🏴‍☠️🏝️ It's safe to go downtown, again | January 8, 2025

Happy Wednesday, St. Augustine! It may be a little chilly out today, but it’s certainly “safe” for locals to return to normal activities around town. The Nights of Lights rush has essentially ended and the ratio of Florida license plates to those from out-of-state has realigned.

Today’s newsletter is packed with news and updates, so today’s intro is brief…

But first, a quick question:

Thanks for your input! Have a fantastic weekend.

— JF

Recycle Event TODAY!

The City of St. Augustine and St. Johns County Utilities are hosting a recycling event today from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at two locations: Francis Field (25 W. Castillo Dr.) and 840 West 16th St., Anastasia Island.

Drop off items like used cooking oil, electronics, batteries, and holiday light strands (please note: no paper shredding is available). This is a great chance to safely dispose of those tricky items! ♻️👌 

Beach Walkovers out of Commission

A little heads up in case you planned on heading to the beach during peak winter season here in St. Augustine. The North Beach Park & Walkover and 1st Street Walkover will be closed until further notice as renovations are underway. We’ll keep you posted, but be sure to follow SJC Beach Services on Instagram for updates.

Rising Home Values in SJC

Have you ever wondered what your home might be worth in today’s market? Whether you're just curious or considering your next move, there’s a quick and easy way to find out. Mike Sontos—a trusted local expert and all-around great guy with the Welch Team at Keller Williams St. Johns—offers a free home value tool to give you instant insights. Check it out or shoot Mike an email to connect.*

St. Johns County Legislative Delegation Public Hearing

St. Johns County will hold its annual State Legislative Delegation public hearing on Friday, January 10, 2025, at the St. Johns County Auditorium in St. Augustine. The meeting offers residents and officials the chance to propose legislation, request state funding, or share their opinions ahead of the 2025 Regular Legislative Session.

The Delegation includes Senator Tom Leek, Representative Kim Kendall, Representative Sam Greco, and Representative Judson Sapp. Residents wishing to speak or gather further details can contact the Delegation Chair’s office at [email protected] or call 904-607-4237. This event provides an important platform for public input on state-level priorities and policies.

Big News at Fort Mose!

Construction is underway to reconstruct the 1738 Fort at Fort Mose Historic State Park, the site of the first free Black community in what is now the U.S. This incredible project celebrates a powerful piece of history and will provide a meaningful way to honor and preserve its legacy.

(*) denotes paid content

🏴‍☠️ Ahoy, St. Augustine

Set sail on your next adventure with Pirate Island Carts—the newest name in premium golf cart sales, service & rentals in St. Augustine Beach. I joined the team in November and am excited about what we’re building down on the Island.

Whether you’re shopping for a new cart, gearing up your ride for the season, or just want to rent a cart to explore town, we’ve got you covered!

Stop by the shop at 125 Pope Rd. (just up from Embassy Suites) or call us at (904) 201-3048. Ask for me, James—I'm here to help you ride in style. Let’s get you rolling!

⚡️ FPL Proposes Four-Year Rate Hike Plan

Florida Power & Light (FPL) plans to raise base electric rates starting in 2026, citing customer growth and rising costs. The proposal includes $1.55 billion in increases for 2026 and $930 million for 2027, with additional funding for solar and battery projects in 2028 and 2029. A detailed proposal will be filed on February 28, with the current base-rate plan set to expire at the end of 2025. | Jacksonville Today

🖋️ New State Laws Take Effect in 2025

Several Florida laws begin in January 2025, including HB 3, which restricts minors under 14 from opening social media accounts and requires age verification for adult websites. Other laws include SB 184, prohibiting harassment of first responders, HB 135, mandating consent for political party changes, and HB 267, updating building codes. | Jacksonville Today

❤️ Expanded Support for Assault Survivors in St. Johns County

The Betty Griffin Center has partnered with Ascension St. Vincent’s St. Johns hospital near Nocatee to enhance services for sexual assault victims. This collaboration provides survivors in northern St. Johns County with access to health exams, counseling, and transitional housing closer to home. In 2023, the center assisted over 1,000 individuals through its emergency shelter, 24-hour hotline, and counseling services. Victims can reach the Betty Griffin Center’s 24-hour helpline at 904-824-1555 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233. | Jacksonville Today

🎟️ St. Augustine Amphitheatre Switches to AXS

As of January 6, 2025, AXS is now the official ticketing partner for The St. Augustine Amphitheatre and Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, replacing Ticketmaster. Tickets purchased before this date remain valid, and new tickets can be purchased via AXS, venue websites, or box offices. For more details, visit the venue FAQ or contact the box office at 904-209-3746. | TheAmp.com

👷 Manhole Inspections and Smoke Testing Begin Jan. 13

From January 13 to February 14, St. Augustine and St. Johns County will conduct manhole inspections and smoke testing of the sanitary sewer system to identify stormwater inflow or groundwater infiltration issues. Testing will occur across various neighborhoods, including Cordova Palms, Madeira, Lincolnville, and Spanish Quarter. Residents in affected areas will receive notifications via door hangers. Learn more at CityStAug.com/SmokeTest.

🎸 Ponte Vedra Concert Hall Renovation Update

The Ponte Vedra Concert Hall is undergoing a $10 million renovation to enhance seating, amenities, and capacity, increasing from 900 to 1,200 for mixed standing/seated shows. Improvements include new stadium seats, expanded lounge areas, and a redesigned entrance. Scheduled to reopen by summer 2025, the venue will offer premium options like balcony seating while maintaining its intimate atmosphere. Ticket prices will remain the same, with the goal of positioning the hall as a premier cultural destination in Ponte Vedra Beach. | Jacksonville Business Journal

🏌️ World Golf Village Redevelopment Plans Delayed

St. Johns County’s plans to revitalize the World Golf Village face delays after dismissing its sole bidder for the IMAX Theater and stalling property acquisitions from the World Golf Village Foundation. These setbacks hinder redevelopment efforts following the Hall of Fame’s 2023 relocation, though the county is exploring alternative options. | Jacksonville Today

Quick Clicks:

📱 SJSO Text Message Scam | Action News Jax

🛟 St. Johns County Hiring Lifeguards | Action News Jax

🌳 Save the Date: St. Augustine Arbor Day Celebration | News4Jax

🍝 Saint Joins Downtown Dining Scene | Jacksonville Business Journal

☕️ Southern Grounds Expands to St. Aug| Jacksonville Business Journal

⛳️ PGA Tour Unveils Advanced Media Studios | Jacksonville Business Journal

⚖️ St. Johns County Halts Panhandling Ordinance Enforcement | St. Johns Citizen

Featured Events

Wednesday, January 8

🛍️ Wednesday Pier Farmers Market at St. Augustine Beach Pier | Shop local produce, arts, and crafts by the beach | 8 AM-1 PM | 350 A1A Beach Blvd.

🛶 Military Veteran Kayaking at Moultrie Creek | Guided kayaking adventure for veterans on scenic Moultrie Creek | 10 AM-1 PM | 480 Wildwood Dr. | Register

🏓 Military Veteran Pickleball at Treaty Park | Open play for veterans and active-duty military members | 6-8 PM | 1595 Wildwood Dr. | Register

🔢 Bingo at Spinster Abbott’s | You know the drill - numbers, letters, and good times in Uptown | 7-8:30 PM | 61 San Marco Ave.

😂 First Coast Comedy Improv Night at Colonial Oak Music Park | Family-friendly improv comedy with pay-what-you-will admission | 7:30 PM | 33 St. George St. | Info

Thursday, January 9

🎥 St. Augustine Film Festival Begins | Celebrate cinema with screenings, panels, and special events | January 9-12, 2025 | Multiple venues in Downtown St. Augustine | Info

🐊 Evenings at Whitney Lecture Series at UF Whitney Laboratory | Dr. Nadja B. Cech explores the healing properties of plants | 6 PM | 9505 Ocean Shore Blvd. & via Zoom | Info

🔥 Campfire Conversations at Third Space Improv | Practice meaningful connections and real talk in a welcoming setting | 7-9 PM | 200 Malaga St., Suite 7 | Register

Friday, January 10

🙏 Ron Parker Memorial Service at Ron Parker Park | Honor Ron Parker with a service and fundraiser luncheon | 10 AM Service, 12:30 PM Luncheon | 607 Old Beach Rd. & 102 King St. | Info

☘️ Weed Wrangle at Vilano Beach Pavilion | Help remove invasive plants and protect local green spaces | 1:30-3:30 PM | 2750 Anahma Dr. | Register

🎤 Stand Up Community Comedy Night at Third Space Improv | Hilarious First Coast comedians hosted by Jax’s Sean Steele | 8 PM | 200 Malaga St., Suite 7 | Info

Saturday, January 11

👟 Run with a Vision 5K at Anastasia State Park | Charity run benefiting local vision programs | 8 AM | 300 Anastasia Park Rd. | Register

🏃 The Foundation 5000 at Palencia Elementary School | 5K and fun run supporting St. Johns County Schools | 8 AM | 355 Palencia Village Dr. | Register

🧑‍🌾 Farmers Market at The Amp | Shop fresh food, local art, and enjoy live entertainment | 8:30 AM-12:30 PM | 1340C A1A South

🐖 Jimmy Jam BBQ Slam at St. Johns County Fairgrounds | BBQ, chili, and chowder fest with proceeds supporting community outreach | 10 AM-6 PM | 5840 State Road 207 | Tickets

🪕 Gamble Jam at Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area | Acoustic jam session for musicians of all levels | 1-4 PM | 3100 S Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach | Info

🎂 Sarbez! turns Eleven | Celebrate their eleventh bday with live music all day | $5 at the door, or free if you’re wearing Sarbez! merch | 3PM-2AM | 115 Anastasia Blvd

🎉 Third Space Improv's First Anniversary Show | Celebrate a year of improv with performances, guests, and surprises | Champagne Hour at 7 PM, Show at 8 PM | 200 Malaga St., Suite 7 | FREE | Info

Sunday, January 12

🧘 Yoga on the Lawn at Ximenez-Fatio House Museum | Vinyasa flow yoga for all levels on the historic front lawn | 8-9 AM (Sun) | 20 Aviles St.

😆 Super Sunday Improv Mixer at Third Space Improv | Playful improv fun for all levels in a cooperative setting | 2-4 PM | 200 Malaga St., Suite 7 | Register

Monday, January 13

🤣 Level 1 Improv at Third Space Improv | Six-week class to boost creativity, confidence, and joy | Mondays, Jan. 13-Feb. 17, 6:30-9 PM | 200 Malaga St., Suite 7 | Register

Tuesday, January 14

🤠 Line Dancing at Spinster Abbott’s | The dance floors hoppin' and it's hotter than the Fourth of July | 7:30-9PM | 61 San Marco Ave.

Thursday, January 9

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

• Casa de Vino 57 | Wayne & Friends, 5-8PM

• Colonial Oak | Cumberland, 7-10PM

• Guy Harvey Resort | Joe Downing, 5-8PM

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

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

• Prohibition Kitchen | Second Opinion, 6PM

• Salt Life Food Shack | Fond Kiser, 6-10PM

• Trade Winds | Just Wade, 1-4:30PM | Acoustic Anomaly, 5-8PM | Vegas Gray, 9PM

Friday, January 10

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

• Bin 39 Wine Bar | Shawn Ryan, 1-4PM | Jolie, 4-7PM

• Cafe Eleven | Randall Bramblett, 8PM | Tickets

• Casa de Vino 57 | Landfall, 7PM

• Colonial Oak | Vern Daysel & The Burning Breeze, 7-10PM

• Crabby’s Beachside | Clayton Sturgeon, 6-10PM

• Fuzion 904 | Burn Unit, 6-9PM

• Guy Harvey Resort | Greg Johnson, 5-8PM

• La Cocina at San Sebastian Winery | Alex Peramas, 1-4PM | Buffalo Rose, 6-9PM

• Meehan’s Irish Pub | Jimmy Bragg, 1PM | Heather Craig Duo, 8PM

• Milltop Tavern | Scott Halls, 12PM | Jon Q., 4:30PM | Alan Dalton & Terry Campbell, 9PM

• Prohibition Kitchen | Remedy Tree, 6PM | Blair Crimmons, 10PM

• Salt Life Food Shack | Bret Blackshear, 6-10PM

• Trade Winds | Heather Craig, 1-4:30PM | Mark Hart, 5-8 | Livestream, 9PM

Saturday, January 11

• Arnold’s | Casey and The Fog, 8:30PM-12:30AM

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

• Cafe Eleven | Willy Porter, 8PM | Tickets

• Casa de Vino 57 | Davis Cook, 2:30-5:30PM | Jolie, 7-10PM

• Colonial Oak | John Tyler Duo, 7-10PM (Caravel Concert Series)

• Crabby’s Beachside | Muddy Marshall, 6-10PM

• Fuzion 904 | Merkin Brothers, 6-9PM

• Guy Harvey Resort | Fond Kiser, 5-8PM

• La Cocina at San Sebastian Winery | Tony Scozzaro, 1-4PM | Russ DeFilippis Duo, 6-9PM

• Meehan’s Irish Pub | Baby Gray, 1PM | Mike Hynes, 8PM

• Milltop Tavern | Scott Halls, 12PM | Jon Q., 4:30PM | Alan Dalton & Terry Campbell, 9PM

• Prohibition Kitchen | Bad Dog Mama, 6PM | Be Easy, 10PM

• Salt Life Food Shack | Gregory Ruggerio, 6-10PM

• Spinster Abbott’s | Clem Snide & South Paw, 7-10PM

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

Sunday, January 12

• Bin 39 Wine Bar | Jolie, 1-4PM | Brooke Garwood, 4-7PM

• Casa de Vino 57 | Joe Crowder, 5-8PM

• Dog Rose Brewing | Dewey Via Band, 3:30PM

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

• Meehan’s Irish Pub | Greg Johnson, 1PM | Brendan Nolan, 6PM

• Milltop Tavern | Scott Halls, 12PM | Ashton Taylor, 4:30PM

• Pierre’s Pub | The Space Heaters, 1-5PM

• Prohibition Kitchen | Old City Jam w/ Shane Platten, 6-9PM

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

• Trade Winds Lounge | Keith Godwin & the Rio Grande Band, 1-4:30PM | Shayla Nelson, 5-8PM | Johnson + Burns, 9PM

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