In partnership with

I’m James and this is the Old City Lowdown - wrangling up today's stories like a $10 cowboy with a lot to prove.

My most sincere apologies for the late newsletter today as we worked through some technical challenges.

With that said, starting next week, the Lowdown will be delivered to your inbox on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The goal is to make the newsletter more digestible while keeping you more in the loop on what’s happening in town.

In today’s edition:

Now, let’s get to the Lowdown.

-James Foote
Publisher | Old City Lowdown

Want to get your business in the Old City Lowdown? Let’s talk.

Looking for the perfect home loan? Motto Mortgage Invictus, locally owned and operated by Navy veteran Jaren Woeppel, offers personalized service with national reach. We secure competitive rates and provide expert guidance in St. Augustine.

Ready to start your home-buying journey? Thinking about lowering payments with a refinance? Contact Jaren today at 904-409-3046 or visit mottomortgageinvictus.com for a personalized, no-obligation consultation.

Tue • 87 🌡 78 | ⛅ | 💧24% | 🍃 E 10mph

Wed • 87 🌡 77 | ☀ | 💧24% | 🍃 E 11mph

Thu • 88 🌡 77 | ☀ | 💧20% | 🍃 ESE 12mph

Florida Department of Environmental Protection postpones public meetings. Post courtesy of the Florida Wildlife Federation.

Tag or mention @OldCityLowdown in your Instagram photos to be featured in the newsletter.

Local News that Actually Matters

🚨 DEP Public Meetings Postponed

Well, folks, it looks like we’ve been heard. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has postponed today’s public meetings, with a new date to be announced next week. The public outcry over the DEP’s proposed UPM amendment to nine Florida State Parks, including Anastasia State Park—which included plans for a 350-room lodge, pickleball courts, and a disc golf course—made quite an impact last week, putting the state on the defensive. With any luck, and if we continue to speak out, the DEP and the Governor’s Office might reconsider the 2024-25 Great Outdoors Initiative.

Stay tuned for the new date and time for these mandatory public meetings.

🪧 St. Johns County comes together for Anastasia

If you drove down A1A on the Island Sunday morning, you probably saw the hundreds (and hundreds) of residents who came out to protest the proposed development at Anastasia State Park. It's been a long time since we've seen something with such overwhelming support, and I have to say, it's a breath of fresh air. A huge thank you to everyone who showed up to voice their opposition and make our community's stance clear. Keep fighting the good fight!

🏖 St. Augustine Beach Renourishment nears completion

The St. Augustine Beach renourishment project is now in its final weeks of sand placement. The work has progressed into Anastasia State Park and is expected to continue until around September 1. Once the beach fill operations are finished, the contractor will begin removing equipment from the Pope Road staging and access area, a process that usually takes 1-2 weeks.

Local Business News

🍽️ Uptown’s Juniper Market adding second location in Hastings

Uptown favorite and home of the Black Magic Coffee (which I enjoy three times a week), Juniper Market, is set to expand with a second location opening next year in Hastings. Jenn Ashton, who has successfully run Juniper Market in St. Augustine for a decade, is thrilled to be expanding her brand with a new location in west St. Johns County. The new store will be over 3,000 square feet, offering more space to showcase Juniper’s signature sandwiches, salads, and specialty items. With plans to open in about 12 months, Ashton is excited to be part of Hastings’ revitalization and looks forward to bringing something fresh and vibrant to the community. Way to go, Jenn!

Be sure to pay Juniper Market a visit at 48 San Marco Ave. Read Jenn’s interview with Jacksonville Business Journal here.

What the cool kids are up to

Tuesday, August 27

🍸 Misguided Cocktail Competition at Asadolife | 5-7PM

Watch Tom Cruise flip bottles like it’s 1988! Actually, no - Tom won’t be there. But you’re invited to stop by Asadolife for a Tiki throwdown with Misguided Spirits to watch local bartenders battle it out! Small bites & cocktails available. Asadolife is located at 173 Shipyard Way. (more info)

Wednesday, August 28

🛍 Wednesday Farmers Market at SJC Ocean Pier | 8AM-12PM

Over 40 vendors offering fresh produce, seafood, local honey, local art, jewelry, and much, much more. The pet friendly farmers market is open every Wednesday from 8AM-12PM (summer hours). the St. Johns County Ocean Pier is located at 350 A1A Beach Blvd. on the Island.

🎸 Music & Art by the Sea at SJC Ocean Pier | 7-9PM

Enjoy free live music from 7-9PM alongside local art displays and delicious food trucks. Bring your beach chairs and coolers for a fun evening by the ocean! Coolers and chairs are permitted! Parking is limited, but a free shuttle is available from St. Augustine Beach City Hall and Ron Parker Park. More info at freebeachconcerts.com.

Thursday, August 29

🥳 Uptown Block Party | 5-9PM

Get down at the Uptown Block Party on the last Thursday of every month from 5-9PM. Many shops along San Marco Avenue stay open late, offering unique items, food, and drinks. You can also enjoy karaoke at Spinster Abbott's, located at 61 San Marco. Admission is free, so come shop, eat, and enjoy the vibrant Uptown atmosphere! (more info)

🎻 Concerts in the Plaza | 6-8PM

The free concert series takes a break until September 19, so don’t miss out on the Thick & Thin String Band Thursday night. This free series features local and regional musicians every Thursday at the Plaza de la Constitución gazebo.

We’d love to hear what you like about the Lowdown!

What’s going down at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre

Charley Crockett, aka The Man from Waco, delivered an incredible performance last night at The Amp, featuring a setlist that showcased his journey from street performer to superstar. Few can match Charley's showmanship, and it was truly an unforgettable experience.

📆 Next Five Shows:

When & where to catch live tunes

Tuesday, August 27

Wednesday, August 28

Thursday, August 29

_{*Artists & times are subject to change. We do our best to provide you with the most up-to-date information.}

🏈 Local High Schools go undefeated in Week 1

Congratulations to St. Augustine High School (42-6 win at Palatka), Pedro Menendez High School (34-0 win against Sandalwood), and Tocoi Creek High School (21-10 win over First Coast) for each kicking off the 2024 high school football season with a 1-0 record!

This Friday, Menendez will face off against St. Augustine in the cross-town rivalry, while Tocoi Creek hosts Westside (Jacksonville) at home. Both games start at 7 PM.

👋 Thanks for reading! If you found it useful, consider sharing it with a someone who voted on Tuesday.

📱 Keep up with the Lowdown on Instagram. Send comments & suggestions to [email protected].

🖼 Get your business in the Old City Lowdown. Let’s talk about how we can help you earn more customers.

Want to get your business in the Old City Lowdown? Let’s talk.

Did I miss something? Let me know at [email protected].