The City of St Augustine Beach has invited all Historic City News readers to kick-off 2019 in seaside style at this year’s special “Beach Blast Off” event; voted the No. 1 Family New Year’s Event in Florida.

Free admission, free satellite parking, and free transportation shuttles. You’ll have a blast with numerous food and beverage options, live music, a Kids’ Zone, a beer and wine tent benefitting the Vietnam Veterans of America, and a spectacular firework show.

The 74th annual TaxSlayer Gator Bowl New Year’s Eve matchup between NC State and Texas A&M takes place Monday at 7:30 p.m. at TIAA Bank Field with many activities for Historic City News readers leading up to and following the game.

For more information on the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl and other events, visit www.taxslayergatorbowl.com

Community First Cares Foundation, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit philanthropic arm of Community First Credit Union, announced to local Historic City News reporters in St Johns County that they have awarded the inaugural “Champions for Children” classroom innovation grants in conjunction with Investing in Kids (INK!). Ten grants that support classroom innovation not funded through traditional budgets, were awarded to the winning St. Johns County teachers in November.

Friday, the Florida Department of Education announced to Historic City News reporters the names of schools in St Johns County that have earned the “Five Star School Award” for the 2017-2018 school year. The award is bestowed upon schools that are committed to incorporating family and community members into the school environment to enhance student learning. Statewide, over 700 schools earned the recognition.

The Flagler County Sheriff’s Motor Unit reported to Historic City News that midway through the holiday weekend, they are continuing to conduct traffic enforcement operations at high crash locations to deter speeding and running red lights.