Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 31st of July.
Good morning, St. Augustine.
🏘️ Community
Throughout July, St. Augustine experienced a busy mix of events—fishing tournaments, playground openings, storms, lightning strikes, a plane crash, protests, and Habitat for Humanity home dedications, along with historic home sales and a hit musical performance of Hairspray.
Residents saw these varied activities that highlighted the city's vibrant community spirit.
📰 Economy
Florida's back-to-school sales tax holiday will run from Aug.
1-31—replacing the previous two-week event—and gives families a chance to save on school supplies as most students start class on Aug. 11.
🎓 Education
A new Florida law bans elementary and middle school students from using wireless devices during school while high school students may use them only in designated areas with teacher permission — individual districts may set harsher rules.
Most schools will start classes on Aug. 11 as students still may carry phones for emergencies or medical needs.
🌲 Environment
Florida is home to about 1.3 million alligators, with the St. Johns River estimated to host more than 5,100 of these animals.
Officials advise residents to keep a safe distance, avoid feeding the reptiles, and swim only in designated areas during daylight hours—guidance that helps people coexist with this wildlife.
🏛️ Government
The St. Augustine City Commission unanimously approved a resolution that aligns its definition of antisemitism with Florida Statute 1.015 and the working definition of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance to counter rising antisemitism — a measure backed by Mayor Nancy Sikes-Kline and local Jewish groups.
St. Augustine city leaders said they will advertise for a person or business to donate, operate and maintain a carousel at Davenport Park—after the original donor left due to health issues—to bring back the beloved ride for local visitors.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced that his office will no longer contract with law firms that engage in DEI or ESG programs, arguing these practices amount to illegal discrimination.
The memo directs a review of current contracts—with noncompliant firms set to lose future state work.
🏥 Health
The Florida Department of Health reported that Vibrio vulnificus cases increased to 13 with 4 deaths across several counties including Bay and Okaloosa.
Health officials advise those with weak immune systems to wear proper foot protection and avoid swimming with open wounds—measures that can help prevent serious infections.
🎉 St. Augustine Events
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Brad Paisley Live Concert
7-9 p.m. — The St. Augustine Amphitheatre — $39.75-$79.75 — Experience the electrifying performance of country music star Brad Paisley as he brings his hits to life.
Cypress Hill & Atmosphere: Dank Daze of Summer Tour
6:30-10 p.m. — The St. Augustine Amphitheatre — Tickets $41.80-$88 — Experience a night filled with hip-hop vibes as Cypress Hill and Atmosphere take the stage.
Will Moseley Live Concert
6-7:30 p.m. — Colonial Oak Music Park — Tickets $28.41 — Experience the authentic sound of Southern country artist Will Moseley, known for his powerful vocals and small-town charm.
34th Annual Concerts in the Plaza: Bad Dog Mama
6-8 p.m. — Plaza de la Constitución — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of blues, pop/rock, and Americana at this lively concert in St. Augustine's historic plaza.
Morrow Family Band Live Performance
5-8 p.m. — Guy Harvey Resort St. Augustine Beach — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of local tunes with the Morrow Family Band at the beach.
Zach Deputy Live Performance
6-10 p.m. — Colonial Oak Music Park — $28.41 — Experience a soulful fusion of rhythm and innovation with Zach Deputy's live looping and synth guitar work.
The Red Clay Strays Live Concert
7-8:30 p.m. — The St. Augustine Amphitheatre — Tickets sold out — Experience the vibrant sounds of The Red Clay Strays at a popular local venue.
19th Annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser
7 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Slammer & Squire Golf Course — Fundraiser entry fee — Swing for a cause and enjoy a day of fun and friendly competition.
Caamp Concert at The St. Augustine Amphitheatre
6:30-9:30 p.m. — The St. Augustine Amphitheatre — Tickets from $38 — Experience a night of storytelling and melodies with folk band Caamp as they share their hits.
Randall Bramblett Live Performance
8-10 p.m. — Café Eleven Restaurant & Catering — Tickets $25-$40 — Enjoy an evening of live music at this local favorite spot in St. Augustine.
🏠 St. Augustine Real Estate
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💼 St. Augustine Job Board
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📣 St. Augustine Announcements
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