Mary K. Herron, Director of Development at the Florida Agricultural Museum, reported to Historic City News that Derek Hankerson, a local historian and educator, will be discussing the role of black soldiers during the Civil War.

Northeast Florida Regional Airport at St. Augustine announced to Historic City News that local residents and airport users can expect increased flight activity, from now through the end of April, as “aerobatic pilots” prepare for the 2011 Air Show Season.

St. Johns County Cultural Council, the county’s designated local arts agency, periodically reports upcoming cultural events to local Historic City News reporters for the benefit of our readers.

Historic City News has learned that the 17th season of St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights will be extended for one additional weekend, meaning the last night to see the lights this year will be Sunday, February 6th.

The NWS has issued a Tornado Watch for Flagler and St Johns counties effective until 9:00pm tonight.

First America Foundation, the private, non-profit foundation designated by the city to manage the upcoming commemorations, will hold a news conference tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. at the Historic Society’s Llambias House.

The local Sea Oats chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society reported to the news desk at Historic City News that their February meeting will include a program entitled “An update on new pests in our landscapes”.

Historic City News has learned that the month of February has been designated for the St. Johns Reads community reading project; and, this year activities will focus on The Art of Racing in the Rain — a novel by Garth Stein.