PALM COAST, Fla. – The Flagler County Cultural Council’s annual Fall Arts Festival transformed Central Park in Town Center, Palm Coast into a vibrant celebration of creativity on Saturday. Under perfect autumn skies, hundreds of residents and visitors came out to enjoy a day filled with local art, live music, family-friendly crafts, and community spirit.
The park’s lakeside path was lined with artists, makers, and vendors showcasing everything from Driftwood and Decor and handcrafted jewelry and fine art by Pat Block to photography by local favorite Christophe.com. Families stopped at the kids’ tent where children painted free turtle piggy banks and created Thanksgiving-themed turkey crafts, a highlight for many parents and grandparents.
The live music lineup kept energy high throughout the day, beginning with the Community Band of Palm Coast, followed by a Planet e Studios youth cover group, Rūju, that brought back nostalgic hits from the ’90s and 2000s. Closing out the afternoon, a band made up of local music teachers, Friday Morning Jam Club, rocked the stage—proving educators can command the spotlight, too.
Visitors browsed dozens of vendor booths offering holiday décor, artisan gifts, and specialty items for pets, while local nonprofits and cultural groups added to the community connection. Exhibitors included the African American Cultural Society, the Hispanic American Cultural Society, the Palm Coast Historical Society, and other organizations representing Flagler County’s diverse cultural scene.
Hosted in partnership with the City of Palm Coast, the festival continues to grow as one of the area’s most beloved arts and culture events, attracting thousands of attendees each fall.
Festival Chair Nancy Crouch said she was thrilled by both the turnout and the enthusiasm from artists and guests.
“It was another successful festival day,” Crouch said. “Thank you to all the vendors and patrons who came out to support our local artists. We appreciate you—come back in the spring!”
By three o’clock the final notes of live music echoed across the lake, closing out a perfect day that celebrated everything Flagler County’s arts community stands for—creativity, connection, and community pride.
Denise Garcia and Debra Griffith District IV Director.
Palm Coast, FL – The Garden Club at Palm Coast proudly celebrated its 50th Anniversary while hosting the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs (FFGC) District VI Fall Meeting on October 24 at the elegant Hammock Dunes Club. The milestone event brought together a full complement of members from across the district for a day of fellowship, learning, and celebration of Florida’s gardening community.
The morning began with registration, hospitality, and boutique shopping, where guests mingled and browsed unique garden-inspired gifts from local vendors. The scenic coastal venue set the tone for a day filled with camaraderie and inspiration.
The Garden Club at Palm Coast President Denise Garcia and Debra Griffith District IV Director.
District VI Director Debra Griffith presided over the meeting, guiding a full agenda that highlighted club achievements and initiatives from across the district. The event provided an opportunity for each participating garden club to share updates on their projects, from community beautification efforts to youth engagement and conservation programs.
Garden Club at Palm Coast President Denise Garcia was recognized for the club’s 50th anniversary milestone, honoring five decades of service, education, and environmental stewardship in the Palm Coast community.
Representing the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs.
Months of work came down to the last few days as The Garden Club at Palm Coast put the finishing touches on the event.
“We had a very special day here at the Hammock Dunes Country Club,” said Garcia. “I am so proud of the team. They all came together as a community effort.”
FFGC President Christy Linke, along with officers Mary Whisler, Maria Wolfe, and Leticia Gunn, expressed their appreciation for the hospitality and enthusiasm shown by the hosting clubs. “We felt the love these past three weeks and were so thrilled to see all the lovely Garden Club members from across our beautiful state,” Linke shared.
Palm Coast Urban Forester Carol Mini, (left) is joined by retired Flagler County Commissioner George Hanns and Flagler County Commissioner Pam Richardson.
Local dignitaries attended the meeting and luncheon including Flagler County Commissioner Pam Richardson.
“What a beautiful celebration of the Palm Coast Garden Club’s 50th anniversary, said Richardson.
“President Denise Garcia transformed the Hammock Dunes ballroom into a botanical wonderland as members and dignitaries from across the region gathered to share gardening inspiration and friendship. We enjoyed a delightful meal in the sunlit, oceanfront venue, browsed holiday gifts from local vendors, and learned about the club’s youth summer camp scholarships that foster a love of nature. Here’s to the next 50 years of growth and blooming success,” she said.
The event concluded with lunch overlooking the ocean—an elegant and fitting tribute to both the legacy and the continued growth of The Garden Club at Palm Coast, as it blossoms into its next fifty years of community impact and friendship.
Flagler County Commissioner Greg Hansen and wife Linda Hansen attend the luncheon.
“The nice thing about garden club is we have a convention every year. So, you’ve got friends you might only see once a year. You might see those friends when another club does the district party so that’s one of the fun parts about it, getting to see people you’ve known for years.”
The Florida Federation of Garden Clubs will hold their 2026 Convention & State Flower Show on April 14-17, 2026 at the Embassy Suites, Lake Buena Vista, Florida. Visit www.ffgc.org for details.
Jane Villa Lobos and Dr. John Rossi attend the luncheon.Capturing 50 years of history.
FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. – Women United Flagler awarded $11,000 in community grants to local nonprofits serving Flagler County during its annual Meet & Greet held on Wednesday, November 5. The free event, open to women interested in learning more about Women United Flagler, took place at The Shape of Water Restaurant, 5047 N. Ocean Shore Drive in Palm Coast.
“This was an opportunity for our community to experience the impact of Women United Flagler’s initiatives and to meet others who share a passion for supporting our efforts to help Flagler County residents in need, especially the ALICE population,” said Haylie Allegra, Sr. Director of Business Development at Florida Blue and Social Chairperson for Women United Flagler.
Awardees attend the annual meet and greet. Flagler News Weekly
Grant recipients included Vincent’s Clubhouse, Christmas Come True, Teens-In-Flight, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation’s Pink Army, and Flagler County Education Foundation. Each organization received funding to support programs that make a tangible difference in the lives of local residents.
In a touching show of partnership, the Pink Army also made a donation to the Women United Flagler Chapter during the evening’s event in the amount of $1,755, raised as part of the annual Pink Army 5K. The contribution underscored the spirit of collaboration and shared purpose among local organizations committed to helping Flagler County residents in need.
AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation Pink Army donates back to the Women United Flagler. Flagler News Weekly
The evening was also a bittersweet one for Sheila Pillath, Vice President of Development for the Community Foundation of the United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties, who recently announced her retirement. Pillath shared that while she looks forward to spending more time with her aging mother and new granddaughter, she plans to remain engaged with Women United.
Sheila Pillath (right) is joined by members of Vincent’s Clubhouse.
“Women United Flagler are our eyes and ears in the Flagler community because they are so well-connected to the nonprofits because they have such a caring heart. They are the ones saying to be mindful of the smaller nonprofits and are our connection to the smaller nonprofits to make sure they have the resources they need to serve the community,” shared Pillath.
“It is so incredible to see these ladies come tighter and through their caring hearts take care of the community, and that’s what Women United has been about since it’s inception,” she said.
“I admit I am having a lot of FOMO. There are so many seeds that have been planted and to not be here as a staff person to see all of these things bloom, I admit is tough. But I’m still in the community and I’ll still see things come to fruition.”
Linda Mahran.
Adding to the evening’s charm, The Shape of Water Restaurant—known for its enchanting atmosphere featuring man-made waterfalls, caves, and a whimsical fairy garden—generously donated the use of its venue for the celebration.
“We were grateful to The Shape of Water Restaurant for donating their magical space to help us celebrate and shine a light on these nonprofits and the vital work they do for those in need throughout our community,” Allegra added.
Women United Flagler, an affiliate of the United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties, continues to empower women through philanthropy, volunteerism, and leadership, strengthening the community one act of kindness at a time.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.,– The Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida invited students to participate in the 2025 Native American Heritage Month student art and essay contests with the theme “Celebrating Florida’s Native American Heritage.” Native American Heritage Month is recognized and celebrated in the United States during the month of November.
“We are proud to offer students opportunities to learn from and honor the Native Americans who have shaped Florida’s story,” said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. “I encourage every student to learn about our Native American history and discover the remarkable achievements they made.”
“I am honored to recognize the rich culture and heritage of Native Americans, whose contributions greatly enhance the fabric of our nation,” said Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo. “As we observe Native American Heritage Month, we celebrate the impact and legacy of Native American communities here in Florida and beyond.”
All Florida students are invited to participate in academic and creative contests based on this year’s theme. Students in grades K-3 are invited to participate in an art contest, while students in grades 4-12 are invited to participate in an essay contest. Additionally, students, parents, teachers and principals are invited to nominate full-time educators of all student grades for the Native American Heritage Month Excellence in Education Award.
About the Student Art Contest
The Native American Heritage Month art contest is open to all Kindergarten through third-grade students in Florida. Each student should submit one original, two-dimensional artwork based on this year’s theme. Four statewide winners will be selected, and each winner will receive a $200 gift card for school supplies and a 1-year pass to Florida State Parks.
About the Student Essay Contest
The Native American Heritage Month essay contest is open to all students attending any Florida school in grades 4-12. Six winners will be selected: two elementary school students (grades 4-5), two middle school students (grades 6-8), and two high school students (grades 9-12). Each winner will receive a 2-year Florida College Plan scholarship provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and a $200 gift card for school supplies.
Contestants must be Florida residents, attend school in Florida in grades 4-12 (including public, charter, private, home or virtual) and able to provide a Social Security Number. Each student may enter only one essay, written in English, no longer than 500 words.
There are many examples throughout our state’s history of Native Americans and their contributions to Florida’s success. Using your own words, write about a Native American who has had an impactful effect whose story should be shared. The subject of the essay should be a Floridian.
Some examples are:
Betty Mae Tiger Jumper – First woman elected as Chair of the Seminole Tribe of Florida
Florida’s Timucuan Pocahontas, Ulele
Osceola – An outspoken advocate for Seminole rights in the 1800s
Noah Billie – An acclaimed Seminole painter
About the Excellence in Education Award
Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Native American Heritage Month Excellence in Education Award Contest is open to all full-time educators in an elementary, middle, or high school in Florida. Four winners will be selected, and nominations may be submitted by a principal, teacher, parent/guardian, or student. Excellence in Education award winners will receive $2,500 from the Volunteer Florida Foundation.
Contest Entries and Nominating Forms and Guidelines
Student contest forms and educator nomination forms must be mailed to Volunteer Florida or submitted online at www.floridanativeamericanheritage.com.
Volunteer Florida
Native American Heritage Month Committee
1545 Raymond Diehl Road, Suite 250
Tallahassee, Florida 32308
All entries must be received by 5:00 pm Eastern Time on Friday, November 21, 2025.
November 7, 2025 – The Sheltering Tree is opening next week because of cold overnight temperatures that will fall below 40 degrees on Monday (November 10). The shelter, operated at the Rock Transformation Center, (formerly Church on the Rock) is not only for those experiencing homelessness, but for anyone who is without heat.
The National Weather Service is predicting temperatures to fall below 40 degrees during the overnight hours on Monday, which is the criteria for opening the cold-weather shelter.
The county will provide bus transportation along two routes, following the schedules below:
East side of the county
Dollar General at Publix Town Center on Market Avenue (leads to Dollar General), 3:30 p.m.
McDonald’s at Old Kings Road South and State Road 100 at the dirt road on the east side, 4 p.m.
Dollar Tree behind Carrabba’s in the Dollar Tree Parking lot, 4:30 p.m.
Palm Coast Main Branch Library, northwest corner of Palm Coast Parkway and Belle Terre Parkway, 4:45 p.m.
West side of the county
Dollar General at County Road 305 and Canal Avenue in Daytona North, 4 p.m.
Bridges United Methodist Church in Bunnell, 205 N. Pine Street, 4:30 p.m. (listed as the same pick-up time because of the close proximity)
The Rock Transformation Center is located at 2200 N. State Street. The cold-weather shelter will open at 5 p.m. and will close at 8 a.m. the following day.
The Sheltering Tree, 386-437-3258, is under the umbrella of the Flagler County Family Assistance Center and is a non-denominational civic organization that was created to provide cold weather sheltering during cold nights in Flagler County.
Weather and heat safety preparedness tips from Flagler County Fire Rescue include:
Never use the oven to heat the home
All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning
Screen fireplaces to contain sparks
Portable space heaters should be kept 3-feet away from anything that can burn
Turn off portable heaters when leaving the room or going to bed
November 7, 2025 — As the Federal Government shutdown continues to delay Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, Flagler County is stepping up to ensure no one in the community goes hungry.
Earlier today, Flagler Broadcasting’s 4th Annual Food-A-Thon raised over $80,000 during a four-hour live radio broadcast — a powerful show of local generosity in a time of need. The Food-A-Thon, which supports the Grace Community Food Pantry, aims to reach a $100,000 goal to help feed local families.
Hosted by Flagler Broadcasting President & CEO David Ayres and VP of Sales and Events Kirk Keller, the event aired across all four local stations — WNZF, Beach 92.7, KOOL 100.9, and KIX Country 98.7 — and drew participation from more than 100 local businesses, residents, charities, and officials throughout the day.
Notable contributions included Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly’s $5,000 donation, humorously “courtesy of local drug dealers residing at the Green Roof Inn.” The United Way of Volusia-Flagler presented a $6,000 check, and Palm Coast Mayor Mike Norris offered a personal $3,000 contribution.
Kirk Keller talks with Courtney Edgcomb, CEO of the Community Foundation United Way Volusia-Flagler Counties about their $6,000 donation.
Flagler County employees and commissioners also “passed the hat,” collecting $3,610 for the cause.
“We didn’t quite make our goal… YET,” said Grace Community Food Pantry Coordinator Dottie Colletta, who expressed optimism that the community’s continued generosity would help reach the $100,000 target.
Meanwhile, recognizing the broader food insecurity crisis caused by the SNAP benefit freeze, Flagler County Administrator Heidi Petito approved an emergency allocation of $50,000 from the county’s pooled expenditures budget to bolster local food bank operations. The action, taken under the Administrator’s authority to commit up to $100,000 without prior Board approval, will be presented for reimbursement from general fund reserves at the November 17 Board of County Commissioners meeting.
Host David Ayres talks with Flagler County Commission Chairman Andy Dance, Palm Coast Songwriters Festival’s Garry Lubi, and Observer’s Brian McMillan.
According to the Flagler County Department of Health, approximately 11,447 residents — or 7.4% of all households — rely on SNAP benefits. With those benefits temporarily suspended, the county’s funding ensures immediate access to food assistance for vulnerable residents.
“One of the core priorities of our strategic plan is public health and safety,” said County Administrator Petito. “This emergency response reflects Flagler County’s compassion and commitment to helping our neighbors in need. I’m proud of our team’s generosity and proud to stand behind this funding decision.”
Flagler County officials emphasized that they will continue to monitor the situation and are prepared to take further steps to protect residents’ well-being.
Why it matters:
SNAP delays mean some families may have to skip meals or turn to food banks for the first time.
Local food banks are stretched thin and need immediate support to meet demand.
This emergency funding ensures that help is available right now — not weeks from now.
Community members can still support the effort by donating to the Grace Community Food Pantry at www.GraceCommunityFoodPantry.org or by contacting Dottie Colletta directly at 386-931-7085.
Host Kirk Keller talks with Pastor Charles Silano, Flagler County Education Foundation’s Teresa Rizzo and Flagler Home Builders Association’s Annamaria Long.
Palm Coast – Just like Thanksgiving leftovers, great deals don’t last long — and the early-bird registration for the 2025 Feet to Feast 5k is about to disappear. Residents have until Monday, November 10 to secure the discounted race rate before prices increase.
The annual Feet to Feast 5K, sponsored by AdventHealth Palm Coast, takes place on Thursday, November 27 at 7:45 a.m. at the Daytona State College Flagler/Palm Coast campus. This family-friendly run/walk has become a cherished Palm Coast tradition, offering a festive start to the holiday and a scenic route along the St. Joe Walkway. Whether you’re racing for a personal best or simply earning your Thanksgiving feast, it’s one of the community’s favorite ways to kick off the day.
Early-bird registration is $30 for adults through November 10. Beginning November 11, the price increases to $35. Student registration (K–12) remains $20. Participants are encouraged to sign up in advance and get early packet pick-up to secure their race shirt and avoid delays on race morning.
Packet pickup will be available at the Palm Coast Community Center November 21–25, with race-day pickup also offered (shirts not guaranteed for late registrants or pick-up).
To take advantage of the early-bird rate before it’s gone, visit ParksAndRec.fun to register.
Start your Thanksgiving with energy, excitement, and community spirit — and grab that discount while you can. After all, there’s nothing more satisfying than crossing a finish line…and scoring a deal.
BUNNELL, Fla. – What could have easily been a retirement party celebrated something far greater: the continued service of Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly.
Gathered at the Flagler County Sheriff’s Operations Center on Tuesday, friends, colleagues, and community leaders came together to honor Sheriff Staly’s 50 years in law enforcement—a milestone marked by courage, integrity, and unwavering dedication.
An Early Start, a Near Early End
Staly’s passion for law enforcement began early, as a police explorer inspired to protect and serve. That commitment was tested at just 23 years old when he nearly lost his life in the line of duty—an event that could have ended his story far too soon.
It was Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, one of Florida’s most respected lawmen, who recounted the harrowing incident that nearly claimed Staly’s life. The retelling reminded those in attendance how close the community came to never knowing the man who would later define Flagler County law enforcement.
Parkview Church Pastor Greg Peters with Sheriff Rick Staly and Debbie Staly.. Flagler News Weekly
“There’s always people behind us who have to face the thought of what can happen,” said U.S. Congressman Randy Fine. “Particularly when you’re in a career where there is personal risk and personal safety, there’s always something bad that could happen to you. So, while this is not only a recognition of Sheriff Staly for 50 years of service, it is also a recognition of Debbie for being willing to be there as he’s put himself in harm’s way for all of us.”
Setting the Bar
Throughout his career, Staly has been a model of professionalism and a mentor to others in law enforcement. Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook shared both humor and heartfelt admiration for the future president of the Florida Sheriffs Association.
“I figured using my Clay County math, I was in kindergarten when Sheriff Staly started his career,” she joked. “And I’m looking at all these agencies and thinking, man, this dude can’t keep a job.”
Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook shares heartfelt words about Flagler Sheriff Rick Staly. Flagler News Weekly
Her tone quickly shifted to sincere respect. “These characteristics are what make him so respected and admired within our Florida Sheriffs Association,” said Cook, highlighting his faith-driven decision-making and steadfast values. “Finally, this is a man of integrity. This is a family of integrity. You know that Rick Staly is going to do the right thing even when it is really hard.”
Bunnell Police Chief David Brannon echoed those sentiments, recalling Staly’s lasting influence. “He was an instructor in a class I attended once as a sergeant coming up through Volusia County Sheriff’s Office. The long-term dedication he’s given to this profession, and his commitment to the safety of the communities that he’s served, I think is the legacy he leaves behind.”
A Legacy of Leadership
Among the many tributes, the words of Dr. Joe Saviak captured the essence of Staly’s enduring impact. “Sheriff Rick Staly has an incredible devotion to duty,” Saviak said. “He’s made a lot of sacrifices to serve—including being shot three times saving the life of a fellow deputy sheriff. He feels very passionate about committing his life and his leadership and all of his talents, energies, and efforts to ensuring that any community that he’s protecting and serving is receiving exemplary law enforcement service.”
“He’s a role model, a mentor, a coach, a good friend, and someone we can always look to for wise counsel and positive encouragement. He is the very definition of a leader.”
Flagler Sheriff’s Office Chief Mark Strobridge, Bedy Strobridge, Flagler Sheriff Rick Staly, Debbie Staly, Dr. Joe Saviak. Flagler News Weekly
Retired Division Chief David Williams reflected on how far the agency has come under Staly’s leadership. “Sheriff Staly has really brought this agency out of the dark ages into the modern ages,” said Williams. “Just watch that man work—to see someone who’s truly dedicated to the job, to see the results. Inspirational.”
A Ripple Effect
Deeply moved by the tributes including one by the Sons of the American Revolution, a key to the city presented by Palm Coast Vice Mayor Teresa Pontieri, and a proclamation presented by the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners, Sheriff Staly expressed gratitude and humility. The renaming of the Sheriff’s Operations Center in his honor, he said, was an incredible and humbling recognition.
Flagler County Commissioners Greg Hansen, Pam Richardson, and Chair Andy Dance join Flagler Sheriff Rick Staly to commemorate the moment. Flagler News Weekly
“This is an amazing recognition. I’m just very honored that the Board of County Commissioners did that, and the turnout of the community,” he said. “It’s heartwarming to know that people have said I had an impact on them. That’s what life should be about—having a positive impact on people.”
Looking Ahead
Though the day could have marked the end of a distinguished career, Sheriff Staly made it clear his work is far from done. He plans to run for office again in 2028—with the full support of his wife, Debbie—and joked that if retirement involves folding laundry, he might even run again in 2032.
A leadership book is also in the works, ensuring his insights and experience will continue to guide future generations.
As Congressman Randy Fine put it, “Rick has been an amazing mentor and friend as I got introduced to politics up here. His commitment and his service are extraordinary, and I hope he gets to serve for another 50 years.”
Sons of the American Revolution recognize Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly . Flagler News Weekly
Postscript: The surprise event was organized by Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Chief Mark Strobridge with the help of the dedicated men and women of the FCSO.
Well-deserved recognition. Flagler News WeeklyCherished by friends and colleagues alike. Flagler County Deputy Administrator Percy Sayles, Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly, Palm Coast Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill. Flagler News WeeklyU.S. Congressman Randy Fine. Flagler News WeeklyWalking into history. Flagler News WeeklyFlagler County Sheriff Rick Staly with Greg Davis. Flagler News WeeklyFlagler County Sheriff Rick Staly and his greatest supporter, wife Debbie Staly. Flagler News WeeklyFlagler County dignitaries attend the 50th anniversary ceremony. From left, Flagler County Commission Chairman Andy Dance, Commissioner Pam Richardson, Commissioner Greg Hanse, Deputy Property Appraiser Michelle Morgan, Tax Collector Shelly Edmonson, Property Appraiser Jay Gardner. Flagler News Weekly
BUNNELL, Fla. — Excitement was in the air Wednesday, November 5, as Flagler County Commissioners officially broke ground on the new Fairgrounds Expo Center, marking a major milestone for both community growth and public safety.
Organizations that regularly use Cattleman’s Hall are eagerly anticipating the expanded opportunities the new facility will bring.
“This is such an exciting event to watch this building come. I’ve been doing this for 30 years and we definitely need this. Not only for the shelter, for disaster preparedness, but on a whole, for the community. It expands what we are able to do here. This means a lot to us,” said Penny Buckles, President of the Flagler County Fair & Youth Show.
Flagler County Fair & Youth Show President Penny Buckles and Flagler Volunteer Services, Inc. Executive Director Suzy Gamblain attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the Flagler County Fairgrounds Expo Center. Flagler News Weekly
“I know this building is going to be really impactful for our local nonprofits that do special events because it’s going to be a space that’s big enough to have a large special event whether it’s a volunteer recognition event or a fundraiser. It will make a huge difference not just during bad weather but also during blue skies,” added Flagler Volunteer Services Executive Director Suzy Gamblain.
The Expo Center, located at the Flagler County Fairgrounds off Sawgrass Road, will provide a much-needed modern venue for events, gatherings, in addition to emergency response.
Flagler County Commission Vice Chair Leann Pennington shares the moment with colleagues and family. From left, Flagler County Commission Chair Andy Dance, Flagler County Fair & Youth Show President Penny Buckles, Flagler County Commission Vice Chair Leann Pennington, Flagler County Commissioner Greg Hansen, and Pennington’s son Clint. Flagler News Weekly
Vice Chair of the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners Leann Pennington, who has championed the project from its early stages, expressed her excitement about seeing the long-envisioned plan move forward.
“How amazing? I can’t even put it into words. This started as a small little conversation about the facilities we currently have for Cattlemen’s and it just developed into a project that benefits the entire community, not just the west side,” shared Pennington, grateful for the state funding provided to support the project that ensures additional space for special needs sheltering during disasters.
“This was my first project, I took it under my wing and we got the initial funding of $5 million and I was happy to have that. (We) obviously needed the full funding to complete it, so we, my son and I, drove back up to Tallahassee. We knocked doors not just of our leaders but appropriations chair, Senator Tom Leek. He really believed in the project and he promised he’d help us, and he did.”
Flagler County Emergency Management Director Jonathan Lord. Flagler News Weekly
“He had real compassion and understanding. I think he understood the vision of it. It’s a win for the state too. It fulfills an emergency management need for our county. I think it was all just perfect need, perfect place, perfect reason, and I think the community out here is going to utilize it a lot and love it,” she said.
The new, hurricane-hardened Expo Hall will be constructed to Category 5 standards and elevated above surrounding structures to mitigate flood risk. While its primary purpose will be as a community hub for fairs, festivals, and civic events, it will also serve as a stand-alone emergency shelter—a critical addition to Flagler County’s disaster readiness infrastructure.
Currently, the county depends on Flagler Schools to open shelters in their facilities during hurricanes or other emergencies. But as Emergency Management Director Jonathan Lord explained, a dedicated building provides vital flexibility.
“This is a multipurpose building, and it is my hope that emergency management and sheltering will be the least of its uses,” said Lord. “I’d be happy if we only had to test the facility instead of using it for a hurricane. The rest of the time, it can be enjoyed by the community for recreation, events, and activities—but one that’s built to hurricane standards.”
It takes a village. Flagler News Weekly.
The one-story, 10,000-square-foot main hall will include additional areas for storage, restrooms with showers, a kitchen, and a welcoming foyer. The facility’s power system will be fully backed by a diesel generator capable of supporting all HVAC, lighting, and kitchen equipment at full capacity. The site will also include protected HVAC systems and independent water and wastewater capabilities, ensuring continuous operation during severe storms.
Construction will begin this month and is expected to be completed by summer 2026.
As Flagler County continues to grow, the new Expo Center stands as a forward-thinking investment—one that blends community enrichment with resilience, offering residents a safe, adaptable, and enduring space for years to come.
