News Briefs for the Week of Oct. 2-8, 2025

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Fill a bag for $10 at book sale

Starting Friday, Oct. 3, grab a bag and fill it with as many books as you can at the Ponte Vedra Beach Library, all for just $10! But hurry; this special sale ends Saturday, Oct. 4, at noon. Don’t miss this chance to stock up on great reads at an unbeatable price.



Fishing clinic offered at GTM Reserve

Join the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve for a five-week Fishing 101 clinic, beginning Thursday, Oct. 2. This hands-on program is perfect for beginners looking to learn the basics of fishing. 

Meet at the GTM Research Reserve Visitor Center, 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach. The sessions are 10 to 11:30 a.m. Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30.

Register at gtmnerr.org/calendar. The cost is $175 for members of the Friends of GTM Research Reserve, $225 for nonmembers.



Birding course offered

Join this five-week course on birding, “If You Can Name It, You Can Love It,” starting Friday, Oct. 3, at Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve. The course dates are 10 to 11:30 a.m. Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31.

Learn about what makes the area supportive of many bird species and how to use birding applications to enhance your ability to identify birds and create a personal bird list. You will also practice your skills in the field.

The price for the course is $175 for members of Friends of the GTM Reserve and $225 for nonmembers.

Register at: gtmnerr.org/calendar.



Farmers market open every Friday

The Ponte Vedra Friday Farmers Market takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Friday at Palm Valley Outdoors, 377 S. Roscoe Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach, offering fresh produce, local farm goods and a welcoming space to connect with neighbors and small businesses.

This farmers market features fresh, organically grown produce; Florida grass-fed beef and pork; real local honey; pasture-raised chicken and eggs; wholegrain breads; gluten-free sourdough bread; natural botanical skincare; creations by local artisans and more in a family-friendly atmosphere.


Guided exploration planned

Join volunteers at the Guana Tolomato Matanzas (GTM) National Estuarine Research Reserve for a guided exploration hike from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 4.

Learn about the Guana Peninsula’s natural biodiversity, expansive cultural history, vital estuarine resources and current efforts to protect these resources.

Meet at the GTM Research Reserve Trailhead Pavilion (west of Guana Dam), 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach.

The event is free but parking is $3 per vehicle. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Hat, insect repellent, water and sunscreen are also recommended. 

Register at gtmnerr.org/calendar.



Explore Guana Reserve after dark

Experience the GTM Trails after dark! Enjoy exclusive after-hours access for a peaceful, self-guided moonlight hike at the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve from 8 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4.

Meet at the GTM Research Reserve Trailhead, 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach.

Pre-registration is $10 (credit card online) and $20 in cash the day of the event. Register at gtmnerr.org/calendar/moonlight-hike-2. Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes. Insect repellent, water, flashlights or headlamps are recommended.



Essential tremor meeting is Oct. 7

First Coast Essential Tremor: Meet, Greet & Educate is set for 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, at Baptist HealthPlace in Nocatee, 400 Colonnade Drive, unit 130, Ponte Vedra.

The meeting will feature an informative presentation by Kristen Kowall, representative for the Move-D brace for people with essential tremor or Parkinson’s. Kowell will show how the brace can help mitigate the impact of tremors on everyday tasks. To RSVP or ask questions, contact Jan Kary at jkary@verizon.net.



Palm Valley Market every Tuesday

The Palm Valley Market is open every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

It offers organically grown produce, pasture-raised chicken, eggs and pork; grass-fed and finished beef; local honey; raw milk; bone broth; whole grain, sourdough and gluten- and dairy-free sourdough breads; an array of baked goods; all-natural plant- and animal-based skincare; local artisans; and more. This charming venue located in the heart of Palm Valley affords customers both an indoor and an open-air shopping experience. Palm Valley Market — Palm Valley Community Center, 148 Canal Blvd.

For more information, email info@PalmValleyMarket.com.

— Compiled by Shaun Ryan