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- 🏴 Happy Labor Day Weekend! | August 30, 2024
🏴 Happy Labor Day Weekend! | August 30, 2024
In today's edition: Parks project on hold, new taxes on November ballot, local athlete finds home in the NFL + more!
James Foote
August 30, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 13 minutes
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Good Morning, St. Augustine!
I’m James and this is the Old City Lowdown - where we march through the headlines like a peaceful protest.
Today, we've got some hot news to match the summer heat, but first, a quick programming note. The Lowdown is moving to Monday, Wednesday, and Friday delivery moving forward, however, I'm taking Labor Day off for some behind-the-scenes updates to make the newsletter even better. Thanks for your understanding, and I'll "see you" next Wednesday!
In today’s edition:
Parks projects on hold 🪧
New taxes on November ballot 💵
Local athlete finds home in the NFL 🐻
Now, let’s get to the Lowdown.
-James Foote
Publisher | Old City Lowdown
Want to get your business in the Old City Lowdown? Let’s talk.
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WEATHER
Fri • 88 🌡️ 78 | ⛅️ | 💧24% | 🍃 E 12mph
Sat • 87 🌡️ 77 | ☀️ | 💧21% | 🍃 E 13mph
Sun • 87 🌡️ 76 | ☀️ | 💧21% | 🍃 SE 12mph
THIS WEEK ON INSTAGRAM
The Surf Station turns 40!
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THE RUNDOWN
Local News that Actually Matters
🪧 DeSantis Halts State Park Development Plans Amid Public Backlash
Governor Ron DeSantis announced changes to the "Great Outdoors Initiative" after public outcry over plans to add golf courses, lodges, and pickleball courts to Florida state parks. He stated the Department of Environmental Protection will seek more community input before proceeding. In St. Johns County, proposed developments at Anastasia State Park sparked strong local opposition, including a statement from the County Commission and criticism from State Rep. Cyndi Stevenson. DeSantis emphasized the plans were not finalized and were prematurely shared. Environmental groups remain cautious but welcomed the governor's decision to reconsider the initiative's current form.
💵 SJC Voters to Decide on School Tax this November
St. Johns County voters will decide in November on two proposed tax increases to support local schools. The first measure seeks to extend a half-cent sales tax for an additional ten years to fund school construction, maintenance, and security. The second measure proposes a one-mill ($1 for each $1,000 of property’s assessed value) property tax increase to enhance teacher salaries and fund educational programs. These initiatives aim to address the county's rapid growth and retain salaries for teachers and staff. If approved, the taxes are expected to generate significant annual revenue for the school district, supporting both operational and capital expenses.
🚌 Free Beach Shuttles for Labor Day Weekend
St. Johns County is once again offering free Labor Day Weekend beach shuttles Saturday thru Monday! Shuttles are available 10AM-4PM on Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Here are the routes offered:
Cornerstone Park (1046 A1A N) ▶️ Mickler’s Landing Beachfront Park
St. Augustine Beach City Hall (2200 A1A S) ▶️ St. Johns County Ocean and Fishing Pier
Shuttles run every 20min with the final shuttles departing the beach at 4PM.
❤️🩹 SJC Resilient Launches to Expand Behavioral Health Access
SJC Resilient, created by INK! and the St. Johns County Behavioral Health Consortium, is an online platform offering mental and behavioral health resources for the St. Johns County community. The site provides educational materials, videos, counseling resources, and emergency contacts. With input from over 30 local nonprofits, it covers topics like anxiety, depression, suicide prevention, and substance abuse. Cathy Newman, INK! Executive Director, emphasizes the site's role in empowering students, families, and educators with essential tools. As a dynamic resource, SJC Resilient aims to reduce stigma, build resilience, prevent crises, and foster community connections. Visit SJCResilient.com for more information.
🚻 Treaty Park Bathrooms to be close 9/3-9/6
A quick heads up for the Treat Park frequenters. The park’s bathrooms are getting some new floors, so they’ll be out of operation for a few days next week. Expect them to re-open on or around 9/7.
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THE HUSTLE
Local Business News
🏗️ Shops at Race Track Road to Bring New Retail, Dining to Durbin Park
Hunington Properties is transforming over 14 acres near Durbin Park into the Shops at Race Track Road, located at 4560 Race Track Road, featuring two multi-tenant retail buildings and additional parcels for lease or sale. The development will include a grocery store, KFC, Another Broken Egg Café, Dutch Bros Coffee, and McDonald's. Construction has begun on the first 7,991-square-foot retail building, with leasing already underway. The second building and other parcels are also attracting interest, with 70% expected to be leased by April. Located at the heart of Durbin Park, this new shopping center will add a variety of dining and retail options to the area.
🪡 MAKR Design Studio Relocates to St. Augustine for a Fresh Start
MAKR, a design studio known for its high-quality, handcrafted products, has relocated to St. Augustine, FL. Now operating from 64 S Dixie Highway, MAKR specializes in creating unique items, such as leather goods, bags, and custom furniture, all designed to last a lifetime. Founded by Jason Gregory, the studio emphasizes quality, simplicity, and thoughtful craftsmanship. While MAKR’s new St. Augustine studio is open by appointment only, their full range of products, including new releases like the Horizon Wallet and Eyewear Sleeve, can be explored and purchased online. The move to St. Augustine marks an exciting new chapter for MAKR as it continues to innovate and grow.
Read more, courtesy of OldCityPR.com
✈️ Airport Authority Buys Land with Restrictions Near Gun Club
The St. Johns County Airport Authority purchased 22 acres from the St. Augustine Rod & Gun Club for $2.1 million, with restrictions on development near the club’s border. The land, mostly forest and wetlands, is located east of the airport's runway. The agreement preserves the tip of the peninsula adjacent to the gun club. The club, established in the 1930s, hosts events on its 10-acre property. The airport can use some of the land for stormwater infrastructure but agreed to avoid significant development to maintain the club's scenic surroundings.
SHINDIGS
What the cool kids are up to
Saturday, August 31
🧑🌾 St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market, 8:30AM-12:30PM
Every Saturday, you can enjoy fresh, local food, farm-fresh produce, handmade arts and crafts, and live entertainment under the oaks at The Amp. BYO reusable bags and remember, no pets. Free parking is available at The Amp and at The Elks Lodge. St. Augustine Amphitheatre is located at 1340C A1A South. (more info)
😆 Kevin Farley at Cafe Eleven, 7PM & 10PM (2 Shows)
Legendary comedian and producer, Kevin Farley, has two shows lined up Saturday night at Cafe Eleven. The 7PM show is sold out, but there are still tickets available for the late show at 10PM. (Tickets)
Sunday, September 1
🐦️ Guided Bird Walk at Anastasia State Park, 8:15-10AM
Join the Friends of Anastasia State Park at the Island Beach Shop for a bird-watching event. Whether you're experienced or new to birding, bring binoculars, comfy shoes, and a love for birds. Expect to see shorebirds, marsh birds, and more. $8 per vehicle, $2 per pedestrians, bicyclists. Anastasia State Park is located at 300 Anastasia Blvd. (more info)
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THE AMP
What’s going down at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre
📆 Next Five Shows:
LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN
When & where to catch live tunes
Friday, August 30
Arnold’s • Contact Buzz, 8:30PM-12:30AM
Bin 39 Wine Bar • Shawn Ryan, 1-4PM | Brooke Garwood, 4-7PM
Casa de Vino 57 • Jolie, 7-10PM
Casa Maya • Carry the Day, 7-10PM
Chez L’Amour • Ramona Duo, 7-10PM
Conch House Marina • Highway One, 4-8PM
Crabby’s Beachside • Heather Craig, 6PM
Dog Rose Brewing Co. • Billy Gilmore and Friends, 8:30PM
Fuzion 904 Eatery • Russ DeFilippis w/ the Burn Unit, 6-9PM
Guy Harvey Resort • Caleb Joye, 6-9PM
Kingfish Grill • Brian Lynskey, 6-9PM
La Cocina at San Sebastian Winery • Yael Dray, 1-4PM
Marina Munch • The Thick & Thin Band, 5-8PM
Meehan’s Irish Pub • Jimmy Bragg, 1PM (Backyard) | Dewey Via, 5:30-8:30PM (Backyard) | Mike Cook, 8PM (Pub)
Milltop Tavern • Josh “Tennessee” Worthy, 12PM | Jon Q., 4:30PM | Jon Q. & Ashton Taylor, 9PM-12AM
No Name • VersVtile, 10PM-1:30AM
Oasis • The Bones, 5-8PM | Elizabeth & Joe, 6-9PM
Pesca Vilano • Carry the Day, 6-10PM
Pierre’s Pub • Chase Fouraker + Joe Nash, 2-6PM | Livestream, 7-11PM
Prohibition Kitchen • Esh x Schief, 6-9PM | Madam, 10PM
Trade Winds Lounge • Heather Craig, 1-4:30PM | Mark Hart, 5-8PM | Hornit, 8:30PM-1:30AM
Saturday, August 31
Arnold’s • Contact Buzz, 8:30PM-12:30AM
Bin 39 Wine Bar • Damon Slaughter, 1-4PM | Cason Smith, 4-7PM
Casa de Vino 57 • Sage, 2:30PM | Dharma, 7-10PM
Casa Maya • Carry the Day, 12-3PM | Black Mango Band, 7-10PM
Chez L’Amour • Jeremy Weinglass, 7-10PM
Colonial Oak • Cam Wheaton, 7-10PM
Conch House Marina • Jimmy Parrish & the Waves, 3-7PM
Crabby’s Beachside • Ian Opolinski, 6PM
Fuzion 904 Eatery • Duffy Bishop Band, 6-9PM
Kingfish Grill • Bethany, 6-9PM
La Cocina at San Sebastian Winery • Yael Dray, 1-4PM
Marina Munch • John Winters, 12:30-3:30PM
Meehan’s Irish Pub • Havenwolf, 1PM (Backyard) | Josh “Tennessee” Worthy, 9PM (Pub)
Milltop Tavern • Scott Halls, 12PM | Adam Grayford, 4:30PM | Jon Q. Duo, 9PM-12AM
Oasis • Allen Arena, 5-8PM
Old Coast Ales • Bad Dog Mama, 2-5PM
Pesca Vilano • Carry the Day, 6-10PM
Pierre’s Pub • Chillula, 2-6PM | Chase Fouraker + Jonathan Lee & Hunter Hays, 7-11PM
Prohibition Kitchen • Tru Phonic, 10PM
St. Augustine Fish House & Oyster Co. • Dewey Via Band, 5-9PM
Trade Winds Lounge • Elizabeth Roth, 1-4:30AM | Mark Hart, 5-8PM | Hornit, 9PM-1:30AM
Sunday, September 1
September calendars are mostly yet to be released. Check with your favorite joints to see who’s playing Sunday & Labor Day Monday if you don’t see a gig below!
Bin 39 Wine Bar • Jolie, 1-4PM | Craig Smith, 4-7PM
Casa Maya • Cesar Romeo, 6-10:30PM
Dog Rose Brewing Co. • Dewey Via Band, 3:30-6:30PM
La Cocina at San Sebastian Winery • Vinny Jacobs, 1-4PM
Oasis • New Guys on the Dock, 4-8PM (Tiki Bar)
Pierre’s Pub • The Spaceheaters, 1-5PM | Green with Envy, 6-10PM
Prohibition Kitchen • Wes Register, 2-5PM | Shaney P's Miracle Extravajamza, 6-9PM
*Artists & times are subject to change. We do our best to provide you with the most up-to-date information.
SPORTS
🏈 St. Augustine’s Austin Reed signs will Chicago Bears practice squad
Former St. Augustine High School football (and lacrosse) standout, Austin Reed, signed to the Chicago Bears practice squad this week. While Austin didn’t make the 53-man roster cut after signing as an undrafted free agent with Chicago, he’s now officially on the payroll. It’s worth noting that the Bears only carried two quarterbacks on their 53-man roster, so it’s not out of the realm of possibility that he makes it to “the show” this year. Way to go, Austin, and good luck!
🏈 High School Football
St. Augustine @ Menendez, 7PM
Westside @ Tocoi Creek, 7PM
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