On behalf of the St. Johns County School District, it is an honor to serve your children and families. Our mission as a school district is to inspire good character and a passion for lifelong learning in all students, creating educated and caring contributors to the world.  Through the dedication and caring nature of teachers, administrators, and support staff, our students are able to achieve high standards in academics, sports and extracurricular activities. Having remarkable students and parents has also helped us remain a high performing school district. Statewide, our students score exceptionally well, earning the top scores in many reporting categories.  Students in grade 3-10 earned the top scores in the state in reading.  In math, students in grade 3-6 earned the highest scores.  Additionally, our students tied for first in the state on the Algebra End-of-Course Exam.  Students in grades 5 and 8 earned the top scores in science.  Moreover, in 2018, our district graduation rate was 93.3 percent, which is above the state average of 86.1 percent.  School grades released by the Florida Department of Education last month show that we continue to be a top preforming district in the state and one of two that has consistently remained an “A” rated district.
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    Throughout the summer, our administrative teams have been preparing for an incredible school year for your children.  We continue to hire highly qualified personnel to provide students with an exceptional educational experience.  It is our goal to ensure that all students graduate, prepared with 21st century skills to compete in the constantly changing world of digital and social environments.

​This school year we will continue to expand our safety initiatives to ensure that we provide a safe, secure, and dynamic learning environment for our children.  If you have not already, I encourage you to download the FortifyFL App.  This app allows the user to notify school personnel and law enforcement to provide a description of any threat, share pics and videos and optionally submit contact information.  We will have local law enforcement and/or armed security personnel at each school site offering increased security coverage.  In addition, we will provide ongoing mental health support for our students through specialized training, programs and resources.    
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    This year, we will be piloting an evidence-based program, Sources of Strength (SOS), at our high schools. SOS is a best practice youth suicide prevention project designed to harness the power of peer social networks to change unhealthy norms and culture, ultimately preventing suicide, bullying, and substance abuse.  As a district, we are committed to making resources available to students and families who need assistance.   

    I am so grateful to have the opportunity to serve as superintendent of St. Johns County Schools.  I want to thank every parent and family in our district for your continued support. Without you, we could not accomplish all that we do throughout the school year.   I encourage you to stay engaged and connected in your child’s education.  To stay up-to-date on the latest communication from St. Johns County Schools, please go to:  https://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/schoolmessenger/, and set up your account preferences.  I hope you and your children have an outstanding 2019/2020 school year!


Sincerely,
Tim Forson
Superintendent of Schools

After a lifetime of academic and non-profit  leadership, Judith Fox-Goldstein made the surprise discovery that she was an artist.  What she likes to refer to as her “art Awakening” began this past September and she says it's one of most exciting personal journey's she's encountered.  "You're Never Too Old to be Brand New!" said Judith.


Each colorful and soulful design shows a striking, somewhat abstract image of a woman accompanied by “story” and an inspirational quote.  The designs are all about women and empowerment and take the form of cards, or prints,  on plain craft paper with interesting embellishments, as well as framed pieces. She has integrated poets like Maya Angelou, Rumi, Gandhi, and many other inspirational writers.


The designs are called Makana Mixed Media, Designs by Jude.  It is art derived from a deep place within and is inspired by strong, fascinating women Judith has known throughout her life.


Ms. Attitude: Ode to Irene is based on Judith’s Mother-in-law.  As Judith explains, “FIERCE” is the word that comes to mind when I think of my beloved Mother-in-law, Irene. She loved her family with unparalleled devotion and I was so very lucky that my husband Michael came as a ‘package deal’ with 3 fantastic siblings and “Mama Loo”. She was a FORCE! She entered the room – hair first! When she passed away, I was honored to give her eulogy. I began with, “For as long as I have known Irene… her HAIR HAS NEVER MOVED!” She would have loved that”.


Judith is a transplant from the Big Island of Hawai'i, and spent most of her professional and personal life on the beautiful Island where she raised her two children. The art she creates is frequently informed by strong, powerful women she knew in Hawai’i.


One design called Kamali’i Kehau: “You Dance Inside My Heart” is based on a Hawaiian, Samoan, Chinese & Hau’oli (Caucasian) woman and teacher of dance.  Kamali’i story: She is a Master Hula Dancer and teaches young children from the age of 2 years old.  Her life is Hawaiian music, dance and the mo’olelo stories and traditions of Hawaiian. She hopes to bring her Hula Halau (dance troupe) to perform at the Smithsonian.


Judith said this was her first Hawaiian design. “I agonized over this because I wanted to get her features right and pay homage to what has been my adopted culture for most of my life.”

Her awakening as an artist was a surprise. When she moved to northern Florida with her husband she says she was terribly sad leaving all of her roots and thought she would never be happy again.   “I finally learned that I could carry all of that beauty inside my heart and grow and expand from bountiful memories and experiences in Hawaii. My husband, Michael would be extremely surprised to hear me say, "Mahalo Nui Loa (thank you very much), for bringing me here because I have discovered an entire new ME!... it's a place of unlimited growth and love and all the people I have met here are now part of my Ohana... My family”.

This art reflects Judith’s journey as a human.  Of the triumphs and challenges that we all face as women. She says, “creating, giving them a voice, is powerfully healing”.
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The art is now on display at CC Gallery/Framing Shop on San Jose near Barnes and Noble. All of this is so unexpected for Judith, she is still making sense of it all. “It took my breath away  to see it displayed. When CC Framing and Gallery owner, Chris, told me that my first piece sold,  well, I think my spirits literally lifted off the ground I believe I can now really call myself an artist!”

When looking for the perfect place to care for your fur babies, it’s not just about the convenience and cost but even more, it is the kind staff who greets you at the door and the knowledge, experience & compassion of the veterinarians that make all the difference. Animal Medical Clinic at St. Johns offers all of this and more with a philosophy centered on pet health with heart!

​For veterinarians Dawn Stewart and Lisa Hill, pets are all in the family.  Dr. Stewart and her husband, who is also a veterinarian, have a house full of eight adorable dogs (2 on the cover of SJM) and one “very patient” cat.  Dr. Hill and her family have two dogs, three cats (one of whom is a sphynx) and a hamster that needed a home.

​They both view their patients as family pets, too.  “We’re passionate about treating our patients as if they’re our own pets,” says Dr. Stewart.
“We give personalized attention to each and every animal,” adds Dr. Hill, “and we strive to provide the utmost compassion and highest quality, most advanced medical care.  Communication with pet parents is the most important aspect of my job.  I always try to make sure they understand the diagnosis and treatment of their pets in partnership with myself and our team.”

     ​Animal Medical Clinic offers a wide range of services, including pet wellness and nutrition, diagnostic internal medicine, dental care, urgent care, health certification, microchipping and even therapeutic pain management using multiwave locked system (MLS) laser therapy.

    “MLS laser therapy helps treat and control acute and chronic pain in animals,” explains Dr. Stewart.  “It quickly relieves pain and reduces inflammation, and it can be beneficial for post-surgical healing, chronic arthritis, and inflamed or infected ears.  Laser therapy is a fast, pain-free and non-invasive treatment to help pets return to their favorite activities.”

Because they care so much about providing the best care for their patients, the veterinarians also use a laser instead of a scalpel to minimize bleeding and pain for all surgical procedures.
    
Dr. Hill has long been a proponent of this type of approach.  From a very early age, she looked out for animals and had their best interests at heart.  “We used to go fishing as a family growing up,” she recalls.  “I was always the one to remove the fish from the hook to release it.  I wanted to make sure the fish were not harmed.  I would also search for turtles along the lakes and remove any hooks that were stuck in their mouths.  It’s surprising how many turtles would have hooks stuck in them, but I felt I could make a difference in the lives of the turtles I found.”
    


Both doctors truly have a heart for animals and the families they’re part of, which is why they also offer boarding services.  “We like giving our pet parents peace of mind while they’re away,” says Dr. Stewart.  “We already have a personal relationship with the pets and know all their medical history and individual needs.  Hopefully not, but if any medical problems arise during their stay, we’ll be the ones who take care of them.”
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    Regardless of the scenario, Dr. Stewart loves educating pet parents on the best care for their pets.  Originally from West Virginia, she graduated from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine.  She opened Animal Medical Clinic at St. Johns in 2002 and has been practicing in the area for 17 years.   
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    Dr. Hill received her education from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine and has been living and serving pet parents in St. Johns County for 14 years.  “I love the St. Johns area and feel it’s a wonderful place to raise our two children. I really enjoy bumping into clients at the supermarket and am very tied to this community.”

Photos by Mindy Kerr of Nature's Child Photography

Coastal Wine Market
641 Crosswater Parkway Suite B,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
coastalwinemarket.com

Shaun and Steve Lourie, Co-Owners, welcome everyone to Coastal Wine Market & tasting room in Nocatee with a hug and a smile.  The couple’s warmth reflects who they are and their vision within the community.  As Shaun puts it, “our guests are part of the family”.  “We want CWM to be a place to gather together for a good time, relaxed conversation and personal connection”. “It’s a haven for the adults of northern St. Johns,” adds Steve with a smile.
    The couple moved to Nocatee from New Jersey in 2013 to be closer to family.  They loved the community and saw an opportunity to create a gathering place for residents in northern St. Johns.  Thus, the concept of a wine market was envisioned and came to fruition.  From function to form, the well-traveled pair borrowed business and design elements from favorite places they had visited and enjoyed. Whether a guest stops in for a quick beer, glass of wine or a bite of tapas the experience is always warm and comfortable. That feeling was translated to the interior design and detailed in handmade wooden tables, flight boards and a barn door all designed by local artisans, as well as 120-year-old reclaimed bricks procured from New York City.
    Steve, who is originally from Boston, is a Sommelier and has an extensive background in hospitality. “He has a way with people,” says Shaun. He is the “face” of CWM while she is the wizard behind the scenes, taking care of operations.  Together they make the perfect hosts.
    At 4:30 on a Thursday afternoon the place is hopping with activity as neighbors drop by for a glass of wine, a light meal and conversation.  Steve says it is not uncommon for guests to strike up a friendship as they sit near each other enjoying fine wine and food. The next time he sees them, they come in together.
    The wine selection, which covers an entire wall, ranges from high end selections to table wines, with each wine displaying a rustic tag with detailed tasting notes. If guests are not sure what to order they just ask Steve for advice or try a flight board to test out a variety and determine their palate. For craft beer lovers, CWM offers the chance to try unique craft beer from local and national breweries. Their esteemed Wine Club is a hit with patrons and offers free membership and three participation levels.

Chef Jody Petronella was destined to enter the culinary world in the footsteps of his family.  Chef Jody’s Uncle, a restaurateur himself, started instructing him on creating the family’s favorite Italian dishes.  He paid his dues by working at their family restaurant at first by becoming a dishwasher, working the restaurant’s sauté line and eventually taking over the restaurant.  After working in other various restaurants, Jody became a Firefighter/Paramedic. However, the lure of the kitchen beckoned him back to becoming a Personal Chef and ultimately to enroll in Culinary School.  Next, Chef operated a Food Truck under the name of Jody Cannoli which enabled him to hone his culinary skills and interact directly with his audience.  He was on the right path and eager to uncover his next culinary adventure.  And, then a fateful meeting with Steven Lourie, Co-Owner of Coastal Wine Market & tasting room, set him in his present position.  Chef Jody states, “CWM is totally on the mark with what I want to do – a shop that showcases great wines paired with small plates and entrees to offer a complete guest experience.”

by Pamela Hemmen

​Ever feel like everything in your life is perfect?  Yeah, we did at one time too.  Three healthy smart kids, a pretty house, plenty of food, Geoff has been successful in his career, my real estate business has never been better, and our friends are abundant and always ready for laughs.  We were living the dream!  In late June of 2017, my son Chris dragged me along to a traffic counting job, life had been so hectic it was nice to have a few hours of only Chris and I sitting on a rural corner, in the shade, counting cars, talking about life and how blessed we are.  How perfect things seemed to be.  Not knowing that three short weeks later we would go from “living the dream” to “living every parent’s nightmare”.  Our perfect world flipped upside-down with that one phone call….. Chris.  Accident.  Severe Brain Injury.  Hospital.  Get here quick.  Phone drop.  Heart stops.  Mind blank.  …….Please God No!

Chris was on his way to work Sunday, July 23, 2017, at 9AM.  He coached 3-5 year-olds, teaching them the basics of sports.  Chris loved his job and loved working with kids.  This particular morning it was not raining, but for some reason, water had pooled in the road in this one large spot.  According to the driver behind Chris, he was driving the speed limit when he hydroplaned and slammed headfirst into an iron fence, then slid sideways where he quickly hit a fire hydrant causing the Jeep Liberty to begin to flip and as the car was in mid-air it hit a tree right at the top middle of the frame of the driver side door.  Right where Chris’ head was.  The structure of the vehicle did not hold up to the mid-air collision with the tree, his head took the majority of the impact before the car bounced back on the ground.  He was wearing his seat belt.  He was not speeding.  He was not texting & driving.  He was not on his cell phone.  He was doing everything right.

As I pulled into the Emergency Room bay, I swung open the car door before the car actually came to a stop.  I ran to the officer waiting to shuffle me into the room that was obviously only used for the most traumatic of patients.  The grim, dark look on all the faces of those wearing scrubs told me exactly what I prayed I wouldn’t hear.  This is not good.  My boy, my sweet 16-year-old boy, was laying there, motionless, wires connected to his head and to his chest, IV’s in his arms, and tubes in his mouth.  The machine to the right is rhythmically pumping air into his lungs, breathing for him.  The doctor tells me he has a Severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), his brain swelling is significant and increasing, his temperature is rising, and the prognosis is not good.  His brain injury was so severe that this hospital could not handle his case.  They would stabilize him then we needed to quickly move him to a hospital with a Pediatric Trauma Center, UF Health’s Trauma One was suggested.

That was the beginning of our nightmare.  A nightmare that continued for many weeks with every moment unsure if he will live or die, be a vegetable for life or somewhat recover, the outcome was uncertain.  The only thing we knew for sure was that our life, as we knew it, would never be the same.  Our perfect life we worked so hard for, we sacrificed for, we saved for, we fought for….was no longer.  These were the darkest and most broken days of my entire life, and I've had my fair share of both dark and broken.  But at this moment, a machine was breathing for my handsome, smart, active, thoughtful, caring, motionless, unconscious, brain injured son.  The future of our family is unknown, but will definitely involve a very long road and a very strong will to survive.

We were definitely grateful for the closeness of our family which would only grow closer.  The four of us leaned on each other, cried with each other, supported each other, and talked about what was happening, how to manage our emotions, and how to handle the way other people are handling the situation.  This was a hard one.  As we are going through this tragedy, we are also having to navigate the fields of how other people handle our tragedy.  Some not as good as others.  Some we learned to hold closer to our hearts and others we learned to remove from our lives forever.  You learn about priorities and you have lots of regrets.  Why didn’t I just keep him home and tell him he could not go to work today?  Why didn’t I just have him take the truck?  What if I didn’t make him give me another hug before he left the house, maybe those extra 5 seconds would have made a difference?  Yes, they made a difference… because I got one more hug that I may never get again.  I may never have those tan, soft, teenage arms and hands pat me on my head while saying “you’re cute when you’re short Mom”, or hold my hand in church, or wrap them around me in a bear hug while saying “squeeze!”  Yes, those 5 seconds made a difference.  All the difference in my world.
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During the next 21 days of Pediatric ICU at UF Health, we learned far more about the brain than I ever thought I would.  From brain swelling, possible surgeries, brain bleeding, tracheotomy, feeding tube, therapists….   So, so, so much MY brain hurt!  The doctors did not want to give us false hope by telling us Chris would recover, instead, they explained that he likely would never walk or talk again, would need constant supervision and should always need medications.  We all cried knowing our family will never, ever be the same.
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With much support from our village and a few family members, Chris’ siblings were adjusting surprisingly well.  Nolan would sit by Chris and play his ukulele while Sarah would hold his hand and tell him things going on at school or with friends.  Chris was still sedated and could not respond, but it felt good for the kids to try to communicate.

​The outpouring of support from our community gave Sarah and Nolan the idea to host a prayer circle at our neighborhood baseball field -because Chris loved baseball.  There were over 350 people in attendance at this event, some we knew and some we had never met, but all were there to pray and ask God to please leave this child on this earth and please bring him to full recovery.  Deacon Jerry from our church came to see us at the hospital after the prayer circle, he had been to see us a few days earlier to pray over Chris and to give him his “Last Rights”.  Deacon Jerry said the prayer circle was absolutely amazing and that this was the first time he had ever performed any sort of mass while standing in the back of a pickup truck (the stage) in the middle of a baseball field.

After this, we began getting messages from our village flashing one of Chris’ signature poses “a thumbs up” and a message that Chris was on their mind.  This gave us an idea….and the Facebook page “#ThumbsUp4Chris” was born.  We had our village members posting positive notes, pictures of them with their thumbs up, celebrities with thumbs up, high school clubs, local youth teams, as well as college teams all sporting their thumbs up.  It was a great way for people who just wanted to “do something”, to be able to “do something”.  It also was a great way for me to be able to post updates on Chris for all the world to see.  The kids also mass ordered custom #ThumbsUp4Chris and #Pray4Chris bracelets…soon the whole county was rockin’ these red accessories!

After 21 days at UF Health, we were taken by ambulance to Brooks Rehab Hospital.  At this time, Chris still had the “glassy-eyes”, couldn’t walk, couldn’t sit up, couldn’t hold his head up, only nourishment came from the feeding tube, he was still on antibiotics form his second bout with pneumonia, and he had only said one or two words.  We got settled in his new room, which would be his home (and my home) for the next 6 weeks.  Then all at once, Brooks amazing therapists were all in the room evaluating him at the same time talking in what seemed to be code to me at that time.  Little did I know it would only be a matter of days before I understood that “code”.  While having so many bodies evaluating my son at the same time was scary, the look of optimism, and positive vibes from these miracle workers was felt in a way that just made me cry.  An ugly, wet, hard cry.
That was a Friday.  Saturday & Sunday was spent getting to know the facility, staff, layout, and how things work with only a few therapy sessions.  Monday the therapy really began, 6-7 hours a day.  By Friday they had him strapped to a machine and 4 therapists helping him walk!  Two sitting on the bottom of this contraption, each holding a leg & foot and moving it like he was walking, this was to retrain/remind the brain what it is supposed to do.  On this day as I was filming him, he looks up at me flashes a smile and a thumbs up as he says “hi mom”.  It was at this point I felt my heart and mind shift from “sit back, observe, learn, take it all in” to “he can do this, he will do this, we will do this”.

Over the course of the next 5 weeks, his therapy was intense.  He learned to hold his head up, then his torso, then catch a ball and throw the ball.  His mind was exercised as well with speech therapy helping with memory recovery as well as math problems.  It was weird to see he couldn’t quite grasp the easy 2+2 math but could remember how to calculate the diameter of a circle and the angles of triangles.  The brain is a very unpredictable organ.
His therapy began every morning at 7 AM and ended between 3-4PM.  He would take a nap as the therapy was exhausting, eat dinner, then Chris and I would extend his therapy on our own.  We would talk about how we’re here to get better, so let’s make every second count.  Instead of watching TV or sitting around bored, we worked on math games, practiced holding a pencil, writing his name, drawing a picture, listening to music and singing songs, played board games …all of this activated the mind.  Soon we worked on learning how to scoot in his wheelchair, with his own feet, without hitting the walls!  When the therapists were told how hard we were working in the evenings and realized how intense I watched everything he did in therapy, they began helping me learn and advising what to practice in the evenings.  Chris and I would get in an extra 2-4 hours of therapy most nights and lots of extra laughs.  My boy was working hard to come back to us and to just be Chris again.

On September 15, Chris walked out of Brooks Rehab Hospital.  Unassisted.  Walked!  Unassisted!  His only medication was allergy related.  His next 4 months were 8 hour days spent at Brooks Outpatient Program which helped improve his cognitive healing while sleeping at home in his own bed.  The evenings were for studying with teachers from his high school who came to the house to assist with his studies, he was hoping to stay on track so he wouldn’t be held back.  Luckily, my smart boy was ahead of the academic game already and he only “needed” to take 2 classes.  He completed these classes before Christmas break.

On January 6, Chris walked into Bartram Trail High School right where he left off.  He was greeted with hugs and high-fives!  Administration offered to allow him the use of the elevator, but he refused and chose to take the stairs because he could.  He completed his Junior year along with his peers and is now ready to graduate high school in May 2019 with a 3.1 GPA.  In the fall he will move into the dorms and begin his next chapter of life at University of North Florida, in hopes of pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering.  (If you know of anyone offering scholarships, please let us know!)
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Chris is currently back to hanging with friends, playing his guitar, schooling many around the pool table, he’s completed two 5K’s, he works out in the gym, he’s even been able to introduce a small amount of surfing and is driving again.  He’s started his own business “Barefoot Boys Pressure Washing”, plans to be a BBQ taste tester with his favorite PICU nurse, and hopes to one day drive a Ford F150.
Life is good again.  Life is perfect again.  But life is still unpredictable.  Please take a moment to put down your cell phones, turn off Facebook, close up your laptop, turn off the TV, read to your kids, throw a ball with your kids, take a walk with your spouse, talk to an old friend, smell the roses while you can with your family.  And always, always, always take the extra 5 seconds for the second “squeeze”. 

     A visit to the dental office often elicits feelings of anxiety but what if you could enjoy the experience instead?  The husband and wife team of Dr. Jonas Ashbaugh and Dr. Kathleen Stevens work together to go the extra mile to ensure their patients feel comfortable and at ease.  They share a passion for dentistry, a dedication to education, and a commitment to caring for your smile.

    When you visit Blue Sky Dental Group, you will receive personal care and attention. The Dentists listen to what patients have to say about their dental health and help them achieve their best smile. Comprehensive dental exams along with a full complement of general, cosmetic and restorative dental treatments will assure that you achieve the best smile possible along with optimal oral health.

    Part of this philosophy is staying educated about improvements in the dental field with new technology, techniques, instruments, methods and materials allowing them to provide their patients with the best in oral care. As a result the patient’s experience is of the highest quality.
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    According to Dr. Jonas,  “Working together was very natural for us. We compliment each other in every way.  Dr. Stevens specializes in aesthetic beauty enhancements such as Botox or Juviderm and comprehensive orthodontics. Dr. Ashbaugh specializes in surgical procedures such as sedation, wisdom teeth, implant placement and various grafting procedures. Also, some patients prefer a male dentist or a female dentist so we are happy to accommodate.”

​    The  modern, clean waiting room of the practice is equipped with bottled water, fresh coffee and a friendly staff to greet you. Treatment rooms offer state-of-the-art care using digital x-ray machines which subject patients to much lower levels of radiation than traditional x-ray machines. They have 3D x-ray technology, which gives a more in-depth view of dental tissues. Patient rooms also have flat screen TVs to allow the Doctors to teach their patients about procedures visually.  When the treatment begins patients are encouraged to get comfy and  watch Netflix or snuggle up with a pillow and blanket while using our wireless headphones to relax with the sounds of your favorite music. These small but powerful details like warm scented towels at the end of your visit set their practice apart.
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    Dr. Jonas and Dr. Stevens met  as undergraduates, over 14 years ago and they have been together ever since.  They opened their practice  in Jacksonville in July 2017. The couple live in Durbin Crossing with their two young sons. Family is very important to them, and they love living and working in northeast Florida and especially enjoy time with their family at the beach.

Dr. Kathleen Stevens Dr. Stevens earned her dental degree from The Ohio State University School of Dentistry, after earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida. She holds professional memberships in the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association and Northeast District Dental Association.
    Throughout her career Dr. Stevens has always strived to further her skills. She has completed several post graduate education courses and has received extensive training in dental implants, cosmetic dentistry and facial esthetics.  Her commitment in continued education has allowed her to provide a wide array of services to her patients while delivering the highest quality of dental care.
    Dr. Stevens and her family enjoy participating in the activities this great city of Jacksonville has to offer. Whether it be a day on the beach or an afternoon football game (go Jaguars!) you can always find her out enjoying time with friends and family.

    Dr. Ashbaugh earned his dental degree from the Ohio State University, after earning his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida. He maintains professional memberships in the American Dental Association, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, Academy of General Dentistry, and the Southern Jacksonville Dental Society. Dr. Ashbaugh has also been awarded the Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry.
    Dr. Ashbaugh takes numerous postgraduate education courses each year and has received extensive training in sedation, occlusion (your bite) and esthetic dentistry, allowing him to incorporate these treatments into his practice so he has a multitude of methods for solving complex dental problems. Most recently, Dr. Ashbaugh has completed a nine month comprehensive dental implant program through the Las Vegas Implant Maxicourse.
    In addition to private practice, Dr. Ashbaugh is an instructor for Smart CE online instructional series for Dental Assistants, Dental Hygienists, and Dentist nationwide. He is also a co-host for a popular dental podcast, Shared Practices, in which he shares his expertise in best practices for running a successful dental office.
    Dr. Ashbaugh is an active participant in the community. He and his wife, Dr. Stevens, live in the area with their two children, Benjamin and Jonathan. In his spare time, he enjoys in-shore and off-shore fishing, wakeboarding, golfing and catching a football game

While comprehensive care with a personal touch is the mission of Dr. Esra Yavuz Weisheit, Veterinarian and owner of Nease Animal Hospital in St. Johns, this is no ordinary practice.  In addition to excellent general care, Nease Animal Hospital offers canine physical therapy, Chinese herbal supplements and acupuncture.  Dr. Esra also specializes in pet rehabilitation, which is a common need as pets age and after surgeries.  As a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT) and Certified Spinal Manual Therapist for pets, Dr. Esra brings a deeper element to the care of her patients.

Have you always known you wanted to become a veterinarian or, did you discover it later in life? I knew when I was 7 that I wanted to work with animals. I grew up taking care of street cats and dogs. During college, I spent a semester in Kenya studying Wildlife Management and that time in Kenya confirmed my passion in veterinary medicine.


Where did you grow up? & Where did you go to school? I  grew up in Turkey and then went to college in New York state and went to veterinary school at Tufts University in Massachusetts.


Is there a story or memory from your youth that helped you decide on your career?
We rescued a street cat who went into labor on a Sunday. She was having a hard time delivering so we had to call for a veterinarian from the phone book and found a veterinarian who agreed to open his practice. She needed a C-section.  I was 10 and got to watch the surgery and helped care for the new born kitten. I was very lucky my mother let me keep mom and the kitten at our house. We found home for the kitten and kept mom.  She was an amazing cat.
Where did you first practice veterinary medicine? I have been practicing since 1997. I practiced in a multi-doctor and corporate practice in Maryland and then opened my own practice in Bel Air, MD. I loved owning my practice and had amazing clients and patients.


What brought you to St. Johns? My husband had been wanting to move to Florida for the last 10 years due to climate. We had travelled to different places in Florida but I fell in love with Saint Augustine and Jacksonville. I loved the beaches and diversity of Jacksonville.


What are some of the ways your practice makes pets and pet owners feel special? We focus on individual care and whole patient care. Prevention is the key. Our focus is to give our patients a positive experience. We take our time to make sure that our patients are comfortable and pampered. We are generous on treats so that our patients are happy to visit us again.

Do you have any special services? We do offer acupuncture, cold therapy laser, and canine physical therapy. Also, pet owners can bring their dogs to utilize the underwater treadmill to keep their pets physical fit. We do offer Chinese herbal supplements, food therapy and alternative medicine. We are an AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) certified veterinary hospital. We strive for high standards of care.


Do you have an office mascot? Coco is our hospital cat. She is very sassy.


What is your favorite aspect of your work? I love the fact that we can offer many different services that help keep our patients happy and healthy. Preventing disease and helping patients to stay healthy with supplements  and alternative medicine. I love it when after acupuncture, herbs and physical therapy, our patients walk again.


What is the most difficult aspect of your work? So many animals need good homes. There are more animals than homes.


Tell us a little about your family.
I am very lucky to have a very supportive and loving husband Gene and my 13 year old son Zackary. I am very excited that my son is going to be testing for third degree black belt.


Do you own any pets yourself? I do have three spoiled cats
(Fearless, Eagle, and Raven) and two dogs Chloe and Humphrey.


How do you relieve stress? Walking on the beach with my family


What is your favorite thing to do in St. Johns? Many things: I love the fact that I can spend outdoors activities with my family : checking out different trails and different beaches with my family and Chloe and Humphrey.

​For more information about Smiles by Glenos
please call 904-79- SMILE (797-6453).
or visit SmilesByGlenos.com 
Offices at 111 Doctors Village Dr, St. Johns
22 St. Johns Medical Park Dr, St. Augustine 

​This month we are getting to know Dr. Jimmy Glenos and Dr.  Craig Hadgis of SMILES BY GLENOS.   In business since the mid 1980s, this well respected St. Augustine Orthodontic practice has a new second office in northern St. Johns off Race Track Road  in Doctor’s Village, beside Memorial Emergency Center.

These board certified orthodontists  focus on creating beautiful, healthy smiles using the most state-of-the-art cost efficient approaches.  Their mission is simple: “Our primary goal is to provide the best possible orthodontic care and experience for all ages.”  

​Where are you from?

Dr. Jimmy Glenos:  I was born and raised in Orlando, attended the University of Florida for my undergraduate studies, earning a Bachelor of Science in Zoology with Honors, and then attended the University of Florida School of Dentistry, receiving a Doctor of Dental Medicine.  I fell in love with St. Augustine when I moved here from Gainesville to practice family dentistry for a year while I awaited the start of my orthodontic residency specialty training at The University of Louisville.

Dr. Craig Hadgis:  I started off as a Michigander, born and raised in Grosse Pointe, Michigan. In the 1970s, my grandparents moved to Flagler Beach. Northeast Florida became a frequent vacation destination during my childhood. I was excited to move to northern Florida, when I was accepted into Jacksonville University School of Orthodontics.  My wife Anne and I are St. Augustine residents and have enjoyed making this area our home.
 
When did you begin practicing orthodontics?
Dr. Glenos:  I began providing specialized orthodontic treatment in St. Augustine area in 1984. After about ten years in St. Johns Medical Park, along US1, we built our "dream office" in the same medical park. 
About two years ago, we opened a second state-of-the-art location in Doctors Village, along Race Track Road.
 
Dr. Hadgis:  After graduating from Jacksonville University School of Orthodontics in 2010, I have been fortunate to have a variety of clinical experiences and have focused on keeping up to date with the latest technologies in the orthodontic field. Dr. Glenos and I have been colleagues for several years. Now that we are in practice together, our goal is to provide exceptional care to patients throughout St. Johns County and many surrounding areas.

Why did you choose this profession? (How did you get your start)?

Dr. Glenos:   Sometimes, I believe it may have been preordained.  When I was fifteen years old, I fell in love with a girl who's first job was as an orthodontic technician. Understandably, at such a young age, it was a relatively brief but passionate relationship.
My junior year in college, I decided to pursue a career in dentistry.  Lo and behold, Karen and I reconnected and started dating again. We were married my senior year of dental school.
I enjoyed practicing family dentistry, but orthodontics was especially appealing because of the important impact one’s smile has on their everyday life. I truly believe that by straightening crowded and rotated teeth and improving the bite and smile, we are, in many cases, changing people's lives. It has to be one of the best jobs in the world!
The only downside is that since Karen has been active in orthodontics longer than I, she sometimes thinks she is "the boss." But that's ok and probably true for most marriages..right?
 
Dr. Hadgis:  My family comes from a dental background. My grandfather was a dental lab technician and my father is a practicing dentist in Michigan. My father is passionate about practicing dentistry and raised my brothers and I to find our own passion in life, so our careers would not feel like “just a job.”
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Solving puzzles and mathematics came easily to me growing up, which is the reason I initially chose to become an engineer. While earning my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering from the University of Michigan, I learned about the connections between medicine, biomedical engineering, biomechanics, and orthopedics. Inspired by these connections and building on my engineering degrees, I chose to specialize in orthodontics in order to help people by making a positive impact in their lives in a visible way. I find that having a master’s degree in biomedical engineering provides me with a unique perspective in evaluating, planning, and carrying out treatment plans in both simple and complex cases.

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What is the most common misunderstanding about orthodontics?

Dr. Glenos:  A common misconception has been to consider orthodontic treatment as an expensive luxury.  Today, orthodontic treatment is a relatively modest investment compared to other things - including dental expenses for crowns, implants or cosmetic dentistry and the benefits of orthodontic corrections are outstanding. Not only in one's appearance but in the health of the dentition as one ages.
Most recently, a new misconception is being promoted by companies offering DIY "do it yourself" orthodontic treatment. Unsupervised tooth movement is dangerous with a high potential risk of damage to the teeth, the bone support (tooth loss), jaw joint issues and failure of any improvement due to relapse. Reports are surfacing that this is happening often and, unfortunately, the patient or parents, end up paying for treatment twice. If they have orthodontic insurance and the benefits were used during the DIY treatment, the patient is stuck with depleted benefits.
 
Dr. Hadgis:  Many people are not aware that to become an orthodontic specialist requires acceptance into an accredited full-time residency program which involves 2-3 additional years of dedicated orthodontic training after dental school. Further, each case requires a thorough analysis by the orthodontic specialist to achieve the best outcome for the patient in terms of a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile.
  
What are some of the greatest successes you have had for patients?

Dr. Glenos:  We see amazing new smiles completed every day. Personally, the most rewarding ones are when the patient first looks in the mirror and the tears of joy begin to flow. Clinically, I am most proud of the cases that have been planned since age 6-7 where we have timed simple procedures that result in the teeth growing in so nice that very little time in appliances is required to make them perfect.
 
Dr. Hadgis:  I’m very pleased that I’ve had the opportunity to help improve so many patients’ health and self-esteem. Further, many patients, both children and adults alike, have reported improved sleep as a result of orthodontic treatment.
 
What sets your offices apart from other orthodontic offices?

Dr. Glenos:  Besides offering the latest orthodontic equipment like digital scanning and ultra-low dose 3D radiography, and the finest office environments, I believe the most valuable attributes are our outstanding team who treat everyone like family, and the fact that every proposed treatment is carefully planned and executed by Board Certified orthodontic specialists.  
 
Dr. Hadgis:  Both Dr. Glenos and I are diplomates of the American Board of Orthodontics. Only 1 in 3 orthodontists take the extra time and effort necessary to achieve this distinction. We are one of the few orthodontic practices in the country offering Insignia which is individualized custom brackets and wires made specifically for each patient from digital 3D oral scans which replace goopy impressions, and from 3D digital x-rays replacing higher radiation film x-rays. We also pride ourselves on offering exceptional customer service from our entire team.
  
What technology is used to determine treatment plans for your patients?

Dr. Glenos:  Complete orthodontic records consist of properly taken digital photos, a 3D digital scan, a digital cephalometric film (enabling us to measure the relationship of the upper and lower jaws to one another and the angulations of the teeth to the jaws) and a digital panoramic x-ray. In some cases where custom designed appliances may be desired, the final occlusion can be planned digitally and viewed on the computer. 
 
Dr. Hadgis:  We stay at the leading edge as technology in the orthodontic field advances rapidly. We offer digital treatment planning with technologies such as Invisalign (custom 3D planned clear aligners) and Insignia (custom braces and wires) to properly align teeth.
 
What do you like to do in your spare time?

Dr. Glenos:  I'm an outdoorsman. I enjoy sportfishing, diving, kiteboarding, water skiing, hunting, and many other outdoor activities. I also enjoy traveling and shopping with "the boss."
 
Dr. Hadgis:  I most enjoy spending time with family and friends. I also enjoy exercising, biking, golfing, snow skiing, and following professional and college sports.

​Who are you and what do you do?  
My name is Mike Cervone.  I’m a Mortgage Broker by day but my passion is family and art.  I try to spend as much time as I can with my family and my art.  

Why do you do what you do? 
I do this because art is a way to escape from one’s daily stress and it is a way to challenge myself to get better each time.  The problem solving and challenges that come with painting can be very frustrating but I chase the feeling I get each time I complete something that I’m proud of. 

What is your background? 
A: My background is in the Financial Services and Mortgage industry.  However, I’ve always tooled around with drawing and sketching.  Three years ago, after watching hundreds of Youtube painting videos, I decided that I would give it a try and use it as a valuable escape after a long day in the office. 
 
What is integral to your work?
What is integral to my art work is an interesting subject, a great reference, and inspiration.  Most people these days don’t have the time to sit hours for a painting so I will generally work from a photograph that I’ve meticulously set up and taken myself.  A lot of times I will spend hours going through paintings from my favorite artists until I see something that inspires me.  I try to capture that in the photo and later in the painting. 

Explain what you do in a way that would help lay 
people understand it. 
In a nutshell, I move paint around on a canvas until I like what I see.  I start by taking a good photo.  I then complete a drawing of that photo and transfer it onto a canvas.  Once my rendering is on the canvas, I’ll work off of the photograph to try and capture the essence and likeness of the individual.  I try to break down the forms (brow ridge, cheek bones, etc.,)  into their general shapes and render those forms in paint, changing the color and value as that particular form turns towards or away from the light.  I work on one form until I am completely satisfied and then move on to the next.  After some time, you’ve got a bunch of forms that end up “clicking” into each other. 

 How has your art changed over time?
I started with landscapes but it didn’t inspire me.  I then moved onto painting people.  I started with taking a photo and painting it in a comic book style (more along the lines of Pop Art).  Once I started studying tutorials from some of my favorite figure painters, I was more drawn to the classical approach to painting.  As I complete each painting, I learn a bit more about the underlying skeletal and muscular structure that is common in all people and this makes, in my opinion, each subsequent painting a bit better than the last. 

What art do you most identify with?
There is quite a bit.  I identify a lot with the Baroque style of art from the 17th and late 18th centuries and tend to be drawn towards the Realism and Romanticism art styles  

What work do you most enjoying doing?
I mostly enjoy painting portraits and people.  Again, there is a satisfaction when you complete a piece of art that in the end, does capture the sitter’s likeness. 

What’s your strongest memory of your childhood?
My strongest memory or memories of childhood was of drawing.  I would spend hours a day drawing from magazines or creating my own characters and most memories I have of childhood generally included a pencil and paper. 

What themes do you pursue?
My common theme is, of course, people.  Since I am only 3 years into oil painting, my goal is to work towards creating some narrative pieces that follow the artistic styles that I identify with.  

What’s your favorite art work or your favorite artist & why? 
 I have many favorite artists and artwork that I love for their own unique styles.  My top favorites would include William Adolphe Bouguereau, John Singer Sargent, Caravaggio, and Velazquez. 

​JimKaneOriginalArt.com
www.facebook.com/JimKaneOriginalArt
JimKaneOriginalArt@yahoo.com

Who are you and what do you do? 
I am a professional firefighter / paramedic with the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department.  I have been with the fire department for 27 years.  As a Captain of a Rescue unit in a major metropolitan fire department you may be able to imagine the daily stresses involved.  Building, painting, designing and creating have always been a stress outlet for me, then I realized some of the things I made, mainly my paintings became more than just stress relief, they became a passion and I began painting purely for the sake of the art.
  
Why do you do what you do? 
My artwork is a personal endeavor. I find it very cathartic and it came to somewhat of a surprise to me that others are interested in what I have created. With retirement approaching, I have been considering a new career as a starving artist! 

What is your background? 
I grew up in Massachusetts. I came to Jacksonville with the Navy, then after four years, I left the Navy and entered the fire service. After 9/11, I went back into the Navy as a reservist for six years while continuing my career in fire service. I have always had a passion for art but never thought of myself as an artist until recently.

What is integral to your work?
I find myself most creative when I am listening to music.  There are times when I will go out to spend time in my shop and before I know it I have been working for several hours and there is a painting I had never thought about sitting before me.  To be honest sometimes I have no idea where it comes from.

Explain what you do in a way that would help lay people understand it.  
The current focus of my artwork is Resin Art.  Resin Art uses Epoxy Resins, paints, dyes, inks and pigments mixed into the resin to be pored over a canvas.  This type of art is commonly referred to as flow art or a flowable medium.  I take great pride in the fact that build all my own canvases (also referred to as panels). This ensures that each panel that leaves my studio is made with the very best products and built to my exacting specifications.  The panels are made from Lauan plywood and birch substrate.  I quarter round all the edges, sand, patch, re-sand then prime. I end up with a 2” thick gallery wrapped canvas. The resin flows over the sides smoothly and carries to image over the sides. The substrate provides an area to anchor hanging hardware. 

What is unique about epoxy resin is the curing time, as soon as the resin is mixed with a catalyst it begins the curing process.  This process can take as little as 5-7 minutes and as long as an hour depending on the type of resin being used.  Once the resin starts to “set up” the resin can no longer be manipulated.  At that point the painting needs to be covered to prevent contamination and the epoxy will need a minimum of 12 hours to cure to a point that it can be worked with again.  If another layer is desired, if there is any contamination or flaws on the surface, the top layer will need to be sanded to allow the new layer something to attach to.  Most of my paintings end up with 4-7 layers of resin.  

How has your art changed over time? I hope that my artwork has improved.  In retrospect I see that I have always attempted to master certain techniques and then move on to the next interest.  This can be a double edge sword, allowing for a lot of different experiences but never pushing the boundaries of the art itself.  Resin Art has kept my attention and I feel myself entertaining more challenging aspects of the art.

What art do you most identify with?  With a wide array of interests, it is hard to identify one specific art form.  I love working with different mediums whether its woodworking, painting, stone work, metal work, or just pencil and paper there is so much I would like to experience and create.  I like the concept of mixing and matching mediums.

What is your strongest memory of your childhood?  I am the youngest of five children.  As with most families each child has specific bonds with his or her parents.  My father was a professional musician and my siblings all played instruments growing up.  By the time I was born, let’s just say the gene pool was I bit low in the music department.  My bond with my father tended to be more with hands-on things.  My father taught me to do most things with my own hands, from working on cars to building houses.  I have discovered that one of the things he taught me is that one’s ability to do things is only limited by your willingness to chance screwing it up.  There are only two possible outcomes from trying something new:  Success or the opportunity to learn from your mistakes.  Both outcomes are positives.

​Who are you and what do you do? 
I am an eight year breast cancer survivor, a mother of a teenager and a wife of a loving husband.
I’m a home maker the mother to our daughter and a permanent make up artist. 

Why do you do what you do?  
I do permanent make up because it something that came into my life when I had breast cancer. I was overwhelmed with joy and how my life has changed and having an art background for over 50 years it was as if I was lead down the path. *My business works by appointment only in a studio on Market st in Palencia. 

What’s your background?  
I’ve been painting since I am eight years old. Attended The School of Visual Arts in New York and then moved onto The Fashion Institute of Technology. 

What’s integral to your work?
Giving back to people in need and enjoying making a simple change in their lives that brings so much joy. 

Explain what you do in a way that would help lay people understand it.
I use my artistic experience to apply Permanent Makeup to enhance eyebrows, eyeliner, lips and Areolas and scars with several different techniques 

How has your art changed over time
My art hasn’t changed over time however, my canvas has. I’ve always enjoyed a blank canvas to paint. Ive painted many murals in restaurants, faux painted furniture, children’s murals, and even had my own 3D cake design company. Window design, jewelry design, office and floor design were also part of my past. 

What art do you most identify with? Anything with color and movement and shadows seems to catch my eye the most. I can get absorbed into this art and get lost inside it 

What work do you most enjoying doing?
That’s s hard question because anything I’ve already find in the past has a hold on me still and I never really left any if my art behind as opposed to gathering more skills and applying them. 

What’s your strongest memory of your childhood?
Growing up in a very large family of all 5 brothers, the memories are extensive but I would have to say Christmas was always the most memorable and fun and still is because we still carry on the tradition with the family being so much larger from many years ago
Also Tuesday nights when I would go for my weekly art lesson in the evening and miss family dinner but come home with an amazing painting to share with my mom and dad who were so proud of my work. 

What themes do you pursue?
I wouldn’t say I pursue a theme more so than something that strikes my eye. It could range from a zoomed in flower to a scenic view to a simple painting of a high heeled shoe with fantastic color and shadow. 

What’s your favorite art work or your favorite artist & why? 
Any of Edgar Degas ballerina paintings and sculptures.  I always wanted to dance as a child and fortunately I chose art because my daughter is a ballerina and dances so I have the best of them both! I hope to one day to be the proud owner of his sculpture work. 

Hello! Just a little bit about your friendly neighborhood photographer! 
I LOVE interacting with all the different people I get to meet with this profession.  From that first cup of coffee at our meet and greet, through our final image selection, I consider everyone a friend by the time we say our "until next times". 

I grew up in a VERY small town in Missouri. Roaming through the woods and fields, eating sun warmed wild huckleberries, reading on a bed of moss in the early morning sunshine; this was how I spent most of my days, when not doing farm chores. (Milking cows, weeding my Dad’s garden, and slopping pigs just doesn’t sound as nice as wandering through the meadows, right?)

I attended Missouri University in Columbia, studying Early Childhood Education/Child Psychology, and enjoying photography classes as my elective “fun.” However, I decided about halfway into my college career, that I wanted to support my country, so I joined the Air force. 
While serving in Japan, I met my amazing husband (and sometimes my assistant/second shooter). 6 months later, we were married in a whirlwind ceremony. 25 years later… still married, and he’s still very much my best friend.

We have 2 fabulous children together, Jessi, who is 24, and attending college in Illinois for veterinary medicine, and Jason who is currently a senior in high school. Our non-human children consist of 2 super energetic, 70 lb boxer labs, and 2 overly demanding kitties.

Outside is where I'm the happiest... and outside is where the magic happens. People come alive, are more likely to be themselves, not feeling like they need to pose “perfectly.” I am all about the “imperfect” pose… that picture BETWEEN poses – where the soul is bright. Natural world, natural “poses,” natural you. It’s how I roll.  

As a “retired” preschool teacher of 17 years, I have infinite amounts of love, patience, and creativity…. all needed for this sometimes unpredictable, and always delightful livelihood. Well, that’s it, in a tiny little nutshell! So when you see this barefoot photographer getting her groove on photographing? Stop and say a quick howdy - new friends are my favorite. ;)
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To view the full spectrum of Mindy's work please visit her website at www.natureschildphotography.com

Have you ever wondered how Hollywood transforms regular people into creatures like Jennifer Lawrence’s character Mystique in X-men? Often times the effect is created with the art form of body painting. As evidenced by the work of featured artist Linda Schrenk, Body painting is no longer reserved for face painting or highly stylized films.. 

Body painting is an unexpected medium for fine art which has gained popularity in recent years locally with a co-op of artists, models and photographers, B.A.R.E. or Body Art Refined Exhibition, who specialize in body art, painting and special effects.  B.A.R.E. was spearheaded by artist Whitney Myers.
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Artists paint the entire body in great detail, often using a concept to develop a rough sketch which is then painted.  You may have seen some of the body art on display on models at the monthly Jax Art Walk.  St. Johns Magazine and photographer Mindy Kerr of Nature’s Child Photography had the privilege of observing the entire process as artist Linda Schrenk painted her model during an eight hour paint jam held at photography studio, Studio 3E in Jacksonville.  The title of Linda’s piece was Coy and Geisha.  In the final moments, the art comes alive in shocking beauty, reflecting the artist’s understanding of color, her skill and patience.

Linda Schrenk is a  wife to Dave Schrenk (31 years), mom of 5 kids (Alecia 31, Katie 25, Hannah 23, David 22 and Aaron 17). She is a face and body artist and the owner of Amazing Face Painting by Linda. She works with the medium of cosmetic grade face and body paint and she loves to paint people.

Why do you do what you do? 
I love face and body art. I love transforming the human body into a colorful canvas of living art. It's empowering to the model to be clothed in art.

How do you work? 
I pre-plan out a design idea by sketching it out in a notebook. I research a subject and search for images online, in nature, clothing patterns, etc. Anything that inspires an idea. For commissioned pieces I plan a design with the model or photographer. 

What’s your background?  
I've always been an artist. My earliest memories are from when I was 4 and drawing horses. I was really into comic books a as a teen and started drawing people from the characters. I was accepted into a commercial graphics program in High School. I then went to Villa Maria College in Buffalo, NY for their Commercial Graphics Program. Like many artists, I was searching for my place in the world and dropped out.

I married my husband Dave Schrenk and became a Navy Wife. We've been married 31 years and have 5 children. I didn't draw or paint and my art was almost forgotten. Thirteen years ago I was teaching art in a homeschool/after school program in trade so my son could have dance lessons. One of my student's mom gave me the opportunity to face paint for her at an event. I fell in love with the medium.  What could be better than to hang out with kids and be creative! I face painted as a hobby on and off till 2008. In 2007 my husband was retired from the Navy and by 2008 he became a full time college student and we needed a 2nd income. I decided to turn my hobby into a business. This was the birth of Amazing Face Painting by Linda. This has grown into a full entertainment company with a team of face painters, Balloon twisters, clowns,.magicians, and other entertainment services to Jacksonville and surrounding areas. I started body painting in 2014 from the encouragement of my friend and fellow body artist Whitney Myers. She created a body paint jam for artists to learn and explore this new and growing medium.

Explain what you do in a way that would help lay people understand it.
I paint people. To some they may look 'naked' but they are clothed in art. Body Painting has a bad Rep. People associate it with the porn industry but as a body artist I work very hard to dismiss this stigma. I'm the person that turns my head when a scene gets to steamy in a movie. But the body is a beautiful work of art and I like to showcase it. Being painted is very freeing. The models are not naked. My goal is to never sexualize the imagery but to enhance the beauty.

Things to know. It can take 5-8 hours to paint a body head to toe. The hardest part is time management. Unlike canvas, your model needs breaks, must eat and drink, etc. You can walk away from a canvas and come back a few days later and work on it some more. You can't do this when painting a body. There's usually a deadline for a show or photoshoot. So, you plot and plan out how best to complete everything you want to accomplish before your deadline.

How has your art changed over time
I started as a pencil and ink artist and had no concept of color theory. Body Painting has encouraged me to expand as an artist and learn other mediums like canvas.

What art do you most identify with?
I love nature and realism.

What work do you most enjoying doing?
My favorite form of body painting is prenatal designs. The pregnant body growing life is a beautiful thing. I love planning out a design the perfectly matches a family.

Tell us a little about how you give back by helping sick children? 
I paint immobilization cancer treatment masks for the kids at UF Health Proton Therapy. 
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What’s your favorite art work or your favorite artist & why? 
I love Monet because of a coffee table book in my home but many of my favorite artists are other face and body painters that have pioneered the art form. Scott and Madelyn Greco(5 time world bodypainting champions) and Tera Bakker for her realism.

    A healthy, attractive smile is an important part of our lives, regardless of age. It impacts our self-esteem, confidence, and overall well-being, as well as our personal, social, and professional relationships. Dr. Christopher Henry, of Henry Advanced Orthodontics believes that giving someone confidence in their smile is the most rewarding part of his job.  Dr. Henry says “No one can take that away from them and they have one less obstacle standing in the way to achieve their life’s dreams.  To me that is powerful...it’s the gift that keeps giving and priceless when compared to the investment”.

    In 2017, Dr. Henry, relocated to St. Johns County, and took over the Orthodontist practice of Braces by Dr. Liz.  He moved here after 12 years of building a successful orthodontist practice in Alaska.  He chose St. Johns County to be closer to his family and quite honestly, to thaw out a little from the cold.  When you meet him it’s easy to see that his laid-back style is a perfect fit for the way we live and play in St. Augustine.

    His practice specializes in superior care and is known for being able to handle the toughest cases.   

    The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than 7 years old. Why age 7? At this stage of development, it’s an ideal time to evaluate many possible dental concerns.  Their growth pattern can be altered to provide a balanced bite, resolve crowding, expand the upper jaw, and diagnosis congenially missing teeth.  The majority of patients seen at this age will not require any treatment, however early treatment can be in a patient’s best interests if their problem is one that could become more serious over time if left untreated.  For parents, it’s not always easy to know if your child needs orthodontic treatment.  Dr. Henry’s goal is that you have a clear understanding of your specific needs, what your treatment will consist of and how long it will take.

    While it is ideal to see an Orthodontist at an early age, healthy teeth can be moved successfully at any age. Orthodontic treatment creates a better bite, making teeth fit better, and decreases the risk of future dental problems regardless of age.  And thanks to the variety of options used by orthodontists, teens and adults may be able to inconspicuously achieve the great smile they want.
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    New patient exams are always free and Dr. Henry and his staff are looking forward to discussing all of your treatment options to provide you with your Trademark Smile.     

What is the secret to a long life? Well, some would say happy memories, connections, gratitude and the beautiful, strong fighting spirit of survivors who never give up but instead turn around and use their experience to help others.
    Bonnie and Frank Dvoravic, Owners of Rivertown Fine Wine & Spirits know first hand that life is precious.  Bonnie is a 12-year survivor of pancreatic cancer, and she and Frank are passionate about increasing awareness and raising money to help others beat this terrible disease.
    For the past two years, Frank and Bonnie have raised funds for PANCAN through auctions at their store on County Road 210 West in St. Johns, (near Publix).  To date, they have raised over $34,000 for research.  They are often blown away and truly grateful to our community for their support.
    In October, they will feature an auction of special items with one-hundred percent of proceeds going to PANCAN. Some of the items include a Fireball ice chest, Jagermeister ice chest, a Titos cooler and more. Plus, just arrived, a 12-year-old Elijah Craig barrel of bourbon created exclusively for Rivertown (part of the sale of each bottle will go to PANCAN).
    This summer Frank and Bonnie took a journey that led them to Washington DC to advocate for PANCAN, The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.  Along the way, they visited family and friends from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, including Frank’s 96-year-old “Uncle Frank” whom he had not seen in fifty years. His advice for a long life was to take vitamins, baby aspirin, chocolate kisses and two Coca-Colas a day.          
    The experience reminded them how blessed they are to be here enjoying the life they have built, a life that includes a beautiful riverfront home, time spent with their children and grandchildren, and a successful family business.

​When you watch CBS47 and FOX30 Action News Jax in the morning, you quickly notice a difference between their morning news and everyone else’s.  “What you get is a lot more local news instead of fluff,” says morning anchor Phil Amato, who migrated over to Action News Jax from First Coast News a few years ago.  Added long time co-anchor Dawn Lopez, “We understand that mornings are hectic and people want to be informed before they head out the door.  We really focus on local coverage so we don’t waste anyone’s time.”  It’s a faster paced newscast, with reporters spread out all over the area.  “We have more local reporters in the morning because our viewing area is so spread out,” said morning anchor Letisha Bereola.  “Having more reporters gives us an opportunity to cover more stories, especially in St Johns County.”

A large ingredient of that local coverage in the morning is weather and traffic.  In fact, from 4:30am to 9am, it’s every ten minutes.  Action News Jax First Alert Meteorologist Arielle Nixon has been forecasting local weather in the Jacksonville area for over 5 years.  “What makes St Johns County unique is the fact that it’s surrounded by water with the Atlantic Ocean to the East and the St Johns River to the West,” said Arielle Nixon.  “With so much water interacting with land, you have the perfect combination for storms.”

  Being in the “traffic” business for over 14 years clearly gives Derrick Odom an advantage.  Not to mention that he also works part-time for the Florida Department of Transportation.  “I’ve been doing this in one form or another for a long time and nothing is more important than getting you the right information quickly,” he says.
You can catch Arielle, Derrick and the rest of the morning team, weekday mornings from 4:30am to 9am, on CBS47 and FOX30 Action News Jax.

​     Mike Buresh and his family live in St. Johns County.  So, when it comes to forecasting severe weather, he has a vested interest in tracking storms that approach the area.
     Mike and the Action News Jax First Alert Weather Team have been rated “The Most Accurate” for the last 12 years by WeatheRate, a national independent weather rating service.
     Combine a team of certified meteorologists along with the areas most sophisticated weather forecasting equipment (like the First Alert StormTracker pictured above) and you can see why more people in St. Johns County put their trust in Mike and Action News Jax.
     “I’ve always had an interest in weather, ever since I was a kid growing up in rural Iowa,” says Mike.  “As early as the second grade, I was drawing weather maps and constantly looking up at the sky.  I’m definitely a weather-holic!”
     St. Johns County was hit hard in 2016 from Hurricane Matthew and then again in 2017 by Irma.  Now is the time to begin preparing for storm season 2018.  That’s why Action News Jax created the 2018 Hurricane Survival Guide, available for download on ActionNewsJax.com
     Inside the guide, you’ll find the latest evacuation zones, preparing your home before, during and after a storm, emergency contact numbers, creating your own hurricane kit and much more.  Download it, and have it ready as a resource as we get deeper into hurricane season this year.
    In the meantime, you can catch Mike’s forecast on CBS47 and FOX30 Action News Jax, NEWS 104.5 WOKV, ActionNewsJax.com and on the First Alert Weather App.  We’re here to help you stay safe St. Johns County.       

by Debbie Gaylord

     ​It is safe to say the future is bright for Emerson Hurst, a dynamic 17 year-old gymnast from St. Johns. She recently returned from the Junior Olympic Nationals in Ohio where she was one of the top competing gymnasts; placing 2nd on Beam, 3rd on Bars, 3rd on Floor, 11th on Vault and 13th All Around. In June she graduated from Bartram Trail High School and has accepted a full-ride scholarship to Towson University in Baltimore, Maryland where she will compete on the gymnastics team this Fall.  
In this highly competitive sport that requires singular strength, fearlessness, sacrifice and determination how did Emerson reach this level as an athlete?
     The journey began at age 4 when she started classes at Starlight Gymnastics in Mandarin. She was invited to join Starlight’s developmental team program when she was about 8 years old and eventually worked her way up to the highest level team. In 10th grade she began training 25-27 hours each week at the gym taking academic classes through the Florida Virtual School.  
Emerson attributes her success to over a decade of training with coaches Vessy Danailova, Owner of Starlight Gymnastics, and Cheri Gillikin.  “Being part of the team at Starlight is like being part of a family and my coaches are more than just coaches”.  She says they taught her values like loyalty and how to work toward her goals. “I will miss them. But I’ll be back to visit,” she adds with a smile.

​     Coaches are an integral part dealing with challenges as well.  Athletes like Emerson perform double-backflips, full-twisting layouts, aerials on the beam and front flips off the bars. Fear is inevitable but overcoming that fear is a necessity.  A good coach understand this mental aspect of the sport.  When Emerson was first on the Starlight team she was terrified of back tumbling.  Coaches Cheri and husband Gill Gillikin worked with her over and over on a double backflip, first on the tumble track with spotting, then moving to belt spotting until finally she was ready to do it every time without help.  Today Emerson works a double back twisting flip with ease into her floor routine, and a triple series on the beam that includes a front-aerial, back-handspring and back layout combination!  I guess you could say she overcame the mental block.
      This past year early in the season she suffered a shoulder injury caused by the repetitive stress of a difficult move on the bars called a Tkatchev.  Rather than get surgery during the competitive season, she got the go-ahead from her doctor and waited until the season was over.  This meant ignoring the pain, which was no easy task. But she was determined to be able to compete at Nationals and will heal in time to compete at Towson University.  In order to keep up her strength she does intense conditioning exercises at Starlight 2-3 days per week.
    Emerson said she has always maintained her love of gymnastics and is grateful to her Mom who, before every meet would say, “go have fun!”. She says young gymnasts should focus on working hard to improve skills but remember to always do what you love.  When you accomplish a goal, celebrate it!
    Emerson was recently tagged in the top 10 most anticipated incoming college freshman to watch on beam.  She says she is looking forward to college level competition and helping her team.  She will be busy studying sports management with a minor in business. Who knows, Maybe someday she will own her own gymnastics gym just like Starlight!

​What area do you focus on?
 I sell real estate primarily in the Nocatee / Ponte Vedra communities although our Team sells throughout St Johns and Duval County. My wife Jamie and I have lived in the Del Webb Ponte Vedra community in Nocatee for over 9 years. Jamie is also a Realtor.

 Why do you do what you do?
Frankly, I don’t like people telling me what to do. I also don’t like the idea of having a job where no matter how hard I work someone else determines how much I make. I like to succeed or fail based upon my own efforts, creativity and experience. Being a Realtor allows me the opportunity to live my life doing it my way!
​
What is your background?
Right out of college I was an investment analyst for several years, a SVP in commercial lending for a mid-west bank and then I entered the real estate business over 35 years ago.

Was there a certain experience that helped you to become a Realtor?
I have always been fascinated by real estate even before becoming a Realtor. My first experience was in buying farms when I was in my 20’s, then commercial development and investing and most of my Realtor career has been in residential real estate services. Becoming a Realtor was just a natural progression from what I was already doing.

What aspect of your work do you enjoy most?
IMO most successful real estate careers are 20% real estate and 80% problem solving. I like the challenge of trying to make things work out when everything seems to be going in the wrong direction. That is where experience really comes in handy. Most buyers and sellers have no idea how many things go wrong in the typical real estate transaction that they never knew about. That is because agents often work behind the scenes to solve problems or address situations before they become problems.

Did you have a mentor?
I did have a mentor during my early years and I often think about how he impacted my life. He started as a milkman and he died a multi-billionaire. He had many principles he was guided by and he often shared his thoughts by writing them down on a little flash card and giving them to those he was with. Two of his sayings he loved and lived by were also my favorites, “Time Kills Deals” and “Follow a trail of dirt…pick up dirt. Follow a trail of gold…pick up gold”. Anyone in business knows the wisdom of the first saying. The second saying took me a few years to fully appreciate how wise and true it was. Give it some thought!

 How has being a Realtor changed your life?
Over the last 35 years of being a Realtor I have learned many life lessons that have spilled over into my personal life. I can’t think of very many professions where you become such a part of your customer’s life. Sometimes I am a Realtor, advisor, marriage counselor, sounding board, strategic thinker, the hero and the one to blame. I have learned that you never learn anything while you are talking so be a better listener. Don’t procrastinate because “Time Kills Deals”. I have learned to be sympathetic, compassionate, understanding, how to be firm when necessary and flexible when it is called for. It is an honorable profession although there is substantial room for improvement.

What sets you apart?
I am experienced at what I do, well trained, creative, and I believe I work well with others. Those are the qualities that I bring to the table and they have seldom failed me. Our Team is the personification of those principles. In addition, we are strong marketers, we work tirelessly, we help each other whenever there is a need. Our bench is deep, and we have many life experiences that makes us who we are.

 
What is the key ingredient for success in this highly competitive business?
I believe the National Association of Realtors says that the number one thing our customers are looking for is to have confidence that their agent knows how to take them thru the process to their desired goal. It can be a scary undertaking and the stakes are high. For most people selling or buying their home is the biggest transaction they have ever done and certainly one of the most important. Conveying to prospective customers that you are the right choice is the goal. When we go out into the market sometimes it becomes quite obvious that they aren’t looking for the best agent, the most knowledgeable or experienced agent…they are looking for the cheapest agent. Since customers often don’t know what qualities are important to getting the job done they go with commission cutters or people they know but have no real experience, no business success, no marketing, no real familiarity with the marketplace they are working in. These issues have always been a factor in the market especially during the good times. Almost 60% of the agents in business right now have been in the business less than 5 years and many are working for companies who have no formal training programs or experienced management. Convincing potential customers that dealing with a proven, experienced and successful agent, Team or company is the best chance for them to be successful is, and always has been, the real challenge!

What was one of the nicest compliments you have received as a realtor?
 “George you started as our Realtor but ended as our friend”.

 What do you love about St. Johns?
It is exciting to live in a county where there is so much going on. I have never lived in a place quite like it! It is a very positive atmosphere with almost everyone working to make their communities a better place. In Nocatee, where Jamie and I have lived for 9+ years, well over 50% of the land mass is reserved for preserves, greenbelt, community parks and trails. I think that is a great example for others to follow. I think the developers in our county understand they are working in a very special place and want to do their part to make it even better. Economic growth, top rated schools, location, roadways and of course our waterways are all very unique assets that make St Johns County an incredible place!

Are you concerned that new development will jeopardize the beauty of northern St. Johns?
No!  Ask anyone who has witnessed slow development, or no growth and it will be painfully obvious which you would prefer. As long as our county leadership and business community continue to work hand in hand to make St Johns county the best in the state we have a long and exciting future in front of us.

​
Why do you do what you do?
Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant transactions, both financially and emotionally, that a family will make.  I am so honored to offer my experience to ensure that process goes well from start to finish.  The opportunity to meet so many incredible people and to positively influence this important event makes me so grateful to be able to do what I do.

What is your background?
I spent 2 decades in the Financial Industry (Merrill Lynch) prior to becoming a realtor.  My experience servicing a wide variety of customers and clients, managing multiple operations organizations and mitigating risk translated seamlessly to Real Estate.  I apply the same client focus, operational and risk management disciplines one customer and transaction at a time.
 
Was there a certain experience that helped you become a Realtor?
This probably won’t be a surprise, but it was my own experience relocating to the area and buying a home that inspired me to be a Realtor.  My family relocated to Northeast Florida from Toronto and what a change that was!!!  The warm climate was not the only big transition in our lives as I was pregnant with our daughter Cahlie.  We toured over 20 homes in Duval and St. John’s county before making the decision to purchase a home in a new development (16 years ago!) called St. John’s Golf and Country Club (SJGCC).  As fate would have it, our next door neighbor, Bob Bullock was a site agent with SJGCC.  He was the one that encouraged me to obtain my Real Estate license.  Thanks Bob! 

All these years later, I still rely on my experience relocating to Northeast Florida as the basis for every customer I help.  I remember how overwhelming it can be.  Being there for my customers, whenever they need me remains a priority whether buying or selling a home.  They are not in this alone!  Finding or selling a home is a unique experience for each family and my team and I strive to deliver a personalized experience to find the right home or bring the right buyer for every customer.

What aspect of your work do you enjoy the most?
My team and I get to help families with one of the most important transactions they will ever make.  For some, it’s realizing the dream of becoming a home owner.  For others, it is helping them sell their home so they can move on to a new chapter in their lives.  To be part of that experience is such a privilege. 

I love the analytics we have at our disposal.   Leveraging that data, I can discuss with home sellers how the value of their home fits into the current real estate landscape.  I love the marketing we get to do for sellers.  Negotiations are always exciting and I enjoy combining my experience as well as the tools and influence of Watson Realty to give my clients the edge.  

Did you have a mentor?
I have had several pivotal people help me along the way, when I was new I had a business partner, Ruth Stigall, we worked together for a few years until she retired and moved north to be with family. One of my first Brokers, Mary Ann Bongiorno, was also instrumental in helping  me grow into my role as a Real Estate Agent. My Broker for several years, Mark Rosener, was always a great resource, he was recently promoted up to the Regional role and I now have a new Broker, Joe Saber, who is a seasoned veteran and whom I already feel will be a great ally as we continue to grow our team into all it can be. 

How has being a Realtor changed your life?
This job is incredibly challenging, when I take a moment and think back over my career in real estate so far, I am deeply grateful for the success I have found. In every way it is attributable to each customer I have met and helped. For all those customers who trusted in me, I thank you from the bottom of my heart, we worked together and accomplished something! Whether selling or buying, each deal has its own nuances, its own twists and turns, its always exciting and very rewarding both financially and from a personal growth perspective.
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I was here during the most difficult time to sell a house, the real estate market plummeted, short sales and foreclosures were prevalent. I have had the opportunity to help sellers/families steer themselves through challenging situations, coming out the otherside better, whether surviving a short sale or making money on the sale of a home. I have helped buyers get excellent value for home purchases, I have had the pleasure of seeing great profits made that, if not for the downturn in the market, people would never have been able to achieve. I can’t think of another job that would allow me this kind of opportunity.

What is the key ingredient for success?
Treat each customer as you would want to be treated, listen and know their needs, keep an eye on the landscape for innovative ways to sell homes, stay current with regard to inventory and buyer options.

What do you love about St. Johns?
St. Johns county continues to grow and evolve, offering so many options to different tastes. Whether it’s golf course communities, retail, restaurants, wa­ter parks, tennis courts, blue lagoons, quiet houses on quiet streets, the ocean…there is something for everyone here.  It’s where we have proudly called home for the past 16 years and hope to for many more!

by Lauren Henry Rogers
Photos by Mindy Kerr at Nature's Child Photography

​A Jacksonville native, Dr. Mary Ann Kenneson of Blue Water Urology Associates is a board certified urologic surgeon who has become one of the region’s leading experts in urology. Establishing her practice in Northeast Florida has not only been a homecoming, but the embodiment of realized dreams. 

Dr. Kenneson began her medical career as a nurse and worked her way up to a surgeon. “I took the long road around to becoming a urologic surgeon,” jokes Dr. Kenneson, “but I wouldn’t want it any other way.” She first worked as an RN and then completed a Master’s Degree at the University of Florida as a nurse practitioner. It was while working as a nurse practitioner that she realized she wanted to become a surgeon. She was accepted into the University of Kentucky College of Medicine where she served as class president and graduated with honors. Dr. Kenneson completed her surgical residency training at the Ohio State University, spending an additional year on staff concentrating her focus on robotic surgery. 
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Growing up in Jacksonville, she graduated from Bishop Kenny High School and though school took her away, it was always her intent to return home. The road may have been winding, but Dr. Kenneson was laser focused on opening her office in Jacksonville, Florida where everything began. With family being the major force drawing her in, (her mother, brother and sister reside here), it has also been what keeps her here. Dr. Kenneson reminisces, “Before I moved back to Jacksonville, I used to laugh talking about a five year plan to get the entire family to join me in Florida once my surgical residency was complete.” Since relocating to Florida, both of her adult children have joined her in the Jacksonville area helping to fulfill this plan as she imagined. Dr. Kenneson remains strongly devoted to her family, and her practice, where she is beloved by her patients for her exceptional bedside manner and individualized treatment plans.

​Please tell us a little about yourself.
I am a board certified urologic physician and surgeon. I treat all urologic diseases on both men and women. I am specifically trained in robotic assisted laparoscopic surgery, which usually helps decrease postoperative pain, bleeding, and length of hospital stay for patients. 



With such a broad background in medicine, how did you get into Urology?
A lot of people ask me, being female, how did I get into urology? The truth is, I kind of fell into it, but I also fell in love with it. For me, urology has been a field that allows me to continue using my strong medical background while allowing me to operate. It really is the perfect match for me. 

​What is your background?
I started my career as a two-year nurse before going back to school for a bachelor’s degree in nursing. I then continued my journey as a nurse practitioner with a master’s degree in nursing. It was while working in this physician extender role where I realized my love of surgery. This led me to attend medical school and, as they say, the rest is history. 

Was there a certain experience as a young person that led you to become a doctor? Please tell the story.
I’ve always been a “hands on” type of person and was drawn to medicine from an early age. The ability to make a lasting impact in people’s lives for the better captivated me. Getting the exposure to performing procedures as a nurse practitioner and the increased interaction with the doctors and surgeons helped me discover what I was really meant to do: become a doctor, and more importantly, a surgeon. 

What aspect of your work do you enjoy most?
I love the relationships I have with my patients. I truly get as much from them as they get from me. The interaction I have now with my patients as a doctor continues to make me dedicated and compassionate about this field.

Did you/do you have a mentor?
There was a urologic surgeon when I was working as a nurse practitioner at the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky who inspired me. I just loved his interaction with his patients and he was an awesome surgeon and an all around great person. He was a great mentor and I have always appreciated that. 

How does being a Doctor change your life?
The responsibility can be unimaginably sobering and at the same time extremely rewarding.

What are the newest/best treatments for women’s health today?
We have just introduced the Mona Lisa Touch as an addition to the therapies provided at our office and I think it’s going to be a game changer for women’s health. The Mona Lisa Touch is an innovative, clinically proven, minimally invasive laser treatment that improves pelvic health. In the past we had to rely on hormonal therapy. Now we have an exciting alternative without the associated risk. It is exciting for women’s health as a whole and we’re already seeing phenomenal results. 
 
What sets your practice apart?
I think my communication skills with patients, really being able to listen and understand what’s wrong, sets me apart from the rest. I think oftentimes, as physicians, we get so busy that we really don’t stop to listen, and I make that a huge part of my practice, listening, so that I can actually help with the problems that are bothering the patients. I also credit my outstanding medical team at Blue Water Urology Associates for being so friendly and professional to our patients and for helping to provide advanced care to the men and women of Northeast Florida. As a whole, we seek to work together with our patients and provide exceptional care from the minute they enter our door and I believe this also sets us apart.

What is your favorite activity when you are not working? Do you have any hobbies?
I like anything outdoors; gardening, fishing, boating, and watching Jags games, you name it! I also love spending time with my family and friends and playing with my grandson. It has become a tradition to host Sunday night dinners and everyone comes over for a day of grilling out, laughing and enjoying time together. 

What is your favorite place or thing to do in our community?
My favorite place is the Fernandina Beach/Amelia Island area, exploring the shops on Center Street downtown, listening to music at the Green Turtle, and trying every pizza spot available, but my favorite thing to do is spend time fishing offshore, hence the name Blue Water Urology Associates.  

*For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call #904.644.8353 or visit Dr. Kenneson’s website, bluewaterurology.com or find her on Facebook by searching Blue Water Urology Associates today. 

​How many pets do you have?  Why did you choose that specific type of breed or type?
We have a quarterhorse named Copper, a golden retriever named Sunny  and 2 shih-tzus (Izzy & Fitzie), 3 cats (Pepper, Barnaby & Charlotte), a lion headed rabbit (Nala), and a hamster (Alvin).  I have always loved golden retrievers because of their amazing dispositions and I wanted a dog that I could take to schools, serve as a mascot for our hospital and be involved with our Vets N Training program.  We consider Sunny a “Therapy” dog, as she offers smiles to people and pets here at PRF.

Why are they part of the family? 
Our pets have always been an intricate part of our family as we share love and joy with them and because of them.  And our firm belief that God put animals on the earth for our use and in our care, gives us a heartfelt dedication to our fury friends.

How does having pets make the family stronger, happier?
Our firm belief that God our creator put animals on the earth for man to utilize and to care for, gives us a feeling of dedication and responsibility to look after them.   Our children learn a great deal from taking care of our pets, and understanding the root foundations of life and love from our dear friends. 

What does having a pet teach children? 
Having a pet teaches children responsibility in their care, and how to offer unconditional love.  

What is the funniest family pet story from your life or practice?
Izzy is the youngest dog in the family and she has a very mischievous and bubbly personality.  She is always getting into trouble but she gets away with it because she is so darn cute.  One of her favorite things to do is play chase outside.  One day, while my son was walking the dogs, her leash slipped out of Gavin's hands after she saw a cat dart into the woods.  She ran directly into the thick marshy woods, dragging her leash behind, all the while leaping over the brush like a deer.  Brad, who was dressed for work, proceeded to follow her through the woods. She did not respond to her name although she would look back at him intermittently with a devilish look.  Eventually he came to a neighbors back yard and had lost sight of her.  When he got back to the house to regroup, he found her hanging out on the back porch with a big smile on her face safe and sound and ready for another game of chase!

​A  little background on Team Kaprelian. 

Kasia and Mark (Team Kaprelian) are real estate professionals and Broker Associates at Watson Realty Corp. with 35 years of combined experience.  They specialize in new construction and marketing existing homes in St Johns county.  While helping buyers and sellers find their dream home is the main focus, Team Kaprelian also incorporates a dynamic background in land development and home flipping to complement their knowledge and best serve their customers.

It's been a few years since our community has caught up with you.  What has changed since then? 

Other than getting a few years older, not much.  We have slowed down our home flips and land development, focusing almost exclusively now on selling existing homes.
 
Do you have any new projects on the horizon?

As real estate broker license holders and entrepreneurs, we are always looking for ways to grow and be creative with our business.   We’ve always been attracted to the idea of opening up our own real estate office.  Watson Realty has proven to be a quality real estate brokerage firm allowing us the ability to focus solely on our customers and not worrying about running an office at the same time.  You can be sure that if we see a new real estate project that interests/grabs us, but will not take up too much of our free time, we will not shy from taking it on, it’s in our blood.  

As a small team you have a unique approach to helping people buy and sell homes - What are some of the ways you best serve your clients?
We have been working successfully side by side for almost 2 decades now and more importantly, we still enjoy it!  Our skill sets and expertise have very little overlap.  There are so many moving parts in real estate that we do not know how we would be able to properly serve our customers without the two of us.  We often laugh with our customers that by hiring us they get 2 for the price of 1.

Why are you passionate about Real Estate?

We have asked ourselves why we are so passionate about real estate.  We have touched almost every aspect of it, yet we still can’t get enough, from home flipping, to home and commercial investing, to being property landlords, to developing lots and of course to working with our customers buying and selling homes.  We haven’t lost one bit of our passion.  Just think about the ability to share in the emotion of a home buyer closing on their home for the first time, what do they say,  “priceless.”

You have developed a strong partnership with Lennar Homes.  Can you tell us a little about this?

We do have good relationships with many of the local home builders including DR Horton, Emerald Homes, Mattamy Homes, KB Home, David Weekley Homes, ICI Homes, Providence Homes, CalAtlantic Homes (now part of Lennar), Cottage Home Company, Arthur Rutenberg Homes, CornerStone Homes and Lennar.
​
Each and every home builder brings something positive to the table.  There will always be areas each builder could still improve on, the same could be said about all of us I guess.  It is important to fully understand each and every home builder’s strengths and weaknesses.  The best outcome in any real estate transaction is one that benefits all parties, so working closely with each builder and especially their site agents is critical.

​Now  back to your question, why do we like working with Lennar, the short answer is it all starts at the top.

The President:
We not only show our customers Lennar homes, but we also make purchasing decisions for a property investment firm which has recently chosen Lennar as its preferred new construction builder.  We took the time to meet Matt Devereaux, Division President for Lennar.  First he readily accepted our invitation to meet with him.  As you can imagine, someone who hand signs every thank you letter to his customers would be the type of person to openly meet and discuss Lennar products, strategy, and personal philosophy. We also fully realize that if you have a quality person with the proper level of knowledge and experience to lead, then it is likely the rest of the company will follow suit, which in our experience is the case with the Lennar team.

The Products:
Lennar is a value builder, but we want to be very careful how we state that.  In some people’s eyes “value” can mean cheap.  That is exactly opposite of what we think value is.  To us value means you get a very well built, very well upgraded home at an affordable price.  The new construction industry is infamous for advertising low pricing and then showing you model homes with a lot of upgrades, so you end up spending tens of thousands of dollars more than you originally intended to. Lennar has greatly minimized the bait and switch feel of new construction home buying with its Everything Included (EI) philosophy.  Basically what that means is in communities like Palencia our customers do not pay extra for crown molding, quartz counters, 5 inch base boards, screened lanais, paved driveways, paved lanais, led lighting, high tech controls, appliances and the list goes on.  We think it’s a better way of doing business.  Plus Lennar also completes many homes before they are sold (known as spec homes), which lets our customers see exactly what they are buying.  We do like working with other builders as well when it comes to spec homes: our customers know what they are purchasing upfront, no surprises.  But we definitely have to go the extra mile with other builders when it comes to “to-be-built homes” to ensure our customers get what they think they are buying.  This extra effort is especially important not only inside the house on a to-be-built home but it’s also critical with the lot. We never stop saying: you can always remodel a home but you can never change a lot.  What Lennar is not is a custom builder, for that need we would have to bring our customer to another builder.  Custom builders have their niche of course, we couldn’t really classify any custom builder as a value builder, but we do work with buyers who want everything to be exactly as they want it, personalized, that takes a custom builder and that does drive up the homes cost significantly.

The Employees:
Lennar’s philosophy embraces the team approach, customer care specialists, warranty staff, preferred lending personnel and title companies, site agents (sales people who are the customer’s first contact and remain so throughout the process), sales managers working in tandem with site agents and a director of sales and marketing  like Matt Figlesthaler ( see photo) who we know we can count on if we need  assistance in any way as he has gained our trust.
Every time one of our customers signs on the dotted line with a builder, we put our own reputation on the line, so we need to know we have support at the top of the organization should things not turn out perfectly. All builders will make some mistakes, the more homes you build the more likely something may go wrong, it is how it's  fixed that really matters. Homes can be the biggest investment some people ever make, something that important has to be done right.

What are your goals for the upcoming year in Real Estate?

We want to keep expanding our real estate businesses throughout St Johns county, focusing primarily on residential real estate as Broker Associates with Watson Realty Corp. at this time.

We always like to ask our featured businesses this question: What is your favorite thing to do in St. Johns in your free time?

We enjoy riding our bikes together and love dining out with the kids downtown in St Augustine. Kasia really enjoys outdoor trails and Mark loves to play golf (whenever Kasia lets him): Palencia, King & Bear and the Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass are his favorite three. 
Having moved from Cape Cod to Florida 10 years ago now, we find St Augustine, where we live, to be uniquely different than the Cape yet remarkably the same, so it feels like we have never left our roots, it feels like home.

Anything else you would like our readers to know about Team Kaprelian?
We love reading St Johns Magazine!

A smile is often the first thing you see when you look at a person.  Which is why it is important to entrust the health and beauty of your smile to a highly skilled dentist who puts your care first. Dr. Jonas Ashbaugh, Owner of Blue Sky Dental Group, is that kind of dentist and his dedication to his patients is apparent in every detail of his practice.

“Dr. Jonas” opened Blue Sky Dental Group in July 2017. He always knew he wanted to settle down in north Florida with his family and was excited when the opportunity presented itself to open his own practice here.  He studied at the University of Florida and later went on to dental school at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. After graduation he enlisted in the US Army and became a Captain, providing dental care to soldiers and their families.

For Dr. Jonas, one of his greatest joys in life is the look on his patient’s faces when they see their dental work come together. He shared the story of a patient who was born without four teeth.  He required extensive dental work over a period of time, including braces and grafts.  In the end Dr. Jonas was able to pull it all together and give this man a new smile.  He will never forget the day the man saw his smile after completion of all that work.  It literally transformed his face. Dr. Jonas says it was a privilege to serve him.  While not all cases are that dramatic, it is the ability to help people that gives Dr. Jonas his passion for dentistry.

A combination of low stress and high-level technology reflects the philosophy of care at Blue Sky Dental Group. When you enter the office you instantly recognize it as a place where patient care and comfort are highly valued.   From the beautiful modern design of the waiting room, special touches like bottled water and fresh coffee to the courteous and attentive staff who greets you.

Patient rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs where you can watch Netflix, snuggle up with a pillow and blanket while using our wireless headphones to relax with the sounds of your favorite music. The aroma from warm, scented towels provides the perfect ending for your visit.
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Dr. Jonas believes cutting edge technology contributes to a more productive and comfortable dental visit. In well-appointed treatment rooms, Dr. Jonas provides state-of-the-art care using digital x-ray machines which subject patients to much lower levels of radiation than traditional x-ray machines. They also have 3D x-ray technology, which gives us a more in-depth view of dental tissues.