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SPRING FUNDRAISING EVENT FOR PIE IN THE SKY
May 11, 2012
On May 19th, Simple Gestures will be hosting a very special fundraiser to support Pie in the Sky. Stop by between 10-4 to enjoy live music, fun, food, a silent auction, art sale and The First EVER Pie in the Sky Pie Hole Tournament.
We hope to see you there.
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DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORS
May 09, 2012
By- Irene Arriola 
Important news: For those of you who had been planning to pick up a beautiful orchid or two for Mother's Day while supporting the annual Orchids for Hospice event on May 12, this event has sadly been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. This beautiful and important event will be back in 2013 and we'll see you then.
Citymerchant, Shelly Bingham, had her San Marco Avenue business featured in the April 2012 issue of Southern Living. The St Augustine Paper Co was one of only nine "paper stores" that were promoted under the banner of "Queens of Correspondence." Visit Shelly at http://www.staugustinepaperco.com/ or stop by 72 San Marco Avenue to see her line of letterpress-printing greeting cards and other paper products.
Valencia Street resident, Jerry Peters, announced that the annual Model Land block party held this past Saturday was a huge success. This year's theme was Cinco de Mayo and Luis Maria Peral provided live Latin music. Over 60 neighbors indulged themselves with great food, dancing and a lively game involving a piñata. I had asked for a photo but Jerry said everyone was having too much fun to stand still.
Jean Rahner reminds us that A Classic Theatre kicks off Romanza Week in May with the world premiere of Cross Roads: Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings and Norton S Baskin in Unguarded Moments, written by Deborah B Dickey. Based on the couple's letters, their voices come alive in pivotal moments of their relationship. Performances start at 7:30 on May 14, 15 and 16 in the Flagler Room on the campus of Flagler College at 74 King Street. Tickets are $20 and reservations can be made by calling 829-5807.
Everyone is invited to the Power of an Hour fundraiser for the Boys & Girls Club. On May 15, citizens are invited to what might be called "Speed Charity," where a collective impact in the lives of St Augustine youth can be made in 60 minutes. A 10-minute presentation, 10 minutes of questions and answers, a tour of the club and the collection of donations with celebration refreshments will fill out the hour with no fuss, no thrills and a down-to-business philanthropic opportunity. The idea is get caring individuals to accomplish together what cannot be done alone. To participate or for more information, contact Jennifer Tesori, liaison and youth advocate, at 669.0107 or jennifert@bgcnf.org. See you there.
The St Augustine Community Orchestra's 50th Anniversary celebration will be feature James and Sylvia Kalal, acoustic guitarists from Ohio, who will be playing Vivaldi's Guitar Concerto in D. Also performing at the concert will be the St Augustine Youth Orchestramade up of 33 elementary school string players from Murray and Webster Middle Schools and private pupils of Dorothy Barrett, Sherry Nelson, Victoria Scarlett and Rocco diGeorgio. May 18th the performance will beheld at the Lightner Museum Antique Courtyard and it starts at 8pm. On May 20th an encore performance will be held at the Ponte Vedra United Methodist Church at 76 South Roscoe Boulevard. For tickets and information, please visit http://www.staugustineorchestra.org/.
Loosen up your throwing arm and get yourself down to the first ever Pie in the Sky Pie Hole Tournament being held at Simple Gestures (4 White Street, just past Gypsy Cab on Anastasia Boulevard) on Saturday, May 19th from 10-4. This is the annual spring fundraiser and everyone is invited. Pie in the Sky is the grassroots, fill in the cracks, Hastings non-profit organization that gives away more than 4,000 pounds of food every week to folks in need and that doesn't begin to describe the other services they provide. Lonesome Bert & the Skinny Lizards and The Skinny will provide live music, there'll be hot dogs and of course, there will be fabulous pie. A silent auction for one-of-a-kind art on a lamp will be held thanks to the many artists who have donated and decorated a lamp - so come help "light the way" for this incredibly dedicated group to continue their work. For more info, call 827-9997.
Downtown resident, Kathy Schirmacher, reminds us that the St Augustine Community Chorus and the St Augustine Children's Chorus will be performing "Four Rebels with a Cause" on May 20th starting at 3:15 at the Ancient City Baptist Church at 27 Sevilla Street. The rebels include Giovanni Gabrielli, Richard Wagner, Igor Stravinsky and Leonard Bernstein. Tickets are available at Herbie Wiles Insurance, CNL Bank First Coast, Music Matters, Anastasia Books, the Print Shop and Southern Horticulture or you can go on-line to http://www.staugustinecommunitychorus.org/.
Downtown resident, Sue Agresta, is inviting everyone to the Lincolnville Spring Music Fair on May 20th. A full day of free music starting at 11am at the Lincolnville Farmer's Market which is located behind the recently reopened Willie Gallimore Center on the south end of Riberia Street. Old Town Trolley Tours will be sending free trolleys from their Old Jail depot on San Marco Ave every hour on the hour. There'll be activities for kids, arts and craft vendors and all the regular food merchants as well. Call 217-0624 with questions.
Get out your sunhats and sunscreen and enjoy.
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EXPLORE: 10 THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT ST. AUGUSTINE
April 29, 2012
To learn more about any of the things on the list below click here.
Number 1: First Free Black Settlement was here
Number 2: The Oldest Wax Museum in the U.S. is here
Number 3: St. Augustine was held by Union through most of the Civil War
Number 4: Lighthouse was used by Coast Guard in World War II
Number 5: Narrowest Street in the U.S.
Number 6: The oldest masonry fort in N. America
Number 7: Henry Flagler is buried here
Number 8: Ray Charles went to school here
Number 9: Rev. Martin Luther King was arrested here
Number 10: Largest indoor swimming pool
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DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORS
April 25, 2012
By Irene Arriola
Happy 2ndAnniversary to our talented friends and artists at the Aviles Street Gallery. This past Sunday this happy event was celebrated by the artists and their patrons and downtown painter, Suzanne Strock and watercolorist, Zachary Havas, were welcomed as the newest members of the gallery. Be sure to stop in at the next First Friday Art Walk or during the week to see what they're all up to at 11 Aviles Street, Suite C.
For those of you who fondly remember Faraway Places at 100 St George Street, there's a bit of déjà vu at the same location in Suite B inside the Spanish Plaza. Womar Glass has opened a new retail shop and you'll find a large collection of their beautiful decorative glass products. Womar used to sell their glassware at Faraway Places and we're happy to have them back in town.
Our friend and favorite batik artist, Wendy Tatter has launched a new website and invites you to visit it at wbtatter.com. She's starting a new batik class in May, so this is your chance to sign up as well as to find out about all her upcoming Uptown Saturday Night events.
When you live in St Augustine, everyone wants to visit you so here's a book you should have at the ready for those occasions, "A Comprehensive Guide to Lodgings of St Augustine," by Elsie Hedetniemi Carr and Robert Carr. Old-timers (I say that fondly, since I'm becoming one) will remember them as the first inn-keepers of the Kenwood Inn onMarine Street. To purchase a copy, visit lodgingsofstaugustine.com.
Save the dates (and there's a lot to save):
Downtown resident, Angie Fay Ullman, is creating new work at her studio located behind Butterfield Garage on King Street. Her work includes designing, building and painting furniture, treasure boxes and other various and useful pieces. Her travels have taken her from South Dakota (that's the tropical Dakota) to a four-year sailing stint with her family, a brief stop in Charleston and then the Virgin Islands before returning to St Augustine. Ullman will be the featured artist at Simple Gestures for the month of May with the First Friday Art Walk reception being held on May 4th. Simple Gestures is located at 4 White Street and Anastasia Boulevard.
On May 4th and 5th you can enjoy the St Augustine Ballet production of Peter and the Wolf at the Kirk Memorial Auditorium on the campus of the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind. Info atsaintaugustineballet.com.
The Gamble Rogers Folk Festival returns for its 17th year on the evening of May 4th and all day on May 5th. Friday's events will be at the St Augustine Marina stage while Saturday will see the festival back at the St Augustine Amphitheatre. Tickets and info available at gamblerogersfest.org. Come out and support live music.
Grace Paaso wants everyone to know about the "Buy the Inch" Library Book Sale being held May 4th and 5th from 10am to 5pm at the main branch by the carousel in Davenport Park. Hardbacks and paperbacks will be priced at $1.00 per inch and there are amazing deals on VHS tapes, cassettes and audio books plus a huge selection of topics and categories of books. Members can preview the sale on Thursday from 3pm to 5pm and on Monday, May 7th all remaining books will go for half price. School and county employees must bring their id badges or paystub for a 50% discount.
If you haven't taken one of David Nolan's narrated tours of St Augustine, here's your chance. Sponsored by the Citizens for the Preservation of St Augustine (CPSA), and in recognition of the National Trust for Historic Preservation's "National Preservation Month," the tour will be offered on Saturday, May 5th at 9:30am and again at noon. The tour will encompass some lesser known areas including streetcar suburbs, the last remains of Kirkside which are scattered throughout the city and other sites you should know about as well. Call Kathy Schirmacher at 808-1886 for tickets. Space is limited, so don't dally.
Old City Life reminds you about the Orchids for Hospice event being held on Saturday, May 12th, at the Saint Augustine Yacht Club from 10am to 1pm. All proceeds benefit the Bailey Family Center for Caring and Community Hospice of Northeast Florida on the campus of FlaglerHospital. This is a wonderful event, awash in the brilliance and beauty of so many varieties of orchids. For more info please go to oldcitylife.com.
So, thereyou have it. The 2012 graduating classof Flagler College has left to pursue their dreams, summer is almost upon usand there's so much to do and see and taste in this city of ours.
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THE SALTWATER SLAYERS TAKE THIRD
April 21, 2012
This past Saturday at the World Golf Village a round of 18 holes was played by Kea, Joe, George and Jack aka The Saltwater Slayers. At The Putters, an annual putting golf tournament to benefit The ARC of the St. Johns, The Saltwater Slayers golf team took 3rd place. It was a great day to help raise money for a very worthwhile cause. The ARC of the St. Johns is an amazing organization whose mission is to provide the opportunity for hope, growth, and change to people with intellectual and developmental opportunities in our community.
Click here to learn more about The ARC of the St. Johns
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ST JOHNS COUNTY LEADS NE FLORIDA IN HOME BUILDING
April 11, 2012"The work doesn't come to you. Now you have to pick up and go to it," James Heard told First Coast News on Tuesday at a construction site in Nocatee. He owns the James Heard Concrete Construction company, based in Volusia County, near Deltona. However, he's working in St. Johns County, because that's where the construction work seems to be lately. "It's right in St. Johns County," Heard confirmed. According to numbers from the Northeast Florida Builders Association, St. Johns County outpaced the rest of the counties on the First Coast when it comes to building permits for new homes. In March 2012, St. Johns County pulled 178 permits, Clay pulled 44, Duval had 87, and Nassau had 15. St. Johns County had 55% of the new home permits for the month, and the county has lead the First Coast for months now. "It seems like the construction just exploded," Heard said.
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DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORS: HOUSING PARTNERSHIP IS 15
April 11, 2012
By Irene Arriola
Downtown News
Happy 15th Anniversary to the St Johns Housing Partnership, Executive director Bill Lazar and all of the dedicated people who work tirelessly to improve the lives of our citizens through their "Fix, Rent, Buy, Keep" efforts as well as many other programs. A recent event held at the World Golf Village honored the many local "partners" who have participated over the years and extended an invitation for new ones to join. Visit sjhp.org to get acquainted with this tremendous non-profit organization.
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Save the date:
■ This Saturday the Helping Heroes at Home Foundation is hosting a "Hoops for Heroes" event at the St Augustine Family YMCA. Stop by anytime between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. to shoot some hoops and make a difference. All ages, families and clubs are welcome and you can visit helpingheroesfound
ation.org for more information. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum Veteran's Day Program.
■ The Crisp-Ellert Art Museum and Flagler College will host a celebration of student art work and music during the Spring Bachelor of Art and Bachelor of Fine Arts Senior Portfolio Exhibition. An opening reception is scheduled from 5 to 9 p.m. April 19 with exhibition hours continuing Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. A variety of mediums will be represented, and you can learn more by calling 826-8530 or emailing crispellert@flagler.edu.
■ Happy 100th anniversary to the International Sertoma Club. A local presence here for over 40 years, the celebration will kick off at 6:30 p.m. April 28 at the Bishop Baker Center at 259 St George St. (located at the Cathedral Parish School). There'll be cocktails, a cash bar and silent auction which will be followed by food and entertainment. Hosted by Jim Springfield, the admission for the night is $50. The intent is to raise funds for the Arts Alive program, and you can go to sjcef.com to make your reservations or to pursue sponsorship opportunities.
■ Don't forget that it's almost time for the annual Gamble Rogers Folk Festival. In its 17th year, this year the festival will start at 5 p.m. May 4 at the Marina Stage on the bayfront. This will coincide with the monthly First Friday Art Walk, so the mood will most certainly be festive as we celebrate art and live music downtown. May 5 the festival moves back to the St Augustine Amphitheatre, and music will start at noon with four performance stages. You can get your veggies at the Farmer's Market and take in a live concert in the same place.
For ticket information visit gamblerogersfest.org. There will be a healthy mix of headliners and your favorite local bands, so don't miss it.
■ Our friends from the St Augustine Ballet remind us that their spring production of "Peter and the Wolf" and "Spring Variations" will be performed on May 4 and 5 at the Kirk Memorial Auditorium at the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind, 207 San Marco Ave. Directed by Luis Abella, I am told that Tommy Bledsoe will be returning as the "Narrator/Grandfather."
Check out saintaugustineballet.com for details.
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Downtowners - have you been wondering where to get your surfboards, skateboards and beach bikes? Direct from Long Beach, Calif., you can now find these items at High Tide Gallery on Cordova Street. Team Banion, under the direction of Aimee K. Banion, have transformed the gallery at 51 Cordova St., and you owe it to yourself to check it out. The gallery is celebrating its 6th anniversary - congratulations!
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How do they find the time?
It's a mystery, but Old City Life publisher, Yvette Monell Richardson, and Stephanie Showalter, gallery director, have opened the 233 West King Gallery located at 233 W. King, of course. The grand opening coincided with last week's First Friday event and the event was well attended by friends and fans alike. A portion of the proceeds from the show "Bug Shots" will benefit the Epilepsy Foundation of Florida. Check in with Stephanie at 217-7470 to find out what's in store for May.
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The town keeps humming along with things to do and places to go. See you out there.
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ST. AUGUSTINE ONE OF THE 10 PRETTIEST TOWNS BY FORBES MAGAZINE
April 04, 2012
Residents already know St. Augustine is beautiful, and now Forbes Magazine is spreading the word after naming the Oldest City among the top 10 prettiest towns in the country.
Forbes selected the city on the advice of experts from National Geographic, the Travel Channel and Fodor's, according to the Forbes website, making it the second time National Geographic has singled the city out recently.
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ST. JOHNS COUNTY IS HEALTHIEST IN STATE
April 02, 2012
St. Johns County can add another No. 1 to a growing list of
accolades.
In addition to having the state's No. 1 school district, the county is rated
the healthiest in the state, according to a study released Tuesday by the
University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute and Robert Wood Johnson
Foundation.
The County Health Rankings and Roadmaps study ranked every county in the
nation in two categories: health outcomes and health factors. St. Johns County
was No. 1 for Florida in both, the study showed, up from No. 3 last year.
Read the complete article here
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A CELEBRATION OF EDUCATION: THE 1ST ANNUAL FUNDRAISING GALA & AUCTION TO BENEFIT THE STUDENTS OF ST. AUGUSTINE PUBLIC MONTESSORI SCHOOL
Join us May 31st 6pm - 9pm at the elegant White Room for the St Augustine Public Montessori School's 1st annual fundraiser. Experience live music and entertainment; participate in exciting live and silent auctions; dine on delicious hors d'oeuvres; and enjoy gorgeous bayfront views from the... private balcony over historic downtown St Augustine as the sun goes down. A very memorable evening for a very worthwhile cause.
Live Music by Baroka * DJ Andy Calvert of High Fidelity * Heavy Hors D'Oeuvres & Light Buffet * Live Auction hosted by Great Expectations Auctioneer * Silent Auction * Cash Bar with Tickets
Tickets are available at $75 per person and include heavy hors d'oeuvres, light buffet stations, and two drink tickets.
Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance! To purchase tickets online go to:
www.staugustinemontessori.com/2012gala.htm
Or email danapalermo@mac.com or ktalbaugh@yahoo.com for more information.
Thank you for supporting the founding of the St Augustine Public Montessori School, St Johns County's first charter (public) Montessori School scheduled to open in the Fall of 2012!
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DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORS 3.15.2012
March 15, 2012
Neighbors: Downtown is a busy place
by Irene Arriola
There's so much to catch up on now that the season of pneumonia and bronchitis has hopefully come to an end and I'm back in the proverbial saddle again.
It appears that spring has come early on the heels of a most temperate winter. You've probably noticed that our streets have been teeming with a steady stream of visitors since last fall. This week we'll be sharing the roads with all of the bikers here to attend the annual Bike Week festivities in and around Daytona. St. Augustine continues to be recognized with all sorts of accolades, which help increase the public's awareness of our fair city.
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Congratulations:
■ Hats off to everyone who made last weekend's St Patrick's Day Parade and the second annual Celtic Festival successful events. There was no shortage of green-clad people roaming the streets and the music coming from Francis Field made your toes tap even if you were just driving by. John Meehan of Meehan's Irish Pub and Seafood House on the bayfront, John and Sherrie Cunningham of Ann O'Malley's Deli and Pub on Orange Street and other members of Romanza helped put together this exciting venue which featured Celtic foods, Scottish games, bagpipes galore and Irish dancing. Be sure to stop by Meehan's, Ann O'Malley's and the Barley Republic on Spanish Street as they continue the celebration of St. Patrick's Day throughout the week.
■ A belated "Happy Anniversary" to the people at Herbie Wiles who recently celebrated their 50th anniversary of being in business here in St Augustine.
■ The next time you see downtown residents Cathy Brown and Jean Troemel, be sure to curtsey or bow and address them as Dames Brown and Troemel. Both women were knighted at the Plaza de la Constitucion this past Sunday for their tireless contributions to the community.
The ceremony included participants from the St. Augustine Easter Week Royal Trio and Family wearing period clothing and entertainment provided by the Sally Walton Dancers and the Sally Walton River House Dancers.
■ St. Augustine Art Association board member Kay Burtin was recently honored for her years of service to the organization and for her contribution toward building the association's permanent art collection. Friends and family watched her receive a Certificate of Recognition presented by Mayor Joe Boles on behalf of the City of St Augustine. A portrait of Burtin by acclaimed artist Richard Weaver was unveiled at the event and will always serve as a reminder of her continued dedication to the arts.
■ The St. Johns Cultural Council will be recognizing four women for their lifetime achievements and contributions to the arts in St Johns County on March 25, when it honors Shirley Bryce, Barbara Minckley, Sister Diane Couture and Kay Burtin as the ROWITA recipients for 2012. The public is invited to the celebration starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Limelight Theatre, 11 Old Mission Ave.
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Save the dates:
■ Join Bob Patterson and Joe Mark at the Aviles Street Gallery this Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. for a book signing of their new book, "Dorothy." Authored by Patterson with watercolor illustrations by Joe Mark, it's a life story of a remarkable Florida woman who lived through some incredible times. The two men will also provide their own musical entertainment for your enjoyment - a double treat.
■ There's a new artist in town and you can find her work on exhibit at 57 Treasury located at 144 King St. Kathryn Carr has focused her talent on the art of paper cutting. Taking her inspiration from the German paper cut art Scherenschnitte (Sharon-SNIT-tah), each piece tells its own story in a most delightful way. Stop by and check out her work and then visit her at gocarrgo.com. Call 827-1707 for hours.
■ Enzo Torcoletti and Joe Segal are the featured artists at the Crisp-Ellert Art Museum through April 13. Colleagues and friends for over 20 years, this is their first time exhibiting together with the Form and Figure show. On March 21 at 7 p.m. they will hold a "Conversation with the Artists" at the museum and the pubic is invited to attend. The museum is at 48 Sevilla St. For information, go to Flagler.edu/crispellert.
■ Downtown residents and local architects, Roxanne Horvath and Peter Rumpel will be among the featured artists at the Architectural Counterpoints show being held at the Museum of Florida Art in DeLand. The opening reception is from 5 to 7 p.m. March 23. For information, go to museumoffloridaart.org/exhibitions.php.
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Our condolences:
■ David Monroe Andrews, devoted husband, father and grandfather, respected attorney and an excellent friend left us in February of this year. A true gentleman with a dry wit and a passion for the outdoors, he will be missed by many.
■ Jim and Marcia Byles of the Villa Zorayda Museum recently lost Jim's mother, Leila V. Byles, at the age of 95. She had an amazing life with a rich history, which she continued after she retired to Davis Shores in the mid-70s.
■ A lifelong resident and faithful member of the Cathedral Basilica, Connie Tringali passed away in early February. She leaves behind her brothers, Domenic and Sam Tringali and a host of nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.
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RESOLUTION ADOPTED - NOW ITS UP TO FDOT
March 13, 2012
Historic City News local reporters learned of a request from a Port Orange company, Masci General Contractors, to the Florida Department of Transportation to be allowed to continue the $1.6 million King Street Drainage Improvement Project approved to begin next week.
The news triggered a firestorm of e-mails and last-minute telephone calls between business owners, residents and city officials who came away from a meeting Friday with the impression that there would be a moratorium on the construction; at least from the standpoint of city staff.
The major construction project would shut down eastbound traffic on what is arguably the city's main entrance corridor; was announced with little fanfare to the business community and residents, and lacked a well-vetted streetscape and underground utility conversion plan.
To applause from a crowded St Augustine City Commission chamber, City Manager John Regan told the Mayor and commissioners, "Its my recommendation, as City Manager and as a professional engineer, in the interest of public safety, commerce, and the real vision of the community; I would recommend that you adopt this resolution."
Without further ado, City Commission Vice-Chairman Leanna Freeman said, "I personally believe that with more time and more planning that we can make this a much more successful project and I'd like to make a motion that we pass Resolution 2012-09."
Commissioner Errol Jones immediately seconded the motion.
The motion passed unanimously; after it was amended, during discussion, to include a request that the project be delayed until 2016 and that the FDOT commit to appropriation of "comparable funding" to the project.
The Resolution is not the final say in the matter, however. King Street is a state road and the project is a state department of transportation project.
According to Regan, the FDOT people with whom he has been in communication, have indicated a willingness to take the City of St Augustine's recommendation into consideration; however, if the FDOT determines that the cost to cancel the already-approved and scheduled contract work, or other factors, are overarching, they may not grant the delay.
http://www.historiccity.com/2012/staugustine/news/florida/resolution-adopted-fdot-24086
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LOCAL B&B AMONG NATION'S TOP 25 INNS BY TRIPADVISOR.COM
February 20, 2012
The owners of one St. Augustine inn can definitely testify to the power of TripAdvisor, which relies on reviews posted on the site by everyday travelers, who rate their experiences and provide written testimonials.
At Journeys End Bed and Breakfast was recently selected as one of "2012's Top 25 Inns in the U.S." by TripAdvisor. The B&B, located at 89 Cedar Street, was the only Florida inn to make the list.
"We're just absolutely thrilled," said co-owner Tim Millbern. "We got an email telling us about it, and we were totally blown away."
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FOOD/TRAVEL SHOW HIGHLIGHTS ST. AUGUSTINE
January 11, 2012
When you go on vacation, you eat, of course. But more and more people are going on vacation... to eat.
It's called food tourism or culinary tourism, and the trend has exploded in the last few years. An international travel television show is in St. Augustine this week, highlighting the old city's food.
Chef Massimo Capra is one of the most recognized chefs in Canada and hosts the show "Gourmet Escapes," which airs in Canada but not in the U.S.
Capra was cooking up an episode Tuesday with Chef Ed Hill at Rhett's Piano Bar and Brasserie in downtown St. Augustine.
View First Coast News story and video here.
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ST. AUGUSTINE LISTED AS TOP 15 U.S. DESTINATION ON THE RISE FOR 2012
January 05, 2012
St. Augustine has added another top-10 award to a lengthening travel resume.
TripAdvisor named the city to its "Top 15 U.S. Destinations on the Rise" for 2012.
St. Augustine was No. 9 on a list that includes two other Florida destinations as well as Austin and Branson, Mo. Nashville was No. 1.
Read the Full Story.
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PROPOSED DISTILLERY COULD RAISE SPIRITS IN ST. AUGUSTINE
December 29, 2011
The historic Ice Plant on Riberia Street may get new life as a craft distillery "if the stars continue to align," said one of two residents working to develop the project.
Phil McDaniel and Ryan Dettra, Café 11 owner and former general manager of the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, are exploring the idea of rehabilitating the building "into a vibrant commercial destination," McDaniel wrote in an email.
He said the idea is to create a craft distillery that would brew liquor in small quantities.
The Art Deco-style building is located across the street from the St. Augustine Transfer Company Stables, where many of the horses that pull carriages downtown are housed.
The structure was built in 1910 and has a gross area of 14,863 square feet, 11,163 of which is heated and cooled, according to County Property Appraiser records.
However, St. Augustine Historical Society records place it as constructed between 1917 and 1924.
"We hope to be right on the front edge of this movement and put St. Augustine in the national spotlight as one of the nation's best producers of premium quality craft distilled spirits such as aged whiskey, rum and other premium spirits," McDaniel wrote.
View the full story on staugustine.com.
View the video and story on First Coast News.
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NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC NAMES ST. AUGUSTINE'S HOLIDAY LIGHTS AMONG TOP 10 IN THE WORLD
December 21, 2011
Think the more than 2 million white holiday lights starring downtown are more than a little fetching?
You're not alone.
National Geographic magazine editors agreed, recently naming the display one of the 10 best locations in the world to see holiday lights, according to its website.
Others in the top 10 include Brussels, Copenhagen, Madrid and Kobe, Japan.
Only one other U.S. city got the nod: Callaway Gardens, Ga.
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SERTOMA TOY GIVEAWAY 2011
December 20, 2011
Saltwater Property Group is proud to support The St. Augustine Sertoma Club. We have served as a donation drop-off location for the three years and are honored to participate with this group.
Sertoma works within the community to serve the needs of individuals who have fallen upon medical, and financial hardship, as well as with at-risk children. The Toy Giveaway is a decade long Sertoma endeavor, our toy drive aims to fulfill the wishes of local children who might otherwise have no Christmas. Families are selected for participation based on need, and Sertoma typically services several hundred families during the holiday season.
See how you can help support our community with Sertoma at http://www.sertomastaugustine.org/
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SECOND ANNUAL SCARECROW FESTIVAL 2011
October 13, 2011
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15
Uncle Stevo and Sue Marrazzo invite you to join in the fall festivities at Simple Gestures where it's time to paint pumpkins, stuff scarecrows, bob for apples, paint your face, eat, drink and make merry with the music of Lonesome Bert & the Skinny Lizards. A fun-filled day for kids of all ages, all the activities are free and there'll be plenty of free supplies, technical assistance and artistic direction available for pumpkin painters (pumpkins will be available for purchase), face painters and scarecrow stuffers.
Don't forget to bring old clothes, hats, pillows and poles for your scarecrow - straw, string, markers and paint will be provided. There's nothing like a scarecrow to add a touch of fall décor to your home or to keep those crows away from your vegetable garden!
Proceeds from the event will help fund programs for Pie in the Sky, a non-profit organization in Hastings. The mission is to connect people with resources and facilitate long-term solutions to problems that affect the lives of the elderly, the poor, the historically underserved and the disenfranchised people of the Hastings community. Pie in the Sky's food pantry is helping feed families in St Johns County. The organization helps elderly homeowners with minor repairs and provides clothing for farm workers.
Malea Guiriba is in the kitchen whipping up her famous pies and they'll be available for sale along with other comestibles.
Fun-filled activities for the entire family from 11 to 5 with live music from Lonesome Bert & the Skinny Lizards from 2 to 4ish.
For more information on each participant, visit Simple Gestures at Facebook and Pie in the Sky at www.hastingspieinthesky.com
Featuring Lonesome Bert & the Skinny Lizards at www.lonesomebert.com
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DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORS 10.11.2011
October 11, 2011
Goodbye -
Some two hundred of Stetson Kennedy's friends and family came together on a perfect autumn afternoon at Beluthahatchee on October 1st to celebrate his life with stories, memories and song. Born in Jacksonville 94 years ago, he was a writer, folklorist and human rights activist until the end and for those contributions, he will always be remembered.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to local historian, David Nolan, Sudie Nolan-Cassimatis of Atlanta and Hamilton Nolan of New York, on the loss of their father and grandfather respectively. Joseph T Nolan passed away last week at the age of 91.There will be a memorial service to honor his life at a later date.
Save the date -
Uncle Stevo reminds us that this Saturday, October 15th is the second annual Scarecrow Festival at Simple Gestures. This event is a fundraiser for Pie in the Sky in Hastings, so Malea and her crew will be selling homemade pies and other goodies. 
Buy a pumpkin to decorate and paint, brushes and artistic direction will be provided. Don't forget to bring old clothes, hats, pillowcases and poles for your scarecrow. Build one to decorate your home or to keep the crows off your vegetable garden! Simple Gestures will have straw for stuffing, string, markers, paint and technical scarecrow assistance. And don't forget your dancing shoes since Lonesome Bert & the Skinny Lizards will be movin' and groovin' between 2 and 4pm. Fun for kids of all ages, the festival will kick off at 11am and run till 5pm. Simple Gestures is on the corner of Anastasia Boulevard and White Street (just past Gypsy Cab). Call 827.9997 for more info.
October 23rd will be the kick-off date for the Lincolnville Farmer's Market and downtown resident and organizer, Sue Agresta, extends an invitation to one and all. The grand opening will be a Harvest and Halloween Festival with fun, food and music to suit everyone's appetite. Get yourself down to the Galimore Field at the south end of Riberia Street between the hours of 11 and 3 and don't forget a basket or bag for the goodies you'll find there.
To do -
Downtown resident, Jan Jertson, has a collection of his portrait studies hanging at the St Augustine Arts Association in the Marguerita Phillips North Gallery. Jertson is one of the original founders of the St Johns Cultural Council and an accomplished artist, so be sure to stop by and see his work. While you're there, check out the 10th Annual Tactile Art Show. This is a juried exhibit of touchable art and part of the International Art Beyond Sight initiative that takes place at prestigious museums around the world. Students from St Augustine's Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind have created Braille tags for the exhibit and will also participate in guided tours and hands-on art activities during the run.
Thank goodness the nor'easter has gone on its way, although it left a wake of broken limbs, downed trees and dampened spirits at all the events being held this past weekend. Thanks to all who braved the rain and wind and came out to support the Greek Festival, First Friday Art Walk and the Aviles Street Festival.
Thanks to all who send me news they want to share.
Irene Arriola
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THE PIRATE MUSEUM: ONE OF THE 16 BEST ATTRACTIONS FOR FAMILIES
September 01, 2011
Are you looking for something to do with your family? According to Budget Travel, St Augustine has one of the 16 best Summer Attractions for Families.
Swashbucklers, hoist your sails and head for the artifact-packed St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum (12 S. Castillo Dr.). This is the only place in the world to display an authentic pirate's treasure chest (property of Captain Thomas Tew roughly 400 years ago), plus a 19th-century Jolly Roger flag and an original "Wanted" poster with a 500-pound sterling reward for the capture of pirate Henry Every, dated 1696. Across the street, cannon-firing demonstrations take place Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at the Castillo de San Marcos fort.
Visit www.thepiratemuseum.com for more information.
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CITY FEATURED AS TOP RETIREMENT TOWN
August 12, 2011
Carlee Mausner informed local reporters with Historic City News that St. Augustine has been selected by "Where to Retire" magazine as a "top retirement town" and will be profiled in the September-October issue; available nationwide on August 23rd.
According to demographics provided by "Where to Retire" magazine, promotion of our area to people making decisions to relocate in their retirement is a smart economic development strategy. Each year, 700,000 Americans relocate to new 
towns to retire. "They bring significant economic benefits to their new states and hometowns," Mausner said. "St. Augustine possesses qualities important to today's retirees," editor Mary Lu Abbott told Historic City News. "Its colorful past as the nation's oldest city lures many to St. Augustine, where beautiful beaches and an easygoing lifestyle add to its appeal."
Retirees find it's less crowded than some parts of Florida and not as hot, and golfers relish the area's outstanding courses," Abbott said. That could be good news if the city and county are looking for families with fewer school-aged children; who put a load on an already loaded school system. Generally, relocating retirees are healthier, better educated and more affluent than those who choose to not relocate. Abbot told Historic City News, "Nationally, two dozen states and hundreds of towns seek to attract retirees."
"Where to Retire" magazine was launched in 1992 and Abbott says that they are the only magazine in America geared toward helping readers find the ideal place to retire. Published six times a year, the magazine covers the best retirement regions, towns and master-planned communities, and has a national circulation of 200,000.
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ST. AUGUSTINE WELCOMES SARA'S CREPE CAFE
July 15, 2011
Margarita Abramov had a dream of opening her first restaurant in St. Augustine, Florida. Today SARA'S CREPE CAFÉ takes its place in history at #100 St. George Street (corner of Hypolita and Spanish Street). She has transformed an existing space and courtyard into an inviting and elegant little café, surrounded by hundreds of years of European and American history.
As a tribute to her grandmother Sara, the menu of family-inspired dishes carries a century of time-honored flavors, presentation and love. Served daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the sweet and savory crepes and Belgian waffles are made with the freshest local ingredients whether dining in the open-air courtyard or in Margarita's colorful dining room. It's adorned with authentic treasured Russian gifts ~ and music fills the air as Margarita welcomes her guests as if they were family!
To view a sampling of their signature crepes visit www.sarascrepecafe.com.
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DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORS 07.28.2011
July 28, 2011
This Saturday is Wendy Tatter's sixth anniversary Chicken Show at the WB Tatter 
Gallery located at 76A San Marco Avenue. Why did the chicken cross the road? To get to this event, of course! Featuring a FLOCK of artists including Sydney McKenna, Jan Miller, Jean Troemel, Beau Redmond, Bo Sterk, Kathy Marsh, Steve Marrazzo, John Richards, Claudia Dunaway, Rosamond Parrish, Heather Blanton, Deborah Spiller, Lisa Brown, Jim Quine, Kelly Bickman, Don Martin, Val Lucas and Michelle Robideaux-Pent - you'd better put this on your must-do list. Reception starts at 5pm. After you've had your chicken fix you can visit all the other great spots on San Marco and enjoy Uptown Saturday Night. Visit www.wbtatter.com.
Downtown Bridge Street resident Jan Jertson celebrated his 80th birthday last Wednesday at the St Augustine Art Association where a group of friends gathered to celebrate. If you haven't congratulated him, this is your chance and if you don't Jan, make sure to read "All Roads Lead to .... St Augustine" in the June 26th edition of the St Augustine Record. Happy Birthday Jan!
Hookey Hamilton of Avenida Menendez wrote to tell me about her talented next door neighbor. Daisy Davis's granddaughter, Samantha Morden, is one of the young artists featured during the month of August at Simple Gestures. Samantha and her family moved to St Augustine so she could attend the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind since she is legally blind. Excited to move here because of the art scene, she took some of her drawings on magnets to Simple Gestures where Uncle Stevo loved them and sold them. He and Sue came up with the idea of a student show and the rest is, as they say, history. In addition to Samantha, Brennan Coker, Sophie Clingan-Darack, Rae Wilson and Kim Goedhart will be the featured young artists. Join them for the opening at the First Friday Art Walk on August 5th. Simple Gestures is located at 4 White Street, immediately south of Gypsy Cab on Anastasia Boulevard.
I don't know how many of you saw the refurbished 1952 CJ-3 Willys Jeep that traveled through town on July 21st to raise awareness and donations for the Salute our Troops campaign. During the trip through the city several local military heroes were recognized, including Sergeant Major Ray Quinn. SGM Quinn is a past president and current member of the Board of Directors for the Florida National Guard, a former County Commissioner and the 2000 Employee of the Year for the FL Department of Military Affairs. For more information about the tour and how you can participate visit KEsalute.com and follow the Jeep Tour at facebook.com/kangarooexpress.
Lynn Anderson reminds us that August 3rd is the date for the monthly luncheon and fashion show held at the Casa Monica Hotel. Featuring early fall fashions by Ann Taylor Loft, the guest model will be Donna Lueders from Take Stock in Children with the St Johns Educational Foundation. Starting at 11:30, reservations are recommended. Call 810-6810 to reserve your table.
Leigh Cort wants you to know that Sara's Crepe Café is open for business at 100 St George Street. A grand opening was held on July 14th and the reviews were excellent. Featuring a scrumptious menu, there's even a gluten-free option, so everyone is welcome. On July 30th and 31st you can enjoy the live music of Derryck Lawrence who brings his silky voice to the courtyard for an added touch of romance. Visit SarasCrepeCafe.com for more information.
Don't forget the live concerts at the Plaza every Thursday evening (and bring your umbrella just to be sure).
See you on the street!
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DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORS 07.13.2011
July 13, 2011
Our friends, Steve and Sue Marrazzo, want to remind you about the annual Ludicrous Art Sale being held at Simple Gestures from 11am to 6pm on July 15th and 16th. Due to temporary insanity, many of their artists are banding together to offer art at insane prices. A good time is guaranteed for all and if Mother Nature sends us rain, Uncle Stevo has you covered! For more info, call 827-9997.
On July 18th the inaugural meeting of the St Augustine 450th Commemoration Commission will be held at the Flagler College Auditorium at 14 Granada Street. The event starts at 10am and the public is invited and encouraged to attend. US Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar, Florida Senator Bill Nelson and Congressman John Mica will be speaking at the meeting. This is an exciting opportunity for you to come out and show your community support for the commemoration.
Claude and Nicole Franques of Claude's Chocolate want to invite you to "beat the heat" with a great summer event being held at their other location at The Shoppes at St Johns Oaks, 145 Hilden Road. On August 13th from 4pm to 7pm, you can tour Claude's chocolate factory where there will be demonstrations and tastings of truffles, bonbons, chocolate bark and some fantastic sparkling wines. Located right next door, A. Chef's Cooking Studio will be holding demonstrations of mozzarella-making and you will be tasting imported cheeses, olives and cured meats with additional sparkling wines. Sounds like a scrumptious thing to do in August - put it on your list. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Call 829.5790 or 827.1530 for more information or visit www.claudeschocolates.com
Congratulations:
Kathy Dvornick, Director of the Florida Heritage Book Festival since its inception, has been honored with a commemorative brick in the lovely patio nestled between the Visitor Information Center and the ancient Huguenot Cemetery. Purchased through the Colonial St Augustine Foundation, the brick was laid on July 2nd and the sponsorship came from the members of the Turnberry Readers, a World Golf Village neighborhood book club founded and facilitated by Kathy. This year's festival is scheduled for September 23rd and 24th and you can visit www.fhbookfest.com for details and reservations.
2011 was a pivotal year for the St Augustine Music Festival and there are bravos all around. Under the direction of Jorge A Pena, the event has blossomed into a summertime cultural highlight. This year attendees came from Georgia, Tampa and Orlando, to name just a few places, and this signifies that the event is becoming a regional destination after only five years. Plans for the 2012 season are already underway, so stay tuned.
The St Augustine Sculpture Garden held its grand opening on June 26th and there was a terrific crowd, including many downtown residents, on hand to hear the dedication made by Thomas Glover W., enjoy the potluck feast while being serenaded by musicians and to wander through the Lakeside Park and revel in the sculptures available for everyone's enjoyment. This was a 14-year labor of love - thanks to all who made art in public places a reality.
Important news:
The St Augustine Lighthouse and Museum is offering all St Johns County residents a chance to visit the museum for one year at the price of one visit. Called the Resident Pass Program, this is a generous way to thank all the locals for their years of support. Put on your comfortable shoes and make your way to the Lighthouse. For info, call 829-0745 or visit www.staugustinelighthouse.org.
By the time you read this column, the Oldest Store Museum will have held its grand opening at 167 San Marco Avenue, home of the Old Town Trolley Tours and Old Jail. It's been over a decade since the items in the museum were last seen at their former location on Artillery Lane downtown. For a brief history check out the article that appeared in the Record on July 11th, but more importantly, take a walk through time by visiting this newest museum in St Augustine.
The Dow Museum of Historic Houses has engaged Roy Shaffer as the new coordinator of this favorite St Augustine destination. You'll notice the many improvements made already and the good news is that the museum is now open again on Mondays with the first Monday of each month offering free admission to St Augustine residents. If you've never been, it's a must. If you haven't been in ages, what are you waiting for?
Welcome:
San Marco Avenue has a new gallery at 76B San Marco Avenue. The Hellas Arts Gallery & Studio opened its door recently and it's a welcome addition to the uptown district. Featuring the photography of Harry Hellas, Hellas was on hand to photograph the St Augustine Music Festival at the Cathedral-Basilica in late June and you can see this event and more of his work when you visit the gallery. Visit www.hellasarts.com
So much to do, so much to see and so much to enjoy - see you around town.
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BRIDE OF LIONS MAKES NATION'S TOP TEN BRIDGES OF 2010
May 01, 2011
Historic City News has learned that the rehabilitation of St. Augustine's historic Bridge of Lions, led by facilities and infrastructure consulting firm RS&H, has been ranked fourth in the nation's Top 10 Bridges of 2010, according to Roads & Bridges magazine. Read more...
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DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORS 06.23.2011
June 23, 2011
Residents of the Flagler Model Land Company neighborhood recently came out in force for the June 11th block party held on St Andrews Court. By last count, over 60 neighbors enjoyed munching on culinary delicacies and tapping their toes to the music provided by Lonesome Bert & the Skinny Lizards. I'm told Sevilla St resident Cathy Brown took up the microphone for a song or two! Long‐time residents mingled with newcomers and Becky Greenberg and Cathi Oakes pronounced the event a big success. There's nothing like a block party - you reconnect with old friends, make new ones and take a moment to appreciate the finer points of small town living.
Downtown residents Rhey Palmer and Dave Brezing want me to remind you that the Fifth Annual St Augustine Music Festival 
continues this Thursday through Saturday and you don't want to miss it. On Thursday, June 23, the program is "Mozart and More," on Friday the 24th, "Summer Music" will include selections from Brahms, Beethoven, Ernst Sachse, Johan Halvorsen and Mozart, and the program will conclude with Saturday's "Back to Bach." Being held at the Cathedral Basilica at 38 Cathedral Place, all concerts are free to the public and each performance starts at 7:30. This is an extraordinary opportunity to enjoy a classical music festival in the gilded splendor of the historic Cathedral and it's free!
Batik artist and gallery owner, Wendy Tatter wants you to remember that this Saturday is Uptown Saturday Night where the merchants of San Marco Avenue keep their doors open late so you can enjoy the art and retail offerings presented there. The WB Tatter Gallery's featured artist for June 25th is Lisa Brown who is known for her paintings on glass. Be sure to mark your calendars for July 30th when Wendy will host her own 6th Anniversary Event with the "All Chicken Show." Many of your favorite artists, including city residents Beau Redmond and Deane Kellogg, will be participating and music will be provided by Cheryl Watson and Watertown.
Downtown residents Thomas Glover and Marianne Lerbs invite everyone to the grand opening of the St Augustine Sculpture Garden this Sunday the 26th from 5pm to 9pm. Glover and others have persevered for over 13 years looking for a public home so that one and all can enjoy these
powerful works of art. Lakeside Park on A1A (adjacent to the St Augustine Beach Police Department and City Hall) is the spot and Sunday's event is a potluck with a live music jam. Bring a chair or blanket and something to share and take a stroll through the park and enjoy the sculptures. Visit www.st-augustine-sculpture-garden.org for more info.
Joel Bagnal of Avenida Menendez is excited to open the Goldsmith's Shop at 11B Aviles Street next Friday, July 1st, just in time for the First Friday Art Walk. Located inside Dan Holiday's Leather Shop, this partnership offers over 50 years of leathersmithing and over 40 years of goldsmithing, setting a standard for experience and quality craftsmanship in the heart of Old Town, St Augustine. Bagnal will offer a unique collection of handmade jewelry for sale and will continue to specialize in custom designs with an emphasis on personally designed wedding and partnership rings. Make sure you put this on your list of places to be for the July First Friday Art Walk. Congratulations to Joel!
David Ouellette of Water Street is the featured artist at the St Johns County Administration Building where his energizing and dynamic paintings will be exhibited from June 21st through September 23rd at the Rotunda Gallery. Located at 500 San Sebastian Way just off US 1 North, this is a show worth seeing and the Rotunda is a beautiful place to showcase art. Make it a point to see Ouellette's work and to support Art in Public Places. For more info call 471.9980.
Downtown resident Jean McDowell wants to know if you have an interest in starting a St Augustine Montessori School. A group of parents and teachers have already submitted an application this summer in the hopes of opening the school for the 2012‐2013 school year.
Summer's here and the heat is on - stay cool and I'll see you on the street.
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DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORS 05.24.2011
May 24, 2011
Before the summer rush of visitors is upon us and the lucky locals depart for cooler climes, make time to check out some fabulous new shops and galleries in town!
Down the Rabbit Hole is located in one of the city's most recognizable buildings at 81 San Marco Avenue, just south of the Mission. Jose and Monica Lopez opened their lovely shop in early spring and it's already a favorite stop. Featuring unique handmade creations by local and international artisans, you'll find beautiful clothing, jewelry, gifts worth giving and receiving, vintage finds and antique furnishings. Boasting a wonderful courtyard with an antique iron gate, put this store on your to-do list. Call 824-4410 for hours.
City residents, Craig and Susan Jinbo, are taking the Art of BBQ to 62-B Spanish Street. Proprietors of the Art of BBQ at 56 San Marco Avenue (surely you've seen the big pink pig!), they are opening a branch downtown so you can revel in their tasty wares without leaving the neighborhood. Check them out at http://www.theartofbbqonline.com Susan hopes to be open this Saturday so stop by to welcome them to the downtown district.
There is a lot going on at the Spanish Plaza located at 100 St George Street. Kiwi Traders has just opened up shop at Suite H and you'll find great canvas bags, fun watches in brilliant colors, shades and sunhats (much needed today!), casual and comfortable shoes, cards and jewelry - one stop shopping. Open from 11 to 6 daily.
Sara's Crepes will be opening July 1st at the Spanish Plaza. The menu is scrumptious with sweet and savory crepes plus beer and wine service. You'll be able to enjoy these tasty treats inside and out in the walled courtyard as well. Stay tuned for more info.
If you haven't been to the Cottage Garden at 70 St George Street, you are truly missing out. A shop for home, garden and the soul, the courtyard with its gurgling fountains will draw you in and then you're hooked. Offering beautiful, useful and comforting wares, including handmade wreaths and tiles, clean-burning soy candles, tasteful gifts, a variety of bags, solar paper lanterns, Vintage Home Scents and great pillows, there's a steady stream of tourists already enjoying this shop so put on your walking shoes and get down there.
Fresh Produce has opened its doors at 139 St George Street offering colorful casual clothing for women of all age groups. The staff is super and the clothing suits our climate and laid back lifestyle. The new stores feature Fresh Produce's beach-chic styles including sundresses, breezy tunics, capris, skirts and essential basics for the warm-weather days. Visit www.freshproduceclothes.com for more information
Amiro Gallery at 9 Aviles Street will be opening its doors for the June 3rd First Friday Art Walk. Amiro is the Timucuan word for "abundance" and it's the perfect word to describe the people who have come together to offer their works of wood, clay, metal, canvas, paper and glass for your pleasure. Landscape painter and professor from Valdosta State College, Julie Bowland and local artists, Nancy Hamlin-Vogler and Kathy Marsh will be showing their work alongside the core group including Ginny Bullard, Estella Fransbergen, Deane Kellogg, Jan Master, Wendy Mandel McDaniel and Marcia Siany. All of the artists will be on hand to welcome you to their new home. Visit their blog at http://amiroart.blogspot.com
Elyse Brady reminds us that registration is underway for Summer Art Camps at the St Augustine Art Association, located at 22 Marine Street. Children in grades 1 through 6 will learn about master artists while experimenting with a wide array of media. Four sessions are offered at $89 per session and the classes run from 9am to noon the weeks of June 13-17, June 20-24, July 11-15 and July 18-22. Art Camps for Teens offers two sessions running from 1 to 3:30 July 11-15 and July 18-22. The summer will end with an Art Walk-on-the-Wild Side Art Camp exhibit on August 5th. For more information, visit www.staaa.org.
See you on the street -
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DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORS 05.11.2011
May 11, 2011
DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORS -
April 16th was a big night to be sure!
The Noon Rotary Club of St Augustine held their spring fundraiser at the Skeet Club and President Earl Ward deemed the event to be a huge success. Over $15,000 was raised this year with the net proceeds split equally between Hospice of Northeast Florida and the St Johns Welfare Federation. Visit www.staugustinesunriserotary.com.
Thanks to Brad Runk for the oyster roast, J B Coomes and crew for the fish fry, Rhonda James for her great chowder, Betty Crosby for her famous coconut cakes and Jodi Kotrady Hatin for her expertise in the kitchen - I'm here to tell you every bit was delicious. Lonesome Bert & the Skinny Lizards provided the entertainment while Rotarians and their guests dined and danced, bid on silent auction items and entered the 50/50 draw.
Downtown resident and co-chair of the event, Paul Thompson, got his sister Giselle to help out this year and co-chair Betty Crosby had a front row seat when Paul finished up the evening with a smooch to Betty the 3-month old piglet.
Downtown residents Cathy Brown and her husband, Wonderful Warren Butler hosted a birthday party that same night at their Sevilla Street home for the lovely Kate Brown. Guests feasted on Cathy's pork perlau and collard greens and there was laughter ringing out from every room. Happy Birthday Kate!
Save the dates!
Mark your calendars for this Saturday, April 30 from 10am to 4pm when one of downtown's favorite artists, Jerry Peters, invites you to the Ceramics in the Garden Show and Sale. Clay Network is sponsoring this third annual Spring Garden Show and there will be ceramic sculpture plus ornamental and functional pottery. Set your GPS for 320 Ravenswood Drive and prepare to be infused with spring fever. Call 501.0757 for more information.
EMMA presents its free concert and annual meeting this Sunday, May 1st at the Flagler College Auditorium starting at 2pm. This special performance by the Movado String Quartet features classical guitarist Stephen Robinson, Professor of Music and founding director of the Guitar Program at Stetson University. The short business meeting that follows will introduce the EMMA board members to the audience and announce plans for the upcoming 33rd season. Congratulations to all on a successful 32nd season - bravo!
Lynn Anderson reminds us that May 4th is the date for the monthly Luncheon Fashion Show at the Casa Monica Hotel. This show will feature a new boutique, The Gauzeway, located on Hypolita Street. Offering a variety of summer coordinates for the upcoming hot summer days, be sure to call 810.6810 for your reservation.
During First Friday Art Walk on May 6th, Anastasia Books will have Robert N Macomber on hand to discuss his new novel, "Honor Bound." This ninth novel represents the One-Millionth Word in his Honor Series - a big milestone in the literary world. The reception starts at 5:30 and Anastasia Books is located at 81C King Street, behind the Bank of St Augustine. Visit www.anastasiabooks.com.
St Augustine Community Orchestra presents its summer program with a concert at the Lightner Museum on Friday, May 13th starting at 8pm. The program will feature music by composers of the Romantic Period from the 19th century and promises to be an enjoyable experience for the audience. Admission is $10 at the door and there is no reserved seating. Children under 12 are admitted free. The Lightner Museum is located at 25 Granada Street.
And don't forget that the Gamble Rogers Folk Festival is being held downtown starting April 29th through May 1st. Visit www.gamblerogersfest.org to find all the artists, venues and important stuff you need to know.
See you around town -
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ST AUGUSTINE SCULPTURE GARDEN
May 24, 2011
DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORS
Hats off to everyone who came together to make the Chisel, Swizzle and Swing fundraiser a successful happening at Mardi Gras on April 22nd. The goal was to generate money to complete the St Augustine Sculpture Garden installation at Lakeside Park next to the St Augustine Beach City Hall. Local restaurants and vendors donated desserts and coffees, Pat Paolini opened up the Mardi Gras on San Marco Avenue for the event and provided champagne for the attendees and three bands, Lonesome Bert & the Skinny Lizards, the Restless Kind and JAIDD, rocked the place and got people out on the dance floor.
Thanks to Thomas Glover W who has persevered for over 14 years to get these amazing sculptures into a public place for all to enjoy. Bravo to Janine Newfield for her impromptu violin concert and for hostessing and bravo to Janine LeBlanc and Adam Morley for showing us the meaning of dance.
And our gratitude to the following for their generous donations and support: City of St Augustine Beach, City of St Augustine Beach Beautification Committee, New World Realty, Butterfield Garage, Butterfield Too Art Gallery, Mardi Gras, Pat Paolini and the staff, A1A Ale Works, Amici’s Restaurant, Claude’s Chocolates, the Reef, Harry’s Seafood, the Floridian Restaurant, La Pentola, Le Pavillion, Luli’s Cupcakes, the Original Café 11 and the Dettra Family, St John’s Heating and Air and Gary Fox, Manatee Café, Meehan’s on the Matanzas, Ned’s Southside Kitchen, Raintree Restaurant and Lorna MacDonald (for passing the word on to the SAIRA members), Sunset Grille, Prosperity Bank, First Southern Bank, Wachovia Bank, Ruth and Thomas O’Nell, Harold Lock, Marianne Lerbs, Kevin Lang and her niece Meghan, Lewis Whimsatt, Lisa “Mack” Switkin, Colleen Murphy, Betsy Potterfield, Irene Arriola, Leann Lombari, Jim Rivers, Henry Le Duc, Mark the Bartender, Linda Ortagus, Robin Nadeau, Shirley Chase, Maria and Astra Rincon, Ellen Kirouac, M Gabriel, Margaret Billesimo, Isabel Brandariz, Diane Rabideau-Wise, Pierre and Shirley Thompson, Paul Thompson, Jennifer J Sickler, Linda Gorey and Valerie Davenport. If I left anyone out, please consider yourself enthusiastically thanked as well.
Please visit www.st-augustine-sculpture-garden.org for more information about this exciting “art in public places” and we’ll keep you posted on the grand unveiling scheduled to take place in late June.
The Floridian was host to the May 3rd quarterly meeting of the recently renamed Flagler Model Land Company Neighborhood Association. Elections were held and the officers are Becky Greenberg, President, Jean Courter, Vice-President, Sandy Smith, Secretary and Jerry Peters, Treasurer. One of the high points (and there were many) was Jerry’s reading from “Henry Morrison Flagler, A Memoriam.” We heard about the winter of 1883-1884 when Flagler returned to Florida to begin construction of the Ponce de Leon Hotel, which was his first, but by no means, his last, large undertaking in the state of Florida. This was the perfect introduction to the evening’s speaker, John Regan, City Manager, who brought the neighbors up-to-date on all the important things going on in the city.
This is a wonderful place to live – seize the day and enjoy it.See you around town.
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DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORS 04.12.11
April 12, 2011
Hats off to A Classic Theatre for a successful and enjoyable three-day run of "Mark Twain....and More," which was held last Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the Ximenez-Fatio House at 20 Aviles Street. I caught the show on Friday night and saw a lot of familiar faces both on-stage and off. There's nothing like live theatre in an outdoor venue - bravo to all!
Speaking of Aviles Street, here's some news:
Our friend Linda Holmes has recently joined the Faver Gallery at 11A Aviles Street. Linda's has shown her work in many galleries in St Augustine and she is delighted to call the Faver Gallery her new home. Stop by to check out her art digs.
Amiro Art is the newest gallery on Aviles Street and it's an exciting group who are putting together this cooperative venture. Ginny Bullard, Estella Fransbergen, Deane Kellogg, Jan Master, Wendy Mandel McDaniel and Marcia Siany are excited to bring us works in wood, clay, metal, canvas, paper and glass. Amiro hopes to be open in time for the May 6th First Friday Art Walk so stay tuned for more information. Their website, www.amiroart.com is also a work in progress so keep it on your favorites list.
Becky Greenberg wants me to remind the residents and merchants of the Flagler Model Land Company Neighborhood Association that the next quarterly meeting for the neighborhood is on May 3rd and will be held at The Floridian at 39 Cordova Street. The meeting starts at 7pm but get there a bit earlier so you can schmooze with new and old neighbors.
Yvette Monell Richardson from Old City Life asked that I mention the upcoming "Orchids for Hospice" event being held on Saturday, May 7th from 10am till noon at the St Augustine Yacht Club. All proceeds will benefit the Bailey Family Center for Caring Community Hospice of Northeast Florida. Orchid donations are being sought as well as other donations for door prizes and the event is free and open to the public. There will be entertainment and light hors d'oeuvres and lots of fun for a very good cause.
Save the date: April 22nd is the "Chisel, Swizzle & Swing" multi-sensory celebration to support the upcoming grand unveiling of the long awaited St Augustine Sculpture Garden. We're hoping to raise enough money to put the finishing touches on the "garden" so it can officially open for everyone's enjoyment. The "garden" was over 14 years in the making and we're almost to the finish line so please call 824-4493 or visit www.st-augustine-sculpture-garden.org. The event is being held at Mardi Gras at 123 San Marco Avenue and it starts at 7pm. There will be dance exhibitions and instruction, gourmet coffee, dessert and champagne, a recycled glass art auction and live music by JAIDD, The Restless Kind and Lonesome Bert & the Skinny Lizards. Tickets are $20 and we hope you can join us.
The Veddy Theatre Group is offering an Etiquette Class for Kids at the Casa Monica Hotel at 95 Cordova Street. The class is designed for ages 6 to 14 and includes 4 hours of instruction and a supervised 3-course lunch at the hotel's restaurant. The event is April 22nd (no school that day) from 10am to 2pm. The class fills up quickly so contact www.veddytheatre.org or 806-2423 for information and tickets, which are $49.
Last but not least, on May 8th the St Augustine Community Ballet presents "Peter and the Wolf" with Paquita Suite. Directed by Luis Abella and being held at the Kirk Memorial Auditorium at the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind at 207 San Marco Avenue. The show starts at 2pm and there are Mother's Day discounts for mothers and children. Visit www.saintaugustinecommunityballet.com or call 810-5670 for tickets and information.
Everything is greening up nicely and most of the pollen has washed away, so everyone take a deep breath and say hello to summer which is just around the corner.
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AAA NAMES ST. AUGUSTINE IN TOP TEN OF AMERICA'S MOST WALKABLE CITIES
April 01, 2011
"The top ten cities include places for every type of traveler," said Bill Wood, Executive Editor of AAA Publishing. "The true beauty of these vacation spots lies in exploring them by foot, allowing travelers to absorb the personality and essence of the city - all while exercising, conserving fuel and saving money on gas." All of the cities on AAA's list of top ten walkable cities have incredible histories to share. Self-guided walking tours are a fun, relaxing, and healthy way to see these cities. These top 10 cities were identified by AAA's travel editors and more details can be found in AAA's popular TourBook ® guides and on aaa.com.
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FIRST FRIDAY MAY ARTWALK RECEPTION
April 18, 2011
JOIN US MAY 6TH FOR FIRST FRIDAY ARTWALK
Jason Fort, a well-known designer from Jacksonville, will display some of his most recent works in incredible digital art prints and furniture design. Jason would like you to join him and view this innovative and thought provoking body of work. This event will include 3 series of works in digital art print form, all transformed from inventions that he has designed. His prints have depth, dimension and contemplative qualities. This work has a new energy and drive not to be missed!
Reception from 5 to 9pm with refreshments and live music on the balcony with Lonesome Bert and the Skinny Lizards. Saltwater Gallery, 81 King Street, Suite B, St. Augustine, FL 32084. 904.829.2002.
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4TH QUARTER MARKET REPORT FOR NORTHEASTERN FLORIDA
March 01, 2011
2010 Local Market Reports--Fourth Quarter
Every housing market is unique. This Local Market Report (LMR) - which reflects data available through 4th Quarter 2010 - provides insight into the fundamentals and direction of the nation's largest metropolitan housing markets. Each report evaluates a number of factors affecting home prices, including:
- The health of the local job market
- Foreclosure rates
- Housing inventory
- Debt-to-income and mortgage-servicing-costs-to-income ratios
Click here to view the 4th Quarter 2010 Local Market Report
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JOIN US MARCH 4TH FOR FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK
February 28, 2011
A rare showing of David Ouellette's recent works, "You can have your cake and eat it too...," featuring enamels on canvas and a first opportunity to see a selection of his watercolors not shown before. The enamels are brilliant, vibrant and dynamic while the watercolors dance on paper. A delicacy awaits the discerning art palate. Reception from 5 to 9pm with refreshments and live music on the balcony. Saltwater Gallery, 81 King Street, Suite B, St. Augustine, FL 32084. 904.829.2002.
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PORTRAIT OF AN AUGUPHILE
March 21, 2011
PORTRAIT OF AN AUGUPHILE
Yes, "auguphile" is a made-up word. Mustered for the occasion, if you will. But it was constructed using strict rules of Latin concatenation and the finest of materials: one part St Augustine, and one part love. So pay attention, sleepy scholars.
The Latin suffix -phile tells us that whatever header it follows is an object of fond attention for whoever carries it. So, "auguphile" denotes a lover of St Augustine, and we have only to actually locate one of these to demonstrate the referential need for it and Bingo! it's Oxford Dictionary here we come!
The more flagrant of these subjects are easily found. You can see them walking across the bridge, beaming in the early morning sun. They lie on the Castillo green reading Travis McGee. There will always be a few at the end of the pier, squinting into the green water. They walk on the beaches and they sip coffee at sidewalk tables and they cruise by on their bikes, and they don't care if you see them practicing their auguphilia(another strict rule applied).
They love the physical aspects of this town. The summer sun, the winter cool, the endless waterways, the gentle roll of roughs and greens, the "thwack" of a properly addressed tennis ball; it all gives them tangible contact with the object of their affection.
But that's all obvious, so pretend I didn't have to tell you. Auguphilia may be practiced on another level altogether, in a kinetic dimension where attraction is measured in terms of what's happening. Check the parking lots. Full? There must be a fascinating lecture by an elegant egghead at the Flagler Auditorium. Model A Fords rolling down San Marco? Strange folks in antique costumes? Dragoons with torches? Spooky sounds from the back of the ghost tour group? Wait, I think I hear chamber music.
The portfolio for this little town is bulging with activities rivaling the scope of many a big-city cultural mecca. If love is something you do, then you can do it just about every day in St Augustine.
And then, of course, there are serious Augustologists. These are people who have somehow seen into the very heart of the situation here and said, yes, this is the place for me. Dunroaming. Home at last. Some of them grew up here, travelled widely, came back. And won't leave. Others chanced upon it, perhaps remembered it from a dream, woke up and claimed it, their own private Xanadu, their own "stately pleasure dome" wrought in coquina and stucco.
When you, Auguphile, count your blessings(and I recommend this once daily) you will find the list lengthy. Apply a hint of adventure and it will grow every day. Ask around at the next Augustologer luncheon to see what delights your peers and share your own insights. I know a man who never leaves his studio except to scout for his next painting subject. Loves it here. I know a man who sailed in one day and threw away his charts. Staying.
I won't even mention "freezing up in Buffalo, stuck in their cars" or any such cheap shots at climatological unfortunosities. Anybody can get bad weather. We're sorry. We try to be sorry.
Nor will I hint at the laundry list of onerous alternatives in the near vicinity. Pure geographical disadvantage, I'm afraid. At least we're close enough for them to drive up and spend the weekend. But I will say this, just for clarity: Have you ever heard of anyone called a Miamiphile, or a Orlandologist? I thought not.
Find your spot. Find your friend's spot. Find Spot's spot. You're going to love it here.
