Issuu

ONLY IN FLORIDA: Strange but true stories from across the Sunshine State

2026's

BVets,EBoaSrdT ing, Treats & More!

plus:

RISING SUNS

NEW FACES OF FIRST COAST JAPANESE RESTAURANTS

FIRST COAST SCHOOLS GUIDE

ANNUAL CHARITABLE REGISTER

Jax nonprofit groups working for you & your neighbors

SIDE-BY-SIDE COMPARISONS OF THE REGION'S BEST

COAST IS CLEAR

GOLF, DELISH EATS, SURF & SAND AT HAMMOCK BEACH

PETS, PETS, PETS Dogs, Cats, Ferrets... we love them all

CONTENTS // VOLUME 42 ISSUE 6

Features 49

First Coast Private & Public Schools SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

The region’s private and public school landscape is rapidly expanding, enrolling more students than ever before. Finding the right one for your child can be a challenge. Here is a great place to start your search.

110

Best in Pets 2026 From dog parks to emergency veterinary services, we highlight the First Coast’s leading people, businesses and places that make our region such a great place for our beloved animals.

Jacksonville Magazine's Annual Charitable Register Shining a light on more than two dozen local nonprofit groups, the fundraisers they host, the needs they meet and how you can get involved.

96 More Than Meets the Eye

Though very traditional in many ways, the interior of one Ponte Vedra residence sneaks in a surprise or two.

Departments

Publisher’s Letter

Connect With Us

Reader Services

Jax Files

Chew on This

Then & Now

Numbers Game

26 30 32

Perspective

102

Home Design Quarterly

106

Hot Seats

122

Only in Florida

Food & Drink News

Bar None

What's Selling & for How Much

Rescue Me

Serene spaces, animal instincts, sticky situations and fallling in love

Essential Jax Eateries, Side Dishes, Fork on the Road and this month's featured recipe

Strange But True Stories From the Sunshine State

Escapes Coast is Clear

Names & Faces People You Should Know

Life Help Wanted

ONLY IN FLORIDA: Strange but true stories from across the Sunshine State

2026's

T BES Vets, Boarding, Treats & More!

plus:

RISING SUNS

NEW FACES OF FIRST COAST JAPANESE RESTAURANTS

FIRST COAST SCHOOLS GUIDE

ANNUAL CHARITABLE REGISTER

Jax nonprofit groups working for you & your neighbors

SIDE-BY-SIDE COMPARISONS OF THE REGION'S BEST

COAST IS CLEAR

6 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

GOLF, DELISH EATS, SURF & SAND AT HAMMOCK BEACH

Family

To-Do List

Seen

Hog Wild

Local Happenings

PETS, PETS, PETS Dogs, Cats, Ferrets... we love them all

Partygoers Smile for Our Cameras

ABOUT THE COVER: Boogar, a Husky-LabradorBorder Collie Mix Photo by AZ Photo Jax

Publisher’s Note

“J

ust once in my life, I’d like to be as utterly relaxed and comfortable as this cat.” These were my thoughts one morning a few months ago, as I peered through the glass of my front door and onto the porch. This is Patches. Don’t worry, she’s fine. Just fast asleep and oblivious to the world around her on this sunny Saturday. I do wish I could have asked her what happened the night prior, specifically what would have caused such complete exhaustion. It’s probably a great story to share, were she able to speak.

I have to admit, I did think the worst when I first caught a glimpse of her stretched out on the carpet. In my head, I briefly pictured a miniature crime scene, police tape outlining her little body. “Should we dust for fingerprints?” and “Anybody find a suspicious ball of yarn, squeaky toy or cat nip in the vicinity?” my imaginary investigators asked. Thankfully, there was no

8 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

need for such concern or an investigation. Upon cracking open the front door, Patches lazily rolled over to face me, stretched a bit more, and, with great care and much deliberation, stood up on all fours and stepped forward to greet me and the day. “You okay, little girl?” I asked while scratching the top of her head. She purred and rubbed her body against my legs, clear signals that all was good. And, after consuming the better part of a bowl of food, she was ready to go about her usual daily routine. Besides sleeping on the porch, exactly what that is, I have little idea. Patches and her brother arrived unexpectedly at our front door about a year ago. Already caring for a small pride inside the home, looking after an additional pair outside was not something I was eager to undertake. Oh, and their mother showed up later that same day. Apparently, word had spread that the residents of this particular

house were suckers for cute kittens and wayward feral cats. Truth be told, we kind of are. So, we soon found ourselves with a new trio of feline friends to feed. All three have been treated to visits to EveryPet, formerly known as First Coast No More Homeless Pets, to ensure they don’t continue their family trees with new offspring. Patches greets me in the front yard most afternoons as I arrive home from work. Just like dogs, both she and her brother Frankie come running when I whistle for them, my signal that dinner is served. Though not originally part of our family’s plan, they have become just that—part of the family. u

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FIELD OF DREAMS STADIUM OF THE FUTURE STEADILY RISING

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PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Joseph White CREATIVE DIRECTOR Amy Klinedinst SALES DIRECTOR Jessica Lindsay ACCOUNTING/OFFICE MANAGER Wendy Castro ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Jared Alexander HISTORY EDITOR Tim Gilmore STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Morgan Calenberg CONTRIBUTING WRITERS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Fabrizio Gowdy, Jeffrey Spear SUBSCRIPTION REQUESTS/INQUIRIES circulation@jacksonvillemag.com. JACKSONVILLE (ISSN 1070-5163), (USPS 749870), Volume 42 Issue 6. Published eight times per year with three supplements annually for $19.90 per year by White Publishing Co., 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL 32204. All editorial contents ©2026 by White Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Periodical postage paid at Jacksonville, FL. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to JACKSONVILLE, 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL 32204. PRINTED IN JACKSONVILLE.

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JAX FILES “We were walking out to the ocean following a family dinner at a restaurant at Beaches Town Center one night. The neighborhood was completely alive… people coming and going to the beach, families eating ice cream cones, young couples walking into Pete’s Bar, restaurants packed with diners. It struck me how peaceful and timeless the dunes were, just steps away from the bustle of Atlantic Boulevard and First Street.” — Charlotte Wells

CALLING ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS: Do you have an image of Northeast Florida you’d like to share with our readers? Submit your photo and the story behind it to mail@ jacksonvillemag.com for the opportunity to be featured on this page.

14 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

JAX FILES

Small Talk

Newsworthy Nuggets from Across Northeast Florida to Ponder on This Month J A new study utilizing data from FEMA’s National Risk Index has rated 443 U.S. counties for moderate to high hurricane risk. Not surprisingly, Florida counties take 3 of the top 5 spots, plus 36 of the 100 most vulnerable nationwide. Topping the list for most at risk is Lee County (Cape Coral/Fort Myers). Sixty-five Florida counties are considered “relatively moderate” to “very high” risk of hurricanes, according to FEMA. Baker and Union counties are the only two left off the list, earning “relatively low” risk. Locally, Duval comes in at #77, St. Johns is #158, and Clay is #259. J According to Money Magazine’s 2026 Best Colleges in America list, Florida State University has been named one of the nation’s top institutions of higher learning. FSU received 4.5 stars on Money’s 5-star scale for the fourth consecutive year. The publication evaluates colleges

based on tangible outcomes such as graduation rates, cost of attendance, financial aid, student debt and alumni salaries. The high rating owes significantly to the school’s graduation rate and estimated cost of a degree, which is substantially lower than the national average. J Women’s basketball has made many headlines of late. It will do so right here in the River City, with the inaugural Women’s Jacksonville Classic set to tip off November 22-25 at FSCJ South Campus. The three-day event features several nationally ranked teams from universities such as Arizona, Montana State, Oklahoma, Oregon State, Virginia and Vanderbilt battling it out on the hardwoods. Tournament passes start at $138 for all three days. J Paid parking has come to the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. Starting September 1,

guests parking in one of the museum’s three lots must now utilize the new ParkMobile app. Members can park for free, with the use of a rear-view mirror tag they will need to pick up at the front desk. During the week rates range from about $1 to $3 per hour. Saturdays have a $10 flat rate for the day. J Tickets for this season’s two-week run of Hamilton went on sale in mid-August. Presented by FSCJ Artist Series, the musical takes the stage at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts December 1-13. For those who haven’t seen it (yes, there are a few still out there), the story follows the rise of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton as he fights for honor, love and legacy—doing so with lots of hip-hop, rapping and dancing along the way. Of course, by the time you read this, tickets may have already sold out. u

Waterfront & Center The city’s Downtown riverfront is experiencing much change, particularly increased public access, the likes of which we haven’t seen in decades. Work continues on the reimagined park that sits on the site of the old Jacksonville Landing and private waterfront development continues on both sides of the St. Johns. High on the roster of City upgrades is the revitalization of Metropolitan Park. Still in something of a conceptual phase, proposed plans include a series of elevated boardwalks, a shaded plaza that can be used for gameday tailgating, splash fountains and kids play areas, a redesigned performance lawn, and spaces that are kept in more natural condition with native trees, bushes and grasses. Presently, plans call for ground being broken in early 2027. u 16 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

LET'S EAT

CHEW ON THIS WHAT’S NEW AND NOTEWORTHY IN LOCAL FOOD AND DRINK a chef-driven counter experience favoring sashimi, temaki sushi and Japanese libations. An opening date is expected before the end of the year. Service will include lunch and dinner, and reportedly breakfast later down the road.

Surfcaster

Completing a $40 million property-wide renovation this summer, the Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa debuted a few renovated dining options. Among them is Nonna Mia, formerly the Verandah, a coastal Italian restaurant inspired by both Southern and Italian seaside traditions. Oceanside has been reborn as Surfcaster, an oceanfront eatery pairing seafood-forward cuisine with a fittingly coastal atmosphere.

 Restaurateur Nichole Brown recently unveiled Petronita’s on N. Market Street in Springfield, bringing Jax chef Michael Ray to run the kitchen. Guests can enjoy Latin and Southern-inspired dishes such as shrimp and gouda grits, roasted duck leg with saffron risotto, and seared filet mignon atop creamy parsnip purée with roasted broccolini and pomegranate chimichurri. Serving dinner Wednesday through Sunday, brunch on the weekends.  A select menu of Fan First Favorites has been introduced at EverBank Stadium for Jaguars games. Hot dogs, popcorn, pretzels, nachos, candy, water and 12 oz. domestic beers are offered for $5 at four Stadium Classics concession stands for the Jags' six 2026 season home games. For others looking to save, outside food can be

18 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

 Speaking of Downtown: Gateway Jax, developers of Vandeveer, a mixed-use residential building at the heart of a nine-block, nearly $1 billion project, announced the roster of ground-floor tenants including restaurants. Arriving later this fall are PopUp Bagels and Go Greek Yogurt, as well as local names Bar Citra, serving coffees, pastries, seasonal plates and natural wines, and Buchner’s Biegarten, offering German beers and small plates out of a vintage-inspired Citroen truck.

 In the late 1980s and ‘90s, Fat brought into Tuesday’s frozen Nichole Brown, the stadium, cocktails were top Owner, Petronita's provided it is nighttime draws to the unwrapped and Jacksonville Landing. They placed in a one-gallon are returning to town with a clear plastic bag. lounge/restaurant combo Fat Tuesday Kitchen and Bar set  Mayday Handcrafted Ice for a pair of Park Street spaces Cream has partnered with the in 5 Points. Reportedly, menu Sing Out Loud Festival to create items will include burgers, tacos, a limited-edition flavor inspired wings and nachos, as well as by the natural beauty and spirit late-night bites in the adjacent of St. Augustine. Spoonbill “Social Lounge.” Guava Cheesecake is a bright and creamy guava-lime ice The cream with cookie crumbles Vandeveer mixed in. It’s available at Mayday’s five St. Johns County locations throughout September.  After nine years operating on W. Forsyth Street, Bellwether closed in March of 2026. Recently, it was announced Pearl Hospitality Group will reimagine the space as the Temaki Room,

Shuck Yeah! I ♥ Estuaries

A New Fundraiser, Shuck Yeah! I ♥ Estuaries, takes place September 18, 6-9 PM, at the GTM Research Reserve in Ponte Vedra Beach. Hosted by Friends of GTM, the evening feast will include oysters aplenty, as well as a Low Country boil, beer, wine and live music by Sea Level. Tickets, $125$175, benefit the reserve’s conservation, research and environmental education. Sunset views over the estuary are included for free.

New to Riverside Avenue near Downtown is Makai Poke & Musubi, the city’s only restaurant dedicated to traditional Hawaiian poke bowls ($16-$18) and musubi ($4-$5), an iconic island handheld made with combinations of rice, Spam, egg, tuna and nori. Poke bowls come with choice of Ahi tuna, salmon, Salt, Ritz-Carlton pickled ginger, scallions, and spicy mayo, with sides of seaweed salad and macaroni salad for an extra $2.50. u

THEN & NOW

Bar None FEW, IF ANY, TAVERNS POSSES THE SORTED AND COLORFUL LEGACY OF THE LITTLE BROWN JUG BY TIM GILMORE

Cenia Juanita Eidson in a palmetto thicket on the Westside. Now Lucky was out on $10,000 bond, pending an appeal to the Florida Supreme Court. First he started a knife fight at the Edison Drive Inn, down by the railroad tracks. When the police arrived, he’d migrated two and a half blocks west down Edison to the Little Brown Jug. An officer picked McDaniel up by the back of his pants and carried him out of the bar like, McDaniel later complained, “I was some desperate criminal.” Patrolman R.T. Matthew said, “He told us there wouldn’t be a policeman left in town if we’d turn him loose for two minutes. He had crowds of people blocking both Edison and Stockton.” In 1939, the Glenn Miller Orchestra had recorded “Little Brown Jug,” a tune written in 1869 that became a favorite during Prohibition. After the 1954 Jimmy Stewart movie The Glenn Miller Story, Little Brown Jug seemed the perfect name for a new bar. Bonnie loved those Sundays in the back of the bar. The front door stood beside the drivethrough window beside the “very narrow halfmoon drive.” They’d go through a series of doors and storage rooms to the office. Her grandfather bought her sugar cane from the open market on the corner across Stockton. It was just after Valentine’s Day in 1958 that someone chopped a hole in the roof with an axe in the hours between closing and morning, dropped down into the tavern and

onnie Wakeman was eight years old when her grandfather first took her to the bars on Sundays. By law, the Sabbath was dry in the 1950s, so Marion Linwood Patterson took his granddaughter first to the Pony, then to the Little Brown Jug, on Sunday afternoons. While he straightened up in the back offices, checking supply, verifying accounts, Bonnie played bartender. “He was a little bantam rooster,” she says, “a James Cagney type. He only had a sixth grade education, but he could do anything. He was the best grandfather in the world. More like a father. He’d wanted a son. I was as close as he was gonna get.” In their wedding photo (above), Linwood and Jessie clown like screwball comics from the follies. Linwood bends forward, knees out, elbows drawn in on his waist and hands open outward, palms up. Jessie poses with

her knees and toes pointed inward, her arms blurred in motion in front of her big smile. They look like a Vaudeville duo. The Little Brown Jug was most famous for the place it was not, for the Lynyrd Skynyrd song that just needed a rhyme, and for a former World Series pitcher, down on his luck, who tended bar there. For half a century, men from the railroad shops met at the Jug after work and for half a century, the Jug got robbed. Bonnie’s grandfather always carried a derringer. She knew he’d been robbed, though she didn’t know the details. “Convicted Slayer of Jax Beauty Jailed in Wake of Knife-Play in Local Tavern,” said the Jacksonville Journal headline just before Halloween, 1955. Back in ’54, Lucky McDaniel, “an ex-sailor” with a “Born to Raise Hell” tattoo on his arm, had hidden the body of 19-year-old Continued on page 22

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9230 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32225 (904) 726-0808 jacksonvillefurnituremart.com

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THEN & NOW robbed it. One Friday night in mid-July, John Maddox and William Terry finished arm wrestling; then Maddox popped Terry in the eye and Terry shot Maddox in the shoulder. Patterson sold the Little Brown Jug in 1966, but first Bonnie turned 16 and her grandfather bought her a new Pontiac GTO right off the downtown showroom floor. It seemed everybody at Robert E. Lee High School used their fake IDs in the Jug drive-through. Sometimes Linwood took Bonnie’s car keys after the water content in the vodka bottles behind the old mahogany bar increased enough to be noticeable. She always did throw the best parties. “I was cuttin’ the rug / Down at a place called The Jug / With a girl named Linda Lou / When in walked a man / With a gun in his hand / And he was lookin’ for you know who.” That was the bar fight that Lynyrd Skynyrd singer Ronnie Van Zant almost got himself into in a Jacksonville redneck bar. For decades after the song came out in 1973, fans of the band sought out the Jug, took pictures and posted them on discussion boards and blogs. Unfortunately for Skynyrd fans, the Little Brown Jug was the wrong bar. Whatever transpired happened at a place called The West. The song needed a rhyme. Ronnie wasn’t giving it a rest or his best, or passing some test, at the “West.” He was “cuttin’ a rug” at “the Jug.”

Most nights in the ’80s, you could find Don Bessent (pictured page 20) working the bar at the Little Brown Jug. You could also find him on old baseball trading cards. In the summer of 1990, someone found him dead of alcohol poisoning, 59 years old, in the Wendy’s parking lot in Five Points. Bessent pitched four years with the Dodgers, first in Brooklyn, then in Los Angeles. He pitched two World Series, guiding the Dodgers to victory over the New York Yankees in 1955, but losing to the Yankees the next year. If he’d played for the Dodgers for 30 more days, he’d have been eligible for a pension. Friends said, “If someone brought up baseball and started pushing it, he’d just walk away.” Linwood and Jessie spent 58 years together. Linwood’s lack of an education made him try all that much harder to make Jessie happy. He died in 1977 of pancreatic and liver cancer. He’d wanted sons and taught Bonnie to fish and swim. “I liked trying to build things with his tools in the garage,” Bonnie recalls. “I didn’t care for dolls.” The day after Jessie’s mother caught Linwood kissing her daughter in the porch swing one spring night in 1919, Jessie and Linwood married. They left Tallahassee for their honeymoon to the big city where Linwood would start making beer in the bathtub. All you had to do, Linwood said, was work as hard as you could work. u

The Smithsonian, National Museum of the American Indian and Florida Humanities have collaborated on a new traveling exhibition which makes a First Coast stop this fall. Using photos, hands-on displays, artifacts and video, “Americans” explores how deeply intertwined American Indians are in the history, popular culture and identity of the U.S.—and have been since before the country began. Images of Native Americans are everywhere, from commercial products and high school mascots to classic Westerns and episode of Seinfeld. “This exhibition is not just an exploration of who the original inhabitants of these lands are, but how we as a nation have chosen to tell their stories, amid both promise and uncertainty,” says Nashid Madyun, executive director of Florida Humanities. “In a year in which we have been able to reflect on 250 years of American history, this exhibit asks visitors to look beyond those borders and understand the history of the American Indian as part of our shared history.” The exhibition travels to five Florida locations through the summer of 2027, including a stop at the Amelia Island Museum of History through October 10. u

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Just Write Writer, storyteller, and curator of the curious, Tim Gilmore, launches his newest and 26th book, Memphis Wood and the Sanctified Fecund, as part of the Mandarin Museum’s Third Thursday Series reading and book signing October 15, 6 PM. Jax Magazine readers will know Gilmore as the publication’s trusty history editor. “They called Memphis Wood everything from 'the first lady’ to ‘the high priestess’ of art. Her work evolved through Abstract Expressionism and the Studio Craft Movement to new heights of lyrical abstraction in fiber arts,” says Gilmore. “Born in tiny Dacula, Georgia in 1902, Memphis moved to Jacksonville, in her 20s to become one of the first public-school art teachers in Duval County. She exhibited art from Florida to New York and knew and worked with the internationally known potter Charlie Brown and architect Robert Broward. Among her most famous works is the 22-foot-tall magnum opus in Broward’s Unitarian Universalist Church of Jacksonville.” Based on dozens of interviews and hundreds of articles and reviews, Gilmore’s book tells the story of one of North Florida’s most enigmatic and influential artists. Copies of the book will be available for purchase at the event, with book signing before and after the presentation. u

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HOUSE HUNTING

NUMBER$ GAME WHAT’S BEEN SELLING LATELY IN NORTHEAST FLORIDA. AND FOR HOW MUCH. NEIGHBORHOOD

ADDRESS

SQ. FEET

SELLER

SALE PRICE

PRIOR SALE PRICE

DAYS ON MARKET

Ponte Vedra

120 Regents Pl

5012

Marsh Landing

3,194,840

3,800,000 (24)

342

San Marco

1108 Landon Ave

1442

KST Group

367,000

240,000 (21)

Jacksonville Beach

10 Quail Ln

2426

Compass Florida LLC

840,000

460,000 (18)

138

Orange Park

3109 Marrano Dr

1638

Stellar Non-member Office

345,000

254,200 (25)

Mandarin

11135 Scott Mill Rd

3327

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty

860,000

75,000 (94)

Riverside

3002 Riverside Ave

3677

One Sotheby’s International Realty 1,050,000

685,000 (20)

Atlantic Beach

365 8th St

6928

KST Group LLC

4,450,000

465,000 (15)

210

Ponte Vedra

140 Bermuda Ct

1803

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty

492,000

154,128 (12)

St. Johns

316 Talwood Trce

2825

Integrity Key Realty

590,000

395,000 (19)

180

San Marco

1052 Holly Ln

3975

Christies International Real Estate

1,950,000

625,000 (08)

Jacksonville Beach

430 Royal Tern Rd S

6732

Marsh Landing Realty

2,995,000

170,000 (99)

Orange Park

3857 Cardinal Oaks Cir

3117

Assist 2 Sell Buyers & Sellers Premier Realty

517,500

475,000 (06)

Mandarin

11430 Scott Mill Rd

1896

Florida Homes Realty & MTG

465,000

330,000 (26)

Neptune Beach

1501 Big Tree Rd

6005

Momentum Realty

1,645,000

1,525,780 (24)

Murray Hill

4818 Attleboro St

1363

Florida Life Realty and Investments

315,000

175,000 (26)

Riverside

2316 Dellwood Ave

1712

The Legends of Real Estate

365,000

284,900 (15)

Atlantic Beach

355 19th St

1849

Compass Florida

1,035,000

467,000 (20)

104

Springfield

4818 Attleboro St

2888

Keller Williams

497,000

272,500 (17)

116

Ortega

5135 Pirates Cove Rd

3108

Miller & Company Real Estate

1,655,000

1,150,000 (22)

Avondale

1345 Talbot Ave

2467

Root Realty

800,000

545,000 (21)

J “The data shows a market that is settling into a more sustainable rhythm. Inventory remains healthy, affordability has improved, and buyers have more opportunities than we’ve seen in several years,” says Kim Knapp, president of the Northeast Florida Association of Realtors, commenting on market conditions as summer came to a close. “Sellers who price their homes competitively and present them well are continuing to find success in this balanced market.” In July, the median price for single-family homes across the six-county region decreased by 3.2% to $405,000. There were 1,841 closed sales, a 16% decrease from June, with pending sales decreasing by nearly 32% at 1,263. “July’s market reflects a healthier balance for both buyers and sellers. Buyers have more choices, more time to make decisions, and greater flexibility than we’ve seen in recent years,” adds Knapp. By county, median sales numbers in July broke down as follows: In Duval, the price of single family homes was $335,000, a 4% decrease from June; In Clay, the median price fell by 1.4% to $360,000; and in St. Johns, single-family homes increased by nearly 2% to $589,030. u

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ESCAPES

Coast is Clear TRANQUILITY AND ACTIVITY AWAIT ALONG A STUNNING STRETCH OF UNSPOILED FLORIDA BEACH.

t’s been a Palm Coast fixture for more than 25 years now, and the Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa only seems to get better with age. The vacation haven provides most everything one could want in a Sunshine State getaway, one that’s made even better because it’s just a few miles south of St. Augustine and Jax. The oceanside property is expansive, with 275 guest rooms and suites, two golf courses (including the Jack Nicklaus-designed Ocean Course and The Conservatory, designed by Tom Watson, also a pretty good golfer) nine pools and a lazy river and water slide, full-service spa, fitness center, a beachy boutique and nine options for food and drink. Guests also have access to an acclaimed tennis and pickle ball center just a short drive away. For the kids, diversions are plentiful. For starters, the pool complex is a multi-level dream. Then there’s the grass putting course, an arcade, sand volleyball court, bikes for rent, and acres of soft Bermuda lawn just waiting for soccer balls, corn hole,

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frisbees and the like. Near the indoor pool are foosball and pingpong tables. At the beach, chairs, umbrellas and cabanas can be reserved for long afternoons enjoying the Atlantic and the cinnamon sands of this slice of Florida. While not “private,” there are times when the beach feels especially isolated and peaceful, particularly when compared to other resort hot spots. Delfino’s Italian Chophouse is a Wine Spectator award winner and one of the resort’s signature restaurants. As the name says, Italian flavors lace the menu, from clams swimming in white wine, butter, garlic and parsley, to 24 oz. grilled bone-in ribeye steaks served with charred broccolini and roasted potatoes. For meals overlooking the sand and surf, step over the Atlantic Grille. The oceanside setting is ideal for oysters, crab cakes, blackened mahimahi with Creole salsa, and cold water lobster tails dipped in drawn butter. In addition to the suites in the two Towers and the Lodge, vacation condos and multi-bedroom homes also are available.

There’s even one with eleven bedrooms. The variety of lodging options make Hammock Beach ideal for large family gatherings. There’s a Publix only minutes away, too, so stock up on food, drinks and sunscreen upon arrival and settle in for an extended stay, never having to pass through the gates again. At least once, pack a picnic, grab a blanket and find a spot on the lawn to savor the views and breeze as the sun set behind the resort towers and western horizon beyond. While there’s no need to wait for a special event to visit, the 4th annual Hammock Beach Food & Wine Classic takes place September 18-20. The weekend festivities feature international wine tastings, a Florida craft beer garden, 5K run, golf tournament and the Grand Tasting overlooking the ocean. u — Maggie

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

ESCAPES

Ship Shape Norwegian Cruise Line voyages sailing out of Jax have a new family friendly attraction on the itinerary. Great Tides Waterpark on Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas, officially opened to guests on September 4. The six-acre park is peppered with 19 waterslides, a lazy river, and the Caribbean’s only four-person body slide. Plus, there are three on-site food trucks serving dishes such as BBQ pork rubles, fried shrimp rolls and bubble waffle sundaes. Five-day Bahamas round-trip cruises from JaxPort start at $489 per person. Longer sails including a ten-day voyage with stops in Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic and the British Virgin Islands start at $999. u

SIMPLY AMAZE-ING Everyone is embracing pumpkin spice season these day, even one of western Georgia’s leading attractions. The fifth annual Pumpkins at Callaway returns to the rolling hills and forests and meandering streams at Callaway Resort & Gardens on select dates through November 1. Featuring both day and night experiences and shows, highlights of the 10-week special event include kids trick-or-treating, glow-in-the-dark mini-golf, an illuminated pumpkin trail, live music and pumpkin-inspired characters throughout the 2,500-acre property. Cason’s Corn Mazes returns with an all-new and confusing design and seasonal eats and drinks offered from a variety of vendors. Tickets range from $14 for kids to $18 for adults. u 28 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW

NAMES & FACES ^

Ladies and gentlemen, we’d like to present Na’Zir McFadden, the Jacksonville Symphony’s new Associate Conductor for the 2026/2027 season. In his role, he will conduct Pop Series and Coffee Series concerts. He’ll be the guy up front with the baton for “Stevie Wonder & More: The 70s & Beyond” October 2 and 3 at Jacoby Symphony Hall.

Jax photographer Ashley Woodson Bailey’s “What Remains,” a collection of stunning floral photographs is presented at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. “Flowers have long functioned as a visual language in art, symbolizing beauty, mortality, and transformation,” she says. And, just like flowers, the show won’t last forever, closing November 8.

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Taking first serve in this year’s Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital Florida Forum Speaker Series is tennis great Venus Williams, who comes to Jax October 12. Williams counts seven Grand Slam singles titles, five Wimbledon championships, and four Olympic gold medals in her trophy case. Her sister Serena was pretty good, too.

NBC’s competition reality series The Traitors: New Blood premieres September 17. Among those entering host Alan Cumming’s Scottish castle this season is Jax local Katie Fites. Will she survive a game based on treachery and deceit? You’ll have to tune in.

NA'ZIR PHOTO BY © ANDREJ GRILC; MARMOSETS PHOTO BY JESSIE STULL, SAAF; VENUS PHOTO BY LAURA METZLER PHOTOGRAPHY

Meet Hermione and Lochte, Geoffroy’s marmosets who made their public debut at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm in July. Native to lowland forests of Brazil, they grow to about 8 inches in length, plus 11 more in the tail. One-eyed Hermione, 17, is the more gregarious of the pair. Lochte, 14, prefers high perches with a view of his habitat.

LIFE

Help Wanted IT’S THE SMALL THINGS THAT OFTEN MEAN THE MOST TO SOMEONE BATTLING CANCER.

such as wigs and head covers, skin care, clothing and more. In addition, its website offers helpful tips and real-word solutions for those tackling cancer. A 2026 survey found that cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers all continue to report substantial unmet supportive care needs, especially around psychosocial support, practical assistance, and day-to-day life after diagnosis. In a nutshell, we're getting better at treating cancer. Yet, we’re still struggling to support people living with it. For example, ”Let me know if you need anything,” is the most common thing people say and the least likely to result in anything happening. It sounds generous, but it asks someone in treatment to identify a need, decide who to ask, and risk being told no. Most people won't do that, so the offer expires quietly and both sides think they tried. What works instead, says Millier, is a specific offer with a date attached. “'I'm bringing dinner Tuesday, is 6 okay?’ or ‘I can take the kids to the park this Saturday’ are easy to accept and easy to decline.” Also, while it's common for many friends and family to show up at diagnosis, far fewer are around after three months. “Support clusters hard around the first two weeks, when the patient is still absorbing the news and least able to use it,” she says. "By the time treatment is grinding, side effects have taken hold, the meal train has ended, the check-ins have thinned, and the person is more tired than they were at the start.”

Shannon Miller & Son

hannon Miller has experienced a life that includes ultimate highs and debilitating lows. She is a twotime Olympian and winner of seven Olympic medals. Thirty years ago she led USA Gymnastics’ “Magnificent Seven” to its first women’s team gold medal, securing gold for herself on the balance beam. She and her teammates were heralded as heroes, even being immortalized on the front of a Wheaties cereal box. No doubt, those triumphs must have seemed like ancient history when, in January 2011, she was diagnosed with a rare form of ovar-

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ian cancer. Now, 15 years cancer-free, Miller remains a vocal advocate for early detection, research and survivorship. Recently, she put action to her words and advocacy with the launch of Salto Health, a gift registry built for patients and families facing cancer. The idea behind the online service is that while most people want to care for friends and family members who are in treatment, the majority don’t really know how best to help. Sending flowers is great, as is baking a casserole. However, many real needs can go unmet. Salto Health is designed to let patients share exactly what they need, including items

People send flowers and food. However, fragrance and food are two things that can be especially challenging to the senses during chemotherapy. Eating too much is not really an issue for one battling cancer. “What's actually needed is far less obvious,” says Miller. “Port-friendly clothing that opens at the chest, scalp care and head covers during hair loss, nausea and hydration support, skin care for radiation burns, something soft for the ride home after surgery. These aren't things you'd know to buy unless you've been through it, and the patient rarely wants to explain them item by item.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILIANE HAKIM 2011

Miller, now a mother of two, recommends that supporters pick a later month and claim it. Being the person who shows up in week fourteen is worth more than being one of thirty in week one. In addition to waning interest—which is natural, as friends and family have lives of their own—too few looking to help think of true physical needs.

LIFE And don’t forget the caregiver. Very often, the spouse, the adult child, the friend running the household is exhausted, frightened, and receiving almost nothing. People ask them how the patient is doing and never ask how they are. Support flows to one person in a house where two or three are carrying it. “So, ask the caregiver a question that isn't about the patient. Send something to them directly. Remind them it’s important to take care of themselves, too,” says Miller. As in regular life, it can be the small things that mean the most. Everyday assistance and practical help can be overlooked because it feels too small A dog walked, a load of laundry. cleaning the kitchen, playdates for kids, sitting in the waiting room during an infusion so someone isn't alone–people skip these because they feel insufficient, so they wait for something more meaningful to do. Meanwhile, the small things pile up and go undone. “Directly offer the small thing,” Miller says. “It's usually the one that's needed.” u

MATCH PLAY Touting the popularity of pickleball is not breaking news. However, while the game is mostly promoted for its physical benefits in older adults, its greatest effect may be in the social connections it builds. According to the National Poll on Healthy Aging, 1 in 3 adults aged 50 to 80 reported feeling lonely or lacking companionship some of the time or often. Now known as a public health risk, loneliness is defined as the feeling that results from a perceived gap between a person’s desired social connections and their actual relationships. “Research has shown that playing pickleball strengthens older adults’ social connections and sense of community while reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation,” says A.C. Kim, an associate professor at FSU’s Department of Sport Management. “Part of this comes down to the court itself, which is considerably smaller than a tennis court and keeps players close enough to talk easily with partners and opponents throughout a match. This sets pickle ball apart from activities such as running or walking alone, which improves fitness but rarely bring people together in the same way.” u

If you are of a certain age, you may remember the toy, Barrel of Monkeys, a game where the goal is to link together plastic monkey shapes into a chain. It’s about as low-tech as a child’s play thing can be. That hook of an idea for fun has a new shape and name, specifically Duck-links. Created by Amanda Gipson, the idea for the game is pretty simple: families need more reasons to put down the phones and play together. “That idea became Duck-links, a hands-on, screen-free game designed to encourage fine motor skills, connection, and good old-fashioned family fun.” In August, Gipson’s Jax-based brand launched a crowdfunding campaign to fund the production of the next Duck-links chapter, the new Duck-links Anywhere Game Set ($30). Inside each kits are 21 colorful Duck-links, ten game cards, and an instruction and ideas manual. Kids can practice color recognition, sequencing, problem-solving, hand-eye coordination, and early learning skills while playing independently, with siblings, or with the whole family. “We’re hoping to turn a homegrown Jacksonville idea into a game that families across the country can eventually enjoy,” says Gipson u

Take A Bow!

“Being selected to perform at The Midwest Clinic is an extraordinary honor for our students and an opportunity to represent Douglas Anderson School of the Arts Symphony Orchestra and Jacksonville at one of the most significant gatherings in music education,” says Brian Griffin, co-director of the Orchestra. The student symphony will travel to Chicago for the 80th annual Midwest Clinic, December 16-18, representing their school and hometown before an international music education audience. “As the only U.S. high school full orchestra selected to perform this year, we are honored to share our students’ talent and hard work with the global instrumental music community,” add Ted Shistle, orchestra co-director. Bravo! u

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FAMILY

Congaree and Penn

Hog Wild A CITY SLICKER DRIVES DEEP INTO “ONLY IN FLORIDA” TERRITORY, PROMPTLY MAKING A FOOL OF HIMSELF. BY FABRIZIO GOWDY

here are times and places where venturing outside, exploring the wilderness, getting a little dirt under one’s nails can result in truly wild adventures for the whole family. A few miles south of Palatka, there’s a place that makes Daytona International Speedway look like Churchill Downs. For 19 years, Hog Waller Campground and ATV Resort has been a muddy and wonderful haven for thrill seekers and anyone wishing to indulge in a bona fide “only in Florida” experience. The privately owned park is home to 1,100 wooded acres of winding trails and mud pits. The only limit is what your vehicle can handle—and your nerve. Park landmarks include RPM Alley and Skeet Row, which is notoriously easy in which to get stuck. There’s also a designated swimming hole that is off-limits to vehicle traffic, though

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some regulars don’t mind taking a dip in some of the park’s other bodies of water too— Gator Hole, Tiger Hole and China Hole. Attendees are dressed in everything from long sleeves and long pants to bikinis. There’s no wrong choice so long as you wear something to which you aren’t attached.

Motorsport Rentals is based nearby and will gladly hook you up with a vehicle. Just call ahead of time for reservations. A camp store sells other essentials, and there’s an on-site parts store to keep your engine running. The park does not sell gas, so be sure to fuel up before you get there.

A $25-per-person admission fee—cash only, please—gives you full access to the entire park. Normal operating hours are 8 AM to 5 PM, rain or shine, seven days a week. Roughly once a month, Hog Waller hosts all-hours weekends and allows visitors to drive all through the night.

If you work up an appetite, the Hog Trough is the park restaurant, serving up fried gator tail, corn dogs, burgers, nachos, and the “Bubba Special,” with pulled pork with fries and cheese.

Seventy RV sites and eight very rustic cabins are available to accommodate nighttime daredevils. The RV spots run about $65 nightly, and cabins can be rented for $126 a night, and both include one-person park admission. Don’t have an ATV? No problem. Forrest’s

Thanksgiving is the busiest weekend of the year, though not because of the food. That’s when Hog Waller hosts its annual “Turkey Bog” mega truck race. There are also three of four beater car races a year, which are free to enter for contestants and offer a $500 cash prize for whichever old jalopy comes out on top. On the particular Saturday in August that I

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PHOTO BY RYAN KETTERMAN

FAMILY roll into Hog Waller, I meet Alanna Bonafide and Avery Counts in the camp store. Bonafide and her husband started coming to the park years ago to get away from the suburban sprawl of Spring Hill, and have since moved right next door and taken jobs at the park. “It started out as our getaway from work, our place to leave the world behind, and it’s become our sanctuary,” explains Alanna, who says she has grown accustomed to the sound of motors. “It’s kind of soothing.” After giving me the rundown of the property, they encourage me to get out and see the park for myself, offering me the keys to Alanna’s own UTV, which is parked behind the store. I’m hesitant, telling them I’ve never done anything like this, but they insist I’ll be fine. Moments later, I’m racing across an open dirt field and under a banner welcoming me to the “1,000 acre woods: wild and untamed Florida Badlands.” The UTV’s heavy-duty suspension makes for an exhilarating, bouncing joyride that causes me to audibly giggle to myself in the empty cab. My adventure lasts about seven minutes and 30 seconds. That’s approximately how long it takes me to severely underestimate the depth of a pond and plow directly into two-plus feet of standing water. Within seconds, dark, muddy water fills the cab almost up to my knees. I switch on four-wheel drive and try both accelerating and reversing, but to no avail. I cut the engine, which I later learn is also a big no-no. In my defense, my Toyota Prius and I have never found ourselves in several feet of water. I call Alanna, opening the conversation with the always-reassuring preface, “Please don’t kill me, but …” To my surprise, she cracks up when I explain my predicament. “Welcome to Hog Waller,” she tells me, laughing. I can hear an incredulous Avery asking her questions in the background. A few moments later, he comes roaring up to me, looking decidedly less amused than Alanna sounded on the phone. “You don’t drive into that!” Avery tells me. “That’s common sense, bubba.” I can’t argue with that, though to be fair, I did warn them that entrusting me with the UTV was a bad idea. When he informs me of the price tag of the vehicle I’ve just waterlogged, my stomach churns a bit. Avery unspools the winch built into the front of his own ride, and a few expletives later, we are on our way back. We pass several other park patrons looking on, including one man riding an ATV who tips his drink at me as if to say, “sorry, pal.” I feel quite dumb. Avery drops me off at the camp store, where I do my best to apologize profusely to Alanna. She is remarkably chill given the circumstances. “Did you at least have fun?” she asks. I didn’t just have fun, I tell her, I had a blast. Aside from wishing I hadn’t turned her poor UTV into an amphibious vehicle, my biggest regret is that my outing got cut short. I leave the park thinking that I would very much like to return to Hog Waller, even if I have to come back in disguise. u

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BETTER TO GIVE

“Every cord blood donation represents hope for a patient waiting for a lifesaving stem cell transplant,” says Luis Hernandez, director of Cellular Therapies for LifeSouth Community Blood Centers. “For mothers, it’s an extraordinary opportunity to give life twice, first by welcoming a new baby into the world and then by helping save the life of someone they may never meet” Umbilical cord blood, which is typically discarded after birth, is rich in blood-forming stem cells used in transplants to treat more than 80 life-threatening diseases and disorders, including leukemia, lymphoma and certain genetic, immune and metabolic disorders. More than 40,000 patients worldwide have received cord blood transplants since the first successful transplant was performed in 1988. Unlike bone marrow donation, cord blood donation is painless and takes place after the baby is delivered and the umbilical cord has been clamped and cut. The collection does not interfere with labor, delivery or the care of either the mother or the newborn. “As a maternal-fetal medicine physician, I spend a lot of time thinking about how we can improve outcomes not just for the pregnancy, but for the patients beyond the delivery room,” says UF Health physician Dr. Niamh Condon. “Families should know that donating cord blood is safe, does not affect the care of their baby and offers a simple way to make a life-changing difference for someone facing serious disease.” Expectant parents interested in donating should discuss cord blood donation with their healthcare provider before delivery and determine whether the delivery hospital participates in the LifeSouth Cord Blood Program. Among those in Northeast Florida that do include UF Health Jacksonville, HCA Florida North, and Baptist Medical Center South. u

What began 25 years ago at Wolfson Children’s Hospital has spread to multiple First Coast healthcare facilities and involved more than 150,000 patients and family members. Art with a Heart in Healthcare is a homegrown nonprofit organization with a mission of providing fine art experiences to patients and families in healthcare settings, offering meaningful connections beyond medical care that enhances the healing process. Led by the programs Artists in Residence, creative sessions with patients take place in various settings ranging from hospital rooms to group waiting spaces. The focus is never one’s artistic ability, but rather giving patients and families time to express themselves and reconnect with a sense of normalcy. To mark the organization’s quarter-century of creativity, the 25 Years of Art. Heart. Healing. gala takes place October 24 at WJCT Studios. u

94%

OF THE GRADUATES WILL ATTEND COLLEGES, UNIVERSITIES AND CONSERVATORIES

Jacksonville’s Only Performing Arts High School

Top 1-3%

WHERE ARTS AND CREATIVITY GROW

OF ARTS & ACADEMIC HIGH SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE

100%

OF ENROLLED SENIORS RECEIVE HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA 4 YEARS IN A ROW

$23 Million GEEK CHIC PHOTOGRAPHY

IN COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS OFFERED TO THE GRADUATING CLASS OF 2026 SENIORS

SAVE THE DATE

EXTRAVAGANZA:

Saturday, February 13, 2027

For more information about DA and auditions visit DA-arts.org or DouglasAndersonSOTA on Facebook 2445 San Diego Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32207 | Where Arts and Academics Meet Excellence

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THE TO-DO LIST

NORTHEAST FLORIDA’S ENTERTAINMENT & CULTURAL AGENDA

Jacksonville Jaguars The Jags play only six “home” games this season, with two others being played at the team’s second homes in England while the Stadium of the Future takes shape in Jax. The Patriots ride into town September 27, as do the Colts November 1 and the Titans November 29. Trevor, Trayvon, Travis and the boys have their work cut out for them if they hope to improve upon last year’s 13-win season. Duuuuval!

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SEPTEMBER EXHIBITION

Glitch: Architecture Undone

MOCA Jacksonville’s latest Project Atrium, Glitch: Architecture Undone by Ryan Rasmussen, brings together two interconnected structural systems inside the museum’s soaring atrium. A tower of extruded aluminum and acrylic intersects with raw wood, industrial piping, translucent panels, found materials and more, making it unclear whether the structure is assembling upward or collapsing downward. On display through February 14

Team Moms: Baseball

New reality series produced by Kim Kardashian follows a group of parents whose sons attend Legendary Prep Academy: a premier baseball training school in Arizona. While the kids compete on the field, the drama unfolds in the stands. Premieres September 24 on Paramount+.

EXHIBITION

Ansley Randall: Home for Now

Defined by bold colors and a dramatic sense of play, Randall’s work appears timeless yet immediate. Born in Jax and now based in London, she draws on the visual languages of mid-century design, abstraction, and contemporary muralism to create immersive environments that transform the spaces they inhabit. Her practice brings together the warmth of her Southern roots with the vibrant energy of the city she currently calls home. Opening September 4 at the Lightner Museum. MUSIC

Sing Out Loud Festival

Celebrating its tenth anniversary, this year’s festival features more than 160 acts taking to the stage at 17 venues throughout the Oldest City. Beyond the dozens of free music performances, festival programming includes the Music Business Panel discussion at Spinster Abbott’s on September 23, Sip Out Loud at Bin 39 on September 24, and the St. Augustine Record Fair September 27 at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. SPORT

Sporting Jax

The men’s team’s inaugural USL Championship season rolls on with home games versus Loudoun United FC September 25, 7:30 PM, and Louisville City FC October 4 and Birmingham Legion FC October 10, 5 PM, at Hodges Stadium on the UNF campus, $16$55. The women continue the second half of their Gainbridge Super League season with matches at UNF September 20, October 9, 16 and 31, and November 21.

COMEDY

DL + DL

Comedian DL Hughley and journalist Don Lemon present a two-man show that dives headfirst into hot topics of the day and dishes on the latest news, politics, entertainment, pop culture and what’s trending in social media September 25, 7 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $55-$120. MUSIC

Jacksonville Symphony

Guillaume Connesson’s Maslenitsa is the perfect opening for the symphony season, an electrifying burst of color and momentum inspired by Slavic Carnival celebrations, alive with glowing chorales, blazing brass and infectious energy. That spark gives way to the elegance of Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 22, performed by Van Cliburn medalist Evren Ozel, followed by the sweeping romance and drama of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, September 25 and 26, 7:30 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $52-$110. FILM

Heart of the Beast

After a harrowing plane crash, a Special Forces officer and his combat dog find themselves stranded deep in the Alaskan wilderness. Together, they are forced into a brutal fight for survival against the elements. Starring Brad Pitt and Uber, who plays the combat dog Odin. Opening in theaters September 25.

DISCUSSION

Saving Mayport Lighthouse

Did you know the 167-year-old St. Johns River Lighthouse is one of four structures added to the Jacksonville Historical Center’s 2026 List of Endangered Historic Properties? You do now. As part of its Speaker Series, the Center hosts a gathering to learn about the Mayport Lighthouse Association’s plans to save the tower by relocating it to the Mayport Village waterfront, where it can be restored and open to the public, September 24, 5:30 PM, at the Jax History Center, $10 non-members.

OCTOBER MUSIC

Sugarland

Since the band’s inception in 2002, Sugarland has sold nearly 10 million albums, achieving an astounding seven number 1 singles and nearly 2 billion streams. Listen for hits “All I Want to Do” and “Stuck Like Glue” October 1, 6:30 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $65-$190. Continued on page 44

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THE TO-DO LIST

SOCIAL CALENDAR

Seen

More than 800 people turned out July 11 and 12 to experience an artistic first for Downtown Jax. Twenty-five artists, most of them hailing from the 904, joined brushes and paint to create Duuuval Walls, a first-of-its-kind mural jam that transformed 600 feet of Union Terminal Warehouse wall into a public art gallery along the Emerald Trail. “Duuuval Walls was never just about paint on a wall,” says the appropriately named Kady Yellow, curator of the project and vice president of Downtown Vision Inc. “We wanted to show what’s possible when a city invests in its own artists by giving them the hospitality, resources and creative freedom to do their best work.” u

COMING SOON: • Lace up your best running shoes. The ninth annual Dreams Come True 5K gets moving Saturday, September 19, on the UNF campus. There’s also the one-mile Dash for Dreams and DreamFest, a family celebration just beyond the finish line. Participants are asked to come in full superhero mode—meaning capes, masks and other super gear. $30-$40 registration fee. • Fore! The 27th annual BK Boosters Golf Tournament tees off at 10 AM on Monday, October 26, at St. Johns Golf and Country Club. The fundraising tourney, $1,500 per foursome, features on-course contests, food and drinks, and a raffle, and helps provide funding for Bishop Kenny High School’s academics, athletic, arts and campus ministry programs.

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The decks of the USS Orleck played host to the sixth annual Ship Fest White Party the evening of August 1. Guests were asked to dress in all white outfits (but no high heels please, this is a retired US Navy destroyer after all) as they enjoyed music from three stages, including one with dueling DJs. Manifest Distilling poured libations all night and more than a few street tacos were consumed along the historic vessel’s Downtown pier. u

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THE TO-DO LIST PM, Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $43-$92.

Tedeschi Trucks Band

SPORT

Donna 5K at TPC Sawgrass

Scores of runners descend upon the rolling grounds of TPC Sawgrass on October 10 as the DONNA Fearless Series trots into Ponte Vedra during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Since its inception in 2008, DONNA race events have become a Northeast Florida tradition, bringing together breast cancer patients, survivors, families, supporters and athletes from across the country. 8:30 AM start, $35-$45. FILM

Sense and Sensibility THEATER

MUSIC

Meet Me in St. Louis

Tedeschi Trucks Band

Step into the magic of the beloved MGM classic that made Judy Garland a Hollywood icon. Featuring timeless favorites like “Skip to My Lou,” “The Trolley Song,” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” the heartwarming musical comes alive with a live orchestra, unforgettable characters, romance and laughter. Staged October 1 through November 8 at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining, $73-$84. COMPETITION

Puttin’ on the Ritz

Hosted by Akia Uwanda and Ladarrius Rozier, and featuring a DJ and some of Jax’s hottest talent, the evening is patterned after the famed Apollo Theater Amateur Night, being staged October 2, 7:30 PM, at the Ritz Theatre, $10. FILM

Coraline in Concert

Directed by visionary filmmaker Henry Selick, Coraline comes to life like never before on a towering screen, with the music adding even deeper magic and mystery to this stop-motion classic October 3, 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $59-$105. MUSIC

Celtic Thunder

For fall of 2026, the quartet will complete its 18th tour of North America. Over the years, Celtic Thunder has been home to some of the finest vocalists in the world, and An Intimate Evening with Celtic Thunder will see Emmet, Damian, Neil and Ronan perform some of vocal group’s greatest songs and welcome some old friends along the way. Taking the local stage October 3, 8 PM, at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, $86-$148. DANCE

Dracula

The Florida Ballet returns to the stage for its third consecutive year with Roberto Forleo’s captivating rendition of Dracula, a fusion of gothic elegance and classical ballet, taking place October 8, 7 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $53-$95.

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Led by husband and wife, guitarist Derek Trucks and singer/guitarist Susan Tedeschi, “two of the best roots rock musicians of their generation,” according to NPR, the locally based band is known for its world-class musicianship and contemporary blend of a wide range of American musical influences that define their extensive catalog. Playing two shows October 9 and 10, 6 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $59-195. MUSIC

Phish

Trey Anastasio (guitar, vocals), Jon Fishman (drums, vocals), Mike Gordon (bass, vocals), and Page McConnell (keyboards, vocals) have earned one of music's most dedicated fan communities for its blend of idiosyncratic songcraft, extended improvisation, and immersive live performances, all fusing a variety of genres into their own freewheeling sound and vision. They jam October 9, 7 PM, VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $96. MUSIC

MJ The Illusion

One-of-a-kind production that takes guests on a journey through the music, dance, and visuals of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. More than a concert, the audience is immersed in the magic of Jackson's music, from his breakthrough album "Off the Wall" to his hits like "Thriller" and "Smooth Criminal" and, of course, "Billie Jean" October 9, 8 Dracula

Another dip into Jane Austen’s iconic story of love, sisterhood and English aristocracy returns to the silver screen this fall. Starring Daisy Edgar-Jones as Elinor, Frank Dillane as Willoughby, and Herbert Nordrum as Colonel Brandon. Opening October 16. FESTIVAL

Beaches Octoberfest

Get ready to prost! and raise your steins for a weekend filled with live music, cold brews, and memories just yards of the sand. Come hungry and enjoy a taste of Bavaria with traditional German dishes like bratwurst, pretzels, schnitzel, and more crafted by top local chefs. This year’s lineup of musical acts includes Sister Hazel, Coyote Island, and Wax Monkey, playing October 16 and 17 at the Seawalk Pavilion, Jacksonville Beach, $17-$160. MUSIC

The Smashing Pumpkins

The Rats In A Cage Tour follows a multi-faceted 2025 anniversary blowout for Mellon Collie, including a deluxe vinyl reissue featuring previously unheard live recordings from the world tour supporting the album, a special reimagining of the record's iconic hits and beloved fan-favorites onstage with the Lyric Opera Of Chicago. Hear it October 17, 8 PM, VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. COMEDY

Garrison Keillor Tonight

Garrison Keillor did “A Prairie Home Companion” for forty years, wrote fiction and comedy, and invented a town called Lake Wobegon where all the children are above average. He’s busy in retirement still writing and taking the stage, as he does October 20, 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $51-$87. TV

The Terminal List

Expect lots of action, fights, shooting and the like when Chris Pratt returns as special operator James Reece. Also starring Tom Hopper, Dar Salim and Gabriel Luna. All 8 episodes drop October 21 on Prime Video. MUSIC

Jacksonville Symphony

Sir Elton John, Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber are not only

THE TO-DO LIST knights—they also happen to be three of the most successful songwriters of all time with careers that span decades. Music of the Knights honors their lasting musical influence with songs such as “Memory,” “The Phantom of the Opera,” “Your Song,” “Circle of Life,” “Yesterday” and “Hey Jude.” Hear them and more October 23, 11 AM, and October 23 and 24, 7:30 PM, at Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $33-$110. FILM

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

The ultimate Halloween movie, Rocky Horror is now a cult classic, preserved by the Library of Congress. The 1975 musical is a tribute to the science fiction “B Movies” of the 1940s and ’50s. Its amazing cast included then young actors Tim Curry as mad scientist Dr. Frank N. Furter, Susan Sarandon and Barry Bostwick as the heroine and hero. Props and costumes welcome (but no meat, please) October 24, 8 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $36.

nomination while worshipping Jesus as a unified congregation. With special guests Charity Gayle, Red Worship and Terrian, October 30, 7 PM, VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $46-$180. FILM

The Phantom of the Opera

A one-of-a-kind experience with the Bryan Concert Organ and a cinematic gem is presented as organist Brett Miller performs a live improvisation to the silent classic The Phantom of the Opera (1925), transforming every scene with dramatic sound and spellbinding atmosphere—all while the film plays on the big screen in Jacoby Symphony Hall October 30, 7:30 PM, at Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $29-$70.

Jacksonville Symphony

Patrons will journey through Symphony No. 9, a deeply personal work that spans vast emotional landscapes while revealing moments of profound vulnerability. Fragile stillness gives way to surges of intensity, irony and yearning as Gustav Mahler twists beauty and tension into constantly shifting forms for two performances November 6 and 7, 7:30 PM, at Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $39-$110.

NOVEMBER

SPORT

THEATER

Jailbreak 5K

Capitol Fools

Make an escape from St. Augustine’s Oldest Jail, race over the Vilano Bridge and finish near the beach before catching an Old Town Trolley Tours shuttle back to the start. Proceeds from this annual race benefit INK! and its programs supporting St. Johns County public school teachers and students. Lace up October 24, 8 AM, $25-$45.

MUSIC

What happens when Washington, D.C.’s premiere, political satire group, The Capitol Steps, call it quits after nearly 40 years? An intrepid group of cast members and a co-writer would not go quietly into that good night, and a new band of fools reflected on a world without musical, political satire, and didn’t like what they saw. And just like that The Capitol Fools were born. Taking the stage November 1, 2 PM, at the Thrasher-Horne Center, $24-$69.

A Flock of Seagulls MUSIC

A Flock of Seagulls

As well-known for their bizarrely teased haircuts as their hit single "I Ran (So Far Away)," the band was one of the infamous one-hit wonders of the new wave era. Their sleek dance-pop sound was forever indebted to the short-lived movement, and it continues November 7, 8 PM, at the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, $53-$81.

FESTIVAL

Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair After 70 years in Downtown Jax, the Fair has made a major move into a bigger, bolder future, going from 15 acres to a whopping 82+ acres of festival-ready land on the Westside built for more rides, more attractions, more exhibits, and more entertainment. Among the many musical acts scheduled to perform are JJ Grey & Mofro, Jake Owen, Corey Smith and Dwight Yoakam November 5-15, 13601 Normandy Blvd., tickets start at $25.

THEATRE

Brian Kilmeade

Brian Kilmeade has been on the air for 6 hours a day, 5 days a week, since 2006. Not many broadcasters can say that. After joining Fox News in 1997, he was soon named co-host of Fox & Friends, where he still thrives today. He takes the stage November 8, 7 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $91-$123. COMEDY

SPORT

Jailbreak 5K EXHIBITION

Florida Bridal & Wedding Expo

Congratulations on your engagement! Now the whirlwind of wedding planning begins. That’s where the Bridal Expo helps, with a gathering of dozens of nuptial services providers—bands, gowns, favors, florists, photographers, salons…. you get the idea— October 25, 1:30-5 PM, at the Prime Osborn Convention Center, $10 at the door. MUSIC

Cece Winans

The “Come Worship! Tour" is an invitation from Winans to bring together audiences of every generation, ethnicity, and de-

Jacksonville Icemen

The approach of winter means it’s nearly ice hockey season, and Jax Icemen grab their skates and sticks for the first home game October 31 versus the Atlanta Gladiators. That frigid clash is followed by games November 6-8, 10, 13, 14, 20 and 25. Pucks drop at 7 PM at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena.

Paula Poundstone

Comedian Poundstone is known for her smart, observational humor and a spontaneous wit. She regularly plays theaters across the country, hosts a weekly comedy podcast, Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone, and is a regular panelist on NPR’s Wait, Wait… Don’t Tell Me. Surely, some will be listening November 13, 7:30 PM, at the WJCT Soundstage, $76-$95.

MUSIC

Jacksonville Porchfest

Bring the picnic blanket and lawn chairs and come sit on someone’s yard. They won’t mind because this is Porchfest, a free, family friendly music festival featuring over 20 musical acts performing on porch-front stages throughout Springfield. Plus, there will be food trucks, craft beers, arts and crafts vendors Saturday, November 7, noon-8 PM.

SPORT

Amelia Island Petanque Tournament It’s the largest pétanque (a game kind of like bocce) tourney in the U.S., and this year more than 130 teams from around the world gather on Amelia for two days of competition, along with live music, food and drink vendors, all oceanside, November 13-15 at the Amelia Island Waterfront Park. u

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PERSPECTIVE

Rescue Me THROUGH THE POWERFUL BOND BETWEEN A SUFFERING SOUL AND A SERVICE DOG, LIVES ARE TRANSFORMED.

PLAY YARDS ^

PHOTOS BY MORGAN CALENBERG

“S

aving lives at both ends of the leash.” Perhaps no slogan has ever been more true than that of K9s For Warriors, a grassroots organization founded on the First Coast fifteen years ago. Because at one end of the leashes here are struggling veterans, and attached firm to the other are gentle pups, likely rescued from shelters located across the country. In a world that’s dealt hard blows to the two distinct individuals, often resulting in scars both visible and unseen, their coming together can literally mean a second chance to thrive. Most of the dogs enlisted into service here are mixed breeds. Labradors, poodles, shepherds—the genealogy is far less important than their temperament and abilities to focus, bond and follow prompts from trainers and, eventually, the veteran with whom they will be paired. Training for the day ceremoniously known as the “passing of the leash” can take nearly a year. And a dog that’s easily distracted by say, people or squeaky toys, may be better suited for one of the organization’s other missions, such as therapy animals for first responder agencies. According to Disabled American Veterans, every day approximately 18 veterans die by suicide across the country. At the same time, some 1,000 dogs will be euthanized. Those two glaring numbers are part of the reason for the creation of K9s For Warriors. Locally based with two facilities near Ponte Vedra Beach—the Davis Family Mega Kennel and Shari Duval National Headquarters (pictured)—the group’s staff of about 200 provides trained service dogs to military veterans suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and/or military sexual trauma. Since founding, more than 2,500 dogs have been rescued and 1,350 veterans provided a life-saving companion. However, the need is far greater than can be met. The waiting list for a service dog is about two years and it counts some 300 vets ready to undertake the free program. Each month, a new class of eight to twelve veterans arrives at K9s’ headquarters for an 18-day program where they are introduced to their new canine companion and then learn to live their lives together. The nearly 4-acre campus features small apartments for visiting vets, meeting spaces, a gym, and a large kitchen and dining area, as well as office space for staff, kennels, and fenced areas for training and playtime. Plus, there’s a bone-shaped pool in a small courtyard reserved for warriors and their new best friends. A similar, smaller facility is located near San Antonio, Texas. In addition to the training sessions on the grounds, vets and dogs take field trips to public spaces such as shopping centers and baseball games. There’s even a mock-up of airline seats so man and man’s-best-friend can become familiar with situations waiting for them when they return home. “We rescue the dog,” another slogan says. “The dog rescues the veteran.” What began as a mother’s hope for her son to heal in 2011 has grown into a movement to restore Veteran independence across the country. The non-profit organization, founded by Shari Duval in her garage with an inaugural class of eight warriors and dogs, will host a 15th anniversary celebration at its Ponte Vedra headquarters on November 11. u

46 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

KENNELS ^

FISHING POND

POOL

LIVING QUARTERS

WARRIOR CLUBHOUSE

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48 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

Private &

Public Schools OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA

FOR PARENTS, NORTHEAST FLORIDA’S EDUCATIONAL OPTIONS HAVE NEVER BEEN BETTER. From expanding private

school enrollment to new charter and traditional public schools opening, the choices are plentiful. Need more proof? Featured on the following pages are profiles of some of the region’s leading K-12 schools, as well as a handy chart detailing more than a dozen categories for comparison, from sports to test scores. Now, do your homework and find the right fit for your child.

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Select Northeast Florida

Private & Public Schools SCHOOL

ADDRESS

PHONE/WEBSITE

YEAR EST.

RELIGIOUS OR OTHER AFFILIATIONS

ENROLLMENT

GRADES

GENDER

UNIFORM

Bishop Kenny High School

1055 Kingman Ave. 32207

904-398-7545 bishopkenny.org

1952

Catholic

1,400

9-12

Co-ed

Yes

The Bolles School

7400 San Jose Blvd. 32217

904-256-5030 bolles.org

1933

None

1,806

PreK-12

Co-ed

Yes

Collage Day School

171 Canal Blvd. Ponte Vedra, 32082

904-900-1439 collagedayschool.org

2017

None

315

3 month5th grade

Co-ed

ages 3+

The Covenant School of Jacksonville

2300 Bartram Rd.

904-265-7474 wearecovenant.org

2008

Protestant

405

PreK-12

Co-ed

Yes

The Discovery School

102 15th St. S. 32250

904-247-4577 thediscoveryschool.org

1990

None

362

18 month8th grade

Co-ed

Yes

Douglas Anderson School of the Arts

2445 San Diego Rd. 32207

904-346-5620 DA-arts.org

1985

N/A

1,060

9-12

Co-ed

N/A

Episcopal School of Jacksonville

4455 Atlantic Blvd. 32207

904-396-5751 esj.org

1966

Episcopal

1,600

age 1grade 12

Co-ed

Yes

The Foundation Academy

3675 San Pablo Rd. S. 32224

904-493-7300 www.foundationacademy.com

1988

Christian

350

K-12

Co-ed

Greenwood School

9920 Regency Square Blvd. 32225

904-726-5000 greenwoodjax.org

1985

None

205

6-12

Co-ed

Yes

Hydaway Collective

291 S. Wilderness Trail 32082

904-871-4781 hydawaycollective.com

2026

N/A

rolling

PreK-5

Co-ed

Jacksonville Country Day School

10063 Baymeadows Rd. 32256

904-641-6644 jcds.com

1960

None

449

PreK3-5

Co-ed

Yes

The Mandala School

185 Landrum Lane 32082

904-373-0743 TheMandalaSchool.org

2025

None

K-12

Co-ed

Providence School

2701 Hodges Blvd. 32224

904-223-5270 prov.org

1997

Christian

1,700+

PreK-12

Co-ed

Yes

Riverside Presbyterian Day School

830 Oak St. 32204

904-353-5511 rpds.com

1948

Christian

380

PreK3-6

Co-ed

Dress Code

St. Johns Country Day School

3100 Doctors Lake Dr. 32073

904-264-9572 sjcds.net

1953

None

500

PreK3-12

Co-ed

Yes

Seacoast Charter Academy

9570 Regency Square Blvd. 904-562-4780 seacoastcharteracademy.org 32225

2010

None

514

VPK-5

Co-ed

Yes

1967

Christian

1,660

Nursery-12

Co-ed

Yes

Trinity Christian Academy

50 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

800 Hammond Blvd. 32221

904-596-2460 TCAJax.org

NOTE: School details posted here are subject to change. Parents are encouraged to confirm all information. We attempted to verify the chart by contacting all of the schools listed. Questions we were not able to confirm were left blank. | Updated September 2026 STUDENT/ FACULTY RATIO

ANNUAL TUITION

ACCREDITING AGENCY

TEAM SPORTS

#AP CLASSES

AVG. TEST SCORES

OPEN HOUSE DATES

2026-27 APPLICATION DEADLINE

18:1

$15,100

NCPSA, SACS, FCC

Boys: 11; Girls: 12 Co-ed: 2

26, AP Capstone Diploma

N/A

October 24, 2026

November 23, 2026

varies

$14,580 - $34,660 Boarding: $70,770

FCIS, SAIS, NAIS

Boys: 14; Girls: 13

N/A

from October 6 to January 7

January 30, 2027

ELC 9:1 K5 18:1

ELC $6,000-$23,676 K5 $14,480

NCPSA APPLE, FACCM, NAEYC

N/A

by appointment

rolling admissions

Lower School 18:1; Upper School 20:1

$12,250-$13,100

ACSI + COGNIA

Boys: 5; Girls: 6

online

Top 20% Nationally

by appointment

rolling admissions

Toddler, 6:1 PreK-8, 10:1

$13,500 - $24,500

FCIS, IBO

Boys: 4; Girls: 4

N/A

check website

January 31, 2027

19:1

N/A

COGNIA

N/A

contact school

Auditions in January & February

varies

$10,150-$34,950

FCIS, SAIS

Boys: 15; Girls: 15

N/A

check website

January 29, 2027

Elementary + Middle 15:1 High School 20:1

$15,000

COGNIA

Boys: 3; Girls: 3

Dual Enrollment

N/A

personal tours

rolling admissions

12:1

$17,527

FCIS

Boys: 3; Girls: 3

N/A

by appointment

rolling admissions

N/A

varies

N/A

varies

N/A

varies

$11,540 - $25,030

FCIS, COGNIA, SATS

Boys: 4; Girls: 4

N/A

personal tours

January 29, 2027

12:2

$10,850-$24,850

—

N/A

by appointment

rolling enrollment

N/A

$4,656 - $18,900

ACSI, COGNIA

Boys: 13; Girls: 13

23 AP; 9 Dual Enrollment

N/A

by appointment

rolling admissions

varies

$6,260 - $20,710

FCIS, NAIS

Boys: 3; Girls: 3

—

visit website

January 29, 2027

12:1

$14,950-$25,200

FCIS, NAIS

Boys: 10; Girls: 11

N/A

see sjcds.net/visit

January 29, 2027

VPK 10:1 K-3, 18:1 4-5, 22:1

N/A

COGNIA

N/A

by appointment

rolling admissions

varies

$11,500-$14,240

ACSI, COGNIA, FACCS

Boys: 9; Girls: 10

6 AP; 8 Dual Enrollment

N/A

online

check website for updates

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BISHOP KENNY HIGH SCHOOL “Let your light shine,” Matthew 5:16. BISHOP KENNY HIGH SCHOOL DIAMOND JUBILEE: CELEBRATING A LEGACY OF 75 YEARS OF FAITH, SERVICE, AND EXCELLENCE.

Forged by faith and tradition, Bishop Kenny High School celebrates 75 years of academic excellence and unwavering conviction to Gospel values that prepare its graduates for the many facets of life. Serving as a light in the Jacksonville community, BK takes the words “Let your light shine,” Matthew 5:16, as a call to live the Christ-like values at the core of its mission. Since 1952, Bishop Kenny High School has guided generations of students towards lives of conviction and integrity, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to their faith, families, and global communities. Rooted in Catholic values and traditions, our mission is to partner with parents in the education and formation of their children by providing a culture of faith, a rigorous curriculum, and personal enrichment opportunities through which all students can achieve and excel as they prepare for college and for life.

The school’s beautiful 55-acre campus offers innovative learning spaces and state-of-the-art athletic facilities. Nearly every student engages in one or more of over 50 clubs, and more than half competes on athletic teams, honing leadership, commitment, and sportsmanship skills for life after high school. The journey of our students is one where faith informs action and learning inspires purpose.

offers 40 STEM courses that engage students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. A medical school-level Anatomage Table, a collaborative makerspace for robotics, and the Demetree Learning Commons, which provides digital resources, 3D printing, and a student-run help desk, challenge students to fulfill their academic potential. BK has also been named an Apple Distinguished School for 2024–2027, becoming the first high school in Northeast Florida to earn this distinction for visionary use of technology in teaching and learning. As Jacksonville’s premier Catholic college preparatory school, Bishop Kenny’s strong Catholic values inform everything we do. We not only recall the history that has shaped generations of graduates but also reaffirm our commitment to live our mission and vision through prayer, service, family, and academic scholarship. For 75 years, the light of Bishop Kenny’s students and more than 17,000 graduates has radiated in countless ways to illuminate Christ’s love in the world. We celebrate that history as we look faithfully forward to the next 75 years.

Students may choose from 26 Advanced Placement courses, including the AP Capstone Diploma Program, as well as a wide range of performing and practical arts. Additionally, Bishop Kenny

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1 055 KINGMAN AVE., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32207 (904) 398-7545 BISHOPKENNY.ORG/ADMISSIONS

THE BOLLES SCHOOL Value Realized in Who They Become THE VALUE REALIZED IN A BOLLES EDUCATION IS BOTH IMMEDIATE AND ENDURING – grounded in purpose, reflected in the opportunities

created and ultimately defined by who students become. Through sustained investment across academics, athletics, the arts and campus life, Bolles delivers on that promise every day. Founded in 1933, The Bolles School is an independent, coeducational day and boarding school with four campuses and more than 1,800 students from Pre-K through Grade 12, all of whom are inspired to explore boldly, think critically and lead with empathy. From rigorous academics and championship athletics to vibrant arts programs and global learning experiences, Bolles students are encouraged to discover their passions and pursue them with confidence.

A shining example of the School’s commitment to immersive, handson learning is the Frank R. Sanchez and Hope and Dana E. Fender Center for Innovation, located on the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus. This three-story, 47,000-square-foot facility houses the School’s science, math and technology programs, offering expansive spaces for advanced courses in robotics, computer programming, information technology, engineering and design. Just as Bolles fosters innovation in learning, it also cultivates a global perspective through its diverse student population. Students represent 70 countries and speak 25 languages, bringing a wealth of perspectives to campus life. The Resident Life Program, which includes boarding students from 25 countries and 13 states, adds depth to the day student body’s culturally rich environment. In the 2026-27 school year, the program grew to double the girls’ boarding capacity through a dorm expansion project made possible by the Gund family.

Advanced Placement courses, guided by expert faculty who spark intellectual engagement and help students uncover their unique interests and academic strengths. The School’s comprehensive fine and performing arts program provides courses in drama, dance, visual arts, chorus, music and band. Among middle and upper school students, 70 percent enrolled in fine and performing arts classes this year, while 100 percent of lower school students are involved in art, music and theater instruction. Athletics at Bolles are world-renowned, with 27 sports in middle school and upper school. Bolles Swimming has been represented at every Olympics since 1972, with a total of 67 Bolles students, former students and Bolles Sharks competing over the years. Bolles’ Olympic history now includes 15 medalists, winning a total of 36 medals – including 21 gold. The true measure of a Bolles education is seen long after graduation. Through transformative experiences, meaningful relationships and an All Things Possible approach to learning, Bolles develops graduates who embody The Bolles Way through courage, integrity and compassion. Equipped with the skills, perspective and resilience to thrive in a rapidly changing world, they embrace challenges, lead with purpose and contribute to their communities in lasting ways.

Academically, Bolles offers courses in five world languages and 32

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7400 SAN JOSE BLVD., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32217 (904) 256-5030 BOLLES.ORG

EPISCOPAL SCHOOL OF JACKSONVILLE A Portrait of Potential WITH THREE CAMPUSES LOCATED ACROSS NORTHEAST FLORIDA, only Episcopal School of Jacksonville is able to serve

students and families through every phase of their academic journey, from age one through 12th grade. We are a community where students benefit from our rigorous curriculum, vibrant fine arts offerings, outstanding athletic programs, diverse extracurricular programs, small class sizes, and exceptional faculty; the global community benefits from the contributions and leadership of our graduates. Episcopal School of Jacksonville prepares students for success in college and beyond by delivering a unique balance across Four Pillars — Academics, Athletics, Spiritual Life, and Fine Arts. An Episcopal graduate lives into his or her potential by becoming a well-rounded individual who seeks understanding, develops a sense of self, lives with honor and purpose, and pursues a life of faith. We invite you to visit one of our three campuses to learn more:

Grades 6 - 12 on the Munnerlyn Campus, located at 4455 Atlantic Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32207. Phone: (904) 396-5751 Pre-K 3 - Grade 5 on the Beaches Campus, located at 450 11th Avenue North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250. Phone: (904) 246-2466 Age 1 - Grade 5 on the St. Mark’s Campus, located at 4114 Oxford Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32210. Phone: (904) 388-2632

EPISCOPAL SCHOOL of JACKSONVILLE

4455 ATLANTIC BLVD., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32207 (904) 396-5751 • ESJ.ORG

EPISCOPAL SCHOOL of JACKSONVILLE

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PROVIDENCE SCHOOL Boldly Christian, Unquestionably Academic SINCE ITS OPENING OVER 30 YEARS AGO, PROVIDENCE HAS DEVELOPED INTO one of the premier private Christian schools

in Northeast Florida. It is one of a few schools in the area that offers a seamless education from preschool through 12th grade, incorporating college-preparatory academics, an awardwinning fine arts program, and a championship FHSAA athletic program. Providence, as a Christ-centered community, is deeply committed to its Christian mission, which demonstrates God’s love in ways we serve the community through local outreach, global missions trips, weekly chapel services, spiritual retreats, Bible classes, and daily prayer. Motivated by a challenging academic experience, our program offers College Preparatory, Advanced Placement, Dual Enrollment, or Honors programs to prepare students for the next level of academic achievement. Our distinguished faculty and staff model their Christian values inside and outside the classroom. They purposefully create interactive environments that promote student engagement. Our college counselors work one-on-one with

students to help them discover God’s unique plan for their lives, establish good college matches, and identify potential lifelong careers. For the last several years, our graduates have received 100% college acceptance, and in 5 years, our graduates have been offered over $46 million in college scholarships. We’d love to show you why Providence is more than just a school; we are a family! To learn more, go to www.prov.org or call 904-223-5270 to schedule a campus visit.

2701 HODGES BLVD., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32224 (904) 223-5270 • WWW.PROV.ORG

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RIVERSIDE PRESBYTERIAN DAY SCHOOL Riverside’s Mission: Educate the mind, nurture the spirit & foster the development of the whole child. FOR OVER 75 YEARS, RIVERSIDE PRESBYTERIAN DAY SCHOOL HAS had a passion for foundational childhood education that

uniquely lays the building blocks for a lifetime of learning. Riverside’s mission is to educate the mind, nurture the spirit, and foster the development of the whole child. Our educational program reflects this commitment and is designed to build knowledgeable, well-rounded, critically thinking individuals who respect the differences of others in preparation for life in a global community.

Beginning in September, we invite prospective families to join us for events across campus including: Parent Tours, weekly Chapel services, School Plays, Rams on the Rise events, and more. In the meantime, we encourage you to explore how our Rams are collaborating, creating, and leading by visiting our website, rpds.com.

Riverside provides a child-centered learning environment for PreK 3 through 6th Grade students that is dedicated to imagination and wonder. Our talented faculty shares a challenging academic program, designed to unwrap the joy of learning through discovery and reflection. Our students learn to value and respect the unique qualities inherent within themselves. We invite you to visit our campus and explore your future at Riverside.

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830 OAK ST., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32204 (904) 353-3459 • RPDS.COM

TRINITY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Made for More. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” — Ephesians 2:10 AT TRINITY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY, WE BELIEVE EVERY STUDENT IS MADE FOR MORE — CREATED ON PURPOSE, FOR A PURPOSE, AND EQUIPPED TO DISCOVER AND LIVE IT OUT. Founded in

1967 to meet the academic, spiritual, physical, and social needs of students, Trinity Christian Academy has spent nearly six decades pointing students toward the same purpose. Today, more than 1,660 students from Nursery through 12th grade make up TCA’s co-ed community, united around one mission: to empower students to discover and live out their God-given purpose. Trinity is accredited by ACSI, Cognia, and FACCS, reflecting the school’s ongoing commitment to excellence in Christian education. At Trinity, we offer a college-preparatory education in a Christcentered environment, with opportunities for students to grow academically, creatively, and athletically. From innovative technology and engaging classroom experiences to our awardwinning fine arts, theater, and outstanding athletic programs — including nine boys’ and 10 girls’ team sports — we are committed to providing an education that prepares students for success while helping them grow in their faith. Backed by a challenging curriculum that includes Advanced Placement and dual enrollment coursework and supported by dedicated guidance counselors, TCA students graduate with a university

acceptance rate of more than 90 percent — ready for what’s ahead academically, spiritually, and personally. We see parents and guardians as partners in every student’s Made for More journey — together sharing one desire: to see each child thrive academically, spiritually, and personally. That shared purpose grounds our community in a Christ-centered mission, biblical worldview, and Statement of Faith, a partnership at the heart of every TCA education. For detailed information about enrollment criteria, important dates, and the admissions process, families can refer to the Admissions Handbook, which provides additional guidance for each academic year. Campus tours can be scheduled anytime at go.tcajax.org/tour. Please check the website for updates on enrollment. If you’re looking for a school that sees your child’s full potential, Trinity Christian Academy is ready to partner with your family.

800 HAMMOND BOULEVARD, JACKSONVILLE, FL 32221 (904) 596-2460 • TCAJAX.ORG

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COLLAGE DAY SCHOOL Whole child approach to learning CURIOSITY BECOMES CONFIDENCE WHEN CHILDREN ARE INVITED TO ASK QUESTIONS, EXPLORE IDEAS, AND APPLY WHAT THEY LEARN. Collage Day School’s project-based

learning approach connects literacy, mathematics, science, STEAM, the arts, and creative expression through handson investigations that help students think critically and solve problems. Teachers use differentiated instruction to support each child’s developmental needs while encouraging independence, imagination, and ownership of learning. Collage Day School highlights project-based learning as a way students develop as problem solvers, innovators, communicators, and creators. The result is an engaging academic experience where students build strong foundations and discover the joy of learning with purpose. Book a school visit today.

THE COVENANT SCHOOL OF JACKSONVILLE Come discover the Covenant difference firsthand. THE COVENANT SCHOOL OF JACKSONVILLE IS A CLASSICAL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL in Northeast Florida committed to

equipping students with knowledge, wisdom, virtue, and joy. Since 2009, The Covenant School of Jacksonville has partnered with like-hearted and like-minded families to provide their students with the finest education and is the first private school in Florida, and one of the first ten private schools in the nation, to be a licensed user of Hillsdale K-12 curriculum. Located on nearly 30 acres adorned with majestic oaks in Jacksonville, Florida, Covenant’s campus is a safe, state-of-the-art, beautiful picture of God’s glory where students, Preschool through Grade 12, reach their full potential to fulfill God’s plan for their lives.

171 CANAL BLVD., PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL 32082 (904) 900-1439 INFO@COLLAGEDAYSCHOOL.ORG COLLAGEDAYSCHOOL.ORG

2300 BARTRAM ROAD, JACKSONVILLE, FL 32207 (904) 265-7474 WWW.WEARECOVENANT.ORG

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GEEK CHIC PHOTOGRAPHY

DOUGLAS ANDERSON SCHOOL OF THE ARTS Where Arts and Creativity Grow. JACKSONVILLE’S PUBLIC ARTS HIGH SCHOOL—DOUGLAS ANDERSON SCHOOL OF THE ARTS (DA) PROVIDES INTENSIVE AND ADVANCED PLACEMENT STUDIES IN THE ARTS AND ACADEMICS. DA is for students with a passion for intensive study in the

THE DISCOVERY SCHOOL Discover the greatness in your child. FOUNDED IN 1990, THE DISCOVERY SCHOOL IS A DYNAMIC INDEPENDENT SCHOOL located in Jacksonville Beach serving

children ages 18 months through 8th grade. Your child’s educational path starts in an authentic Montessori classroom and advances to a globally recognized program, the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme starting at age 3. Its student-centered approach to education reflects the best of educational research, thought leadership, and experience. Our Vision is to cultivate an inclusive and vibrant community that promotes knowledge, creativity, independent thinking, and mutual respect. When we meld imagination with compassion and academic excellence, there is no limit to what our students can achieve.

Arts. Long known as the high school “Where Arts and Academics Meet in Excellence,” DA offers a college preparatory curriculum that grooms students for this country’s leading universities and conservatories. Consistently ranked in the top 1% of Best High Schools in the nation, DA is an 11-time National Grammy Winner and was honored as the Best High School Jazz Band in the country by Downbeat Magazine. DA’s 2026 graduates received over 21 million in college scholarships and their average SAT scores were 67+ points above the national average. Established as an arts school in 1985, the school attracts students from all parts of North Florida and South Georgia. If your child has a special talent in the arts, Douglas Anderson School of the Arts can help foster their growth and excellence as students, grades 9 through 12, are carefully nurtured through intensive study.

AUDITIONS are held each year in Dance, Visual Arts, Vocal Music, Orchestra, Piano, Guitar, Instrumental Music, Cinematic Arts, Theatre, and Creative Writing. Acceptance into Douglas Anderson School of the Arts (Grades 9-12) is solely through the audition process. DA invites all students, who have intermediate or advanced level skills in the performing and visual arts, to audition. Applications can be found on the school website: DA-arts.org EXTRAVAGANZA: Saturday, February 13, 2027 Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, hosts its 40th annual Extravaganza, at the Moran Theater on Saturday, February 13, 2027The Art Exhibition begins at 6:00 p.m.; the theater performance starts at 7:00 p.m.The showcase features some of the area’s most accomplished high school performers in dance, theater, vocal music, instrumental music, film, visual arts and creative writing.

2445 SAN DIEGO RD., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32207 DA-ARTS.ORG DOUGLASANDERSONSOTA ON FACEBOOK

102 15TH ST. S., JACKSONVILLE BEACH, FL 32250 (904) 247-4577 ADMISSIONS@THEDISCOVERYSCHOOL.ORG THEDISCOVERYSCHOOL.ORG

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HYDAWAY COLLECTIVE

THE MANDALA SCHOOL

Where Curiosity, Connection & Growth Come Naturally

A Place Where Different Ways of Learning Are Understood

AT HYDAWAY COLLECTIVE, WE BELIEVE CHILDREN THRIVE WHEN THEY HAVE OPPORTUNITIES TO EXPLORE, CREATE, MOVE AND CONNECT WITH THE WORLD AROUND THEM.

Our hands-on educational experiences complement traditional and homeschool learning through nature, animals, movement, creativity and meaningful exploration. From homeschool enrichment and after-school programs to preschool experiences, TimberNook®, Open Farm Fridays, field trips and camps, Hydaway gives children space to discover new interests, build confidence and develop real-world skills, all while experiencing the joy of childhood in a natural setting. Beyond education, Hydaway Collective brings together equine experiences, wellness, events and community programming, creating opportunities for people of all ages to learn, connect, recharge and experience something meaningful. Come learn, explore and grow with us!

FINDING THE RIGHT LEARNING ENVIRONMENT FOR A CHILD WHO LEARNS DIFFERENTLY CAN FEEL OVERWHELMING.

You want a school where your child is understood, supported, appropriately challenged, and given the opportunity to experience success, both academically and personally. At The Mandala School, small student-to-teacher ratio class sizes allow for greater individual attention and encourage students, regardless of their learning preferences, to engage with academics in ways that work for them. Personalized and differentiated instruction, hands-on learning, sensory-aware experiences, and enriching co-curricular activities help students build confidence and independence while discovering their individual strengths, interests, and abilities. Because the right environment can change the way a child experiences learning. Now enrolling for the 2026–2027 school year!

291 S WILDERNESS TRAIL, PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL 32082 (904) 871-4781 • WWW.HYDAWAYCOLLECTIVE.COM

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185 LANDRUM LANE, PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL 32082 (904) 373-0743 • WWW.THEMANDALASCHOOL.ORG

THE FOUNDATION ACADEMY Where Learning Comes Alive and Who You Become Matters FOUNDED IN 1988, THE FOUNDATION ACADEMY OFFERS a

transformative educational experience rooted in creativity, inquiry, and personal growth. Our approach is anything but conventional — here, learning is a dynamic, hands-on journey that adapts to each student’s unique style and sparks their innate curiosity. Through standards-driven research, students design meaningful projects and presentations that deepen their understanding and showcase their voice. Collaborative group discourse and thoughtful teacher feedback cultivate not only academic mastery but the confidence to teach others what they’ve learned — a true mark of internalized knowledge. Academics are enriched through musical theatre performances, 2D,3D,Fiber,Ceramic, and Digital arts programs, community service work, multiple academic field trips, and campus wide events. 3675 SAN PABLO RD S, JACKSONVILLE, FL 32224 904-493-7300 WWW.FOUNDATIONACADEMY.COM

ST. JOHNS COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL You belong here. PRIVATE SCHOOL EDUCATION IS CLOSER — AND MORE ACCESSIBLE — THAN YOU THINK. If your child is getting lost

in the crowd, it’s time for something different. At St. Johns Country Day School, we combine small class sizes with big opportunities — so every child is known, supported, and encouraged to thrive in a safe, nurturing environment.

• Pre-Kindergarten 3 through Grade 12 together on one campus • Florida School Choice Scholarships (FES-EO/FTC) are accepted • Bus service available • Call (904) 264-9572 or visit sjcds.net to schedule a tour

GREENWOOD SCHOOL A different way of teaching. A better way of learning. GREENWOOD SCHOOL EMPOWERS MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DIFFERENCES through personalized,

research-based, multi-sensory instruction in a safe, supportive environment. Fully accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools, Greenwood combines interactive technology with advanced coursework, Social Emotional Learning, and diverse extracurriculars. Its 13-acre protected wetland campus features a STEAM lab, outdoor garden, and a unique Environmental Sciences program, with an expanded mental health facility currently underway. Greenwood equips every student with the confidence, knowledge, and practical skills needed to realize their highest potential. 9920 REGENCY SQUARE BLVD., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32225 PH (904) 726-5000 FAX (904) 726-5056 GREENWOODJAX.ORG

3100 DOCTORS LAKE DRIVE, ORANGE PARK, FL 32073 (904) 264-9572 • SJCDS.NET

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SEACOAST CHARTER ACADEMY

JACKSONVILLE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

Give Them the Start They Deserve THE MISSION OF SEACOAST IS TO PROVIDE A STUDENTCENTERED EDUCATION, focusing on the whole child. We want

Strong Foundations, Lifelong Success AT JACKSONVILLE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL, STUDENTS IN PRE-K 3 THROUGH 5TH GRADE EXPERIENCE A TRANSFORMATIVE EDUCATION on our beautiful 19-acre campus in Jacksonville’s

Southside. As an elementary-focused school, JCDS nurtures the unique academic, social, and developmental needs of young learners. In a supportive community of educators, classmates, and families, students are inspired to learn with curiosity, creativity, perseverance, and confidence. Discover the JCDS experience by contacting us or scheduling a virtual tour today.

our students to develop a true love for learning by creating a positive learning environment with innovative technology and high-quality education, focused on an arts-integrated, handson curriculum with the overall goal of giving our elementary students a lifetime appreciation of learning and the development of their unique talents and abilities. Call to schedule a tour to see what makes us different.

PRE–K3 THROUGH 6TH GRADE 10063 BAYMEADOWS RD., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32256 (904) 641-6644 • JCDS.COM

9570 REGENCY SQUARE BLVD., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32225 (904) 562-4780 • SEACOASTCHARTERACADEMY.ORG

October 10 & 11

November 7

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Mesh Integration

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JACKSONVILLE MAGAZINE’S

BEST IN PETS Readers Poll 2026 From dog parks to emergency veterinary services, we highlight the First Coast’s leading people, businesses and places that make our region such a great place for our beloved pets. PET PORTRAITS BY AZ PHOTO JAX WORDS BY FABRIZIO GOWDY

June & Andrea Golden Retriever & Human

ust as we have done for nearly a decade, Jax Mag asked the residents of Northeast Florida to share their opinions about who are the best local pet care professionals in a variety of services ranging from accessory and toy shops to luxurious pet accommodations. Plus, we asked for help naming the things like the best dog-friendly hotel, public parks, local animal rescue organization and more. The results are detailed on the following pages, along with a few short stories written especially for First Coast pet lovers.

64 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

And the winners are... The Complete List of 2026 Best in Pets Honorees Plus this year’s Runners Up

PET FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

Casbah Cafe

RUNNER UP: Wicked Barley PET FRIENDLY BAR

Brewhound

RUNNER UP: The Block Jax DOG FRIENDLY HOTEL

Margaritaville

RUNNER UP: Aloft Tapestry Park LUXURY PET SPLURGE

Woof Gang Bakery

nonprofit Rethreaded and paired with Azar sausage, which is made just a couple miles away. The store also offers one of Jacksonville’s most unique entertainment options — chicken poop bingo, which can be hired out for events and fundraisers. Even as Jacksonville’s cow pastures have mostly become suburbs and strip malls over the past eight decades, Standard Feed & Seed has maintained a remarkably steady presence in the heart of the urban core. BIRD FOOD & FEEDERS

Wild Birds Unlimited (Jax Beach)

RUNNER UP: Pet Paradise

RUNNER UP: PetCo

DOG PARK

AQUATIC/FISH SUPPLIES

Brewhound

Floating Sea Aquatics

RUNNER UP: Kanine Social

RUNNER UP: Pet Supplies Plus

PET FRIENDLY PUBLIC PARK

PET SHOP

Boone Park

RUNNER UP: Sunshine Beach Park PUBLIC HORSE TRAIL

Baldwin Rail Trail

RUNNER UP: Moses Creek Park FEED STORE

Standard Feed & Seed

For 80 years, Standard Feed & Seed has been a fixture on Kings Road, connecting modern Jacksonville with the city’s agricultural roots. The store still prides itself on maintaining the same old-fashioned customer service and know-how as it did when the doors first opened on April Fools’ Day 1946. Today, the store serves everyone from backyard gardeners to hobby farmers and animal owners, with more than 150 varieties of garden and vegetable seeds and feed for animals large and small. There are also some unexpected finds, including pimento cheese made through a partnership with local

Pet Supplies Plus

Pet Supplies Plus continues to win the category because it continues to make life more convenient for pet parents. Juggling taking care of an animal with the demands of a busy schedule isn’t always easy, but Pet Supplies Plus is a true one-stop shop. Beyond food, treats, toys and supplies for many kinds of pets, locations may offer grooming, self-service dog washes, curbside pickup, delivery, Autoship and visiting veterinary clinics. Grooming services range from baths and nail trims to full-service appointments, with tools and cages cleaned and disinfected between visits. Whether the creature you share your home with is furry or scaly, winged or finned, two-legged, four-legged or legless, Pet Supplies Plus seems to have just what you need. RUNNER UP: Petsmart PET ACCESSORIES AND TOY SHOP & GROOMER

Bark on Park

Celebrating seventeen years treating Jax pets and owners to

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an array of services and products, Bark on Park has settled in nicely to funky 5 Points in Riverside. The menu of services ranges from day care and boarding to one of their true specialties, grooming. As they say, regular grooming of one’s dog promotes a healthy coat and skin, leading to a healthier, happier pet. Body massage with shampoo and conditioner, brush out and blow dry, clean ears, nails trimmed, finishing spray of perfume…. Yes, please! Drop off hours start early at 7 AM. Love the shady doggie playground out back. The boutique sells assorted natural food, baked goods, apparel for both two- and four-legged customers, as well as tote bags, hats, mugs, chewy toys, leashes, collars, and more. RUNNER UP: Woof Gang BEST VETERINARIAN

Forever Vets

Oliver & Beth

American Quarter Horse & Human

Lulu

Golden Retriever

pool is a must-do in the summertime. Dive all in with a complete grooming session—full-body haircut, warm bath, nails trimmed, ears cleaned, gentle brushing… why would your pet ever want to leave? RUNNER UP: K9 Resorts EXOTIC ANIMAL HOSPITAL

Exotic Bird Hospital

RUNNER UP: UF Health Small Animal Hospital EQUINE VETERINARY SERVICE

Black Creek Veterinary Hospital EMERGENCY SERVICE

First Coast Veterinary Specialists

What started with a single animal hospital in Baymeadows in 2013 has grown into a network of top-flight hospitals, pet resorts and an urgent care center serving communities throughout Florida. Forever Vets cares for pets through every stage of life, from routine wellness exams and preventive care to chronic conditions and more immediate medical needs. The veterinary team places an emphasis on building lasting relationships with pets and their people, with locations across Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach, Nocatee, St. Augustine and St. Johns. Beyond veterinary care, select locations offer pet resort services, including daycare, making it a convenient stop for keeping four-legged family members happy and healthy.

RUNNER UP: Jacksonville Beach

RUNNER UP: Cole Veterinary

It’s been more than 20 years since the very first Pet Paradise opened its doors right here in the River City. Today, the Jax-based company counts more than 60 resorts peppered across nine states. The growing collection of sites—including seven in Northeast Florida—offers overnight boarding, resort-style day camp, professional grooming, dog training and NewDay Veterinary Care all under one roof. Lots of roofs, actually. If looking to lodge your favorite furry friend here, overnight boarding services range from climate-controlled suites and supervised playtime to VIP upgrades and daily photos sent to owners. Of course, the splash pool is a favorite for four-legged guests, especially during the long, hot summers. New clients are invited to

LUXURIOUS PET ACCOMMODATIONS

Bark Avenue Pet Resorts When ordinary lodgings just won’t do, it’s time to consider an upgrade or two. At Bark Avenue, all boarders have access to the pet resort’s many amenities and services. For overnight stays, the Luxury Suites (measuring 8-by-8 with an 8-by-16 foot patio) with raised beds are the way to go. Plus, they offer additional perks such as extra TLC time, webcam access for owners, and their signature frosty paws treats. The faux fireplace adds an extra homey touch. All boarders receive 30 minutes of 1-on-1 playtime in the morning and evening. A dip in the bone-shaped

Emergency Vet

GROOMING SERVICE

Bark on Park

RUNNER UP: Zen Dog Grooming DOG WALKING SERVICE

Sapphire & Sapphire

RUNNER UP: Dog Days and Cat Naps PET SITTING SERVICE

Bad to the Bone

RUNNER UP: Dog Days and Cat Naps OVERNIGHT BOARDING

Pet Paradise

Continued on page 70

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Lily

Persian

MONEY TALKS

A recent survey conducted by the Harris Poll ahead of National Dog Day (August 26), shows that Americans don’t just love their pets, they are making personal financial decisions around them. The survey found that 57% of Americans own a dog, 40% own a cat and more than 90% of those pet owners consider their animals to be a member of the family.

Say, What?

Among the latest pieces of tech for pets is something called “Ask Your Dog,” a new feature integrated into French tech firm Invoxia’s Biotracker app. Using AI, health data collected through the paired collar— specifically heart and respiratory rates, heart rate variability, and sleep patterns—is combined with GPS data to generate a message written in the first person, almost as if the dog is recounting its day to its owner. Every evening, the app generates a message which summarizes the dog’s day based on the collected data. Rather than displaying the information in typical charts or graphs, the artificial intelligence creates a written overview of the day’s events, taking into consideration the breed, age and habits of the pet. For example, “Last night, I slept well (8:20 AM, score 91/100). My heart rate remained stable all day, and I was in pretty good shape this afternoon, probably thanks to our walk in the forest.” Or it might say, “We went further than usual today, 3.2 miles. I loved discovering the new trail.”

Party With a Purpose

The Jacksonville Humane Society hosts the 28th Annual Toast to the Animals on Friday, October 2, at The Jessie in downtown Jax. The event is JHS’s premier annual fundraising event, with proceeds supporting the organization’s Medical Fund. Every dollar raised helps provide critical, lifesaving medical care for thousands of dogs and cats who come through the shelter each year. Guests are treated to a lively cocktail-style experience featuring tastings from more than 15 local restaurants, wine and beer service, and silent and live auctions filled with unique packages and experiences. A favorite experience each year is the Cuddle Corner, where patrons can spend time with adoptable pets and connect with the animals their generosity helps support. Tickets start at $150.

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Need more proof that this devotion runs deep? Nearly 70% of pet owners say they would be more likely to cut spending on themselves than their pets, if they had to make cuts, highlighting the important role pets play in American households. The survey also revealed that older pet owners may be especially devoted to protecting their animals’ well-being. Pet owners age 65 and older (81%) are more likely than younger pet owners to say that if they had to make cuts to their spending, they would be more likely to trim spending on themselves rather than on their pets. And it’s a lot of spending. The American Veterinary Association reports that petowning households spend an average of $1,515 per year on their animals, excluding adoption or purchase costs. But wait, there’s more. The love of pets is showing up in Americans’ insurance and estate planning. According to the survey, more than 40% of pet owners have pet insurance. Of the 73% of pet owners who report having a will or trust, 40% of those individuals have included provisions for their pets.

Cooper

Labradore Retriever

If you’re thinking of including your furry friends in estate planning documents, there are some considerations before putting pen to paper. For starters, pets generally cannot inherit assets directly, but one can create a plan to provide for their care. Identify who would care for your pet and how that care would be funded if something happens to you. Depending on your circumstances, a pet trust or other legal arrangement may provide additional protection. Be sure to update your documents following major life changes including adopting a new pet, moving, retirement or other changes in financial circumstances. u

Locally Owned & Operated

VOTED:

BEST PET S TORE & A Q U AT I C / F

Shop In Store or Order Online Today

ISH S

(RUNNER U UPPLIES P)

Schedule your Grooming Appointments Online

At Pet Supplies Plus it’s easy to ﬁnd everything you need for all of your furry, scaly & feathery friends. Our local stores are smaller by choice and our shelves are stocked with just the right products, chosen to help you keep them happy and healthy. With our free 1 hour curbside pickup or same-day delivery we’ll bring your order right to your car or straight to your door, so you can put more play back in your day! And our best in show groomers are waiting to pamper your pups! + Lowest price always with our Price Match Guarantee + Large variety of Made in the USA treats & toys + Full-service grooming & self-service pet wash + Save more when you sign up for Autoship!

Atlantic Beach 977 Atlantic Blvd 904.853.6406

Orange Park

510 Blanding Blvd 904.375.1232

St. Augustine

206 Ashourian Ave 904.342.8769

Voted Best Pet Shop for 10 Years in a Row! Thank you for choosing us year after year for Best in Pets! We couldn’t do it without you! — Brian Lakewood-San Jose 1614 University Blvd W 904.551.1144

Mon-Sat: 9am-9pm • Sun: 10am-6pm | www.petsuppliesplus.com

Yulee

463913 E State Rd 200 904.468.5855

Pistol & Heidi Pittbull & Human

visit and take a guided tour to see exactly where the pets play, sleep and get pampered. RUNNER UP: Dogtopia DOGGIE DAYCARE

Central Bark

Simply calling Central Bark Jacksonville a doggie day care really doesn’t feel like it does them justice. They take a sciencebased, enriching approach designed to help dogs learn, socialize and build confidence while staying physically and mentally active. A repeat category winner, Central Bark creates balanced days that combine indoor and outdoor playgroups, positive training, individual attention and scheduled downtime. Group activities reinforce skills such as recall, impulse control and calm movement through doors and gates, while private rest spaces give dogs time to relax and recharge. Personalized enrichment sessions incorporate puzzles, interactive toys, games and agility equipment to engage dogs’ minds, bodies and senses. Staff training, behavior assessments, health requirements and regular cleaning and disinfection support the facility’s focus on safety and well-being. RUNNER UP: Dog Beach

Our dogs may not work quite as hard as we do, but they still deserve the best while we are off at work or away on vacation. Jacksonville’s premier dog boarding and day care resort, Dog Beach in Ponte Vedra 70 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

Beach could fairly be called the Ritz of canine accommodations. Guests can spend their days enjoying fun-filled day care visits and pool parties (yes, pool parties), settle in for cozy boarding sleepovers, and receive luxurious spa services. Now celebrating five years in business, Dog Beach’s staff likes to pamper every pup as if it were their own. DOG TRAINING SERVICE

K-904

Maybe it’s true that you can’t teach an old dog a new trick, but K-904 sure knows how to teach a puppy a few new tricks. Owner and Certified Professional Dog Trainer Jamie Villalon Thieroff works with pups, adolescent dogs and their humans. Her oneon-one, in-home sessions tackle the realities of dog ownership, from potty training and leash manners to anxious car rides, reliable recalls and even the occasional jealous pee. Thieroff’s patient, positive approach means training is tailored to the dog in front of her, whether that’s an energetic puppy learning house rules or a nervous rescue finding its confidence. Families can even take lessons on the road, practicing those new skills on walks, at parks and in other real-world settings. Now a three-time Best in Pets category winner, K-904 proves that good manners—canine and human— can go a long way. RUNNER UP: Beaches Jet Set Pets

Once Bitten

The bad news is the Sunshine State is ideal habitat for ticks, something that is not ideal for Florida hikers, campers and pets. The good news is that removing a tick from a person or animal is relatively easy. However, put away the petroleum jelly and lit matches. Instead, Dr. Jo Myers, a vet with the pet telehealth platform Vetster, offers the following advice:

 Wash your hands and wear gloves. a clean pair of tweezers or a tick-removal  Use tool to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.

pull straight outward so the skin tents  Gently and wait for the tick to release (you may need to pull a little more if the tick isn’t letting go).

the tick bite area with soap and water,  Clean and wash your hands. If you find a tick on your pet, it’s important to remove it promptly and safely, Dr. Myers adds. Ticks don’t spread disease right away when they bite, so removing a tick as soon as you find it can help prevent the transmission of tick-borne diseases. And no matter what kind of pet you have, the steps to remove a tick are the same. “After removing the tick, avoid digging around in the bite wound, as this traumatizes the skin and increases the risk of the bite getting infected,” she says. “If attempting to remove a tick from a squirmy puppy or kitten, it may help to wrap them in a towel or blanket or have someone else hold them.”

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At Bark Avenue Pet Resort we care for your pets the same way they would be cared for at home.

DOGGONE GOOD!

Every good dog needs a reward or two. For some lucky pups, that reward may be a Barkin Biscuit treat.

All-Inclusive LUXURY PET-CARE & BOARDING

RECREATION DAY CARE DOG BOUTIQUE WEB CAM

LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS SPA SERVICES

10427 Alta Drive, Jacksonville, Florida 32226 | (904) 757-3295 www.barkavenue-petresort.com

SPECIALIZED CLEANING SERVICES

Thank you for voting us

BEST CARPET CLEANING/ODOR REMOVAL

TEAMS OF SPECIALISTS • Carpet Cleaning • Upholstery Cleaning • Tile, Stone, & Grout Cleaning

• Window Cleaning • Pressure Washing • Roof Cleaning

• Air Duct Cleaning • Dryer Vent Cleaning

Call First Coast Home Pros for a FREE ESTIMATE 904.364.2196 • firstcoasthomepros.com

72 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

Barkin’ Biscuits is a vocational training program for young adults with intellectual and developmental differences at the North Florida School of Special Education’s Transition and Postgraduate programs. It is also a nationwide supplier of all-natural dog treats that come in a variety of flavors—sweet potato, carrot and peanut butter—and incorporate fresh ingredients from the school’s Berry Good Farms. Using fresh vegetables and herbs from the garden means students involved in the horticulture training program also have a hand in creating the finished products. “I started this program when our oldest daughter Biz (Elizabeth) graduated from North Florida School of Special Education,” says Gail Wickenden, Barkin Biscuits manager. “Once she and her friends were done with school, I saw that they needed a focus and purpose. We started in a church kitchen and brought the program to the school 12 years ago.” Just like at any other bakery biz, the student chefs who create all-natural dog treats learn to follow recipes, mix ingredients, roll and cut the dough, bake the treats, weigh and package for retail market and prepare custom orders. “We now have over 70 participants (STARS) that come at least once a week. As well as filling their days, they interact with friends and volunteers, and we even have a dance party and karaoke. We are blessed to have some great supporters, including Pet Paradise, some local stores and Chick-fil-A’s, and veterinary clinics,” Wickenden says.

Chips

Domestic Longhair

PET BAKERY

INDOOR/OUTDOOR FLEA CONTROL

RUNNER UP: Woof Gang

RUNNER UP: Freedom Pest Control

Barkin Biscuits

ANNUAL PET FRIENDLY EVENT

Weenstock (Brewhound) RUNNER UP: Mutt March LOCAL ANIMAL RESCUE ORGANIZATION

Jacksonville Humane Society RUNNER UP: Fur Sisters

INVISIBLE FENCE INSTALLATION

Dog Guard

RUNNER UP: Invisible Fence CARPET/UPHOLSTERY CLEANING/ ODOR REMOVAL

First Coast Home Pros

We adore our pets, but sometimes they don’t show that same love to our carpets and furniture. Fortunately, First Coast Home Pros has been tackling the stains, smells and assorted messes our four-legged family members leave behind for nearly two decades. The local company cleans carpets and upholstery, with urine treatments aimed at those particularly stubborn reminders of Fido’s latest mishap. Their services can help revive carpets that have been well-traveled by both paws and shoes. After all, sharing the couch with man’s best friend is a lot more enjoyable when it doesn’t smell like them. RUNNER UP: Zerorez

Bug Out

PET PHOTOGRAPHER

AZ Photo Jax

What sets AZ Photo Jax apart from other pet photographers? According to Abra Zawacki, it’s all about capturing the connection between you and your furry companion rather than simply taking cute pictures of your pet. Zawacki spent seven years working with black-and-white film in the darkroom before even picking up a digital camera. Fifteen years and six consecutive Best in Pets readers’ poll wins later, she has established herself as the go-to photographer for capturing the one-of-a-kind bond between you and your pet. Zawacki earned a Master of Fine Art degree in Photography, and it shows. She brings studio lighting and natural, stress-free posing to sessions designed to let personalities — both two-legged and four-legged — come through. RUNNER UP: Jax Anna Marie Boletg

STANDARD FEED & SEED Since 1946

PET STORE & GARDEN CENTER

6 YEARS IN A ROW!

MOBILE VET CARE

FREE DELIVERY*

RUNNER UP: HelloVet

*Terms and conditions apply; please see our website for details

Sunrise Vet

FAVORITE LOCAL PET TO FOLLOW

Hazel Woof Jones

RUNNER UP: Sophia Grace u

YES, WE SELL DOG FOOD! Locally owned and doing it in the Railyard District since 1946 1236 Kings Road, Jacksonville, FL 32204 (904) 355-5575 • standardfeedandseed.com

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JACKSONVILLE MAGAZINE’S

2026

Charitable REGISTER

Highlighting 30 First Coast local nonprofit organizations, their worthy causes, fundraising events, ways to get involved and reasons they make the First Coast special.

t was nearly a quarter-century ago that Jacksonville Magazine produced its inaugural Charitable Register, a collection of area not-for-profit groups doing good in our community. The idea was simple— provide an annual resource for readers looking to support these organizations through volunteering, monetary donations, attending special events or other means. That mission continues today with the latest edition of the Charitable Register you are reading here. In addition to the print edition of the magazine, we’ll continue to highlight these organizations and their efforts online and in person in the months to come. This annual special section is produced to provide details about the participating organizations such as their respective missions, contact information and how people can contribute to their causes—whether that be attending a fundraising event, donating or pitching in to help by volunteering one’s time and effort. Any contribution is appreciated and will only help make Northeast Florida better than it is already.

Editor’s Note: Please check to confirm all information regarding events listed here. Dates are subject to change.

Beaches Fine Arts Series, Inc. CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Kathy Wallis, Executive Director ADDRESS: 1150 5th St N, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 PHONE: 904-270-1771 WEBSITE: beachesfinearts.org MISSION STATEMENT: To enrich our communities by sharing the transforming power of music and art, free to all. UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • First Coast Dancing with the Stars – September 19. Community “Stars” raise funds and learn dance routines with area dance professionals to compete for The Mirror Ball Trophy. Funds raised support the free concert and community outreach programs provided by BFAS to residents and students of Northeast Florida.

Catholic Charities CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Eileen Seuter, Regional Director ADDRESS: 6 E. Bay St., Suite 500, Jacksonville, FL 32202 PHONE: 904-354-4846 WEBSITE: CCBJax.org

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Child Cancer Fund

MISSION STATEMENT: Catholic Charities puts faith into action to serve the most vulnerable in our community, advocating for justice, human dignity and quality of life, while reflecting the compassion of God in Christ. UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Black & White Soiree – May 21

Child Cancer Fund CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Carla Montgomery, Executive Director ADDRESS: 841 Prudential Dr., Suite 1200, Jacksonville, FL 32207 PHONE: 904- 396-4223 WEBSITE: childcancerfund.org MISSION STATEMENT: Founded in 1994, Child Cancer Fund’s mission is to provide caring support to families fighting childhood cancer through practical, emotional, financial, educational, and psychosocial services. We address non-medical needs to help improve overall outcomes, ease anxieties and provide a supportive environment through this difficult time. UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • 12th Annual WOKV Care-a-thon presented by Duval Asphalt – August 21-22. Carea-thon is more than a fundraiser, it’s two unforgettable days of hope, generosity, and inspiring stories that bring our community together to support local children fighting

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cancer. Since its 2015 beginnings, it has grown to be Child Cancer Fund’s largest fundraiser, generating more than $2.4 million in critical support to families when they need it most. Learn more at wokv.com/ careathon. • Royal Palm Village Wine & Tapas Wine Festival – November 14. Join us for Royal Palm’s 15th anniversary at the Wine Festival, benefiting Child Cancer Fund. Celebrate with samplings of over 200 wines, a keepsake wine glass, music, draft beer from a local brewery, special wine retail pricing and more. Tickets on sale a month prior to the event at royalpalmwines.com/events. • 2027 Child Cancer Fund Golf Tournament – March 22, 2027. This tournament was established to raise funds and awareness for families in Northeast Florida who are fighting childhood cancer. This event brings together community and business leaders with all funds benefiting Child Cancer Fund. Registration and sponsorships available soon at childcancerfund.com/events.

Children's Home Society CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Andry Sweet, President & CEO ADDRESS: 3027 San Diego Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32207 PHONE: 904- 493-7744 WEBSITE: www.chsfl.org MISSION STATEMENT: Children's Home Society

of Florida is building bridges to success for children and creating a world where every child can realize their full potential. We believe in the strength and resilience of children and families and in the power of community to create brighter futures. CHS delivers the right services at the right time to help children and families through the most difficult times of their lives. We work to help keep more kids safe at home with their families, giving parents confidence and opportunities to build upon their strengths, empowering them to raise their children in healthy, nurturing homes. UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Caring Chefs – October 18. The 42nd Annual Caring Chefs event returns to Deerwood Castle, bringing together community leaders, partners, supporters, and Jacksonville’s finest chefs and restaurants to raise critical funds for programs supporting children and families. Guests will enjoy food and beverage tastings, auction experiences, and opportunities to connect with the mission of strengthening families and empowering children. • Evening of Taste – March 6, 2027. The event raises funds to support Children’s Home Society and children and families across Northeast Florida through early childhood services, counseling and mental health services, Community Partnership Schools, mentoring, and more. Guests will enjoy music, bites, drinks, dessert, chance drawing items, and impactful stories while supporting the organization’s mission.

of sporting clays benefiting Community PēdsCare®. Foursomes include breakfast, lunch, ammunition, a golf cart and opportunities to win raffle prizes.

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Kimberly S. Noble, George W. and Kathleen I. Gibbs Director & CEO ADDRESS: 829 Riverside Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32204 PHONE: 904-356-6857 WEBSITE: cummermuseum.org MISSION STATEMENT: To create art, garden, and learning experiences that spark discovery and well-being. UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Through the Looking Glass – May 1, 2027. Join the Cummer Museum of Arts & Gardens for a curated experience inspired by our Alice in Wonderland exhibition.

Daniel CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Lesley Wells, President/CEO ADDRESS: 4203 Southpoint Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32216 PHONE: 904-296-1055 WEBSITE: danielkids.org MISSION STATEMENT: Daniel’s mission is to improve the lives of children and families. UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • 26th Annual Hank Haynes Golf Classic – April 12, 2027

Downtown Ecumenical Services Council (DESC)

Daniel

Community Hospice Foundation CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Annie Tuttle, VP, Philanthropy & Community Impact ADDRESS: 4266 Sunbeam Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32257 PHONE NUMBER: 904-886-3883 WEB ADDRESS: Thefoundationcares.org MISSION STATEMENT: The Foundation works to ensure that the unfunded and community benefit programs and services Community Hospice provides have the funding and support needed to care for all who need it, today and into the future.

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UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Vets, Pets & Music Fest – October 24, Treasure Camp, Chiefland and November 8, Green Turtle Tavern, Fernandina Beach. Enjoy live music, silent auctions and a themed pet parade while supporting veteran patients, Pet Peace of Mind®, and music therapy programs at Community Hospice & Palliative Care. • ROARS and More – November 15. Presented by Brette Petway, this family-friendly event benefits Community PēdsCare®. Explore the new Manatee River exhibit, enjoy bites from local restaurants and experience fun activities for the whole family. • 12th Annual Walter “Chuck” Foster Sporting Clay Shoot – February 19, 2027. Join Jeff and Tera Lageman for a memorable day

CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Tina Wirth, Interim Chief Executive ADDRESS: 215 N. Ocean St., Jacksonville, FL 32202 PHONE: 904-358-3935 WEBSITE: www.descjax.org MISSION STATEMENT: We seek to proclaim the love of Jesus Christ by meeting the needs of people in emergency situations or experiencing poverty. UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • DESC Defenders – June 10, 2027

Dreams Come True CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Anna Valent, Executive Director MAILING ADDRESS: 6803 Southpoint Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32216 PHONE NUMBER: 904-296-3030 WEBSITE: DreamsComeTrue.org MISSION STATEMENT: Since 1984, Dreams Come True has been using the power of a dream to bring hope and joy to every local child battling a life-threatening medical condition. More than 5,250 dreams have been fulfilled for local children. UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • DCT5K & 1 Mile Fun Run – September 19. Lace up your shoes and come walk, run or roll with Dreams Come True to support local children battling life-threatening medical conditions. Dawn your favorite superhero costume and run alongside families impacted by Dreams Come True. Following the run/walk will be Dreamfest hosted by Chick-fil-A, a family-friendly zone filled with games and fun for the whole family. • Dreams Come True Annual Gala – January 29, 2027. Join Dreams Come True as they transport you through the wonders of their Cruise Dreams. Stroll through the various types of cruises that local children get to enjoy on their dreams. Throughout the evening, guests will be treated to little surprises and have the opportunity to connect with some of our Dreamers and their families. Food, entertainment and a live auction will be part of the evening. • Dreams Come True 8th Annual Bass Tournament – March 6, 2027. Hosted at the Palatka City Docks, the Annual Dreams Dreams Come True

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Come True Bass Tournament will include a fun day of fishing, prizes and a special weigh-in hosted by some of Dreams Come True’s dream children. First place guaranteed cash prize and payback to 1 in every 7 boats. • 26th Annual KB Home Dreams Come True Golf Tournament – April 26, 2027. Hosted at the beautiful San Jose Country Club, the Dreams Come True Annual Golf Tournament provides an unforgettable day filled with golfing excellence, heartwarming encounters with inspiring Dreamers, and the thrilling opportunity to bid on an array of exciting auction items.

ElderSource CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Linda Levin, CEO ADDRESS: 10688 Old St. Augustine Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32257 PHONE: 904-391-6600 WEBSITE: MyElderSource.org MISSION STATEMENT: ElderSource empowers people to live and age with independence and dignity in their homes and community. UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Giggles for Good – November 12

The Florida Ballet CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Lisa McLatchey, Executive Director ADDRESS: 10131 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32225 PHONE: 904-353-7518 WEBSITE: floridaballet.org MISSION STATEMENT: The mission of The Florida Ballet is to enrich and inspire the cultural landscape of our community through the education and art of classical ballet. UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • The Florida Ballet Gala – April 3, 2027. The annual Florida Ballet Gala transforms our studios into an elegant evening of dinner, dancing, live entertainment, and a silent auction. Proceeds support student scholarships and community outreach initiatives, helping make the transformative power of dance accessible throughout our community.

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Gabriel House of Care

Gabriel House of Care CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Valerie Callahan, Executive Director ADDRESS: 4599 Worrall Way, Jacksonville, FL 3222 PHONE: 904-821-8995 WEBSITE: www.gabriel houseofcare.org MISSION STATEMENT: To promote a “community of healing” environment by providing affordable, temporary lodging for adult organ transplant and cancer patients as well as their caregivers who come to Jacksonville for medical treatment. UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Fall Annual Golf Tournament – September 22 • Be an Angel " holiday campaign – November & December

Jacksonville Children's Chorus CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Darren Dailey, President and Artistic Director ADDRESS: 62 Main St. N., Jacksonville, FL 32202 PHONE: 904-353-1636 WEBSITE: www.jax childrenschorus.org MISSION STATEMENT: Jacksonville Children’s Chorus provides exceptional music education for children of diverse backgrounds, creating impactful choral performances. UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • 18th Annual The Cool Side of Yuletide Holiday Concert – December 19. Come out and enjoy various Holiday favorites and sing-alongs.

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• 24th Annual First Coast Honors Choir Festival – January 30, 2027. The annual festival honors Florida students recognized by music educators. • “All In”: A Poker Tournament to Benefit the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus – February 18, 2027. Get ready to place your bets and support music education for children in Northeast Florida! • 18th Annual Martin Luther King Jr., “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” Concert – February 27, 2027. Join The JCC and Winston-Salem State University for an inspiring event honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and commemorating Black History Month. • River City Dancing With The Stars – April 24, 2027. Local celebrities are partnered with professional ballroom instructors to learn to dance and compete to be named River City’s favorite dancer. Visit rivercitydwts.com for more information. • Songs of Hope – May 8, 2027. "Songs of Hope" is a choral event celebrating themes of hope, from childhood wonder to resilience, inspiring reflection and connection while emphasizing optimism for a brighter future.

Jacksonville Public Education Fund CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Rachael Tutwiler Fortune, President ADDRESS: 40 East Adams St., Suite 110 PHONE: 904-356-7757 WEBSITE: www.jaxpef.org MISSION STATEMENT: JPEF activates community support, connects its partners, and advances effective ideas for success of all students.

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UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • EDDY Awards – January 23, 2027. A Celebration of Duval County teachers, where we honor the Teachers of the Year and name the 2027 VyStar Duval County Teacher of the Year

Jacksonville Symphony CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER: Steven B, Libman, President & CEO ADDRESS: 300 Water St., Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32202 PHONE: 904-354-5479 WEBSITE: JaxSymphony.org MISSION STATEMENT: To enrich the human spirit through symphonic music UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Jacksonville Symphony Gala – February 27, 2027. Save the date for the 2027 Jacksonville Symphony Gala — a spectacular celebration of music, education and community impact.

The Lightner Museum CHIEF EXECUTIVE: David Bagnall, Executive Director ADDRESS: 75 King St., St. Augustine, FL 32084 PHONE: 904-824-2874 WEBSITE: lightnermuseum.org MISSION STATEMENT: To inspire curiosity, excite minds, and enrich lives through our unique collection, historic building, and dynamic exhibitions and programs.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Ceramics: Selections from the Otto C. Lightner Collection – Opens August 14. This exhibition presents a selection of ceramics from the collection of museum founder Otto C. Lightner, whose passion for collecting embraced both the refined and the everyday. The presentation reflects Lightner’s conviction that collecting was not merely an academic pursuit, but a deeply rewarding hobby—one that fostered creativity, intellectual growth, and a sense of well-being through beauty, variety, and the pleasure of comparison. • Henry Flagler's Hotel Alcazar: A Guided Tour – Every Wednesday at 11 AM through September 30. $35 per person | $15 Lightner Museum Members. General admission included. Completed in 1888, the Hotel Alcazar was commissioned by Standard Oil executive Henry Flagler. Flagler helped shape St. Augustine into a winter retreat for America’s elite, building magnificent hotels that provided visitors with modern comforts and extravagant leisure. To attract its wealthy Gilded Age clientele, the Alcazar featured an alluring combination of exotic architecture, modern amenities, sports and entertainment facilities, and fine cuisine. • FIrst Friday Art Walk – September 4, October 2. This is a free community event, guests should enter the museum through the Radzinski Garden located at the rear of the building. • Yoga in the Radzinski Garden – September 19, October 17, November 21. This is an all-levels, donation-based class. No pre-registration required, just show up. The Radzinski Garden is located at the rear of the Lightner Museum building. • 5th Annual Holiday Market – December 3. Shop for holiday gifts from a selection of local artisans and small businesses.

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Jewish Family & Community Services

The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Colleen Rodriguez, Executive Director ADDRESS: 8540 Baycenter Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 PHONE: 904- 448-1933 WEBSITE: JFCSJax.org MISSION STATEMENT: Strengthening the entire Northeast Florida Community by providing support services in the Jewish tradition of helping people help themselves. UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Annual Spring Fundraiser – April 2027

Lutheran Social Services CHIEF EXECUTIVE: David Clark, President & CEO ADDRESS: 4615 Philips Hwy., Jacksonville, FL 32207 PHONE: 904-448-5995 WEBSITE: www.lssjax.org MISSION STATEMENT: "Motivated and guided by the compassion of Christ; we serve and care for people in need." UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Two Piano Journey – October 24. Two Piano Journey is a benefit concert featuring mother-and-son pianists Michelle and Chris Kuo, with proceeds supporting programs that help individuals and families find stability and hope.

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River Garden Senior Services

MOCA Jacksonville ADDRESS: 333 North Laura St., Jacksonville, FL 32202 PHONE: 904-620-1214

by providing the essential missing elements to accelerate the growth of STEM2 education and careers.

River Garden Senior Services

WEBSITE: mocajacksonville.unf.edu

CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Mauri Mizrahi

MISSION STATEMENT: To promote the discovery, knowledge, and advancement of the art, artists, and ideas of our time.

ADDRESS: 11401 Old St. Augustine Rd., Jacksonville, F 32258

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • The Collector’s Closet: Fashion for the Future of Art - April 1, 2027. Join us for an elevated luncheon and auction experience featuring champagne, live music, a silent auction, and an immersive fashion presentation transforming the museum into a living gallery of style. Proceeds support MOCA Jacksonville's exhibitions, educational initiatives, and community engagement programs.

PHONE: 904-260-1818

Northeast Florida STEM2 Hub CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Dr. Kathleen Schofield, Executive Director ADDRESS: 2026 Pond Ridge Ct., Unit 705, Fleming Island FL 32003 PHONE: 904-502-0958 WEBSITE: stem2hub.org MISSION STATEMENT: We convene, inspire, and invest in the STEM2 field

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WEBSITE: www.rivergarden.org MISSION STATEMENT: To provide a wide range of quality senior care services in residential, outpatient and community-based settings. To create a comfortable and dignified home for seniors, serving all in our care with excellence regardless of financial resources. To serve people of all faiths, while maintaining an environment supportive of Jewish identity and informed by Jewish values. To act as a valuable senior services resource for the entire community.

Safe Families for Children CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Bethany Forbes, Chapter Director PHONE: 904-257-5176 WEBSITE: www. safe-families.org (national) www.safefamiliesflorida.org (Florida) MISSION STATEMENT: Safe Families for Children hosts vulnerable children and creates family-like support to isolated families through a community of devoted volunteers committed to keeping children safe and families together.

St. Augustine Art Association CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Jennifer Flynt, Executive Director ADDRESS: 22 Marine St., St. Augustine, FL 32084

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • 34th River Garden Foundation Gala – November 21. This is an elegant community event that raises significant support for River Garden and has become known as a premier event in Jacksonville.

WEBSITE: www.staaa.org

• 31st River Garden Classic – April 12, 2027. This event is a fundraising tradition that brings together board members, corporate sponsors and friends of River Garden for a great day on the greens.

MISSION STATEMENT: The St. Augustine Art Association is dedicated to promoting artistic excellence through exhibitions, educational programs, and outreach; to fostering a creative and accessible environment for artists of

PHONE: 904-824-2310

all backgrounds and skill levels; to guiding the advancement of art in partnership with the community; and to preserving our rich artistic heritage. UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Fall Members Show – September 4-27. This bi-annual exhibit of STAAA members features a variety of works by emerging, seasoned, and professional artists. The artworks encompass a variety of styles, mediums, and subjects.

Trinity Christian Academy: CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Gary Judd, Executive Director ADDRESS: 622 West Union St., Jacksonville, FL 32202 PHONE: 904- 355-1205 WEBSITE: TrinityRescue.org MISSION STATEMENT: Ending the cycle of homelessness for men, women, and especially children across Northeast Florida. UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Trinity Rescue Mission's 15th Annual Out-Shoot Hunger Sporting Clay Shoot – November 20. Every dollar raised helps fund meals, shelter, and recovery services for men, women, and children experiencing homelessness in Northeast Florida.

St. Augustine Art Association

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United Way

United Way CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Melanie Patz, President and CEO ADDRESS: 550 Water St., Suite 5, Jacksonville, FL 32202 PHONE: 904-390-3200 WEBSITE: unitedwaynefl.org MISSION STATEMENT: To solve our community’s toughest challenges by connecting people, resources and ideas.

GOGH CREATE

Watercolor on Tile

Myrtle Ave.: September 17, 6:30-8:30 PM

Spruce: September 28, 6:00-8:00 PM

Engine 15: September 21, 6:30-8:30 PM

Lazy Manatee: October 6, 6:30-8:30 PM

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Atlantic Circle's Cocktails and Conversations – September 10. United Way's signature networking event for young professionals. • Holiday Gift and Food Drive – OctoberDecember. Opportunities to help local families during the holiday season. • Holiday Happy Hour - November/ December. Celebrating the holiday season with food, music and fun. • MLK Day of Service – January 16, 2027. Annual day of service uplifting the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. • Champions of Change – February 25, 2027. United Way’s annual ceremony recognizing leading local changemakers. • Women United's Up Close and Personal – Spring 2027. A signature networking event for women leaders. • Day of Action – June 17, 2027. An annual day of service celebrating summer volunteerism at various locations.

The Women's Board CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Christine Hieb, President

Tickets on sale now at 904TIX.COM

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ADDRESS: 1325 San Marco Blvd., #802, Jacksonville, FL 32207

PHONE: 904-202-2886 WEBSITE: womensboardwch.com MISSION STATEMENT: The Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital is a group of committed, philanthropic-hearted volunteers dedicated to raising funds and awareness for Wolfson Children’s Hospital. UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: FLORIDA FORUM SPEAKER SERIES

• Venus Williams – October 12, Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts. Venus Williams is a tennis champion, entrepreneur and advocate whose achievements include seven Grand Slam singles titles, five Wimbledon championships and four Olympic gold medals. Beyond sports, she leads ventures in design and wellness, authors wellness content and champions equality, helping advance equal pay and opportunities for women in sports. • Mike Massimino – February 2, 2027, Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts. Mike Massimino is a former NASA astronaut, engineer, professor and bestselling author. After overcoming multiple rejections to join NASA, he flew two space shuttle missions to service the Hubble Space Telescope and became the first person to tweet from space. Today, he teaches engineering at Columbia University, promotes STEM education and shares lessons on leadership, teamwork and perseverance through his books, media appearances and keynote presentations. • David Axelrod & Karl Rove – April 7, 2027, Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts. David Axelrod and Karl Rove are two of the most influential political strategists in modern American history. Axelrod served as chief strategist and senior advisor to President Barack Obama, while Rove was senior advisor and deputy chief of staff to President George W. Bush. Together, they offer unique perspectives from both sides of the political spectrum on leadership, communication and public service. FIRST COAST DESIGN SHOW – DECEMBER 3-6

For fifty years, The Women’s Board has championed strategic fundraising for Wolfson Children’s Hospital, making a lasting difference in children’s lives across Florida’s first coast and the entire southeast. This year’s First Coast Design Show is a celebration of five decades of generosity, creativity and community— bringing together a curated collection of antiques, fine art, and distinctive treasures from renowned exhibitors and featuring dialogues with some of the nation’s top interior designers. From December 3rd through 6th, the show will once again gather nationally recognized designers and exceptional art and antique dealers for a weekend of shopping, beauty, and artistry to support the incredible, life-saving work of Wolfson Children's Hospital. u

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Wish

LIST

Dreams Come True

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PERATING A NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION OF ANY KIND IS NEVER EASY. In fact, it usually means always striving for more... more volunteer help, more donations, more success stories and accomplishments. As we have done for several years, Jacksonville Magazine asked the Charitable Registers participating organizations to share one “wish” they have for the remainder of 2026, whether it be a material donation or some other contribution that will help them fulfill the mission about which the organization was founded. Posted here are some of those wishes. Perhaps you, your family, civic group or business could help grant one or more this year.

Beaches Fine Arts Series, Inc.

We invite businesses of Northeast Florida to consider supporting our free concert series and free community outreach programs, both of which do so much for our communities.

Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities Jacksonville is always in need of items for Camp I Am Special, which serves people with intellectual and developmental differences as well as for our food pantry. Please see our amazon wish lists and consider purchasing items off one of them to help: https://bit.ly/CCJAXfood or https://bit.ly/ CCJAXcamp

Children’s Home Society

Children’s Home Society of Florida invites community support through donations of critical everyday items for children and families in need. Our greatest needs include diapers, formula, personal hygiene items such as deodorant, soap, shampoo, toothpaste, feminine hygiene kits, as well as backpacks, school supplies, and new clothing and shoes for youth from infancy through age 18. These contributions help ensure children have the resources they need to be healthy, confident, and ready to thrive at home, in school, and in their communities. Find the wish lists on our website: https://chsfl.org/ways-to-give/give-in-kind/

Community Hospice Foundation

The Foundation of Community Hospice & Palliative Care would love for you to help make a child’s holiday wishes come true. Through our “Adopt a Child’s Wish List” holiday drive, you can shop for a child in our Community PēdsCare® program and bring joy, comfort,

Child Cancer Fund

After 31 years of exclusively serving Northeast Florida’s cancer-fighting families, our wish remains the same: to bring comfort to families and children as they face this difficult journey. You can help by becoming a community partner, volunteering or attending the Wine Festival at Royal Palm Village Wine & Tapas November 14, or by making a purchase from our Amazon wish list at https://a.co/7PlA6dH.

and a little holiday magic to a family who needs it most. Your thoughtful gift can make their holiday season truly unforgettable. If you’re Interested in adopting a wish list, email foundation@ communityhospice.com to learn more and make a child’s holiday wish come true.

Cummer Museum

Our wish is for everyone in Jacksonville to find their way to the Cummer Museum. If you’ve been before, come back; we’re always changing, growing and giving you new reasons to explore. If you’ve never been to the Cummer Museum, make this the year you finally visit. And if you already love the Cummer Museum, we hope you’ll deepen your connection by becoming a Museum Member. From kids to seniors and everyone in between, the Cummer Museum is where you’ll find moments of connection and memories to keep forever. Art, gardens, learning, events, and plenty of inspiration are waiting at cummermuseum.org.

DOWNTOWN ECUMENICAL SERVICES COUNCIL (DESC) DESC’s wish is for a time when families in poverty can breathe easier knowing food is accessible, rent is manageable, and basic needs are within reach. We welcome gifts of food, clothing, and toiletry kits to help brighten the holidays for our clients. Special collections of new socks and underwear are welcome year-round. May our city be known for being a place of compassion and generosity.

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THE LIGHTNER MUSEUM We would love individuals and families to support the Lightner Museum by becoming members. Membership supports everything we do at the museum, from exciting new exhibitions and engaging programs to the preservation of our historic building and collections.

Daniel

Daniel’s wish is for corporate and individual donations that will help us continue to transform our residential treatment campus on Belfort Road so that we can provide a warm and uplifting environment where our kids can heal and begin building more promising tomorrows.

Dreams Come True

Dreams Come True’s vision is to ensure that every local child battling a life-threatening medical condition on the First Coast is given the gift of a dream and provided extra hope and joy during the moments in between their journey. Entering the holiday season, Dreams Come True is looking for individuals and businesses to help with toy and food donations/drives during the holiday season, which will impact over 300 dream families. New toys for children ages infant to 18 is appreciated and will be used to stock the Dreams Come True Holiday Toy Shop. Additionally, financial contributions are always appreciated as dreams do not stop.

ElderSource

Support for seniors facing an unexpected financial crisis and for those experiencing food insecurity.

The Florida Ballet

The Florida Ballet’s wish is to share the beauty and transformative power of ballet with even more people throughout Northeast Florida. You can help make that possible by attending a ballet performance and bringing a friend, or by supporting one of our priority needs through a gift to the Pointe Shoe Fund, Live Music Fund, or Student Scholarship Fund. Every contribution helps The Florida Ballet inspire, educate, and uplift our community through the art of dance. Visit floridaballet.org to learn more and make a difference.

Gabriel House of Care

As we approach the Giving Season, our focus is to always to expand our exposure throughout Northeast Florida, introducing people to Gabriel House of Care and our

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“Community of Healing” work with organ transplant and cancer patients and caregivers. These months are full of groups making dinners here, with our golf tournament, and with the holiday events. It’s a great time of year to be a part of such meaningful work and giving to people who have had to leave their homes and support system to come for critical medical care.

Jacksonville Children’s Chorus

After receiving a generous $250,000 gift from the Warren and Augusta Hume Foundation to our recently launched Endowment Fund, our greatest wish is to raise $1.5 million over the next

Jacksonville Symphony The 2026/27 Season marks a triumphant new chapter as we welcome you back to a transformed Jacoby Symphony Hall. Following months of renovation, our 77th Season celebrates this milestone with extraordinary classical performances, beloved family traditions and music from all genres that you’ll remember for years to come. This season, our wish is to strengthen our connection with longtime patrons while inviting new faces to discover the magic of live symphonic music.

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The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services

Our wish for the coming year is to build strong community partnerships, allowing us to extend our programs and reach more children, families and individuals in need. These programs include Child Welfare Services, Counseling and Mental Health Services, Senior Services, Emergency Financial Assistance and the Max Block Food Pantry, and Holocaust Survivor Services. By addressing these critical areas, we not only empower individuals and families but also strengthen the entire Northeast Florida community together.

Lutheran Social Servi es of Northeast Florida

Our wish is for a community where no one faces hunger alone, every refugee finds a welcoming home, every family regains stability and every person in need is treated with dignity and compassion. We wish for financial support, pantry staples, hygiene items, household essentials, volunteers and community partners who help bring hope to life.

MOCA Jacksonville

Safe Families for Children Our wish for Safe Families Northeast Florida is to continue building a community where families facing crisis are met with compassion, connection, and practical support. We hope to expand our network of Host Families, Family Friends, and Family Coaches so more parents have someone to call in moments of need and more children can remain safe within their own families. As we deepen partnerships with local churches, businesses, and community leaders, our vision is to see Northeast Florida become a place where social isolation is replaced with belonging and where families are strengthened through radical hospitality and intentional care. With increased volunteer engagement and sustainable funding, we can serve more families, prevent unnecessary foster care placements, and help create a future where every child in our region grows up surrounded by a supportive community.

Visit the museum. Tell your friends how much you enjoyed it. Help us share the art, artists, and ideas of our time with more people in our community. The museum is open TuesdayFriday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and we offer free admission weekly during Vystar Free Saturdays at MOCA and during 1st & 3rd Wednesday Museum Nights.

Northeast Florida STEM2 Hub

One robot can unlock endless possibilities.“I never would have known what I would have done if I never joined robotics in elementary school.” -Sage, now on her way to MIT. That is the power of giving a student the opportunity. A robot for a robotics team can give the next Sage that same opportunity. With the chance to design, build, program and compete, students aren’t just learning about STEM—they’re discovering what they are capable of. Contact kathleen@stem2hub.org or visit us at stem2hub.org/ways-to-give/

River Garden Senior Services

Our wish is that every member of our community feels inspired and connected to River Garden and its mission to serve older adults with excellence. Supporters can help by donating, volunteering or sharing our story with others.

St. Augustine Art Association year. This investment will help ensure the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus remains an anchor for exceptional music education, providing children in our community with a place to learn, grow, and share their voices—now and for generations to come. With this vision, we can inspire generations of young singers to find their voices, discover their potential, and carry the power of music forward into the future.

Jacksonville Public Education Fund

Our wish is for every Duval County student to be ready for college, career, citizenship and life, and we need the community’s help to make it happen. Nominate a voice that should be heard or sponsor ONE x ONE 2.0 to help shape the future of public education in Jacksonville.

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The St. Augustine Art Association is always looking to build relationships and partnerships that elevate our artists and promote creative endeavors within the community. From exhibit sponsorships, plein air locations, to pop-up exhibits, there are many ways to incorporate art into the community every day.

Trinity Rescue Mission

For a list of our current needs, please visit https://trinityrescue. org/donate/food-clothing/

United Way of Northeast Florida

Our wish is simple but bold: to ensure everyone has the hope and opportunities they need to thrive. With a gift to United Way, you can fuel life-changing initiatives that support financial security, youth opportunity and a health community. Donate today: unitedwaynefl.org/give u

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More Than Meets the Eye Though very traditional in many ways, the interior of one Ponte Vedra residence sneaks in a surprise or two. PHOTOS BY MURIEL SILVA PHOTOGRAPHY

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ne of the first things I learned about the homeowners was how much they love the darker, rich wood tones. So I knew pretty early on that I wanted to bring that into the house in a significant way,” says Terra Kerley, principal interior designer for Luxe Interior Design. “When we started working through the cabinetry, we decided to use the Anigre stain on the kitchen island and wet bar. It really brings that beautiful wood tone into the foreground, while the lighter neutral cabinetry becomes more of a backdrop. Then we added the French gold plumbing fixtures and hardware, which give the kitchen just that little touch of formality and elegance.” The home to which she refers belongs to Nick and Kristin Doyle and their two sons, Teddy and Joseph. The Ponte Vedra residence, covering approximately 5,800 square feet with five bedrooms and six baths, received its finishing touches in the spring of 2025 Upon entering the foyer, guests are greeted by a grand two-story entrance. On the left is a graceful curved staircase. To the right, the formal dining room awaits. Straight ahead is the living room, offering views all the way through to the covered porch and pool beyond. The living room opens directly into the kitchen and breakfast room, making the area the true heart of the home. Tucked between a back corner of the living room and the kitchen is a wet bar, providing an ideal spot for drinks when entertaining. The boys’ playroom is right off the breakfast room, so they can have their own space but still be connected to everything that’s going on. As is the case with most homes, the kitchen is one of the stars of the show. That being the case, extra attention to the details was paid here. For example, the hood is integrated into the cabinetry, so it has more of a tailored, furniture-like

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finishes that have a sense of age to them. The goal was to have the rooms to feel collected over time rather than as if everything was purchased at once. “The buffet in the dining room is actually a piece I had custom made specifically for that space. And, of course, we stained it in one of their favorite rich wood tones,” says Kerley.

appearance rather than feeling like a separate element. The upper cabinets stretch all the way to the ceiling, which gives them a more substantial presence. Even the pantry doors are incorporated into the cabinetry, so everything feels seamless. On the island, a double-thick countertop was finished with an ogee edge. “It’s a small detail, but it gives the island a much grander, more traditional feel,” says Kerley. “We also paneled the refrigerator and freezer so those larger appliances blend into the cabinetry rather than becoming the focus of the room.” A traditional “mud” room is something of an unusual feature in most Northeast Florida homes, though typically a fixture in colder climates. Here, the space was incorporated as more of a “sand” room. “Using tile in the mudroom was a really practical choice,” says the designer. “More importantly, we wanted the space to be large enough for the whole family to come in at the same time, sit down, take off shoes, drop bags and unload everything without everyone feeling like they’re on top of each other. It’s a hardworking room, but vital to the function of the home.” Most of the furnishings are new, though a few standout pieces were found at antique shops and refurbished. Many of the new pieces were intentionally chosen because of their traditional silhouettes and

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For the floor, amber-brown wood was selected because it adds warmth and character. The medium tone works beautifully with the darker woods without making the house feel too heavy, says the designer. Also, they also pair well with all of the softer neutral upholstery and rugs throughout the home. “Upstairs we did a textured carpet in the bedrooms. This was chosen intentionally to give the young children a soft surface on which to play and crawl around.” “The foyer is definitely one of my favorite spaces because it immediately sets the tone for the rest of the house,” says Kerley. “You have this sweeping curved staircase, classic and elegant, and then the wall trim detail draws your eye all the way up into that two-story space. “And, surprisingly, the breakfast room is also high on my list,” she continues. “There’s this sweet lattice-patterned Thibaut wallpaper on the walls that gives the room so much character and texture. You don’t really see it in the photos, unfortunately, but it’s such a pretty detail in person. The natural light in that room is also incredible. It’s one of those spaces that just draws you in—and Kristin’s plants seem to agree because they’re very happy basking in the sun by the windows." Very early in the planning process, Kristin mentioned a desire to have porch swings. She really wanted a place where she could sit back, relax and watch the kids play. Because this request was known from the beginning, extra support for the swings was planned during construction. In the end, two porch swings were installed. One rests on the front porch overlooking the circular driveway while another is found on the back porch looking toward the kids’ playset.

"We kept the overall tones of the house soft using neutrals throughout and then layering in a muted range of colors. I think that combination keeps everything feeling warm, comfortable and inviting, while still giving each room its own personality." — TERRA KERLEY

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Among Nick’s must-haves was a billiard table. However, finding a place was for it was a challenge. Putting it upstairs near the boys’ bedrooms wasn’t ideal, so other options were needed. And one was found, one that hides in plain sight. The dining room table has a removable top, converting the formal space into one suitable for a game of eightball. “I love that because it gives a room that might otherwise only get used occasionally a completely different purpose. Conveniently, it’s right near the wet bar—which certainly is a plus,” says Kerley. “The pool bath is probably one of the biggest surprises in the house because that’s where we really turned up the color and had a little more fun. Kristin wanted it to feel different since it opens directly to the pool, but there’s also a personal story behind the wallpaper,” Kerley continues. “Her late grandmother’s favorite bird was the black egret, so the pattern has a sentimental connection for her. We balanced that bold wallpaper with white painted wainscoting and a marble-esque porcelain tile, which contrasts with the dramatic pattern and lightens the room.”

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Reflecting back on the finished project, the designer says one of her favorite things about the house is how personal it feels, specifically the little details throughout that really speak to the homeowners and their interests. “They love antiques, and they enjoy hunting and fishing, so a lot of the artwork and accessories either came from their own collection or were pieces we found in local antique shops,” she says. “Those are the things I think really make a house feel like a home. You can design a beautiful space, but when you layer in pieces that actually mean something to the people who live there, it becomes an extension of who they are.” u

SOURCES Construction: Collins Builders Cabinets & Appliances: First Coast Supply Flooring: Hallmark engineered hardwood Kitchen Countertops: Daltile Patriotic Calacatta Bathrooms & Laundry Countertops: Cambria Plumbing Fixtures: Kohler

HOME DESIGN QUARTERLY

Serenity Now HOW TO CREATE SUBTLY SERENE SPACES AT HOME BY RYAN McDONOUGH

can invite into your home, the brighter and more inviting your home will feel. Choose Calming Soothing Colors. Avoid using overly bright and bold hues, as these can be too overstimulating and may become overwhelming. Instead, you want to choose calming shades such as grey, white, or blue. When choosing patterns and style elements, consider natural stylings such as rattan and materials such as stone, marble, and wood. Declutter Your Space. A cluttered room is going to evoke the opposite of a peaceful and relaxing environment. With that in mind, it's time to take a look around your home and find things that you no longer want or use. Get rid of anything that doesn't bring joy, and then organize. Add Some Cozy Elements. If you want to feel relaxed and comfortable in your home, then cozy elements are must-haves. Whether it’s throw pillows, blankets, or fluffy rugs, be sure to stock up. Any spot that you use for lounging or reclining in the home should have a comfortable, soft throw for you to curl up in. The cozier your home feels, the easier it will be for you to relax and take care of yourself. Purchase Fresh Bath Towels. If your current towels are quite rough or old, consider investing in some new, soft towels. Go for extra-large bath sheets for the ultimate luxurious experience. The larger the towel, the more comfortable it is. You want to be able to wrap yourself up in your towel completely.

ctober 10th is World Mental Health Day, and what better way to honor the occasion than by creating mentally calming interiors at home? It’s easier and less taxing on one’s mind than you may believe. In fact, here’s a short list of ideas to transform your home into a sanctuary for self-care. From candles to plants to decluttering, improving your living spaces, as well as your mood and health, is a breeze. Create a Beautiful, Welcoming Entryway. When you enter your home, you want to feel like you’re entering a welcoming, and safe space. If the entrance to your home is cluttered and chaotic, you’re instantly going to feel anxious and stressed. Take a look at your entrance hall to see if there is anything you can do to make it feel more welcoming. Consider adding some fresh flowers to the space, a cosy rug or runner, and invest in some handy storage solutions to ensure the space remains tidy at all times.

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Make Use of Candles. Candles work well in every room of the home. They help to add a warm glow, as well as a beautiful scent and calming feeling. Choose simple white candles for the least amount of visual clutter and opt for soothing scents such as vanilla, rose, and lavender. Add Some Fresh Flowers and Living Plants. Adding flowers to your home can have a huge visual and aromatic impact. In addition, having live plants in the home has been proven to improve mental health and well-being. Some plants are brilliant at removing allergens from the air, helping to improve your physical health. Clean Your Windows. Keeping your windows clean is very important, and not just because they look much better that way. Natural light is one of the most important things, if you want to make your home feel more like a gorgeous sanctuary. The more natural light you

Choose The Right Showerhead. If you prefer a shower over a bath, it’s important to choose the right showerhead. Changing this fixture can completely elevate your entire showering experience. Consider a massage showerhead for the ultimate spa-like experience. Alternatively, choose a rainfall shower if you’re looking for a relaxing and luxurious experience.

Add Natural Elements To Your Décor. Natural elements can help you feel more in tune with the world and your surroundings. Things like stone, marble, plants, wood, and anything else natural can improve your home décor and make your interiors much more aesthetically pleasing. There are many ways in which you can add natural elements to your home. Whether it's a natural stone floor, marble countertops, or real wooden furniture, the options are limitless.

Falling in Love

Creating a calm and nurturing home environment is one of the most powerful ways to support your mental well-being—not just on World Mental Health Day, but every day. By making small, thoughtful changes such as introducing natural light, soft textures, soothing colors, and elements from nature, you can transform your space into a personal retreat that promotes relaxation and balance. Remember, your home should be a reflection of peace and comfort, a place where you can recharge, reset, and truly feel at ease. u

Road Trip At the turn of the twentieth century, a surge in optimism inspired artists and designers to rethink the visual language of modern life, and artists responded to this era of rapid change with bold new ideas and the rise of styles such as Arts & Crafts, Art Nouveau, Art Deco and Modernism. The death of Queen Victoria in 1901 closed the then-longest reign in British history and symbolically marked the end of an era. The decades that followed brought profound challenges and transformations. Social and political tensions destabilized nations and helped set the stage for world war. It’s this period that is the focus of a new exhibition at the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art in Winter Park. “Revolt in the Parlor: Escaping Victorian Taste,” opening October 13, traces the evolving currents of art and design from 1890 to 1959, illustrating the period with some 250 objects in three galleries that reveal how artists reacted to a rapidly changing world over six decades. u

BY NATALIE WELLS

If considering a pool for your home, autumn is the season to start preparing. For homeowners thinking about building a pool, fall is arguably the best times to get started. Waiting until spring to begin planning can mean spending part of the season watching construction instead of swimming. Starting in the cooler months allows time for design, engineering, permitting, material selections and construction before Northeast Florida heats up again. Along the First Coast, the backyard has always been an extension of the home. It’s where we cool off, entertain friends, grill dinner and spend long evenings. Today’s homeowners, however, are looking beyond the traditional rectangle of blue water. Pools are now being designed as complete outdoor living spaces that feel like a natural extension of the home. One trend that has remained popular for years is the move toward clean, architectural pool designs. Straight lines, oversized coping, raised walls and thoughtfully placed water features can make even a simple pool feel special. Materials are getting more interesting as well. Natural stone, marble, travertine and porcelain pavers are being paired with colorful waterline tiles and rich pebble finishes, giving homeowners plenty of ways to create a space that feels uniquely their own. Fire and water bowls have also become a popular way to add a little drama to the backyard. During the day, water spilling from the bowls adds movement and sound. At night, the flames reflect across the water, giving the pool a completely different feel and making the feature just as beautiful after sunset. The focus on evenings extends to outdoor lighting as well. Rather than simply adding a few pool lights, homeowners are choosing softer, layered lighting around landscaping, steps, raised walls and seating areas. The goal is not to light up the backyard like a football field. It’s to create a warm, inviting atmosphere while highlighting the details that make the space beautiful. Outdoor kitchens, cabanas, pergolas and sunken seating areas are increasingly becoming part of the overall backyard pool design. The pool may still be the centerpiece, but today’s backyards are being planned as complete spaces where family and friends can swim, cook, relax and spend time together. u JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

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HOME DESIGN QUARTERLY

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Animal Instincts JUST IN TIME FOR JAGUARS SEASON, ANIMAL PRINTS RETURN INTERIORS TO THE WILD SIDE. Stripes and spots step back into the spotlight and leopard remains a favorite, but zebra, tiger (and softer patterns like cow and deer) are all broadening the animal print look. Appearing across everything from soft furnishings and lighting to accessories and outerwear, these familiar prints are being mixed and layered in ways that feel bolder, more polished and surprisingly versatile.

1. The Luxury Velvet Zebra Pattern Scatter Cushion by Juliettes Interiors ($117) is a blend of modern design and timeless elegance. Its soft, tactile velvet finish adds a touch of sophistication, while the bold zebra pattern reflects one’s confident style. The perfect accent to complement an interior needed visual pizzaz.

2. Wrap yourself in a soft flower petal and revel in the fluidity of graceful lines gently curving around your body with the Bloom chair by Covet House. A fresh take on femininity, the Bloom was inspired by the tenderness of the Calla Lily.

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3. Moving away from Yililo’s original printed rug, the electric yellow leopard print wool rug runners ($260) are hand-tufted in 100% New Zealand wool by artisans in India. This is ultimate dopamine decor— thicker, softer, and more vibrant than ever before. It's not just a rug; it's a statement piece for a home.

4. Add a splash of color and character to your home with our Hot Pink Leopard Print lampshade in velvet. By Bean and Bemble ($101), the shade is a bold and playful addition to any room. Featuring a kitsch leopard print in tan and black set against a vivid fuchsia pink background, this design is perfect for anyone looking to add a fierce pop of color to their space. 5. You got the moves like jaguar? Adorn your walls with this print wallpaper mural, custom-made to add a wild side to any wall. Every wallpaper mural produced by Wallsauce ($5.20 per square foot) is printed on demand to provided wall dimensions, making each truly unique. u

Sticky Situation YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE ON HOW TO REMOVE WALLPAPER LIKE A PRO BY PAT GILHAM

STEP-BY-STEP REMOVAL GUIDE

emoving old wallpaper can feel like a daunting task, but it is highly recommended before adding new paper or painting over the wall. It will keep the new area looking polished and tidy, allow you to effectively deal with any underlying issues on the drywall, and even increase your home’s value. Fortunately, this job can be relatively simple so long as you understand the type of wallpaper that you are working with.

Step 1 - Prep the Area. To get your room ready for scoring and spraying wallpaper, move all furniture to the centre and cover it with a large cloth for protection. Turn the power off to any circuits located on the wall and place large, strong tape over power sockets and switches.

Before you begin and to avoid mistakes further down the line, it is important to identify the type of wallpaper that you have. Here are four common types of wallpaper and the best methods for removing them. • Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper: Often also called removable wallpaper, this is the easiest type of wallpaper to remove. In most cases, it can simply be pulled away from the wall without any prior prep work. • Traditional Wallpaper: Traditional paper is fastened to the wall with adhesive. To remove it, you must score (make cuts in) the surface to allow a liquid wallpaper stripper or alternative natural solution to penetrate the paper and release the adhesive. • Vinyl Wallpaper: This is a wallpaper with a vinyl facing that is designed to make it more durable and washable. Unfortunately, this added durability also makes it trickier to remove. Use the same method as for tradition-

al wallpaper, making deeper cuts to penetrate the vinyl face. • Peelable Wallpaper: Rather than sharing a similarity to peel-and-stick, this type of wallpaper is much like traditional wallpaper but features two layers that can be separated upon removal. The front, visible layer can be pulled from the backing, which is adhered to the wall. Once removed, the backing can be sprayed or soaked for removal without the need for scoring.

Additional Tips Allow Ample Soaking Time. Give time for your wallpaper removal solution to thoroughly soak the paper for several minutes before you attempt to remove it. If necessary, repeat the spraying and soaking process, as this will make removing the paper much easier. Use Steam if Necessary. Steaming can be useful in certain situations, such as when it comes to stubborn wallpaper adhesive that won't release. The intense heat of the steam will soften the adhesive, making it easier to remove the wallpaper. Split the Paper if Possible. Before taking the time to score your wallpaper, check to see if it is peelable. To do this, gently slide a razor blade into the corner and try to separate the layers. If the front peels from the backing, you can easily spray the backing without having to score the tougher front. Avoid Commercial Strippers. While commercial wallpaper strippers are widely available, they can be messy and sometimes stain surfaces (especially the tinted ones). Hot water and vinegar solutions can work just as well for loosening wallpaper glue Don’t Paint Over. Painting over wallpaper is generally not recommended, so it is always best to remove it first.

Step 2 – Peel or Score the Wallpaper. Check to see if your wallpaper is peelable, and if so, carefully peel away the top layer to leave just the backing. If not, you will need to use a wallpaper scoring tool to score the entire surface. Roll the tool repeatedly over the wall to allow the scoring wheels to make small holes in the paper, not the walls. Step 3 – Spray the Wallpaper. Spray the scored wallpaper with a liquid wallpaper stripper or a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and hot water. Wallpaper stripping agents can cause damage to delicate trim, skirting boards, and coving, so cover these surfaces before spraying them. Step 4 – Let the Solution Soak. Let the solution you have applied soak and penetrate the paper—aim for around 15 to 20 minutes. Step 5 – Test the Wallpaper. After giving the wallpaper time to soak, use a small scraper to lift a corner. If it lifts off cleanly and easily, continue peeling the rest. If you meet a lot of resistance, repeat the process as needed. Step 6 - Remove the Wallpaper. Remove all of the wallpaper, pulling gently to encourage it to peel away from the wall in large pieces rather than small strips. Step 7 - Scrape Away Residue. After removing paper, your wall may be left with adhesive residue or pieces of wallpaper backing. You may be able to easily scrape these away with a putty knife. u

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

GUIDE to the GUIDE: B–Breakfast; L–Lunch; D–Dinner; SB–Sunday Brunch $–$10 or less; $$–$11 to $20; $$$–$21 to $30; $$$$–$31 or above These $ categories are based on the average cost of a dinner entrée excluding drinks, desserts and/or gratuities. NOTE: Some restaurant entrée prices do not include à la carte sides or salad. All phone numbers are in the (904) area code. Cafeterias, fast food joints and primarily take-out restaurants are not eligible for inclusion.

Casa Reina

Alhambra Theatre & Dining

Alhambra serves up dinner and a show inside its performance hall. Formerly a buffet service, the Alhambra is becoming known as much for its culinary experience as it is for its Broadway-caliber productions. The nation’s oldest continuously operating dinner theater showcases famous plays such as Meet Me in St. Louis, October 1-November 8, and Christmas Carole, November 19-December 24. 12000 Beach Blvd., Southside (641-1212; alhambrajax.com). L, D, SB, $$$.

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Al’s Pizza

This home-grown string of pizza joints offers a wide selection of appetizers and New York-style pizza, alongside traditional Italian dishes, Al’s menu includes unexpected items like mussels in wine and garlic butter sauce to satisfy the adventurous foodies out there. They also offer delivery for those in the area of their restaurants. Three locations including 8060 Philips Hwy., Southside (731-4300; alspizza.com), L, D, $.

Aqua Grill

Aqua Grill has a contemporary, eclectic menu with a coastal flair

made from local ingredients. The Ponte Vedra eatery is known for its top-of-the line service and has been featured on both Jax Mag’s Top 50 Restaurants and Best in Jax lists for many years. 395 Front St., Ponte Vedra Beach (285-3017; aquagrill.net). L, D, $$$.

Argyle

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

bb’s Restaurant & Bar

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

The Bearded Pig

A pair of casual barbecue spots (complete with an oversized chalkboard wall for kids and plenty

of TVs) serves turkey, chicken, brisket, pulled pork and the like, counter-style. Owners Chad Munsey and Michael Schmidt both have fine dining backgrounds, so even the standard fare is a bit more grown up than what you might expect at a “Q” joint. And though it’s a meat-fest, there’s truly something for everyone: all of the sides (slaw, collards, macn-cheese) are vegetarian. 1224 Kings Ave., San Marco (619-2247); thebearded pigbbq.com. L, D $$.

Biscottis

Cir., St. Augustine (295-3847; casareinastaug.com). L, D, $$.

ChopHouse Thirteen

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

City Grille & Raw Bar

Welcome arrival to the San Marco area dining scene featuring an upscale setting and a menu laden with seafood, steak and seasonal specialties, as well as an extensive wine list with labels from around the globe. 1314 Prudential Dr.,

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

Southbank (398-8989, citygrillerawbar.com). L, D, $$

Ave., Avondale (387-2060; biscottis. net). B, L, D, SB, $$.

Coastal Wine & Tapas

Blue Bamboo

This restaurant serves hip, Asian cuisine with a wine lounge and patio dining. Menu items include miso-marinated salmon, Cantonese orange duck, Ahi tuna salad and Mandarin orange cake. 10110 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin (6461478; bluebamboojacksonville. com). L, D, $$.

Blue Orchid

Blue Orchid Thai serves authentic Asian fare made with traditional ingredients like Thai basil, palm sugar, and kaffir lime leaves. Their pad Thai and dynamite chicken are house favorites. 13475 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville (723-1300; blueorchid.menu). L, D, $$.

Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q

More than a wine bar, Coastal is where community, connection and friends come together over wine, food and good times. Enjoy a full kitchen featuring housemade tapas and weekly specials, ticketed wine tastings and private events, a boutique wine club with exclusive selections, live music every other Friday night and a monthly Sunday brunch. Reservations recommended. 300 Pine Lake Drive, Suite 101, Ponte Vedra (904-395-3520; coastalwineandtapas.com). D, $$.

Coop 303

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

Meat is the draw at Bono’s Pit BarB-Q, which has been pit-smoking everything from turkey to pork since 1949. Try the Slawpy Pig, a heaping pile of pulled pork topped with coleslaw and served with sides such as fried corn on the cob, collard greens, or Brunswick stew. Multiple locations (880-8310;

Beach (372-4507; coop303.com).

bonosbarbq.com). L, D, $.

L, D, SB, $$.

Caffé Andiamo

Cordova, A Coastal Chophouse & Bar

A copper pizza oven highlights this stylish eatery specializing in frutti di mare, pollo paisano, vongole Positano, and homemade Italian sausage. Caffe Andiamo complements their Italian fare with a vast wine selection and exudes a modern and relaxing vibe. 225 Village Main St., Ponte Vedra Beach (280-2299; caffeandiamo-pvb.com). L, D, $$.

Casa Reina Taqueria & Tequila

Located just steps from the historic Bridge of Lions in the heart of Downtown St. Augustine, the new upscale Mexican/Florida Coastal eaterie speciallizes in street tacos and enchiladas, as well as short rib, chiles rellenos and tequila lime grouper. Nearly 100 tequilas on offer. 1 Anderson

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

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HOT SEATS

A Jax Beach Icon for Over 30 Years!

Cowford Chophouse

Spread over three levels in a restored building near the foot of the Main Street Bridge, Cowford is an upscale restaurant/rooftop bar combo that specializes in hand-cut steaks and seafood. The menu is flush with items such as tuna tartare, roasted bone marrow and foie gras. A raw bar serves oysters, shrimp cocktail and caviar. For the main course, diners choose between dishes such as bone-in ribeyes and Maine lobster. 101 E. Bay St., Downtown (862-6464). D, $$$$.

Cruisers Grill

For more than 20 years, beachgoers have looked to Cruisers Grill for their signature burger and cheese fries served with ranch dressing. Grilled chicken, country fried steak, turkey and melted Swiss—the sandwich lineup is tops. They offer all the classics, plus newer options like a house-made fried bologna sandwich. 319 23rd Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach (2700356). L, D, $.

e’re proud to be Jacksonville Beach’s hometown choice for casual classics. Guests love our laid-back atmosphere, friendly service, and of course, our tasty menu!

Culhane’s Irish Pubs & Restaurants

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

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

David's Macarons • Lavazza Coffee Fine Chocolates • Gelato

A fine-dining landmark in Fernandina Beach for some 20 years, this chef-driven eatery features an extensive wine and cocktail list, Wagyu beef, Australian rack of lamb, pan-seared Dover sole and seafood gnocchi bouillabaisse in coconut broth. 802 Ash St., Amelia

Savannah Broughton Street Collection

The Shoppes of Avondale

As a tequila bar and grill located in Neptune Beach, the Flying Iguana represents one of the liveliest dining options in Duval. Specializing in Latin-American cuisine and expansive cocktail possibilities, the restaurant also hosts live music and has only one rule: Good Vibes Only. 207 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach (853-5680, flyingiguana. com). L, D, SB, $$

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille

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

JJ’s Liberty Bistro

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

Le Petit Paris Café

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

locations including 9965 San Jose Blvd., Suite 46, San Jose (512-7777, lepetitparis jax.com). B, L, $.

The Fish Company

Matthew’s Restaurant

Eleven South Bistro

Jacksonville

Flying Iguana Taqueria & Tequila Bar

A little slice of France in the River City, the chef-owned establishment specializes in toasted croissants, quiches and baguette sandwiches. Le Parisien is a classic French hand-held with ham, Swiss and salted butter. The Le Flore salad is a must-try with smoked salmon, tzatiziki cream, cucumber, sun-dried tomatoes, dill and mixed greens. Sweets include fresh pastries, macarons and pound cakes. Don’t overlook the espresso or cappuccino. Market offers imported foods, condiments and beverages. Pet-friendly patio. Several

Island (310-6049, ameliaislanddavids.com) D, $$$

The Avenues Mall

Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (2460123; thefish cojax.com). L, D. $$$.

With a crowded raw bar and a wide variety of locally caught seafood, The Fish Co. offers a little something for everyone Chef Bill Pinner’s menu combines signature items like fried Mayport shrimp with favorite small plate dishes, changing weekly. The restaurant offers several specials throughout the week. 725-12

A fine-dining experience in historic San Marco. The menu is comprised of French and Mediterranean dishes crafted by Chef Alex Yim and also possesses a vast wine selection. Menu items include venison carpaccio, Maine diver scallops, and Osetra caviar. 2107 Hendricks Ave., San Marco (396-9922; matthewsrestaurant.com). D, $$$$. Continued on page 115

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SINCE

1988.

FRESH FARE. COASTAL FLAIR. PRIVATE BANQUET SPECIALIST | FULL SERVICE BAR | LUNCH & DINNER DAILY | LAKESIDE PATIO SEATING

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

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Izakaya Ko skewers

Rising Suns THERE’S A NEW BREED OF JAPANESE RESTAURANTS MAKING A MARK IN JAX. BY JEFFREY SPEAR

acksonville's dining community has seen exciting new concepts opening all over town. Of note are two styles of Japanese restaurants—omakase and izakaya. The omakase experience is interactive and upscale, caters to a limited number of guests, typically served in small dining rooms. Using ultra-fresh seasonal and exotic imported ingredients, the chef cooks exclusively for your group, preparing a variety of creatively inspired dishes. Knowing that multicourse omakase dinners can be quite expensive, it's a good idea to ask about prices in advance. Starting with Black Pearl, don't be mistaken by its shopping center facade. Once across its threshold, a refined culinary adventure begins. There are actually three separate experiences—the dining room serving Japanese, Italian and French inspired cuisines; an intimate omakase rooted in traditional Japanese technique, precision and style; and a cleverly hidden speakeasy for a refined cocktail experience. While the menu changes seasonally, the Duck Sausage Campanelle ($38) and Kurobuta Pork & Veal Polpette ($38) are excellent. The omakase (limited to 8 guests) is a sophisticated, somewhat theatrical, and impressive, 20-course affair featuring a variety of small plates, nigiri and delightful surprises.

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Black Pearl omakase

HOT SEATS Tucked into an out of the way cul-de-sac in San Marco, KoBu serves a wide range of Japanese delights. Its main dining room offers small plates, nigiri, sashimi, temaki and makimono along with an assortment of signature dishes. Not to be missed are their Volcano Ash ($23), a signature maki made with salmon, avocado, bluefin tuna and buttery garlic sauce; house-made Gyoza ($12) with pork or beef; and the Japanese A5 Wagyu BBQ 6 oz. ($75), grilled table-side. In their private omakase room, guests are treated to a considerably more artful, refined and chef-curated dining experience.

“Serving Locals at the Beach for 39 Years”

KoBu omakase

1183 Beach Boulevard | Jacksonville Beach 904.853.5094 | rpsjaxbeach.com

Located in Jacksonville's Southside, Norikase serves a variety of crudos, specialty rolls, nigiri and sashimi, and a selection of premium sakes. A few of their more inviting dishes includes A5 Wagyu Gyoza ($24), served with black garlic ponzu, local herbs; Otoro Tartare ($38), made with extra fatty bluefin tuna; and Mango Spider ($20), a specialty roll featuring softshell crab, avocado, mango salsa, pistachio furikake. Of course, their omakase, a refined, multi-course adventure, is their most memorable and entertaining offering. Izakaya Ko

On a completely different note, an izakaya serves contemporary Japanese cuisine that's considerably more casual and affordable. Described as a relaxed, highly social, gathering spot, they're known for small, shareable plates, and plenty of alcoholic beverages, especially sake and Japanese whiskey. A few of the more traditional dishes include edamame, kushiyaki or yakitori (grilled skewers), chicken karaage, sashimi, and French fries.

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HOT SEATS Located just blocks from the beach in Jacksonville Beach is Izakaya Ko, a lively Japanese gastropub serving all the traditional dishes you'd expect from an izakaya. A few not-to-be-missed items include their Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice ($13), crunchy rice topped with tuna; Mentaiko Udon ($17), with a buttery cream sauce, seaweed, caviar; and Rendang Mazeman ($20), sweet noodles and Indonesian-inspired coconut braised beef.

O-Ku

Check out their monthly Japanese brunch, supper club, jazz nights, guest DJs, late night happy hours and mahjong nights. With so much going on, especially on weekends, reservations are recommended. One of the most recent izakaya-style restaurants to open in Jacksonville is Nomu Izakaya, a lively, bright and inviting space serving shareable Japanese small plates. Keeping with tradition, they offer sushi, sashimi and hand rolls, as well as a delectable assortment of grilled items from their kushiyaki menu. Signature plates including Katsu ($21) or Wagyu Don ($25) are appealing, as is their selection of sakes and Japanese whiskeys. Located in the Deerwood neighborhood, with V Pizza, Sip N Smash, and Chocolate Bar on its flanks, Izakaya is a welcome addition to one of the city's hottest dining and entertainment destinations.

O-Ku

While not as exclusive as an omakase, or as exuberant as an izakaya, the level of excellence, style, and panache exhibited at O-Ku in Jacksonville Beach cannot be overlooked. Whether you enjoy the main dining room, sushi bar, or the fresh ocean breeze that visits the rooftop deck, a meal at O-Ku is a joyous exploration of Japanese cuisine. Enjoy specialties such as Akami Crudo ($29), Tuna Tataki ($20) or Wagyu Sando ($88). With so many choices, your server would be happy to recommend a "tour" of the menu. If interested, an eight-course omakase experience is available upon request, with reservations. u

LET'S EAT! Often called Amelia Island’s “secret season,” autumn tends to bring warm days, cooler nights and less-crowded beaches, and an alltogether slower pace. To celebrate the season and to lure more hungry visitors, Amelia Island Dining Month runs throughout September. Nearly two dozen island restaurants—from elegant resorts and waterfront eateries to cozy neighborhood favorites and chef-driven kitchens—offer menus that draw inspiration from the region’s culinary bounty, such as fresh shrimp and fish, Low County flavors and Southern traditions. Counted among the participating restaurants are Coast at the RitzCarlton, David’s Restaurant, V Pizza (pictured), Shucker’s Oyster Bar and Patio at 5th and Ash. Diners can expect dishes such as grilled branzino with local shrimp risotto from David’s, sautéed shrimp and grits at Down Under, and beer-battered fish and chips ($17) from Scully’s Irish Pub. Several restaurants are offering multi-course prix-fixed meals, including a Caesar salad, sweet and spicy fish chowder and fried grouper sandwich with fries ($25) at Salt Life Food Shack. u

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FORK ON THE ROAD



DREAM STREET:  FRIED CALAMARI, OYSTERS ROCKEFELLER, PORK LUMPIA… YES, PLEASE

FIRST ST REET

First Street, Neptune Beach



LEMON ST

REET



HALL PLAC

 FIRST STRE

MEZZA LUNA RISTORANTE Mezza is both casual and refined at the same time. White tablecloths, exposed red brick and wood beams overhead all create a special vibe. A table on the covered patio can’t be beat. Lamb lollipops, herb-crusted scallops ($39), grilled filet mignon, crispy duck leg ($32) are menu standouts, as are the pizzas coming from the wood-fired oven. All the pastas, like the pappardelle with short rib rage and herb ricotta, are fresh-made daily. The complimentary valet parking is a bonus. Don’t forget to tip. Dinner served beginning at 4 PM nightly. Reservations recommended. 110 First St., 904-249-5573

SLIDER’S OYSTER BAR A true neighborhood gathering spot, regulars arrive by bike, on foot and often with a cute dog in tow. Sliders says, “beachy casual,” in all the right ways. Outdoor seating, live music, buckets of beer, chilled cocktails, and a menu swimming in peel-and-eat Mayport shrimp, steamed clams ($9), bacon-wrapper scallops, raw oysters, conch fritters ($14), seared salmon, crab cakes… you get the idea. Lunch and dinner daily, brunch on weekends opens at 10 AM. 218 First St., 904-246-0881

BAR-B-Q STICKS RESTAURANT Tucked behind and around the corner from Pete’s Bar, tiny Bar-B-Q Sticks is something of a hidden hole-in-the-wall specializing in Filipino fare. Order at the outdoor counter, find a seat at one of the picnic tables, and dig into some pancit, lumpia ($4.50), garlic rice, beef empanadas, and grilled skewers of pork, beef and chicken. Save room for a cup of halo halo for dessert. The beach is about a block away. Cash is king. Lunch and dinner daily. 120 1/2 Lemon St., 904-582-7788 u

ORANGE ST RE

 ET

Miami Nice

When many think of Florida oysters, the broad expanse of Apalachicola Bay comes to mind. While it’s true the waters of the Panhandle are ideal habitat for oysters, there is a spot a little closer to home that’s making a mark, one half-shell at a time. And you are invited to see for yourself. SharkBite Oysters in New Smyrna Beach takes visitors aboard the Narwhal, a restored Maine lobster boat, on three-hour excursions through the waters of Mosquito Lagoon. Founded in 2022 by Florida native Sam Walsh, SharkBite began with 50,000 tiny oysters planted in the protected briny waters. Today, Walsh and company cultivate more than one million oysters in hundreds of cages peppered across the lagoon, supplying many New Smyrna restaurants, including the Local Pearl Oyster Bar, and eateries across the country. Oyster farms tours for six passengers are $600, with a dozen oysters shucked in. u 114 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

Florida’s stone crab season kicks off in late October. Coinciding with the annual happening is another, specifically the South Beach Seafood Festival, October 21-24. Dozens of South Florida restaurants join in by participating in signature events such as the Evening in Miami Beach, VIP Chef Showdown and the Bartender Showdown. At the Saturday afternoon Seafood Slam ($140), the festival’s main event, more than 40 restaurants take over the sands of Lummus Park along Ocean Drive in Miami Beach for an all-inclusive afternoon of unlimited food and drink tastings, live music, culinary demos, and the crowd-voted Best of the Fest competition. u

HOT SEATS

Restaurant Medure

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

Mellow Mushroom

With more than 200 locations around the country, Mellow Mushroom has garnered a loyal following for its stone-baked pizza flavor combinations and for offering up craft beer, premium imports and local favorites. Menu features baked chicken wings, spinach artichoke dip and a dozen house speciality pizzas. Multiple area locations: Avondale, Fleming Island, Southside, River City, Jacksonville Beach (mellowmushroom. com). L, D, $$.

Mezza Luna Ristorante

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

Midtown Table

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

Mojo Bar-B-Que

This regional chain showcases Southern barbecue styles like Texas and North Carolina, including everything from burnt ends to pulled pork. Their restaurants celebrate blues, with their Avondale location boasting one of the city’s most expansive whiskey selections and their Jacksonville Beach location featuring live music. 1607 University Blvd. W., Lakewood (732-7200, mojobbq.com); 1500 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach (247-6636); 1810 Town Center Blvd., Fleming Island (264-0636); 3572 St. Johns Ave., Avondale (381-6670); 5 Cordova St., St. Augustine (342-5264). L, D, $$.

Nineteen

Located inside the clubhouse at TPC Sawgrass, this fine-dining restaurant matches the high quality you would expect for a place that hosts The Players Championship. The menu is dominated by seafood and local fare, like lime pepper-crusted tuna and ribeye steak.

The broad back patio overlooks the golf course. Sawgrass Clubhouse, Ponte Vedra Beach (273-3238; tpcsawgrass.com). B, L, D, $$.

1912 Ocean Bar and Rooftop

A part of the Marriott Sawgrass Golf Resort and Spa, the oceanside outpost offers postcard views of the Atlantic and indoor and outdoor seating on the second and third floors. The menu features seared scallops, blackened rock shrimp, boneless short ribs, small plates, cocktails and wine. Save room for chocolate pistachio tarts for dessert. 619 Ponte Vedra Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach (373-2063). L, D, $$.

1928 Cuban Bistro

At this growing collection of homegrown casual bistros, authentic Cuban recipes are infused with a contemporary flair. Breakfast items include mini croquetas and egg sandwich, ham and cheese tostada and open-face toast topped with avocado, bacon, fried eggs and more. A lengthy menu covers much ground with Cuban espresso, roasted pork sandwiches, chicken empanadas, shredded beef sandwiches, and rice plates with braised chicken, pork, ground beef and more. Eight First Coast locations including 3928 Baymeadows Rd., Baymeadows (683-8104, 1928bistro.com). B, L, D, SB, $$.

O-Ku Sushi

O-Ku offers upscale Japanese cuisine, a rooftop bar and patio and seafood from fish markets in Tokyo, Hawaii and here locally. Check out the chef specialties and small plates like tuna crudo, Agedashi tofu and O-Ku rock shrimp or just go straight for the rolls including Neptune’s Beard (shrimp tempura, avocado, spicy tuna, salmon, spicy aioli, sweet soy, chive) and the Firecracker (crispy panko fried roll with spicy salmon, avocado, cucumber, goat cheese mousse, sweet soy). 502 1st St. N., Jacksonville Beach (694-2770, o-kusushi.com). D, $$$.

Restaurant Orsay

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

Philly’s Finest

When you call yourself Philly’s Finest, you better bring the Cheesesteak magic. For the love of Pat’s and Geno’s, they’ve been doing just that for two decades at the Jax Beach sandwich institution. American, mozzarella, and provolone cheeses, sautéed onions, mushrooms, pickles, sweet peppers, black olives, Cheese Whiz—each order can be customContinued on page 117 JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

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PARTY SEEN

DINNER DATES

PHOTOS BY SKYLER CATHERWOOD

There were hot dogs and puppy dogs aplenty at the Jumbo Shrimp’s “Canines and Crustaceans” the evening of August 25, as the Shrimp battled the Nashville Sounds. Dogs of all shapes and sizes were invited inside VyStar Ballpark to partake in the night’s action in the stands and on the diamond. Hot dogs were just $2. Hold the ketchup, please. u

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HOT SEATS ized to one’s liking for about $15. Order a side of the Old Bay fries, too. 1527 3rd St. N., Jacksonville Beach (241-7188, phillys-finest. com). L, D, $$.

Poppy’s Italiano

Family-owned establishment serving Italian comfort foods since 2107, Poppy’s serves lunch and dinner daily featuring toasted cheese ravioli, Caesar salads, baked penne pasta, chicken piccata and seafood risotto. Among its specialty pasta are spaghetti carbonara with prosciutto, peas and onions sautéed and tossed in cream sauce, and linguini primavera with seasonal vegetable. 832 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach (904-2737272); 104 Ashourian Ave., St. Augustine (904679-3657, poppysitaliano.net). L, D, $$.

Poe’s Tavern

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

Patrons were invited to dust off their platform shoes and white polyester suits for the 1970's throwback musical, Saturday Night Fever, which opened August 20 at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining. Based on the 1977 hit film starring John Travolta, the musical showcases songs like “Disco Inferno” and “Staying Alive.” Fittingly, the menu featured Italian wedding soup, cheese ravioli primavera marinara and cannoli with chocolate sauce. As of Jax Magazine’s press date, the show is sold out for its entirety until September 27. No disco ball for you, if you don’t have seats already. u

LIFE'S A BEACH This year’s Hammock Beach Food & Wine Classic is shaping up to be bigger and better than ever. New additions to the festival lineup, September 18-20, include a 5K run through the beachside neighborhood, live painting by Florida artist William Lurcott, culinary games for kids, and a Sunday golf tournament at the resort’s acclaimed Ocean Course. The weekend gets rolling with A Taste of the Andes, an immersive wine seminar exploring the world’s longest continental mountain range and the celebrated wines of Chile and Argentina. Speaking of wines: The Classic’s signature Grand Tasting on Saturday evening features more than 90 wines from around the globe, as well as a craft beer garden, live music, and gourmet tasting stations. Guests looking for a truly elevated experience can purchase the new VIP Experience ($225), offering access to a private lounge with comfy seating, high-end wines, and an enhanced menu of savory resort specialties. u

River & Post

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

RP’s Fine Food & Drink

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

Rue Saint-Marc

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

Safe Harbor Seafood

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

Salento Colombian Steakhouse

Open since 2014, this family-operated dining spot specializes in grilled salmon, pork chops, ribeye steaks, burgers and more. Also serving fried green plantains, arepas, corn cakes, rice and beans—all with a Latin American flair. 11018 Old St. Augustine Rd., Continued on page 121

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SIDE DISHES

Three's Company Jax-based DuBlasé Whiskey recently introduced a new collection to its lineup of spirits. Its Signature Bourbon Trio pays tribute to the spirit’s storied legacy while advancing a mission centered on community impact and purpose. “We wanted this collection to honor the traditions of bourbons while defining our own economic impact,” says DuBlasé founder Darrin Eakins. “For us, legacy isn’t only about what we leave behind, it’s about what we build today that creates opportunities for others tomorrow.” The Signature No. 9 collection features three distinct bourbons, aged five, seven and ten years, respectively. According to Eakins, the fiveyear, oak-aged bourbon (approximately $55 per bottle) is laced with flavors of vanilla bean and savory spices. The ten-year label combines notes of chocolate and roasted nuts. u

Vegan eats were the order of the day at more than 30 area restaurants in August. The reason for all the plant-based dishes? The 4th annual Jacksonville Vegan Challenge, a friendly competition organized by Renny Ma and Raquel Little that invites local chefs to showcase their creativity with innovative vegan fare. In addition, diners had the month-long opportunity to explore unusual menu items and rate the dishes they enjoyed via an online poll. “One of the things I love the most about the Vegan Chef Challenge is that it creates a low-risk opportunity for restaurants to experiment and for diners to provide honest feedback,” says Ma. “The Challenge encourages creativity in the kitchen while giving chefs valuable insight into how guests respond to new menu items. The exchange between chefs and diners is what makes the event so rewarding to watch each year.” Among the participating restaurants were Biscottis, Buddha Thai Bistro, Hala’s Mideast Eatery and Market, Murray Hillbilly and Moon Dog Pie House. “Many people have assumptions about plant-based food before they’ve ever tried it,” says Little. “The Vegan Chef Challenge creates an opportunity for diners to experience these dishes in a familiar setting from chefs and restaurants they already know and trust.” u

Growing a few vegetables in a home garden may have effects far beyond the backyard gate, according to a new research by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. “Gardeners occupy an unusual position in the food system. They’re consumers, but they’re also producers on a very small scale,” says UF professor Chenxi Hu. “That dual role seems to shape how they value food grown near them.” The study suggests that firsthand experience growing food may influence how consumers think about locally produced fruits and vegetables. “The most interesting part isn’t just that gardeners paid more,” adds Hu. “Gardening didn’t change what people were willing to pay for the organic label, or for stems and stickers on the tomato. It only changed what they’d pay for local.” Ultimately, the findings suggest that a backyard garden does more than produce fresh fruits and vegetables. It may also help people develop a deeper appreciation for local food, the farmers who grow it and the communities they serve. “A backyard garden won’t feed a household, but it may change how that household chooses to shop for that family food supply,” Hu says. “That’s a small intervention with a wider effect than most people would expect.” u

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Contemporary Italian Fare with Traditional Fresh Ingredients

Oyster Bar!

Local Fish • Shrimp • Clams • Mussels • Oysters Crab: Snow • Dungeness • Stone (Seasonal) Homemade Soups & Salads • Desserts Open for Lunch & Dinner | caffeandiamo-pvb.com | 904.280.2299 225 Village Main Street, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

Family Owned & Operated Check our website for hours & special rewards

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

C AT E R I N G + E V E N TS HOSTING WITH MIDTOWN TABLE IS EFFORTLESS. Whether you’re gathering colleagues, celebrating with family, or bringing friends together, our team offers elevated on-site and off-site experiences designed to fit your occasion.  Full, 1/2 and 1/3 patio buyouts  Family-Style, buffet or courses meal option  Personalized event coordination  Seated or cocktail-style receptions  Curated bar packages  Off-site catering and delivery  Catering packages for any occasion

midtowntable.medurebrothers.com/catering-events

BRUNCH HAPPY HOUR& Sunday

Saturday 2pm

10am-

JAX BEACH 1712 BEACH BLVD. 904.249.TACO TACOLU.COM

ASK US ABOUT CATERING!

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RECIPE

INGREDIENTS

Bread 3 ripe bananas 3/4 cup olive oil 3 large eggs 3/4 cup granulated sugar 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed 1 1/8 tsp baking soda 3/8 tsp salt 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper. 2. Place the bananas, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer. Mix until the bananas are completely mashed. 3. Add the olive oil and eggs and mix until well combined. 4. Add the baking soda, salt, and flour. Mix just until incorporated, being careful not to over-mix. 5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. 6. Bake at 325°F until golden brown and a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. 7. Allow to cool before removing from the pan and slicing.

INGREDIENTS

Olive Oil Banana Bread with citrus mascarpone whip, spiced brown butter crumble and local honey BY CHEF VEROUSCE McKIBBIN, THE RITZ-CARLTON, AMELIA ISLAND The kitchens at The Ritz-Carlton have a decided international flavor, with a cadre of chefs hailing from countries around the globe. Among them is Executive Pastry Chef Verousce McKibbin, a mother of four and native of South Africa who leads a team of 15 pastry professionals at the oceanside resort—home to five dining options, most notably the awardwinning Salt restaurant. “I came to The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island for the extraordinary resources that allow us to push the boundaries and create meaningful connections with our guests,” she says. Surely, many connections with her delicious creations will be made at this year’s Amelia Island Cookout, taking place October 15-18. Here, chef McKibbin shares her recipe for Olive Oil Banana Bread, a savory specialty one can make at home.

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Citrus Mascarpone Whip 2 cups heavy cream 8 oz Mascarpone cheese 1/4 cup powdered sugar 1/4 cup instant vanilla pudding powder 2 oranges, zested and juiced 1 lemon, zested and juiced

5. Allow the brown butter crystals to cool before using.

INGREDIENTS

Cornflake Crumble Brown butter crystals from recipe above 1 1/2 cups cornflakes, crushed 1 tsp Sea salt 1 cup white chocolate, melted 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground ginger 1 tsp ground cardamom

METHOD

1. Place the brown butter crystals, crushed cornflakes, sea salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom in a mixing bowl. 2. Add the melted white chocolate and mix until everything is evenly coated. 3. Spread the mixture onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. 4. Allow to set for a few hours at room temperature, or use right away. 5. Once set, break into desiredsize pieces. 6. Store in an airtight container until ready to use.

TO SERVE

Slice the olive oil banana bread and serve with a generous spoonful of citrus mascarpone whip. Sprinkle with the spiced brown butter crumble for a buttery, salty crunch. Finish with a generous drizzle of local honey

METHOD

1. Place the heavy cream, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, instant vanilla pudding powder, orange zest and juice, and lemon zest and juice into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. 2. Whip on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and soft peaks form. 3. Keep refrigerated until ready to use.

INGREDIENTS

Spiced Brown Butter Crumble 2 sticks unsalted butter 1/4 milk powder

METHOD

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. 2. Add the milk powder and continue to cook, stirring constantly. 3. Cook until the milk powder becomes deeply golden brown and toasted brown butter crystals form. 4. Strain the butter, reserving the browned milk solids for the crumble.

CHEF’S TIPS

“I use instant pudding powder to stabilize my whipped cream. It creates a beautifully smooth, creamy consistency while helping the cream hold its structure longer—both in the refrigerator and once plated,” says McKibbin. “This is especially helpful when preparing desserts ahead of time, allowing the cream to maintain its fresh texture and polished presentation. Also, don’t throw away the brown butter. Save the strained brown butter to make delicious brown butter cookies, or use it in place of the olive oil in the banana bread for an extra-rich, buttery variation.” u

HOT SEATS Mandarin (374-5882); 60 Silver Forest Dr., St. Augustine (342-7557, salentosteakhouse.com)

Salt Life Food Shack

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

Sliders Oyster Bar

With its open-air bar and broad covered patio, Sliders oozes beaches vibes and charm. A sister restaurant of Safe Harbor Seafood, diners rest assured the fish, shrimp, and shellfish are going to be the freshe st around. The raw bar serves all the seafood staples like steamed clams, peel-and-eat shrimp and oysters on the half-shell. The oysters Rockefeller is baked with spinach, parmesan, provolone and breadcrumbs. The oysters “Godzilla” are served raw with seaweed salad, cucumber wasabi and the house “pirate” sauce. 218 1st St., Neptune Beach (246-0881, slidersoysterbar.com). L, D, $$.

Surfwiches

One of Northeast Florida’s original cheesesteak and hoagie stops, Surfwiches has been a top Beaches sandwich and full-service ice cream shop since 2013. Cheese-steaks range from sliced ribeye steak to grilled buffalo chicken. Classic hoagies include the Italian with Genoa salami, spicy capitol, prosciutto and provolone, as well as the thin-sliced roast beef, ham and cheese, and corned beef. The Outrageous BLT comes with a mountain of applewood-cured bacon. Plus, hot dogs, burgers, patty melts, chocolate sundaes, and more. Dine in, carryout and delivery through Uber Eats. 1537 Penman Rd., Jacksonville Beach (904-2416996, surfwiches.com) B, L, $$

TacoLu

In a style described as Baja Mexicana, this "uber" popular restaurant serves nachos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and about any kind of taco you desire, with fish tacos being their specialty. TacoLu fulfills their niche well, and it’s what earned them the designation of “Best Tacos” in the city in our Best In Jax reader’s poll. Oh, and they have over 100 types of tequila and mezcal. 1712 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach (249-TACO; tacolu.com). L, D, SB, $.

ing authentic Mexican eats. If you come on a Friday or Saturday, be sure to try their Al Pastor. Happy hour food and drink specials available Mon.-Fri. from 3-6:30. Closed Sundays. 809 Lomax St., Riverside (312-9113; taqueria5points.com). L, D, $$.

Taverna

Taverna offers authentic Italian dishes with a modern twist. Its focused menu brings out the best in Mediterranean flavors, producing dishes like antipasto and orecchiette. All of their pasta and mozzarella are house-made, and the pizzas are cooked in a wood oven at the back of the dining room. 1986 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-3005; taverna. restaurant). L, D, SB, $$.

Taverna Oceana

The recently opened next door neighbor to sister eatery Taverna, Sam and Kiley Efron’s latest specializes in fruits of the sea. The raw bar serves classics like oysters on the half-shell, shrimp cocktail and caviar. Dinner features lobster thermador, hot-smoked salmon and pasta primavera. 1988 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-3005; oceana. restaurant). L, D, $$

Town Hall

Sourcing produce from local farms, Town Hall brings American fare with a West Coast influence to Florida. They encourage a sense of community in their dining experience, emphasized by comfy couches, warmly hued artwork, and thoughtful design touches such as outlets in the bar area. 2012 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-0726; townhalljax. com). D, SB, $$$.

Vernon’s First Coast Kitchen & Bar

Located at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, this restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients and seafood, and provides an exceptional wine list. Sunday brunch features farm-to-table classics like chicken and waffles and biscuits with gravy. 1000 PGA Tour Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach (2857777). B, D, $$$.

Whitey’s Fish Camp

Not many restaurants double as an RV park. That hospitality, combined with homespun ultra casual décor produces a Southern atmosphere at Whitey’s Fish Camp that is, above all, authentic. The seafood is fresh and specialities include beer-battered fried grouper, North-of-the-border steamed snow crab legs, a shrimp boil, and all-you-can-eat catfish. Check out the deck, tiki bar and dock, where you can even arrive by boat. 2032 C.R. 220, Orange Park (269-4198; whiteysfish-camp.com).

L, D, $$. u

Taqueria Cinco

Located in funky Five Points, this restaurant focuses on providing top-notch hospitality while serv-

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

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Only in Florida STRANGE BUT TRUE STORIES FROM ACROSS THE SUNSHINE STATE

man carrying a hatchet gets into a fight with another man wielding a machete in a Publix parking lot… it has to be in Florida, right? And it was. In August, Everette Krichbaum and James Gay were involved in a Dark Ages-style duel one afternoon in the parking lot of a Panama Beach grocery store. According to police, during the altercation Gay struck Krichbaum in the face with the machete. Fortunately, it was still sheathed. Both men did receive lacerations to their hands during the fight, and Kirchbaum was struck in the head and knocked unconscious. After being read his rights, Gay reportedly admitted stopping his car to confront Krichbaum “regarding prior issues” and claimed that Krichbaum “had been harassing him.” Gay, cops say, admitted that he had the opportunity to “leave the scene but chose not to due to personal pride” and that he struck Krichbaum “in the head and stomped him while he was on the ground.” Charged with aggravated battery, both Gay and Krichbaum were booked into the county jail. Why in the world would there be mothballs scattered all over the sand in St. Pete Beach? It was a real mystery, for sure. One that was recently solved by local police and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Two St. Pete business owners were charged with third-degree felonies after allegedly depositing about 1,500 mothballs across the beach with the goal of keeping birds from nesting alone the shore, according to FOXNEWS.com. Reportedly, Christopher Monroe, owner and manager of Chris’s Beachside Bar, and Robert Czyszczon, owner of the Plaza Beach Hotel, are the mothball bandits. The duo that hatched the plan feared scores of nesting Black Skimmers would result in lost revenue for their respective establishments. If convicted, both could

122 | JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

face up to five years in prison, fines of up to $5,000 and up to five years of probation. Volunteers have since removed approximately 1,000 moth balls from the sand behind the Plaza Beach Hotel. "I'm actually on my way to my cheating girlfriend's house." So replied Gavin Ames, responding to a DeSoto County Sheriff’s Officer inquiry after being stopped for speeding late in the evening of August 1. Reportedly, Ames was clocked driving 110 miles per hour in a 60 mph zone—meaning he was subject to Florida “super speeder” law. As such, he was ticketed and arrested for driving more than 50 miles per hour over the speed limit. "I’m just in shock right now. I’m in the back of a cop car listening to Boss Man D-Lo at one o’clock in the morning to catch my cheating girlfriend," Ames said on video to the deputy from the backseat of the patrol car. "Now, I’m going to get bailed out by her." We hope so, Gavin. In 2017, Tom Rahill founded an organization that takes military vets on python hunts in south Florida as a form of treatment for PTSD. So, he’s pretty good at it. So good, in fact, he won this year’s Florida Python Challenge, bagging 96 of the invasive snakes inside Everglades National Park during the July 10-19 competition. His reptilian haul earned him bragging rights and the $10,000 grand prize. The competition awarded prizes in professional, novice and military divisions, along with the top honors for the most pythons captured overall. Christina Kraus won the professional division with 36 snakes. In all, some 900 competitors caught and removed 280 Burmese pythons from eight designated hunting areas. The longest snake measured over 16 feet. Thank you for your service, Tom. For helping vets and not helping pythons. u

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