine and so much more! For more info visit: https://bit.ly/3czEtu2 MARCH 9 - 10 | CELTIC HERITAGE FESTIVAL Join us for the St. Augustine Celtic Music & Heritage Festival in the nation’s oldest city. This annual, three-day event begins with an ‘early-bird’ whiskey tasting fol-

lowed by two days of live music by the top Celtic performers in the world as well as authentic Celtic food, highland games, and so much more. For more info visit: celticstaugustine.com

APRIL

APRIL 5 - 7 | SPRINGING THE BLUES The Springing The Blues is a free, outdoor blues music festival that celebrates America’s indigenous musical form. The three-day oceanfront event features national, regional and local blues artists on two stages. Please join us for a great time with blues on the beach! For more info visit: springingtheblues.com APRIL 6 - 7 | SEAFOOD FESTIVAL An all-American musical line-up once again lights up the stage at the St. Augustine Lions Seafood Festival this weekend. The nonstop entertainment features an eclectic mix of jazz, blues, acoustic, country and bluegrass. All of this

with amazing Florida seafood. For more info visit: lionsfestival.com APRIL 12 - 14 | MUSIC FESTIVAL The Gamble Rogers Music Festival in St. Augustine, Florida celebrates recording artist Gamble Rogers who died trying to save a drowning swimmer in 1991. A three-day event is hosted each May at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, featuring national, regional and St. Augustine musicians and storytellers on six stages. For more info visit: gamblerogersfest.org

MAY

MAY TBA | CRAFT BREWERS’ FESTIVAL Enjoy unlimited samples from 25+ local and regional breweries, food trucks, music, photo booth provided by Leonard’s, jump house and face painting for the kids, all while supporting the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum and Keepers of the Coast. For more info visit: stabrewersfest.com

MAY 25 - 28 | JAZZ FESTIVAL The Jacksonville Jazz Festival returns Memorial Day Weekend, May 25 - 28, 2024! The festival will kick off with the Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition presented by Keyboard Connection on Thursday, May 25th followed by three days of live, free entertainment along the St. Johns River! For more info visit: http://tinyurl.com/4xryvyuu

JUNE

JUNE 8 | TOMATO FEST Downtown Jacksonville, Texas A plethora of events surround Jacksonville’s annual tomato festival, creating an atmosphere of celebration throughout the week in “Tomatoville”. With much of the attractions lining Commerce Street - leading from the lawn of the award-winning and iconic Tomato Bowl stadium - this festival is a sight to behold. For more info visit: http://tinyurl.com/2m4ac3uk

JULY

JULY 4 | INDEPENDENCE DAY Enjoy live music, food vendors and spectacular free firework displays. Whether you are looking for a riverfront fireworks show in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville or in Jacksonville Beach at the Stars and Stripes at the Sea Walk Pavilion July 4th Celebration Jacksonville is where you’ll want to be this summer. For more info visit: https://bit.ly/33zQpbn JULY 10 - 20 | KINGFISH TOURNAMENT & FESTIVAL Reel in a big one! This is the largest kingfish tournament in the country. Anglers of all experience levels are welcome. For more info visit: kingfishtournament.com

AUGUST

AUG 3 - 10 | CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL Come visit the Jacksonville Caribbean Carnival, to enjoy new experiences, get to know a new and diverse culture, and spoil yourself

in our weekend’s festivities. For more info visit: jacksonvillecarnival.com

SEPTEMBER

SEPT TBA | COUNTY FAIR The biggest little fair in florida. Livestock shows, live entertainment, awesome midway, and some of the best fair food in town. Come on by with the whole family to enjoy all the fair has to offer! For more info visit: bakercountyfair.com SEPT 13 - 14 | FIN FEST Florida Fin Fest is a free two-day Ocean Conservation, Education, and Music Festival. For more info visit: flfinfest.com

OCTOBER

OCT 19 - 20 | AIR SHOW Jacksonville’s own, The Blue Angels, come home every year to thrill audiences with an air show. Witness thrills like never before from a variety of military and

civilian aerobatic demonstrations. The grand finale will be the Navy’s flight demonstration team: The Blue Angels. For more info visit: nasjaxairshow.com

NOVEMBER

NOV 30 | SHOPAPALOOZA FEST LocalShops1 is excited to bring the annual Shopapalooza Festival to downtown St. Petersburg. Join us at the beautiful waterfront Vinoy Park for the best and biggest celebration of local artists, crafters, makers, and small businesses. Shopapalooza showcases 250 local businesses and community organizations, plus a full lineup of local entertainment, special activities, prizes, surprises, raffles and more. For more info visit: shopapaloozafestival.com

NORTH EAST FLORIDA | V OL. 6

2024 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change

SESSION

DATE

TIME

FEATURED MATCHES

JAN 15 - MON

11:00 AM

Men's & Women's 1st Round

JAN 15 - MON

7:00 PM

Men's & Women's 1st Round

JAN 16 - TUE

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s 1st Round

JAN 16 - TUE

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s 1st Round

JAN 17 - WED

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s 2nd Round

JAN 17 - WED

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s 2nd Round

JAN 18 -THU

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s 2nd Round

JAN 18 -THU

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s 2nd Round

JAN 19 - FRI

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s 3rd Round

JAN 19 - FRI

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s 3rd Round

JAN 20 - SAT

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s 3rd Round

JAN 20 - SAT

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s 3rd Round

JAN 21 - SUN

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s 4th Round

JAN 21 - SUN

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s 4th Round

JAN 22 - MON

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s 4th Round

JAN 22 - MON

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s 4th Round

JAN 23 - TUE

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s Quarterfinals

JAN 23 - TUE

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s Quarterfinals

JAN 24 - WED

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s Quarterfinals

JAN 24 - WED

7:30 PM

Men’s & Women’s Quarterfinals

JAN 25 - THU

11:00 AM

Women’s Semifinals

JAN 25 - THU

7:30 PM

Men’s Semifinal

JAN 26 - FRI

3:00 PM

Mixed Doubles Semi & Women’s Doubles Final & Men’s Singles Semifinal

JAN 27 - SAT

7:30 PM

Women’s Singles Final & Men’s Doubles Final

JAN 28 - SUN

7:30 PM

Mixed Doubles Final & Men’s Singles Final

N O R T H E A S T F L O R I D A | V O L . 6

2024 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change

DATE

PLAY START

SESSION

MAY 26 - SUN

12:00 PM

1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

MAY 27 - MON

12:00 PM

1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

MAY 27 - MON

8:15 PM

1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

MAY 28 - TUE

12:00 PM

1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

MAY 28 - TUE

8:15 PM

1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

MAY 29 - WED

12:00 PM

2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

MAY 29 - WED

8:15 PM

2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

MAY 30 - THU

12:00 PM

2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

MAY 30 - THU

8:15 PM

2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

MAY 31 - FRI

12:00 PM

3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

MAY 31 - FRI

8:15 PM

3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

JUN 01 - SAT

12:00 PM

3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

JUN 01 - SAT

8:15 PM

3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

JUN 02 - SUN

12:00 PM

4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

JUN 02 - SUN

8:15 PM

4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

JUN 03 - MON

12:00 PM

4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

JUN 03 - MON

8:15 PM

4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single

JUN 04 - TUE

12:00 PM

1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles

JUN 04 - TUE

8:15 PM

1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles

JUN 05 - WED

12:00 PM

1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles

JUN 05 - WED

8:15 PM

1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles

JUN 06 - THU

12:00 PM

1/2 Finals Singles Ladies’

JUN 07 - FRI

12:00 PM

1/2 Final Gentlemen’s Single

JUN 07 - FRI

3:30 PM

1/2 Final Gentlemen’s Single

JUN 08 - SAT

3:00 PM

Final Women’s Single

JUN 09 - SUN

3:00 PM

Final Gentlemen’s Single

NORTH EAST FLORIDA | V OL. 6

2024 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change

DATE

PLAY START

SESSION

JULY 1 - MON

11:00 AM

Men's & Ladies' 1nd Round

JULY 2 - TUE

11:00 AM

Men's & Ladies' 1nd Round

JULY 3 - WED

11:00 AM

Men's & Ladies' 2nd Round

JULY 4 - THUR

11:00 AM

Men's & Ladies' 2nd Round

JULY 5 - FRI

11:00 AM

Men's & Ladies' 3rd Round

JULY 6 - SAT

11:00 AM

Men's & Ladies' 3rd Round

JULY 7 - SUN

11:00 AM

Men's & Ladies' 4th Round

JULY 8 - MON

11:00 AM

Men's & Ladies' 4th Round

JULY 9 - TUE

11:00 AM

Men's Singles Quarterfinals & Ladies’ Singles Quarterfinals

JULY 1- WED

11:00 AM

Men's Singles Quarterfinals & Ladies’ Singles Quarterfinals

JULY 11 - THU

1:00 PM

Ladies' Singles Semifinals & Mixed Doubles Final

JULY 12 - FRI

1:00 PM

Men's Singles Semifinals

JULY 13 - SAT

2:00 PM

Ladies' Singles Final & Men's Doubles Final

JULY 14 - SUN

2:00 PM

Men's Singles Final & Ladies’ Doubles Final

N O R T H E A S T F L O R I D A | V O L . 6

2024 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change ** Start Times Listed in EST

SESSION

DATE

SCHEDULE

PLAY START

MATCHES

AUG 26 - MON

Day

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s 1st Round

AUG 26 - MON

Night

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s 1st Round

AUG 27 - TUE

Day

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s 1st Round

AUG 27 - TUE

Night

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s 1st Round

AUG 28 - WED

Day

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s 2nd Round

AUG 28 - WED

Night

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s 2nd Round

AUG 29 - THU

Day

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s 2nd Round

AUG 29 - THU

Night

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s 2nd Round

AUG 30 - FRI

Day

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s 3rd Round

AUG 30 - FRI

Night

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s 3rd Round

AUG 31 - SAT

Day

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s 3rd Round

AUG 31 - SAT

Night

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s 3rd Round

SEP 1 - SUN

Day

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s Round of 16

SEP 1 - SUN

Night

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s Round of 16

SEP 2 - MON

Day

11:00 AM

Men’s & Women’s Round of 16

SEP 2 - MON

Night

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s Round of 16

SEP 3 - TUE

Day

12:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s Quarterfinals

SEP 3 - TUE

Night

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s Quarterfinals

SEP 4 - WED

Day

12:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s Quarterfinals

SEP 4 - WED

Night

7:00 PM

Men’s & Women’s Quarterfinals

SEP 5 - THU

Day

12:00 PM

Women’s Semifinals

SEP 6 - FRI

Day

12:00 PM

Men’s Doubles Final or Mixed Doubles Final & Men’s Semifinal 1

SEP 6 - FRI

Night

7:00 PM

Men’s Semifinal 2

SEP 6 - SAT

Day

12:00pm

Mixed Doubles Final or Men’s Doubles Final & Women’s Final

NORTH EAST FLORIDA | V OL. 6

HEALTH & FOOD Eating healthy and having a holistic

A popular sugar alternative is dates

approach to wellness focuses on mind,

which are very sweet and have been

body and soul. Foods that enhance

used for thousands of years. They are

energy, heart health, improve sleep and

high in nutrients, antioxidants and

increase muscle strength are growing

fiber. Some say they are good for brain

in popularity. High protein, low calorie,

health as well as digestion. Eaten whole

and low carbohydrate meals are the

or used in baked treats, they provide all

way to go. The movement towards

the sweetness needed.

plant-based

items

for

health

and

environmental reasons is here to stay.

To lose weight or simply to eat a little bit healthier, there are several different

Sugar intake is a concern for many.

approaches you can take.

N O R T H E A S T F L O R I D A | V O L . 6

The Whole Food Diet is probably the

The PALEO Diet is based on foods

most recommended diet. It is about

eaten in the Paleolithic period of

avoiding or limiting processed foods,

hunter gatherer societies thousands

preservatives or artificial ingredients

of years ago, before farming.

while sticking to lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, fish, shellfish and eggs. Limiting meat is a part of this diet as well. Not only

The Vegetarian Diet is made up of

is this diet healthy for you, but it is

plant-based

healthy for the planet as processed

fruits

foods require more resources such as

legumes and nuts. No meat or dairy

water and energy, thus creating more

products including eggs and other

pollution.

milk products are consumed. There

and

foods

which

include

vegetables,

grains,

is a trend to eat more fruits and vegetables and new products are continually coming to the market. The KETO Diet is a low carbohydrate,

Non-dairy

high fat diet that helps burn fat

oat, soy and almond are popular

for energy rather than carbs, thus

replacements for milk. New plant-

triggering weight loss. According to

based pasta alternatives like chickpea

Healthline, the foods to eat on this

or zucchini pasta help us eat more

diet are: meat, fatty fish,eggs, butter

vegetables and additional options are

and cream, cheese, nuts and seeds,

continually being introduced.

olive or avocado oil, avocados, and low carb vegetables and condiments.

milk

alternatives

NORTH EAST FLORIDA | V OL. 6

Wonderful

TRAIN EXPERIENCES If you haven’t traveled by train, you might like to try it. There are so many fantastic train trips available across the world. They offer opportunities not available any other way. There’s never the hassle of driving and missing the beautiful and scenic countryside. They are eco-friendly,

comfortable, relaxing and also offer refreshments. Trains start and end their journeys in cities and will transport you through diverse and incredible landscapes. Here are a few amazing train trip options:

N O R T H E A S T F L O R I D A | V O L . 6

JACOBITE TRAIN

BERNINA EXPRESS

If you are traveling in Scotland, be sure to check out the Jacobite. This journey is often described as the greatest rail journey in the world. It takes you 84 miles in total from Fort Williams in the highlands of Scotland to the most westerly stop in Arisaig. It passes by lakes and rivers including Lake Nevis, the deepest in Europe and through charming villages. There is a stop in Glenfinnan which was made famous as the site of the Harry Potter films. Then it is on to Mallaig which was founded in 1840 and is now a busy fishing port. It is a great spot for a walk or some shopping and dining. Try the fish and chips! Then take the return trip or consider taking the ferry to Skye and the Small Isles.

In Switzerland, be sure to check out the Bernina Express which is a 90 mile journey from Tirano in northern Italy to Chur in southeastern Switzerland. Highlights include unparalleled panoramic views of the steep peaks of the Swiss Alps, charming villages and shimmering lakes. With 55 tunnels through the mountains and numerous bridges and viaducts, the vistas are stunning. Chur is the oldest city in Switzerland and the old town is actually car-free. The train has earned UNESCO World Heritage Designation due to its architectural features and long history.

NORTH EAST FLORIDA | V OL. 6

SKAGWAY RAILROAD

RAILROAD MUSEUM

In Alaska, don’t miss the Bennett Lake Scenic Journey. A trip through history that began with the gold rush of 1898 when men sought routes to the Klondike and the White Pass. It began in Skagway and continued to British Columbia and the Yukon Territory. The train climbs from sea level to 3,00ft - a true marvel of engineering. Travel in a vintage train from Skagway to Carcass in the Yukon Territory. See snow capped peaks, forests, sparkling lakes, and amazing waterfalls. Visit Bennett Station and the White Pass Museum. You can do a walk through an old gold rush town. Then ride through remote sections of the lake that are otherwise only available by hiking the Chilkoot Trail.

In Parrish, Florida, visit the Museum and see the historic trains of the old South. Or take the 6-mile ride on an early 1900s train from Parrish to Willow to see a rail collection and exhibition. Also they host special train events including a train robbery experience.

RECOMMENDED SERVICE DIRECTORY

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