Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Hot Cars No Place for Pets - Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island

Hot cars no place for pets

By Heather A. Perry, News-Leader


For tips on keeping your animal companions safe and healthy during summer, visit www.mydogiscool.com.
Now that hot weather is upon us, it's time again to recognize the danger posed to pets by the rising temperatures.

According to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, or PETA, the temperature inside a vehicle can reach 160 degrees in a matter of minutes on a 90-degree day.

"The general rule of thumb is it's never a good idea to leave a pet in a car," said Dr. David Mersereau of Four Paws Pet Clinic in Yulee.

"In Florida the temperatures get too high too quickly. Even with the windows lowered, you don't get enough ventilation in a car that's parked. Dogs are not able to sweat so the only way they relieve excess heat is by panting."

Additional signs of hyperthermia may include acting unsteady, staggering and eyes glazing over.

"Sometimes the dog's gums get deep red or purple and they often feel hot to the touch."

Pet owners who believe their dog is suffering from hyperthermia should take immediate action to lower their body temperature by applying cool water, not cold, and offering them water to drink.

"I strongly recommend seeing a vet right away because heat stroke can be fatal," said Mersereau. "The best treatment is IV fluids because this cools them down at the core."


Leaving pets unattended in a vehicle isn't just dangerous, it's illegal. Florida deems it a third-degree felony to leave an animal unattended in a parked car with no shelter from the heat. Violators may be given up to five years in prison, a $10,000 fine or both.

It's not just pets in cars that are in danger of heatstroke during summer. Outdoor animals suffer in extreme weather, too.

"All outdoor dogs in Nassau County should have available shelter that is closed on three sides and has a roof. This structure should preferably be under shade because if you've ever been inside a shed in the summer that sits directly in the sun, you know it's awfully hot in there," said Mersereau, who advocates fencing as opposed to chaining a dog.

"I've seen dogs come in with injuries to their legs and feet as a result of becoming tangled in the chain. Also, if another dog comes into the yard and attacks them, they have nowhere to go to escape the other animal."

Chaining a dog to a tree or tether with no shelter in extreme temperatures is considered animal cruelty and is punishable under the same laws governing pets in a car.

Another thing to consider during summer's warmer temperatures is outdoor activity. Although dogs often enjoy running beside their jogging owners or going along for a bike ride, be sure to limit these activities to the early morning or evening hours. If you've just got to bring Fido along during your morning jog, be sure to carry enough water to share with him.

Consider leaving pets at home during outdoor festivals. While you may think your pet enjoys the socialization, chances are he'll become dehydrated or uncomfortable as temperatures rise, or burn his feet on the hot pavement or asphalt.



Sidewalks and streets aren't the only hazards to dogs' sensitive paws. Trans-porting dogs in the bed of a pickup truck can lead to serious injury. Metal heats to dangerous temperatures under the Florida sun and can easily scorch tender paws. Animals can also fall out of the truck during a sudden stop or choke if they jump out while tied.

To report an incident of pets left in a car or other instances of animal cruelty, call Nassau County Animal Services at 491-7440. After hours or emergencies, call 498-0824. In Fernandina Beach, call Fernandina Beach Animal Control at 491-0122.

To learn more about the dangers of chaining your dog, visit unchainyourdog.org.




Story created Jun 08, 2009 - 12:32:29 PDT.

The Chamber - Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee - June Business After Hours

Business After Hours at Oyster Bay Yacht Club in Fernandina Beach, FL
June 18th from 5-7pm
Visit The Chamber Website for more details!

Business After Hours - Camden Chamber of Commerce (including St. Marys and Kingsland, GA)

Business After Hours at BHosted in St. Marys, GA
June 18th from 5-7pm
Visit www.camdenchamber.com for more details!

Scoop and Events in Downtown St. Marys, GA

July 4th River Cruise
Board the Cumberland Princess at 7:00 PM and cruise the river to Cumberland Island and return to St. Marys and enjoy the fireworks display from the best view in town, The River! Tickets are $20 per person and can be purchased at the St. Marys Downtown Development Authority. 912-882-8111. (The event is sponsored by St. Marys Kiwanis Club and will offer no refunds).


P.A.W.S For A Cause Pooch Walk & Show
P.A.W.S. - Providing Abused Women Shelter will host this 1st annual benefit for Camden House on Saturday, June 6 from 8-2 PM at the Howard Gilman Waterfront Park in St. Marys. There will be Dog Contests, A Rally Course, Face Painting and more. For info call 912-673-7770 or Pet Supplies "Plus" at 912-882-2225.

Be Creative @ Your Library - St. Marys Public Library Vacation Reading Program 2009
Wednesday, June 10 at 10 AM Ron Anglin will perform his Juggling Act "Quite a Catch". Visit the St. Marys Library this summer for all of the unique programs. No registration required and free for all ages. 912-882-4800. Ask for info to join the Vacation Reading Club (May 26-July 25 read 25 books or 10 hours to earn a reading certificate and other prizes).

Farragut Films Brings Home Best Fan Film Award
Starship Farragut, an independent film project based on the
original series of Star Trek, won "Best Fan Film of 2009" at the Wrath of Con science fiction conference and film festival in Panama City Beach, Florida recently. Starship Farragut won the award for its latest film, "A Rock and a Hard Place," and last year, won the same award for its second film, "For Want of a Nail." Farragut films was established in 2004 and has studios in various cities including Historic St Marys. Visit www.starshipfarragut.com.

Father's Day Gifts @ Market on the Square
Visit Market on the Square (100 Osborne Street) for all of your GA Bull Dog Father's Day Items! Find sunglasses, wallets, car tags and more. Mention the Scoop and receive 20% off any one GA Bulldog item. Not a GA Bulldog fan... pick up dad some fudge, a straw hat, his favorite candies or more. 912-882-2215.

Indoor Yard Sale...
Find bargains no matter what the weather from 9-2 pm at St. Marys Antique Mall (921 Osborne Street) on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month. Or if you're looking for a spot to sell your vintage collectables this is the place for you. Spaces available on a first come first serve basis. Call 912-576-2777.


Camp Survivor Summer Day Camp
Registration for this years fun filled summer day camp has begun. Register at Camden Recreation center or visit www.upthecreektrips.com. One week sessions begin June 1 and run through June 26. Camp times are from 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday for ages 5-12. Call 912-882-0911 for more information.

Sassy Ladies Boutique Summer Camps
Date: June 9-12 and 16-19
Times: 10AM-12noon
Price: Per class or per week-call for details. (912) 882-7867
Location: 555 Charlie Smith Sr. Hwy, Ste 1, Saint Marys, GA 31558

Each day will have a different activity or event for your child. Sign up for the days you are interested in or for the whole week. Activities will include: no-sewing projects, cooking, making a keychain, reading with Herrington (the Seeing Eye dog), card making (for Father's day), and craft and chocolate.

Camden Printing Special
Visit Camden Printing (2402 Osborne Street) during June for their Business Card special. Purchase two sets of Full Color Business Cards and receive 50% off the total, all sizes, styles, finishes and quantity. StarMarque Business Cards are also included. 912-882-4731 or sales@camdenprint.com.

Mindful of These Our Many Blessings...
Get your copy of this social history of Camden County's people written by two local writers: Rosa Lee Kelley & Sharon Bowen. Copies can be purchased at Once Upon A Bookseller 912-882-7350, Mane Cutters 912-882-9336, The Cottage Shop 912-882-9171 or the St. Marys Visitors Center 912-882-4000 all in St. Marys.

St. Marys Community Market
Saturday's 9 AM - 1 PM. 206 Osborne Street (Tribune & Georgian Parking Lot). www.stmcmarket.wordpress.com

SCORE - Counselors to America's Small Business
Does your business need to SCORE? Call the local SCORE office for an appointment at 912-882-3583. Counseling Sessions are held every Wednesday from 10-2 PM by appointment only. Existing businesses can benefit from advice on cash flow, marketing and new businesses can be advised on concept feasibility.

St. Marys Dining
*Marianne's Sterlings Southern Cafe is launching new lunch, dinner and dessert menus coming soon. Visit www.sterlingssoutherncafe.com to view menus and track Marianne's upcoming trip to Vietnam on their blog. 912-882-3430.

*Market on the Square now offers 24 flavors of ice cream, low fat yogurt and no sugar added ice cream! Visit for their many treats 912-882-2215.

*The Mill Seafood Bar & Grill 912-882-5659. Call the Mill for their weekly specials.
*Seagle's Cafe now open for lunch Friday through Sunday and for dinner Tuesday through Saturday. 912-882-2472.

*Silver Star Steakhouse 912-882-1485. New Lunch Salad Express Menu (served in 15 minutes or less or you receive a free non-alcoholic beverage).

To Preview St. Marys Restaurants Menus Click Here! TIMES, PRICES AND MENUS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT OWNER'S DISCRETION!


St. Marys DDA
400 Osborne Street
St. Marys GA 31558
912.882.8111

Intercoastal Wine Company & Historic Fernandina Beach Downtown Events - Amelia Island

The summer season has started and the Intercoastal Wine Company has several upcoming events to add to your calendars.

Friday June 5th, 6-8pm- "Sounds on Centre" is back after the May hiatus. Stop downtown, enjoy the music, and come in for a free wine tasting!

Thursday June 11, 5-8pm- "Pirates and Other Notables" art show and reception featuring portraits by local artist Paul Massing. Paul will be here to discuss his art and meet and greet the public. There will be a free wine tasting and snacks. Stop by to say hello to Paul and support a fine local artist.

Saturday June 13, 5:30-8:30pm- Second Saturdays "Artrageous Artwalk". Support your local art shops, artists and galleries by coming downtown and participating in the monthly gallery hop. Stop in here at Intercoastal Wine for a free tasting of some fantastic wine while you are making the rounds!

Thursday June 18, 5:30-7pm- Wine tasting featuring Tapha Sears of Premier Wine. Tapha will be here to pour and present 5 wonderful wines from the Premier portfolio. There will be a $5 cover charge refundable with the purchase of a featured tasting wine. Details still in the works (at press time?) more later...

Saturday June 27, 8-11pm- MPact, the fabulous group from Jacksonville will be here to play their exceptional mix of jazz, soul and r&b. The cover for this night of entertainment is only $5. Mark your calendar for this special evening of entertainment. Cash bar.

Wine of the Month for June is Rotari Italian brut sparkling wine with the special deal of buy one, get one free. At $22, this translates to $11/btl for a great sparkling to chill down and sip during the hot summer days. Stock up now!

We now have Cakebread Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon in limited supply at exceptional prices. This is a one time only deal so hurry while our supply lasts.

Our June special- California Syrahs are 10% off all month long. It may seem too hot to drink them now but they will lay down nicely for those winter months.

Don't forget Wednesday is seniors day- 10% off entire stock for seniors all day long!

Every day, 5% off 6 bottles, 10% off case sales and 15% off 3 or more cases. Also, give us a call and we'll do our best to find that wine that you MUST have!!!

Finally, two personal notes:

Please consider attending a Chamber Music Festival concert. I, (Teena) had the pleasure of attending the "Candlelight Concert" at Ft. Clinch State Park. It was an inspirational and moving evening of beautiful music. Amelia Island/Fernandina Beach is fortunate to host such a wonderful event. Events in June run until the 14th. Go to www.aicmf.com for details.

Last, all of us here at Intercoastal Wine Company were saddened by the loss of our fellow downtown merchant and friend, Sid Sax. It was our pleasure to know Sid and our deepest sympathy goes out to his loving wife Susi.

As always, our downtown is a special, vibrant part of our community and we count on the support of all of our fellow "islanders" to keep us here and growing. We appreciate your business, keep us in mind during your busy summer schedule!

Cheers!

Teena, Carlos and Bob

Amelia River Cruises & Cumberland Sound Ferry Designated Official East Coast Greenway Connection & Nominated for Phoenix Award

Amelia River Cruises & Cumberland Sound Ferry
Designated Official East Coast Greenway Connection & Nominated for Phoenix Award

Cumberland Sound Ferry has been designated an official connection as part of the East Coast Greenway. On May 15, 2009, Kevin McCarthy and Willie Sweatt were informed that the Bald Eagle, an 80 passenger ferry boat to and from Fernandina Beach, Florida and St. Marys, Georgia has been formally recognized as the final connection in the East Coast Greenway.

This connection now links cyclists non-stop from Maine to Key West, Florida. The Cumberland Sound Ferry is equipped to handle bicyclists and pets, alike. On the heels of this announcement, Kevin McCarthy was also notified that the Cumberland Sound Ferry has been nominated for The Society of American Travel Writers Phoenix Award.

The Phoenix Award recognizes organizations whose efforts significantly contribute to the conservation, preservation and beautification of the travel area involved; as well as enhancing travel and tourism in the area.

Cumberland Sound Ferry Service is an outgrowth of Amelia River Cruises. It began 3-day-a-week operations during the summer of 2008. It carries up to 80 passengers and bicycles between Fernandina Beach, Florida and St. Marys, Georgia. The service re-connects these historic port towns by scheduled water service for the first time in 92 years. It facilitates day trips, overnight visits, help to extend visitor stays at both ends of its service, and eliminates the need for a 30-mile trip by car, or dangerously across a narrow two-lane road without shoulder, 35 miles by bicycle. By spring 2009, service has increased to six days a week.


The Cumberland Sound Ferry runs six days a week (Tuesday through Sunday), departing Fernandina Beach, Florida at 10 a.m, 1 p.m., and 4 p.m. (special late ferry on Saturdays at 8 p.m.). Return trips depart St. Marys, Georgia at 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., and 5:30 p.m. (special late ferry on Saturdays at 9 p.m.). The ferry links two historic waterfront towns of Fernandina Beach, Florida and St. Marys, Georgia and provides water-bound access to the Cumberland Island Ferry out of St. Marys, Georgia.

Reservations are required due to limited seating. Press, RSVP's and inquiries can be directed to marketing coordinator, Lori Hoerl, (904) 491-7617, via email at lorbell1@aol.com or via our website at www.ameliarivercruises.com.

Website: Amelia River Cruises
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East Coast Greenwa