🏴‍☠️ Happy Founders Day Weekend! | September 6, 2024

In partnership with

Good Morning, St. Augustine!

I’m James and this is the Old City Lowdown - a newsletter that’s almost as action packed as Alex Morgan’s highlight reel.

While she may not be tied to St. Augustine, I’ve got to give a shoutout to the G.O.A.T. herself, Alex Morgan, who announced her retirement from professional soccer on Thursday – and some exciting news of a little one on the way! If you’re reading this, Alex (hey, a guy can dream), thanks for all the incredible memories!

My 2-year-old is two weeks into her soccer career (shoutout Soccer Shots of North Florida), so there’s a lot of soccer talk going on around here.

Anyway, back to business. Today’s edition is jam packed with some awesome St. Augustine events and live music, along with the usual general & business news.

In today’s edition:

• Sing Out Loud Festival is underway 🎸 

• Founders Day + Sister Cities Celebrations 🎂 

• Infrastructure projects, Flagler Sports & more 📈 

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.

Receive Honest News Today

Join over 4 million Americans who start their day with 1440 – your daily digest for unbiased, fact-centric news. From politics to sports, we cover it all by analyzing over 100 sources. Our concise, 5-minute read lands in your inbox each morning at no cost. Experience news without the noise; let 1440 help you make up your own mind. Sign up now and invite your friends and family to be part of the informed.

Sign up today!

WEATHER

Fri • 85 🌡️ 73 | 🌦️ | 💧36% | 🍃 WNW 7mph

Sat • 85 🌡️ 76 | 🌦️ | 💧45% | 🍃 NW 9mph

Sun • 84 🌡️ 75 | 🌧️ | 💧63% | 🍃 NE 10mph

THE RUNDOWN

Local News that Actually Matters

🚫 Osceola Lakes Development Shot Down

St. Johns County commissioners voted down a major workforce housing proposal, citing concerns about traffic and the project’s size. The Osceola Lakes plan aimed to build 640 homes on 145 acres, but locals feared it would overwhelm roads like Wildwood Drive. Supporters argued it would provide much-needed affordable housing, but opponents, including nearby residents, said the project’s price points were still out of reach for most and would further strain the already congested roads. (read more)

🏖️ Dredging Project Complete

The St. Augustine Beach renourishment project has finished, placing 2.5 million cubic yards of sand on three miles of eroded shoreline, including Anastasia State Park. The $33 million, fully federally funded project aims to protect homes, businesses, and roads from storm damage and sea level rise. St. Augustine Beach Mayor Dylan Rumrell expressed gratitude for the beach’s restoration, which is designed to provide both storm protection and economic benefits by attracting visitors. Beach tilling and demobilization will wrap up in the coming weeks. (read more)

🏦 St. Augustine Museum Awarded National Park Service Grant

The Ximenez-Fatio House Museum in St. Augustine received a $173,544 Semiquincentennial Grant from the National Park Service to support its two-year conservation project. The grant will help restore the 226-year-old coquina building in time for the 2026 celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. This historic site, located on Aviles Street, offers guided and self-guided tours and is one of St. Augustine’s few remaining coquina and tabby structures, preserving its history for future generations. (read more)

🚘️ Current Phase of SR 312 Extension Complete

After two-years, the SR 312 extension is now open to traffic. The $12 million project, funded by state and federal sources, connects South Holmes Boulevard to SR 207, with the goal of easing congestion in the area. This one-mile extension is part of a larger plan to eventually expand SR 312 to SR 16. While the current phase is complete, more improvements are in the works.

🏘️ More Veteran Housing Coming to St. Johns County

Earlier this year, The Veterans Council of St. Johns County and Home Again St. Johns teamed up to convert the Old Town Inn on Anastasia Blvd. into affordable housing for veterans. The Veterans Village project, now complete and in operation, has housed more than 35 veterans, with nearly 10 moving into rental housing. Due to this success, Home Again St. Johns is now constructing four duplexes on State Road 16, with 25% of the units reserved for veterans. The remaining units, part of the United Service Center, will serve the homeless, offering a cafeteria, laundry, showers, and even mail services. (more info)

YOUR ST. AUGUSTINE MORTGAGE EXPERT

Looking for the perfect home loan? Motto Mortgage Invictus, locally owned and operated by Navy veteran Jaren Woeppel, offers personalized service with national reach. We secure competitive rates and provide expert guidance in St. Augustine.

Ready to start your home-buying journey? Thinking about lowering payments with a refinance? Contact Jaren today at 904-409-3046 or visit mottomortgageinvictus.com for a personalized, no-obligation consultation.

THE HUSTLE

Local Business News

🥃 St. Augustine Distillery Receives Global Honors

The St. Augustine Distillery has gone beyond being just a great distillery or tourist attraction—it’s now recognized as one of the best in the world! At the recent American Distilling Institute conference, they were awarded the prestigious Bubble Cap Award for Distillery of the Year. This honor celebrates their incredible innovation, community involvement, and top-quality spirits. Co-founder Philip McDaniel shared how their commitment to excellence and passion for creating memorable guest experiences has fueled their success. They continue to push boundaries, offer unique bourbons, and lead the charge in growing Florida’s craft spirits industry! (more info)

🪧 County Searching for New Tourism Marketing Firm

Local businesses have concerns as the St. Johns County marketing firm contract is set to expire on September 30. At a recent meeting, commissioners discussed hiring an interim marketing firm for up to six months to avoid service gaps. The county plans to explore long-term options while ensuring tourism promotion continues smoothly during the transition. (read more)

🎭️ The Shell at St. Augustine a Step Closer to Finding Home

St. Augustine arts leaders are closing in on a site for a new performing arts center, with Florida Memorial University Foundation's 70-acre Holmes Boulevard site as the top choice. The project could partner with the state's first official Black History museum, planned for nearby. Vavarde Strategic Funding and the St. Augustine EpiCentre Alliance are working together on this initiative, with support from local arts groups. Other potential locations include a 51-acre site and World Golf Village. The goal is to revitalize West Augustine and provide a hub for performances, exhibitions, and community events without relying on county funding. (read more)

SHINDIGS

What the cool kids are up to

September is slammed pack with awesome events - everything from the official start of the month-long Sing Out Loud Festival to the commemoration of Founders Day and celebrating 100-years of our sister city relationship with Aviles, Spain. Check it out below!

🎸 Sing Out Loud begins with Local Artist Showcases!

These free concerts are a highlight of the Sing Out Loud Festival, featuring local talent across a range of genres like indie rock, bluegrass, hip hop, country, and more. Over three weekends in September leading up to the Live Wildly Showcase September 21-22, venues throughout St. Augustine will host performances, welcoming music lovers of all ages. Don’t miss this chance to dive into our awesome local music scene!

All Sing Out Loud Local Artist Showcase events are highlighted in the Live Music Lowdown towards the bottom of this email. I will keep you in the loop on all of the great local music going down in St. Aug this month.

🎵 Tejador in Concert on Friday & Sunday

Aviles, Spain-based folk band, Tejador, is helping St. Augustine celebrate 100-years of sister cityhood with a weekend full of performances. Be sure to catch the Asturian folk music at Colonial Oak tonight, or at Plaza de la Constitución on Sunday at 2PM.

Friday, September 6

🏦 Founders Day Wreath Ceremony at City Hall, 10AM

The Founders Day Wreath Ceremony is sure to be a memorable event for St. Augustinians. Head down to the Pedro Menendez Statue in front of City Hall as the City of St. Augustine will celebrate 100 years of friendship with sister city Avilés, Spain by laying a commemorative wreath. Mayor Nancy Sikes-Kline will also officially welcome the visiting Avilés delegation.

🖼️ First Friday Art Walk: Fall Members Show, 5-8PM

The First Friday Art Walk is upon us, with over 25 galleries opening their doors to showcase diverse artwork (and refreshments… yum). Visitors can explore a variety of styles and mediums, including paintings, photography, ceramics, and more, created by local and national artists, many of whom are present to discuss their work. The event spans Historic Downtown, Uptown, and Anastasia Island and is sponsored by the St. Augustine Art Association. (more info & art walk map)

Saturday, September, 7

🧑‍🌾 St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market, 8:30AM-12:30PM

Who doesn’t love an awesome farmers market? Couldn’t be me. This Saturday, and 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)

🎂 Founders Day Commemoration - Happy 459th, St. Augustine!

Celebrate Founders Day on September 7, 2024! The festivities kick off at 10 a.m. with a reenactment of Menendez and his crew landing at Mission Nombre de Dios. Enjoy a Catholic Mass, a grand procession, and a reenactment of the first Thanksgiving meal at the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. The day wraps up with an encampment and weapons demonstrations. Most events are free; some require regular park admission. (more info)

Sunday, September 8

🎉 Aviles Street Festival, 12-9PM

Be sure to check out the Aviles Street Festival, celebrating the 100th anniversary of St. Augustine’s historic ties with Aviles, Spain! This free, family-friendly event features live music, dance performances, art, and delicious food. Explore the charming Aviles Street, packed with galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and museums. Presented by the St. Johns Cultural Council, the City of St. Augustine, the St. Augustine Art Association, and Aviles Street merchants and museums. (more info)

🎨 Plein Air Paint Out on Aviles Street, 12PM-9PM

The St. Augustine Art Association and St. Johns Cultural Council are hosting a one-day event in conjunction with the Aviles Street Festival. Plein Air Paint Out celebrates St. Augustine’s rich art history where you can watch selected artists capture the city's Old-World charm and architecture. You can also visit the St. Augustine Art Association’s gallery to view or purchase works-in-progress and completed paintings. Don’t miss this unique chance to experience art in action! (more info)

WAIT! SHOW US SOME LOVE?

We’d love to hear what you like about the Lowdown!

THE AMP

What’s going down at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre

📆 Next Five Shows:

• Sep 6 | Cody Jinks w/ Jake Worthington | Tickets
• Sep 19 | Trampled by Turtles w/ Crowe Boys | SOLD OUT
• Sep 26 | The Sisters of Mercy w/ Blaqk Audio | Tickets
• Sep 27 | Jewel + Melissa Ethridge | SOLD OUT
• Sep 28 | Midland w/ Colby Acuff & Carter Faith | Tickets

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

When & where to catch live tunes

Bold gigs indicate part of Sing Out Loud Local Artist Showcase. Be sure to support our great local acts!

Friday, September 6

• Arnold’s • Last Stand, 8:30PM-12:30AM

• Barley Republic • Velvet 45, 9PM-1AM

• Bin 39 Wine Bar • Damon Slaughter, 1-4PM | Jolie, 4-7PM

• Casa de Vino 57 • Dharma, 7-10PM

• Colonial Oak Music Park • Fond Kiser, 5PM | Kevin Cunningham, 6:15PM | SouthPaw, 7:30PM | The Rip Currents, 9PM

• Conch House Marina • Tabasco Bros., 4-8PM

• Crabby’s Beachside • Beth Vandal, 6-10PM

• Dog Rose Brewing Co. • Rancho La Chua, 7PM | Matt Megrue, 8PM | The Shellcrackers, 10PM

• Fuzion 904 Eatery • Burn Unit, 6-9PM

• Kingfish Grill • Charlie Ellis, 6-9PM

• La Cocina at San Sebastian Winery • Tony Scozzaro, 1-4PM

• Marina Munch • Ollie Twist, 5-8PM

• Meehan’s Irish Pub • Josh “Tennessee” Worthy, 1PM (Backyard) | Heather Craig Duo, 9PM (Pub)

• Milltop Tavern • Michael Bo Griner, 12PM | Eric Groves, 4:30PM | Chuck & Eliot Duo, 9PM

• No Name • The Space Heaters, TBA

• Oasis • The Bones, 6-9PM (Tiki Bar) | New Guys on the Dock, TBA (Upstairs)

• Pesca Vilano • Still Steady, 6-10PM

• Pierre’s Pub • Jonathan Lee Duo, 2-6PM | Green with Envy, 7-11PM

• Prohibition Kitchen • Bad Dog Mama, 6PM | Lunar Thunder, 10PM

• Salt Life Food Shack • Colin Kosco, 6-10PM

• Sarbez! • AC Deathstrike, Half My Home, Zalongo, Groundhag | Show starts @ 8PM

• Shanghai Nobby’s • Tides, 8PM | DigDog, 9PM | The Cosmic Highway, 10PM | 86 Hope, 11PM

• Trade Winds Lounge • Heather Craig, 1-4:30PM | Mark Hart, 5-8PM | Blistur, 8:30PM-1:30AM

Saturday, September 7

• Arnold’s • Bedrock Band, 8PM-12:30AM

• Bin 39 Wine Bar • Banjo Brown, 1-4PM | Faith Alene, 4-7PM

• Casa de Vino 57 • Wayne & Friends, 2:30-5:30PM | Landfall, 7-10PM

• Colonial Oak Music Park • Yael, 2PM | Luis Mario, 3:15PM | Stella Soul, 4:30PM | The Toxic Cats, 5:45PM | LPT, 7PM | Tejedor, 8PM

• Conch House Marina • Highway One, 3-7PM

• Crabby’s Beachside • Evan D, 6-10PM

• Dog Rose Brewing Co. • Pecha Kucha Night with: Michael Lagasse, 7PM | Shayla Nelson, 8PM | Trey Brewer, 9PM

• Fuzion 904 Eatery • Crab Creek Band, 6-9PM

• Kingfish Grill • Colton McKenna, 6-9PM

• La Cocina at San Sebastian Winery • Tony Scozzaro, 1-4PM

• Marina Munch • John Winters + Mark Ritchey, 12-4PM

• Meehan’s Irish Pub • Trevor Compton, 1PM (Backyard) | Spade McQuade, 8PM (Pub)

• Milltop Tavern • Kaleb Dougan, 12PM | Charlie Ellis, 4:30PM | Chuck & Eliot Duo, 9PM

• No Name • LoopManDan, 2-6PM | Big Key, 10PM

• Oasis • Ya El Duo, 5-8PM (Tiki Bar)

• Pesca Vilano • DeeJay Natural, 6-10PM

• Pierre’s Pub • Christian Powers + Buddy Crump, 2-6PM | Hays the Band, 7-11PM

• Prohibition Kitchen • Toots Lorraine & The Traffic, 6PM | Ramona + the RIOT, 10PM

• Salt Life Food Shack • John Broyler, 6-10PM

• Sarbez! • Knives, 8PM | Flag on Fire, 9PM | Liquid Limbs, 10PM | Jackie Stranger, 11PM

• Shanghai Nobby’s • Uncle Marty, 9PM | Terror Pigeon, 10PM | Kemi$try, 11PM

• Spinster Abbott’s • The Morrow Family Band, 5PM | Kirk Whalen, 6:15PM | Taylor Roberts, 7:30PM | Taylor Olin, 8:45PM

• Trade Winds Lounge • Elizabeth Roth, 1-4:30PM | Mark Hart, 5-8PM | Blistur, 9PM-1:30AM

Sunday, September 8

• Bin 39 Wine Bar • Jolie, 1-4PM | Shyla Macaluso, 4-7PM

• Casa de Vino 57 • Sage, 4-7PM

• Casa Maya • Cesar Romero, 6-10:30PM

• Colonial Oak Music Park • Madison Hughes, 5PM | JC Hatfield Trio, 6PM | Jam-ology House Band, 7PM | Sparks in the Garden, 8PM

• Conch House Marina • Bill & Trev’s Excellent Duo, 3-7PM

• Crabby’s Beachside • Patrick Sammy, 12-4PM

• Dog Rose Brewing Co. • Dewey Via Band, 3:30-6:30PM

• Kingfish Grill • Bad Endings, 5-8PM

• La Cocina at San Sebastian Winery • Vinny Jacobs, 1-4PM

• Marina Munch • Reminisce, TBA

• Meehan’s Irish Pub • Ian Kelly, 1PM (Backyard) | Spade McQuade, 6PM (Pub)

• Milltop Tavern • Shawn Ryan, 12PM | Ashton Taylor, 4:30PM

• Old Coast Ales • Bad Dog Mama, 2-5PM

• Pesca Vilano • Chillakaya, 5-9PM

• Pierre’s Pub • The Space Heaters, 1-5PM | Adam Latiff, 6-10PM

• Prohibition Kitchen • Shaney P's Miracle Extravajamza, 6-9PM

• Salt Life Food Shack • Caleb Joye, 6-10PM

• Spinster Abbott’s • DL is Ok, 6PM | The Dewars, 7:30PM

• Trade Winds Lounge • Keith Godwin & The Rio Grande Band, 1-4:30PM | Crawford Boyd’s Acoustic Anomaly, 5-8PM | Mike Johnson + Brad Burns, 9PM

_{*Artists & times are subject to change. We do our best to provide you with the most up-to-date information.}

OLD CITY SPORTS

🦁 Flagler Scores & Upcoming Events

Women’s Volleyball (0-0)
• 9/6 vs. Georgian Court (Daytona Beach), 3PM
• 9/7 vs. UNC Pembroke (Daytona Beach), 11AM
• 9/7 at Embry-Riddle, 6PM

Men’s Soccer (0-0-0)
• 9/7 vs. Newberry, 1PM

Women’s Soccer (0-0-1)
• 9/7 at Converse, 3PM
• Previous: 9/5 at Limestone, T 1-1

🏈 High School Football

Friday, September 6
• St. Augustine vs. Bolles, 7PM
• Menendez at Beachside, 7PM
• Tocoi Creek vs. Bishop Kenny, 7PM

👋 Thanks for reading! If you found it useful, consider sharing it with your favorite local musician.

📱 Keep up with the Lowdown on Instagram. Send comments & suggestions to [email protected].

🖼️ Get your business in the Old City Lowdown. Let’s talk about how we can help you earn more customers.