Good morning, St. Augustine.

On Thursday, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier presented Kirsten Bridegan with the Back the Blue Award for her Bexley Box Initiative, which delivers comfort boxes with diapers+snacks+toys to children in police stations.

Bridegan started the program after her husband was murdered three years ago and her foundation has donated 66 boxes to law enforcement agencies.

Two Florida bills would raise fines and penalties for speeding over 50 mph or driving 100 mph — House Bill 351 sets a flat $500 fine for a first offense and $5,000 with a one-year license revocation for a second while Senate Bill 1782 would impose fines up to $1,000 for a first offense with a six-month license suspension and 30-day impoundment for later offenses — and if passed and signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, they will take effect on July 1st.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier presented the Back the Blue Award to Kirsten Bridegan at the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office Thursday morning for her Bexley Box initiative, which honors her late husband Jared who was fatally shot in Jacksonville Beach in 2022.

The Bridegan Foundation has placed 66 boxes in law enforcement offices across 17 states and Uthmeier said he will work to have a Bexley Box in every Florida law enforcement office by the end of 2025—two suspects in Jared's murder will return to Duval County court Friday with a trial set to begin in October.

Kirsten Bridegan—together with her daughters London and Bexley—received Florida’s Back the Blue Award for her Bexley Boxes at the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office on March 27 when Attorney General James Uthmeier presented the honor.

Florida lawmakers are considering a bill that would ban holding a phone while driving and allow only hands-free use; drivers would face fines and license points for repeated offenses.

The bill will take effect on July 1 if approved and signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis—penalties for construction zone violations are higher—aiming to make driving safer.

St. Augustine Lions Seafood Festival 2025

Enjoy a two-day celebration featuring fresh seafood, live entertainment, and artisan crafts at Francis Field in St. Augustine.

Live Music Performance by Kristy Lee

Experience a live music performance by Kristy Lee at Café Eleven, featuring general admission and reserved seating options.

Irish Storytelling and Comedy Night

8:00-9:30 p.m. — The Waterworks — No Refunds — Enjoy a night of entertaining Irish storytelling and comedy by Derek Coghlan.

Earth Adventures at Trailmark

10 AM – 2 PM — Trailmark Living — Free entry — Experience interactive wildlife exhibits and support local crafts at a family-friendly event.

Arts & Crafts Show at St. Augustine Beach

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday — St. Johns County Pavilion — Free entry — Discover nearly 100 artisans showcasing their vibrant creations in jewelry, pottery, and more.

Mat Pilates & Sound Bath

5-6 p.m. — Oldest City Arts & Wellness Lounge — Cost not specified — A rejuvenating blend of Pilates Flow and a soothing Sound Bath for complete relaxation.

BBQ and Beer at the Barn

6:30-9:30 p.m. — HorsePlay Therapy Center — $25.00 – $75.00 — Enjoy a festive evening with BBQ, line dancing, and mechanical bull rides.

Oceanfront Easter Brunch Buffet

11 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Embassy Suites by Hilton St Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort — $30 - $80 — Indulge in a delightful buffet with live music and an Easter Egg Hunt while overlooking the beach.

Florida's Photo Fest

9 AM – 3 PM — Celebration Hall at St. Anastasia — Ticket information not provided — Explore over 130 photography and birding events with top international photographers in a scenic coastal setting.

Culinary Collaborative Dinner

6-9 p.m. — Michael's St. Augustine — Ticketed event — Savor a multi-course seated dinner with acclaimed chefs while supporting local history and community.