Red tide (almost) spoils the fun at local beaches

Local surfers have been red-eyed and coughing, which wouldn’t necessarily be news, except that these symptoms were caused by a red tide that hung around almost entirely through October.

It began on Sept. 27, when the tide rounded the tip of Florida on the Gulf Stream and headed our way, according to a Fish and Wildlife Research Institute spokesman.

[ November 23, 2007; 12:00 am; ] Winter Wonderland at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre filled with a 50 x 70 Ice rink, snow nights at 9 p.m., sleigh rides, 2 fire pits for s’mores, Holiday shopping areas, 6×10 Elf house, lighted nature trails, Santa, and children’s storybook readings. Most events are free; $8 to skate, $2 to rent skates. staugamphitheatre.com.

[ November 17, 2007; 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. ] 14th Annual Nights of Lights Celebration kicks off at 6:30 p.m. downtown. The Nights of Lights Celebration continues until Jan. 31 with different events planned over this time. nightsoflights.com.

[ November 4, 2007; 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm. ] The 23rd Annual Great Chowder Debate, presented by the St. Augustine Shrine Club and The Conch House Marina Resort. Find your favorite chowder in St. Augustine as you sample the varieties offered this year. Event starts at 12:30 p.m. at The Conch House. Proceeds to benefit the Shriner’s Hospital for Children.

[ November 14, 2007; 7:00 pm; ] The 2nd Annual Big Trunk Show at Café 11, featuring 20 local designers showing clothing, jewelry and more. $2 glasses of wine and music by DJ Justin Krol. More info at cafe11.com.

Scored a sweet tee at a thrift shop that just happened to be five sizes too big? We can help you make it fit. Promise.

First, a disclaimer: This is the slacker way to sew. You could go to a tailor, but that costs money you probably don’t have if you’re scrounging through thrift stores. Kristin Adamczyk is the creator of the Honeywell clothing line. Maybe you bought some of her stuff. Maybe you think her designs are lame. Either way, she’s bestowing upon us some sewing knowledge.