Good morning, St. Augustine.

Ed Slavin's Thanksgiving guest column reflects on St. Augustine's rich past—recalling historic struggles for civil rights and celebrating early multicultural celebrations—and points to current challenges like over-development, traffic, and climate change while urging stronger preservation efforts. He emphasizes the need for greater historic interpretation and policy support to protect the city's legacy.

Gov. Ron DeSantis announced a plan to regulate dog breeders and pet stores—measures include ethical standards for breeders, licensing requirements by DBPR, a hotline for abuse reports, and a rule for pet stores to showcase local shelter dogs in the 2026 session.

A Homes.com report showed median home prices in Northeast Florida dropped 4.3% in October—about $16,250 lower than the previous year—giving buyers more room to negotiate for price cuts and repair help.

Local realtors noted that rising inventory and seasonal declines have shifted the market to a more buyer-friendly trend.

The Florida Gators will play the Florida State Seminoles at 4:30 p.m. Saturday in Tallahassee for their 69th meeting, with Florida leading the all-time series 38—28—2 and FSU able to earn bowl eligibility with a win.

Additionally, Miami will play at Pitt at noon to remain in the College Football Playoff conversation and UCF will face BYU at 1 p.m. to become bowl eligible.

Shut Up & Run 5K

8-10:30 a.m. — Treaty Park — $35 — Celebrate Thanksgiving morning with a community-run fundraising event benefiting local charities.

Toronzo Cannon Live Performance

8-10 p.m. — Café Eleven Restaurant & Catering — Check venue for ticket info — Enjoy a live performance by Toronzo Cannon in a lively beachside atmosphere.

St. Augustine Amateur Golf Event

7:00 – 8:30 a.m. — St. Johns Golf Club — Participate in friendly competition with fellow golf enthusiasts.

Mistletoe Market 2025

8 PM – 12 AM — David Weekley Model Home — Free entry — Celebrate the season with local food trucks, vendors, and exciting prizes in a festive atmosphere.

Dream Big! Foundation Golf Tournament

10 a.m. – 6 p.m. — St. Johns Golf & Country Club — Registration fee includes golf and lunch — Tee off for a great cause supporting families in need during cancer treatment.

Coyote Island Concert

6-10 p.m. — Colonial Oak Music Park — $28.41 — Experience a vibrant blend of folk, reggae, and psychedelia by Maine's Coyote Island.

Ax and the Hatchetmen Live Concert

6-7:30 p.m. — Colonial Oak Music Park — Tickets available via UNATION — Experience the energetic performance of Ax and the Hatchetmen in a charming outdoor venue.

Family Seining Adventure

9-11 a.m. — Guana River Dam — $3 vehicle parking — Experience hands-on learning as you catch and discover local aquatic life at Guana Lake.

St. Augustine Bird Expo

9 AM – 3 PM — Renaissance World Golf Village Convention Center — Entry fee likely required — Discover a wide array of supplies, birds, and fun for bird enthusiasts.

Performances of The Nutcracker

2-5 p.m. — Lewis Auditorium, Flagler College — $35.00-$50.00 — Experience the holiday classic with local dancers and guest artists in a festive performance.