News Briefs for the Week of Oct. 8-14, 2026

Posted

A Notice to Our Best of Ponte Vedra Winners

An out-of-state company has been contacting Best of Ponte Vedra winners to sell commemorative plaques featuring their award and logo. Please be aware that this company is not affiliated with or endorsed by The Ponte Vedra Recorder, and we have not authorized it to sell products on our behalf.

All Best of Ponte Vedra winners will receive a complimentary certificate and window cling from the newspaper. No purchase is necessary to receive these items.

If you have questions about any communication claiming an association with The Recorder, please contact Publisher Susan Griffin at susan@pontevedrarecorder.com.

Trunk-or-Treat, Community Health Fair planned

Ascension St. Vincent’s St. Johns County will host a free Trunk-or-Treat and Community Health Fair from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, at the hospital’s campus, 205 Trinity Way, St. Johns.

Kids can enjoy Halloween fun and trick-or-treating while adults explore health education offerings, resources and screenings.

There will be free candy and prizes for the kids, food trucks and more. Costumes are encouraged, as there will be a costume contest for all ages up to 12 years old. And, of course, don't forget your treat bucket!

Free flu vaccines will also be offered at this event.

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.

Palm Valley Market open every Tuesday

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

It offers local, pesticide- and herbicide-free produce; pasture-raised chicken, eggs and pork; grass-fed and grass-finished beef; A2/A2 raw milk; bone broth; seafood; local honey; whole grain, sourdough, and gluten- and dairy-free breads; an array of baked goods; all-natural plant- and tallow-based skincare; fresh bouquets and planters; 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@PalmValleyFarmersMarket.com.

Holiday Gift Giving program needs community support

Rising costs are putting immense pressure on many families this holiday season. While the season is one of joy and celebration, many struggling Jacksonville individuals and families are at their breaking points.

The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services is calling on the community to step up and participate in this year’s Holiday Gift Giving program to brighten the holidays for local children, seniors and families.

Year after year, this program brings joy to thousands from all faiths in the Jacksonville area. JFCS caseworkers gather wish lists from children, including those recently placed in foster care, as well as seniors who may be feeling lonely during the holidays. Then, staff and volunteers provide thoughtful Chanukah, Christmas and Kwanzaa gifts to clients across Northeast Florida.

The community can help in three ways: sponsoring a wish list for an individual, making a monetary donation or hosting a toy collection drive. Those interested in sponsoring should reach out to JFCS by Nov. 25. All donated gifts and toys should be delivered to JFCS by Dec. 9.

For more information or to sponsor a child or senior, go to JFCSJax.org/Holidays.

— Compiled by Shaun Ryan