Dr. Kathleen Deckard DVM, is a tenured Veterinarian of 24 years in practice. She has built her career on a foundation of high quality pet medicine, with a special focus on patient care and owner education. Her practice, Pets R Family Veterinary Hospital is designed and operated with these key areas of focus in mind. But it doesn’t stop there. The “Added Value” efforts of Dr. Deckard are pathway drivers in our industry, as she endeavors to influence and propagate the same quality medical focus in the lives of others aspiring to be in our industry, as she provides for her patients. In 2014, Dr. Deckard began to lay the plans for a new state of the art medical practice to be built just a few miles from her home here in Saint Johns County. Dr. Deckard’s dream was that this new facility would be second to none in focus on the total client experience and quality pet medicine. The design was created with pets’ and owners comfort in mind. Her practice focuses on small animals and exotics. There are two lobbies, one for the Hospital medically focused clients, and one with a focus on the services offered such as boarding, grooming, Pups N Play daycare, and spa bathing. The Hospital features a spacious lobby, offering a canine and a feline waiting area with ample seating for up to 20 clients and their pets. The 7 exam rooms feature 2 large dog rooms with lift tables and extra space, and a feline only exam room, which is part of the Gold Standard Feline Certification awarded Pets R Family by the American Association of Feline Practitioners. The hospital lobby is accompanied by a large half round customer service desk, and a separate “Pharmacy Pick Up” desk, offering our 4 person customer service team the ability to meet, greet and assist clients and their wonderful pets.Meanwhile on the Boarding side, an additional lobby with three customer service team members are greeting and caring for the service focused pets coming to our facility. As the design moves to the Hospital Treatment area, the twenty-five person hospital technician team is organized by position. The pharmacy is staffed by 2 full time pharmacy technicians, the lab is managed by a lead lab technician, while each DVM has assigned to them two room technicians for the day, to meet with all clients and manage all treatments. PRF has dedicated drop off technicians focused on those pets left with the practice for the day, who need treatments and work ups. ![]() Our Hospital technicians manage as “traffic controllers” for all details coming and going through the hospital, including all medical pre and post surgery, as well as medical boarders. Dr. Deckard’s two, on-duty, hospital managers are focused on all client contacts, surgery focused details and DVM and hospital team needs. There is a dedicated surgery team of technicians, who are focussed specifically on our two surgical suites, and the CT Scan room to allow our daily surgery DVM to remain with a dedicated team for all surgeries, dentals, CT Scans, Fluoroscopy scans, ultrasounds, and other surgery focused procedures. This Hospital positional design is unique to Pets R Family, and is one with proven results, as designed by Dr. Deckard. When setting a plan for her DVM Team, Dr. Deckard wanted to ensure two key elements. First, she wanted to have a team in place to focus on patient care, while being very involved in client education. Secondly, she wanted to allow a congruent level of DVM care, that allowed clients to have limited need for “my favorite Doctor”, as they are supplied with the same high level of medical care across the team. Dr. Deckard works diligently to keep all of her Team up to date and on the same page when it comes to all medical protocols, products to be used, most effective drugs and treatments, and client and patient care techniques. Our medical DVM leaders at PRF are constantly on the leading edge of the most up to date medical treatments, drugs and procedures available in the industry. ![]() The amazing passion of Dr. Kathleen Deckard is not only for high quality pet medicine and the client experience. She also recognizes the real need for her industry that is in a very high DVM attrition rate, with a huge influx of new pet owners. Dr. Deckard has always had a strong desire to share with others the opportunity that this industry brings in career. She has designed a program specific to Pets R Family called “Vets N Training”. This program is for young students, ages 6-12, who have a desire to see what it is like to work in the Veterinary Industry. The classes take place every Tuesday after school at the PRF practice. Classes vary from “Bandaging and First Aid” to “Parasites and Vaccines”, but all curriculum is written and designed by Dr. Deckard and her daughter, Abigail Deckard. The goal of this teaching of young students is to grow the desire and understanding of the industry for application in studies and focus as the students move toward High School and College course structure. To date, Vets N Training has taught and guided hundreds of students through the program. The school system in Saint Johns County is known for it’s leading edge “Academy” focus at the High School level. In addition to many other professional focused academies, the newest academy to have opened just a few years ago, is the Academy of Veterinary Medicine at Beachside High School, which is the only Veterinary focused Academy in the country. Dr. Deckard was instrumental in lobbying for this Academy to begin while still in the ideation stages. She now serves on the academy’s Board of Directors as a voting member and supporting curriculum professional. In addition, Dr. Deckard has hired several of the Academies students to begin their industry work at Pets R Family, and has approved many other interning students who are beginning their hands on experience in the industry where they hope to dedicate their careers. Certainly training, guiding and directing this age group will be a catalyst to feeding undergrad and postgrad focus in the veterinary field of study. ![]() Dr. Deckard recognized that there are many outside the veterinary industry who have the desire, drive and passion to work in it, but have never had the opportunity to submerse themselves into a veterinary practice setting. Our military branches are full of individuals who have served their country for a number of years, and are then preparing to leave that career and move into civilian life. Dr. Deckard was instrumental in approving and managing the ramp up of the “SkillBridge” program with the United States Military, at our practice. Pets R Family is the first and currently the only Veterinary Practice approved by all branches of the Military to administer training to personnel preparing to retire from their military service and enter a professional position in the field of veterinary medicine. Pets R Family was approved by the US Military branches in 2022, and has 4 current military members actively being trained at the PRF Practice, with 4 prior graduates completing the approved training program. Each candidate receives an interview at the conclusion of their training to potentially be hired to become a full-time employee at Pets R Family as their first position in the industry. Dr. Deckard is involved day to day with the training protocols, scheduling and ongoing medical input for these candidates.She has stated that these are some of the most passionate, determined and results driven people she has ever had the opportunity to work alongside. Dr. Deckard has not only had an amazing impact on her local community with her passionate focus on quality pet medicine and client care, but she has also continued to focus on the future of the veterinary industry. Her desire to see professionals trained and prepared for a career in the field she has loved for over 24 years, has led her to design pathways for entry, and impact those with interest. Dr. Kathleen Deckard is an innovator in an industry built on new ideas, with a fresh outlook on bringing dedicated professionals to it.
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Daniel serves as an invaluable resource to an average 5,000 children and families each year.
The 139-year-old nonprofit was a life-changing resource for Victoria, who initially dropped out of high school after leaving an unhealthy home environment. Yet Victoria was determined to change her life – paying rent at her friend’s house and starting school again. She was poised to graduate on time, but worried about what to do when school ended. Fortunately, her social worker introduced her to Project Prepare, Daniel’s nationally recognized independent living program. She secured a safe, low-cost place to stay in the agency’s Independent Living Village and learned independent living and job preparatory skills. “Project Prepare was a lifesaver for me,” said Victoria, who is now a successful realtor, wife, and mother of three. “The staff there instilled a lot of great qualities in me that I still use to this day.” This program is one of many Daniel provides to help improve the odds for local children and families. The nonprofit is Florida’s oldest child-service agency, assisting an average of 5,000 children and families annually. Daniel’s professional team connects hundreds of children with foster and adoptive homes each year. The agency is also a leader in child abuse prevention, strengthening at-risk families and safely reunifying families who’ve experienced previous challenges. Yet Daniel is perhaps best known for its truly unique residential treatment center on Belfort Road where youth with the most serious emotional and behavioral issues live short term. Daniel’s team provides intensive individual, group/family therapy, psychiatric and behavioral care, as well as academic and recreational services, to help children and teens find new ways to thrive by overcoming traumas they’ve experienced. “When it comes to local children in crisis on any level, Daniel has always been there,” said Lesley Wells, Daniel’s CEO and president. “And, with the continued help of generous donors and partners, we’ll be able to continue this vital support well into the future.” For more information about how you can help the children and families Daniel serves through donations or corporate sponsorships, please visit danielkids.org or call 904-296-1055 ext 1033. Your Pets Wellness on Wheels!The idea for HelloVet, a high quality mobile veterinary service, first came to Dr. Erika Pitkat and her husband Frank during the pandemic. She explains how during that time they recognized people were concerned about dropping their pets off without their owners at brick and mortar veterinary hospitals. HelloVet opened in July of 2021 offering a solution: an at-home veterinary experience to relieve pet owners’ fears and create less stress for the animals themselves. But even post-pandemic, the fact remains that many cats and dogs get panicked by riding in the car or visiting the vet at the office, and owners are thrilled by the idea that they can have HelloVet come to them. Busy parents with children, disabled and elderly people also benefit from the convenience of having their pets cared for at home. “Overall, people have been both receptive and appreciative to have less stressful vet visits in the comfort of their own home,” says Dr. Pitkat. What Services Are Offered? The HelloVet mobile clinic is a state-of-the-art exam space where dogs and cats are treated by a professional staff and Veterinarian without ever having to leave home. With a hybrid approach, dogs and cats can also be seen inside the home if a visit to the mobile clinic is too stressful. This is especially beneficial to our feline friends. HelloVet offers a wide range of in-home services including wellness and sick exams, vaccinations, laboratory testing, allergy testing, microchipping, dermatology, nutrition, and pharmacy delivery services as well as superior hospice and end-of-life care. They also offer specialty services such as Cold Laser Therapy, which assists with wound healing, osteoarthritis, spinal injuries, and skin infections. Tele-health visits are also available after a veterinary-client-patient relationship has been established. Multi-pet appointments are also available. The goal is to accommodate each client’s needs with top-notch care for their furry companions. If your pet needs emergency services, advanced surgeries, dental cleanings or hospitalization, HelloVet has partnered with Pet Urgent Response And Emergency, Elite Veterinary Surgery of Florida and San Jose Beauclerc Animal Hospital. The process is fully integrated and guided by HelloVet’s staff so that patients may receive the care they need when they need it. HelloVet also partners with a certified dog trainer, pet sitting services, and an in home groomer. What Happens At An Appointment? First, clients may call or go online at www.hellovetjax.com and complete their registration. The process is remote but personalized. “We are not corporate and proud of it!” says Dr. Pitkat. The receptionist then contacts the owner via email, phone or text to determine what type of appointment is needed, and in what area of Jacksonville / St Johns County the client resides. The appointment is scheduled based on availability of both the owner and area of town HelloVet is operating. For the actual visit, Dr. Pitkat says they are flexible. When the mobile clinic arrives, the client has the choice to either bring their pet out to the van, or Dr. Pitkat and her team will go into the home with all diagnostic equipment. Dr. Pitkat says the focus is always to make the pet more comfortable during what could be a stressful experience. In every instance, their dedicated and compassionate staff is always ready to serve the client. Based on feedback from happy clients, HelloVet Pet Care At Home has already made a difference in countless pets' lives and their owners' lives. Dr. Pitkat says she loves to see the joy on their faces when they arrive at a client’s home to provide quality veterinary care without the usual stresses of transport, time, and energy. HelloVet hopes to grow in the future with a few more vans on the road in the next few years, as well as a separate specialty van for technician services such as vaccine administration, injections for allergies etc, fluid administration , nail trimming and basic grooming.
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I always knew that achieving my degree in Veterinary Medicine and returning to my home to practice it to the best of my ability for the people I know and love, was my life’s dream. |
Dr. Deckard shared her thoughts on her dream with us, and encapsulated it this way. “I always knew that achieving my degree in Veterinary Medicine and returning to my home to practice it to the best of my ability for the people I know and love, was my life’s dream. And to be able to achieve that in my own family owned and operated company, where my children and husband work alongside me, is beyond what I ever could have truly imagined. My hope as we continue to grow in serving our community in pet and client care, is that we never lose sight of the key tenets in our foundation of approaching each person and pet with love, care and compassion. And if we achieve that each day, then we are truly, living my life’s dream.” Dr. Deckard also shared that her daughter, Abigail Deckard, is also on track to follow in her mothers’ footsteps and become a Veterinarian, one day working alongside her.
Not often in life are we able to achieve all the things we wished we could do. And quite often, life finds a way to steer us in other directions and into other places than we expected. However, this local, hometown lady, has found a way to stay on course, achieve her life goals and bring them home so that we all can benefit from her talents in pet care and in the human care.
as a photographer?
I started as an actual BUSINESS (license, insurance, the works) when I moved down here from Missouri in October of 2014. I had always had a camera around my neck BEFORE that, but in October, all the teaching jobs are FILLED, and no one needs a substitute yet, either. :D Rather than mope around on the couch, I decided to chase my other passion…photography – and I still get to work with kids! <3
What has been your biggest challenge as a small business owner?
Back end work. Keeping up with all the permits, licensing, insurance, advertising…I do it, of course, but I’d MUCH rather be creating art. :D
What is nature's child photography
known for in our community?
Gosh. I would LIKE to say it’s my amazing personality and bodacious body…BUT I’m going to go with my ability to capture your genuine selves, timeless non-fad artwork, quality heirloom prints, albums, and other commissioned pieces, and excellent customer service.
I’m also pretty active in the volunteer community with Momcology and V for Victory – both of which help families affected by cancer. In 2019, I created a calendar that helped raise funds for Alex’s Lemonade Stand – a non profit organization that also helps families affected. I had to take a break for 2020 and 2021 due to the spread of the virus and the viral sensitivity of the subjects, but I PLAN to be able to do it again in 2022.
What is your favorite part of
being a photographer?
Seeing people come alive…with love, with happiness, with raw emotion. And when I get goosebumps? I know it’s a win.
What is your perfect photoshoot?
Honestly? Anytime a family trusts me completely, from styling ideas, to location, to posing/unposing. THAT’S when the magic gets to truly happen, and the good times flow…and you see it on your pictures later!
What are your hopes for the future?
I’m pretty happy right now, to be honest. MAYBE, in the far future, expanding my studio space for my Santa experience sessions? We’re cozy right now, (and I like it like that), but a little space never hurt anyone either. :D
Quality Veterinary Medicine
This is a key industry shift, and one that sets apart the “Total Quality Pet Care” focus vs, the “Budget Package” focus of the Corporate Vet practices. Consumers need to fully understand the difference, and there needs to be an awareness of the details and services within, as you make decisions for the very best medical care for your pet.
Corporately run Vet practices have done research and completed studies that show what the very best opportunities are to reach a high percentage of the population with pet care, devise a “Budget Based” system for the pet owner, and achieve a “Turn Rate” of clients that is high enough to achieve a maximum profitable ratio.
Then, just like a fast food chain, they create cookie cutter outlets of that format, where they can offer the exact same design, to then increase their footprint and overall dollar volume. Certainly these companies still have caring and well trained people looking after the pets and clients within this format.
We approach pet medicine from a two tiered level of, quality and fact based medical research and resolution along with education of our client owners, for an improved “best life” opportunity for your pets.
We all have to pay our personnel, buy our expensive equipment, and pay back our student loans for our Vet Degrees, and keep the lights on in our buildings. So certainly we all must have some focus on pricing and the optimal ways to reach as many people as we can with the knowledge of our practices. However the key difference that is evolving, is that the “Quality Medicine” focus of private practices, is completely focused on total pet care from the tip of the pets nose to the tip of the pets tail. A “package” does not define the limits of our scope, nor does it drive the register ring.
Our practice at Pets R Family Veterinary Hospital, is totally focused on the highest quality pet care and client experience. We approach pet medicine from a two tiered level of, quality and fact based medical research and resolution along with education of our client owners, for an improved “best life” opportunity for your pets. We offer a leading edge facility with equipment, hospital and medical protocol design that is of the highest level. And we operate with a trained, professional staff, that is built with a service ratio greater than other practices our size. We have chosen this design to better serve our clients with attention, communication, education, and supporting services that make your pet care experience fulfilling and complete. And we start each day with the promise that we operate under the tenants that have been offered to us by our Creator, of Love, Care and Compassion.
At Pets R Family Veterinary Hospital, we believe that your pet is truly a part of your family, just as we feel about our own. And we approach each patient with the focus of providing the very best in pet care. Never will you hear us speak of a “package” or a designed program that has nothing to do with your pets needs. We believe that each pet is a different and unique living creature, that deserves our upmost attention and effort to achieve the best medical care and quality life possible. That’s why we say “At Pets R Family Veterinary Hospital, we are your other family Doctor!”
Talks about her kids going back to school and getting back to normal!
"Action News Jax This Morning" Anchor Dawn Lopez can relate to how parents may be feeling because she's going through it as well. "We've shared news reports with our viewers on doctors warning about the mental and social toll the pandemic was having on families. My family is no exception," reveals Dawn. "Even with the best efforts, my children fell behind in school. Between testy technology to virtual fatigue and cabin fever, there were lots of family meetings about keeping each other on the right track."
It's been an unprecedented time dealing with the isolation that COVID has caused for parents and their children.
"I spent a lot of time encouraging my kids to set time aside for video chats with friends so they could stay connected. My daughter was suffering but now there's light at the end of the tunnel! My twins are excited about learning in the classromm again and seeing their friends regularly."
While the Pandemic is far from over, there is a feeling of trying to get back to "normal" and Action News Jax is committed to providing the information needed to help communities get through it, safely. During back-to-school month, Dawn and her "Action News Jax This Morning" team will be covering many of the issues parents will need answers to. Updates to the CDC Guidelines will be on-going. Identifying the new safety measures in schools including food health safety and what St Johns County is requiring to keep COVID-19 out of the classrooms. And, if a student or staff member shows symptoms, what is the school's plan to deal with that? Action News Jax will be looking into that for sure.
The new school year is here, and for now, it's all about getting back to normal.
My kids see it as a privilege now, to be in the classroom and have access to their teachers firsthand and having lunch with their friends every day. 2021-2022 look out, here we come!”
In addition to coverage of back-to-school on "Action News Jax This Morning," look for their back-to-school special "Back to the Classroom," airing Thursday, August 5th at 7pm on CBS47 and Friday, August 6th at 7pm on FOX30.
www.shearwaterliving.com.
CELEBRITY TRAINER CHRIS POWELL LAUNCHES
MOVE ONE MILLION ON THE EAST COAST AT SHEARWATER
M1M is a completely free, online service that aims to bring health and togetherness back to humanity by reaching and moving one million people. The nonprofit’s mission is to standardize movement and mindfulness in our culture, giving every human the access to move daily, reduce stress, and feel connected with others for improved physical, mental, and social health.
“Healthy living is at the heart of Shearwater’s commitment to our residents and the greater community,” Susan Moguel, Marketing Director, Shearwater. “We are dedicated to continuing to improve health and overall wellbeing. Move One Million is an incredible organization with a mission that is closely aligned with our own.”
“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic I was inspired to give back and find a way to help others deal with the feelings of isolation and anxiousness,” said Chris Powell, founder of Move ONE Million. “Daily movement is the first step to positive life-long change and improving both physical and mental health. I truly believe we can change the world by changing one million lives together. I’m so grateful to Shearwater for believing in my mission and hosting the East Coast launch of my nonprofit.
At the top of every hour daily, M1M broadcasts the 2.5-minute routine that everyone, regardless of age or ability can do, followed by a 1-minute mindfulness exercise to reduce stress and positive affirmation to boost confidence and self-esteem. The broadcast is available to live stream across the globe on several social platform and on M1M’s App.
Shearwater’s unique focus on lifestyle programming, healthy living, and the connection to neighbors and proximity to the outdoors sets it apart from other communities in the area, making it the ideal location to launch Move One Million on the East Coast.
Shearwater is located at 100 Kayak Way, St. Augustine, FL 32092.
To learn more about Shearwater, visit www.shearwaterliving.com. Shearwater currently offers home designs from David Weekley, Lennar, Dream Finders and MasterCraft.
For more information visit bartramdental.com
or call 904.201.6000

Having been in business since 2005, Bartram Dental Center is all about positivity, compassion, teamwork, and family with the goal of providing patients with the best possible outcome. We had the opportunity to meet the dentists and their team, and tour this beautiful new dental practice right in the heart of northern St. Johns. When you step through the door of the new offices, you feel the relaxing comfort of a beautiful home and a welcome feeling pervades in every detail of the decor and energy of the staff.
Dr. Lewis: We love the family-friendly spirit that thrives here in northern St Johns County. We see it daily with our patient family and our own family’s life. We are raising our twin sons Carson & Connor here and appreciate the world-class public schools, opportunities for youth sports, and the friendliness of our neighborhoods. We know that we are blessed with an amazing quality of life here. We also did a lot of research before we moved to Jacksonville, and determined that St Johns County had the best school system. Traci was a high school math teacher, so it was important for both of us for her to have a great school district to work in.
What is your practice’s mission?
Dr. Lewis: We made an investment years ago in becoming a “Complete Health” dental practice. There are only a select few Complete Health dentists in the U.S. It involves training, resource commitments etc. For our patients it means we are focused on helping them maintain their very best “complete health” -- not just ideal “dental” health. Patients see our Complete Health mission when we ask about their sleeping habits, diet challenges, new medications, other health issues. We believe the mouth is the gateway to your overall health. We can help people with issues way beyond having a beautiful and fully-functioning smile. Our mission statement is ‘We create healthy, happy people, one smile at a time’.
What is important to you in providing dental care?
Dr. Lewis: We want our patients to relax and have a pleasant dental experience knowing that we will be compassionate while we expertly address their issues. We are fully aware that patients experience “dental anxiety” and we work to make sure that is minimized. We make sure you know what to expect and we are focused on minimizing any discomfort. Many patients also benefit from various forms of sedation dentistry. Ultimately, we know that patients need to have a pleasant experience if they are going to continue to be a member of our patient family. Overall, the most important aspects to me in providing dental care are the patient experience, as well as the team experience. If you have a happy team, patients can sense this, and it makes them feel more comfortable in our office.

Dr. Lewis: We want our current and "future" patients to know that we are committed to providing state-of-the-art dental services from our brand new facility just east of I-95 at CR-210. Our modern new office is designed with the patient experience in mind. We want you to be relaxed and confident that our dentists are going to successfully treat you. We want our patients to know that Bartram Dental is locally-owned -- our dentists live here and intend to be leading Bartram Dental for years to come. Any member of our team of dental health professionals at Bartram Dental could work anywhere, but they choose to be a part of our very special Practice. Customer service is a lost art in the medical profession, and it is our passion to bring it back.
How do you work together as a team to help patients?
Dr. Lewis: Recently, we had a patient referred to us by another patient, who has very severe dental anxiety. We listened to her concerns, and presented clinical and financial options to help with her anxiety about dental treatment. We offered this patient conscious sedation, which is a form of sedation that involves taking a couple of pills. When I followed up with the patient after treatment, she was ‘blown away’ about how wonderful her experience was (she had an extraction and 2 dental implants placed) and she was looking forward to coming to her future dental appointments. She loved our customer service and overall work environment. We also communicated with her medical doctors to keep them informed of her treatment and how this procedure could impact other areas of her health. This type of experience is one example of many that fuels our passion as an office to provide exceptional care to our patients.
How do you keep up with current dental technology and education?
Dr. Lewis: Our dentists and other dental health professionals are routinely enrolled in training classes and coursework to make certain we are providing our patients with the latest advances in Dentistry. It's part of who we are at Bartram Dental to fully embrace modern technology especially when it reduces patient discomfort and dramatically improves patient outcomes. We also make sure we are up to date for our assisting school. We are very proud of the men and women that have graduated our Florida Department of Education approved program. We are honored that they have chosen us as a resource to better their lives and the lives of their future patients.
What are some of the best new treatments people may not know about?
Dr. Lewis: Our newest laser technology allows us to treat cavities and other minor procedures without anesthesia. We also have 3D X-ray technology that gives us information about the patient’s airway. Speaking of airway, our laser technology will also eliminate snoring by treating the palate area. This can be done without anesthesia as well. That is life changing!
What are some special features you offer patients at your office to make their experience enjoyable?
Dr. Lewis: Starbucks only wishes their coffee was as good as what we offer (haha). In the mornings, we make freshly baked Otis Spunkmeyer cookies to give to our patients as they leave (there’s no job security there!). During treatment, the patient has the option to watch one of their favorite shows on Netflix, Disney+ or Hulu. We also offer warm, scented towels as a finishing touch to your visit with us. Lastly, we have a beverage bar that includes coffee, water, and Gatorade. You may just want to sit next to a fireplace and drink a nice cup of coffee or tea in one of our cozy sofas and relax as well!
How do you help people who are embarrassed by their smiles?
Dr. Lewis: Our dentists will work with you to develop a “realistic” plan that will get you the beautiful and fully-functioning smile that you deserve. We will make sure you understand every step of the process and we will always be mindful of your budget. We also "listen" to your concerns and goals. We fully appreciate that we are working with you to create a smile that will last a lifetime.
Do you live in St. Johns?
Both Drs. Lewis and Barlow along with their wives and families live in St Johns County. Dr. Barlow and his wife, Jamie, are natives of St Augustine. Many of our team members are proud St Johns County residents as well. We all appreciate this very special place.
What is your favorite thing to do when you are not working? Dr. Lewis and his wife Traci, the Practice Manager, enjoy spending time with their twin sons. Their boys are very active in youth sports including baseball, basketball, flag football, etc. which keeps them busy. They also enjoy spending time at home and enjoying all the outdoor activities available in Northeast Florida. Dr. Barlow, his wife Jamie, and their young daughter enjoy spending time with family and friends, riding bikes, going to the beach, and watching Georgia Football.
A Unique Medical Practice Focusing on Optimal Health & Flawless Beauty
A single mother of four daughters who are living beautiful lives on their own terms, Dr. Quinn’s mission and commitment are to be a catalyst to empower her patients to do the same. That means welcoming the choice to put self-care at the top of their priority lists, perhaps for the first time in their lives. Patients value the results they welcome. And most importantly, they treasure the way Dr. Quinn makes them feel by how she treats them. Perceptive, compassionate, and intuitive, Dr. Quinn sees the real you even if you can’t. And she sees the possibilities to create powerful transformation at the moment so you can imagine new possibilities for yourself.
Dr. Quinn has been in love with all things beautiful, colorful, and aligned for a lifetime. And she knows that there is so much more to embrace to create a vibrant, healthy, beautiful life from the inside out. When she is not practicing medicine, she is practicing yoga and meditation. She is the walking-talking poster child for what it is to be a woman in mid-life or better who is loving the impact she makes for clients, one important, transformational treatment at a time.
As women, it is our birthright to be radiant. The body is an incredible structure that, if we listen properly, tells us what it needs, and especially what it doesn’t. Rather than simply covering up symptoms with prescriptions, I believe in finding the root of the problem by getting to know my patients and working alongside them in order to identify what imbalances are creating illness, pain and discomfort
L.A. Quinn M.D. is founded by certified ACOG, American Academy of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine physician Dr. Linda Quinn, M.D., FAARM, ABBARM. Over the years, Dr. Quinn has taken a multi-layer approach to provide patients with optimal health and flawless beauty. Specializing in regenerative medicine and cosmetic procedures, Dr. Quinn combines science and beauty to create miraculous results.
Everyone has the desire to look and feel younger, and at L.A. Quinn M.D., it's never been easier. With innovative procedures, including Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) therapy, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, and EuroThreads Lifting, your body does all of the hard work for you. "I've always sought-after natural alternatives to aesthetic and anti-aging procedures whenever possible," explained Dr. Quinn. "It's an ongoing passion of mine to provide patients with a variety of options that, when coupled with the power of their bodies, help to halt and reverse the aging process."
L.A. Quinn M.D. has recently introduced Euro Face, Neck, and Body Thread Lifting and volumizing to their list of services. The innovative procedure activates collagen growth. Time is seemingly reversed, leaving behind little to no scarring, instant results, and no downtime for those looking to achieve a firm, sculpted appearance. EuroThreads places resorbable surgical sutures below the skin, which will be fully absorbed in four to six months, leaving behind zero scar tissue. The threads help tighten and replace lost volume, providing patients with a sculpted and youthful appearance in various areas, including the face, neck, and body, such as abdomen, knees, and arms. Results can be seen immediately and will continue to improve over the next several months as new collagen growth is stimulated underneath the skin. The results reset the clock and can last up to 2 years or more, depending on the patient's skin, health, age, and overall lifestyle.
L.A. Quinn M.D. also offers natural facelifts using PRF and PRP therapy for patients seeking a natural approach to radiant, glowing skin. PRF Natural Face Lift procedure is best for those struggling with age spots, wrinkles, and fine lines. The PRF facelift procedure creates filler from your body's plasma to achieve both volume and silkier skin. By stimulating collagen and elastin production, PRF thickens and tightens thinning skin while effectively smoothing wrinkles and fine lines and targeting dark circles and skin spots to create a more youthful appearance over time. PRF's effects are long-lasting, providing noticeable results for up to two years.
PRP and its components are the body's primary defense in the repair and healing process, helping restore, enhance, and rejuvenate the body. During PRP therapy, these cells are directed to troublesome areas, encouraging the body to repair physical ailments that typically don't respond to traditional methods. Platelet Rich Plasma therapy has become increasingly popular. It is used to treat various conditions, including hair loss, facial rejuvenation, acne scars, stretch marks, tendonitis, joint pain, and more.
"The body is an incredible structure," explained Dr. Quinn. "Using our own body in conjunction with these procedures is a natural alternative to achieve firmer, radiant, and more youthful results."
As a mother of four daughters, and expert in anti-aging medicine, Dr. Quinn has spent over fifteen years perfecting her practice to provide patients with a plan tailored to their specific needs. She is a catalyst to empower her patients to create powerful transformation and live their lives as the best version of themselves. Perceptive, compassionate, and intuitive, Dr. Quinn sees the real you even if you can't.
L.A. Quinn M.D. specializes in regenerative medicine and hormone balance, including laser therapies, micro-needling, fillers, PRP Treatments, hair regrowth therapies, stem cell therapies, Kundalini Yoga, meditation, and more. L.A. Quinn M.D. is conveniently located on the border of Ponte Vedra Beach and Jacksonville Beach at #410 Jacksonville Drive, Jacksonville Beach, Florida. The office is open Monday through Friday by appointment. Learn more at www.laquinnmd.com or call 904-595-5980. Follow along on social media @laquinnmd
Watkins Allergy & Asthma is owned by Raquel S. Watkins, MD, a local specialist in the field of Allergy and Asthma. Dr. Watkins completed her Internal Medicine Residency training at Wake Forest University, and was later appointed Chief Resident. She served on Faculty at Wake Forest University School of Medicine as the Associate Program Director of the Internal Medicine Residency Training Program, before returning to fellowship in Allergy and Immunology, both pediatric and adult. Dr. Watkins was on the Wake Forest University School of Medicine faculty in the Section on Pulmonary, Critical Care, Allergic and Immunologic Diseases, specializing in the care of pediatric and adult allergy and asthma. She opened her practice in north Florida in 2008. |
I have always felt as if my calling as a physician was to help patients manage their allergies and asthma. Many patients with asthma have allergies as a trigger so there is quite a bit of overlap. While in medical school at the University of Maryland and during my residency and fellowship at Wake Forest University, I was able to experience firsthand how asthma and allergies can affect one’s quality of life. I also lost my paternal grandfather to asthma. Now, nothing motivates me more than hearing a patient comment how much better they feel with their treatment regimen. It always make me smile inside.
What is your practice’s mission? Our Allergy/Immunology practice is a division of Borland Groover and our mission is to provide excellent healthcare through innovation and personal service with exceptional physicians and staff.
What is your favorite aspect of being a doctor? Meeting patients from all walks of life and hearing their story and working with them to improve their health. Over the years, my patients have inspired me!
How do you help your patients? I really listen. Are there any cases that really stand out over the years? There are many scenarios that stand out over the years. Our patient with asthma has frequent attacks and had a hard time identifying her triggers. Same day testing revealed that her main triggers were ragweed, grass, trees and dust and pets. We optimized her asthma therapy and gave her tips on how to reduce indoor allergens and started her on allergen immunotherapy or ‘allergy shots’. She wrote a special note thanking us for improving her quality of life
How many years have you practiced medicine and how do you keep up with current treatments? I’ve been a physician for over 24 years. I keep up with current treatments by reading our allergy journals, guidelines, and by completing maintenance of certification tests every 6 months, from the American Board of Allergy and Immunology. There are quality improvement projects outlined by the Board that I complete for our practice and our staff is required to stay up-to-date as well.
Are there any new treatments you are using to help people? Yes, asthma has become very personalized and today more than ever we can offer patients specific therapies to improve their quality of life: i.e., biologics and injectable medications.

What are the most common allergies people get in North Florida? Ragweed, Tree, Bahia grass and Bermuda grass are common outdoor allergens, but dust and pets can trigger symptoms as well.
What is your favorite thing to do in your spare time? Ha-ha. Well, let’s see. In addition to being a physician, I’m a mom and a wife (my husband is Dr. Jim Kimberly, Borland Groover gastroenterologist), so my life is full in an awesome way. When I’m not at work, you can find me planning the next family meal, or at sporting events; my daughter plays soccer and runs track and my son runs cross-country and track. Jim and I do date nights once a week – we enjoy eating out at local restaurants, going for walks, or watching a Netflix series at home. Lately, I’ve been setting crazy goals for myself; so you may see me at 5K events. I ran a 5K recently and I’m training for one in March as well (March to get screened). Well, I say training but the goal here is to finish. I love yoga and I try to practice being mindful in many aspects of my life, so you can catch me at the yoga studio once or twice a week, and most evenings, I spend walking or jogging, trying to get in my 10000 steps.
Watkins Allergy & Asthma Staff in Action
13241 Bartram Park Blvd. Suite 2601
Jacksonville Fl 32258
2140 Kingsley Ave. Suite 1,
Orange Park Fl 32073
Small Business Success Story!
2849 County Road 210 W #107 |
St. Johns 32259 |
904-230-1577
Rivertown has served northern St. Johns for fifteen years and during that time they have learned what it means to be a successful small business. Frank and Bonnie say their success rests on four main cornerstones; flexibility in offering customers what they want, giving back to the community through charity events, understanding how to be competitive, and high-quality customer service with their own unique charm. St. Johns Magazine asked them about how they have met the challenges of recent times, and what others may learn from their experience.
Reflecting on the past year - How has Rivertown adapted and continued to be successful in the age of Covid?
Fortunately because of the type of business we have, we were able to easily adapt to restrictions and guidelines for COVID. We required masks be worn, and provided them if customers did not have one. Early on, we offered curbside service and limited the number of customers in the store to accomplish social distancing. We have been blessed with the fact that we can continue to do business and feel very bad for the restaurants and bars that have been closed and forced employees out of work. We thank our customers for their continued support and we will continue to try to help those people less fortunate.
How has Rivertown been flexible in terms of what you offer to the changing needs and taste of the community in recent years?
We constantly review our assortment of inventory and delete slow moving items. This allows us to utilize that space for new, popular and high demand products. In the past seven or eight years, bourbon has been the focus of many customers. We carry over 100 different Bourbons, and seek out rare, hard to find bourbons, many of which go into our Annual Bourbon Auction in February. We also do single barrel picks that are provided to us and we are the exclusive retailer for those products. For example our last barrel picked, Elijah Craig 8 year-old, produced 250 bottles, bottled exclusively for RFWS. Another service we provide, that has been very successful is our ability to fulfill customers’ special order requests.
We feel very blessed to have the customer base that we’ve had for almost 15 years now. May 22, 2021 we will be celebrating our 15 year anniversary. We feel it is important to give back to our community since they have given to us, and it has bonded our community. We are lucky enough to be able to financially support individual charities with donations when requests are made to our store. In addition our charity, Pancan (Pancreatic Cancer Action Network), has been our focus charity for seven years now. Bonnie is a 13 year survivor and we know how lucky we are. We have raised over $80,000 since 2016 and most recently in the first nine months of 2020 we raised $23,400 of that amount. We do this through our barrel picks where we add a small amount to the charity on each bottle and also selling hard to find Bourbons throughout the year with a small amount to the charity. In addition, our customers are constantly donating money into our charity jar on our counter.
How do you stay competitive?
We keep our prices as low as possible on all items in the store. We do this by buying in quantity. We have a warehouse with over 1400 cases in it and purchase most of our brands in 25 to 100 cases of each brand. This allows us to stay competitive with the other retailers in the marketplace. It has not been easy but with the quality service we provide, the cleanliness of our store and the large assortment, customers come back to us for items that the large chain stores don’t carry. We have a very good relationship with Publix next-door to us and if customers come in looking for wines that we don’t carry we can call their wine department manager and see if they do. They also will send customers to us for wine that they don’t carry. This helps all the customers in our community find what they’re looking for and builds our relationships with other businesses and our customers, and repeat business.
Your customer service is something that sets you apart - What is your philosophy regarding Customer Service?
I have been involved in the retail industry most of my life. I grew up working in my fathers grocery store, Joe’s Superette, in Pittsburgh, PA. After graduating college in early 1973, I worked for Maas Bros department stores for 7 years. Then I got involved as a alcoholic beverage sales person in Sarasota and that got me started in this business. Over the years I have witnessed many retailers close their doors because they didn’t understand what good customer service was. One of my favorite retailers to visit, is Orangedale Auto.... Terry, Nick , Pete and the guys are always there to service my classic cars and daily drivers. They stand behind everything they do and they provide the best service in their business. We strive for that in our store. We guarantee satisfaction on every product sold in our store no questions asked. Our customers Appreciate that and the service we provide on a daily basis. Our staff is trained to always make every customer happy before they leave with their purchase. Success does not come easily but we have strived to be the best small independent liquor/ wine shop and are very PROUD of what we’ve accomplished. 15 years and more to come!
Fashion at the Speed of Childhood...
The Forum at Greenbriar 206 Ashourian Avenue, Ste. 110 |

Kids shop alone or with adults to find the next apparel trend that reflects the Florida lifestyle. The mix n’ match line pairs with cool shoes and accessories, including matching pet apparel approved by the store mascot, Cooper the Terrier. Along with their daughter Bailey, each member of the family has a hand in design development. The label is complemented with high-end fashion brands, too – check the website.
By being “hands-on”, Teri-ann is not locked-in to buying stock off market racks. She re-imagines each season and brings into reality designs kids want to wear, which is why kids choose Jet & Ivy clothing over mass-produced clothes.
Teri-ann and family enjoy being residents of St. Johns County. She also understands the importance of giving back. As her community commitment, $1 from every item sold is donated to St. Johns Cares, a valuable benefit of shopping at Jet & Ivy.
Opening a retail store is challenging, but Teri-ann is laser-focused on providing the best customer service possible using best practices. Open every day, she finds the rhythm of her customers’ buying habits including putting Jet & Ivy on their gift list.
New customers receive 20%-off their first purchase until December 31. Come by The Forum at Greenbriar at 206 Ashourian Avenue, Ste. 110 (near corner of St. Johns Parkway and CR 210 W and central to Ponte Vedra Beach, St. Augustine, Nocatee, and Jacksonville). Teri-ann, David, and family – and, yes, Cooper the Dog – look forward to meeting you. Welcome to the Jet & Ivy Family.
Nikki Rakov, Eric Rackov, Alma Ramirez, Terri Rampone & Judith Goldstein
To see more of Nikki's art visit www.rakovfinearts.com | EvenTide, charcoal and gesso on paper, 11" x 14" (Nikki Rakov) ![]() Art has been my passion since I was a small child. For as long as I can remember, I have been drawing and painting, creating works of art that reflect experiences of my surroundings. As a child, I lived in Virginia and California before settling in North Florida and I have many memories of time spent in those places expressing myself through my art. During high school, I took every art class offered and then enrolled at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia earning a Bachelor’s degree in the Visual Arts as well as in Art History. During my undergraduate years, I studied drawing, painting and art history while living in Florence, Italy for six months. This Italian adventure was a turning point for me as that experience strengthened my passion for the Fine Arts and for travel, instilling in me a lifelong passion for both art and travel. After graduation, I returned to North Florida and began teaching high school art in Duval County. |
Cover Image
Shangra-La by Nikki Rikov
| How did you get started as an artist? I enjoyed drawing and had a natural inclination towards visual arts at an early age. Art classes were always my favorite in school and I won a scholastic award in high school as well as AP credit. I attended Rochester Institute of Technology and I earned a BFA in Graphic Design and an AA, and after graduation in 1996 I immediately joined a tech startup designing web sites. I figured out quickly that I was better suited for (and could earn more) in IT project management, which has essentially been my career for the last 23 years. I dabbled in painting and drawing over the years, but when I met my wife Nikki (also an artist) in 2014, the artistic part of me was re-awakened. What inspires you? I consider myself more of a hobbyist than an artist, and I’m easily impressed with others’ work. I follow several hashtags and artists on Instagram and am blown away by some of the landscape art that I see in my feed. I’m also impressed by some of the productivity from artists who are able to create a painting per day (or more). For my own work I enjoy working from life when possible, and many of my favorites are simple still life coffee cups, sea shells, as well as figure drawings (which haven’t happened in a while due to COVID-19). What aspect of your work do you enjoy most? I like to work in traditional media such as acrylics and oils, and lately I’ve gotten more into collage using cut magazines. I apply the media in a somewhat “painterly” style building colors in layers, creating dark shadows and bright highlights. Making a collage is also kind of like working a jigsaw puzzle or building with legos, where there’s a lot of searching for the right piece. Collage, unlike wet-media paints, can also be worked on in smaller time slots (less prep and cleanup). My favorite part is being in the thick of the work itself, fully transfixed and losing track of time while in the act of creating a piece. The most difficult part is knowing when to stop. What has been the most memorable response to your work? We joined the St. Augustine Art Association several years ago, which has been a fantastic organization to support and have access to the resources it provides. Having a piece accepted and displayed in their gallery for the first time was definitely a treasured memory. We also received a really positive response from friends and neighbors who viewed our pieces on display at Twisted Compass coffee this spring. |
| Alma Ramirez, contemporary abstract artist, creates pixelated-inspired waterfront art Mexican-American artist, Alma Ramirez, transformed grief and uncertainty into hope and tranquility. One day in late 2014, Ramirez was walking up and down the Florida coastline, snapping photos of the surf and sand, contemplating the impending certainty of raising her son as a single mother. With the crash of a wave, Ramirez dropped her camera into the water. The artist discovered after downloading waterlogged, pixelated images, while her camera was broken, her hope was not. Ramirez discovered that even a “broken image” can be beautiful. “The images inspired me to pick up my paintbrush and use colors to create a story,” explained Ramirez, who earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Instituto de Bellas Artes in Chihuahua, Mexico. “By exploring the concept of my broken images, I was able to notice pure colors, shapes, forms, and even emotions. My work became a source of meditation for me – helping me form a new vision and a new perspective for my life.” Pink, lilac, and orange sailboats gather amidst a sea of pixelated blue hues in Afternoon Glare. Pockets of cornflower, goldenrod, and teal marsh grass grows out of the rectangular waterway in Marsh In Blue. In Serenity By The Water, towering masts are the pinnacle of vibrant, multi-colored sailboats resting in the bay. These are just a few of the pieces of art in Ramirez’s vast and growing collection, which range in price from $300 to more than $6,000. “I believe feelings can be transmitted through color and composition,” the artist said. “There is so much poetry in color alone that I can’t resist but try and combine and arrange tones and shapes in different ways – creating or recreating a story. I’m always astonished at how much I can share with the world through my art, my love for nature – especially the ocean – and my journey seeking peace within the waves.” ALMA RAMIREZ FINE ART’S vibrant and modern interpretations of waterfront scenes can be found by appointment only at her gallery location in the San Sebastian Art District, 134 Riberia Street, St. Augustine, Florida. Learn more at alma-ramirez.com and follow along on Instagram @almaramirezart |
Judith Goldstein"Another response to this period of isolation and the reach for comfort! "This too Shall Pass" is something that my Mother and Grandmother used to say to me whenever I was sad. These words are familiar to me and have brought soulful memories of my childhood and the serenity of the shelter and safety we took for granted." Judith Goldstein |
| What is the story of how you became an artist? I’ve been painting since I was eight years old. Attended The School of Visual Arts in New York and then moved onto The Fashion Institute of Technology. Today 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. 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. How does your work as a permanent makeup artist fit into your journey? I also use my artistic experience to apply Permanent Makeup to enhance eyebrows, eyeliner, lips and Areolas and scars with several different techniques. I love giving back to people in need and enjoying making a simple change in their lives that brings so much joy. As a fine artist what describes your approach? Anything with color and movement and shadows seems to catch my eye the most. I can get absorbed into the art and get lost inside it. 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. I admire 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. |
St. Johns, Florida 32259
904-325-6223
stjohns@hotspotpoweryoga.com
www.hotspotpoweryoga.com
What kind of classes will be offered?
All 4 Hot Spot Power Yoga studios are Baptiste Affiliate studios, which means that we provide classes in the style of Baptiste Yoga, a rigorous vinyasa, or flow, practice made popular by Baron Baptiste. The majority of our classes take place in a room heated to 90 degrees, though we will also offer some restorative, less intense but still very beneficial classes, which will not be in a heated room.
What is hot yoga? How is it different from regular yoga?
Heat, or tapas, is one of the 5 pillars of Baptiste yoga - the other 4 being breath (ujjayi), gaze (drishti), core stabilization (uddiyana bandha), and flow (vinyasa). The purpose of heat in Baptiste yoga is to facilitate warming up the body both from the inside and out, allowing for greater flexibility and a deeper practice. Heat brings an additional level of rigor to our yoga practice, loosens the muscles more quickly, and works together with breathwork to bring focus, clarity, and ultimately, physical and mental transformation. By learning and practicing these skills on our mats, we are better equipped to go out into the world and put them to use in our everyday lives.
What are some of the physical and mental benefits of yoga?
Yoga is a beautiful and varied practice, and its benefits are vast. Physically, practitioners gain strength, flexibility, and stamina, bringing their heart rates up, toning the muscles, and strengthening the core. Mentally, yoga helps to reduce stress and anxiety, providing a time and space for individuals to breathe, move, and meditate. We often talk of taking our yoga off of our mats and out into the world. We learn so much about ourselves through our yoga practice, in terms of reactivity, expectation, and self worth. Yoga teaches us to be kinder to ourselves, that we don’t have to be perfect, and how to approach difficult situations.
What makes your yoga studio unique?
Without a doubt, Hot Spot Power Yoga stands out because we are a COMMUNITY. We are a safe space where everyone is welcome and no one is judged. You can come as you are and know you will be accepted, whether you’ve practiced yoga for 25 years or it’s your first class, whether you’re wearing high-end yoga apparel or just picked up some leggings at the bargain basement. That doesn’t matter. We’re just happy you’ve joined us, and we want to support one another. We are all connected, and we embrace that connectivity, celebrating one another’s achievements, and holding each other up in times of difficulty. Often times, people come in to the studio to practice yoga, and they leave feeling part of something bigger than themselves.
Why did you decide to start the business? Also, why St. Johns?
I discovered Hot Spot Power Yoga when I was looking for a studio to practice in after my daughter was born 3 years ago. I needed time to myself to breathe, to move, and to de-stress from mommy duty. I showed up looking for a hot, sweaty workout, and I found so much more. Over time, my schedule changed such that I wasn’t able to get to classes at the existing HSPY studios, and I nearly cancelled my membership, as I just couldn’t make the commute anymore. While I am well aware that there are far greater decisions in life, I really struggled with this one. Ultimately, I was in yoga class and had the realization that if there wasn’t a studio close to where I lived, I should make it happen! I credit yoga for showing me this possibility, and empowering me to go for it! I took the next step and contacted Leah Hansen, the founder of Hot Spot Power Yoga, and I asked her to partner with me on this adventure. From day 1, she has been a steadfast support to me and to opening this 4th studio location in St. Johns, for which I will be eternally grateful. We both see great things ahead.

I have practiced yoga for over 15 years. After the birth of my son 8 years ago, yoga helped me through a difficult bout of postpartum depression (in addition to the care of my physician). At that time, I would go to yoga class for that hour of stillness to clear my mind, but after class, I would return to life as normal, not yet aware of how to carry yoga into my everyday life. When I began practicing at Hot Spot, I continued to show up for that hour of peace, but little by little, the lessons I learned on my mat started to translate into my way of thinking, communicating, and being. Just like when I would confront a pose in my practice that challenged me, I learned to respond instead of react to difficult situations in my life, and take the process one step at a time. Similar to when I would fall out of a pose on my mat, I gained the perspective that if and when I don’t meet up to certain expectations in life, I can always try again, and value the effort. And in the same way that I return to my breath when I feel winded or defeated in class, I can come back to my breath when life inevitably overwhelms me. These practices and skills have changed my life for the better, and I want to share them with anyone and everyone.
What did you do before owning your own business?
I am a licensed and certified Physician Assistant. I have a Master’s Degree in Health Sciences from George Washington University, and I worked for 6 years in Boston, MA and Washington, DC as a Neurosurgical Physician Assistant, specializing in the treatment of the brain and spine. When my son was born, I chose to stay home to care for him, and I have, without regret, been a stay-at-home mom ever since. I always planned to go back to work eventually, and now that my son is 8 and my daughter is 3, I’m starting to spread my wings again, though in a different direction, as this opportunity to open a yoga studio presented itself to me at just the right time.
When you have time off, what is your favorite thing to do with your family in St. Johns?
When I have time off, I like to practice yoga! Besides that, though, we love spending time with family at the beach, and feel blessed to have both my parents and my brother and his family nearby (he and his wife own and run Ridgewater Show Stables, an equestrian training center in St. Augustine). We love to travel to visit my husband’s family in Connecticut, where we get our taste of fall, winter, and lots of cousins, and we cherish our annual family ski vacations to Colorado. Beyond that, I’m a huge fan of trips to the spa, relaxing with friends, and a good brunch.
Philip is one of 161 outstanding American high school seniors who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, artistic excellence, technical expertise, leadership, citizenship, service, and contribution to school and community. Philip is one of six students selected from Florida.
Lauren Phillip, class of 2020 comes from St. Johns, Florida and graduated from Creekside High School. As an avid learner for all things engineering, she was president of Creekside’s Engineering Club and Science National Honor Society her senior year, in which she displayed organizational and communicative skills for volunteer projects and science fairs. Philip’s membership in Creekside’s chapter of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) has provided her the chance to impart the experience of her internship at Ultratech International, Inc. to other young women. Furthermore, her involvement of the school’s engineering academy and Northeast Florida ACE Mentorship program means she holds certifications in several industry markers (i.e. OSHA, MSSC), and CAD software. In addition to engineering, Philip is deeply rooted in music, which has led to her position as section leader in her marching band. She will attend Florida Gulf Coast University in Fall ’20, pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering.
“Coastal Wine Market & tasting room, Nocatee, is proud to be able to donate $10,000 to our local chapter of the American Red Cross (ARC) through the support of our guests who purchased gift cards and took part in our no-contact delivery and pickup during these challenging few months." Steve remarks, “This is the best way to celebrate CWM’s 4th-Year Anniversary #payitforward #giveback #supportlocal”.
CWM has re-opened for business following CDC Guidelines and welcomes guests to visit. Please refer to their website at www.coastalwinemarket.com and www.facebook.com/coastalwinemarket for live updates and current happenings.”
Several years ago I wanted to define who MasterCraft Builder Group was in a summarized form. With the help of our marketing company, we developed what are now the pillars of MasterCraft known as the 4-C’s: Craftsmanship, Choice, Customer Service, and Community. Community involves helping and giving back to our LOCAL needs and it’s built into the DNA of this company as well as the other companies I now own—something I’m most proud of.
My charity plans for 2020 had a big wrench thrown in them due to COVID. One of the bigger endeavors I was planning was called Concerts For A Cause. I own a large wedding venue in South St. Augustine that has a capacity of 300. My plan was (and still is) to bring in big name musicians and have a more intimate, almost un-plugged, concert where we serve dinner and drinks, enjoy a large camp fire, etc. and enjoy a night of music and fellowship. Part of the appeal will be attending a concert with a big name headliner and only having 300 people in attendance. The other appealing part is that all profits from these concerts will go to a “cause” which will change with each concert. It’s a fun way to generate $25,000 - 50,000+ per event for a local causes. I am determined to make this happen and can’t wait until it does!
Aside from Concerts For A Cause, we will be hosting the 8th Annual Clays For A Cause this year at Saltwater’s Shooting Club. The tournament will benefit Seamark Ranch and St. Augustine Youth Services again—the two orphanages with whom we are closest. Last year we raised $168,000 during this one day event which is just mind blowing. My commitment to the event remains in that I’ll pay for everything including shooting, food, drinks, golf cart rentals, etc. so that every dollar donated by the participants actually goes to the charities and not towards paying for the event. It’s become a wildly successful fundraising event and I feel so privileged to host it.
I have also started working on a new independent living facility for St. Augusine Youth Services (SAYS) in hopes to break ground later this year or early next. Since SAYS receives public assistance, they’re required to move kids out when they turn 18—regardless of where they are in school, their mental or physical health, ability to live independently, etc. It’s a real problem for which many folks aren’t aware and it’s just wrong. The purpose of the independent living facility is to provide apartment-style living to these new “adults" for 2-3 years while they acclimate into the real world of paying bills, cooking meals, doing laundry, and all of the other tasks they’re now required to do on their own. The apartments will be subsidized in order to make them affordable. I’ve been wanting to do this for many years and am really excited that we’re now working to make this a reality.
Lastly, MasterCraft Builder Group will be building the “Home For The Heart” this year which benefits Builders Care—the charitable arm of The Northeast Florida Builders Association. We are building a home in one of our newest communities, SilverLeaf, and will be donating all profits from this home to Builders Care when it sells. In order to make the contribution even larger, we’ve asked our trade partners and suppliers to discount or donate any labor and/or materials they’re able to and we’ll pass the saving along to the Builders Care donation. Our trades and suppliers have been unbelievably supportive as they always are with our charitable endeavors. We’ll hopefully reach a 6 figure donation with this effort.
One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned in life so far is that the more I give, the wealthier I become. Material things aren’t as important to me as they once were and that’s been very relieving. Instead, being known as a good steward to my community and a good person overall is way more important to me. I hope my two boys, Brandon and Tyler, will continue to be influenced by my actions so that they too will be local philanthropists one day. There’s hardly anything else that would make me more proud.
Author
St. Johns Magazine
Debbie Gaylord
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