Jacksonville Magazine, June 2026

2026 TOP DOCTORS

Annual Compilation of the City's Leading Physicians, as Named by Their Peers

PATRIOT GAMES

RETAIL THERAPY

A comprehensive list of the region's leading physicians, board-certified plastic surgeons, standout cosmetic dentists and other medical professionals who give us care.

man's hunt for Jacksonville's remaining working pay phones.

The lyrics of the Friends theme song nicely sum up the longtime relationships that led to the building of a dream home.

classic watering holes, dive bars that have stood the test of time.

Publisher’s Note

Clues to who may develop obesity later in life can be found within the first year after birth, according to a new long-term study published in a recent medical journal and co-authored by researchers at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. The study followed a large group of children from birth until adulthood over more than two decades, tracking how early-life factors relate to later health outcomes.

As the publisher and editor of Jacksonville Magazine I receive a steady dose of medical-related news releases and research papers, some of which may find a mention in the publication should the topic relate to readers in Northeast Florida. This particular study caught my attention because it was conducted, in part, by experts working just a short drive from Jax. In addition, food and health are two topics about

which our readers have keen interest. I have a bit of science nerd in me, too, so I found the subject fascinating.

For the study, researchers analyzed blood samples collected at birth and gut bacteria from stool samples taken at about age one, before children’s diets begin to vary widely. They found that kids who later became obese already showed subtle biological differences early in life, including changes in certain proteins in the blood and types of bacteria living in the digestive system. Some of the early signals appeared independent of parental weight, suggesting that obesity risk cannot be explained by family history or lifestyle factors alone.

“This doesn’t mean that obesity is divine, that it’s predestined, but it does mean that there’s a certain vulnerability,” says Angelica Ahrens, lead author of the study and a UF assistant research scientist in microbi-

ology. “We’re asking, “can that vulnerability be acted upon to help those children, so they do not develop obesity.’” The study concludes that the findings haven’t yet translated into clinical screening tools, but their is a possibility in the future of identifying at-risk kids earlier and supporting healthier outcomes as they grow.

Passing on locally relevant information such as this—especially our Top Doctors compilation featured in this edition—is among the primary reasons for publishing Jacksonville Magazine, and I believe something that has kept readers looking to us for more than 42 years. So, thanks for reading. Stay healthy out there. u

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

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JAX FILES

"Most visitors might not even notice it, but this statue in the parking lot of the Cummer Museum is kind of like a hidden artistic gem. It always makes me think that beauty is all around us, if you know where and how to look for it."

— Katie Ford

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

Small Talk

Newsworthy Nuggets from Across Northeast Florida to Ponder on This Month

J Think congestion along Hwy. A1A in Ponte Vedra Beach is getting worse? You’re not wrong. According a RentCafe report detailing the country’s 50 newest neighborhoods, PVB ranks #5 nationally for housing inventory growth over the last decade. Ten years ago, there were approximately 2,100 homes and apartments here. By 2023, that number had grown to more than 10,000, a 382% increase. Population kept pace, too, rising from roughly 5,900 to more than 27,000 residents, a 362% surge.

J The Jacksonville Jaguars 2026 schedule features three primetime games: Week 9 at Baltimore (November 9), Week 14 versus Pittsburgh on Monday Night Football (December 14), and Week 16 at Dallas (December 27). Paired with the team’s two games in London, this matches the most stand-alone games in a single season in franchise history. It’s also the seventh time, and the first time since 2023, that the Jags are scheduled for three or more primetime con-

tests. It would seem the NFL expects the team to be playing meaningful games late in the season. Let’s hope that’s the case.

J In commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary, and to encourage travel to the Sunshine State, Visit Florida produced a new documentary series, America 250: A Portrait of Florida. The seven-episode series showcases the people, places and pivotal moments that have shaped the state and, in turn, the United States. Most of the episodes have been released and may be viewed at America250FL.com, with the remainder being available leading up to July 4th.

J Speaking of Visit Florida: According to its most recent visitation data, the Sunshine State remains a magnet for travels from across the globe. Recently updated numbers from 2025 showed Florida welcomed 3.17 million Canadian visitors last year, for example. Overseas

Higher Learning

The University of Florida recently released a rendering of its proposed graduate campus in Downtown. Designs by developer Edgemoor Infrastructure & Real Estate picture a largely glass, eight-story building at the corner of West Bay and Lee streets, on a 20-acre site adjacent to the Prime Osborn Convention Center. “This updated rendering shows the promise of our efforts,” says UF Board of Trustees chair Mori Hosseini. “It is important to note that this rendering of the first building is a starting point; it will evolve as the developer team and the university work together to refine the vision into what ultimately will be a spectacular facility and the keystone of a world-class campus.” Plans call for some 200,000 square feet of research facilities and academic classrooms, as well as administrative offices, retail and event space. The first graduate programs are expected to launch in existing facilities in the fall of 2026, with new construction commencing in late 2027. u

visitation showed sizable growth, with the United Kingdom and Ireland being especially strong for travelers arriving in Florida. Overall, the state welcomed some 143.33 million visitors last year, an increase of 0.2% from 2024 and a record high for Florida. First quarter 2026 estimates show nearly 40 million visitors from January through March.

J As debate over U.S. military action against Iran intensified, a report for the Institute for Governance and Civics at Florida State University finds that most Americans believe presidents should obtain congressional approval before using military force. Key findings of the report, released in April, show roughly 70% of Americans say presidents should obtain congressional approval before taking military action, down from 86% who said so in 2013. Not surprising, the divide between political parties was wide. 90% of Democrats favor requiring congressional approval, compared to 48% of Republicans. u

ROOMS WITH A VIEW

River City Brewing Co. closed in 2021. The waterfront site has sat mostly quiet since then. However, that is changing with the development of a $150-million, two residential apartment complex with approximately 390 units ranging from studios to three-bedrooms, a riverfront restaurant and a nine-level parking garage, constructed by Miami-based Related Group (developer of the Azure Oceanfront Residences in Jax Beach). In addition, plans call for a 29-slip marina and a boat ramp dipping into the St. Johns. Also, the developer has pledged to create public park space next to Friendship Fountain and provide maintenance for it. Proposed amenities include a 25th-floor rooftop lounge and bar, as well as a spa, fitness center and an outdoor pool. u

CHEW ON THIS

WHAT’S NEW AND NOTEWORTHY IN LOCAL FOOD AND DRINK

Oxford Place restaurant recently debuted at tiny Ortega Village. Located inside a restored historic building—a neighborhood landmark, really—along Corinthian Avenue, Oxford Place serves dinner nightly and Sunday brunch. A concise menu has an upscale Southern flair with Vidalia onion soup, cast iron skillet cornbread with honey butter ($10), and beef tenderloin with creamed spinach and peppercorn sauce ($42).

 The city’s newest Whole Foods Market opened in May at 1 Riverside Ave. The 38,000 square foot store offers more than 800 items and brands sourced from Florida (Key West smoked fish, Cedar Key Seafarms littleneck clams, Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops, among others). Inside, the market’s design with vertical wooden slat walls pay homage to the vertical lines of the Florida Times-Union building that previously sat on the property.

 Downtown St. Augustine welcomed 17 King American Bistro in May. Owner Gary McGeddy brought on chef Landry Wyatt to create an elevated menu with items such as grilled shrimp polenta, pan-

Florida, 341 across the country.

 Also, The Floridian has opened at its new 120-seat St. Augustine Beach location at SR 312 and Hwy. A1A. The new spot features indoor and outdoor seating and diners can expect the same farm-to-table, made-from scratch eats that made Genie and Jeff McNally’s original Spanish Street locale such a hit.



Order up! The Jacksonville City Council is considering legislation to allocate up to $35 million to support development of a Culinary Institute of America campus in Downtown. The city’s urban core is slowly becoming a magnet for higher education, with JU’s College of Law, UNF at MOCA Jacksonville and a new UF graduate campus already in works.

seared crispy chicken, and duck pappardelle. The interior is highlighted by a wine library and tasting table where patrons can purchase bottles to take home. Serving lunch and dinner daily, as well as live music.

 Speaking of St. Augustine: Northeast Florida’s first White Castle restaurant is in the works on a parcel near the Walmart Supercenter off International Golf Parkway and Hwy. 16, south of Tocoi Creek High School. The fast-food slider chain presently operates three restaurant in

17 King American Bistro

First Saturday Brews rolls on through the summer at Riverside Arts Market. Patrons can enjoy $5 beers from local fave Fishwier Brewing Co all day. Grab a cold pint, peruse the vendor tents, and then test your IQ with trivia from the main stage 1:30 PM.

For the first time, the prestigious Florida Michelin Guide covered the entire state as part of its annual dining awards and recognition. This year, nine First Coast restaurants were “Recommended” in the Guide . None received the prized one-, two- or three-star honor, but among those featured are two San Marco standouts, The Bearded Pig and Rue Saint Marc , Salt at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, and Lotus Noodle Bar , Bar Citra and Asado Life in St. Augustine. Congrats to all! u

Patriot Games

THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION AND ITS PLACE IN NORTHEAST FLORIDA

BY TIM GILMORE

When you think of the American Revolution, which lasted from 1775 to 1783, you might picture Paul Revere’s midnight ride or George Washington crossing the Delaware. You might hear Nathan Hale saying, “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.” Most likely, you don’t think of Florida, though the southernmost battle of the Revolutionary War took place right here in Duval County. If you know where to look, however, you can see the signs, though you might have to squint pretty hard.

You could start from the lookout stand off the Willie Browne Trail in the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve and peer over the grasses of Round Marsh. Sadly, the idea that it’s the site of a meteor strike has largely been debunked. More likely, Round Marsh is the remains of a rice paddy planted by British Loyalists at their short-lived settlement called St. Johns Town during the Revolutionary War.

Archaeologist William Jones once said it didn’t surprise him that some folks felt the woods here were haunted. “Quite likely,” he

said, “the early French from Fort Caroline, the Spanish adventurers from St. Augustine, the British from St. Johns Town, and the Union and Confederate soldiers, all during their time, roamed these very grounds.”

St. Johns Town was the slapdash and haphazard creation of Loyalists who fled to East Florida from Georgia and the Carolinas. Great Britain had split Florida into two colonies, East and West, when the Treaty of Paris ended the Seven Years War in 1763. The British controlled Florida for 20 years, the

Spanish for much longer on either side of that time. During the American Revolution, about 12,000 Brits hid out in East Florida.

Park rangers Dan Tardona and Craig Morris once cut their way through the jungle around Round Marsh to a spit of land called Pirate’s Point. It took most of a day. They found tabby remains no historian or archaeologist has ever definitively identified. They thought maybe they’d found the ruins of St. Johns Town, but just like the long-vanished Fort Caroline, its actual whereabouts will probably remain forever unknown.

Certainly you don’t have to squint to see the Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine, though it’s technically not an American Revolutionary monument. Its construction by the Spanish preceded the Revolutionary War by a century and the British occupation seems mostly a blip. The Brits called it Fort St. Mark and at the outbreak of the Revolution, they used it to take refuge, store weapons, house soldiers and imprison rebels. The Continental Army never got around to attacking the fort and when the war ended, Florida fell back to the Spanish.

Florida’s wartime importance to Great Britain came from its status as a Loyalist

Continued on page 20

Something Old in Something New

“I’ve always been fascinated by how often St. Augustine is treated as a charming side note instead of what it truly is—America’s oldest continuously occupied city,” says author Betsi Hill. “The more time I spend there, the more I realize how much of our national story begins in St. Augustine but isn’t widely understood. I wanted to write a book that brings those early stories forward in a way that feels accessible, grounded and meaningful.” So, that’s exactly what she did. Her new book Oldest St. Augustine (Reedy Press, $24) is a guidebook detailing the places and, more importantly, the people who helped shape the Oldest City going back to Pedro Menendez, Henry Flagler and the various pirates, Spanish soldiers, African freedmen who walked the cobblestone streets in years past. The 192-page paperback is laced with dozens of black and white photos of historical points of interest such as the Freedom Bell on Cordova Street, Memorial Presbyterian Church and Florida School for the Deaf and Blind. u

holdout while colonies to the north rebelled and from its connection to British colonies in the Caribbean, essential for supplying food, weaponry and additional troops. The Continental Army made three miniscule attempts to capture Florida. General Washington had planned five. Major General Charles Lee and Major General Robert Howe led a foray from Savannah toward St. Augustine in August 1776, but troops deserted and the residual expedition ran out of supplies. The Continentals at least made it to Florida for the Battle of Thomas Creek on May 17, 1777, though they soon retreated. Another attempt in 1778 ended in retreat at the Battle of Alligator Bridge.

You don’t have to squint at Thomas Creek, as long as you find the Florida Heritage Site marker. The Thomas Creek Preserve and Fish Camp is part of the Timucuan Preserve and the creek forms a boundary between Duval and Nassau Counties. Lead musket balls must still lie buried in the muck. The British had intercepted a Continental Army flotilla before it could connect as planned with 109 members of the Georgia Militia traveling by land from Georgia. Now a band of British Loyalists and Muscogee Indians ambushed the militiamen.

The casualty counts disagree. Various reports claim that between three and eight Georgians died and between 31 and 40 were captured. The counts agree on nine militiamen being injured. Of those captured, the Muscogee soon afterward killed 15 or more. Loyalists stole militia leader John Baker’s horse, while he escaped into the swamp, later making his way to Amelia Island. Historians consider the skirmish the southernmost battle of the American Revolution.

Alligator Creek Bridge lay just barely to the north. In June 1778, Georgia militiamen chased British Loyalists into a larger group of British troops who pushed them back. Nine Continentals and five Loyalists died. An old marker in Callahan claims to stand at the site of the bridge and battle, but like St. Johns Town, the bridge’s actual whereabouts remain unknown and are probably unverifiable.

Later in ’78, the Continental Congress sent Naval Captain James Willing to extend an invitation to West Florida, which stretched all the way to the Mississippi River, to become the 14th state of the new nation. When West Florida showed no interest, Willing returned with soldiers and the goal of establishing West Florida’s neutrality. His plunder of West Florida plantations proved a poor tactic for convincing the colony to join.

As Spain was allied with France in support of the American Revolution (as the French Revolution began shortly after America’s ended), Florida was ceded back to Spain when the British lost. Florida wouldn’t become a U.S. territory until 1822, the year Jacksonville came into existence, and wouldn’t become a state until 1845.

If you scour the Northeast Florida landscape for signs of the Revolution during this summer’s Bisesquicentennial, you won’t find anything like Fort Ticonderoga in New York, or Independence Hall, where the Second Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776, or the Patriots of African Descent Monument at Valley Forge, but maybe you’ll find a musket ball in the muck at Thomas Creek or even a cannonball or tabby redoubt in the lost ruins of St. Johns Town. u

This fall, the Jacksonville Symphony will present the world premiere of a newly commissioned orchestral score for the 1926 silent film, The Flying Ace, performed live with a screening of the film in celebration of its 100th anniversary. The Flying Ace is the only surviving feature-length movie of the nine produced by Jacksonville’s Norman Studios, one of the first studios in the country dedicated to films featuring Black actors in leading roles portrayed with dignity rather than the stereotypes common in most mainstream films of the era.

Conducted by Music Director Courtney Lewis, the Symphony commissioned six composers—including lead composer Carlos Simon, as well as Kathryn Bostic and Levi Taylor—to create the new score, each writing music for one of the film’s six reels. Each will compose approximately ten minutes of music that will be synced with the film projected above the stage.

Filmed in Jacksonville’s Old Arlington neighborhood and in nearby Mayport, The Flying Ace stars Laurence Criner as Capt. Billy Stokes, a decorated World War I pilot who returns home to resume his work as a railroad detective. When a payroll agent disappears with a satchel containing $25,000, Stokes must solve the caper and rescue the heroine, Ruth Sawtelle, in a dramatic aviation showdown. The show goes on Saturday, November 14, inside Jacoby Symphony Hall. u

NUMBER$ GAME

WHAT’S BEEN SELLING LATELY IN NORTHEAST FLORIDA. AND FOR HOW MUCH.

J Julington Creek has a been a Fruit Cove fixture for more than 30 years. Some portions of the 5,700-home planned community were showing their age, in particular the neighborhood pool complex. To remedy that, Jax-based architecture/planning firm ELM recently completed the Tide Club, a $34million transformation of the pool complex and adjacent park. Now, residents can enjoy a resort-style pool with two water slides, an adult-only pool, and a ten-lane competition pool. The new, two-story, 10,762-square-foot clubhouse features event space, catering kitchen and meeting rooms. The next-door Treehouse Trails playground is complete with a multi-level treehouse, toddler play areas and lush native plantings. Oh, to be a kid again. u

Retail Therapy

SHOPPING IN SAVANNAH IS A TREASURE HUNT, IF YOU KNOW WHERE TO LOOK.

For Jax Maggie & Co, retail therapy in Savannah is always a good idea, especially when you know exactly where to shop. For the perfect treasure hunt, slip beyond the stores on River Street, past the trinket traps, and the “all you can eat” shrimp bucket dives, and into the part of the city that feels quieter, more layered, and distinctly Southern. Here, the options are more refined, a little eclectic, and entirely walkable.

For a variety of fabulous finds, start at The Fancy Pheasant. Located in two tiny brick bungalows, this boutique screams style without feeling touristy. Stocked to the brim with treasures created by local artisans, paintings inspired by area landmarks, jewelry, elevated home décor and even Savanah Bananas

merch, this niche spot celebrates creativity, craftsmanship and Southern flair.

For the ultimate bibliophile, E. Shaver Bookseller is a must. Much like the famed Shakespeare & Co in Paris or Nora Ephron's fictional Shop Around the Corner, the setting here feels like you’ve stumbled into a hidden literary paradise. You won’t want to rush. Wander and check out the giant collection of new, used, and vintage books. Relax in a cozy nook while previewing your picks or sit at the vintage typewriter and leave a message for future patrons. For fun, look for the shop’s four resident cats. Jax Maggie’s fave is Skimbleshanks. Spoiler alert…. they are likely snoozing in the windows.

For an antique fix that even Jim Williams

would love, simply cross the street to North of Forsyth Antiques. This elegant spot is an old-world dream that boasts a mix of fine local art (think spectacular coastal subjects), books, furniture, rugs, and vintage finds that are sure to bring a little instant pedigree into any home.

For all the bougie/boho fashionista feels, take the short walk to Red Clover. Here you’ll find a collection of unique pieces—all trendy, uber stylish and insanely affordable. The best part? Everything comes from indie and local designers.

Your next stop is just steps away. Satchel is a distinctive and unmistakably Savannah emporium. Everything here is handmade onsite. The store is filled with bespoke

leather goods that whisper luxury. Oversized totes and structured cross-bodies have unique patterns and surprisingly fun interior designs. You’ll also find smaller one-of-a-kind pieces like belts, bracelets, and wallets—everything here feels made, not manufactured.

And finally, the last stop—the one you save on purpose—The French Market. Not because it’s showy, but because it brings everything together. Inside, you’ll find a thoughtful mix of Savannah-made goods and small-batch treasures—jewelry, art, home pieces, essentials for the littles, and a basement stuffed with vintage French finds mixed with gracious home staples. As you make your way down (This is a religious experience for Maggie) you truly feel like you’ve entered a march aux puces (translation—market of fleas) on the Left Bank or your wealthy great aunt Eula’s estate sale. When you’ve finished, find a seat in the brocantes little café and review your day’s shopping finds. Treat yourself to some macarons, an iced honey lavender latte, or a glass of Prosecco. u

— Maggie

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

Home Away From Home

There is no shortage of overnight lodgings in the Georgia gem that is Savannah. Hotels, motels, airbnbs, historic B&Bs are sprinkled throughout the downtown area. Among the newest arrivals to the vacation scene is The Ann Savannah, an apartment-style hotel the offers travelers conveniences such as full kitchens, laundry and more in units up to four-bedroom suites. Situated around the corner from acclaimed The Grey restaurant and a few blocks from the Riverwalk, the location is ideal for exploring the city’s culinary scene, historic landmarks and its many signature parks. Ellis Square, SCAD Museum of Art, Plant Riverside District and Mercer Williams House are all within walking distance. Amenities include a fitness center, outdoor pool, two-hour complimentary bike rental, dog beds, valet parking and a small market it the lobby. u

It takes something special to get Floridians to venture into the heart of the Sunshine during July and August. The Central Florida heat can be sweltering. So, attractions like SeaWorld Orlando have to cater to visitor expectations by providing something more than the usual roller coasters, sea lions, dolphins and orcas. Running July 4 through August 23, the park hosts Bands, Brews & BBQ, a series of specials days and nights featuring live country and rock bands, craft beers and smoked meats. Of course, the famed killer whales and dolphins still swim and splash daily, and coasters including Penguin Trek, Mako and the floor-less Kraken continue to induce thrills and screams. Park tickets start at $60 per day. u

NAMES & FACES

Katie Ondrejicka, professionally known as Katie O., is a country singer/songwriter from Jax. She was a top 20 finalist on NBC’s The Voice and a Golden Ticket winner on American Idol She opens for the pop-country band Lonestar on July 26 at the Florida Theatre.

Congrats to Sporting Jax’s Ashlyn Puerta , who was recently named the Gainbridge Super League Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year for the 2025/2026 season, recording 12 goals and 7 assist during her first pro soccer season. Way to go, Ashlyn.

Meet Ozzie, a Jax pup who was recently named one of eleven finalists for Beggin' dog treats' nationwide Beggin' XI Top Dog contest, a promotion teamed with U.S. Men's Soccer for the World Cup. Suitably, his prize includes a package of treats. Who's a good boy, Ozzie? You are!

Tight end Nate Boerkircher is 6’4’’, 250 lbs., and is the Jags’ first pick (56th overall) in the 2026 NFL draft. His Texas A&M teammate DT Albert Regis was selected by the Jags with the 81st pick. Fans first chance to see them play a game in Jax is the second preseason contest, Friday, August 21, versus the Carolina Panthers. Duuuval!

Twin Ties Swimwear is the creation of sisters Allison and Brooke Shearer, 22-year-old twins who took a giant leap into the fashion biz. Their niche is highquality swimwear at an affordable price. Look for their Summer Spritz line at pools and the beach near you.

Just Do It

WORKING OUT, GETTING HEALTHIER NEED NOT BE A SOLO ENDEAVOR.

BY KAYLA BYRD

Exercise is the best forms of selfcare. Even in an era of GLP-1 medications for losing weight, working out and getting one’s body in motion is still the best way to feel better, be healthier. It clears your mind and makes you move your muscles in ways that improve flexibility, strength, and endurance. For many people, it’s a solitary activity focused on self-driven purpose and goals. For the co-founder of Cool Culture, Guido Diaz, it’s about creating a social setting where fitness fanatics can come together and find community.

“It was about bringing people together in a way that is a little bit different than what we're all used to,” says Diaz. “I grew up in Jacksonville, and the only way to meet people and get to do [something] social was around al-

cohol and the bar scene and things like that. For us, it was really about doing something that felt good, allowed you to connect with people, and have a good time doing it.”

While some enjoy going out to a wine bar or club to meet new people—and there is nothing wrong with that—there are others who don’t enjoy those spaces. Wading across a crowded bar in the hopes of making a new friend or connecting with a special someone, is not for everyone. Cool Culture connects people from across Jacksonville by allowing them to become acquainted over a shared hobby and fun activity.

One of the group’s latest events offered a unique dating experience created by the dating app company Hooked. This special experience helped connect singles who pri-

oritize wellness and set up possible matches with interested parties.

I attended one of their events on a hot April morning and, admittedly, was a little intimidated upon arriving. As a live DJ blasted upbeat music to a sea of wellness influencers and gym bros, I began to worry that I wouldn’t be able to keep up. I may enjoy an occasional jog and drop into a hot yoga class every now and then, but I felt out of my depth surrounded by people who make it a priority to work out with regularity.

Each Cool Culture event offers a variety of workout classes from local fitness studios. From a mat workout led by JetSet Pilates to a high intensity cardio session from Burn Bootcamp, people can choose how they want to start their mornings. But don’t let that scare

you away. Some of the organized gatherings feature lower intensity activities like a calming sound bath or yoga flow. They even have a ticket type that lets you get access to the space and vendors without the commitment of a strenuous workout.

When I ventured further into the venue after checking in, there was a mass of people enjoying the perks from local businesses, like healthy snacks, coffee, massage consults, B-12 injections, and eyebrow waxing. I passed by someone bathed under the glow of a red-light therapy treatment with their legs encased in cryotherapy boots. I felt like I was witnessing something out of a movie.

Soon, I reached the space my where my high-intensity interval training and yoga flow class was being held. I cautiously laid out my yoga mat and towel, ready to hide in the back of my class. Rather than sit in silence for the time until the class started, I complimented the sneakers of the girl who was setting up her own space next to me. Our small talk led into us cracking jokes and even sharing contact info so we would be able to meet up for other classes. It was at this moment that Cool Culture’s mission to foster meaningful friendships in the wellness space became clear.

Despite not being a workout enthusiast or Pilates princess, I was able to meet some of the kindest and most encouraging people. During my class, no one made me feel bad for having to stop and take a breather. The coach encouraged me to keep going when I could or make modifications to the exercise.

The events aren’t free, so be prepared to purchase a ticket beforehand. For the event I attended, the $32 ticket gave access to the workout classes and personalized attention from local vendors offering everything from free massages to healthy food. By presenting such a wide range of classes, participants tend to be more inclined to try workout classes they normally wouldn’t attempt at a fitness studio. “I think a lot of guys probably wouldn't be willing to take a Pilates class, but in this setting, I think it kind of lowers that threshold and allows people to get together in that way,” Diaz says. “So, for us, it's just really about bringing people together and doing it in a way that's reflective of the communities.”

Cool Culture outings have popped up all over Jacksonville, from golf courses in Palm Valley to historic event spaces in Springfield. A new event is announced most every month, giving the community something to look forward to. If you are planning to attend, make sure to hit the sauna and Instagram-famous cold plunge pool. Just don’t forget to bring a towel. u

The Atlantic hurricane season officially began June 1. It continues through the end of November, with peak season occurring from mid-August into late October. On average, there are about 14 named storms each year, with approximately three reaching major hurricane status, defined as Category 3 or higher. The 2025 season saw three storms reach Category 3 strength, but thankfully none of them made landfall in the U.S.—the first time since 2015.

“Though last season produced minimal activity in Florida, we remain extremely vulnerable to hurricanes and their associated hazards,” says Kevin Guthrie, Florida Division of Emergency Management executive director. “By taking small steps now to prepare, residents can make a significant difference in protecting lives and property.” Among the simple steps one can do to prepare in advance of a storm is assemble a disaster supply kit with supplies including medicine, batteries, personal documents and enough perishable food and water to last each family member at least seven days. Also, a good rule of thumb is keep vehicle fuel tanks at least halfway full to avoid gas lines as fowl weather approaches. u

Under the Sea

The Sunshine State’s sea turtle nesting season began in May, and the beaches of Northeast Florida lure several species of endangered or threatened sea turtles each year. As such, government agencies and local wildlife protection organizations are asking beach goers to be especially mindful this summer. Things to avoid include using fireworks at the beach (they are illegal, after all), don’t leave old chairs or sun canopies on the beach overnight, and never approach sea turtles emerging from or returning to the ocean. Nesting turtles are vulnerable, timid and easily frightened away. Also, never attempt to push an injured animal back into the ocean. Contact the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission in such cases. Nesting season ends October 31. u

Town and County

SAY GOODBYE TO CITY LIFE AND HEAD TO GREENER ACRES AROUND THE REGION.

BY KAYLA BYRD

Jacksonville, the largest city by square miles in the country, is known for being a big and expanding city, with neighborhoods stretching beyond the horizon in every direction. Paired with a packed calendar of events of all kinds, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the traffic, the Chick-fil-As, and urban distractions aplenty. This summer, Jax families can disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with the more rural side of Northeast Florida. Believe it or not, there’s acres and acres still out there.

A field of sunflowers is among nature’s wonders. It’s simply beautiful. For more than 76 years, the Conner family have worked the land, raising both plants and animals on their Conner’s A-Maizing Acres in Hilliard. In 2003, they opened up their farm to the public and have been seeing generations of families enjoy their quiet corner of Northeast Florida.

“Farm life is the best life that kids or anyone could grow up to have,” Eddie Conner, fifth-generation farmer and owner, says. “It's

work. I wouldn't trade it, you know, for nothing. And there's nothing now that tickles me more than seeing these kids come in here and have such big smiles on their faces. They always remember what they've seen. They might be in kindergarten. But in a few years, they’re liable to get married and have kids, and they bring their kids.”

Conner’s passion for welcoming in new faces to the farm was evident upon seeing him greet each person who entered his barn. Patrons are also welcomed by the squawks of peacocks and bleats from the baby sheep. A different type of greeting than you’re probably used to when navigating the city. The farm is also home to goats, chickens, horses, ducks, and a friendly dog—all of which seem eager to meet new friends.

Arguably the main attraction is the bright sunflowers visitors can cut straight from their tall stalks. By navigating down the neat rows of the golden flowers, you can hand select which flowers will make their way back to your

home. The farm even sells vases in which to carry your bouquet, so that you don’t have to clutch at the stems while enjoying the rest of the farm’s activities. One note of caution: Big, bright beautiful flowers do attract two pesky things—social media influencers and bees.

One of the more endearing parts of the farm are the photo stations they’ve created for families to be able to look back at for years to come. They have tractors, stylized pickup trucks, and wooden market stands where people can pose with their freshly cut flowers. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your Instagram feed or finally get a nice photo of your family against an idyllic backdrop, the open fields and sunlight will make these photos your new favorites.

In keeping with their family friendly atmosphere, the farm provides slides, giant rollers, pedal cars, tubs of corn you can walk around in, lassoing stations, and more. There are also food trucks and coffee stations to help fuel the fun.

For the aspiring gardener/farmer who is eager to get their hands dirty, The Williams Blueberry Farm, Blu By U Blueberry Farm, Kent’s Blueberry Farm, and Dowless Blueberry Farm are four u-pick-em local spots to try. These fields offer guests the opportunity to pick farm-fresh berries straight off the vine. Some of the farms even sell other homemade goods such as pastries and jams.

Picking blueberries can be a hot and tedious task with the occasional gnat flying in your face, but it’s worth it for the taste of the fresh berries. If you’re like me and want to make the most of the experience, snack on some of the berries and then use the rest of your bounty to bake fresh cobblers and muffins. It’s so rewarding to know that you’re not only supporting local business but also choosing fresh produce.

Those really dedicated to getting off the beaten path and immersing themselves in the experience can visit NuBerry Farms Located in

Early to Rise

Interlachen, these wide-spanning fields offers blackberry and blueberry picking.

If you’re not quite ready to commit to the ruggedness of hands-on farm labor, Congaree and Penn offers a bougier experience. Known for their farm-to-table dining experiences, guests flock to this slice of the city’s rural northwest for an evening of eats and drinks on the covered patio. While there’s no need to venture out into the fields, if you’d prefer not, there are a variety of agritourism experiences that open up your horizons to life on a farm.

Tess Sullivan, Hospitality and Agritourism Manager for Congaree and Penn, says, “We do offer farm tours, field trips, animal greets, lots of different wagon rides, and then a little combination of both, as well as different u-picks throughout the year for different fruit and plants growing.” Their u-picks include celestial figs and mayhaw, giving visitors the chance to see where the ingredients for their charcuterie boards are sourced.

B eing accepted into one of Florida’s public universities has never presented more of a challenge. The primary culprit? A virtual tidal wave of applications in recent years. After a record of nearly 100,000 applications and a 48% increase in first-year applications over the past five years, Florida State University has rolled out a new admissions plan for prospective undergraduate students applying for summer and fall 2027 semesters. FSU’s Office of Admissions has introduced a binding Early Decision option for domestic first-year applicants, expanding opportunities for students who have identified the university as their unequivocal first choice.

“Each year, more students tell us that FSU is their top-choice university, and they want to know how to indicate that on their admissions application,” says Hege Ferguson, assistant vice president for undergraduate admissions. “Early decision is a clear, transparent way to allow students to express that preference while giving them the benefit of an earlier admission decision and a streamlined application process.”

Within the state, FSU ranked No. 1 among public universities for student satisfaction and best value by The Princeton Review and No. 1 for best first-year experiences by U.S. News & World Report. Applications for Early Decision open August 1. u

“We have bungalows out on our property now, so you can do overnight stays here,” continues Sullivan. "We are doing something called the 11, which is ten-acre plots of land for sale, for homesteads. We have all kinds of different event spaces as well. There's just a little bit of everything for everyone, but you don't have to come here and spend a ton of money either. You could just come here and buy a farm pass and walk around, and typically you'll pet a goat or a chicken.”

The farm pass allows guests access to walk along the farm, lounge in their many seating options along the path, gaze upon a meandering stream, and be amongst the cows and quails on the property.

No matter how you choose to get out onto the farms of Northeast Florida, you will likely be met by some of the kindest and hardest-working folks, proud entrepreneurs who light up when they get to teach someone new about their passions and way of life. u

CHEAP DATES

What family doesn’t love a good bargain? This summer, the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens, home to more than 2,000 animals and 1,000 varieties of plants, is offering special discounted pricing on certain days, specifically every other Tuesday through August 4. Beginning in June, guests can visit the zoo for $10 per person. “$10 Tuesdays is a great way for families to experience everything the Zoo has to offer at an accessible price point,” says Nikki Smith, chief philanthropy and marketing officer. “We’re excited to welcome guests throughout the summer for a day of discovery, connection and fun.” Guests may upgrade their tickets to include additional access to attractions such as the 4D Theater, animal feedings and unlimited train and carousel rides. Remaining $10 Tuesdays include July 7 and 21 and August 4. The discounted admission is available at the Zoo entrance on event days. u

THE TO-DO LIST

NORTHEAST FLORIDA’S ENTERTAINMENT & CULTURAL AGENDA

Fourth of July

Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary and the Fourth of July at Riverfront Plaza in Downtown Jax for an evening of live music, family fun, art, food, and the largest Fourth of July fireworks show in River City history. From 4-9:30 PM, guests can enjoy entertainment and activities along the St. Johns River before the night concludes with a spectacular fireworks display beginning at 9 PM. In St. Augustine, America’s 250th with Fireworks Over the Matanzas (right) begins at 6 PM in the Plaza de la Constitución, with a two-hour concert featuring the AllStar Orchestra. At 9:30 PM, the sky lights up with a fireworks display over the bayfront and the Castillo de San Marcos.

JULY

THEATRE

Shrek The Musical

Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks film franchise, Shrek the Musical follows the unlikely hero Shrek as he sets out to rescue the feisty Princess Fiona, accompanied by a wisecracking Donkey and pursued by a kingdom of storybook chaos. Along the way, audiences discover that happily ever after comes in all shapes, sizes and shades of green. Presented through August 9 at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining.

THEATRE

Monty Python Edukational Revue

A collection of classic Monty Python sketches comes to the stage with a playful “edukational” twist, blending absurd humor with signature British irreverence. Presented by Amelia Musical Playhouse, the revue delivers a fast-paced evening of comedy drawn from the troupe’s most iconic material, staged various dates July 2-11, 7:30 PM, Amelia Musical Playhouse, $19–$30.

SHOPPING

Pool Party Summer Market

The Lightner Museum brings back its Pool Party Summer Market, a community shopping event held inside the historic hotel’s indoor pool (don’t worry, the water was drained years ago) July 3, 5:30-8 PM. Visitors can browse wares provided by local vendors, giveaways, a kids corner, photo booth, live music and more.

EXHIBITION

Art in Bloom

Art in Bloom brings together nature-inspired works of art, enhancing the Cummer Museum’s dialogue between interior galleries and its historic gardens. Coinciding with spring and summer, the exhibition celebrates how today’s artists are expanding the boundaries of floral art far beyond historic still-life paintings. Works from the museum’s permanent collection and exciting loans from contemporary artists create a dynamic exploration of this wellknown style, at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens through September 13.

SPORT

Jacksonville Waves

The Jacksonville Waves are the city’s newest professional women’s team

playing basketball inside VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena as part of the Upshot League. The Waves crash the boards July 3, 5, 17, 19, 23 and 31 and August 7, 8, 12, 19, $24-$114.

MUSIC

Red, White and Boots

The Jacksonville Zoo’s summertime Tunes and Blooms after-hours music series continues with a special celebration of the nation’s birthday, Red, White and Boots, featuring Bill Ricci, 7th Street Band, Austin Vernon, and the Bryce Allastair Band July 3, 6-9:30 PM.

EXHIBITION

Alex Devereux: The American Traveler

From the mythology of the open road to the enduring allure of Route 66, travel functions as both a literal journey and a powerful symbol of the American Dream. Devereux explores this ethos through iconic imagery such as cars idling beneath neon signs, train tracks fading into distant horizons, and roadside architecture poised between past prosperity and present decline. On display at the Lightner Museum through August 15

SPORT

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp

Shrimp season rolls into summer with the AAA baseball squad playing Southeast rivals including the Nashville Sounds, Memphis Redbirds and others July 7-11 and 26-31, and August 1-2, 11-16 and 2530, at VyStar Ballpark. First pitch for most games is 7:05 PM, $8-$140.

FUNDRAISER

Florida Theatre Casino Night

Place your bets and raise your glass! All in for the Arts: Florida Theatre Casino Night brings the thrill of Las Vegas to one of Jacksonville’s most iconic venues. Enjoy an evening featuring casino games, hors d’oeuvres, prize drawings, and cocktails for a cause July 9, 6 PM, $125-$175.

FILM

Moana

Proving once again Disney has run out of new ideas, the live-action adaptation of the 2016 animated flick Moana returns to the big screen this summer, staring Catherine Laga’aia, Dwayne Johnson and John Tui. It opens only in theaters July 10.

RUNNING

Bridge of Lions 5 K

On July 11, one of the First Coast most popular summer races welcomes runners and walkers alike to St. Augustine. The course begins at the Castillo de San Marcos, crosses the Bridge of Lions, and finishes in the Davis Shores neighborhood.

SPORT

St. Augustine Sardines

Did you know there is a semi-pro baseball team based in St. Augustine? There is, a collegiate summer wood bat baseball team competing in the Orange State League. Playing its home games at St. Joseph’s Catholic Academy ballpark, the team features top college players from across the country who spend the summer honing their skills in a competitive wood bat environment. As part of the Orange State League, the team is committed to player development, sportsmanship, and providing a professional-level experience for athletes preparing for the next step in their baseball careers. The Sardines play home games July 12, 18, 21, 22 and 25, 5 and 7 PM starts, $6-$12.

EXHIBITION

Right Whales of Amelia Island

Looking out from Amelia Island’s beaches, the coastal waters of Southeast Georgia and Northeast Florida host the only calving grounds for the endangered North Atlantic right whale. This traveling

exhibition explores their hunted history and fragile future. Fewer than 400 remain. “Right Whales of Amelia Island,” was created by the Amelia Island Right Whale Ambassadors, whose mission is to protect the whales through awareness, and is on display at the Beaches Museum through August 26.

MUSIC

Rodney Atkins

Rodney Atkins has charted at least one radio single at Country Radio in three different decades all while being on the same record label. He is an artist with multi-generational impact—including parents who are now grandparents, and adults who first heard Rodney while eating a Happy Meal in their booster seat. Atkins plays July 17, 7:30 PM, at Thrasher-Horner Center, $47$101 (Happy Meal not included).

SPORT

Sporting Club Jax

The excitement of the World Cup continues—albeit on a much smaller scale—as Sporting Club Jax men’s squad continues its inaugural USL Championship league run with home games July 15 versus the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, July 18 against Brooklyn FC, August 15 versus Indy Eleven, and September 5 against Lexington SC, at Hodges Stadium on the UNF campus. Most matches start at 7 PM, $15-$55.

SPORT

Jacksonville Sharks

The Sharks are turning up the energy for Red Out Night July 18 versus the Iowa Barnstormers. Patrons are asked to show their Sharks pride and join fans in wearing red as they light up the stands and cheer on the hometown arena football team, 7 PM, at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. The season closes with Military Appreciation Night and a final home game versus the Green Bay Blizzard July 26, 7:30 PM, $25-$191.

MUSIC

Jacksonville Rock Orchestra

The Music of Green Day is a brand-new symphonic production celebrating the five-time Grammy Award–winning punk band. Experience Green Day’s biggest hits like never before reimagined and performed live with a full orchestra, powerful rock band, and dynamic vocalists July 18, 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $54-$104.

TV World Cup Final

The six-week global soccer tournament comes to a climax with arguably the biggest single-day sporting event on the planet, set for July 19, 3 PM, on FOX TV. Will the USA be one of the two teams? Not likely, but one never knows. U… S… A…!

EXHIBITION

Outside Looking In:

The Paintings of Amer Kobaslija

MOCA Jacksonville presents a major survey of works by locally based, international artist Amer Kobaslija. Throughout his career, Kobaslija has depicted his surroundings with virtuosity and wit, displaying a keen eye for detail, informed by a deep understanding of the history of art. Embedded in his work is the search for a sense of place, reflected in the organization of his output in series that describe his nomadic life. He likes to quote Tolstoy: “Paint your own village and you will paint the world.” On display through September 20.

MUSIC

The Yacht Rock Summer Tour

Pablo Cruise reached the top 10 with mega hits “Whatcha Gonna Do When She Says Goodbye?” and “Love Will Find A Way.” After a long hiatus (over 25 years), the band is back on tour—featuring three of the original founders: David Jenkins (guitar, vocals), Cory Lerios (keys, vocals) and Steve Price (drums, percussion)— coming to Downtown July 24, 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $57-$84.

MUSIC

Cody Johnson

Get your ‘Work Boots’ ready, Cody Johnson is coming back to perform in Jax. Twice, actually. No, Cody Johnson and Jelly Roll are not brothers, though they are very

close friends and frequent collaborators in the country music industry, or so says AI. Listen for “’Til You Can’t,” “Dirt Cheap” and “Human” and other songs July 24 and 25, 7:30 PM, inside VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $85-$376.

MUSIC

Summer Concert with LPT

Get ready for a high-energy summer night as Jacksonville’s powerhouse salsa band LPT brings their irresistible rhythm to the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. Feel the music, move with the crowd, and dance the night away as the band fills the night with a vibrant sound July 25, 6:308:30 PM, $45-$60.

DANCE

Jacksonville Dance Theatre

Jacksonville Dance Theatre and the Florida State College at Jacksonville Dance Department are pleased to announce the return of its week-long summer inten -

sive SHAPE/SHIFT, for professional and pre-professional dancers ages 16 and up. SHAPE/SHIFT is a five-day deep dive into contemporary modern dance techniques and an exploration of composition, improvisation and choreography, culminating in a publicly staged performance July 27-31, at Florida State College at Jacksonville South Campus, $550 per participant.

MUSIC

The Black Keys

Emerging in the early 2000s, the Black Keys (Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney) built their reputation on a raw, blues-driven sound rooted in gritty guitar riffs, pounding drums, and soulful vocals. What began as self-recorded albums in basements and small studios quickly evolved into one of the most influential modern rock acts of the past two decades. Hear them July 29, 7 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $88-$162.

AUGUST

MUSIC

Ship Fest White Attire Party

Lucky Duck Promotions brings back its annual Ship Fest aboard the USS Orleck, transforming the historic US Navy vessel into a multi-level party experience. Guests (18+) can explore three stages featuring house music, dueling DJs and a 360-degree “boiler room” setup, dressed in allwhite attire August 1, 6-10 PM, Jacksonville Naval Museum. $13–$230.

FILM

LOL JAX Film Festival Part X

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the LOL JAX Film Festival returns to spotlight Northeast Florida’s creative talent across film, comedy and music. Hosted by Jenn Weeks, the evenings include screenings, local vendors and food trucks, along with opportunities to connect with fellow filmmakers August 1-2, 6-10 PM, WJCT Studios, $34.

SPORT

Dude Perfect

The Dude Perfect: Squad Games Tour is headed to 22 cities this summer, including Jax. This new tour is filled with larger than life battles, unexpected twists and for the first time ever—the entire floor will be the

Continued on page 38

Seen

The Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville hosted its 49th annual Arts Awards on May 9 at the downtown nightclub, Decca Live. This year’s event featured a Neon Noir theme that celebrated the people and organizations who “light the way.” Former news anchor John Bachman served as emcee and following the presentation of the night’s honors, DJ Disco Cowboy called partygoers to the dance floor. u

COMING SOON:

• The Beaches Museum honors this year’s class of Beaches Legends—the Proctor Family, Bill Longenecker and Karen Wolfson—at the museum’s premier annual fundraiser September 18, 6:30 PM, at the TPC Sawgrass clubhouse. Tickets start at $200.

• The FSCJ Foundation celebrates Florida State College at Jacksonville’s Diamond Anniversary Gala on Friday, October 2, at the Florida Blue Conference Center. The evening promises fine dining, live entertainment, and student stories celebrating 60 years of local impact. Individual tickets and table purchases offered.

The Duval County Medical Society hosted its inaugural Residents Graduation Gala on May 30. The event was dedicated to honoring the region’s medical residents with a spotlight on the class of 2026 from programs in the Jacksonville area including Ascension St. Vincent’s, Mayo Clinic Florida, Naval Hospital Jacksonville, HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital, and UF College of Health-Jacksonville. u

battle zone with full 360° seating available August 2, 6 PM, at Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena, $30-$180.

TV Ted Lasso

The upcoming season picks up with Ted returning to Richmond to take on a fresh challenge, namely coaching a second division women’s football (soccer to us Americans) team. Fan-favorite cast members including Jason Sudeikis, Hannah Waddingham and Juno Temple are all slated to return. Premiering August 5 on Apple TV.

MUSIC

The Fray

Following a decade-long hiatus, The Fray returned in 2024 and continued their next chapter with the release of a new album, A Light That Waits, which arrived earlier this spring. The multi-Platinum-selling band, composed of lead vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter Joe King, guitarist Dave Welsh, and drummer Ben Wysocki, plays August 8, 6:30 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $37-$116.

MUSIC

Songs of Patsy Cline

One of the all-time legends of country music, Patsy Cline will always be remembered by the hit songs “I Fall to Pieces,” “Sweet Dreams” and “Crazy,” to name a few. Although Patsy will never be replaced, Gail Bliss: The Songs of Patsy Cline, is a tribute to her spirit and a celebration of the music of her life. Bliss is backed by an authentic six-piece honky tonk band during this engaging two hour concert, August 12-16, at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining, $89 includes dinner.

KIDSTUFF

The Wiggles

Kids and parents are invited to join in this all-ages celebration featuring the Wiggles biggest hits and sing-along moments from all your favorites including “Rock-A-Bye Your Bear,” “Fruit Salad Yummy Yummy” and “Hot Potato!” on August 13, 6 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $43-$231.

MUSIC

Barry Manilow

Cancer couldn’t keep the 83-year-old singer/writer of “Copacabana,” “Mandy” and “Can’t Smile Without You” down for long. This show is being billed as

his “Last Jacksonville Concert,” set for August 13, 7 PM, at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $43-201.

FILM

The End of Oak Street

The Platt family bands together to navigate their new surroundings after a cosmic event transports their suburban neighborhood to someplace unknown—or, as its called in Jax, East Arlington. Starring Anne Hathaway and Ewan McGregor and opening August 14.

MUSIC

Romours ATL:

A Fleetwood Mac Tribute

With a reverence for the legendary group’s history, Rumours ATL captures the magic of Fleetwood Mac’s iconic sound. From the hauntingly beautiful melodies of “Rhiannon” and “Songbird” to the electrifying energy of “Go Your Own Way,” every performance is a journey through the classics that defined a generation. It continues August 14, 7:30 PM, at the Thrasher-Horne Center, $37-$79.

SPORT

Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars will kick off the preseason August 15 on the road at New Orleans before returning for a two-game homestand at EverBank Stadium to host the Carolina Panthers (August 21, 7:30 PM) and Tampa Bay Buccaneers (August 28, 7:30 PM).

MUSIC

KPop Demon Hunters Experience

Inspired by the colorful world and high-energy fun of KPop Demon Hunters, this all-ages event is your chance to sing, dance, and celebrate. This fan experience blends pop culture, music, and interactive fun with a K-pop beat August 22, 6 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $50-$64.

MUSIC

Buddy Guy

At 90 years old, Buddy Guy remains a force in American music. Fresh off earning his ninth Grammy Award in 2026 for Best

Traditional Blues Album (Ain’t Done with the Blues), the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee and one of the last living architects of electric blues celebrates a historic milestone with the Buddy Guy 90 Tour, coming to the Oldest City (fitting for the nonagenarian, don’t you think?) August 22, 7:30 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $60-$162.

Starship

MUSIC

Starship

In 1979, Mickey Thomas joined Jefferson Starship as the lead vocalist and recorded a string of hits, including “Find Your Way Back,” and “Layin’ It On The Line.” The group was renamed STARSHIP in 1985 and went on to record three #1 hit songs, including “We Built This City,” “Sara,” and “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now.” Thomas and company play August 23, 7 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $60-$92.

MUSIC

Benson Boone

In 2021, Boone dropped the emotional breakup ballad “Ghost Town,” which amassed more than 530 million streams and became his first entry on the Billboard Hot 100. Heartbreak also shaped the soaring follow-up, “In The Stars,” which proved to be an even bigger hit. Boone performs August 25, 8 PM, at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $79-$568. u

The Human Race

PHOTOS BY MORGAN CALENBERG

There’s an old idiom that, “there’s no rest for the weary.” Those six words were never more true than on Saturday, May 16, the day the city hosted its inaugural Ironman Jacksonville triathlon.

Approximately 2,000 athletes braved the waters of the St. Johns River and the streets of Ponte Vedra Beach, Riverside and Downtown. In all, participants had to navigate and survive a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2-mile run.

The first leg was a swim up the St. Johns, starting at Metro Park and stroking under the Main Street, Acosta and Fuller Warren bridges to an exit point at Post Street near the Cummer Museum of Art. Here, racers transitioned to their bikes and riding gear, preparing to pedal out to Ponte Vedra Beach and back—twice. If still able, racers then swapped their bikes for running shoes and set off for full marathon on a route that looped through Riverside and Downtown.

The grueling, 140.6-mile race was won by Pedro Gomes of Portugal with a time of 8:30:41. The USA’s Jennifer Sylva won the women’s division, crossing the finish line with a time of 9:42:14. The day’s heat and distance took a toll on many participants, with some 500 racers unable to make it to the end at Riverfront Plaza.

Truly an all-day affair, shuttles for athletes and volunteers began operating at 4 AM Saturday morning. The first group of swimmers hit the water at 7:30 AM, part of staggered start times that lasted more than an hour. Ironman cut-off rules state a racer has a maximum of 17 hours to complete the course from the moment entering the water. The last official racer crossed the finish line shortly before midnight.

The race returns next year, as the City of Jacksonville has already agreed to host Ironman again in 2027 and 2028. Better start training now. u

TOP DOCTORS 2026

A comprehensive list of the region’s leading physicians, board-certified plastic surgeons, standout cosmetic dentists and other medical professionals who bind our wounds, heal our hearts and give us care.

Jacksonville boasts a historically significant medical community, a group of professionals that today follows in the footsteps of some true pioneers. In fact, the Duval County Medical Society (DCMS) was founded 172 years ago, more than 20 years before there was a Florida Medical Association—which also was established here in 1874. On May 25, 1853, a group of less than ten local doctors got together to create an organization dedicated to caring for the community as a whole, and not just individual patients. These noble physicians were frontline veterans of Northeast Florida medicine, enduring waves of smallpox, dengue fever, malaria and other diseases that had taken a toll on the region. Weary of the situation, they understood change was sorely needed.

Charter member Dr. H.D. Holland became

the city’s first physician mayor in 1852. Another founding member, Dr. Abel Baldwin, would become the first president of the Florida Medical Association. As forward-thinking and dedicated as those early members of the Society were, it’s doubtful any of them could have imagined how large and innovative Jacksonville’s medical community would become. Could they have ever envisioned the sheer scope of the Mayo Clinic in Florida campus near the Intracoastal Waterway? What would they think of helicopter air ambulances racing through the sky? How would they marvel at an MRI machine or proton radiation therapy or ceramic joint replacement components? Likely, it would be beyond science fiction to them.

Today, the DCMS counts more than 2,000 physicians as members. Northeast Florida benefits from their expertise, education

and compassion in countless ways. However, having such a large medical community can bring degrees of confusion among patients. After all, when there are so many choices, making a decision can be a challenge.

In an effort to help alleviate some of the angst experienced by Northeast Floridians seeking medical assistance, Jacksonville Magazine has partnered with Castle Connolly Top Doctors to compile a list of area physicians rated best by their peers. While the following pages are in no way a complete accounting of all the exemplary doctors practicing in our region, the list may be considered a good starting point, a handy reference for you to begin your next search for a medical professional in whom you would trust your friends, family and loved ones.

JACKSONVILLE MAGAZINE’S

TOP DOCTORS

FOR 2026

ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY

Patrick J. DeMarco

Allergy & Asthma Specialists of North Florida

Steve M. Dorman Jr. Family Allergy & Asthma Consultants

Sunil N. Joshi Family Allergy & Asthma Consultants

Hary T. Katz Family Allergy & Asthma Consultants

Thomas A. Lupoli

Allergy & Asthma Specialists of North Florida

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Sanjay Swami

First Coast Allergy & Asthma

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Raquel S. Watkins

Watkins Allergy & Asthma Clinic

ANESTHESIOLOGY

Ryan M. Chadha Mayo Clinic

Klaus D. Torp Mayo Clinic

CARDIAC ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY

Fred M. Kusumoto Mayo Clinic

Robert A. Luke

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside Riverside & St. Johns Co.

Anthony R. Magnano

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside,

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

Matthew S. McKillop

Baptist Heart Specialists

Baptist Medical Center South,

Jay R. Patterson

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Clay County

CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE

Marcus J. Cox

Baptist Heart Specialists

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Omar F. Dajani

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Clay County

Thomas R. Flipse Mayo Clinic

Ruple Galani

Baptist Heart Specialists

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Samer M. Garas

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

Ragu Murthy Well & You

Amy W. Pollak

Mayo Clinic

Pamela Rama

Baptist Heart Specialists

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Russell B. Stapleton III

Baptist Heart Specialists

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

Gladys P. Velarde

UF Health Cardiovascular Center

UF Health Jacksonville

CHILD & ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY

Michael J. De La Hunt

Baptist Behavioral Health

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Barbara L. Gracious

HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

CHILD NEUROLOGY

Harry S. Abram

Nemours Children’s Health

Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

COLON & RECTAL SURGERY

Ron G. Landmann

Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville,

Baptist Medical Center South

DERMATOLOGY

Robert G. Brown

Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery

Stephanie Carstens

Total Dermatology Care Center

Scott W. Fosko

UF Health Dermatology

UF Health Jacksonville

UF Health Shands Hospital

Josep Genebriera

Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery

Russell D. Metz Beaches Dermatology

George J. Schmieder Park Avenue Dermatology

Jennifer Schoch

UF Health Dermatology

UF Health Jacksonville

Elisha M. Singer Mayo Clinic

Kristen Stewart

Total Dermatology Care Center

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South Wolfson Children’s Hospital

DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGY

Kathryn Pearson Boutique Breast Imaging

Jeffrey J. Peterson

Mayo Clinic

Gaelyn E. Scuderi

Ackerman Cancer Center

Baptist Medical Center Nassau

Justin T. Stowell

Mayo Clinic

Richard D. White

Mayo Clinic

EMERGENCY MEDICINE

Travis A. Smith

Ryan Griffin MD Concierge Medicine UF Health Flagler Hospital

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

ENDOCRINOLOGY, DIABETES & METABOLISM

Ejigayehu G. Abate Mayo Clinic

Salwa Ayad

Northeast Florida Endocrine & Diabetes Associates

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Alice Y. Chang Mayo Clinic

Joe M. Chehade

UF Health Endocrinology

UF Health Jacksonville

Wasim E. Deeb

First Choice Endocrinology

Arpeta Gupta

Millennium Physician Group

Akshaya Kambhatla

Northeast Florida Endocrine & Diabetes Associates

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South UF Health Flagler

Christian A. Koch

UF Health Endocrinology

UF Health Jacksonville

J. Sample Magee

Northeast Florida Endocrine & Diabetes Associates

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Ricardo A. Silva

Northeast Florida Endocrine & Diabetes Associates

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside, Clay County & St. Johns County

HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

Baptist Medical Centers Beaches, Clay County, Jacksonville, Nassau & South

Senan Sultan

Northeast Florida Endocrine

& Diabetes Associates

Baptist Medical Centers Jacksonville, South, Beaches, Nassau & Clay County

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside, Clay County & St. Johns County HCA Florida Orange Park

FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY / OTOLARYNGOLOGY

Roberto E. Garcia

Contoura Facial Plastic Surgery

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Scott Trimas

Beaches Facial Plastic

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Baptist Medical Center Nassau

FAMILY MEDICINE

Charmaine Aguirre Millennium Physician Group

Patricia Calhoun

Baptist Primary Care

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Jing-Jing Cardona

Cardona Direct Primary Care & RefineMD Aesthetics

Perry Carlos

Baptist Primary Care

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Sarfaraz S. Dhanji

Magnus Direct Primary Care

Boyd Evans, Jr.

Millennium Physician Group

Sharon L. Reinertsen Garland

Cardona Direct Primary Care & RefineMD Aesthetics

Denise Ginart

Baptist Primary Care Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Brian H. Grimard Mayo Clinic

Charles Haddad Millennium Physician Group

Marylin P. James Haven Family Health

John K. Lambrix

Ascension St. Vincent’s Internal Medicine

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

Christopher Scuderi

Millennium Physician Group

Michael B. Till

Baptist Primary Care

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Floyd B. Willis

Mayo Clinic

GASTROENTEROLOGY

Timothy J. Cavacini

Borland Groover

UF Health Flagler Hospital

Linda A. Di Teodoro

Borland Groover

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Francis A. Farraye Mayo Clinic

Daniel J. Gassert

Borland Groover

UF Health Flagler Hospital

Vikram D. Gopal

Borland Groover

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

Michael E. Herman

Borland Groover

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

Ali M. Lankarani

Borland Groover

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Dinesh Madhok

Borland Groover

HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

Michael F. Picco

Mayo Clinic

Douglas L. Riegert-Johnson

Mayo Clinic

Barry G. Rosser, Jr.

Mayo Clinic

James S. Scolapio

UF Health Gastroenterology

UF Health Jacksonville

Stuart A. Soroka

Borland Groover

UF Health Flagler Hospital

Mihir S. Wagh

Mayo Clinic

Timothy A. Woodward

Mayo Clinic

GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY

Martin A. Martino

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

HAND SURGERY

Peter M. Murray Mayo Clinic

INTERNAL MEDICINE

Louis Akra

Akra Professional Services

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Gerald Burford

Millennium Physician Group

Graciela Diez-Hoeck

Baptist Primary Care

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Linda R. Edwards

UF Health General Medicine

UF Health Jacksonville

COSMETIC DENTISTS

NRajesh Gopal

Baptist Primary Care

Baptist Medical Center South

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Catherine C. Madaffari

Mayo Clinic

Barbara I. Rappaport

Jax Aesthetics & Wellness Center

Elias Saikali

Millennium Physician Group

Alejandro I. Traveria

Baptist Primary Care

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY

Calvin Y. Choi

UF Health Cardiovascular Center

UF Health Shands Hospital

UF Health Jacksonville

Ruby Satpathy

Baptist Heart Specialists

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

MATERNAL & FETAL MEDICINE

Isaac Delke

UF Health Women’s Specialists

UF Health Jacksonville

Francisco Gaudier

Regional Obstetric Consultants

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

Jill Mauldin

Regional Obstetric Consultants

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Ascension St. Vincent’s South

MEDICAL ONCOLOGY

Pooja P. Advani

Mayo Clinic

early 40 years ago, 60 dentists assembled to form an organization devoted to the art and science of cosmetic dentistry. From this gathering of individual practitioners, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) has matured into the world’s largest organization for cosmetic dental professionals. The AACD now includes more than 6,000 practitioners, educators, researchers and laboratory technicians from 70 countries worldwide. The organization is dedicated to advancing excellence in the art and science of cosmetic dentistry and encouraging the highest standards of ethical conduct and responsible patient care.

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

John F. Bibb, DDS

Eric S. Burgess, DMD

Broc Flores, DMD

Blanca Martinez-Hoppe, DMD

Jose M. Martinez, DMD, PA

Jonathan Aalona Montoya, DDS

Megan Moshea, DDS

Jason S. Olitsky, DMD, AAACD

Richard A. Perallon, DMD

Susan Prater-Kudlats, DMD

Paul Robert, CDT

FAST FORWARD

Stroke remains a leading cause of serious disability and death in the U.S., but recognizing symptoms quickly and seeking immediate medical attention can dramatically improve outcomes. “Time is brain when it comes to stroke treatment,” says Josephine Huang M.D., a Mayo Clinic neurologist. “The sooner a person receives medical care, the greater the chance of reducing long-term disability and improving recovery.”

Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, either by a blockage in an artery or by bleeding in the brain. Mayo Clinic experts say both types of stroke require immediate medical evaluation because prompt treatment can significantly improve recovery and reduce long-term disability. Stroke symptoms often appear suddenly and may include facial drooping, arm or leg weakness, slurred speech, language difficulty, vision problems, dizziness or loss of balance. Mayo Clinic experts encourage the public to remember the acronym BE FAST:

B BALANCE: Sudden onset of loss of balance or coordination.

EEYES: Sudden vision problems or loss of vision in one or both eyes.

F FACE DROOPING: One side of the face appears uneven or numb.

A ARM WEAKNESS: Sudden weakness or numbness in one arm.

S

SPEECH DIFFICULTY: Trouble speaking or understanding speech.

T TIME TO CALL 911: Immediate medical attention is critical.

Rapid treatment can restore blood flow to the brain and reduce permanent damage. Physicians stress that emergency evaluation should begin as soon as symptoms appear, not after they worsen or disappear. If a stroke is caused by a blood clot, doctors may use clot-busting medications or perform minimally invasive procedures to remove the clot and reopen blocked blood vessels in the brain.

MEDICAL ONCOLOGY CONTINUED

Jeffrey A. Bubis

Florida Cancer Specialists

& Research Institute

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

Saranya Chumsri Mayo Clinic

Gerardo Colon-Otero Mayo Clinic

Roxana S. Dronca

Mayo Clinic

James M. Foran Mayo Clinic

Troy H. Guthrie Jr.

UF Health Hematology & Oncology

UF Health Shands

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Dat C. Pham

Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

Ilicia Shugarman

Cancer Specialists of North Florida

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

NEONATAL-PERINATAL MEDICINE

Vasantha H. Kumar

UF Health Neonatology

UF Health Jacksonville

Laura Patton

UF Health Neonatology

UF Health Jacksonville

NEPHROLOGY

Ira Harmon

AccuCare of North Florida

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Ronald L. Mars

UF Health Nephrology

UF Health Shands

NEUROLOGICAL SURGERY

Richard W. Byrne

Mayo Clinic

W. Christopher Fox

Mayo Clinic

Michael B. Horowitz

HCA Florida First Coast Neurosurgery

HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital

Eric Nottmeier

Mayo Clinic

Alfredo Quinones-Hinojosa Mayo Clinic

NEUROLOGY

Robert Cavaliere

Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

David R. Chabolla

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

William P. Cheshire Jr.

Mayo Clinic

Gregory S. Day

Mayo Clinic

Elliot L. Dimberg

Mayo Clinic

Michael Gebel

Baptist Neurology Group

Baptist Medical Center Nassau

Neill R. Graff-Radford

Mayo Clinic

Daniel B. Groblewski

HCA Florida, Jacksonville

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

Bryan Riggeal

Baptist Neurology Group

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Devon I. Rubin

Mayo Clinic

Nemours Children’s Hospital Orlando

Scott Silliman

UF Health Neurology

UF Health Jacksonville

UF Health Flagler Hospital

William O. Tatum

Mayo Clinic

NUCLEAR MEDICINE

Akash Sharma

Mayo Clinic

OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY

Tim Baird Women’s Care

Baptist Medical Center South

Anita H. Chen

Mayo Clinic

Andrew M. Kaunitz

UF Health Women’s Specialists

UF Health Jacksonville

Michelle A. McLanahan

Ascension St. Vincent’s Family

Birth Place Southside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

Rebekah Richmond

Beaches OBGYN

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Sayra C. Sievert

Sievert Gynecology

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Mary E. Wechter

North Florida Gynecology Specialists

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

OPHTHALMOLOGY

Ron Adelman

Mayo Clinic

Shawn Agee

Southeastern Retina Specialists

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Michelle L. Diaz

Atlantic Eye Institute

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

Donald M. Downer

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

Charles V. Duss

Atlantic Eye Institute

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Dawn N. Duss

Pediatric Eye Consultants of North Florida

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Kathryn B. Freidl

Florida Eye Specialists

David W. Hayes

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

Abdallah M. Jeroudi

Florida Retina Institute

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Halifax Health Medical Center

Daytona Beach

William J. Knauer III

Levenson Eye Associates

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Lawrence M. Levine

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

Frank W. McDonald

Levenson Eye Associates

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Elizabeth K. McLeod

Levenson Eye Associates

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Tomas A. Moreno

Florida Retina Institute

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

William J. Oktavec

San Augustin Eye Foundation

Ravi R. Patel

Florida Eye Specialists

Russell A. Pecoraro

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

Megan N. Scott Carlton

Palm Valley Eye Care & Surgeons

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Clay County

Dante Sorrentino

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

Jonathan A. Staman

Florida Retina Institute

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Halifax Health Medical Center

Daytona Beach

John P. Sullivan

Southeastern Retina Specialists

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Sushma K. Vance

Atlantic Eye Institute

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY

Matthew M. Crowe Mayo Clinic

Kevin M. Kaplan

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Cedric J. Ortiguera

Mayo Clinic

Glenn G. Shi

Mayo Clinic

James T. Vosseller

Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

Edward Young

Jacksonville Orthopedic Institute

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

OTOLARYNGOLOGY

William E. Bolger

UF Health Otolaryngology

UF Health Jacksonville

Joseph T. Breen

Mayo Clinic

Angela M. Donaldson Mayo Clinic

Jeffrey R. Janus

Mayo Clinic

Justin R. Moy

North Florida Surgeons

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Osarenoma U. Olomu

Mayo Clinic

Samip Patel Mayo Clinic

HOT TOPICS

EAmy L. Rutt Mayo Clinic

Robert Sprecher Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

Arthur C. Taliaferro

North Florida Center for Otolaryngology

UF Health Flagler Hospital

PAIN MEDICINE

Veronica Antoine Formoso Spine & Joint Pain Specialists

Michael C. Hanes

Jax Spine & Pain Centers UF Health Flagler Hospital UF Health Leesburg Hospital

Parveen Khanna Pain Medicine Physicians of Jacksonville

PATHOLOGY

Colby A. Cantu

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Clay County

Ascension St. Vincent’s St. Johns County

Shahla Masood

UF Health Pathology & Laboratory Medicine UF Health Jacksonville

arlier this spring, University of North Florida opened the Perry Weather Heat Lab at UNF’s Korey Stringer Institute (KSI). The lab will be a hub of research on how extreme heat affects the body, informing real-world protocols and policies—something that is of particular importance in the Sunshine State.

Founded in 2010 at the University of Connecticut following the death of NFL offensive lineman Korey Stringer, who collapsed during training camp and died of exertional heat stroke, KSI has spent 16 years producing the research, policies and protocols that have reshaped how sports organizations, the military and employers manage heat risk. KSI at UNF opened in fall 2025 and is its first satellite location expansion beyond UConn, driven by Jacksonville’s year-round heat, large military presence, growing professional sports ecosystem and significant outdoor labor workforce.

The Heat Lab is designed to advance the science of thermoregulation, performance, health and safety through controlled environmental testing. Lab technologies enable researchers to simulate extreme conditions and precisely measure the body’s physiological and biochemical responses to physical activity under stress, then translate those findings directly into real-world protocols and policy recommendations.

“This expansion to the University of North Florida is a defining moment for the Korey Stringer Institute and for the future of heat safety,” says Douglas Casa, CEO of the KSI and Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor of Kinesiology at the University of Connecticut. “We are deeply grateful to the University of North Florida for their partnership and shared commitment to protecting lives.”

PATHOLOGY CONTINUED

Jalidsa Pellicier

Southeastern Pathology Associates

Baptist Medical Center South

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Thuy Penedo

Southeastern Pathology Associates

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

PEDIATRIC ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY

Ejaz Yousef

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY

Robert F. English

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

PEDIATRIC CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE

Christopher L. Carroll

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE

Jennifer N. Fisher

UF Health Jacksonville

PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY

Larry A. Fox

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nelly Mauras

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Monica M. Mortensen

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

PEDIATRIC GASTROENTEROLOGY

Salik Taufiq

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

PEDIATRIC HEMATOLOGY-ONCOLOGY

Manisha M. Bansal

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

Scott M. Bradfield

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

Michael J. Joyce

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

Eric Sandler

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

PEDIATRIC INFECTIOUS DISEASE

Samir Midani

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

PEDIATRIC ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY

Eric A. Loveless

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

David M. Mandel

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

Kevin M. Neal

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

PEDIATRIC OTOLARYNGOLOGY

James B. Chafin

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

Saswata Roy

ENT Specialists of North Florida

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

Daniel L. Wohl

Pediatric Otolaryngology

Associates

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Baptist Medical Center South

PEDIATRIC PULMONOLOGY

David Schaeffer

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

PEDIATRIC SURGERY

Robert W. Letton, Jr.

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

PEDIATRIC UROLOGY

Michael J. Erhard

Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida

PEDIATRICS

Maya S. Cantu

Thrivewell Pediatrics

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

David O. Childers, Jr.

UF Health Developmental

Pediatrics

UF Health Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Thomas M. Hardin

Coastal Health Primary Care

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Alexandra M. Kostur

Jacksonville Kids Pediatrics

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Hilleary C. Rockwell III

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Dhanu Sant

Thrivewell Pediatrics

Wendy Sapolsky

Carithers Pediatric Group

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Randolph Thornton

Jacksonville Pediatrics

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville Wolfson Children’s Hospital

James Waler

Baptist Primary Care

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

PHYSICAL MEDICINE & REHABILITATION

Thomas D. Rizzo, Jr. Mayo Clinic

Wesley D. Troyer Mayo Clinic

PLASTIC SURGERY

Patrick L. Basile

Patrick L. Basile, M.D. Plastic Surgery & Wellness

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Afirst-of-its-kind pediatric hospice and palliative care center recently debuted in the Baymeadows area. As the future home of Community PēdsCare, the new Dorion Family Pediatric Center is one of only a few dedicated pediatric hospice and palliative care centers in the United States. The center was created to expand access to care and deepen support for children living with serious and complex illnesses and the families who care for them. Located on Community Hospice’s Earl B. Hadlow Center for Caring campus along Sunbeam Road, the facility will provide a dedicated, pediatric-friendly environment offering services such as therapeutic recreation and activities that support normalization and community integration and caregiver support programs, psychosocial care, and spiritual care tailored to families.

Christopher M. Bates

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery

Amy H. Brewster

Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery

Robert W. Burk III

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Ankit R. Desai

Florida Plastic Surgery Group

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

Hollie Hickman

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery

Baptist Medical Center Beaches, South, & Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

John D. Murray

UF Health Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

UF Health Jacksonville

Erez G. Sternberg

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery

William A. Wallace, Jr.

Fleming Island Plastic Surgery

PULMONARY DISEASE

Remzi Bag Mayo Clinic

Charles D. Burger

Mayo Clinic

Jennifer C. Fulton

Respiratory Care & Sleep Medicine

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

Margaret Johnson Mayo Clinic

Daniel Wyzan

Ascension Medical Group

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

RADIATION ONCOLOGY

Cynthia S. Anderson

Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

Curtis M. Bryant

UF Health Proton Therapy Institute

UF Health Jacksonville

Jamie A. Cesaretti

Terk Oncology

Roi Dagan

UF Health Proton Therapy Institute

UF Health Jacksonville

Bradford S. Hoppe

Mayo Clinic

Daniel J. Indelicato

UF Health Proton Therapy Institute

UF Health Jacksonville

Nancy P. Mendenhall

UF Health Proton Therapy Institute

UF Health Jacksonville

William M. Mendenhall

UF Health Proton Therapy Institute

UF Health Jacksonville

Romaine C. Nichols, Jr.

UF Health Proton Therapy Institute

UF Health Jacksonville

Michael S. Rutenberg Mayo Clinic

Mitchell D. Terk Terk Oncology

Laura A. Vallow Mayo Clinic

REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGY / INFERTILITY

Christopher W. Lipari

Jacksonville Center for Reproductive Medicine

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

Baptist Medical Center South Jacksonville

Kari Sproul von Goeben IVF Florida Reproductive Associates

Ian N. Waldman

IVF Florida Reproductive Associates

Kevin L. Winslow

Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

SPORTS MEDICINE

Kristina F. DeMatas

Mayo Clinic

Sara E. Filmalter

Mayo Clinic

Jennifer R. Maynard Mayo Clinic

Daniel P. Montero Mayo Clinic

George Pujalte Mayo Clinic

Michael Yorio Baptist Orthopedics Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

SURGERY

Thomas R. Austgen

North Florida Surgeons

Baptist Medical Center Beaches

Ziad T. Awad

UF Health Surgery

UF Health Jacksonville

Uf Health North

John D. Brinkman

North Florida Surgeons

Ascension St. Vincent’s Clay County Hospital Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEONS

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) is the largest plastic surgery specialty organization in the world. Founded in 1931, the Society represents more than 90% of all board-certified plastic surgeons in the U.S., making ASPS a global institution and leading authority on cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. The mission of ASPS is to advance quality care to plastic surgery patients by encouraging high standards of training, ethics, physician practice and research in plastic surgery. The organization is a strong advocate for patient safety and requires its members to operate in accredited surgical facilities that have passed rigorous external review of equipment and staffing. A search of the ASPS database reveals some 30 member surgeons practicing in the Jacksonville area. Their names follow:

Abby Threet, MD

Amy Brewster, MD

Ankit Desai, MD

Antonio Forte, MD, PhD, MS

Brian Rinker, MD

Christopher Bates, MD

David Csikai, MD

Ellen Hancock, MD

Erez Sternberg, MD

Hollie Hickman, MD

Jacob Rinkinem, MD

Jay Granzow, MD

John Murray, MD

John Obi, MD

Joseph Parks, MD

Mark Clayman, MD

Michael Duffy, MD

Michael DeFazio, MD

Michael Fallucco, MD, FACS

Robert W. Burk III, MD

Sarvam TerKonda, MD

Sofia Kirk, MD

Timothy Fee, MD

Vaishali Doolabh, MD

MAKING MEMORIES

An estimated 7.2 million Americans aged 65 and older have Alzheimer’s disease. It is the most common form of dementia, affecting memory, thinking and behavior, and Florida has one of the highest rates in the country, with 12.5% of its residents in the 65 and older age bracket living with the neurological condition. As increasing age is the greatest risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s and Americans are living longer, the disease’s impact is expected to grow.

Baptist Health is participating in a groundbreaking clinical study to treat Alzheimer’s, making it the first health system in the U.S. to take part in the study. Recent research suggests that blockages in the brain’s lymphatic system may play a role in Alzheimer’s. When the brain cannot effectively clear waste proteins, they can build up, cause inflammation and contribute to increased memory loss and cognitive decline.

“For patients and their loved ones facing Alzheimer’s, innovative treatments cannot come soon enough,” says Matthew A. Zuino, president and CEO of Baptist Health. “Through clinical trials, we are expanding regional access to novel therapies, advancing research and leading the way for community health systems in academic medicine.”

The REMIND (Robotic-Enabled Microsurgical Intervention for Neurodegenerative Disease) early feasibility study considers a new robotic surgical approach to clear these waste proteins and improve lymphatic drainage. This study is designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of using the Symani Surgical System, a robotic microsurgical platform with special instruments to replicate the natural movements of the human hand at a micro scale, enhancing surgical precision and control.

“This robotic surgical procedure may reshape the way we approach neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s,” says neurosurgeon Ricardo Hanel, MD, the co-medical director of the Baptist Stroke & Cerebrovascular Center and principal investigator of the study at Baptist Health. “It’s exciting to be part of this landmark study and potentially offer hope to patients and families living with this condition.”

SURGICAL ONCOLOGY

Niraj J. Gusani

Baptist MD Anderson

Cancer Center

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

THORACIC SURGERY

Joe B. Putnam, Jr.

Baptist MD Anderson

Cancer Center

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Baptist Medical Center South

UROGYNECOLOGY/ FEMALE PELVIC MEDICINE & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

Jason R. Thompson

Florida Urogynecology

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

UROLOGY

K.C. Balaji

UF Health Urology

UF Health Jacksonville

Gregory A. Broderick Mayo Clinic

Julio C. Gundian, Jr.

Mayo Clinic

Todd C. Igel Mayo Clinic

Ali Kasraeian

Kasraeian Urology

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

Raymond W. Pak Mayo Clinic

David D. Thiel Mayo Clinic

VASCULAR & INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY

Mark Gorrie

Azura Vascular Care

J. Mark Mckinney Mayo Clinic

Rishi N. Razdan

Azura Vascular Care

VASCULAR SURGERY

James W. Dennis

UF Health Vascular Surgery

UF Health Jacksonville

UF Health North

James M. Scanlon

Cardiothoracic & Vascular

Surgical Associates

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville ✚

CASTLE CONNOLLY:

Your Source for Best-in-Class Healthcare

Castle Connolly is a trusted and credible healthcare research and information company with over 35 years of experience researching, reviewing, and selecting best-in-class healthcare providers and institutions. Our mission is to help people find the best healthcare by connecting patients with top-tier providers.

RIGOROUS SELECTION PROCESS

Castle Connolly employs a rigorous research and evaluation process to select top healthcare professionals on both the national and regional levels.

FOR DOCTORS AND DENTISTS:

The Top Doctor and Top Dentist selection process is based on peer-topeer nominations, open to all licensed physicians and dentists in the United States, allowing them to nominate peers in any specialty and region. The research team then thoroughly vets each nominee’s professional qualifications, including: education, professional reputation, research leadership, hospital and faculty appointments, disciplinary history, and outcomes data. Interpersonal skills such as listening, communicating effectively, demonstrating empathy, and instilling trust and confidence are also considered.

Rising Stars are specifically identified as early career doctors who are emerging leaders in the medical community.

The Castle Connolly Doctor Directory is the nation’s largest network of peernominated physicians.

FOR HOSPITALS (TOP HOSPITALS):

The Top Hospitals list uses a data-driven approach to recognize hospitals for overall excellence and outstanding performance across specialties and procedures. Castle Connolly uses medical insurance claims data from multiple payors (commercial and public) and other diverse sources. Hospitals are assessed for each medical procedure by analyzing patient outcome performance metrics, including: mortality and complication rates, patient safety, and recovery and discharge rates.

The methodology also incorporates Castle Connolly Top Doctor and physician nomination data to reflect the impact of high-quality providers and doctor expertise when selecting a hospital.

About Castle Connolly and Everyday Health Group:

Castle Connolly is part of Everyday Health Group, a leading Pharma Commercialization, Digital Health & Wellness, and Provider Solutions Company for Life Sciences, Hospitals and Health Systems, Health Care Providers (HCPs), and health-seeking Consumers. Our mission is to drive better clinical and health outcomes through decisionmaking informed by highly relevant information, data and analytics. We empower healthcare providers and consumers with trusted content and services delivered through the Everyday Health Group’s world-class brands.

Professionals and/or institutions selected for inclusion in this magazine’s feature may also appear online at www. castleconnolly.com, or in conjunction with other Castle Connolly databases online and/or in print. For more information, please visit Castle Connolly.

NORTHEAST FLORIDA’S

TOP HOSPITALS

According to the American Hospital Association, the nation’s 6,000-plus hospitals are host to more than 34 million patient admissions each year.

When your health and welfare are concerned, choosing which hospital to align yourself with for surgery, a procedure, or some other type of health care is one of the most important decisions you can make, as it can impact the quality of care you receive, your access to beneficial resources and services, your safety, the speed and success of your recovery, and much more. Studies show that individuals consider a number of factors when choosing a hospital, including its location, reputation, and their doctor’s affiliation, although the facility they ultimately choose may not in fact provide the best care or outcomes in that particular specialty.

Knowing that, Castle Connolly’s 2026 Top Hospitals in Florida serves as an invaluable resource.

With more than three decades of experience researching, reviewing, and selecting standout physicians for its annual and highly regarded Top Doctors list, Castle Connolly has proven itself to be a trusted and credible health care research and information company that’s dedicated to helping people find the best health care by connecting them with best-in-class doctors and institutions.

Recognizing that a patient’s choice of hospital is equally as important as their choice of doctor, Castle Connolly Top Hospitals aims to provide

Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside

PROCEDURE | Mastectomy (State)

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

SPECIALTY | Orthopaedic Surgery (State)

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

PROCEDURE | Knee Replacement (National & State)

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside

PROCEDURE | Spine (State)

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

SPECIALTY | Orthopaedic Surgery (State)

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

PROCEDURE | Hysterectomy (National & State)

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

PROCEDURE | Colon Surgery (State)

Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

PROCEDURE | Spine (State)

HCA Florida Memorial

GOLD STANDARD | Representing the top 10 in Florida

a reliable, data-driven resource for identifying the best hospitals for various medical procedures. The resulting lists of Top Hospitals focus on the best options chosen by Castle Connolly for patients preparing for a medical procedure, whether they are looking within their own community or across the country for care.

Castle Connolly uses data that is derived from medical insurance claims data, including data from multiple payors (commercial and public insurance providers), as well as other diverse sources. The data source also applies a proprietary analysis to provide a full picture of the patient journey, prior and post procedure and across the health care system. Using this data, hospitals are assessed for each medical procedure, analyzing the patient outcome performance metrics, including mortality and complication rates, patient safety, and recovery and discharge rates.

In addition to the patient outcome components of the methodology, Castle Connolly also incorporates Castle Connolly Top Doctor and physician nomination data sources to reflect both the impact of high-quality providers at each hospital, as well as the experience and expertise of doctors when it comes to selecting a hospital. Castle Connolly Top Hospitals — Gold Standard are the highest-performing hospitals, leading the way in medical excellence and patient safety.

2026 HONOREES:

HCA Florida Memorial

SPECIALTY | Cancer Surgery (State)

HCA Florida Memorial

SPECIALTY | Orthopaedic Surgery (National & State)

HCA Florida Memorial

PROCEDURE | Knee Replacement (National & State)

HCA Florida Memorial

PROCEDURE | Mastectomy (State)

Mayo Clinic Jacksonville

PROCEDURE | Heart Valve Replacement (National & State)

Mayo Clinic Jacksonville

PROCEDURE | Spine (State)

Mayo Clinic Jacksonville

PROCEDURE | Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (National & State)

Mayo Clinic Jacksonville

PROCEDURE | Hip Replacement (State)

Mayo Clinic Jacksonville

PROCEDURE | Lung Cancer Surgery (State)

UF Health Jacksonville

SPECIALTY | Heart & Vascular Surgery (State)

UF Health Jacksonville

PROCEDURE | Carotid Artery Bypass (National & State)

UF Health Jacksonville

PROCEDURE | Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (State)

UF Health Flagler Hospital

SPECIALTY | ObGyn Surgery (National & State)

UF Health Flagler Hospital

SPECIALTY | Orthopaedic Surgery (National & State)

UF Health Flagler Hospital

PROCEDURE | C-Section (National & State)

UF Health Flagler Hospital

PROCEDURE | Spine (National & State)

The Eye Associates

FORMERLY BOWDEN EYE & ASSOCIATES, JANET A. BETCHKAL, MD, AND SCHNEIDER EYE & WELLNESS CENTER

EXCELLENCE IN EYE CARE FOR OVER 30 YEARS

When it comes to protecting and preserving the precious gift of sight, The Eye Associates has long been a trusted name across the First Coast. From your first interaction with our friendly staff to your personalized treatment plan, you’ll experience a level of care, expertise, and commitment to innovation that sets us apart.

Founded by Frank W. Bowden, III, M.D., FACS, a former U.S. Naval medical officer and former Jacksonville Jaguars opthalmologist for 23 years, The Eye Associates has grown to five convenient locations, including optical, serving the Beaches, Northside, Southside, St. Johns and St. Vincent's Riverside areas. For nearly four decades, we’ve earned our patients’ trust by providing the highest standard in primary and specialty eye care.

COMPREHENSIVE VISION CORRECTION & EYE HEALTH SERVICES

We offer a wide range of advanced treatment options, combining cuttingedge technology with compassionate care to deliver optimal outcomes for every patient. They include:

• EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens): An advanced solution for patients seeking freedom from glasses or contacts when LVC is not an option.

• Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE): Premium lens implants which may include Light Adjustable Lens. Patients may achieve greater range of vision without glasses.

• PRK/LASIK is a type of laser eye surgery that reshapes the cornea for conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

PREMIUM CATARACT SURGERY

Experience life-changing clarity with the latest lens technology and surgical techniques, customized to your lifestyle and visual goals with reduced dependence on glasses—a “return to youthful vision” with the options available at The Eye Associates.

INTERVENTIONAL GLAUCOMA CARE

Our proactive approach minimizes the need for daily eye drops by utilizing innovative, minimally invasive procedures to halt disease progression early along with laser and traditional glaucoma surgery.

DRY EYE DISEASE MANAGEMENT

The Eye Associates is a national leader in Dry Eye Disease (DED) care. We provide comprehensive diagnostics and personalized treatment solutions to restore comfort and improve quality of life. Services include:

• Eyelid Exfoliation

• Meibomian Gland Probing

• Eyelid Thermopulsation

• Serum Tears

• IPL (Intense Pulse Light) Therapy

• Low Level Light Therapy

CORNEAL DISEASE & TRANSPLANT CENTER

Our team specializes in advanced care for keratoconus and other corneal conditions, offering treatments like:

• CTAK/Crosslinking for Keratoconus

• Ocular Surface Reconstruction

• Partial and Full-Thickness Corneal Transplants

Our goal is always to preserve native tissue whenever possible, using the most current and effective solutions available.

PRIMARY & PEDIATRIC EYE CARE

We proudly care for patients of all ages and severity levels. From routine exams to managing complex ocular disease, our team of Optometrists delivers detailed evaluations and personalized education to empower your eye health decisions.

We also provide Myopia Control for children, helping to slow the progression of nearsightedness with evidence-based treatments that reduce long-term risks.

“Eye care is so much more than just yearly visitsand checking for glasses,” says Dr. Jerry Robben. “The modern world adds many stressors to our eyes—screens, dry environments,allergies—andourgoalistotreatnotjustsymptoms,butrootcauses.”

WHY CHOOSE BOWDEN EYE & ASSOCIATES?

• Decades of trusted care on the First Coast

• Industry-leading technology and treatments

• Nationally recognized experts and educators

• Comprehensive, compassionate care

• Five convenient locations

• Serving generations of families

From general ophthalmic care, custom cataract surgery, corneal transplants, dry eye treatment, glaucoma management, LASIK, and aesthetic services—we are your full-scope eye care destination.

Florida Plastic Surgery Group

DELIVERING BEAUTIFUL, NATURAL RESULTS

5

CONVENIENT LOCATIONS

Florida Plastic Surgery Group (FPSG) provides personalized care in Northeast Florida with a clear mission: We are committed to excellence in patient care. We pride ourselves in treating each patient as family with the goal to improve patient’s quality of life. We provide the highest level of up-to-date, safe and ethical care in the field of plastic surgery, both cosmetic and reconstructive. For our breast reconstructive patients, we aim to provide hope, quality of life, and closure during a difficult time in their life. For our cosmetic patients, we aim to improve confidence while delivering a natural rejuvenated appearance.

Drs Ankit Desai, Michael Fallucco, Joseph Parks, Michael Defazio and Jacob Rinkinen are all board-certified plastics surgeons who are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care, always remembering that a patient’s needs come first.

FPSG’s physicians have performed thousands of cosmetic procedures such as breast augmentation, breast lift, tummy tucks, body contouring after massive weight loss, labiaplasty, fat transfer and facial rejuvenation. We are proud to provide the latest techniques in facial aesthetics such as the “Deep Plane Face and Neck lift” to turn back the clock in a lasting way. We have expertise in mommy makeovers, breast augmentation revision surgery, and body contouring after weight loss from either surgery or GLP1s. We are leaders in breast reconstruction after a breast cancer diagnosis: having performed over 3000 DIEP flaps with advanced microsurgical techniques to use unwanted belly fat to reconstruct a breast in a “tummy tuck-like” restorative procedure, and thousands of

breast implant reconstructions. FPSG is proud to have helped established the only center of excellence in the world for the surgical treatment of lymphedema, or swelling in the arm after breast cancer treatment.

Whether it is trying to look your best or fix a complex reconstructive problem, the doctors at FPSG will partner with you to develop an individualized surgical plan to meet your needs based on our diverse skill.

Our staff also includes seven physician assistants (PA’s) specially trained in injectables such as Botox, fillers like Juvéderm, laser treatments with HALO and BBL, fractionated CO2, Cool Peel, microneedling, and personalized skin care regimens to fit your complexion type. The benefit of having PA’s understand the anatomy while in surgery allows them to transfer that knowledge to the office with these non-surgical procedures to provide patients with consistent quality results that are safe. We understand Jacksonville’s spread-out geography and therefore we provide multiple convenient locations across the area. Our reach extends beyond Northeast Florida and we have processes in place for out-of-town patients seeking our expertise.

We are honored at FPSG to help patients in their journey, both cosmetic and reconstructive and understand that surgery is only a small part of the process. We encourage patients to sit down and discuss options with our team as well as to do their due diligence in researching practices through patient experiences such as Google Reviews. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice family.

Kasraeian Urology

COMPREHENSIVE UROLOGICAL CARE: SPECIALIZING IN ADVANCED DIAGNOSIS & MINIMALLY INVASIVE THERAPY

As a patient confronting the possibility of surgery, you want to make sure that you are in the hands of a doctor whom you can trust and who can offer the crucial combination of experience, compassion, and advanced technology. Patients receive that level of care at Kasraeian Urology, a practice originally comprised of a father-and-son team that treats patients like family. Dr. Ali Kasraeian, named among “America’s Top Surgeons” by the Consumers’ Research Council of America, completed his fellowship in advanced laparoscopic, robotic, and minimally invasive urological surgery at the world-renowned Montsouris Institute in Paris, France. Together with his father, Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian , named among America’s top 7 percent of physicians and honored as one of U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Doctors,” they provided comprehensive urological care specializing in minimally invasive surgery.

Dr. Ali Kasraeian is a board-certified urologist specializing in advanced minimally invasive, robotic, and ablative surgery for prostate, bladder, and kidney conditions. He is among the first in North Florida to offer cutting-edge, innovative focal therapies, including High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), Focal Laser Ablation, and TULSA-PRO, as minimally invasive, non-surgical, and non-radiation treatment options for localized prostate cancer. In early 2025, he performed Jacksonville’s first HIFU procedure for prostate cancer, helping establish Kasraeian Urology — and the region — as a destination for state-of-the-art urologic care. We are deeply grateful for the trust and support of our patients, colleagues, referring physicians, and community, and we are honored to continue bringing advanced and innovative urologic therapies to Northeast Florida.

We are also excited to have been one of the few centers in the region selected to participate in Francis Medical’s groundbreaking VAPOR 2 Trial. The VAPOR 2 trial is a pivotal, multi-center clinical study evaluating the Vanquish Water Vapor Ablation System, a minimally invasive treatment for localized, intermediate-risk prostate cancer. This innovative therapy uses transurethral thermal water vapor (steam) to precisely target and ablate cancerous prostate tissue while helping minimize many of the side effects traditionally associated with prostate cancer treatment. We are proud to help advance this technology and to offer this innovative focal therapy as a potential treatment alternative for appropriately selected men with prostate cancer.

Kasraeian Urology was the first practice in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia to offer multiparametric MRI/ultrasound fusiontargeted prostate biopsy, introducing the technology to the region over a decade ago. This advanced diagnostic technique allows for more precise and accurate diagnosis of lesions within the prostate that may be missed with standard biopsy techniques. Furthermore, Dr. Kasraeian uses multiparametric MRI/US fusiontargeted prostate biopsy in consideration of focal therapy options such as Focal HIFU, cryotherapy, Focal Laser Ablation, TULSA-PRO, and the Vanquish Water Vapor Ablation System, where only the area within the prostate afflicted with cancer is treated, leaving the normal tissue unaffected.

In 2018, Dr. Ali Kasraeian was proud to have been a part of the first U.S. cases outside of clinical trials using the Procept AQUABEAM Aquablation system to treat men with urinary symptoms related to an enlarged, obstructing prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The Procept AQUABEAM Aquablation system is the world’s first commercially available, minimally invasive surgical robot providing autonomous tissue removal to safely and effectively treat BPH.

The treatment is an innovative combination of robotics, multidimensional real-time imaging, and a heat-free waterjet to precisely and accurately remove obstructive prostate tissue in men with BPH seeking therapy. Aquablation offers men with BPH predictable and reproducible outcomes independent of prostate anatomy or prostate size. Dr. Kasraeian is proud to have been one of the first urologists in the United States to introduce this innovative technology to men in our community.

Kasraeian Urology was also honored as a UroLift Center of Excellence in 2020. Additionally, Dr. Ali Kasraeian performed the first Optilume procedure for BPH in Florida in early 2024. Optilume BPH is a revolutionary minimally invasive therapy for the management of BPH.

Combined with Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian’s years of international experience, including more than 40 years serving the Jacksonville community, this father-and-son team worked together to ensure that patients are treated as they would want members of their own family treated — with care, dignity, attention, and respect. Both Drs. Ahmad Kasraeian and Ali Kasraeian, Castle Connolly Top Doctors, have offered this depth of understanding in the personalized care of complex urological conditions such as kidney, bladder, and prostate cancer.

As Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian entered retirement on January 1, 2026, Kasraeian Urology celebrates not only an extraordinary career in medicine, but also a lifetime devoted to compassionate patient care, surgical excellence, mentorship, and service to the Jacksonville community. Generations of patients and families have benefited from his dedication, kindness, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to treating every patient with empathy and respect.

Dr. Ali Kasraeian is deeply honored to continue building upon the foundation his father helped establish, carrying forward the practice’s commitment to personalized care while continuing to bring innovative and advanced urologic therapies to Northeast Florida. He expresses his deepest gratitude and appreciation to his father not only for his mentorship in medicine and surgery, but also for the example he set through a lifetime of integrity, humility, compassion, and dedication to others. It has been both a privilege and an honor to practice alongside him and to witness firsthand the profound impact he has had on countless patients, families, physicians, and healthcare professionals throughout our community. Together, their shared vision and values have helped shape Kasraeian Urology into a destination for compassionate, personalized, and state-of-the-art urologic care right here in Jacksonville.

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

EMPOWERING MOVEMENT, RESTORING LIVES

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville is a dynamic orthopedic practice founded by a team of the most esteemed and highly respected surgeons in our region. With decades of combined expertise, cuttingedge techniques, and a shared commitment to advancing patient care, we are united in our mission to offer unparalleled orthopedic services.

We understand that each patient is unique, and our approach to treatment is personalized to ensure the best possible outcomes. Our team consists of board-certified, fellowship trained orthopedic surgeons and physiatrists with expertise across a wide range of specialties. Each physician brings a wealth of experience, having trained at top institutions and worked in leading healthcare settings across the country and in Jacksonville.

We combine the latest in medical technology with a compassionate, patient-centered approach to ensure that our patients receive the most effective and efficient care possible. From routine care to complex surgical interventions, our team’s diverse expertise guarantees that our patients receive the highest level of care, tailored to their unique needs.

Proudly serving communities throughout Florida, we are dedicated to restoring mobility, improving quality of life, and helping patients move forward with strength.

Orthopaedic Specialists of Jacksonville is also proud to provide Orthopedic Care to the Jacksonville Jaguars. www.osjax.com

14534 Old St. Augustine Road, Suite 3210 Medical Office Building 3, 2nd floor Jacksonville FL 32258 (904) 675-4000

DR. PHILLIP BELL

Hip and Knee Joint Replacement

Dr. Bell trained at Orthocarolina for Residency. He received specialized training in cutting edge joint replacement surgery and revision surgery at the Florida Orthopedic Institute in Tampa, FL.

5191 First Coast Technology Parkway 3rd Floor Jacksonville, FL 32224 (904) 675-4000

DR. HIRAM CARRASQUILLO

Foot and Ankle Surgery

Dr. Carrasquillo completed residency at the University of Puerto Rico and then worked under renowned foot and ankle specialist Dr. G. James Sam Marco in Cincinnati for Fellowship. Dr. Carrasquillo specializes in treating all injuries to the foot and ankle

DR. BRETT FRYKBERG Hip and Knee Joint Replacement

Dr. Frykberg completed residency at the University of Florida and completed a fellowship at the Hospital for Special Surgery considered the top hospital in regard to joint replacement. Dr. Frykberg uses cutting edge technology as part of his joint replacement practice.

DR. KEVIN KAPLAN Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine

Dr. Kaplan completed residency at NYU Langone Hospital and then completed a fellowship at the World Renowned Kerlan Jobe Orthopedic Clinic. Dr. Kaplan continues in his 13th season as the Head Team Physician for the Jacksonville Jaguars. He specializes in treatment of injuries in the shoulder, elbow, and knee.

DR. RICHARD PICERNO Joint Replacement

Dr. Picerno completed his training at the University of Florida. He specializes in joint replacement surgery and also general orthopedics. Dr. Picerno is integrally involved in leadership at Baptist Health.

DR. BRUCE STEINBERG Upper Extremity

Dr. Steinberg completed residency at Harvard and then completed a fellowship in upper extremity at the Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center. He served as a special consultant to the Jaguars for 25 years and specializes in injuries from the shoulder to the hand.

DR. BRANDON KAMBACH Spine Surgery

Dr. Kambach completed residency at Michigan State University and also a fellowship at Woodridge Spine Center with Dr. Thomas Lowe. He has been in practice since 2006 offering patients the highest level of care for spinal disorders.

DR. GARRY KITAY Upper Extremity

Dr. Kitay completed residency at the University of Pennsylvania and then a fellowship in upper extremity at the renowned Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center. Dr. Kitay serves as a consultant for hand injuries for the Jacksonville Jaguars and specializes in the treatment of injuries from the shoulder to the hand.

DR. GREGORY SOLIS Upper Extremity

Dr. Solis graduated from Robert Wood Johnson Medical school. He then completed his residency through the University of Florida and completed international fellowships in both adult knee reconstruction and foot and ankle surgery.

DR. ROBERT SAVARESE Physiatry and Pain Medicine

Dr. Savarese completed residency at the Kessler institute for rehabilitation and furthered his fellowship training at the Florida Spine Institute. Dr. Savarese uses state of the art non-surgical techniques to treat painful spine issues. He is the pain management special consultant to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Atlantic Eye Institute

BACK ROW: CHRISTEN M. RUSSELL, OD | CHARLES V. DUSS, MD | DANIELLE T. CALLEGARI, OD, FAAO KARIM J. SAMARA, MD | SUSHMA K. VANCE, MD | C. STEVEN LANCASTER, OD, FAAO

FRONT ROW: AUSTIN R. FELVER, OD | KELSEY M. MILESKI, OD, FAAO | SHEILA PABON, MD | MICHELLE L. DIAZ, MD

At Atlantic Eye Institute, excellence in eye care is not just a promise, but a proven reality. Established in 2000, the practice has grown to encompass a dedicated team of five board-certified ophthalmologists and five board-certified optometrists across four convenient locations in the Greater Jacksonville and St. Augustine areas, providing comprehensive eye care and emergency services around the clock.

At the heart of Atlantic Eye Institute’s ethos is a commitment to supporting each patient in their journey to personalized, affordable, and effective eye care solutions. Whether it’s exploring the cutting-edge possibilities of LASIK surgery with the Wavelight EX500 Laser System or navigating the nuanced decisions around cataract surgery with the advanced LenSx® Laser, patients can confidently step forward, knowing they’re supported by the latest in surgical technology paired with unmatched expertise.

In its unwavering commitment to innovation and superior patient outcomes, the practice has recently implemented the groundbreaking Light Adjustable Lens, the first and only FDA-approved lens that allows patients to fine-tune their vision post-cataract surgery. No matter the age or eye care need, patients can rest assured with Atlantic Eye Institute. The practice specializes in a wide array of services including premium cataract surgery, LASIK, cosmetic and reconstructive eyelid surgery, glaucoma treatments, retina

care, comprehensive eye care and more. The path to optimal vision has never been clearer.

Atlantic Eye Institute accepts most insurances and offers affordable financing options through Alphaeon Credit. Live your vision today by visiting: atlanticeyeinstitute.com.

JACKSONVILLE BEACH

3316 Third St. S., Suite 103, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

ATLANTIC BLVD. 13457 Atlantic Blvd., Suite 5, Jacksonville, FL 32225

BENNETT RD. 6207 Bennett Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32216

ST. JOHNS 105 Nature Walk Pkwy., Suite 105, St. Augustine, FL 32092

(904) 241-7865 • AtlanticEyeInstitute.com

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

PROVIDING EXCEPTIONAL PATIENT CARE TO NORTH FLORIDA SINCE 1977

For almost five decades, Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons has been a trusted provider of exceptional eye care throughout North Florida. Their strong reputation reflects not only the skill of their physicians but also a deep commitment to delivering compassionate, individualized care to every patient.

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons is built on a collaborative, teamdriven approach that ensures each patient receives a carefully tailored treatment plan. Many of their board-certified Ophthalmologists have completed advanced fellowship training in the management of: age related macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, glaucoma, cornea, and oculoplastics, providing a full spectrum of care. Their combination of experience, surgical precision, and advanced technology is what sets them apart.

With 17 providers supported by an experienced clinical and administrative team, Clay Eye stands as one of North Florida’s largest

comprehensive eye care practices. They provide a complete range of services across five convenient locations—Orange Park, Fleming Island, Mandarin, Riverside, and Middleburg—ensuring accessible, high-quality care throughout the community.

Recognizing the importance of convenience for patients and their families, Clay Eye offers same-day appointments at all five locations. In addition, their state-of-the-art, 7,000-square-foot Surgery Center adjoining the Fleming Island office provides a seamless, elevated experience from beginning to end.

SPECIALTIES AND SERVICES INCLUDE:

• Laser Cataract Surgery

• Glaucoma Surgery

• Medical/Surgical Retina

• Macular Degeneration

• Diabetic Eye Disease

ORANGE PARK

2023 Professional Center Drive Orange Park, FL 32073

FLEMING ISLAND

1855 E. West Parkway Fleming Island, FL 32003

MANDARIN

11790 San Jose Boulevard Jacksonville, FL 32223

www.clayeye.com • 904-272-2020

• Cornea Surgery

• LASIK Surgery

• Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery

• Contact Lenses

• Boutique Eyewear

RIVERSIDE

Ascension/St. Vincent’s Hospital DePaul Building 2 Shircliff Way, Suite 120 Jacksonville, FL 32204

MIDDLEBURG

Ascension/St. Vincent’s Hospital 1658 St. Vincent’s Way, Suite 250 Middleburg, FL 32068

Dr. Clayman’s Plastic Surgery Center & Spa

CLAYMAN LEGACY: WHERE ARTISTRY MEETS EXCELLENCE IN AESTHETIC SURGERY

For more than two decades, discerning patients across Northeast Florida have entrusted their transformation to a name synonymous with surgical precision, compassionate care, and results that redefine beauty: Dr. Clayman’s Plastic Surgery Center & Spa

Most recently named Best Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Practice by The Florida Times-Union’s Bold City Best of Jax 2023, 2024, & 2025, this renowned center is no stranger to accolades—earning “Best in Jax,” “#1 in the 904,” and the “Companies with Heart” award, year after year.

But the real story lies beyond the headlines.

At the heart of this success is Dr. Mark Clayman, a Harvard-educated, board-certified plastic surgeon whose career is rooted in rigorous training, artistic vision, and a profound legacy. After completing his surgical and plastic surgery training at the University of Florida, Dr. Clayman expanded his expertise alongside internationally recognized pioneers in both the U.S. and Brazil—refining techniques in facial rejuvenation, body contouring, and advanced reconstructive procedures.

Among the mentors who shaped his philosophy was his late father, Dr. Loren Clayman, a trailblazer in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for over 30 years. Together, they built not just a practice—but a promise: that every patient would be treated like family, and every procedure performed with uncompromising skill and intention.

Today, that promise lives on in every consultation, every incision, and every transformation.

With over 50 years of combined surgical experience, the Clayman team was more than a group of medical professionals—they were an elite collaboration of aesthetic architects. Their approach blended surgical mastery with the nuanced eye of an artist, offering a full spectrum of services from facelifts and breast augmentations to non-invasive skin rejuvenations and post-traumatic and cancer reconstructions.

Dr. Clayman’s accolades speak volumes:

• Patient Satisfaction Award

• Top 10 Doctor in Northeast Florida

• Compassionate Doctor Recognition

• Top 40 Under 40 – Jacksonville Business Journal

• 5-Year Patient’s Choice Award (reserved for just 1% of U.S. physicians)

• Outstanding Research Awards from both the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons

But what truly sets Dr. Clayman apart isn’t just his credentials—it’s his commitment to personalized care. Every patient receives a tailored treatment plan designed not only to enhance aesthetic appearance but to restore confidence and improve quality of life.

His devotion extends beyond the OR. The Clayman team actively supports outreach organizations such as The National Blood Clot Alliance, Her Song, Boys & Girls Clubs, and multiple breast cancer nonprofits—a family tradition inspired by Dr. Clayman’s grandfather, who dedicated his life to underserved communities.

In a world saturated with trends and filters, Dr. Clayman’s Plastic Surgery Center stands as a beacon of authentic transformation—where science meets artistry, and every outcome is a reflection of meticulous care.

Whether you're seeking subtle refinement or dramatic change, Dr. Mark Clayman and his award-winning team invite you to discover why patients say their journey began the moment they felt seen, heard, and truly cared for.

Because here, beauty isn’t created—it’s revealed

A Milestone in Local Heart Care

Anew era in cardiovascular care has arrived in Jacksonville, and First Coast Cardiovascular Institute is proud to share the news. With great excitement, the organization announces the grand opening of the First Coast Cardiovascular Surgical Center, Northeast Florida’s first dedicated cardiovascular ambulatory surgical center (ASC).

Designed to enhance both access and experience, the center brings advanced heart and vascular procedures into a modern outpatient setting. Patients can receive a wide range of services, including diagnostic catheterizations, angioplasty, stenting, electrophysiology procedures, and specialized vascular interventions, all within a coordinated care model that supports them from consultation through same day recovery and follow up.

What makes this ASC especially impactful is its patient-focused approach. By offering appropriate procedures outside of a traditional hospital setting, the center delivers high quality care with greater efficiency. Patients benefit from shorter wait times, lower costs, reduced infection risk, and a more personalized, comfortable experience.

The facility is led by a highly skilled team of cardiovascular physicians, nurses, and clinical professionals who are committed to delivering compassionate, cutting-edge care. Their shared mission is to improve outcomes while making the care journey more seamless for every patient.

FIRAS EL SABBAGH, MD, FHRS Director of Electrophysiology, First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

At the forefront of innovation in heart rhythm care, Firas El Sabbagh, M.D., has been shaping the future of cardiovascular medicine in Northeast Florida since joining First Coast Cardiovascular Institute in 2019 as Director of Electrophysiology. He also serves in the same role at HCA Orange Park Medical Center, extending his impact across the region.

Board-certified in cardiac electrophysiology, cardiovascular disease, and echocardiography, Dr. El Sabbagh is an active member of the American College of Cardiology and the Heart Rhythm Society. His global training journey began at the American University of Beirut, followed by an internal medicine residency at the renowned Cleveland Clinic. He went on to complete a cardiology fellowship at the University of Missouri and advanced subspecialty training in electrophysiology at University Hospitals Case Medical Center.

Since entering practice in 2012, Dr. El Sabbagh has focused on cutting-edge, device-based therapies, including pacemakers, implantable cardioverterdefibrillators (ICDs), and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) for heart failure, including Conduction System Pacing. He also specializes in left atrial appendage occlusion (Watchman and Amulet) and catheter ablation for atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, utilizing both radiofrequency and Pulsed Field Ablation techniques.

Recognized nationally for his expertise, Dr. El Sabbagh proctors and mentors cardiologists across the country, helping them adopt new procedures safely and effectively. Driven by both precision and compassion, he remains committed to advancing care. “This field challenges you to stay current,” he says, “and to apply innovation in ways that truly benefit our patients.” Outside the lab, he enjoys traveling and spending time with his wife and two daughters.

Florida Retina Institute

COMPASSIONATE, PERSONALIZED RETINA CARE. SURGICAL EXCELLENCE.

Vitreo-retinal diseases can significantly affect vision and overall quality of life, often progressing quietly before symptoms become noticeable. Conditions associated with diabetes, aging, genetic factors, inflammation, or unexplained changes in vision require specialized evaluation, advanced diagnostics, and expert medical and surgical care.

For over 45 years, Florida Retina Institute has been a trusted leader in the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical management of retinal disease. Since 1979, the practice has earned the confidence of patients and referring physicians through compassionate, personalized care, collaboration, and continued innovation in retina medicine and surgery.

Continued growth throughout Florida and Georgia reflects a commitment to expanding access to specialized retina care.

Care is provided by a collaborative team of 20 fellowship-trained retina specialists across more than 20+ locations throughout Florida and Georgia. Florida Retina Institute distinguishes itself through a team-based approach in which physicians work together to design individualized treatment plans. Patients benefit from leading surgical techniques, sophisticated imaging technology, minimally invasive procedures, and continued investment in innovation and medical advancement.

Florida Retina Institute is also recognized for leadership in clinical trials and research, operating three dedicated research centers located in Jacksonville, Orlando, and Wildwood. Participation in national and international studies provides patients with access to emerging therapies while contributing to meaningful progress in the treatment of retinal disease.

Changes in vision are often the first indication that specialized evaluation is needed. Symptoms such as blurred or distorted vision, floaters, flashes of light, or sudden vision loss should be assessed promptly by an eye care professional. When advanced or surgical intervention is required, medical professionals throughout the region refer patients to Florida Retina Institute for expert management of complex retinal conditions.

Florida Retina Institute treats a comprehensive range of conditions, including wet and dry macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears and detachments, macular holes and epiretinal membranes, retinal vein occlusions, uveitis, pediatric retinal diseases, vitreous floaters, and vitreous hemorrhage.

Looking ahead, Florida Retina Institute continues to invest in the future of retina medicine through physician education, research, and surgical advancement. A retina fellowship program planned for 2027 will further strengthen subspecialty training and support the next generation of retina specialists.

Through continued growth, leadership in clinical research, advanced surgical innovation, and physician education, Florida Retina Institute remains committed to preserving sight and improving lives through compassionate, personalized retina care. #positivelyvisionfocused.

Learn more at floridaretinainstitute.com

SOUTHSIDE: 8786 Perimeter Park Blvd. (904) 997-9202

RIVERSIDE: 2639 Oak St. (904) 387-5600

FLEMING ISLAND: 4607 US Hwy. 17, Ste. 1 (904) 579-2800

ST. AUGUSTINE: 1100 Plantation Dr., Ste. 130 (904) 826-0663

The Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry

DEDICATED SPECIALISTS IN THE RESTORATION & REPLACEMENT OF TEETH

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

WHAT IS A PROSTHODONTIST?

Prosthodontists are dental specialists who focus on the restoration and replacement of teeth, helping their patients to obtain optimum appearance and function into their smiles. They are extensively trained in state-ofthe-art techniques related to dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures (complete or partial), veneers, cosmetic dentistry and more. After dental school they receive three years of additional specialized training, to focus in major dental problems.

With over 30 years of experience in the Prosthodontics Science, The Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry continues to be the number one option for prosthetic and implant restorations. Dr. Rodriguez and his experienced staff are highly respected members of the dental community. This is why dentists refer their most challenging cases to them. To do this, they also have a reputation for assembling and managing the finest teams of dental specialists in the region.

Being one of the first Prosthodontists in the nation to be trained to use Advanced Dental Imaging Technology at the Naval Postgraduate Dental School in Bethesda, Maryland, Dr. Rodriguez knows how important it is

to have the best equipment and technology in his practices. This is why Dr. Rodriguez prepared the Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry with the best technology to provide advanced services to our patients. This is why the technology at the Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry is the leading edge in surgical implant placement planning and restorative treatment.

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

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

NOEL RODRIGUEZ, DMD, MS

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

Jax Implants & Dentures

DENTAL IMPLANT CLINIC

Dr. McRee is originally from Gainesville, GA. He attended the University of Georgia on a baseball scholarship, earning All-American honors both on the field and in the classroom. He went on to earn his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the Medical College of Georgia before completing an advanced surgical residency at Foundry Dental Implant Center outside Birmingham, Alabama — where he met his future colleague, Dr. Russell.

Since residency, Dr. McRee has dedicated his career to implant dentistry, completing thousands of cases across the Southeast and developing a deep expertise in complex implant techniques, including zygomatic, pterygoid, trans-sinus, and transnasal implants. He has lectured on stateof-the-art techniques and enjoyed teaching others in the field. Dr. McRee has also played a key role in shaping the surgical side of Jax Implants, helping to build a process that puts patients first.

Dr. Russell is originally from West Columbia, SC. He attended Wofford College, majoring in Biology with an emphasis in Computer Science, before earning his dental degree from the Medical University of South Carolina College of Dental Medicine. He completed his advanced surgical residency at the Foundry Dental Implant Center in Alabama, where he trained alongside Dr. McRee.

Since residency, Dr. Russell has developed a particular passion for restorative implant dentistry and digital dentistry, focusing on how technology can improve outcomes for patients. He has lectured on digital workflows and personally oversees every clinical lab case that comes through Jax Implants & Dentures. He also leads all cosmetic decisions for the practice, bringing a careful and thoughtful eye to every case.

“Our goal has always been to create a practice where patients can receive every part of their treatment under one roof, with a team focused entirely on delivering the best possible outcome.”

– Dr. McRee

Together, Drs. McRee and Russell have built something truly unique at Jax Implants & Dentures: a locally owned practice where surgery, restorative care, and an in-house lab work together seamlessly under one roof. As independent doctors, every decision is made with one goal in mind: the best possible outcome for each patient.

What sets Jax Implants & Dentures apart is simple: everything is done in one place, by two doctors with a clear division of expertise. Dr. McRee leads all surgical care while Dr. Russell oversees restorative treatment and the in-house lab, ensuring a level of continuity and quality that is hard to find elsewhere. With more than 15,000 implants placed and a 99.7% dental implant success rate, Dr. McRee and Dr. Russell are proud to serve the Jacksonville community and look forward to helping every patient achieve the smile they deserve.

Martinez Dental Solutions

GENERAL, COSMETIC & IMPLANT DENTISTRY

Dr. Jose M. Martinez has been practicing the art of dentistry for 32 years. Growing up, his family was very close. So, after graduating from Southern Illinois University, he decided to return to Miami, where he practiced for almost 11 years. Along the way he married his beautiful wife Sandra and, 27 years later, his family has grown to include a son and a daughter. In 2005 they moved to Jacksonville where, with much hard work, in 2006 he proudly opened Southpoint Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry, followed by Signature Smiles in 2009. In 2016, he changed the names of both practices to Martinez Dental Solutions, to better represent the scope of dentistry they provide.

Dentistry, as many professions, has changed profoundly, not only as it relates to the materials used, but in the way it is delivered to patients. Improving patient care and the satisfaction of all involved is Dr. Martinez’s primary focus. He is known for an innovative commitment to the discovery and transfer of dental knowledge, superior skills and the highest degree of patient care and service. New and proven technologies give him additional choices in how to provide excellent patient care with the best materials around.

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

AFFILIATIONS

American Academy of Implant Dentistry

American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

American Dental Association

Florida Dental Association

North East District Dental Association

Hispanic Dental Association

JOSE M. MARTINEZ, DMD, PA

SOUTHSIDE:

6817 Southpoint Pkwy., Suite 302, Jacksonville, FL 32216

(904) 296-6820

ST. JOHNS: 3546 St. Johns Bluff Rd. S., Unit 114, Jacksonville, FL 32224 (904) 996-8162 MartinezDentalSolutions.com

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery

EREZ STERNBERG, MD | HOLLIE HICKMAN, DO | ELLEN HANCOCK, MD | CHRISTOPHER BATES, MD ABBY THREET, MD | ROBERT BURK III, MD

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery is Northeast Florida's premier destination for surgical and non-surgical aesthetic care. Since 1993, we have empowered patients to look and feel their best through exceptional patient care, advanced technology, and outstanding results. Offering a comprehensive range of cosmetic surgical procedures and non-surgical treatments, our talented surgeons and providers deliver personalized care designed to help each patient achieve their aesthetic goals with confidence.

Over the past three decades, Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery has grown into one of the region's most respected aesthetic practices, encompassing five locations, six Plastic Surgeons, eight Advanced Aesthetic Practitioners, and six Skin Health Specialists. This depth of expertise allows us to provide exceptional patient care while crafting your unique, personalized care plan.

As a leading provider of cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine in Northeast Florida, PVPS offers patients access to two state-of-the-art surgical facilities featuring accredited and licensed operating rooms. Supported by Anesthesiologists, CRNAs, and Registered Nurses, our surgical centers provide first-class care in a safe, comfortable, and patient-focused environment.

For patients seeking non-surgical solutions, PVPS offers a comprehensive portfolio of treatments, including Botox®, dermal fillers, medical-grade skincare, laser resurfacing, hair restoration, and feminine wellness services. Convenient and highly effective, these treatments deliver remarkable results with minimal downtime and can be truly transformative.

Choosing a plastic surgeon is one of the most important decisions a patient can make. For more than 30 years, PVPS has built its reputation on expertise, safety, innovation, and exceptional outcomes. Our commitment is simple: to help every patient enhance their natural beauty while providing an unparalleled experience in a welcoming and supportive environment.

To learn more about our services and locations, visit www.pvps.com.

GATE PARKWAY

11512 Lake Mead Ave., #513, Jacksonville, FL 32256

PONTE VEDRA

209 Ponte Vedra Park Dr., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

ANNEX

220 Ponte Vedra Park Dr., #140 Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

NOCATEE

480 Town Plaza Ave., #150, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081

AMELIA ISLAND

5472 1st Coast Hwy., #3, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

Jackson C. Tan, MD, PhD, PT

PHYSICAL MEDICINE & REHABILITATION

Dr. Tan is Board Certified by the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and serves as Medical Director of Occupational and Rehabilitation Center (ORC). With four decades of service, ORC remains Northeast Florida’s longest-established independent outpatient Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) practice specializing in musculoskeletal (MSK) and neuromusculoskeletal (NMSK) injuries, including spine, joint, and pain rehabilitation. With three convenient locations, ORC’s healthcare team is dedicated to delivering comprehensive rehabilitation, spine care, functional restoration, and wellness services. ORC features private treatment rooms for one-on-one physical therapy and heated indoor therapy pools for guided aquatic rehabilitation.

Dr. Tan shares Northeast Florida’s Leading Physicians distinction with his “Top Doc Team,” an interdisciplinary group of licensed professionals specializing in PM&R, MSK and NMSK medicine, spine and joint rehabilitation, acute, subacute, and chronic pain management, functional medicine, and nonsurgical orthopedic care. The team develops individualized, evidencebased, non-invasive treatment plans focused on restoring mobility, reducing pain, improving function, and optimizing quality of life. Patients benefit from continuity of care, clinical expertise, and a patient-centered approach emphasizing conservative treatment options.

ORC has deep roots within the Jacksonville community, with many staff members being long-time residents. The ORC trademark, an upward spiral, symbolizes commitment to each patient’s progress, recovery, and longterm health and wellness journey.

Dr. Tan completed his residency in PM&R at New York University (NYU) Medical Center, where he was Chief Resident. Following publication of his medical textbook, Practical Manual of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Diagnostics, Therapeutics and Basic Problems, he received an “Outstanding Contribution Award” at the United Nations. A copy of the textbook is maintained at the Library of Congress, and it has been utilized by medical schools, residency programs, spine, joint, and pain specialists, and allied health professionals world-wide. Elsevier, a leading global medical publisher, is releasing the third edition—rebranded as Tan’s Practical Manual of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation—this year.

Dr. Tan has lectured extensively throughout the United States and internationally on PM&R, MSK/ NMSK medicine, spine and joint rehabilitation, physical therapy, and non-operative pain manage-ment topics. His publications have been widely cited by physicians, rehabilitation specialists, and research scientists. Prior to completing his residency, Dr. Tan earned a PhD in Physical Therapy from NYU and practiced as a physical therapist at the Hospital for Joint Diseases-Orthopedic Institute, the Occupational and Industrial Orthopedic Center, and alongside a pain management specialist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.

As a PM&R physician, also known as a physiatrist, Dr. Tan specializes in the conservative, non-surgical, and non-invasive treatment of MSK, NMSK, spine, and joint disorders. His clinical focus includes evaluation and management of neck pain, back pain, sciatica, disc-related conditions, spinal stenosis, sports and orthopedic injuries, joint pain, myofascial pain, work-related injuries, and functional limitations caused by injury, degeneration, or chronic disease. His treatment philosophy emphasizes restoring function, reducing pain, improving mobility, and facilitating a safe return to meaningful activities, maximizing each patient’s abilities.

CORPORATE OFFICE / SOUTHSIDE 6144 Gazebo Park Pl. S., Suite 101 Jacksonville, FL 32257 (904) 260-3011

ORANGE PARK / WESTSIDE 1409 Kingsley Avenue, Building 3, Orange Park, FL 32073 (904) 264-1402

DUNN AVENUE / NORTHSIDE / SOUTH GEORGIA 2425 Dunn Ave., Suite 1, Jacksonville, FL 32218 (904) 714-0208

Caven :Dental Group

At Caven Dental Group, trusted dental care has been part of Dr. Richard Caven’s family story for more than 160 years. His great-greatgrandfather was the founder and first president of the Florida Dental Association, helping establish organized dentistry in Florida. His greatgrandfather took the first dental X-ray in the state, and his grandfather was among the first periodontists in Florida after World War II.

That commitment to progress still runs deep. Today, Dr. Caven, Dr. Shelby Denman, and Dr. Logan Marks continue that legacy through a modern, comprehensive approach to dentistry built on careful diagnosis, clear communication, advanced techniques, and genuine concern for each patient’s long-term health.

From ceramic veneers, clear aligners, and sleep apnea treatment to implant dentistry and comprehensive restorative care, our doctors help patients make confident decisions about their health, their comfort, and their smile.

For patients who value thoughtful guidance, long-term relationships, and dentistry done with intention, Caven Dental Group offers a distinctly personal approach to modern care.

“Best dentist that I’ve ever had! I got a filling done today and Dr. Caven does such a good job, my Oura ring thought it was a nap!”

— Megan

“Gave me great education about my dental wellbeing and actually cared.”

— Sam

DR. RICHARD CAVEN • DR. SHELBY DENMAN

DR. LOGAN MARKS

8930 RG Skinner Pkwy., Jacksonville, FL 32256

(904) 645-3366 • CavenDental.com

Coastal Cosmetic Center

JACKSONVILLE & PONTE VEDRA BEACH

For patients searching for a plastic surgery practice built on experience, precision, and genuine patient care, Coastal Cosmetic Center in Jacksonville, Florida has been a trusted name for over 28 years. With an on-site ambulatory surgery center accredited by The Joint Commission and a full-service Med Spa under the same roof, the practice offers a comprehensive approach to aesthetics — from the med spa to the operating room.

Coastal Cosmetic Center is led by Plastic Surgeons Timothy E. Fee, MD, FACS and Jordan A. Bilezikian, MD, who value listening to their patients, understanding their goals, and delivering results that look natural and last. Both surgeons bring extensive training and a shared passion for aesthetic plastic surgery, with expertise in facial rejuvenation, breast enhancement, and body contouring. From facelifts and breast augmentations to tummy tucks and liposuction, patients can expect thoughtful surgical planning, meticulous technique, and attentive follow-up from consultation through recovery.

For those exploring non-surgical options, the Med Spa — led by Kate Shamp, DNP — offers wrinkle relaxers, dermal fillers, CoolSculpting, CoolPeel laser treatments, HydraFacial MD, microneedling, and medical-grade skin care, all within a physician-led practice where safety comes standard.

Whether considering surgery or simply curious, Coastal Cosmetic Center welcomes the conversation.

SOUTHPOINT (MAIN OFFICE)

4147 Southpoint Drive East Jacksonville, FL 32216

PONTE VEDRA 820 A1A N #9 Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 (904) 332-6774

www.coastalcosmetic.com

CRE8 Smile Studio

DISCOVERING YOUR BEST SMILE AT CRE8 SMILE STUDIO

In a world where first impressions matter, a confident, radiant smile can open doors. At CRE8 Smile Studio, that smile is more than just cosmetic—it’s the result of comprehensive oral health care delivered with artistry and precision. Led by Dr. Susan Prater, the practice blends advanced cosmetic dentistry with full-service solutions, from routine cleanings to complex restorative treatments. While known for stunning transformations like veneers, Dr. Prater approaches every procedure as both a science and an art, enhancing each patient’s natural features for results that look beautiful and feel completely authentic. Using advanced technology and a meticulous, collaborative approach, she refines symmetry, brightness, and harmony to create healthy, functional smiles built to last.

Patient comfort is at the heart of the CRE8 experience. The calming, spalike environment helps ease nerves, while conscious sedation options make you feel more comfortable during the procedure. This gentle approach allows patients to remain relaxed and at ease even during longer or more involved treatments. By balancing aesthetic excellence with clinical expertise, Dr. Prater crafts personalized veneers and smile makeovers that restore confidence and reflect individuality. Whether you’re seeking a subtle refresh or a complete transformation, CRE8 Smile Studio delivers smiles that don’t just look great—they feel strong, healthy, and truly life-changing."

12620 Beach Blvd., #18, Jacksonville, FL 32246 (904) 620-0404 • @CRE8SmileStudio www.cre8smilestudio.com

Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine (FIRM)

KEVIN L. WINSLOW, MD | TERESA M. ERB, MD

ADRIENNE L. GENTRY, DO | VIJI SUNDARAM, MD

Founded in 1991, the Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine (FIRM) has helped bring over 20,000 babies into the world. Recognized as one of America's Best Fertility Clinics by Newsweek and earning top scores from FertilityIQ.com, FIRM is among the nation’s leading infertility practices.

FIRM's commitment to patient care has resulted in some of the highest pregnancy success rates in the country. Open seven days a week, its experienced nursing and embryology teams provide year-round IVF services. All physicians are dual board-certified in obstetrics/gynecology and reproductive endocrinology/infertility.

Founder Dr. Kevin Winslow trained at the renowned Jones Institute. Dr. Teresa Erb holds two patents from her research in embryonic stem cell development. Dr. Adrienne Gentry previously served as an assistant professor at Virginia Tech. Dr. Viji Sundaram trained in robotic surgery in San Francisco.

FIRM offers multilingual support and has offices in Jacksonville (Downtown and South), Tallahassee, and Daytona.

CONTACT: (904) 399-5620 • firmjax.com

Downtown: 841 Prudential Dr., Suite 260, Jacksonville, FL 32207

South: 14540 Old St. Augustine Rd., Suite 2503, Jacksonville, FL 32258

FOLLOW US: facebook.com/firmjax

Health Pointe Jacksonville

THE LAST DOCTOR YOU’LL WISH YOU’D FOUND SOONER.

Your periods are brutal. Your hormones are a mystery. Your fertility journey has taken more from you than anyone knows. Or maybe you’re over 40, your body feels foreign to you, and every specialist has sent you home with a shrug.

You’re not crazy. You’re not dramatic. And you are absolutely not out of options.

Dr. Julee Miller, DAcCHM, AP, FABORM, has spent nearly 20 years treating the women Jacksonville’s medical system couldn’t figure out. As one of only two FABORM-certified fertility and women’s health specialists in Jacksonville — with a background on the 2004 Olympic Sports Rehabilitation Team and over 250,000 patient treatments — she brings a depth of expertise that’s rare here.

But what her patients talk about most isn’t her credentials. It’s that she listened.

At Health Pointe Jacksonville, we treat the root cause of your pain, your hormonal chaos, your fertility challenges — not just the symptoms that are easiest to manage. Because when you finally find the right answers, everything changes.

SPECIALIZING IN: Fertility Support • Endometriosis • PCOS

Hormone Imbalances • Chronic Pain • Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Pregnancy & Postpartum Care

Ready to finally feel like yourself again?

DR. JULEE MILLER, DA c CHM, AP, FABORM

3840 Belfort Rd., Ste. 305, Jacksonville, FL 32216 (904) 448-0046 • HPJax.com

C.J. Henley, DMD

COSMETIC • FAMILY • DENTISTRY

At C.J. Henley, DMD, the goal is to create lasting relationships built on trust, compassion, and exceptional results. Dr. Henley and his team combine advanced training with a genuine commitment to personalized care, focusing on cosmetic, family, and restorative dentistry.

Patients appreciate the calm, welcoming atmosphere Dr. Henley has created and the time he takes to explain every step of treatment. His philosophy is simple: great dentistry should look beautiful, feel natural, and stand the test of time.

Dr. Henley earned his Bachelor of Science in Integrative Biology and his Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the University of Florida, where he received awards for ethics and cosmetic dentistry. He has also served as faculty in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Florida College of Dentistry.

In addition to his private practice, Dr. Henley serves on the Head and Neck Tumor Board at Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center. There, he works alongside surgeons and oncologists to restore oral health and confidence for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Dr. Henley has also served as President of the Northeast District Dental Association and as Delegate to the Florida Dental Association, advocating for the highest standards in patient care.

AFFILIATIONS:

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

C.J. HENLEY, DMD

3675 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32207 Office: 904.398.1549 • www.cjhenleydmd.com

Blanca Martinez-Hoppe, DMD, PA

HODGES FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dr. Blanca Martinez-Hoppe is a family and cosmetic dentist who provides exceptional care for patients of all ages. After graduating dental school with honors in 1997, she went on to complete a general practice residency program at Mt. Sinai Hospital in Miami Beach.

Dr. Hoppe then relocated to Tampa, where she joined a group practice and lived there for nine years until she decided to open Hodges Family & Cosmetic Dentistry and moved to Jacksonville to be closer to her family. At Hodges Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Martinez-Hoppe and her team of friendly professionals provide state-of-the-art services in a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. She believes in conservative cosmetic treatments for the restoration of a beautiful and long-lasting smile. You can expect compassionate and professional service. She believes in preventive care and maintenance for the overall health of the individual. When you visit with Dr. Martinez-Hoppe, you feel right at home. She always addresses your main concerns and listens attentively to your requests. Hodges Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is a dental practice devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile.

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

Lazzara Orthodontics

CREATING

THE BOLD CITY’S BEST SMILES FOR CHILDREN, TEENS, AND ADULTS

Drs. John Lazzara and Amy Poblenz believe that “genuine care” is as fundamental to their patients’ success as the orthodontic expertise embedded in every treatment plan. Their commitment extends beyond merely crafting beautiful smiles—it encompasses building trust, fostering confidence, and ensuring a memorable patient experience.

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

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

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

Optimotion Orthopaedics

HELPING HIPS & KNEES RECOVER FASTER IN JACKSONVILLE

Optimotion Orthopaedics, a leader in advanced joint replacement, has officially expanded into Northeast Florida with a new facility in Orange Park. Renowned in Central Florida for clinical excellence, the practice brings its hallmark commitment to rapid recovery and tissuesparing techniques to the First Coast.

To spearhead clinical care at its new office, Optimotion welcomes accomplished orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Christopher Passariello. Alongside founder Dr. Steve Nguyen, he offers specialized expertise in advanced joint reconstruction, arthroscopy, and complex fracture care. A cornerstone of their innovative care is a minimally invasive lateral approach for knee replacements. This advanced, proven technique navigates from the side of the joint to carefully preserve critical muscles and ligaments. By sparing these vital structures, the approach significantly reduces post-operative pain and dramatically accelerates healing.

While routine consultations take place at the Wells Road clinic, advanced surgical procedures—including robotic-assisted joint replacements— will be performed nearby at Baptist Medical Center South.

To introduce these advanced treatments, the practice is hosting a series of complimentary educational seminars and luncheons locally. To view upcoming sessions or to RSVP, visit Optimotion’s “Events” webpage or call 904-584-4411.

Pediatric Eye Consultants of North Florida

PEDIATRIC OPHTHALMOLOGY / ADULT STRABISMUS SURGERY

Pediatric Eye Consultants of North Florida delivers comprehensive pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus care to patients across Northeast Florida and beyond. Our clinicians are highly experienced, expertly trained, and dedicated to providing exceptional, personalized care.

To better serve busy families, Dr. Duss recently launched a VIP program that expedites new consultations and follow up appointments, gives access to preferred/flexible appointment times, and provides a dedicated coordinator and private line for communication. Learn more: https:// www.kidseyesjax.com/membership

PEDIATRIC EYE CARE:

Failed Vision Screenings/Routine Eye Exams • Contact Lenses

Amblyopia • Strabismus • Myopia Progression • Ptosis

Genetic Syndromes • Accommodative/ Convergence Dysfunction Retinopathy of Prematurity Screenings

ADULT SERVICES:

Strabismus • Diplopia • Cranial Nerve Palsies

Traumatic Brain Injury/ Stroke • Demyelinating/Neuromuscular Junction Disease • Thyroid Eye Disease (Graves)

DR. CHRISTOPHER PASSARIELLO

1731 Wells Rd., Orange Park, FL 32073 (904) 584-4411 • optimotion.com

Boutique Breast Imaging

DR. KATHRYN PEARSON, MD

Abetter mammogram starts with breast experts. At Boutique Breast Imaging, your care is in the hands of fellowship-trained, board-certified radiologists who specialize exclusively in breast imaging. Founded and led by Dr. Kathryn Pearson, M.D.—a Stanfordand UCSF-educated breast imaging radiologist—our team is known for providing dedicated, compassionate care with the highest diagnostic accuracy, lowest unnecessary recall and biopsy rates, and the least anxiety and discomfort possible. From mammograms to biopsies and personalized consultations, we deliver the most comprehensive evaluations with expedited results in a supportive, state-of-the-art setting. Most insurance accepted.

6871 Belfort Oaks Place Jacksonville, FL 32216 (904) 901-0110 BoutiqueBreastImaging.com

John-Paul Pham, MD, FACC, FSCAI INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY

Dr. John-Paul Pham is a board-certified Interventional Cardiologist whom specializes in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of adult cardiovascular disease.

Dr. Pham is trained and certified in a variety of invasive cardiovascular procedures including cardiac catheterization, coronary intervention/stenting, valvuloplasty, left atrial appendage occlusion, peripheral vascular intervention, and deep and superficial vein intervention.

Dr. Pham is an active member of the American Heart Association, the American College of Cardiology, and the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions. He has made TV and radio appearances on WJXT and WOKV and gives talks regularly around the community and statewide.

Dr. Pham is well-published in peer-reviewed journals and remains engaged in cutting edge cardiovascular research with the Sarah Cannon Research Institute and the East Coast Institute for Research.

8075 Gate Parkway West, Unit 302, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904.513.3179 • phamcvcenter.com

Rick K. Harrison, DMD, PA

JAX BEACH COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY

After receiving a Bachelor Degree in Science from Jacksonville University, Dr. Rick Harrison graduated from Louisville School of Dentistry with his Doctor of Medical Dentistry Degree. He is Invisalign certified and attends continuing education classes in all phases of dentistry to stay up-todate on current trends. In addition to providing routine dental care, Dr. Harrison provides several cosmetic options—from porcelain crowns to Invisalign orthodontics—and ZOOM Whitening. Dr. Harrison is committed to earning the trust of his patients and he strives for continuous improvement at all levels. His aim is to exceed your expectations.

227 11th Avenue S., Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 (904) 241-4237 • www.JaxBeachDentist.com

JACKSONVILLE MEDICAL SPECIALISTS

The American Board of Medical Specialties is a not-for-profit organization that represents 40-plus medical specialty boards that establish and maintain high standards for doctor certification and the delivery of safe, quality medical care by certified doctor specialists. Board certification means the physician graduated from a recognized medical school as either an MD or DO, completed several years of training in an accredited residency program, and passed an extensive written exam given by the board. In other words, when you choose a doctor who is board certified, you can be confident he or she meets nationally recognized standards for education, knowledge, experience and skills to provide high quality care in a specific medical specialty. The following list is comprised of just some of the Jacksonville Magazine clients who are board-certified physicians practicing in Northeast Florida. In addition to their names and practices, we also have included their board certifications and specialties.

ABDULLAH ALANAZI, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Otolaryngologist

• Otorhinolaryngology/ENT

DUNBAR ALCINDOR, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurosurgeon

• Neurosurgery

VAQAR ALI, MD, FACC, FSCAI, FABVM

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Interventional Cardiology

BENJAMIN ALWOOD, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

YOUSSEF AL-SAGHIR, MD, FACC, FABVM

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Interventional Cardiology

ABOUBAKR AMER, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurosurgeon

• Neurosurgery

JOHN ANDERSON, DPM

UF Health Jacksonville

• Podiatry

• Reconstructive Surgery and Sports Medicine

KRISTI ANDERSON, DO, MS

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

DOMINICK ANGIOLILLO, MD, PHD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Interventional Cardiology

AHMAD ARMOUTI, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

DONALD A. BARNHORST, JR., MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in Cataract and Cornea Surgery

THEODORE BASS, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Interventional Cardiology

• Internal Medicine

CHRISTOPHER BATES, MD

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery

• Plastic Surgery

RAMON BAUTISTA, MD, MBA

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

PHILLIP BELL, MD

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

JANET A BETCHKAL, MD

Bowden Eye and Associates

• Ophthalmology

JORDAN BILEZIKIAN, MD

Coastal Cosmetic Center

• Surgery

• General Surgery

• Plastic Surgery

WILLIAM BOLGER, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Otolaryngologist

• Otorhinolaryngology/ENT

FRANK W BOWDEN III, MD

Bowden Eye & Associates

• Ophthalmologist

JOHN BULLOCK, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

• Oculoplastic Surgery

ANTHONY BUNNELL, MD, DMD, FACS

UF Health Jacksonville

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

GERALD BURFORD, MD

Millenium Physician Group

• Internal Medicine

ROBERT W. BURK III, MD

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery

• Plastic Surgery

• General Surgery

CHRISTINE BURKE, OD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometrist

• Optometry

EVAN BUSBY, DMD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

DANIELLE T. CALLEGARI, OD, FAAO

Atlantic Eye Institute

• Optometrist

DAVID CARO, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Emergency Medicine

HIRAM CARRASQUILLO, MD, FAAOS

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Foot & Ankle Orthopedic Surgeon

• Orthopaedic Surgery

DANIEL CARUSO, MD, DDS

UF Health Jacksonville

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

ALEXANDER CARVAJAL GONZALEZ, MD, MSC, PHD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

MICHAEL CASTELLANO, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

RAMON CASTELLO, MD, FACC, FASE

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Cardiovascular Disease

AHMAD TAREK CHAMI, MD

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Internal Medicine

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Interventional Cardiology

• Echocardiography

CALVIN CHOI, MD, MHA

UF Health Jacksonville

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Interventional Cardiology

• Nuclear Cardiology (National Board of Echocardiology Diplomate)

AMIT CHOKSHI, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Cataract, LASIK and Cornea Surgery

ULAS CIKLA, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurosurgeon

• Neurosurgery

MARK CLAYMAN, MD

Dr. Clayman’s Plastic Surgery

Center & Miracle Spa

• Plastic Surgery

JESSE COHEN, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

ASHLEY COWART, OD, FAAO

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometrist

• Optometry

RYAN CROOKS, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

MATTHEW CUNNINGHAM, MD, FASRS

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

• Medical Examiners

JASON DAY, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Cornea & Refractive Surgery

• Ophthalmology

MICHAEL DeFAZIO, MD, FACS

Florida Plastic Surgery Group

• Plastic Surgery

WHITNEY DE OLIVEIRA, DO

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

ANDREA DENEEN, MD

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Cardiovascular Disease

ANKIT DESAI, MD, FACS

Florida Plastic Surgery Group

• Plastic Surgery

MICHELLE L. DIAZ, MD

Atlantic Eye Institute

• Cataract

• Glaucoma

• Refractive

• LASIK

• Ophthalmology

PAUL DOUGHERTY, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

• Orthopaedic Trauma

DONALD M. DOWNER, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

• Cornea Surgery

J. PARKER DuPREE, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

• Medical Retina, Surgical Retina

CHARLES V. DUSS, MD

Atlantic Eye Institute

• Cataract

• Refractive

• LASIK

• Glaucoma

• Ophthalmology

DAWN DUSS, MD

Pediatric Eye Consultants of North Florida

• Pediatric Ophthalmology

• Adult Strabismus Surgery

• Ophthalmology

FIRAS EL SABBAGH, MD, FHRS

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology

• Nuclear Cardiology

TERESA M ERB, MD

Florida Institute for

Reproductive Medicine

• OB/GYN and Reproductive Endocrinology/Infertility

KHADEEJA ESMAIL, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Internal Medicine

BOYD EVANS, MD

Millenium Physician Group

• Family Medicine

IBRAHIM FAHDI, MD, FACC, FASE

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Nuclear Cardiology

• Echocardiography

MICHAEL FALLUCCO, MD, FACS

Florida Plastic Surgery Group

• Plastic Surgery

TIRBOD FATTAHI, MD, DDS, FACS

UF Health Jacksonville

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

TIMOTHY FEE, MD, FACS

Coastal Cosmetic Center

• Surgery

• Plastic Surgery

• General Surgery

AUSTIN R. FELVER, OD

Atlantic Eye Institute

• Optometrist

RUI FERNANDES, MD, DMD, FACS, FRCS

UF Health Jacksonville

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

JOANNA FRANCIS, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Cataract & Cornea Surgery

WILLIAM FRAZIER, MD, PHD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

KATHRYN B. FREIDL, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Cataract & Glaucoma Surgery

MICHAEL FREIDL, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

BRETT FRYKBERG, MD

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Adult Reconstruction

• Orthopaedic Surgery

OMAR GAYASADDIN, DO

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Cataract & Glaucoma Surgery

ADRIENNE L. GENTRY, DO

Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine

• OB/GYN and Reproductive Endocrinology/Infertility

ADAM GITLIN, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

• Orthopaedic Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery

STEVEN GODWIN, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Emergency Medicine

CHRISTIAN GUIER, OD, FAAO

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometrist

• Optometry

ABHIJIT GUNDALE, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Otolaryngologist

• Otorhinolaryngology/ENT

ARPETA GUPTA, MD

Millenium Physician Group

• Endocrinology

CHARLES HADDAD, MD

Millenium Physician Group

• Family Medicine

JUDELLA HADDAD-LACLE, MD

Millenium Physician Group

• Family Medicine

IRRAM HAMDANI, MD

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Sleep Medicine

• Pulmonary Disease

ELLEN HANCOCK, MD

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery

• Plastic Surgery

ALLISON HARMEL, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Comprehensive Ophthalmology

• Ophthalmology

C.M. HARRIS, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

• Comprehensive Ophthalmology

SAIFID A. HASAN, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Cataract, LASIK and Cornea Surgery

DAVID HAYES, DO

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

• Glaucoma Surgery

HOLLIE HICKMAN, MD

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery

• Plastic Surgery

S.K. STEVEN HOUSTON III, MD, FASRS

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

YASMIN ISLAM, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

• Glaucoma Surgery

ALI-MUSA JAFFER, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Clinical Neurophysiology

• Neurology

ABDALLAH JEROUDI, MD

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

• Medical Examiners

NISARG JOSHI, MD

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

SAJID KADIR, MBBS, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Internal Medicine

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Critical Care Medicine

BRANDON KAMBACH, MD

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

KEVIN KAPLAN, MD

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

• Sports Medicine

AHMAD KASRAEIAN, MD, FACS

Kasraeian Urology

• Urology

ALI KASRAEIAN, MD, FACS

Kasraeian Urology

• Urology

SINA KASRAEIAN, MD

Southeast Orthopedic Specialists

• Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine

MARC KAYE, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

• Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery

STEPHEN KEIM, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Internal Medicine

• Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology

(ABIM Certified)

NICKELLE KELLOUGH, OD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometrist

• Optometry

YAZAN KHATIB, MD, FACC, FSCAI, FSVM

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Interventional Cardiology

GARRY KITAY, MD

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

• Hand Surgery

KENZO J. KOIKE, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Cataract & Glaucoma Surgery

DAVID A. KOSTICK, MD, FACS

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Oculoplastic, Orbital & Lacrimal Surgery

AMANDA KOVACS, OD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometry

SUPARNA KRISHNAIENGAR, MBBS, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

JAYA B. KUMAR, MD, FASRS

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

NATASHA KRZYANOWSKI, OD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometrist

• Optometry

SHANNON LABOY, MD, MS

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

SUMANT LAMBA, MD, FACC, FSCAI

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Interventional Cardiology

C. STEVEN LANCASTER, OD, FAAO

Atlantic Eye Institute

• Optometrist

PEI WEN LAWING, OD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometrist

• Optometry

JOHN LAZZARA, DDS, MS, MBA, ABD

Lazzara Orthodontics

• Orthodontics

JOSEPH LEGACY, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

IRENE T. LEE, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Oculoplastic

LUIS LEÓN-ALVARADO, MD

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

LAWRENCE M. LEVINE, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

• Pediatric OphthalmologyEye Muscle Surgery

McGREGOR N. LOTT, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Cataract Surgery & Medical Retina

ELIAS MAVROFRIDES, MD

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

MADELINE MAHOWALD, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Internal Medicine

• Cardiovascular Disease

• ABP Certified

JERRY MAIDA, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Laser Refractive Surgery

STEVEN R. MAIER, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Cataract & Refractive Surgery

KARTIK MANGIPUDI, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

NARMADA MANNEM, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

YESSENIA MARQUEZ, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

BLANCA MARTINEZ-HOPPE, DMD, AACD

Hodges Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

• General Dentistry

JOSE MARTINEZ, DMD, PA

Martinez Dental Solutions

• Cosmetic Family Dentistry

SHALHALA MASOOD, MD

UF Health

• Pathology

JESSICA McCLUSKEY, MD

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

KIMBERLY McPHEARSON, DO

UF Health Jacksonville

• Internal Medicine

• Neurocritical Care

SAMIRA MEYMAND, MD

Meymand Oral Maxillofacial Surgery

• Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

JASON F. MILES, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Cataract & Cornea Surgery

KELSEY M. MILESKI, OD, FAAO

Atlantic Eye Institute

• Optometrist

JULEE MILLER, DacCHM, AP, FABORM

Health Pointe Jacksonville

Acupuncture + Wellness Clinic

• Acupuncture

MARINA MORANTE SILVA, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

TOMAS MORENO, MD

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

• Medical Examiners

RAUL MORENO, MD

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

• Medical Examiners

RAGU MURTHY, MD

Well&You

• Cardiology

ROSALIE NOCELLA, MD, DDS

UF Health Jacksonville

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

RONALD NORMAN, OD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometrist

• Optometry

KELECHUKWU OKORO, MD

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Internal Medicine

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Interventional Cardiology

• Nuclear Cardiology

• Echocardiography

SHEILA PABON, MD

Atlantic Eye Institute

• Ophthalmology

PANKIT PARIKH, MD

Well&You

• Radiology

• Interventional Radiology

JOSEPH W. PARKS IV, MD

Florida Plastic Surgery Group

• Plastic Surgery

CHRISTOPHER PASSARIELLO, MD

Optimotion Orthopaedics

• Orthopedic Surgery

DEEPAK KUMAR PASUPULA, MD, MPH, FACC, FHRS

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Internal Medicine

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology

• Cardiology

• Echocardiography

JANESSA S. PATEL, OD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometrist

• Optometry

RACHANA PATEL, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmology, Fellowship-Trained in Cataract Surgery

RACHEL PATEL, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Cataract & Cornea Surgery

RAVI R. PATEL, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Cataract & Cornea Surgery

KATHRYN PEARSON, MD

Boutique Breast Imaging

• Radiology

• Breast Imaging

RUSSELL PECORARO, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

• Medical Retina

MARY PENTEL, MD

Southside Dermatology

• Dermatology

• Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery

JOHN-PAUL PHAM, MD

Pham Cardiovascular Center

• Internal Medicine

• Interventional Cardiology

• Cardiology

• Echocardiography

• Nuclear Cardiology

RICHARD PICERNO, MD

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

JASON PIRAINO, DPM

UF Health Jacksonville

• Podiatry

• Foot and Ankle Surgery

AMY POBLENZ, DMD, MS

Lazzara Orthodontics

• Orthodontics

PAWAN PULI, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

MICHAEL PULLY, MD, PHD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

DANIA QARYOUTI, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

YAZAN RADAIDEH, MD, MS

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

LINTU RAMACHANDRAN, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Internal Medicine

• Neurocritical Care

• Neurology

NATHANIEL RIEVESCHL, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Cataract and Cornea Surgery

JACOB RINKINEN, MD

Florida Plastic Surgery Group

• Plastic Surgery

KIMBERLY A. RIORDAN, OD, FAAO

Florida Eye Specialists

• Optometrist

• Optometry

JOSE RIVAS RIOS, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Internal Medicine

• Cardiovascular Disease

JOHN RODDY, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

NOEL RODRIGUEZ, DMD, MS

Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics & Implant Dentistry

• Prosthodontics

CORAL RUIZ-MOJICA, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Otolaryngologist

• Otorhinolaryngology/ENT

CHRISTEN M. RUSSELL, OD

Atlantic Eye Institute

• Optometrist

ELIAS SAIKALI, MD

Millenium Physician Group

• Internal Medicine

ADITYA SAINI, MD, MMM

UF Health Jacksonville

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology

KARIM J. SAMARA, MD

Atlantic Eye Institute

• Ophthalmology

• Cataract, Cosmetic and Reconstructive

• Surgery

• Lasik

• Glaucoma

ROBERT SAVAREGE, DO

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

• Pain Medicine

FIRAS SBEIH, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Otolaryngologist

• Otorhinolaryngology/ENT

HOWARD SCHARE, DMD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

ALAN SCHIMMEL, MD, FACC

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Internal Medicine

• Cardiovascular Disease

CHRISTOPHER SCUDERI, DO

Millenium Physician Group

• Family Medicine/OMT

KATE SHAMP, DNP, APRN-BC

Coastal Cosmetic Center

• Plastic Surgery

JULIE SHANER, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

• Adult Reconstructive Orthopaedics

RAJESH K. SHETTY, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Cataract & Glaucoma Surgery

SCOTT SILLIMAN, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

DANIEL SOFFER, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Interventional Cardiology

GREGORY SOLES, MD

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

DANTE SORRENTINO, MD

Clay Eye Physicians & Surgeons

• Ophthalmology

• Comprehensive Ophthalmology

JONATHAN A. STAMAN, MD

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

• Vitreoretinal Diseases and Surgery

JAMES A. STAMAN, MD

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

• Vitreoretinal Diseases and Surgery

BRUCE STEINBERG, MD

Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville

• Orthopedic Surgery

• Hand Surgery

EREZ STERNBERG, MD

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery

• Plastic Surgery

• General Surgery

VALENTIN SUMA, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Nuclear Cardiology (Certification Board of Nuclear Cardiology)

• Diplomate National Board of Echocardiography

VIJI SUNDARAM, MD

Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine

• OB/GYN and Reproductive Endocrinology/Infertility

SIVA SURYADEVARA, MD, FACC, FSCAI

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Interventional Cardiology

RONALD P. SWENDRIS, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Ophthalmologist

• Cataract & Glaucoma Surgery

DAVID SWAIN, DPM, CWSP

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Podiatric Medicine

MUBBASHER SYED, MD, MPH, FACC, FSCAI

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Internal Medicine

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Interventional Cardiology

RABIH TABET, MD

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Internal Medicine

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Interventional Cardiology

• Nuclear Cardiology

• Echocardiography

JACKSON C. TAN, MD, PHD, PT, CIME

Occupational & Rehabilitation Center

• Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

DARYOUSH TAVANAIEPOUR, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurosurgeon

• Neurosurgery

KAROUSH TAVANAIEPOUR, DO

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurosurgeon

• Neurosurgery

KOUROSH TAVANAIEPOUR, DO

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurological Surgery

• Minimal Invasive and Complex Spine

NIRMAL THAPA, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Otolaryngologist

• Otorhinolaryngology/ENT

DANIEL THIELEMANN, MD

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• Sleep Medicine

• Neurology and Psychiatry

BENJAMIN J. THOMAS, MD

Florida Retina Institute

• Ophthalmology

• Vitreoretinal Diseases and Surgery

ABBY THREET, MD

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery

• Plastic Surgery

SUSHMA K. VANCE, MD

Atlantic Eye Institute

• Ophthalmology

GLADYS VELARDE, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Cardiovascular Disease

JOHNNY WASHINGTON, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

• Orthopaedic Sports Medicine

MARY-KATE WILSON, MD

Florida Eye Specialists

• Cataract & Oculoplastic

KEVIN L WINSLOW, MD

Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine

• OB/GYN and Reproductive Endocrinology/Infertility

PORTER YOUNG, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Orthopaedic Surgery

LENKA ZACHAR, MD

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute

• General Surgery

KATHERINE ZARROLI, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Neurologist

• Neurology

MARTIN ZENNI, MD

UF Health Jacksonville

• Internal Medicine

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Interventional Cardiology

• Nuclear Cardiology ✚

The Last of Us

One man ’s hunt for Jacksonville ’s remaining working pay phones. by Fabrizio Gowdy

Luring a recent rewatching of the 1989 cult-classic Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure, a revelation hit me. "I've never used a pay phone," I realized.

For those unfamiliar with Bill and Ted, the film follows a pair of teens who use a time-traveling phone booth to collect historical figures so they can ace their history final in “most excellent” fashion. I’d spotted a few pay phones around town over the years, so surely some of them still worked. At least one, right?

A little Googling turned up a handful of blogs claiming to map surviving pay phones, but most hadn’t been updated in years. The FCC stopped tracking pay phones in 2016, at which point fewer than 100,000 remained, down from a peak of 2.6 million in 1995.

In addition, I learned all major phone companies have abandoned the pay‑phone business entirely and are racing to retire POTS—Plain Old Telephone Service— by 2029. When copper phone lines are finally phased out, most remaining pay phones will likely go with them. My search suddenly had new urgency, and my casual curiosity quickly turned into an obsession. It was time for an excellent adventure of my own.

I started on Spring Park Road, where three pay phones sit within a short walk of each other. Two had broken handsets. The third, outside a Mexican grocery, looked promising until I lifted the receiver and

heard no dial tone. Just to be sure, I stepped inside and asked the cashier if the phone worked.

"No," he replied after a moment, staring at me like I might have just escaped a facility with padded cells.

I turned to Yelp and Reddit, which produced a few leads, but none panned out. The Hyatt receptionist had never heard of the pay phone rumored to be on the hotel’s fourth floor. The one supposedly at Shaw Family Seafood Company was equally mythical. I figured one place that might still have some working pay was the Duval County Jail, but I wasn't particularly interested in confirming that firsthand.

According to Google Street View, a Bill and Ted style phone booth stood outside Harold and George's Carwash on Cassat Avenue as late as October 2019. It vanished sometime between then and 2024. It might have been the last of its kind in the River City.

A Facebook post from 2022 mentioned a working phone fastened to the wall outside Flamingo Coffee in Murray Hill, but baristas told me it had been removed a couple years back. Another pay phone just outside Memorial Park has been turned into the “Banana Phone” by some imaginative artist.

Digging through the Florida Times-Union archives offered a glimpse into the demise of pay phones locally. A 2009 article explained that the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and city officials had come to see pay phones as outdated relics, nothing but magnets for crime and graffiti, and were happy to see them go. Just when I was ready to admit defeat, I struck gold. Not one but two working pay phones mentioned in an old Times-Union article were still there. And where were they hiding? Inside the St. James Building—City Hall—the very institution that cheered their demise.

Armed with a few quarters, I made my way to City Hall the next day. I asked a tired looking security guard where the pay phones were located and, after a confused pause, he pointed me to a hallway just across the atrium. I turned the corner, and there they were, in all their glory, protected all these years from vandalism and the elements. Two gleaming pay phones, mounted side by side on the wall as if they had recently been installed, eager to swallow whatever pocket change a prospective user might offer.

As an added bonus, there were a pair of mint condition phone books secured to the wall—the 2006 edition of the Yellow Pages, courteously provided by AT&T. Flipping through their crisp pages, I found an ad for a video rental store, a much younger looking John Morgan personal injury attorney advertisement and my family’s home phone number listed on Herschel Street, where we last lived 19 years ago.

I fiddled with the coin release lever, lifted the coin return flap, and inspected the entire device like I was encountering an alien craft that had landed in the woods. Fortunately, no one walked down the hall and saw me inspecting my prized find. It took me a few moments to work up the courage to check for a dial tone. I didn’t want Schrodinger's pay phone to be dead.

When I finally lifted the receiver, I heard a dial tone, followed by an automated voice: “50 cents for local calls, $1 for five minutes of long‑distance.” I plunked in two quarters and dialed my iPhone. When the caller ID flashed across my screen in all caps, I actually laughed out loud.

“PAY PHONE.”

Hanging up, I used my iPhone to call the number printed on the front of the pay phone. Sure enough, it started ringing. A sticker on it identifies a Cypress, California based company called Legacy as the pay phones’ service provider. When I called the company’s number, I find it has been disconnected.

I got in touch with City Hall’s building supervisor, Charles Williams, to ask who is operating the pay phones, how much the city is paying for them, and what will happen once copper landlines are phased out. Williams wasn’t aware that the phones still worked. After asking around, he reported back a few days later that no one else did either. In fact, no one at City Hall could say for sure how the phones are still sending and receiving calls.

“No one even comes to empty them,” Williams said. “They could be slap full of quarters.”

As for the copper phaseout, Williams thinks it’s unlikely to affect City Hall’s pay phones. He says there’s too much other infrastructure in the building that requires copper landlines.

So for now, if you’re feeling nostalgic, you can still make a call from a pay phone at City Hall. And if you are so inclined to give it a try yourself, I even left two quarters for you on page 904 of the phone book. Chances are, they’re still there. u

The opening lyrics of the theme song for the sitcom Friends nicely sum up the longtime relationships that led to the building of a dream home.

ammy and Carey Elam met Patti Vilardo 28 years ago while working on her custom home in Atlanta. They became quick friends, rearing their kids together in the same community. Decades later, when Patti decided to retire after 50 years working for Delta Airlines, she asked Tammy, an interior designer, and Carey, a general contractor, to collaborate on a project that would bring her permanently to Ponte Vedra Beach.

“We were thrilled,” recalls Tammy. "This meant we would share raising our grand babies together.”

The 6,500-square-foot dwelling reflects the owners’ love for family, travel, architecture and design. The home was designed initially for the layout of her lot, an L-shaped property located adjacent to the 13th hole of a golf course. Once the site plan was established, the next step was to create spaces that functioned well for the client.

Built by the Elams’ firm House & Home, Patti’s residence blends elements from different cultures and places she has visited into a cohesive and inviting whole. The use of natural materials and contrasting tones create a unique atmosphere, while colorful artwork and accents evoke the vibrancy of the destinations she cherishes. In fact, the home was designed to compliment her collections, the colors in her artwork and function as a gathering place for family and friends.

The homeowner has a large family and loves to cook, so it’s not surprising that spaces created for entertaining were high on the list of desired elements. For example, the double islands in the kitchen were very important to Patti. Connecting the main kitchen to an additional outdoor kitchen was also intentional.

Being originally from New Orleans, Patti loves a good seafood boil. “We added a recessed burner in the outdoor island specifically designed for ease of access,” says Tammy. "It pairs well with her draft beer taps and the pizza oven, directly off the pool.”

Speaking of the pool: the homeowner’s favorite shade is blue. As such, whether a friend is staying in the 800-square-foot guest house, equipped with it’s own two-car garage, living quarters, kitchenette and laundry room, or a guest in the main house—complete with five-and-a-half baths, four bedrooms, an elevator, gym, hidden pantry, kitchen, another three-car garage—bright, bold and peaceful blues meet the eyes.

As one enters the main house, guests are greeted by a floating stairwell leading up a textured wall of stone. The space was so large that the designer believed the addition of some kind of textured treatment and a contrast of color was necessary to

create dimension. However, the glass rails result in a feeling of air and openness, allowing one to appreciate the stone from every angle.

As is the case with many homes near the beach, sunlight was a primary consideration. “We wanted to make sure each space had plenty of light,” says the designer. “Large windows and sliders were used to keep the spaces flowing. We mixed metals throughout with gold finishes at the top of the list.”

When it was time to select the flooring, the choice was easy. Again, the play of light was most important. Patti fell in love with an Italian white oak with an oiled finish. It was light in color and offered large sized planks, a feature preferred by the interior designer.

Once the floor plan was complete and the interior finishes selected, the next phase was selecting furnishings for the home. Patti had numerous piece of art and personal items that would be kept and

featured in the home. For the new furnishings, Tammy called upon another old friend and professional, design associate Peggy Martine from Jacksonville Furniture Mart.

“Peggy and I work in tandem together to build off of what my client and I have started on the construction side,” says Tammy. “We had a blast making the selections for Patti’s home. We went to the High Point Market and made purposeful selections on her behalf. Patti’s fabrics were chosen not only for their color and texture but also for their performance. We even took a Maitland Smith piece and hid the doggie door in it off the kitchen for her two pups. This is one of Patti’s favorite things in the house.”

“My partnership with Tammy is very special, and being involved in Patti's home was exciting from day one,” says Peggy. “Space planning and selecting furnishings that complemented the many unique details Tammy and Patti brought to the table was truly a joy.”

Another favorite room is the master bedroom. The space is feminine and soft, with walls dressed in a softer shade of blue and delicate pendants over the nightstands in lieu of lamps. The goal was to give the homeowner a cozy place to land at the end of the day.

“If I had to choose a favorite spot in the home, I would say it is what we called the ‘she shed,’” says Tammy. Her associate at Jacksonville Furniture Mart readily seconds that opinion. “I agree with Tammy that the 'She Shed' is especially remarkable and a wonderful reflection of Patti. The original artwork throughout the home, collected during Patti's travels, is both beautiful and inspiring,” says Peggy.

“This is not a space that we designed specifically. It’s more about our client,” concludes Tammy. “It’s a reflection of who she is, where

she’s been and what’s she’s done. From the New Orleans prints on the walls, her mother’s chair in the corner, her cookbooks and all of her memorabilia from 50 years with Delta, it says, ‘Patti.’” u

General Contractor: Carey Elam, House & Home

Interior Design: Tammy Elam, House & Home

Plan Designer: Element Design

Furnishings: Peggy Martin, Jacksonville Furniture Mart

Flooring & Tile: Quality Flooring by Frank Milea

Pool Design, Landscaping & Hardscape: Cascade Outdoor Design

Plumbing Fixtures: Hollingsworth

Appliances (Interior & Exterior): First Coast Supply

Windows & Doors: Manning Building Supply

Rugs: Jaffe Rug Gallery

Now We’re Cooking

When Bre and Rishi Razdan were looking to renovate and upgrade their kitchen, they wanted to make sure it was a space they would love for many years to come. To make that dream a reality, the couple enlisted the help of a team of local design pros, led by Cherie Sussman of River Story Design House.

The goal was to make the space feel timeless, but also functional. Perhaps the most important change involved substraction instead of addition. A wall between the kitchen and sitting room was removed to open the floor plan. As with most homes, the kitchen is the focal point of daily living. So, instead of being hidden away, the kitchen space is what everyone sees when stepping through the front door. And what they see is dramatically different than the previous interior design.

“By removing a major wall and making the kitchen open to the living room, it felt breathable in the home,” says Sussman. “We knew it needed to be beautiful but also very functional. The hidden pantries did just that. They provided a lot of storage.”

In the kitchen, the appliance wall is the star of the show, bolstered by a pop of color. “We went with a deep green that feels warm and also dramatic,” says the designer. “That wall houses the panel-ready refrigerator and freezer, a pantry on either side with French, brass finished cremone bolts and built-in library above. We added decorative feet to the ends for added detail.”

Other design highlights include a plastered custom-design hood, creme and white floral Zellige backsplash tile and a Wolf range with red knobs, adding a nice flow to the entire space.

BEFORE

“Rishi’s favorite color is red and we would joke that we would never ever use that color in the space, but when the Wolf range came with red knobs instead of the polished nickel ones that we had ordered, we decided to keep them,” laughs Sussman. “The pop of added color was great. It worked in the kitchen and was a nod to something he loved. Plus, Breanna is an amazing cook, so the large range was a must-have for the kitchen renovation.”

The white oak island features beautiful Cristallo Quartzite countertops, a Perrin & Rowe bridge faucet and Visual Comfort lighting pendants.  Also, the tray ceiling was leveled and white oak tongue and groove was added for extra style and warmth.

“We used beige and white tile for the backsplash, and a brass bridge faucet that felt old, a vintage Turkish rug, antique vases, a plastered hood, a white oak island, a white oak v-groove ceiling, and pendants that stopped the show,” says Sussman. “The mix of old and new are what anchors the space. It’s not supposed to feel perfect, it’s supposed to feel lived in.” u

RESOURCES

Interior Designer: River Story Design House

Contractor: Pacot Construction

Renderings & Layout Support: M. Bond Designs

Kitchen Cabinets: Smith Products

Flooring: Handy Andy

Painting: B&B Drywall

Countertops: UMI

Photography: Maris Kirs Photography

Shades of Nay

THE KITCHEN IS THE HEART OF MOST HOMES. KNOWING THAT, PICKING THE RIGHT PAINT COLORS IS ESSENTIAL.

BY PAT GILHAM

Choosing the perfect paint color for your kitchen can feel like a very big decision. After all, this room is often seen as the heart of the home. There are countless shades available to choose from; however, some colors can actually work against your goals for this all-important space, making it feel less inviting, smaller, or even negatively impacting your mood. Here are five of the more common color selection mistakes to avoid in a kitchen, helping you to make a more informed decision and create a space that is both beautiful and functional.

DARK BROWNS OR TERRA-COTTA: These earthy shades can make your kitchen feel small, dark, and dingy. So, with this in mind, it is best to avoid painting entire walls in this color. However, it is okay to have a few accents of this hue in your décor. However, it shouldn't rule your color scheme. Having brown or terra-cotta walls has been shown to lower the value of your home, which isn't great if you're planning on selling your home soon. Instead, it’s best to stick to warm neutrals or muted tones if this is the vibe you're going for.

BRIGHT YELLOW: Although yellow feels like  a very warm and sunny shade, it is also a color that should be avoided if you don't want your kitchen to look too cheap. Yellow is a  highly saturated hue and is very stimulating to  your emotions, and not in a good way. Bright shades of yellow can leave you feeling overstimulated, overexcited, anxious, or nervous. Yellow is also quite a distracting color and can overpower the room. It can be very distracting, taking the attention away from other elements of the room. If you do want to apply some yellow tones in your kitchen, it's best to choose just a feature wall, such as a backsplash or few kitchen décor items.

MOSS GREEN: Green is known as being a very soothing, relaxing, and nurturing color. However, it is best to avoid sage greens and moss greens in your kitchen. These shades can make the room seem dark and dingy. Plus, they can make the kitchen feel much smaller than it actually is, which is not something you want. Instead, it is best to opt for muted or pastel greens. These alternative green shades will help you to bring some life into the room and can add a bit of tranquilli-

ty to the space, rather than making the space feel small.

PURPLE: Vivid purple shades are known to  be very stimulating. While this may be great for some spaces, it's not great for a kitchen. Deep purple shades will work much better as accents around the room rather than as the main wall paint color. Using shades that are too vivid in the kitchen can make it feel too overwhelming, especially in a room where there is often clutter lying  around, such as cooking utensils while preparing a meal. If you are really set on having purple walls in your kitchen, it would be much better to use a lighter shade or a pastel shade to make it feel lighter and more muted.

RED: This is a very controversial choice for a  kitchen, a space where you want to relax and unwind while cooking meals, hosting friends, or eating. The color red is often seen as being too distracting for the kitchen. It can be a  very overstimulating hue. Despite there being many shades of red available, they are almost  always highly stimulating and can make a  room feel more dingy, which is not something you want for a kitchen. u

Know Before You Grow

FLORIDA’S BRIGHT SUN, SEASONAL RAINS AND WARM WEATHER MAKE IT AN IDEAL ENVIRONMENT FOR INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES.

The Sunshine State’s lush, subtropical climate supports gardening and outdoor living year-round. It also creates ideal conditions for invasive plants to spread. Research shows that many property owners are often unaware of a plant’s invasive potential and rarely factor it into their buying decisions unless plants are labeled or restricted.

“Often by mistake, shoppers see a plant they like at the store and assume it is fine for their garden,” says Kimberly Moore, a horticulture professor at the University of Florida. “It is not the fault of the stores. They buy and sell what people want. Plus, we often do not know that something new and fun could become invasive.”

Master Gardener Jeannie Schmidle adds that gardeners are often attracted to plants for their visual appeal, whether it’s their color, beauty or unique form, and many, including herself, feel genuine joy when surrounded by thriving, vibrant gardens. She notes that this appreciation must be balanced with awareness, as some visually appealing plants can be harmful. “It is important that we see ourselves not just as gardeners, but as environmental stewards. As consumers, we hold significant power through the choices we make. When we select non-invasive and native or Florida-friendly plants, we can help protect biodiversity, support pollinators and wildlife, and create healthier, more sustainable landscapes.”

There are several non-native plant species

Moore and Schmidle suggest not planting in your Northeast Florida landscape. Here are their top five, and the reasons they can be harmful to Florida’s native ecosystems.

Lantanas are invasive and toxic and they can also displace native plants. Lantana leaves and berries are toxic for many animals, and leaves are highly flammable, which can contribute to the spread of wildfire in invaded areas.

Pothos , also known as Devil’s Ivy (pictured below), is widely sold as a houseplant but can escape when dumped or moved outdoors. It contains elements that are toxic to pets and humans. In South Florida, it climbs trees, smothers native vegetation and forms dense vines that block light and stress or kill host trees. It is listed as a Category II invasive in Florida.

A patch of Water Hyacinth can be beautiful to see. They do display a lush carpet of foliage boasting lavender flowers. However, they can block out critical sunlight that feeds biologically important aquatic grasses.

Madagascar Periwinkle Vinca or Catharanthus roseus are delicately colorful plants. However, they frequently escape cultivation via seeds, especially in disturbed sites. It can persist and spread in natural areas, roadsides and urban interfaces. Known to compete with native ground covers, they reduce plant diversity. Alkaloids make it toxic if ingested by pets or humans.

Lastly, Wandering Dude is an easy beginner plant that is highly aggressive, and if not properly contained, spreads rapidly and potentially outcompetes native plants. It is also highly toxic to pets if ingested. u

Life of Luxury

These days, it takes more than nice landscaping and a golf course to stand out in Northeast Florida’s planned community market. Today, new home buyers need to be lured and wooed with resort-like amenities. It’s this philosophy that comes to life at the new community amenity center at The Landings at Saint Johns, an eight-acre complex that features a clubhouse, pool, fitness center, sports courts, RV and boat storage. Plus, residents can also enjoy the neighborhood’s 50 acres of preservation area, parks with zip lines, event lawn with stage, and fenced dog runs. “The community amenities offer plenty of places to play, relax, enjoy nature and create new memories in beautiful Northwest St. Johns County,” says Justin Cook, president of PulteGroup’s Northeast Florida division. The amenity center caters to residents of Greenbriar Landing (homes starting in the mid-$400s) and Del Webb Saint Johns, a 55-plus community.

Watch Your Step

A SIMPLE GARDEN PATH CAN ADD TEXTURE, STYLE AND WHIMSY TO YOUR YARD.

BY CALUM MADDOCK

Agarden path is more than just a walkway from one side of your yard to another—it is an integral design element that draws the eyes, defines the spaces, and adds character to your property. Whether you are picturing a grand walkway leading to a hidden retreat or a winding trail through a vibrant flower patch, a thoughtful path design can elevate your garden from beautiful to truly enchanting. Highlighted here are a few outdoor pathway ideas to help you elevate your Northeast Florida garden’s appearance and functionality.

Rustic Natural Path

A rustic, natural path will blend seamlessly into your landscape and provide a feeling

of calmness. You can achieve this with materials such as gravel, which offers excellent drainage and a satisfying crunch underfoot. Be sure to prepare the base with a weed barrier, and then add your chosen gravel. Create a subtle edging to contain the gravel.

Alternatively, you could create a whimsical stepping stone path using natural stone slabs, pre-cast concrete, or even large slices of wood. Lay them on a sand bed and allow the grass or ground cover to grow between them for a soft, integrated appearance. For a highly permeable, earthy surface, choose decomposed granite. This compacts firmly and can be installed over a permeable weed fabric. Another idea is an inexpensive

and soft woodland path. Lay a thick layer of wood chip mulch or bark. This type of path will need regular replenishment.

Timeless Traditional Path

You can add a sense of timeless elegance and history to your garden path. For ensuring beauty and robustness, choose natural stone paths using flagstone for a rustic but classic feel. Alternatively, you could choose cut slate for a more refined appearance. Set them on a compacted gravel and sand base or even mortar for a very formal finish.

Alternatively, you can create an enduring brick path laid in a classic pattern such as herringbone or basketweave. Make sure this

is on a stable sub-base and sand or mortar bed, and sweep polymeric sand into the joints for more stability.

For a more classic feel, try concrete pavers. These are available in a variety of styles that mimic natural stone or brick. Install these on a compacted gravel and sand base and then compact them and fill joints with polymeric sand for a neat, durable finish.

Modern Minimalist Path

Another great idea is to create a sophisticated and striking pathway with clean lines, geometric shapes, and a contemporary aesthetic. A poured concrete path will allow for ultimate customization. After preparing a solid sub-base and formwork, pour and smooth the concrete and perhaps add a color or stamped texture to mimic large slabs.

For a crisp, expansive look, consider using large-format pavers and lay them with minimal gaps on a well-prepared, stable base to create a seamless geometric pattern. To introduce a bit of warmth to your modern minimalist design, consider adding some wooden stepping slabs or laying some decking planks. For stepping slabs, place durable wood pieces onto a gravel or sand bed. Al-

ternatively, construct a simple sub-frame for decking planks, ensuring they are securely fastened for a clean, linear pathway.

Whimsical Path

Inject unique charm and personality into your garden with paths that provide some whimsy. Consider a mosaic path by embedding broken ceramic tiles, colorful glass, or pebbles into a concrete base to create intricate patterns. For a truly enchanting effect, create a glow-in-the-dark path by incorporating phosphorescent pebbles or aggregates into concrete, gravel, or resin-bound surfaces, offering a magical luminescence after sunset.

You could also embrace a storybook feel with a living path where low-growing, resilient ground covers like creeping thyme, chamomile, or moss are encouraged to grow between large, irregularly placed stepping stones. This creates a soft, fragrant walkway that changes with the seasons.

Sustainable Water-Wise Path

If you want to create a more sustainable outdoor setting, choose a path that supports water conversion and a healthy garden ecosystem by allowing rainwater to soak into the ground. A rain garden path can be designed

by creating a slightly depressed path area lined with permeable materials like gravel or permeable pavers, allowing it to collect and slowly absorb runoff from surrounding areas. This will help to nourish nearby plants and reduce stormwater.

Make use of grass paver paths where a grid system is laid and filled with soil, allowing grass to grow through, providing a stable surface that supports light foot traffic or occasional vehicle use while maintaining a green space and excellent drainage. Embrace the simplicity of a mulched stepping path by laying large, irregularly shaped pavers or natural stones with wide gaps in between, then filling these gaps with thick layers of organic mulch such as wood chips or pine needles. These decompose slowly, enriching the soil and allowing water to penetrate easily.

As you can see, your garden path can be much more than just a way to get around. It is a powerful tool for shaping the very essence of your outdoor space. From the peaceful crunch of a rustic gravel path to the bold statement of modern large format pavers, or the playful surprise of a whimsical mosaic, each design choice offers you a unique opportunity to enhance both the beauty and functionality of your yard and garden. u

Think Pink

Ballet Pink brings a softer, more refined take on the feminine shade into focus. Moving away from high-gloss tones, today’s pink leans into a muted, powdery palette that feels calm yet romantic. Across interiors, fashion and lifestyle, Ballet Pink pairs effortlessly with warm neutrals and tactile finishes like linen, adding softness and subtle color without overwhelming a space.

1. Origin Blush Smooth wall tiles from Winchester are a collection of brick tiles in muted hues, perfect for creating a contemporary rustic look. Choose a smooth finish for a subtle texture or opt for a rustic finish which has a more unique appeal.

2. Inspired by the Lewis Carrol’s Alice in Wonderland, the Booboo swing is here to upgrade your child’s bedroom design. Created by Circu with a reinforced stainless-steel frame, and with synthetic

leather and velvet upholstery, the suspended version of this delicate and luxurious sofa makes it easy to add to any décor or theme.

3. Introduce a soft touch of nature to your home with a light dusty pink linen lampshade by Wild Linens, $54. Handmade to order from sustainably sourced European linen flax

4. When your favorite pieces are too beautiful to be hidden away, The Mixer by Mustard Made, $503, is ready to put them on display. The piece makes the perfect drinks cabinet, kitchen buffet or sideboard, with fluted glass to leave a little to the imagination.

5. Annie Sloan Bedroom Piranesi Pink and Pointe Silk wall paint can add a playful elegance to any space, particularly bedrooms, playrooms and casual family rooms. u

Global Goodness

The World Cup runneth over across North America, with thousands of fans from around the globe gathering in cities ranging from Toronto to Mexico City to Miami. So, as the soccer tournament marches toward the final game on July 19, embrace the international flavor of the event with some international flavors to try at home.

For example, the Mediterranean nation of Croatia combines Western European flavors from its western neighbors like Italy with Eastern European tastes from the Balkan states. Sporki Makaruli— literally dirty macaroni—makes for a tasty snack or main. It is pasta mixed with red wine infused beef ragout which can be eaten on a plate or baked into a finger-food muffin. There’s also cevapi bites, a garlicky skinless sausage of seasoned mince. Or, for the vegetarians, sirnica triangles, which are flaky pastry filled with soft cheese and herbs, inspired by the traditional Croatian burek.

Once you’ve eaten the Panamanian specialty Patacone, you won’t be able to stop. The perfect match-day snack, these are plantain

slices fried until soft, squished to splurge into a small pancake then flipped and fried again until crisp. As for the main event, one can’t go wrong Ropa Vieja, shredded beef simmered with tomato, bell peppers and coriander. You can serve this with rice or stuff it in a wrap for easy eating.

Ghana’s food is rich in spices and color. It takes from the traditions of many African nations but puts on its own twist, and with so many African players playing in leagues around the world, these are flavors familiar to many. Jollof Rice is a top dish, a simple one-pot tomato, chicken and rice dish, richly flavored with garlic, paprika and a bit of chili powder to give it an extra kick.

Discover more the flavors of the World Cup with World Football Food by Will Gray ($26), featuring 288 recipes from all 48 nations competing in this year’s tourney. Available on Amazon for Kindle download or next day delivery on Prime. Gooooooal! u

MARKET WATCH

As spring warmed into summer, the region’s housing market continued to normalize, as steady buyer activity and growing inventory helped create a more balanced landscape for both buyers and sellers. “April’s numbers continue to reflect a market that is stabilizing and becoming more balanced across Northeast Florida. Buyers are seeing more options and greater flexibility, while sellers are still benefiting from steady activity,” says Northeast Florida Association of Realtors (NEFAR) president Kim Knapp. “As inventory grows and affordability continues to influence decisions, we are seeing a healthier pace emerge across the region.”

According to NEFAR, in April, the median sales price for single-family homes in Northeast Florida’s six-county region fell 1.3% to $390,000. Closed sales for single-family homes totaled 1,845 transactions, a 3.4% decrease from the previous month. Meanwhile, pending sales were at 1,356, falling 31.7%.

In Duval County, the median price of single family homes was $332,500, with properties spending a median of 33 days on the market, a 7.1% decrease from the month prior. There were 910 closed sales, which was a decrease of 7.2%, and 691 pending sales. New listings rose 3.2% to 1,370, and there was an active inventory of 3,395 homes—a 3.7-month supply.

TAKE ADive

Paddling through some of Northeast Florida classic watering holes, dive bars that have stood the test of time. Care to take the dip, too?

ST. NICK’S LOUNGE

This venerable bar has been a fixture in the neighborhood for more than 50 years, much like its cross-street neighbor Curry Thomas Hardware. During the 1970s, St. Nick’s was a favorite haunt among local politicians and members of the media who covered the goings-on at City Hall. The interior has changed little over the years, the moody red lighting and red velvet pool tables, murals of Elvis and Marilyn providing legitimate dive atmosphere. A horseshoe-shaped bar stocks an abundance of spirits, wine and beer. Rumor has it Faith Hill recorded a music video here back in the 1990s. Opens at 11 AM during the week, 10 AM on weekends. 3116 Atlantic Blvd., St. Nicholas

tThere are times when a cocktail or cold beer is enhanced by one’s surroundings. You know, a view of a beautiful beach or a dramatic skyline, some place everyone wants to share on social media. There are other times when the setting for an enjoyable adult beverage or two needn’t be Insta-worthy, but simply a laid back lounge without pretension—the kind of place favored in Jimmy Buffet and Kenny Chesney tunes. Northeast Florida is literally swimming with dive bars of all shapes and size. Here we visit ten local landmarks. Some do offer pretty views alongside draught beers. All of them have plenty of stories to share.

“A dive bar is typically a small, unglamorous, eclectic, old-style drinking establishment with inexpensive drinks. it may feature dim lighting, shabby or dated decor, neon beer signs, packaged beer sales, cash-only service, and local clientele.” Yep, that about sums it up.

LOCALS BAR AND PACKAGE

Like any good dive bar worth a visit, Locals features all the ambiance requirements—dimly lit high-tops, pool table, TVs over the bar, Miller High Life in cans, Jagermeister liqueur in bottles, glowing neon Budweiser signs… you get the picture. The bar’s narrow front profile along Kings Avenue is easy to miss, so keep an eye out. 1216 Kings Ave., Southbank

NO NAME BAR

Or is it the Bar With No Name? Either way, this watering hole just across the street from the Castillo de San Marcos is equal parts kitchsy and divey. An old sign proudly proclaims the “home of the worst rum and coke that one guy on Yelp ever had.” But nobody seems to mind about such online reviews. The tables outside might have some of the best views in the Oldest City—certainly for a bar. Great for people watching, the bar’s location does mean it draws an overflow crowd. Leave your mark on the fence out back. They wont’ mind. Live music Thursdays through the weekends. 16 S. Castillo Dr., St. Augustine

HAMMERHEAD BEACH BAR

Not many dive bars can count beachside views among their amenities. Hammerhead can and does so every day starting at 10 AM. Part of an Amelia Island dining and drinking collective including the Palace saloon (Florida oldest dating back to 1903) and Uncle Charlie’s Sports Bar, Hammerhead is favored for its spacious wood decks, pool tables (notice the cue chalk written on the walls), electronic dart boards, live music, and broad windows looking out to busy Fletcher Avenue and the sandy beach and Atlantic Ocean beyond. A public beach access point is directly across the road. 2045 S. Fletcher Ave., Fernandina Beach

PETE’S BAR

When it comes to “divey” drinking establishments out at the beach, all roads begin and end at this 1st Street libations landmark. Pete’s has been around since the 1930s and its spawned more stories about secret sales during Prohibition, drunken sailors during World War II and crowds in the thousands at the annual “PetesGiving” street party. The pool tables are still one quarter per game. Plus, there’s foosball and ping-pong. You know you’re at some place special when the establishment has its own gift shop hawking all sort of Pete’s merch. Opens at noon every day of the year. 117 1st St., Neptune Beach

THE JUG SALOON

“I was cutting a rug, Down at place called The Jug…” So opens the 1973 song, “Gimme Three Steps,” by Lynyrd Skynyrd. Legend has it that this is the Westside watering hole about which Ronnie Van Zant was singing. Not everyone agrees with the story, but walking inside it isn’t hard to imagine the whole Van Zant clan drinking beers and playing eight-ball on the red-felted pool table here back in the day. Chances are good there will be a Harley or two parked out front. Don’t forget to bring some cash for drinks. If you don’t, there is an ATM inside. 5301 Lenox Ave., Westside

MANGO’S BEACH BAR

Be prepared to smile. That bright light you see just might be a Polaroid camera flash. A neighborhood landmark for six decades, Mango’s keeps on chugging along on the corner of First Street and 5th Avenue (a short Frisbee toss away from the Jax Beach Pier) with a mix of darts, pool tables, foosball, music, TVs, video games and an outside deck. Serving everything from White Claws in cans and Natural Lights in bottles to Titos vodkas and potent slushy creations. Love the fresh-made seasoned popcorn. They might even be serving free pizzas. Karaoke every Wednesday and Sunday night. Opens daily at 11 AM. 602 1st St. N., Jacksonville Beach

HARBOR TAVERN

With its red bricks and white shutters, the exterior here resembles that of a classic 1960s ranch house. The neon signs and location under the Jimmy Buffet Memorial Highway overpass leading to and from Mayport gives it away as a bar. Wood-top bar? Yes. Pool tables? Yep, two. TVs and old ship’s bell over the ice chests? Of course. Port hole art on the wall? Would you really be in Mayport without that… c’mon on. Cash is king here. Doors open daily at 11 AM. 160 Mayport Rd., Atlantic Beach

CRUZN’ EDDIES

Snug up against Highway 17 and a bridge crossing the Nassau River at the Duval County line just south of Yulee, Cruzn’ Eddies is a magnet for riders of two-wheeled vehicles. Four wheels, too. The covered back porch overlooking a quiet tidal marsh is a nice touch. Weather permitting, take a seat at one of the picnic tables and enjoy a Landshark or two. Big Engine or The Usual Suspects are usually the house band on Sundays. Look for chicken wings, fried shrimp, and tacos served from the Porcupine Pub or Leu’s BBQ food truck parked in the lot next door. Doors open daily at noon. 850019 US 17, Yulee

GINGER’S PLACE

This Jax Beach pub has been a true family affair for nearly 50 years. Just ask Candy. She’ll tell you all about her mom, Ginger. The door, oddly placed on the building’s corner along 3rd Street, welcomes all—tourists and local alike with a classic pub atmosphere complete with electronic dart boards, high-top tables, frosty-cold glasses, and bar staff who know many customers by name. Nothing fancy, just good fun, beach-casual vibes and a shot of Fireball or two. Game of Golden Tee, anyone? Drinks start pouring at 1 PM during the week, 10 AM Saturday and Sunday. 304 3rd St. S., Jacksonville Beach u

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.

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 Shrek The Musical , June 18-August 9, and Saturday Night Fever , August 20-September 27. 12000 Beach Blvd., Southside (641-1212; alhambrajax.com). L, D, SB, $$$.

Al’s Pizza

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

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

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

Blue Bamboo

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

Blue Orchid

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

Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q

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

Caffé Andiamo

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

Casa Reina

Taqueria & Tequila

Located just steps from the historic Bridge of Lions in the heart of Downtown St. Augustine, the new upscale Mexican/Florida Coastal eaterie speciallizes in street tacos and enchiladas, as well as short rib, chiles rellenos

and tequila lime grouper. Nearly 100 tequilas on offer. 1 Anderson Cir., St. Augustine (295-3847; casareinastaug.com). L, D, $$.

ChopHouse Thirteen

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

City Grille & Raw Bar

Welcome arrival to the San Marco area dining scene featuring an upscale setting and a menu laden with seafood, steak and seasonal specialties, as well as an extensive wine list with labels from around the globe. 1314 Prudential Dr., Southbank (398-8989, citygrillerawbar.com). L, D, $$

Coastal Wine & Tapas

Coastal Wine & Tapas has quickly become a standout in Nocatee’s thriving dining scene, winning over locals and visitors alike with its warm, welcoming atmosphere. The space is defined by its signature grapevine chandelier, cozy booths, handcrafted high tops, and a stunning granite bar top that sets the stage for memorable evenings. Guests can indulge in chef-curated small plates such as Housemade Meatballs Marinara, MarconaCrusted Goat Cheese & Fig, Ahi Tuna Tartare, Drunken Filet Sliders, and more. 300 Pine Lake Dr., Suite 101, Ponte Vedra (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 Beach (372-4507; coop303.com). L, D, SB, $$.

Cordova, A Coastal Chophouse & Bar

Situated in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, Cordova is the signature restaurant of the Casa Monica Resort and Spa. An extensive menu covers much culinary territory, with an emphasis on seafood and local ingredients. Dinner starters include items such as Florida little neck clams and Georgia peach salad. Entrées are highlighted by crabcrusted red snapper, grilled beef tenderloin, and 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/costabrava-restaurant). B, L, D, $$.

Cowford Chophouse

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

Cruisers Grill

For more than 20 years, beachgoers have looked to Cruisers Grill for their signature burger and cheese fries served with ranch dressing. Grilled chicken, country fried steak, turkey and melted Swiss—the sandwich lineup is tops. They offer all the classics, plus newer options like a house-made fried bologna sandwich. 319 23rd Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach (270-0356). L, D, $.

Culhane’s Irish Pubs & Restaurants

Straight from Limerick, Ireland, the four sisters who operate the city’s two Culhane’s pubs draw legions of regulars with classics such as Scotch Eggs and Guinness Beef Stew. Bangers N’ Mash, Corned Beef N’ Cabbage, Shepherd’s Pie, Irish Cheese-Crusted Cod—the flavors of the Emerald Isle live here. Full bar. 967 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic

Beach (249-9595); 9720 Deer Lake Ct., Southside (619-3177), culhanesirishpub.com. L, D, SB, $$

David's

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

Eleven South Bistro

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

The Fish Company

With a crowded raw bar and a wide variety of locally caught seafood, The Fish Co. offers a little something for everyone Chef Bill Pinner’s menu combines signature items like fried Mayport shrimp with favorite small plate dishes, changing weekly. The restaurant offers several specials throughout the week. 725-12 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (2460123; thefish cojax.com). L, D. $$$.

Flying Iguana Taqueria & Tequila Bar

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

Continued on page 115

Perfect Match

ARE SHRIMP AND GRITS THE ULTIMATE SOUTHERN COMFORT FOOD?

BY JEFFREY SPEAR

There's an unmistakable Southern heritage that permeates Jacksonville's dining scene. One of the more iconic dishes, shrimp & grits, was originally a breakfast staple in the Lowcountry regions of South Carolina and Georgia. Considered by many to be the ultimate Southern comfort food, it's prepared differently from one chef to the next. Following are a few of the local eateries we visited that serve some of the best around.

Recognized as a casual, come-as-youare destination, Jax Beach Brunch Haus has become one of the beach communi -

ty's most popular daytime dining spots. Serving breakfast, brunch and lunch, their Shrimp + Eggs + Grits ($16), made with two eggs, white cheddar stone ground grits, grilled or blackened shrimp, Texas smoked bacon crumbles and Parmesan cheese, is one of their most noteworthy options. Don't forget their Sunday Bloody Brunch Day ($9.50), served mild or with a little extra kick. While dining, ask for Dan, the owner. He’s a classically trained opera singer happy to brighten your day with a song.

For a Creole-inspired version of shrimp & grits, head over to Dorothy's Downtown ,

a casual, one-of-a-kind, dining destination in Jacksonville's urban core. With recipes learned back home in Baton Rouge, Chef Marvin Barnes delights guests with homestyle BBQ Shrimp & Grits ($25), made with slow cooked, smoked gouda, grits and a spiced Cajun gravy. Of course, his Fried Chicken & Gumbo ($28) is another Southern classic not to be missed. While cocktails could easily accompany these dishes, wine is recommended. If you're not sure which to choose, your server can suggest the perfect pairing.

While you're in town, head over to Gemma

Fish + Oyster in the heart of San Marco. Known as an upbeat seafood restaurant with a cool urban vibe, chef and owner Mike Cooney takes a somewhat different approach to this Southern classic. His version, Shrimp & Grits Cake ($26), starts with a crispy-fried patty of heirloom grits that's topped with Andouille sausage, brown butter roasted mushrooms, poblano cream, spinach and goat cheese. Paired with a refreshing glass of Albariño and you're all set.

Another worthwhile option is New Berlin Fish House. Located on the North side of town, this is a modestly sized fish shack whose motto is "Eat local."

Serving locally sourced seafood (sometimes owner caught), Somthin' N' Grits (Shrimp or Grouper, $25, or with lobster, market price) is one of the highlights on the menu. Served with applewood smoked bacon and Azar Andouille sausage over creamy pimento cheese grits, you're in for a treat. While white wine is an excellent idea for pairing, you may want to heighten your experience with a Watermelon Margarita ($13) or the Fish House Sangria ($11).

Heading further North to the bucolic shores of Kingsley Creek on the edge of Amelia Island, Down Under is everything you'd expect from an enduring Floridian fish camp. Their Shrimp and Grits ($24), loaded with Fernandina shrimp, Azar's

Andouille sausage and cherry tomatoes in a sherry cream reduction, is one of their more popular dishes. Also recommended is their Spicy Thai Shrimp ($22). Locally brewed Mocama Cosmico IPA is the perfect companion, especially out on the tiki deck where dolphins, manatees and sea otters may swing by to keep you company. The waterfront experience is complete with a dock for those who prefer to arrive by boat.

To Jacksonville's South in St. Augustine's historic arts district on Aviles Street (the oldest cobblestone laneway in America), Forgotten Tonic is celebrated for its innovative craft cocktails, American comfort food with a modern twist, and authentic Southern hospitality. With visible hints of a colorful past, its bar and creatively conceived menu make this place appealing in all the right ways. With blackened shrimp over creamy cheese grits with A ndouille étouffée, green onion, and jalapeño, their Shrimp & Grits Étouffée ($28) packs plenty of flavor. For those who prefer a cocktail, the Drunken Sailor ($19), a bold and briny concoction, comes highly recommended.

Whether you indulge in shrimp & grits or some of the other delights on their menus, all of the before mentioned establishments are appealing destinations for your next culinary adventure. u

Bumper Crop

Could okra be Florida’s next great vegetable for home gardeners and commercial planters? According to some researchers, it’s already on it’s way to being just that. As a hardy, easy-to-grow crop requiring minimal care, okra can be grown successfully in home gardens, both in the ground or in containers and alongside other vegetables and ornamental plants, says University of Florida research scientist Dakshina Seal. “Okra is valued as a vegetable and for its health benefits. It helps manage blood sugar levels, supports heart health, aid digestion and contributes to brain and bone health. Due to growing demand, okra production in the U.S. continues to increase.”

“From a nutritional standpoint, okra offers fiber, vitamins and antioxidants that support digestion, heart health and overall wellness,” adds Monalisa Seaton, a graduate assistant researcher in Seal’s lab at the UF Tropical Research and Education Center. “These qualities are increasingly important as consumers look for foods that do more than simply satisfy hunger.” u

DREAM STREET: 5 Points, Riverside

CINNAMON ROLLS, LATTE, TITO’S VODKA, BUTTER CHICKEN, LAMB CURRY… YES, PLEASE

BREW FIVE POINTS

It’s the little coffee shop that could. But so much more—equal parts cafe and bakery with breakfast tacos (2 for $10), dulce de leche cake, focaccia breads, sprinkle cookies and a pastry case even a Frenchman would love. The sweet and savory kolaches ($6) are yeasty perfection. Oh, and drip coffee, cold brews ($5), cappuccino, espresso and hot matcha lattes, too. Watch your step crossing Park Street. Cars are supposed to stop for pedestrians . They don’t always do so. Open daily 7:30 AM to 4 PM. 1024 Park St., 904-374-5789

MARGARET STREET

POSTSTREET

BIRDIES

LOMAXSTREET

This 5 Points classic has everything one could want in a neighborhood watering hole . Pool tables, funky decor (see shark head mounted on wall), subdued lighting, space to dance, tables on the front patio and a cocktail list packed with potent imagination. “Sex on the River,” “Sour Patch Grownup,” and “Velvet Fog,” poured from a bar stocked with more than 300 spirits. How about a “Porn Star Martini” ($14) with vanilla-infused Grey Goose, passion fruit, lime and champagne? Opens at 4 PM weekdays, 12:30 PM Saturday and Sunday. 1044 Park St., 904-329-4291

CURRY GUYS

Sure, it’s not what many think of as traditional Indian cuisine, but the masala fries ($5) are a must-try. More classic flavors shine in dishes like the crispy potato and pea samosas ($6) and the chicken tandoori with basmati rice and mint chutney ($15). Order at the counter of the one-room fast-casual joint , open since December. Expect bold flavors, braised lamb, paneer cheese, lots of turmeric and ginger. The garlic naan is a warm slice of heaven. Lunch and dinner daily till 9 PM. 813 Lomax St., 904-374-8956 u

’‘In a world of uniformity, Sorekara proudly forges its own path. This Baldwin Park restaurant is unlike anywhere else you've been, offering a surprising and delightful culinary journey that revels in turning expectations on their head.’’ So says the acclaimed Michelin Guide, awarding the Orlando-area restaurant Two Stars for 2026, one of only two dining establishments in Florida to receive the coveted honor. Chefs around the globe go to extreme culinary limits to earn recognition in the annual Michelin Guide, understanding that receiving one, two or three stars brings professional praise and admiration and, in turn, legions of diners. At Sorekara, one doesn’t make a reservation. No, instead, one requests a reservation and they will let you know if and when a table is available. Specializing in reimagined Japanese cuisine, the chef’s tasting menu starts at $345 per person. u

Green Acres

This spring’s Tour de Farm was a sell-out success, seeing some 500 attendees visit family operated agricultural enterprises in St. Augustine and Elkton. On April 12, attendees were invited to tour several farm properties, meet and talk with the local farming families, sample seasonal recipes prepared by food vendors, and shop for fresh produce and merchandise. In fact, 200 pounds of potatoes were prepared and served to visitors, as were 65 wood-fired pizzas baked onsite. Also, participants were able to purchase fresh veggies direct from area farms, including carrots from County Line Produce, potatoes from Wilson Family Farms, and strawberries from Wesley Wells Farm, as well as datil pepper products by vendor favorite, Minorcan Mike. Hosted by Slow Food First Coast, the event was designed to emphasize the importance of buying local by highlighting ingredients sourced directly from regional growers. u

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 French-baked scallops, blackened redfish and crawfish étouffée. 46 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine (824-7765; hookedonharrys.com). L, D, $$.

JJ’s Liberty Bistro

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

Le Petit Paris Café

A little slice of France in the River City, the 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 locations including 9965 San Jose Blvd., Suite 46, San Jose (512-7777, lepetitparis jax.com). B, L, $.

Matthew’s Restaurant

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

Restaurant Medure

This restaurant features 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 longtime 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.

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

110 1st St., Neptune Beach (2495573;

Midtown Table

D, $$$.

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 (2640636); 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

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 openface 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 (6942770, 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 customized to one’s liking for about $15. Order a side of the Old Bay fries, too. 1527 3rd St. N., Jacksonville Beach (241-7188, phillys-finest.com). L, D, $$.

Continued on page 121

DINNER DATES

Organizers called it a “Low Country boil with a spark!” And the evening certainly delivered some heat, music and tasty eats. On May 1, the Jacksonville History Center hosted the inaugural Great Fire Gathering, a fundraiser that marked the 125th anniversary of the Great Fire of Jacksonville. While celebrating a huge disaster might seem odd, the fact is that the historic blaze that destroyed much of the city was actually a catalyst for the creation of a new city along the St. Johns River. More than $130,000 was raised to support the Historical Society. u

The Florida Theatre hosted An Evening in the Tropics, the historic venue’s annual gala fundraiser, the evening of May 16, raising over $200,000 in the process. A live auction featured items such as a round of golf for four at TPC Sawgrass with PGA Tour pro Len Mattiace and a dinner and concert experience with Pablo Cruise. Cocktails and music began at 6 PM, followed by a seated dinner, the auction and a late-night dance party with music by Caribe Groove. u

SUPPER TIME

It was another sold-out evening celebrating some of the city’s top chefs and restaurants as Jacksonville Magazine hosted its latest Secret Supper on June 2 at Saleya Riviera Cafe in San Marco Square. Host and chef Scott Alters—who recently earned acclaim in the 2026 Michelin Guide for his other restaurant, Rue Saint Marc—treated the nearly 60 guests to a three-course meal themed “Dinner on the Riviera.” An amuse of Provencal melon soup opened the menu, followed by an appetizer of chilled Mayport shrimp, tomato and Georgia peach salad with basil pistou. The main course was bouillabaisse swimming with red snapper, grouper, mussels and saffron potatoes. A finale of lemon tart and bruléed meringue brought the evening to a delicious close. Look for more Jacksonville Magazine Secret Suppers at top local restaurants in the coming months. u

BEER OF THE MONTH

Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) marks its 60th anniversary this year, an occasion that certainly deserves a hearty “well done” and “cheers.” As part of the celebratory spirit, First Love Brewing in Fernandina Beach partnered with the college to create a limited edition beer. Manta Rays Ale is a Belgian blonde featuring hints of blood orange. The brewery is owned by FSCJ alum Kevin O’Brien and his wife, Jessie. “As we celebrate our 60th anniversary, we wanted to highlight the incredible things our alumni are doing in the community,” says College President John Avendano. “Partnering with Kevin and First Love Brewing allows us to toast to our history with a product that was literally born from the success of one of our graduates.” Symbolic of FSCJ’s 60th year, the beer’s alcoholic content (ABV) is 6 percent. u

Florida-based non-alcoholic cocktail and spirits brand Little Saints is expanding its distribution across the Sunshine State. While already available for purchase in select Sprouts and Whole Foods stores, in June the beverage hit the shelves in more than 100 ABC Fine Wine & Spirits locations across Florida. The non-alcoholic canned cocktails and spirits are designed to mimic the buzz of alcohol using "nature’s dopamine"—a blend of adaptogenic mushrooms (reishi and lion's mane) and botanical terpenes. Their drinks contain zero sugar, are sweetened with monk fruit, and have five calories per serving. “We have served over 25,000 customers in Florida via little-spirits.com," says founder and CEO Megan Klein. “But their most frequently asked question is, where can I find this in stores?” ABC will carry the brand’s top three canned cocktails—Classic Margarita, Old Fashioned and Mojito, all in four-packs. u

Coffee and donuts. A more satisfying morning combo may not exist. And the River City is blessed with an abundance of establishments specializing in this tasty duo, which is why the Visit Jax created the Jax Coffee & Donuts Trail. This deliciously participatory venture asks hungry travelers and locals to create an account via the Visit Jax app and drop in at some 40 local donut and coffee shops—and earn swag for doing so. After purchasing your favorite pastry and/or latte, ask the attending barista for the shop’s Jax Coffee & Donuts Trail check-in code, which one will then enter on the app. Visit eight locations and receive a branded stainless steel mug or go all in and visit 20 to earn a leather coffee cuff and a cute enamel pin. 1928 Cuban Bistro, Bold Bean Coffee Roasters, Brew Five Points and 1748 Bakehouse are among the participating shops. u

Tropical Mahimahi

BY CHEF DAVID MESSENGER, CHEF DE CUISINE AT ATLANTIC GRILLE

The Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa in Palm Coast is an oceanside gem, a vacation retreat that indulges guests with amenities such as a multi-level pool complex with waterslides and a lazy river, tennis and pickleball courts, a beachfront golf course, massages in the spa and more. Oh, and there are nine distinctive options for food and drinks. At the signature Atlantic Grille, diners savor house favorites including roasted oysters, wild caught swordfish and grilled ribeye steak with charred Vidalia onion and twice baked potato. Here, chef Messenger prepares an ideal summertime meal featuring fresh-caught fish and the flavors of pineapple, cilantro and lime. Serves four.

INGREDIENTS

2 Tbsp. canola oil

4 six-ounce pieces of mahimahi

2 Tbsp. Cajun seasoning

2 cups cooked rice

1 cup pineapple pico de gallo

1 lb. of seasonal vegetable of choice

Pineapple Pico

¼ pineapple, cleaned and diced

3 Roma tomatoes, diced small

½ jalapeno, diced small.

Remove seeds to adjust heat

1 Tbsp chopped cilantro

¼ red onion, diced small

1 Tbsp fresh lime juice

Salt and pepper to taste

METHOD

1. Mix all ingredients in small bowl, cover and refrigerate until needed

Jasmine Rice

1 cup rinsed jasmine rice

2 cups water

1 Tbsp. kosher salt

METHOD

1. Place water, rice and salt in a two quart pan and bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer covered approximately 15 minutes or until water is absorbed and rice is tender

2. Hold covered until needed

3. Cook vegetables until desired tenderness, hold until plating

PREPARING THE MAHI

1. Pre heat large non-stick sauté pan to medium heat

2. Season mahi with Cajun seasoning

3. Place fish filets in hot sauté pan and cook aproximately 5 minutes on one side

4. Turn fish and lower heat continue to cook another 4 to 5 min or until internal temperature is 135ºF.

5. Remove from pan

6. For plating, place about 4 ounces of cooked rice in center of plate

7. Spoon seasonal vegetables next to rice

8. Place mahi filet on top of rice

9. Top filet with 2 Tbsp. pico de gallo and enjoy u

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 (904-273-7272); 104 Ashourian Ave., St. Augustine (904-679-3657, 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 halfpound bacon and cheddar burger topped off with a fried egg. 363 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (2417637; poestavern.com). L,D, $.

River & Post

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

RP’s Fine Food & Drink

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

Rue Saint-Marc

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

Safe Harbor Seafood

Fresh, locally caught seafood is the calling card for Safe Harbor. That’s not surprising, as customers can practically see the shrimp boats of Mayport from the restaurant’s front door. It’s easy to see why hungry diners have been drifting here for years. Sure, the menu is laden with clams, oysters, crab cakes and other seafood standards, but sometimes a basket of fried shrimp,

slaw, fries and hush puppies is a little slice of heaven. 4378 Ocean St., Mayport (246 4911, safeharbor-seafood.com). L, D, $$.

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., 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 (904241-6996, 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, $.

Taqueria Cinco

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

Taverna

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

Taverna Oceana

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

Town Hall

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

Vernon’s First Coast Kitchen & Bar

Located at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, this restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients and seafood, and provides an exceptional wine list. Sunday brunch features farm-to-table classics like chicken and waffles and biscuits with gravy. 1000 PGA Tour Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach (285-7777). B, D, $$$.

Whitey’s Fish Camp

Not many restaurants double as an RV park. That hospitality, combined with homespun ultra casual décor produces a Southern atmosphere at Whitey’s Fish Camp that is, above all, authentic. The seafood is fresh and specialities include beer-battered fried grouper, North-of-the-border steamed snow crab legs, a shrimp boil, and all-youcan-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

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

Only in Florida

STRANGE BUT TRUE STORIES FROM ACROSS THE SUNSHINE STATE

It was billed as the world’s first “slotharium,” a Central Florida attraction slated to open this year. Unfortunately, during a four-month period, more than 50 sloths died while under the care of Sloth World Orlando, even before the attraction officially opened its doors. According to reports from the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, the animals were housed in a warehouse that allegedly did not have water or electricity. The slow-moving mammals cannot regulate their own body temperature and, if their temperatures drop too low, the bacteria they rely on to digest food can die, eventually leading to the death of the host animal. Owners of the now-defunct and bankrupt Sloth World said most of the animals died due to viral infection. Thirteen sloths were rescued and taken to the Central Florida Zoo for care; one, named Mr. Ginger, died in May.

In our previous edition, we shared the story of Nicolette Keough, 31, who was arrested earlier in the year for allegedly urinating on furniture in a pair of Pensacola Airbnbs, acts she would record and upload to an adult website. Apparently, there were more than two such instances. In May, she was arrested again and charged with felony property damage at another rental property. According to WEAR-TV, the estimated total damage for this arrest was more than $17,000, including $4,000 for a king-size mattress, $5,195 for a leather sofa, and $4,800 for a sleeper sofa. "It goes to show that people will stoop to new lows these days to make money,” said police officer Mike Wood. “And that's a problem.” True enough, Mike. True enough.

In late May, Rafael Lopez, 62, of St. Augustine was reportedly clocked driving 105 miles per hour on I-95 South near Flagler Beach. As a result, he was arrested for breaking the state’s “super speeder” law. Flagler County Sheriff’s Officer body camera video show Lopez explaining to the officer that he was driving so fast because his leg was locked and he was in pain. “My leg is killing me,” he’s heard saying, adding he was rushing to get to a rest area, instead of pulling over to the side of the highway. In 2022, Lopez was convicted of exceeding the posted speed limit. That time he was clocked driving 127 miles per hour. “We aren’t doctors, but with leg pain and speeds over 100 mph, we can diagnose him with a lead foot,” Flagler Sheriff Rick Staly said in a news release. “A few minutes saved by speeding isn’t worth risking your life or everyone else’s.”

Speaking of feeling the need for speed: Also in May, a 27-year-old mother of two was arrested for driving 120 miles per hour on I-10 west of Jacksonville. "Do you know how fast you were going?" an officer is heard asking in body camera footage. "Fast," she replied. A concise but certainly understated response. Not only was she speeding, but officers detected the scents of alcohol and marijuana inside the vehicle. And, upon further inspection, multiple empty alcohol bottles and a marijuana joint was found in the car. As was her three-year-old child in the backseat. Among her reasons for being in a such a rush was that she needed to get back to her ten-year-old, whom she had left alone at home to pick up some food. u