Child Abuse Prevention Month wraps up

St. Augustine Youth Services recounted for Historic City News that they presented three events in April in conjunction with National Child Abuse Prevention Month to bring this message to our community by encouraging parents to have the knowledge, skills and resources they need to care for their children.

Since 1989, people nationwide wear the blue ribbon (and now carry blue pinwheels) in April to create awareness of the need to keep kids safe and families strong. St. Augustine Youth Services is celebrating 25 years of serving children and one year in their new campus facility. SAYS is a group home which provides therapeutic services for boys who have experienced severe emotional trauma, such as child abuse and neglect. For more information, please call 904-829-1770.

Pinwheel Parade – April 5th

The “Pinwheel Parade” March against Child Abuse on April 5th was held at the SAYS campus from 10:00-11:30am. There was a ceremonial “parade” around the campus, free children’s activities including a bounce-house and face painting plus tables set up with parenting information and people on hand to answer questions about the resources available in St. Johns County. Executive Director Schuyler Siefker welcomed everyone to the event and County Commissioner Rachael Bennett presented a very inspiring address. The St. Johns County Sheriff Office gave the kids (and adults, too) a big surprise by landing its helicopter on the basketball courts. The kids got the opportunity to sit inside and check it out.

Helicopter Golf Ball Drop – April 12nd

St. Augustine Youth Services Dropped 1,000 Golf Balls from a Helicopter!
Imagine 1,000 numbered golf balls being dropped from a helicopter onto the replica 17th green at the World Golf Village! The SAYS Blue Ribbon Helicopter Golf Ball Drop and Putting Tournament was held on April 12. WSI Internet Marketing was the owner of the ball that went into the hole first and won the $1,500 cash prize. Tim and Erika Miller graciously donated back the prize money to SAYS. Alan Ressler played a fierce game on the 18-hole putting tournament and came in first. He also donated back his $500 winnings. Participants enjoyed the VIP Cocktail Reception on the balcony and music by the Red River Band

Arnold’s Annual Ride Against Child Abuse – April 27th

The Arnold’s Annual Ride Against Child Abuse was held on Sunday, April 27th at Arnold’s Cocktail Lounge, located at 3912 N. Ponce de Leon Blvd. Kickstands were up at 11am for the participating 109 motorcycles. The best 5-card stud hand won the jackpot. Stops included the Cheyenne Saloon in E. Palatka, the White Eagle Lounge in Bunnell, the AmVets on SR206 and then back to Arnold’s for a BBQ buffet, live music featuring Big Engine, a raffle and an auction.

Thanks to Bozard Ford for being the title sponsor and to putting sponsors Rulon, Re/Max 100 Realty, UBS, Ocean Grove RV Supercenter, Ameris Bank, Shaughnessy’s Sports Grill and to The PLAYERS for donating the golf balls. Also special thanks to the Red River Band and Old City Helicopters for a super event.