Local Folks: Dori & Christian Thomsen
Meet the Thomsens: Dori, a Floridian from Pensacola Beach, and Christian, a New Orleans native. They are the Riverside couple who founded Saluna Yoga + Spa in 5 Points in 2014 and who recently celebrated their tenth wedding anniversary. They met in 2004 in Jacksonville at the University of North Florida while Dori was completing […]
Animal House: Wildlife Babies May Not Need Help
The first impulse at the sight of a tiny baby bird, squirrel, flying squirrel, raccoon, possum or rabbit alone on its own, may be to scoop it up away from danger and rush to a wildlife rescue. Wildlife experts say that healthy wild babies old enough to be on their own, must be allowed to […]
For the Love of a Neighborhood: Wayne Wood
You may not know it, but if you’ve ever wandered through Riverside on a Saturday morning, you’ve no doubt appreciated the work of Dr. Wayne Wood. Wood, nicknamed the “Mayor of Riverside,” is one of the leading founders of Riverside Avondale Preservation (RAP), an organization responsible for the salvation of many of the area’s beloved […]
For the Love of a Neighborhood: Zimmermann Boulos
Few people have the moxie to leave a permanent mark on their community, but if you’re Zimmermann Boulos, you manage to do it eight-fold. Nicknamed the “King of San Marco,” Boulos has been wholly- or partially-responsible for the installation of eight pieces of public art throughout the San Marco area, including the iconic Lions’ Fountain […]
Local Folks: Kelly & Clint Ross
Kelly and Clint Ross are opticians who own Davalt Optical, a longstanding eyewear boutique in Riverside. There they fill prescription lenses, repair broken eyeglasses, take custom orders, and so much more. In addition to eyes, the Rosses have a passion for history and collectibles. So, when they’re not dressing the windows of people’s souls, they […]
Animal House: Pets & Separation Anxiety
Many businesses closed by the pandemic, and workers forced into full or partially remote employment, have returned to normal business hours, and schools re-opened. The exodus of workers and students from home has created separation anxiety for some pets who have grown accustomed to daily company, regular attention, frequent playtime and exercise. Pets exhibit signs […]
Local Folks: Joque Soskis
Long time Riverside resident Joque Soskis (who mentioned that the surname was probably shortened at Ellis Island in the 1800’s then continued his commentary with a short lesson on standardized English) was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on July 12, 1941. The quick witted Soskis remarked that makes him “about the same age as dirt.” […]
Animal House: K9s for Warriors Celebrates Award, Donates Station Dog to Local Police
K9s for Warriors has donated Buster, a sixteen-month-old Labrador retriever, to serve as a trained JSO (Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office), Station Dog. Buster was donated in honor of Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody’s presentation of the Back the Blue Award to the nonprofit. Moody presented the award in honor of the organization’s dedication to Florida’s first […]
