🇺🇸 Never Forget | September 11, 2024

Good Morning, St. Augustine!

I’m James, and this is the Old City Lowdown, coming to you on the 23rd anniversary of the September 11th attacks.

As the years pass, it’s easy for the intensity of that day’s emotions to fade away. Yet, we all have a story: we knew a firefighter at the World Trade Center, had a relative at the Pentagon, or a friend on American Flight 11.

The scars from 9/11 remain, though perhaps less visible now. While time heals all wounds, it is paramount to honor the humanity we lost that day and those whose struggles continue as a result of their sacrifice.

May we never forget.

____________________

I’d also like to take a moment to remember the life and contributions of one of the greatest performers of our time, James Earl Jones, who passed away on Monday at the age of 93.

I’ll always remember James Earl Jones as Admiral Greer in The Hunt for Red October (… that torpedo did not self-destruct. You heard it hit the hull. And I... was never here), but he may be best known for his portrayal of Terence Mann in Field of Dreams - a brilliant take on a fictional version of J.D. Salinger.

People will come, Ray.

In today’s edition:

• Countywide 9/11 Remembrance Ceremonies 🕯️

• The Amp Earns HUGE Nomination 🥇 

• Our State Parks Superhero 🦸 

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.

WEATHER

Wed • 81 🌡️ 77 | ⛈️ | 💧96% | 🍃 E 17mph

Thu • 83 🌡️ 77 | 🌧️ | 💧55% | 🍃 E 12mph

ONE BIG THING

9/11 CEREMONY OF REMEMBERENCE

The City of St. Augustine will hold its annual 9/11 remembrance ceremony this morning at the Fire Department’s main station, 101 Malaga Street, starting at 8:30AM. The 15-minute event includes the presentation of colors, remarks from Fire Chief Carlos Aviles, and a moment of silence at 8:45AM. The historic “Striking the Four 5’s” bell ringing will honor the firefighters and others who lost their lives on 9/11. Following the ceremony, new firefighters will be sworn in during a pinning ceremony. (more info)

Additional 9/11 Ceremonies in St. Johns County

9/11 Memorial Tribute Climb (Palm Coast)
200 Ocean Crest Dr., Palm Coast, FL 32137
Registration: 7:45AM, Ceremony: 8:15AM
Website: 911memorialclimb.com (Free)

9/11 Remembrance Ceremony (Palatka)
Riverfront Park Amphitheatre
102 N 1st St., Palatka, FL 32177
Ceremony: 9:50AM

Orange Park 9/11 Ceremony
2042 Park Ave., Orange Park, FL 32073
Ceremony: 10:00AM

9/11 Candlelight Memorial Service (Palm Coast)
Heroes Memorial Park
2860 Palm Coast Parkway NW, Palm Coast, FL 32137
Ceremony: 6:30PM

THE RUNDOWN

Local News that Actually Matters

🌳 James Gaddis - the whistleblower hero that helped save our parks

Following the announcement of Florida’s 2024-25 Great Outdoors Initiative, James Gaddis, a cartographer with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Office of Park Planning, was fired for leaking development plans at nine state parks. Gaddis revealed proposals for golf courses, hotels, and other projects that would harm sensitive habitats in parks like Anastasia and Jonathan Dickinson. His whistleblowing led to his dismissal, with the department citing unauthorized information release. Despite this, Gaddis remains firm in his actions and has gained public and political support from those opposing the developments. (read more)

🗣️ Public Input: Citywide Vulnerability Assessment

The City of St. Augustine invites the public to a meeting on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at 5:00pm in The Alcazar Room at City Hall (75 King St.) to provide input on the ongoing Citywide Vulnerability Assessment. This study, funded by a $500,000 grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, aims to evaluate potential impacts from flooding and sea level rise on community assets. Attendees will review preliminary results and share feedback to help shape future adaptation projects. (more info)

♻️ North City Drop Off Recycling Center closed until Friday

Starting Monday, September 9, the North City recycling drop-off at 323 San Marco Avenue will be temporarily closed as the City of St. Augustine performs lift station repairs. Both the single-stream and glass recycling dumpsters will be removed through Friday, September 13. Residents can use other drop-off locations during this time, including spots in Lincolnville, Anastasia Island, West City, and St. Augustine Beach. For more details on recycling or to ask questions, you can contact the Solid Waste Division at 904-825-1049 or visit their website for information on the Glass Recycle Program. (more info)

📚️ Celebrate Library Card Sign-Up Month this September!

St. Johns County Public Library System is rolling out a fresh, redesigned library card and an exciting “Community Connections” discount program, offering exclusive deals at over 30 local businesses. Simply show your library card to unlock these great offers! Whether you’re checking out books, streaming e-resources, or attending programs, the library is your hub for learning and growth. Don’t have a card yet? It’s free and easy for all county residents! Visit www.sjcpls.org to explore the full list of discounts and discover all the library has to offer! (more info)

🪧 New Landmarks on Aviles Street commemorating Sister Cityhood

The City of St. Augustine celebrated 100 years of friendship with Aviles, Spain, the birthplace of its founder, Pedro Menéndez, by unveiling two new historical markers on Aviles Street, the city’s oldest street. The markers highlight the deep connection between the two cities, a relationship that began in 1924 when delegates from St. Augustine visited Aviles. On Sunday, Spanish delegates came to celebrate this century-long bond. The markers, along with a new art installation, help residents and visitors alike learn more about the shared history that makes St. Augustine so unique. (more info)

🎷 Concerts in the Plaza series extended for Hispanic Heritage Month

St. Augustine’s free summer music series, Concerts in the Plaza, has been extended through September 26 to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and the city’s 100-year connection with Avilés, Spain! Enjoy Carry the Day’s Spanish Pop and Latin Jazz fusion on the 19th, and experience ZaZa Flamenca’s Gypsy Jazz and Flamenco flair on the 26th. All concerts start at 6:00 p.m., with free shuttle rides available via the STAR Downtown Circulator. Concerts in the Plaza events are always shared in the Lowdown’s live music calendar towards the bottom of the newsletter.

THE HUSTLE

Local Business News

🎸 The Amp nominated for epic award

The St. Augustine has once again been nominated by the International Entertainment Buyers Association (IEBA) for Amphitheatre of the Year! Congrats to the entire team at our favorite concert venue on the huge nomination!

Winners for each of the IEBA categories will be named at the IEBA2024 annual conference in Nashville, TN next month. Good luck to our friends at The Amp!

⛴️ Florida Water Tours shines in competitive market

Jessica Jadick, co-founder of Florida Water Tours, has grown her passion for ocean wildlife into a thriving business. Since 2016, Florida Water Tours has expanded to three ships and now employs 25 people. Jessica's creative marketing, like the popular “Moonlit Mysteries” twilight tour, helps the company stand out in a crowded market. With events like the adults-only mimosas and brunch cruise going viral, Florida Water Tours continues to attract locals and tourists alike. Jessica’s focus on social media and delivering fun, informative experiences has been key to the company's success. Read the full story by Matt Denis via the Jacksonville Business Journal ($)

🚚 Former site of Cornwell’s Market to become U-Haul location

The St. Johns County Planning and Zoning Agency recommended approval for U-Haul of Palencia’s plan to rezone 1.85 acres at the former Cornwell's Market site in St. Johns County at Stokes Landing Road and U.S. 1 North. The project includes a 143,000-square-foot development featuring self-storage, rental vehicle facilities, and remodeled offices within the existing building. (more info)

SHINDIGS

What the cool kids are up to

Wednesday, September 11

🚜 Wednesday Farmers Market at St. Johns County Ocean Pier

Over 40 vendors offering fresh produce, seafood, local honey, local art, jewelry, and much, much more. The pet friendly farmers market is open every Wednesday from 8AM-12PM (summer hours). the St. Johns County Ocean Pier is located at 350 A1A Beach Blvd. on the Island. (more info)

😅 Refit Revolution’s Rev + Flow at West Augustine District Park

Join instructor Onika for a low-impact, high-intensity workout that’s gentle on your body every Wednesday at 6PM. Rev + Flow helps improve mobility and tones your muscles, all set to upbeat, fun music! This class takes place at the Solomon Calhoun Center at West Augustine District Park located at 1300 Duval St. in St. Augustine. (more info)

🎨Music & Art by the Sea at St. Johns County Ocean Pier

Enjoy free live music alongside local art displays and delicious food trucks. Bring your beach chairs and coolers for a fun evening by the ocean! Coolers and chairs are permitted! Parking is limited, but a free shuttle is available from St. Augustine Beach City Hall and Ron Parker Park. More info at freebeachconcerts.com.

This week’s band: The US Navy Pop Music Band

Schedule:

3PM • Local Art on display at The Art Studio
4PM • Pavilion Seating Opens
5PM • Food Truck Service
5:30PM • DJ Dan from V.I.P. Entertainment spins the hits
7-9PM • Concert & Dance Party

Thursday, September 12

🎶Concerts in the Plaza at Plaza de la Constitución

Get ready for a night of classic rock and R&B with The Committee in this week’s edition of Concerts in the Plaza from 6-8PM. FYI, concerts may be canceled last-minute due to weather—check online or @CityStAug on Facebook. Plaza de la Constitución is located at 170 St. George St. downtown.

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THE AMP

What’s going down at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre

📆 Next Five Shows:

• 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

• Sep 29 | Violent Femmes | Tickets

🎉 Upcoming Events:

• Sep 15 | The St. Augustine Record Fair | More Info

• Sep 17 | Fall Night Market | More Info

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

When & where to catch live tunes

Wednesday, September 11

• Ann O’Malley’s • Dewey Via, 6-10PM

• Bin 39 Wine Bar • Craig Smith, 2-5PM

• Casa de Vino 57 • Dharma, 7-10PM

• DJ’s Clam Shack • Craig Smith, 2-5PM

• Fuzion 904 Eatery • Denny Blue, 5:30-8:30PM

• Milltop Tavern • Jim Lamb, 12PM | Reggie Starrett, 4:30PM

• Music & Art by the Sea • US Navy Pop Music Band, 7-9PM

• Old Coast Ales • John Phillips, 6-9PM

• Pesca Vilano • Wes Register, 5-9PM

• Pierre’s Pub • Johnson + Burns, 1-5PM | Shyla Macaluso Duo, 6-10PM

• Prohibition Kitchen • Cookin’ in the Kitchen, 6-9PM

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

• Trade Winds Lounge • Smokin’ Joe, 1-4:30PM | Mark Hart, 5-8PM | Jack Hammer, 9PM

Thursday, September 12

• Bin 39 Wine Bar • Yael ZaZa Flamenca, 1-4PM

• Casa de Vino 57 • Ivan Smith, 6-8PM

• Casa Maya • Carry the Day, 6-9PM

• Colonial Oak Music Park • Whalin, 7-10PM

• Concerts in the Plaza • The Committee, 6-8PM

• Conch House Marina • Chubby McG, 5-9PM

• Fuzion 904 Eatery • ZaZa Flamenca, 5:30-8:30PM

• Meehan’s Irish Pub • Smokin’ Joe, 1PM (Backyard)

• Milltop Tavern • Jim Lamb, 12PM | John Tyler, 4:30PM

• No Name • Chillula, TBA

• Oasis • Allen Arena, 5-8PM (Tiki Bar)

• Pesca Vilano • Jax English Salsa Trio, 6-10PM

• Pierre’s Pub • Adam Latiff, 1-5PM | Vegas Gray Duo, 6-10PM

• Prohibition Kitchen • Skyler & Micha, 6-9PM

• Salt Life Food Shack • Joe Downing, 6-10PM

• Trade Winds Lounge • Just Wade, 1-4:30PM | Crawford Boyd’s Acoustic Anomaly, 5-8PM | TBA, 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

Results | Tuesday, September 10:

⚽️ Men’s Soccer (2-0-0) at Embry-Riddle | W, 1-0 🎉 

Upcoming | Thursday, September 12:

🏐 Volleyball vs. #18 Central Oklahoma, 6PM
⚽️ Women’s Soccer vs. Florida Tech, 7PM

Upcoming | Friday, September 13:

🎾 Women’s Tennis at ERAU Open (Daytona Beach, Fla.)
🏐 Volleyball vs. Trevecca Nazarene, 1PM (Flagler Saints Classic)
⚽️ Men’s Soccer vs. Eckerd, 6PM
🏐 Volleyball vs. Nova Southeastern, 7PM (Flagler Saints Classic)
🏃 Men’s Cross Country at UNF Invitational, 7:30PM
🏃 Women’s Cross Country at UNF Invitational, 8PM

🏈 High School Football Games this Week

Upcoming | Friday, September 13

🐝 St. Augustine (2-0) vs. Riverside, 7PM (Home)
🏴‍☠️ Menendez (1-1) vs. Parker, 7PM (Home)
🐂 Tocoi Creek (2-1) at Clay, 7PM (Away)
⚡️ St. Joseph Academy (4-0) vs. Eagle’s View (Home)

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