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St. Johns Magazine ~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-8538 1 Celebrating Local Treasures, People, Places & Events in St. Johns & Beyond St. Johns St. Johns magazine magazine April 2013 New! New! Westminster Woods Westminster Woods Senior Corner Senior Corner Pull Out Pull Out Summer Camp Page Summer Camp Page INSIDE THE INSIDE THE NOCATEE LIFESTYLE NOCATEE LIFESTYLE Why Local Watson Realtors Why Local Watson Realtors George & Jamie Ballou George & Jamie Ballou Call Nocatee Home Call Nocatee Home Spring Home & Style Issue Spring Home & Style Issue Photograph of Splash Water Park at Nocatee

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St. Johns Magazine ~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-8538 1

Celebrating Local Treasures, People, Places & Events in St. Johns & Beyond

St. JohnsSt. Johns m a g a z i n em a g a z i n e

April 2013

New!New!Westminster Woods Westminster Woods Senior CornerSenior Corner

Pull Out Pull Out Summer Camp PageSummer Camp Page

INSIDE THE INSIDE THE NOCATEE LIFESTYLENOCATEE LIFESTYLEWhy Local Watson Realtors Why Local Watson Realtors George & Jamie Ballou George & Jamie Ballou Call Nocatee HomeCall Nocatee Home

S p r i n g H o m e & S t y l e I s s u eS p r i n g H o m e & S t y l e I s s u e

Photograph of Splash Water Park at Nocatee

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St. Johns Magazine~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-85382

f i n e a r t & n a t u r e

p h o t o g r a p h y

904-962-1516www.terryandcherbrown.com

WANTED:Host Families

for SPANISH EXCHANGE STUDENTS!

Open your home to a student for a 4 week summer

homestay. Weekly field trips give students the chance

to experience America, learn English and have fun!

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www.step-to-usa.com

Publisher & Editor

Debbie Gaylord

Contributing Writers Angie Bell, , Dr. Rosanne Faull, Dr. Melinda Tolitsky,

Dr. Peter Veling

Contributing PhotographersCher Brown, Angie Bell

OFFICE CONTACT904-687-8538, [email protected] www.stjohnsmag.com

ON THE COVER:George & Jamie Ballou - Watson Realty/ Splash Water Park Nocatee

All rights reserved ©2013 St. Johns Magazine LLCPublished monthly and distributed free of charge,

in print and on the web.

The Home & Style The Home & Style IssueIssue

I N S I D EFeatured Business - George & Jamie Ballou 4

Nocatee - A Community of the Future 8

Hang’in at the Rookery 12

April Calendar 16, 17

Summer Camp & Enrichment Page 14

At Home in St. Johns County 22

DINE OUT ST. JOHNS - 23

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To Advertise: 904-687-8538 or [email protected]

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Who are the people who make living here EXTRA -ORDINARY? Find out next month!Movers & Shakers of St. Johns

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A Prudential financial professional can assess your situation. Draw up a plan.

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INVESTMENTS I INSURANCE I RETIREMENT

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St. Johns Magazine ~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-8538 3

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St. Johns Magazine~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-85384

by Debbie Gaylord

George and Jamie Ballou are living a dream life

in Nocatee, Florida where they live, work and play.

When Watson Realtors George and Jamie Bal-

lou moved to Del Webb Ponte Vedra in Nocatee in 2009

there were only 115 homes. But the Ballou’s fell in love

with the luxurious gated community known for its high

quality homes (Pulte is the builder), reasonable prices

& incredible clubhouse plans, nestled within the new

preserve community of Nocatee. Add to this Nocatee’s

close proximity to the ocean (10 minutes to Mickler

Beach) and its ideal location halfway between Jackson-

ville and St. Augustine and it was diffi cult to resist. It

also helped that their daughter's family and their grand-

children had recently moved to the area.

As both a buyer and a Realtor with 28 years

experience in the industry, George was intrigued by the

smart growth concept he saw at Nocatee where build-

ers and developers had worked together to design the

infrastructure and invest in the bones of the commu-

nity even before a single home was built. At Nocatee,

George moved into his Del Webb home and was able

to drive the immaculate road system already in place

between Palm Valley and US 1. He used the bike paths,

the Splash Water Park and enjoyed nature walks. As a

Realtor, he knew a community with this incomparable

lifestyle would see tremendous growth, as more families

became health conscious and environmentally aware,

and sought out communities where these qualities were

a priority.

Nocatee felt

fi rmly plant-

ed in the fu-

ture, ready

for growth

yet also a vi-

brant place

live a com-

pletely mod-

ern existence right now. George and Jamie found them-

selves in perfect position to help Nocatee grow.

Fast forward three years, and George and Jamie

love living the Nocatee lifestyle, enjoying the people

and the community. Th ey have helped dozens of buyers

fi nd their dream home in Nocatee. George says there is

nothing sweeter than fi nding the right home for a fam-

ily and helping them with the sale. Sometimes it means

identifying an overlooked but important option like

how the new home will sit on a lot, while at others times

it means knowing the right questions to ask builders.

His appreciation of the variety of homes, his familiarity

with all of the neighborhoods and his relationship with

Nocatee builders allows him to assist buyers on an indi-

vidual basis. “It’s as good as it gets,” he said.

On a personal level, George and Jamie are fo-

cused on family. As the parents of fi ve children, two

biological daughters and three foster sons, these gentle

mannered mid-westerners enjoy spending time with

their three grandchildren who live in St. Johns. Jamie

and George were high school sweethearts and have

been married for 38 years. Early in their marriage, Ja-

mie was a full-time mom but when the children left the

nest it seemed only natural for Jamie to join George in

real estate. Before moving to Florida George worked in

banking and investment, and owned his own success-

ful real estate company in Ohio, as well as selling real

estate in Maine & Vermont. Aft er moving to the area he

joined Watson Realty.

It is easy to see why George and Jamie Ballou are

the perfect team if you are interested in buying, selling

or renting a home in Nocatee or any of the lovely com-

munities in St. Johns and beyond.To contact George & Jamie Ballou

please call 904-687-6140 or 904-687-6675

Living the DreamMeet George & Jamie Ballou Nocatee Real Estate Specialists & Residents

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St. Johns Magazine ~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-8538 5

H

ye

al

he

th

se

w

M

th

G

Fr

R

w

to

al

fr

Th

fr

al

re

ne

w w w . G e o r g e B a l l o u . c o m

w w w . J a m i e B a l l o u . c o m

Jamie BallouREALTOR®

904.687.6675

JamieBallou@

WatsonRealtyCorp.com

We Live In Nocatee!

George L. Ballou, II CDPE, LMC

Broker Associate

REALTOR

904.687.6140

[email protected]

George & Jamie Ballou

Splash Water Park

Nocatee, FL

y

g

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St. Johns Magazine~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-85386

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St. Johns Magazine ~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-8538 7

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St. Johns Magazine~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-85388

 Turning off the Dixie Highway onto CR 210 East one enters Nocatee. With its sleek palm-

lined roadways, miles of southern pine forests, the new Town Center and its impressive neighborhoods, Nocatee is the quintessential planned community of the future. Last year 508 new homes sold here, making it the 10th fastest growing community in the United States. Th e concept for Nocatee was dreamed up by the PARC Group, well known local developers who are behind many of Northeast Florida’s premier communities includ-ing Marsh Creek Country Club and Pablo Bay along the Intracoastal. According to Managing Partner Rick Ray, Th e PARC Group had a clear, long-term vision for the 13,323 acres of land which originates from the Davis family of Winn-Dixie fame. “Th e Davis family wanted to help cre-ate a planned community they would be proud of in the future,” he said. Aft er spending ten years researching other planned communities across the country, they determined smart growth was the future of developing and seized the mo-ment with Nocatee. At the center of this plan was a respect for the native environment. By designating 2/3 of the land for preservation, they sought to preserve the beauty of the landscape and enhances the lives of the people who live and work within the community. Th ey also decided to com-bine nature with zoned areas for economic growth. Th is in-cluded a Town Center for retail space and areas designated for offi ce space so residents could do everything in their daily life without having to travel long distances. Th e early stages of development began in 2005. By 2007, the Florida real estate market began to show signs of stress, and by 2008 our national economy was hit hard by a recession that crippled the building industry. Th e PARC Group and its hand-picked, award-winning builders perse-vered. Th ey believed so strongly in the project they moved forward building Nocatee’s infrastructure without hesita-tion. “We understood and believed the recession would end and wanted to position ourselves in the market for when that time came. We gave the public confi dence when they needed it,” said Mr. Ray. Th at kind of courage paid off . Today, there are 1,500 homes in Nocatee but when the community is complete, it will have thirteen to fourteen thousand homes on its 13,000 acres. Marketing Director Kelly Ray says this will be ten to fi ft een years in the future.

Th e completed master plan is laid out clearly on a beautiful rendered map available at the welcome center. It details each community, the location of current and future schools, parks, trails, offi ce complexes and retail space. Economically, Nocatee will continue to draw new businesses to the area in the coming years. Th e Town Cen-ter was completed in 2010 and later came Splash Water Park. Th e PARC Group was able to convince key retailers such as Publix to locate in the Nocatee Town Center (It is home to the largest Publix in northeast Florida). Baptist Health has also purchased a fi ve acre parcel and plans to build a primary care facility. Nocatee resident & entreprenuer, Marcia Dan-

zeisen, along with her partner, Michael Simpson, leased the

fi nal two retail spaces in Nocatee Town Center last Septem-

ber. Yobe is open now and Dick’s Wings and Grill is set to

open in late April. “Nocatee in particular needed a gather-

ing place and the combination of these two family-friendly

establishments complement the healthy, active lifestyle No-

catee families enjoy. We are overwhelmed by the outpour-

ing of support Nocatee and surrounding communities have

shown since we opened Yobe on March 2,” said Yobe and

Dick’s Wings and Grill owner Marcia Danzeisen. A key feature of the Nocatee lifestyle is green liv-ing. Th e PARC Group is well known for being environ-mentally concious and in 2008 they won the Best Green Community Award for Nocatee.

NOCATEENOCATEE A Smart Growth Community of the FutureA Smart Growth Community of the Future

Th e Entrance

to the Nocatee

Preserve Trail be-

hind Ponte Vedra

High School

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St. Johns Magazine ~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-8538 9

When building the infrastructure the PARC Group included an electric vehicle pass within a series of winding trails known as Th e Greenway, a preserva-tion area of more than 5,000 acres of environmentally sensitive land. Residents today enjoy use of the preserved lands, connecting 330 acres of parks, common areas, the Nocatee Splash Water Park and Nocatee Town Cen-ter without having to use their vehicles. It is one reason why people decide to buy in Nocatee, as residents Lorena Granja and Leonor Mendez said, “We fell in love with it. It is so peaceful, quiet and great for family living”.

Th e Greenway includes trail map kiosks and en-vironmental education signs. According to the St. Johns County website, “Th e interconnecting Greenway Trail System, which is easily within reach of all of the commu-nity’s neighborhoods, includes miles of multiuse 16-foot-wide pathways and 1,200 feet of bridges that wander throughout wetlands. Designed for tranquil recreational pursuits”. Nocatee residents enjoy hiking trails, horseback riding, mountain bike riding, bird watching, a state-of-the art fi tness center and the huge Splash Water Park with its swimming pools, 50 foot tall water slide, and a lazy river. Th ey recently even added a zip line directly over the swimming pool complex. Nocatee is located within the St. Johns County Public School system, the number one rated school dis-trict in Florida. Nocatee developers reserved space for nine schools. Ponte Vedra High School, located near Davis Park opened in 2008. Funding for development of the fi rst elementary school inside Nocatee was recently approved by the St. Johns County school district and is slated to be completed by summer 2014. It seems Th e PARC Group has not forgotten any detail when it comes to enhancing life at Nocatee. Even events like its weekly farmer’s market have the extra ben-efi t of on-staff event planners to create an incredible ex-perience for attendees. Farmers Markets have featured a pirate theme and even a frisbee-throwing dog show that was a big hit. Many events are actually open to all resi-dents of St. Johns County. Rick Ray is quick to remind that it is the resi-dents of Nocatee that help create the energy and lifestyle of the community as a whole and which is making this community a popular destination both nationally and among local families.

NOCATEE A Smart Growth Community of the Future

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SPRING DESIGN TRENDS in Home Decor

including fab-rics, wallpapers, rugs and accessories in BOLD geometric prints including STRIPESBeautiful, bright pops of color, like Aqua blue, Emerald green, Sunny yellow or Burnt Orange!Using a variety of in a space, such as rustic woods, seagrass rugs, em-bellished walls, and soft plush fabrics, inspire warmth and comfort and add character to a room.

aren’t just for hanging these days! Mirrored accents are on everything from desks and dressers to coffee tables and even wastebaskets! Mirrors and mir-rored furniture can visually expand your space while adding a touch of style!

is your resource for unique home furnishings, ac-cessories, flooring, custom bedding, draperies, art work and more. Wendy Chandler, owner of The Home Store by Chandler Designs was recently honored with three Lau-rel Awards for best interior merchandising for her designs. We are also excited to announce the launch of located inside The Model Home Store.We offer the latest selection of Crib Bedding Designs and Nursery Decor. Come browse one of the hottest full service design stores in Jacksonville. 1515 CR 210 W

Suite 107 (1/2 Mile East of I-95 on CR 210). Monday-Friday 10-5 and Saturdays 9-1. 904-826-

1748 www.wchandlerdesigns.com www.babblebabydecor.com

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St. Johns Magazine~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-853810

Caring for Your Patio Furniture by Danielle Shanks

Here in Florida we are fortunate enough to be able

to enjoy our outdoor areas almost all year long. With that in

mind our outdoor furniture is subject to the elements continu-

ally. A good quality patio set is a wise investment and regular

care and maintenance can help prolong the life of the furniture

while enhancing its beauty. Depending on the area that you live

more frequent maintenance may be required, such as seaside

and poolside settings due to excessive salt spray and chlorides.

Simply rinsing with clear water oft en will help to eliminate this

residue and prevent build-up of these corrosives.

Most manufacturers have care and maintenance guide-

lines on their websites specifi c to their products. If you know

the manufacturer, that is a good place to start.

General Care and Cleaning GuidelinesFrames: Painted Aluminum, Resin Wicker and Polymer. Re-

move any loose dirt and debris. A vacuum with a brush attach-

ment works well on wicker frames. Next use a soft brush or

sponge with a solution of ¼ cup mild liquid soap to 1 gallon of

lukewarm water and rinse well. Avoid using any abrasive clean-

ers. We also recommend using 1 for All Gard or a liquid auto

wax on glossy painted aluminum frames.

Th is is also a good time to check for worn down foot

glides which can lead to damaged frames as well as scratched

patio surfaces. For stability and safety reasons inspection of

all hardware such as bolts, swivel rocker mechanisms, glider

arms and chaise wheels is recommended. Th ese are all parts

that should be lubricated periodically and replaced as needed.

Small nicks and scratches should be touched up to prevent fur-

ther damage to the paint fi nish. Coastal Casual has a wide selec-

tion of replacement parts and touch-up paints. Fabrics: Cushions and Slings. Brush off or vacuum any loose dirt. Th en clean using a soft brush or sponge with

a solution of ¼ cup mild liquid soap per gallon of lukewarm

water. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap and allow to air

dry. Standing cushions on end will allow water to drain faster.

Cleaning spills promptly will avoid stains

setting.

For more information go to

www.backyardsolutions.net

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At Westminster Woods on Julington Creek, our residents quickly find they have more time to enjoy their passions in life now that they’re free from the time and expense of home maintenance. Choose from a variety of living styles and activities, all on our beautiful waterfront campus. For many of our residents, the only question le� was: Why did we wait so long?

Westminster Woods onJulington Creek

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Spring garden tip:“Tune up your irrigation system now — before it costs you a favorite plant or your lawn!”

— The folks at Nature’s Way Landscape Management

Call us for more information: 904-287-7300

BEFORE AFTER

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St. Johns Magazine ~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-8538 11

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St. Johns Magazine~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-853812

Th e St. Augustine Alligator Farm and Zoological Park, located on Anastasia Island across from the St. Augus-tine Lighthouse, exists in another dimension. A jungle world of ponds and marshes fi lled with critters great and small. So get ready to encounter giant alligators, lemurs, komodo dragons or a even python alongside the one of the most spec-tacular rookery’s along Florida’s coast. Th e Alligator Farm and Zoological Park is open year round but from April through July the park off ers a very special treat in its Wading Birds Rookery, an exhibit where wild snowy egrets, tri-color herons, pink roseate spoonbills and many more birds come to nest. Th e birds are not held in captivity but fl ock to the Alligator Farm on their own to nest in the surprising safety provided by the alligators that

swim the swamps and crawl in the sand beneath the trees. Th anks to the resident alligators, the birds know the nests are safe from climbing predators like raccoons. Th e Rookery is list-ed among the sites of the Great Florida

Birding Trail, a resource used by avid birders and photogra-phers, revealing it as a hidden treasure to local people who would like an educational and entertaining experience.

Inside the Rook-ery, it is possible see the wonders of nature in action as never before. An alliga-tor reaching up to snatch a snack, or birds lift ing off majestically to fl y across the Rookery to fetch a twig for their nests. Some of the nests are so close you can practically touch them,

while others are deep in the trees above. Th e birds are ac-customed to close proximity and do not seem to mind their human audience, tending to the business of building nests and fi nding food for their chicks. Th e most amazing sights require patience, good eyesight and hearing. If you are lucky you may see a baby snowy egret or tri-colored heron in its nest calling out for food. Th e chicks are most plentiful from May through July. In addition to the Rookery, the Alligator Farm and Zoological Park is home to hundreds of alligators and is a great place to learn about the habitats of reptiles, birds and mammals. Winding your way through the exhibits there are baby alligators, a rare al-bino alligator, toucans, mon-keys, crocodiles and so many others behind plexi-glass and tall wooden fences that view-ing is easy and safe for kids of all ages. Only the gorgeous red, yellow and blue macaw is out in the open hanging out on a perch. Th e lemurs will dazzle you with their gymnastics tricks and the hourly alligator shows will teach you all you want to know about these giant Floridians. Founded by George Reddington and Felix Fire, Th e Alligator Farm & Zoological Park has been a fi xture of An-astasia Island since 1893. Exhibiting hundreds of alligators, numerous species of Florida’s venomous snakes and other

wild animals, Reddington and Fire’s Alligator Farm earned a

reputation as “the world’s largest alligator farm.”

St. Johns resi-

dents are lucky to have

this local treasure. For

ticket and schedules visit

www.alligatorfarm.com

Hang’in at the Rookery Hang’in at the Rookery with the Gators and Friends...with the Gators and Friends...

Lemurs, Tortoises, Monkeys, Parakeets & Snakes!Lemurs, Tortoises, Monkeys, Parakeets & Snakes!

Photo by Cher Brown

Photo by Cher Brown

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St. Johns Magazine ~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-8538 13

June 17th-21stGeneva Presbyterian

1755 SR 13

August 5th-9thPonte Vedra Presbyterian

4510 Palm Valley Road

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St. Johns Magazine~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-853814

Dr Peter Veling DVM is the owner of Palencia Pet Clinic

Bricks 4 Kidz S U M M E R C A M P SA Bricks 4 Kidz® camp is a fresh and fun way for kids to

spend their summer break.

DRAMA KIDS & YOUNG REMBRANTS

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ZOO CAMP at Alligator Farm and Zoological Park:

St. Augustine LighthouseSea the Possibilities Summer Camps 2013 at the Lighthouse!

YMCA

The Hub forSummer Camp & Enrichment

by St. Johns Magazine

2013

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St. Johns Magazine~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-853816

The Scene - April 2013ITECH SMARTPHONE REPAIR ON CR210

Do you have a smart phone or computer that is broken? If so, bring it down to the newest shop on CR 210 – ITECH

SMARTPHONE REPAIR where owner Ryan Westover will solve your dilemma. Ryan is excited about his new business and

believes customer service is a priority. “If I can, I go out of my way to fi x it,” he said.

ITECH SMARTPHONE REPAIR is a locally owned business. Ryan was born and raised in St. Johns, attended Nease

High School and is a graduate of Pedro Menendez High School and St. Johns River Community College. After serving as a St.

Johns County Police Deputy, Ryan decided to join his brother Brett in business and opened the 2nd branch of ITECH SMART-

PHONE REPAIR (the original is in St. Augustine and is owned by Brett).

When he is not working Ryan enjoys spending time with his wife Andrea and their sixteen-month old Korbin. They

like to hunt and fi sh together, and visit the Florida Keys every year with family.

Ryan is a talented baseball player who played shortstop in high school and third base in college and even caught

the eye of big league baseball and was prospected by the Baltimore Orioles. He says he would love to coach someday and

looks forward to seeing his son play ball but doesn’t want to put any pressure on him. Instead, he hopes a love of baseball

will develop naturally.

Ryan says his entrepreneurial spirit was most infl uenced by his mom. She was a single mom who raised three boys

while maintaining a full time job. “If I can have even half the initiative she has I’ll be successful,” he says.

L

MEDOOD!

April 3, 2013Commemorative Reenactment of the Landing of Juan Ponce de Leon,.Historic St. Augustine’s Bay Front, St. Augustine, http://www.StAugustine-450.comColorful re-enactment ceremonies. 500th anniver-sary of Ponce de Leon’s April 3, 1513 landing on the shores of his ‘La Florida’. The day’s activities begin at 8:15 a.m. with a ceremonial gathering at the Fountain of Youth Archeological Park. www.StAu-gustine-450.com

April 5th through April 7th The Healing Farm Juice Fast. Detox and enjoy three days of organically prepare juices from April 5 thru the 7th $120.00 call to re-serve also call gita for reservations. www.gitayoga.com

April 5th through April 7th Rhythm & RibsThe 18th Annual Rhythm & Ribs Festival presented by the St. Augustine Sunrise Rotary and sponsored by Bozard Ford will take place April 5-6-7, 2013 at the Event Field on U.S. 1 and W. Castillo Drive, downtown St. Augustine. This 3-day festival fea-tures six national BBQ teams competing for your votes, and nationally known musicians such as JJ Grey & Mofro. All proceeds benefi t local and inter-national charities. Come join us for continuous live music, great food and huge kid’s zone with rides

and games, and support your community as you enjoy this festival. Visit http://rhythmandribs.net/ for more information and to contact the festival planners.\ http://rhythmandribs.net/schedule-2/[email protected]

April 6, 2013Evening Nature Program at Anastasia State ParkPark rangers or volunteers present programs on var-ious topics ranging from sea turtles to star gazing. Programs take place at open-air pavilions with one of the most beautiful scenic backdrops in Northeast Florida as inspiration. Program included in regular admission of $8 per vehicle. 1340 A1A, St. Augus-tine. Times vary throughout year. For more infor-mation, call 904-461-2035; 1340 A1A South, Saint Augustine, FL 32080 http://www.fl oridastateparks.org/anastasia.

April 6, 2013Sunset Celebration at Vilano Beach Town CenterSunset across the bay -- plus, dozens of market vendors, live music, local arts and crafts and more can be found on the pier! Activities are from 3 p.m. - dusk. Free. 115 Vilano Rd., St. Augustine. Info: 904-540-0402; www.vilanobeachfl .com

April 6, 2013

First Friday Art Walk, St. AugustineOn the fi rst Friday of each month, enjoy the latest exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at more than 20 St. Augustine art galleries. Park for free at the San Sebastian Winery, 157 King Street, where sightseeing trains and trolleys off er free round-trips to the heart of the art district – or go on

your own self-guided art walk. Galleries are open from 5 to 9 p.m. San Sebastian Winery, 157 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084 - 904-829-0065http://www.artgalleriesofstaugustine.com

April 9, 2013Hotel Ponce de Leon Anniversary Lecture, St. Au-gustine, 74 King Street, 903-823-3378, http://www.ponce125.com. Dr. Brenda Kauff man pres-ents a lecture titled "The Golden Gleam of the Gild-ed Surface and the Cheapness of the Metal: Political Corruption and American Policy Reforms in the 19th Century". 10 a.m. in the Flagler Room at the former Hotel Ponce De Leon, 75 King St., St. Augustine. Ad-mission is free.www.ponce125.com

April 11th, 2013 to April 14th, 2013Masters Weekend at World Golf Hall of Famewww.WorldGolfHallofFame.org. Celebrate the Masters Tournament with a visit to the World Golf Hall of Fame to enjoy photo opportunities with the Hall's Masters Trophy, go on a special scavenger hunt and watch the broadcast during regular mu-seum hours.

April 12th, 2013 to April 14th, 2013World Golf Hall of Fame Putting Championship. Participants compete for prizes including golf trips, rounds of golf and more! The competition takes place on the Hall of Fame's 18-hole, natural grass putting course. Qualifying days are Friday and Sat-urday. 904-940-4133http://www.worldgolfhalloff ame.org

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St. Johns Magazine ~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-8538 17

Community ~ Family ~ Fun Photo by Cher Brown

April 14, 2013St. Augustine Royal TeaAfternoon tea party with St. Augustine’s Royal Fam-ily -- Queen Marianna, King Juan Carlos and Princess Margarita Maria -- portrayed by local heritage resi-dents. The tea will take place at 2:30 p.m. at the St. Augustine Cathedral Courtyard, 40 Cathedral Place. Admission is free. Info: 904-829-2333.40 Cathedral Place and St. George Street, St. Augus-tine, FL 32084. 904-829-2333

April 18, 2013Master Gardeners’ Plant Clinic10am. Weeds? Bugs? Bad soil? Having trouble mak-ing your gardens grow? Bring your questions and get solutions at the Master Gardeners’ plant clinic today at 10 am!

April 18th, 2013 to April 21st, 201311th Annual Florida’s Birding & Photo FestExperience northeast Florida’s abundant bird life and photogenic natural beauty at more than 110 exciting birding and outdoor photography events during the 2013 Florida’s Birding & Photo Fest! In addition to the ever-popular nature tours and excursions, new discoveries for this year’s event include workshops on preparing your images and composition, photo-graphing birds in fl ight, selections and layer mask-ing, fl ash techniques and many in fi eld photography workshops.The festival is headquartered at the GTM Research Reserve, located 8 miles north of St. Au-gustine on A1A N. Discover the region’s phenomenal bird life and the abundant natural habitats that sus-tain them with bird walks and boat and kayak trips to undisturbed areas. Ponte Vedra Beach. 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082. 904-209-4422http://www.Flori-dasBirdingAndPhotoFest.com

April 20th, 2013

to April 21th,

2013

18th Annual Flower &

Garden Expo

Growers, educational

seminars, nurseries and

artisans from around

the state off er gardeners

everything they need to

make spring bloom. Ad-

mission is $ 5 (which is

good for both days) and

children under 11 are admitted free. The Expo takes

place Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.

- 4 p.m. at the St. Johns County Agricultural Center,

3125 Agricultural Center Dr., located off SR 16 in St.

Augustine. Info: 904.829.3295; visit www.epiccom-

munityservices.org 3125 Agricultural Center Drive,

St. Augustine, FL 32095. 904-829-3295

April 21, 2013The Healing Farm Indian Vegetarian Cooking classIndian vegetarian cooking class April 21 from 5.to 7pm $35 .00. call gita for reservations .. www.gi-tayoga.com

April 22 to April 26, 2013Free Entrance Day/Castillo de San Marcos www.NPS.gov/casaAvenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084http://www.NPS.gov/casa

April 27, 2013Taste of St. AugustineThis fl avorful event showcases more than 30 area restaurants’ signature dishes. The St. Augustine Amphitheatre will be transformed into a culinary marketplace off ering the participating restaurants’ “signature tastes” as well as cookbooks, cooking equipment and other specialty food items. Through-out the afternoon and evening, restaurants are judged for the “best of” in numerous categories and for the prestigious ‘The People’s Choice Award’. This tasty event takes place from noon - 8 p.m. Admis-sion to the Taste of St. Augustine is $5 and taste tick-

ets are $1 each with restaurants charging between 1 and 5 tickets per taste.1340 A1A South, St. Augus-tine, FL 32084. 904-829-3295 www.epiccommuni-tyservices.org.

April 27, 2013Uptown Saturday NightSan Marco Avenue, St. Augustine904-823-9263, From 5 – 9 p.m. on the last Satur-day of each month, experience live music, refresh-ments, new exhibits, book signings and much more at the galleries, antique stores and unique shop on St. Augustine’s San Marco Avenue between Ripley’s Museum and the Mission Nombre de Dios. The Mis-sion Nombre de Dios provides FREE PARKING.

April 27, 2013 Ultimate Racing, Inc. will hold their 2nd annual 210W 5K Challenge sponsored by Orthopaedic Associates of St. Augustine and United Martial Arts and presented by St. Johns Pediatric Dentistry. At

8:30am The race will go through St. Johns Golf & Country Club fi nishing on the soccer fi eld. All partic-ipants receive a Tee, medal, great food, drinks and as with all of their races, overalls and age groupers get the chance to stand on their signature podium. The event is chip-timed.Log on to their website or active.com to register. www.ultimateracinginc.com.

April 27, 2013The Healing Farm Invites you to attend a Commu-nity Service Event: Enjoy Yoga, Meditation and a Vegetarian Dinner from 5-7pm. Call Gita to reserve your space at 540-0365. 2105 Powell Road, St. Augustine, FL 32084 (just off SR16) www.gitayoga.com

May 4, 2013Bartram Trail Relay for Life 12:00 PM. Bartram Trail High School, 7399 Longleaf Pine Pkwy, Saint Johns, FL 32259

Presented by

JOIN ULTIMATE RACING INC. FOR THE 2ND ANNUAL 210W 5K CHALLENGE

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St. Johns Magazine~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-853818

Health, Beauty & Wellness

Can chiropractic help with seasonal

allergies? Spring is in the air and this time of year many

of us suff er from seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies

are caused by an overreaction of the immune system.

Our immune system is designed to protect us from

bacteria, viruses and toxins. Some people however

have a hypersensitivity to a typically harmless sub-

stance. During an allergic response, the immune sys-

tem perceives this harmless substance as a potentially

dangerous invader and initiates the body’s defense sys-

tem and an allergic reaction occurs.

Chiropractors take a whole body approach to sea-

sonal allergies. We work with the body to strengthen

the immune system through adjustments, proper diet,

reducing stress and improving rest to help the body re-

cover and stay well. People under regular chiropractic

care report fewer allergic symptoms and overall better

health.

Can chiropractic help low back pain

during pregnancy? Chiropractor care can be very benefi cial to

pregnant women. One of the reasons pregnant women

seek chiropractic care is low back pain and sciatica. As

their body goes through changes, their center of grav-

ity changes and the additional weight can lead to in-

creased stress on the low back.

Chiropractors use modifi ed tables and adjust-

ment techniques that are safe and comfortable during

pregnancy. We also recommend stretches and exer-

cises that can help alleviate discomfort naturally. As

always, there are contra-indications to adjusting some

women, so make sure you seek a chiropractor that has

experience treating pregnant patients.

Please feel free to call my offi ce at 904-547-2435 or email at

[email protected] if you have more questions or

would like some additional information. Th e answers here

refl ect results that I have experienced in my practice, but ev-

eryone responds diff erently.

If you have any specifi c questions you would like addressed

in the next forum, please email me at DrMelindaTolitsky@

att.net.

A Message from the ChiropractorDr. Melinda S. Tolitsky, DC

Page 19: april issue opt

St. Johns Magazine ~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-8538 19

limited time

Untreated hearing loss can cost you more than you might think.

Irritability. Negativism. Fatigue. Withdrawal from Social Situations.

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Page 20: april issue opt

St. Johns Magazine~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-853820

A Message from the Vet

The Mistakes We Make With Our Pets - Part 2

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Aft er the last column I received an email about another

pet’s harrowing experience. Th anks for the letter, Donna.

Hi Dr. Veling,

I have been reading your columns in the St Johns

magazine. I am an animal lover who made a mistake of our own

with our terrier mix, Nellie.

Our story begins on a November evening, in a north-

west suburb of Chicago. We were on the way to pick up our son

from college for Th anksgiving break. He caught a ride with his

college roommate whose parents lived about 45 minutes away.

We decided to bring Nellie with us to greet her “brother” whom

she missed very much while he was away. As we were driving

and heavy in conversation, we never noticed a simple task, we

did not lock the windows in the car. Nellie is almost 60 pounds.

So, when her big paw rests on the power window button, she is

quite capable of lowering the window. As we were making a left

turn on a fairly busy road we heard a long beeping behind us.

Of course, we know how impatient Chicago drivers are. We just

fi gured it was a driver trying to get home and thought, “Man,

what a jerk!” When the light turned green we drove on, think-

ing “What’s his problem?” As we drove another couple hundred

yards I felt cold air coming from the back. I turned around and,

to my horror, the rear window was down and no Nellie! My

husband quickly pulled over to the side of the road and started

running back in the direction we had traveled. Minutes seemed

like an eternity. I made an illegal u-turn to see if I could fi nd my

husband and my beloved dog. When I saw my husband carry-

ing Nellie I suspected the worst. My fears exploded in tears and

sobs. As I ran to see what had happened, I was relieved to see

our Nellie was fi ne. My husband was carrying her because he

neglected to bring the leash with him.

As he told me of Nellie’s adventure, I was ecstatic that

she had survived without a scratch! Nellie must have pushed the

window button, opening it. As we made the turn, she fell out.

Th e “jerk” driver actually saved her life. He saw Nellie fl y out

the window and beeped to get our attention. He then stopped,

ran aft er and caught her. We were shaken but so very happy that

our beloved Nellie was uninjured. By the time we got to where

our son was waiting, we were truly grateful to be all in one piece!

So, as I read your article about the Cocker Spaniel fall-

ing to its death, I felt the need to ask you to remind your readers

to not only keep windows up to a safe level, but also lock the

windows and the doors as well to prevent situations like what we

learned the hard way.

Th ank you, Donna

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Page 21: april issue opt

St. Johns Magazine ~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-8538 21

The Healing

Gita Reiki

2105 Powell RoadSaint Augustine

540-0365

www.gitayoga.comFor Those Who Seek A Place to

Rest, Relax and Rejuvenate

Technology has changed the way we live. Technology has im-

proved our lives in so many areas, from traveling to the moon,

forecasting weather, TV, computers, medicine and yes hearing aids and telephones.

Baby boomers and our parents and grandparents can remember sharing a telephone

service with our neighbors, the ‘party line’. Now everyone, even young children, have a

cell phone in our pocket.

Improvements and changes from analog to digital technology are seen in

everything. Hearing aids and telephones especially have improved with digital tech-

nology. This transition occurred in the 1990’s. The change was not easy and regulations

were put in eff ect to insure that digital hearing aids and digital cell phones were com-

patible. Let me explain.

All hearing aids are digital, as are cell phones. When buying a cell phone

you want to it to work well with your digital hearing aid and it will. There are 2 descrip-

tions, “M” and “T” to look for on a cell phone. “M” refers to how compatible the cell

phone is with a digital hearing aid. The rating starts with #1 and goes to #4. M4 is the

best.

“T” indicates if the cell phone has a telecoil. A telecoil or telephone coil is a

magnetic output that some hearing aids, not all hearing aids, can pick-up. Again the

rating is from # 1 - #4 and #4T is the best. All land line telephones have a telecoil. Tele-

coils are very helpful for someone with a severe hearing loss and must use a powerful

hearing aid.

When buying a cell phone ask and determine that the rating is M4 and T4.

But wait, technology has moved forward and now hearing aids are Bluetooth enabled.

That’s right! Now hearing aid users can use their cell phones hands free and hear their

cell phones through their hearing aids. Let me explain.

Bluetooth technology was introduced in the hearing aid industry about 3

years ago. It is here and continues to improve signifi cantly. First you must have a good

recent technology digital hearing aid. To connect via Bluetooth technology requires an

interface, a device that is worn usually around your neck or in your pocket. This device is

connected, ‘paired’, to your cell phone and it sends the cell phone signal to your hearing

aids. Now you are hearing amplifi ed through both hearing aids and it is hands free!

These Bluetooth interface devices will connect with more than one Bluetooth device,

such as your computer, iPad, GPS device, or TV.

Are you struggling to hear? Have you stopped using the telephone or cell

phone because you are missing conversation? Have your hearing evaluated and fi nd

out if new improved digital hearing aids and Bluetooth technology can keep you in

touch with family, friends, professionals and your doctor.

My offi ce is in the Mandarin area. I am a Board Certifi ed Doctor of Audiol-

ogy licensed in Florida since 1983. I represent many hearing aid manufacturers to fi nd

the best technology for every life style and budget. Call me and let me help you hear

better and stay connected to your world.

Rosann W. Faull, Au.D. CCC-A, Board Certifi ed Doctor of Audiology

12276 San Jose Blvd. Suite 710, Jacksonville, Fl 32223, 904-262-5550

Hearing Loss and TelephonesHearing Loss and Telephonesby Dr. Rosann W. Faull

Disclaimer: The patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel, or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination or care which is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted fee, or reduced fee service, examination or care

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expires 4/30/2013

904-547-2435

309 Kingsley Lake Drive Ste. 904 Saint Augustine, FL 32092

DR. MELINDA S. TOLITSKY, D.C.

Page 22: april issue opt

St. Johns Magazine~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-853822

Northeast Florida has quite a diverse landscape, from

the beach to the river, islands to farmland. St. Johns County also

has a variety of houses, from planned communities to a unique log

cabin. Th is month we will take a peek at some of these homes.

Cunningham Creek Plantation

A kid-friendly community with a neighborhood school

can be found at Cunningham Creek Plantation. School mornings

here fi nd kids walking, biking, even skateboarding the tree-lined

streets to school; oft en with parents, siblings in strollers, and occa-

sional dogs (leashed of course) tagging along. Th e waterways that

run throughout are full of bass and catfi sh. Fishermen can toss a

line out from a backyard or from a non-motorized boat. Paddle-

boats, canoes, and kayaks are oft en used to cruise around on the

weekends. Th e water is also an attraction for numerous types of

wildlife, such as a variety of ducks, Canadian geese, heron, other

waterfowl and otters. Th e neighborhood is well organized with its

own facebook page and coupon club.

St. Augustine

Beach

Ken and

Holly Soud enjoy

island living on St.

Augustine Beach, a

part of Anastasia Is-

land. Th eir Mediter-

ranean style house,

built in 1998, is right

on the beach. Built of concrete, it is sturdy and hurricane proof. In-

side and out the home abounds with mosaic tile work, some laid by

the owners with the help of their grandchildren. One special mo-

saic piece is a rendering of the house by a Savannah artist. Other art

by local artists such as Jim Draper and Michelle Pent can be found

within the stylish two-story home. In the front of the home is a

shady garden area with fi g and olive trees, as well as rose bushes.

With a 340 foot boardwalk that extends over the dunes and a year

round sea breeze enjoyed on the upstairs veranda, the Souds get

plenty of visitors. “One of the best parts about living here is feeling

like you are on vacation all the time, as well as living in a historic

area.” says Holly. With the city of St. Augustine just up the road,

there is always somewhere to take guests.

Whitelock Farms

Whitelock

Farms is a horse

community off 210

with lots ranging

from 2 to 10 acres.

Th is neighborhood

off ers a common

arena for English

and western riding,

as well as fi ve miles

of horse trails for

pleasure riding. Only about half of the residents have horse barns,

so being an equestrian is not a requirement. When Norman and

Suzanne Graham moved here in 2000, they only had two neigh-

bors, but now this attractive neighborhood is well established.

Located near some of the county’s top schools and the Southside

Saddle Club, this is a perfect location for families and horse lovers

of all ages.

Intracoastal Waterway

Just a few miles inland from the Atlantic lies the Intra-

coastal Waterway. Th is saltwater channel, built from 1883-1912,

goes from Jacksonville to Miami. Roscoe Blvd. runs parallel, with

attractive waterway homes on the north side and horse properties

on the south side. Homeowners with waterfront properties enjoy

the ease of launching a boat from their backyard. Th ey also can

take pleasure in the many wonders of nature seen daily, such as

bald eagles, manatees, porpoises, otters, and an occasional shark.

Neighbors have even reported seeing a Florida panther in the area.

Th e acreage to the west of the waterway belongs to the Dee Dot

Ranch and will remain untouched, a natural preserve full of wild-

life. One other plus to living here are the three waterfront restau-

rants on Roscoe: Lulu’s, Barbara Jean’s, and Palm Valley Fish Camp.

Log Cabin in Fruit Cove

When Don and Berle Mc Donald built their log cabin in

Fruit Cove in 1986, Roberts was just a dirt road. With plans for

their long dreamed of home, logs were cut and the building be-

gan. With the help of family and friends, the house was completed

in 11 months. From the kitchen window is a view of Lake Belu-

thahatchee, which was created in 1948 by Stetson Kennedy by the

damming of Mill Creek, a tributary of the St. Johns River. Ken-

nedy purchased a 70 acre tract and established the area of Belu-

thahatchee, which, according to Zora Neale Hurston, describes “a

mythical Florida Shangri-la where all unpleasantness is forgiven

and forgotten”. Th e area is now a bird sanctuary. Here, just as the

sun rises, the snowy egrets fl y north and then return in the evening

as the sun is setting. Also to be seen in the area are raccoons, al-

ligators, otters, ospreys, owls, and many other species. Kennedy’s

friend Woody Guthrie composed many songs at Beluthahatchee,

including several about Kennedy, such as “Beluthahatchee Bill”.

Th e McDonalds enjoy the rich history of their area and have made

many of their own memories here, like the western style wedding

where over 75 people gathered in their home.

Whether you are a “Florida Cracker” or a new resident of St. Johns County, I think you will agree this is a place to take root and call home.

At Home in St. Johns CountyWritten & Photographed by Angie Bell

Page 23: april issue opt

St. Johns Magazine ~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-8538 23

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Page 24: april issue opt

St. Johns Magazine~ Stjohnsmag.com ~904-687-853824

ST. JOHNS MAGAZINESt. Johns & St. Augustine, FL

904-687-8538 or [email protected]

www.stjohnsmag.com