FWC Officer Jacob Wild Named Shikar-Safari Officer of the Year
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officer Jacob Wild received the 2025 Shikar-Safari Officer of the Year award at the FWC’s Commission meeting in Havana today. Shikar-Safari Club International is a conservation-based organization that presents awards annually to wildlife law enforcement officers in all states, provinces and territories in the United States and Canada. The annual award honors a state officer whose efforts show outstanding performance and achievement among sworn conservation law enforcement personnel.
Since beginning his law enforcement career with the FWC in 2019, Officer Wild has set a high standard for leadership, dedication and professionalism in conservation law enforcement. Known for his sharp investigative skills, he has led several major cases, including apprehending a poacher who was illegally taking deer at night and out of season, catching an outfitter who was guiding wild turkey hunts over bait and uncovering illegal hunting activity within a state park.
In addition to his investigative work, Officer Wild has made boating safety a priority, making 16 boating-under-the-influence arrests in the past year alone.
“He doesn’t just enforce the law, he leads by example,” said Col. Brian Smith, director of the FWC Division of Law Enforcement. “He headed up the ‘Guardian of the Springs’ operation, which brought together multiple agencies to improve public safety and enforce laws in a high-traffic state park. That effort included planning, training and team-building, resulting in a special challenge coin to recognize those involved. He has set the standard for leadership in conservation law enforcement.”
Officer Wild also demonstrates a strong commitment to service in other ways. He has contributed to hurricane recovery efforts, mentored younger officers, and worked closely with schools, landowners and community groups to promote conservation values. His collaboration with FWC biologists and state attorneys further strengthens the agency’s mission and impact.
“This is a huge honor,” said Officer Wild. “I have worked all over the state and have met a lot of cool men and women who wear this uniform, and this is just truly an honor.”
Officer Wild’s dedication across every aspect of his role makes him a true Officer of the Year. It is with great pride that we honor him with this year’s Shikar-Safari Officer of the Year Award.
Daytona State Leads Florida with 89 Student-Athletes Named to NJCAA All-Academic Teams
DAYTONA BEACH, FLA. (August 14, 2025) – Daytona State College had 89 student-athletes named to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) All-Academic Teams – more than any other state college in Florida, according to statistics just released by the NJCAA.
“Our student-athletes excel on the field and in the classroom,” said DSC President Tom LoBasso. “Our focus on helping students be their best – at DSC and beyond – is a demonstration of our commitment to excellence in every area of their lives.”
The NJCAA recognizes student-athletes who complete at least 24 credit hours and maintain a grade point average (GPA) of 3.6 or higher. Honorees are named to one of three academic teams:
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Third Team: GPA between 3.60–3.79
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Second Team: GPA between 3.80–3.99
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First Team: GPA of 4.00
All 11 of Daytona State’s athletic programs were represented among the honorees. The College had 28 student-athletes named to the Third Team, 34 to the Second Team and 27 to the First Team. These results place Daytona State at the top among the 28 institutions in the Florida College System Activities Association (FCSAA).
Falcon teams also excelled collectively, with nine of 10 eligible programs earning a spot on the NJCAA All-Academic Teams of the Year list. Women’s Golf led the nation with a 3.87 team GPA, while Baseball ranked second with a 3.80 GPA.
Members of the 2024-25 NJCAA All-Academic Teams include:
First Team (4.0 GPA)
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Francessca Azzollini – W. Cross Country
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Hope Barnett – Softball
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Kyle Bernardo – M. Soccer
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Maggie Boone – W. Soccer
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Evan Casterline – M. Cross Country
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Jada Clarke – W. Soccer
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Ava Colubiale – W. Flag Football
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Tiffany Cox – W. Cross Country
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Yuna Demir – W. Soccer
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Ian DeVos – Baseball
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Alexa Edmands – Softball
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Anthony Florio – Baseball
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Connor Guy – Baseball
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Abdoulie Jallow – M. Soccer
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Spencer Lawrence – M. Cross Country
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Katelyn Luna-Rodriguez – Softball
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Leia Lund – W. Volleyball
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Zachary Merriman – Baseball
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Gissel Morales – Softball
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Logan Ringel – Softball
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William Rollings – Baseball
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Erik Underwood – Baseball
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Emma Wells – W. Golf
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Tylar Whiting – W. Golf
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Chase Wilson – Baseball
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Ava Unser – Softball
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Alejandro Zuniga – M. Soccer
Second Team (3.8 – 3.99 GPA)
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Manuela Aguirre – W. Soccer
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Carlota Alonso – W. Basketball
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Sofia Azzollini – W. Cross Country
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Tyler Borton – Baseball
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Alison Boyle – W. Cross Country
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Benjamin Brietz – M. Soccer
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Maddox Brown – M. Soccer
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Madelyn Burdick – Softball
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Jaycee Davis – W. Volleyball
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Morgan Davis – Softball
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Giovanni Donzetti – M. Soccer
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Faith Durden – W. Flag Football
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Ian Garzon – M. Soccer
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Gabriella Giugliano – Softball
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Rachel Gomez – W. Golf
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Kaitlyn Harding – W. Cross Country
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Cambree Hodge – W. Golf
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Maya Horel – W. Cross Country
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Zachary Lebenson – Baseball
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Julien Maire – Baseball
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Kaylee Martineau – Softball
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Kayoum M’Bamba – M. Soccer
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Matthew McCall – M. Soccer
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Olivia McCroan – Softball
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Lina Modomo – W. Soccer
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Dylan Mullan – Baseball
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Samantha Paradise – W. Golf
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Regan Riddle – W. Soccer
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Marin Selak – M. Soccer
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Julian Scanlon – M. Cross Country
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Luke Tutunjian – Baseball
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Blake Van Horn – Baseball
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Josh Vinciguerra – Baseball
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Ace Williams – Baseball
Third Team (3.6 – 3.79 GPA)
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Risako Abe – W. Soccer
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Bismark Ayamba – M. Soccer
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Madison Balaskiewicz – W. Golf
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Kaili Cannon – Softball
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Tomasso Casadei – M. Soccer
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Jimena Castro – W. Soccer
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Jaliyah Cohnes – W. Volleyball
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Dylan Diaz – M. Basketball
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Isaiah Dorceus – M. Basketball
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Ceylone Brooks – W. Basketball
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Jake Gibson – Baseball
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Cadence Haley – W. Flag Football
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Nihal Kocakara – W. Volleyball
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Morgan Long – W. Soccer
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Matthew Lyons – Baseball
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Hailey Martinkovic – W. Soccer
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Mia McCurley – W. Volleyball
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Isaac Morrison – M. Cross Country
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Carsyn Petersen – W. Soccer
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Kalia Polete – W. Golf
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Bailee Riggins – Softball
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Kyaija Stewart – W. Basketball
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Lance Talley – M. Soccer
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Andrea Terracciano – M. Soccer
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Alyse Then – W. Soccer
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Jake Tompkins – Baseball
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Juliana Trujillo – W. Soccer
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Sophia Varga – W. Soccer
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Offering more than 100 certificates, associate and bachelor’s degree programs, Daytona State College is the leader in education and workforce training needs of Volusia and Flagler counties and beyond. The College enrolls approximately 23,000 students a year at its seven campuses, with graduates serving in critical fields including healthcare, emergency services and public safety, business, aeronautics, education, hospitality, engineering, project management, accounting, computer science, digital media and more.
Daytona State has been recognized as a leader in higher education numerous times. U.S. News & World Report ranks the College among the Top Tier Best Online Bachelor’s Programs. The U.S. Department of Education’s College Affordability and Transparency Center ranks DSC among the top 50 most affordable public four-year institutions in the country, with less than half the tuition of the national average. And U.S. News & World Report has ranked DSC among its Top Online Bachelor’s Programs for Veterans multiple times.
Holocaust Exhibit Draws Strong Turnout at Library, Educates Across Generations

PALM COAST, Fla. – It was a strong turnout for a Wednesday morning at the library, where Susan Wolchok shared the powerful story of her grandparents, Yakup and Mania—Holocaust survivors whose lives were preserved through recorded memories and photographs. The event was part of the Holocaust Speaker Series, presented by the LJD Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS), and provided attendees with a vivid, personal glimpse into one of the darkest chapters of the 20th century.
The exhibit, a traveling version of what’s offered at the Frisch Family Holocaust Memorial Gallery, combined intimate family photos with stark images from concentration camps. It served as a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed—and the importance of remembrance. Through this blend of history and personal testimony, attendees of all ages were invited to reflect on the meaning behind the phrase “Never Again.”

Wolchok emphasized the importance of education in combating modern-day antisemitism. She spoke about taking the exhibit across Florida, particularly to high schools, where she often found that students had limited knowledge of the Holocaust. However, she found hope in their curiosity. Many students engaged deeply with the content, asking thoughtful questions during Q&A sessions and opening the door for meaningful discussions and critical thinking.

One of the most striking elements of the presentation was the contrast between the haunting images from concentration camps—faces behind barbed wire, people forced into cattle cars, scenes from gas chambers—and the personal family photographs that followed. Pictures of Yakup and Mania together, and one of Mania holding Susan’s child and smiling, offered a sense of healing and hope. Despite the horrors they endured, these moments reflected the resilience of love, freedom, and human dignity.
Events like this underscore the vital role libraries play in community education. Free programming ensures that people of all ages and backgrounds have access to transformative learning experiences. Whether it’s exploring a new topic or gaining a deeper understanding of history, these opportunities create space for growth, empathy, and awareness—values more essential than ever in today’s world.
Congressman Randy Fine Tours Flagler’s Beaches to Strengthen Ties Over Shoreline Resiliency, Federal Support
August 14, 2025 – Flagler County officials on Wednesday (August 13) took Congressman Randy Fine on a comprehensive tour of its shoreline to reinforce the ongoing conversation about coastal preservation. Coastal engineering staff, administration, and Board of County Commissioners Chair Andy Dance presented Fine the proposed U.S. Army Corps of Engineers “Feasibility Study Initiative” alongside the essential FEMA-approved Category G funding for permanent beach and dune restoration.
“I appreciate Chairman Dance, County Manager (Heidi) Petito, and their team for showing me the unique issues facing the Flagler County shoreline,” Fine said. “I’ve worked on beach issues since I got elected to the legislature in 2016, understand them well, and I’m excited to help. At the county’s request, my team and I will work with my friends in President Donald Trump’s administration to cut through the red tape on these urgent projects.”
Flagler County has 18 miles of coastline with a mixture of private communities, unincorporated areas, and three of the five municipalities within the county: Marineland, Beverly Beach, and Flagler Beach. The northern half of the county is lower in elevation and includes the coquina beach outcrops that create the orange-colored sand, but it is also more prone to overtopping and back-bay flooding during hurricanes, said Coastal Engineer Ansley Wren-Key.
FEMA Category B (for emergency protective measures) and Category G (for parks, recreational, infrastructure and other public facilities) beach projects have been essential to restoring the dune in this area after hurricanes to protect the public and infrastructure from reoccurring flooding during coastal storms and hurricanes.
“We’re grateful to Congressman Fine for touring our beaches, experiencing our concerns firsthand, and recognizing that Florida’s coastline isn’t just a backdrop,” Dance said, sharing the community’s appreciation. “It’s the economic and protective backbone of our region. His dual support for FEMA Category G funding and the Corps’ feasibility study signals a robust, forward-thinking partnership.”
More than $30 million has been spent by FDEP, FEMA, and Flagler County in the northern reaches on emergency dune projects in 2019 and 2023 (a third is underway), which are only a temporary solution.
The southern half of the county has a higher elevation, but the dunes have been severely eroded, houses and infrastructure – including State Road A1A, are all at risk during storm events and hurricanes. Public safety is an issue as State Road A1A is an evacuation route that has a history of being damaged in storms of the last decade.
“Our coastal protection framework requires both near-term action and sustained planning,” Petito said of the strategy of combining immediate action with long-term planning. “With FEMA Category G funding, we can begin restoring and fortifying our dunes now, while the Army Corps’ feasibility study lays the groundwork for multigenerational resilience. Congressman Fine’s perspective as someone who truly lives the coastal lifestyle in Florida is a powerful asset in championing these initiatives.”
Follow Flagler County Government on Facebook: www.facebook.com/FlaglerCountyGovernment.
Disaster Preparedness Breakfast & Expo Highlights Hurricane Readiness
Palm Coast, Fla. — As the calendar edges deeper into hurricane season Flagler County officials continue to stress that preparedness and strong community networks are essential for resilience. While Erin poses no immediate threat to the area, this storm forecast has emergency leaders urging residents not to wait—preparedness begins before the skies darken.
Capping off a morning filled with education, collaboration, and action, Suzy Gamblain, Executive Director of event organizer Flagler Volunteer Services, received a surprise honor during Tuesday’s Disaster Preparedness Breakfast and Expo. As Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo concluded her remarks, she presented Gamblain with the Excellence in Volunteerism Award, recognizing her decades-long commitment to building a robust local volunteer network and overseeing array of programs that includes disaster response and community recovery. The room shared her enthusiasm as Gamblain, visibly moved, accepted the award before a crowd of more than 150 exhibitors and attendees.
“What an honor it was to receive such a prestigious award and to receive it from Volunteer Florida on Josie’s 3rd anniversary as CEO was super special,” said Gamblain. “None of the work I do would be possible though without the team that supports me including my staff and volunteers. It was a really special day.”

Preparedness Starts at Home
Held at the Palm Coast Community Center, the event brought together residents, first responders, nonprofits, and government agencies to promote proactive planning. Attendees received emergency preparedness kits and critical information on how to build a disaster supply kit capable of sustaining a household for up to seven days without power or water.
With the peak of hurricane season approaching in September, residents were urged to review their evacuation plans and assess their home’s ability to withstand severe weather. Starter items like gloves, blankets, flashlights, and Narcan were distributed as part of the joint effort to equip local households with the basics for storm survival.

Evacuation, Shelter, and Clear Communication
Flagler County maintains clearly defined evacuation zones—primarily along the coastline and near inland lakes—and will issue orders based on storm projections according to Emergency Management Director Jonathan Lord. Officials emphasized that residents should register for AlertFlagler, the county’s emergency notification system, to receive real-time updates and evacuation notices.
A pet-friendly public shelter and special needs shelter will be opened as needed and are supported by trained volunteers and medical staff noted members of the shelter panel with Amy Carotenuto representing Flagler Humane Society, Stephen Civitelli speaking on behalf of the Flagler Health Department, and David Bossardet for Flagler Schools.
Residents needing transportation to shelters can pre-schedule assistance through Flagler County to ensure access when the time comes. Items like personal identification, prescriptions, food, and pet supplies should accompany evacuees.
Residents with special medical needs are encouraged to sign up for the Florida Special Needs Registry before the storm hits to help officials better assess the needs of the community.
Volunteerism: The Heart of Disaster Response
Tuesday’s event placed a strong emphasis on the role of volunteers in disaster response. Speakers from organizations like Flagler Strong featuring Tracy Callahan-Hennessey, Western Flagler County’s CERT team with Geri Scott, and Parkview Church lead pastor Greg Peters shared information on how volunteers are mobilized before, during, and after storms. From clearing debris to delivering supplies, their work is central to the county’s resilience, and their documented volunteer hours help Flagler County and the municipalities when requesting FEMA reimbursement.

Flagler Volunteer Services continues to expand its disaster response training programs, with monthly courses in CPR, first aid, and search-and-rescue basics available to the public. These training opportunities are designed to empower residents with the confidence and skills to assist their neighbors in times of crisis.
Faith-based groups also maintain a large presence in Flagler County’s disaster response, often organizing neighborhood canvassing efforts and supporting long-term recovery needs such as housing and mental health care.
A Stronger Safety Net
Post-disaster recovery services are coordinated locally through Flagler Volunteer Services and supported by Flagler Cares. Whether seeking temporary shelter, counseling, or medical care, residents can call 386-319-9483 or visit flaglercares.org to be linked to the appropriate support network.

National organizations like Crisis Cleanup also partner with local volunteer groups to provide free clean-up assistance after storms. Residents are encouraged to call the hotline to request help once a storm has passed.
Building a Culture of Readiness
Tuesday’s expo was more than a one-time event—it was a testament to Flagler County’s commitment to cultivating a culture of preparedness and community connection. It’s not just about stocking up on supplies—residents are being encouraged to know their neighbors, get trained, and join the countywide effort to build resilience from the ground up.

As the largest grassroots volunteer network in the county, Flagler Volunteer Services—and leaders like Suzy Gamblain—are proving that a connected community is a prepared community. Her surprise award capped off a day filled with purpose and reminded everyone that behind every hurricane plan is the power of people ready to act.
“Today’s event showed how our community comes together to prepare and respond to disasters that impact our area. It also highlighted the positive relationships that have been formed with regional and state organizations. The turnout from the community was amazing and bodes well for our county to be more resilient if faced with an event in the future,” she said.
Conservative Republican Will Furry Announces Campaign for Florida’s 6th Congressional District
Palm Coast, FL — Conservative leader and Flagler County School Board Chairman, Will Furry has officially entered the race for the U.S. House of Representatives in Florida’s 6th Congressional District. A longtime resident of his congressional district and former business executive and successful entrepreneur, Furry is launching his campaign to bring principled, results-driven leadership to Washington.
“Faith, family, and freedom are the foundation of our nation, and they must be protected,” said Furry. “I’m committed to defending our liberties and securing the border, especially for the families who’ve suffered unimaginable loss from the fentanyl crisis. District 6 deserves a leader who embodies the strength, values, and spirit of our community.”
Furry has earned a reputation locally as a bold advocate for parental rights, educational integrity, and fiscal responsibility. His campaign will focus on key District 6 priorities, including:
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Secure Our Borders, Protect Our Communities: End illegal immigration and stop the flow of fentanyl and human trafficking that threatens Florida families.
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Fight Inflation, Respect Taxpayers: Cut reckless government spending and champion policies that strengthen our local economy and protect small businesses.
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Defend Life, Liberty, and the Second Amendment: Stand firm for the unborn and safeguard the constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens.
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Put Parents Back in Charge of Education: Expand parental rights, restore transparency in schools, and ensure children are taught, not indoctrinated.
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Protect Election Integrity and Personal Freedom: Secure our elections with common-sense reforms and defend the individual liberties that make District 6 strong.
A MAGA Republican and America First supporter of President Donald J. Trump, Furry has pledged to fight the weaponization of government, defend free speech, and oppose policies that threaten America. Furry has consistently backed Governor Ron DeSantis’ efforts to strengthen parental rights in education and push back against radical progressive ideologies.
“I’ve answered the call from the people of District 6 who want a representative that reflects their priorities, not someone who parachuted in and doesn’t know our community. I live here, I serve here, It’s about the Will of the People and I’m ready to take that fight to Washington” Furry added.
Will Furry has lived in Palm Coast with his wife and children for over a decade. He is committed to serving the people of District 6 with integrity, transparency, and an unwavering dedication to conservative values.
To learn more or to get involved in the campaign, visit www.willfurryforcongress.com
Escape the Old Jail at Old Town Trolley Tour®’s 9th Annual Jail Break 5K Run for a Cause
ST. AUGUSTINE, Florida (August 8, 2025) – St. Augustine’s spookiest 5K is taking off from the Old Jail at 167 San Marco Avenue in St. Augustine, on Saturday, October 25th. Old Town Trolley Tour®’s 9th Annual Jail Break 5K Run for a Cause raises funds for the St. Johns County Education Foundation, operating as Investing in Kids (INK!). INK! promotes success for all St. Johns County public school students and teachers through innovative programs.
“The Jail Break 5K is a great way to get moving and help our local schools,” says Dave Chatterton, General Manager of Old Town Trolley Tours®. “Our local teachers and students constantly inspire us, so it’s a great honor to bring the community together in support of education. And we like to create some good-natured competition between the schools with our Jail Break 5K School Team Challenge. The top three schools that have the most registered participants win cash prizes as well as bragging rights throughout the year!”
The Jail Break 5K is a professionally timed and scored point-to-point race. The USATF-certified course begins at the Old Jail, travels down Magnolia Avenue, and across the Vilano Bridge to the Atlantic Ocean. At the finish line, trolleys round up the ‘escaped prisoners’ and shuttle them back to the Old Jail for post-race refreshments, awards, and the Jail Break After Party. All finishers receive a custom finisher’s medal and t-shirt (shirt size and availability guaranteed to those registering by Tuesday, September 30th). Placement tiles are awarded to the overall top male and female finishers and the top three finishers in age categories ranging from under 9 to over 75 years. Runners are encouraged to wear their best costumes for the Halloween Costume Contest. A panel of local celebrity judges (judges to be announced soon!) will pick three adult and three youth winners, who will receive cash prizes and the right to strut their stuff at the After Party. St. Johns County Public Schools are invited to show their school spirit by registering students, families, friends, faculty, and staff as a team in the Jail Break 5K School Team Challenge. The public school with the highest number of registered participants will receive a one-of-a-kind Jail Break 5K Team Challenge trophy, bragging rights, and a $1,000 award for their school. Teams with the second and third-highest numbers of event participants will also receive cash awards.
Pre-race packet pick up is on Friday, October 24th, from 4:30pm to 6:30pm at the Old Town Welcome Center, located at 1305 North Ponce De Leon Blvd. Race day packet pick up and registration is on Saturday, October 25th, from 6:30am to 7:30am at the Old Jail, located at 167 San Marco Ave. The race kicks off at 8am. For more information or to register for the in-person or virtual race, visit the registration page.
ABOUT OLD TOWN TROLLEY TOURS®: Old Town Trolley Tours® of St. Augustine is a full-service tour operator that helps visitors make the most of their St. Augustine vacation. The Trolley Tours experience offers hop-on and hop-off transportation, live narrated tours, entry to world-famous attractions, easy access to over 100 points of interest, and more. Part of Historic Tours of America®, Old Town Trolley Tours® operates in nine cities.