The Civic Association is pleased to announce two new businesses as Participating Merchants offering discounts to our members who show their cards. Corrie Duffy owner of Contours Express at the Riverside Center 292 SR 312 is offering 10% off monthly fee and 50% off enrollment. Lisa Holstein is joining Paul’s Salon at 3400 US1 S. and is offering 10% off services. She specializes in curly hair offering color and retexturizing services as well as nail services. (904) 315- 1401. We hope our members will patronize these establishments as well as all the other Participating Merchants.  Don’t forget to check our web site. To find the list of Participating Merchants go to the Membership space and click on, scroll down to see the list of merchants.
            The New Year is here. We just want to remind everyone that you will need to renew your membership cards for 2008. The 2008 cards are in and ready to be mailed out to you.  Membership to the Civic Association is open to all residents and is only $5 for individuals and $10 for families. For more information and membership forms check our website www.staugbchcivicassoc.com.
            When this column comes out just a last minute reminder before the 1st of January. The 2nd Annual Chili Cook Off will take place on December 31 at the Pier Park Pavilion sponsored by the South Beach Council of the Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber has graciously asked me to be one of the celebrity judges. This fundraiser is to support the newly opened Splash Park. I look forward to seeing everyone there. After dark a fantastic Fireworks Display will take place from the Pier. This is a great way to start New Year’s Eve celebrations. It’s early enough for the kids to enjoy and still let mom and dad go out later.
            In other news, the Friends of A1A Scenic Highway has received five (5) new grants for a total of $569,000. Funds will go towards the Welcome Center, Northern Gateway, Scenic Overlook at Pope Road, Bings Landing and Flagler Pier. Ideas are still being gathered for good locations to plant wild flowers along the Scenic Highway. If you have an idea for planting you can contact the Civic Association and or Friends of A1A at 425-8055.
            There’s plenty of free parking for shopping and dining out at the beach. The Wednesday and Saturday Farmers Arts & Crafts Markets offer a great variety of items. All American made! St. Augustine Beach doesn’t have a parking deck to pay off.
            Of course the Farmer’s Arts & Crafts Market will be open every Wednesday morning including the Wednesday after New Year’s Day. Come check us out and support the your St. Augustine Beach Civic Association. For more information call 347-8007 or contact us on the web at www.staugbchcivicassoc.com.