FLAGLER BEACH, Fla. – “This is paradise as far as I’m concerned,” said Bob Snyder, president of the Rotary Club of Flagler Beach.
“My wife and I have lived here for 28 years and we still pinch ourselves that we live in this residential beach community. We love the people, there are plenty of things to do, the beautiful Atlantic Ocean, the beautiful, expanded beach. It’s home,” he said with genuine happiness, as he watched residents stream down the stairs to the beach to form a gigantic 100 in front of the calm, turquoise waters of the Atlantic.
Those sentiments were echoed among residents gathered to kick off what promises to be a months-long birthday bash to remember as the City of Flagler Beach turns 100.
Flagler Beach City Commissioner Rick Belhumeur’s family has been in Flagler Beach since 1984, and when asked what’s changed, he paused before answering.
“So much (is) the same, except for the bridge. I guess that was kind of needed,” said Belhumeur.
Sharing a story from a resident in her 90’s Belhumeur smiled when recounting her story of the turnstile bridge that once connected the mainland to the barrier island.
“This is the true birthday party, but it’s just the beginning of the party,” he said, looking forward to the full calendar of activities planned to celebrate the city.
Protect What You Love
It’s a nod to the city’s leaders who are thoughtful about the changes the city undergoes that the city has managed to keep from becoming overdeveloped. Built on mom and pop businesses, it’s locals taking care of locals from the donut shop to the real estate agency to the radio station. There’s a small-town vibe that even after 100 years can’t be replicated and is guarded like a precious gem.
It’s what attracted Bob and Wanda Chapman to the area. After living in Jacksonville for 35 years and visiting Flagler Beach over the years, they made it their official home 4 years ago. Among those forming the 100 on the beach, they were happy to be part of the centennial celebrations.
“We’ve lived here for years so it only made sense that we come out for the centennial,” he said. “I’m waiting for the pictures to come out so we can see how we looked.”
“He came for the cake,” added Wanda.
While the city has changed some since they first started coming to Flagler Beach, the heart of it has remained the same.
“We’ve been coming here since nothing was here,” said Bob. “I think it’s not overpopularized. It provides a restful reprieve between Daytona and St. Augustine. If you just want some peace and quiet with beautiful scenery, come here.”
The kickoff ceremony continued with cake, emblazoned with the centennial logo and served with a smile by current mayor Patti King and past mayor Linda Provencher. Flagler Beach City Commission Chairman James Sherman thanked everyone from the residents to the business owners and first responders.
“100 years ago a small group of dreamers imagined a community by the sea built by sunshine, sand and the spirit of togetherness. They couldn’t know that their vision would grow into the vibrant, welcoming, and beautiful city we are proud to call home today,” said Sherman.
“As we step into the next 100 years, may we honor our history of continuing to protect what makes Flagler Beach so special, our natural beauty, our small town charm, and above all else, our sense of community.”
