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Flagler County Ranks Among the Top Florida Governments for Streamlined Financial Recovery after Disaster

By
Julie Murphy, MPIO
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July 17, 2025 – There are hundreds of boxes to be checked, “i”s to be dotted, and “t”s to be crossed to ensure Flagler County is ready for disasters such as hurricanes. In part, that’s what Emergency Management Director Jonathan Lord does under “blue skies” to ensure Flagler County ranks well within the state’s Florida Recovery Obligation Calculation (F-ROC) program that was designed to standardize, streamline, and simplify the cost-recovery process for disaster-related expenditures.

“There are hundreds of policies, procedures, and other documents that need to be updated and filed annually with the state to allow them to conduct a Disaster Readiness Assessment (DRA) for participating local governments,” Lord said, noting that he worked in tandem with his EM team and the county’s Financial Services team to complete the DRA. “The outcome of the audit-like DRA process is a score that is used to prioritize reimbursements statewide following a disaster, specifically for costs related to debris removal (Category A) and emergency protective measures, like evacuation and sheltering (Category B).”

Florida launched the program in 2023 and the first rankings occurred in 2024, making this year the second time Emergency Management and Financial Services have gone through the DRA. The highest score that can be achieved is 60, which Flagler County has for Category A. The county achieved a 59 for Category B.

The statewide average for Category A is 34, and 36 for Category B.

“I am extremely proud of our team for their foresight and dedication in establishing our place in this program. We are well prepared, both financially and operationally, for future storm events,” said County Administrator Heidi Petito. “Since the inception of the program, our Financial Services and Emergency Management teams have worked diligently to ensure our eligibility, maintain accurate documentation, and respond promptly to state requests. Their efforts have positioned us as a model participant in the program and has enabled us to seek timely reimbursements for damages sustained during storms.”

Follow Flagler County Emergency Management on a variety of social media channels:

Follow Flagler County Government on Facebook: www.facebook.com/FlaglerCountyGovernment.

St. Johns County Announces the Passing of Former Fire Chief Bobby Hall

By
SJC Public Affairs
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ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Florida, July 16, 2025 – St. Johns County has announced the passing of Bobby Hall, former Fire Chief of St. Johns County Fire Rescue (SJCFR). Hall was a respected leader and lifelong public servant whose selfless contributions shaped the foundation of SJCFR from a volunteer operation to a full-time County department. He served as SJCFR Fire Chief from 2001 to 2011.

“Chief Hall was a true visionary whose leadership fundamentally transformed Fire Rescue in St. Johns County,” said St. Johns County Administrator Joy Andrews. “He played a pivotal role in guiding the department from a volunteer-based service to the professional, full-service agency it is today. His legacy of innovation, dedication, and compassion will continue to inspire those who serve. He will be deeply missed, and his memory will remain a guiding light in the field of public safety.”

Chief Hall began his remarkable career as an EMT and went on to serve more than 35 years, retiring in 2011 as Fire Chief of SJCFR. He was one of the first Paramedics in the State of Florida. He rose through the ranks serving in many different roles and becoming SJCFR Fire Chief in 2001. He directed one of the fastest-growing departments in Florida. His guidance transformed SJCFR from a volunteer fire service with separate EMS functions into the professional, all-hazards emergency response agency it is today.

During his time as Chief Hall, SJCFR opened multiple new fire stations in the fastest growing sections of the county in addition to fully staffing an additional 14 pre-existing volunteer stations with career personnel. SJCFR hired over 150 operations personnel and associated fire truck, ambulance, and equipment purchases with this expansion.

“Chief Hall’s vision, dedication, and commitment to public service left a lasting legacy not only on this department but on the entire St. Johns County community,” said SJCFR Fire Chief Sean McGee. “It is an honor and privilege to have the opportunity to lead the department that he helped build. He will definitely be missed”.

Operation: Summer Slammer Results in Arrests of 19 Drug Dealers

By
FCSO Public Affairs Officer
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BUNNELL, Fla. — The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office has concluded Operation: Summer Slammer, a six-month undercover operation targeting drug dealers throughout Flagler County. The operation resulted in 19 arrests, including 10 during a warrant sweep on July 16. The FCSO is still searching for four offenders.

From January 1 to June 30, the FCSO Special Investigations Unit conducted a series of undercover operations, with controlled buys of over five kilograms of various illegal narcotics. This includes approximately one kilogram of cocaine; 120 grams of methamphetamine; and 60 grams of fentanyl, which is enough to potentially kill 30,000 people.

Operation: Summer Slammer also resulted in the seizures of 13 firearms, five vehicles, and $22,000 in cash profits.

During the operation, detectives obtained arrest warrants for 24 drug dealers. These offenders had a combined 316 previous arrests.

Those arrested during Operation: Summer Slammer include:

  • Kyle Ellis, 27, Bunnell: Two counts of possession of schedule I substance with intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver

  • Edriel Fernandes, 52, Palm Coast: Possession of cocaine with intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver

  • Shannon Foster, 47, Bunnell: Sale of methamphetamine

  • Leonard Fries Jr., 50, Ormond Beach: Trafficking in cocaine; possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver; possession of marijuana with intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver; two counts of possession of schedule I substance with intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver

  • Robert Galvin, 48, Bunnell: Two counts of sale of cocaine within 1,000 feet of a park

  • Wanda Hadley, 45, Bunnell: Sale of cocaine within 1,000 feet of a specified area

  • Eric Harrell, 29, Bunnell: Sale of methamphetamine, unlawful use of a two-way communications device

  • Eric Hoover, 30, Palm Coast: Possession of cocaine with intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver; unlawful use of a two-way communications device

  • Russell Laster, 53, Bunnell: Sale of cocaine, unlawful use of a two-way communications device

  • Terrence Leeks, 37, Bunnell: Sale of cocaine within 1,000 feet of a specified area

  • Thomas Leto Jr., 53, Palm Coast: Trafficking in fentanyl; trafficking in methamphetamine; sale of methamphetamine; possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver; three counts of possession of cocaine; two counts of possession of suboxone; possession of MDMA; possession of hydrocodone; possession of hydromorphone; possession of a firearm by a convicted felon; engaging in criminal offense with weapon (subsequent offense)

  • Christopher Love, 33, Altamonte Springs, Florida: Possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver; unlawful use of a two-way communications device

  • Heather Noack, 41, Palm Coast: Sale of cocaine within 1,000 feet of a park

  • Khong Siharaj, 43, Palm Coast: Two counts of trafficking in cocaine, two counts of sale of cocaine, sale of cocaine within 1,000 feet of a park, possession of marijuana (Over 20 grams), four counts of unlawful use of a two-way communications device

  • Keith Smith, 51, Daytona Beach, Florida: Sale of cocaine within 1,000 feet of a park

  • Antonio Watson, 34, Bunnell: Sale of synthetic cathinones

  • Jennifer Wood, 42, Bunnell: Two counts of sale of methamphetamine, two counts of unlawful use of a two-way communications device

  • Derick Zamora, 29, Palm Coast: Sale of oxycodone within 1,000 feet of park, sale of oxycodone within 1,000 feet of a convenience store

  • Confidential informant: Sale of methamphetamine

“Another batch of poison peddlers, including dangerous drug traffickers, are off the streets thanks to the hard work of our SIU, SWAT team, PACE Unit, K-9 Unit, patrol deputies, and communications team,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “I commend our team for another successful operation as we work hard to put poison peddlers in the Green Roof Inn.”

Shannon Foster, above, and Jennifer Wood, below, were two of 19 drug dealers arrested by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office as part of Operation: Summer Slammer.

One offender, Brandy Lynn Gochenouer, whom detectives had planned to arrest for selling fentanyl, died of an overdose during the operational period. She was 51.

Four targets are still outstanding:

  • Everett Bullard, 63, Bunnell: Sale of cocaine within 1,000 feet of a park

  • Terrance Dudley, 35, Daytona Beach, Florida: Trafficking in fentanyl

  • Gaines Smith Jr., 28, Bunnell: Two counts of sale of cocaine within 1,000 feet of a park

  • Logan Wells, 25, Palm Coast: Sale of cocaine, unlawful use of a two-way communications device

“I encourage these remaining poison peddlers to turn themselves in, because they’re going to be arrested,” Sheriff Staly added. “The only question is how long they want to keep looking over their shoulders.”

Anyone with information about the whereabouts of these remaining targets are encouraged to contact the FCSO by calling 386-313-4911, emailing TIPS@flaglersheriff.com, or calling Crime Stoppers at 1-888-277-TIPS (8477).

President Trump Signs HALT Fentanyl Act into Law

By
Flagler News Weekly
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Today, surrounded by families who have lost loved ones to the scourge of fentanyl, President Donald J. Trump officially signed the HALT Fentanyl Act into law — permanently classifying fentanyl-related substances as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act.

As President Trump said, the legislation is “delivering another defeat for the savage drug smugglers and criminals and the cartels” — and is just one of the many historic actions the Trump Administration has taken to end the carnage wrought by foreign drug cartels in our communities.

President Trump was joined by a few of the millions of Americans whose lives have been permanently changed by the fentanyl epidemic:
Greg Swan, who lost his son to fentanyl: “I would just like to say, thank you, Mr. President, for stopping the border crossings — full stop, mic drop … It was amazing what you did. We were being gaslit — and you came and lit a fire to that story, and we’re a lot safer for of it.” Watch

Anne Fundner, who lost her son to fentanyl: “In the last four years, fentanyl became the number one killer to Americans ages 15 to 48 … President Trump, for four years we felt ignored, but you’ve changed that … It is a lifeline for families across America in keeping our families safe … Thank you for keeping America safe for our children. This is what we voted for.” Watch

Jackie Siegel, who lost her daughter and sister to drug overdoses: “Mr. President, it’s an honor to be here today on behalf of our family … for this important signing.” Watch

Media Release: Office of Communications, The White House

BH Group Announces Unicorp National Developments as Co-Developer for The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Hammock Dunes

By
Flagler News Weekly
-

Palm Coast, Fla. – July 16, 2025 – BH Group, one of South Florida’s leading luxury real estate developers, announced today that Unicorp National Developments, Inc. has joined as co-developer of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Hammock Dunes in Palm Coast, Florida. This collaboration combines Unicorp’s proven expertise in transformative development across the state of Florida with BH Group’s track record in delivering world-class luxury residential communities, raising the standard for oceanfront living in the region.

Last month, both penthouses in the project’s North Tower were reserved for a combined $20 million – the highest residential transactions ever recorded in Flagler County. The milestone underscores growing demand for branded luxury residences in Northeast Florida.

“Unicorp has consistently delivered projects that redefine what’s possible in residential development across Florida,” said Isaac Toledano, Founder and CEO of BH Group. “They bring a level of vision and execution that’s rare in this business. This collaboration is about combining that expertise with our own to make something that respects the character of Hammock Dunes, while introducing a level of luxury that hasn’t existed here before.”

Unicorp National Developments, led by President and Founder Chuck Whittall, has delivered over $5 billion in real estate projects, including master-planned communities, iconic mixed-use destinations, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Orlando Grande Lakes, and the award-winning The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort and Residences.

“Working with BH Group on this project brings together two teams that understand how to create places people want to live,” said Chuck Whittall, President and Founder of Unicorp. “BH Group has earned a reputation for delivering high-caliber developments across Florida. Combining that with the legendary service of The Ritz-Carlton and our focus on design will create a residential experience you won’t find anywhere else on this coastline.”

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Hammock Dunes will span approximately 6.8 acres and feature two oceanfront towers with 128 private residences. As the final residential development within the Hammock Dunes master plan, the project blends Northeast Florida’s coastal charm with luxury living. Homes will include expansive balconies, 10-foot ceilings, private elevators, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, and interiors by Meyer Davis.

Resident owners will enjoy an extensive collection of amenities, including a resort-style pool deck, golf simulator, curated wine and cocktail bar, spa with sauna and steam room, pet spa, personal concierge, personal valet, private event spaces, and more.

The project is expected to be completed in 2027. For more information, please visithttp://www.residenceshammockdunes.com.

“Ride Smart. Ride Safe.”: Palm Coast and FCSO Crack Down on E-Bike Recklessness

By
Danielle Anderson
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Palm Coast – The City of Palm Coast and the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) are urging all e-motorcycle, e-bike and e-scooter riders—adults and teens alike—to take safety seriously following a rise in reckless riding incidents across the community.
The reminder comes after FCSO deputies arrested two juveniles last week for fleeing law enforcement on electric off-road motorcycles and putting motorists and pedestrians in danger. Both bikes were seized as part of the arrests.
“E-motorcycles, e-bikes and e-scooters are not toys—they’re motorized vehicles that demand the same level of responsibility and respect for the law as any car or motorcycle,” said Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri. “It’s our job to know the rules and ride safely. Parents, please talk to your kids, set expectations, and make sure they understand that reckless riding has real consequences. Together, we can keep Palm Coast a safe place for everyone.”
Under Florida law, riders under 16 are required to wear a helmet, and e-motorcycles and e-bikes must follow the same traffic laws as traditional motorcycles and bicycles. Riding recklessly, fleeing from law enforcement, or operating e-motorcycles on sidewalks can result in fines, arrests, and even the seizure of the bike.
“We’re seeing more riders—both teens and adults—ignoring basic safety and treating e-motorcycles, e-bikes and e-scooters like toys. This behavior puts everyone at risk,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “If you’re riding recklessly, it’s only a matter of time before you get hurt, get arrested, or have your bike seized. Parents, make sure your kids know the laws and ride responsibly. Be the sheriff in your home before we have to be the Sheriff of your child.”
The City and FCSO will roll out a public awareness campaign – “Ride Smart. Ride Safe.”—to remind all riders about e-motorcycle, e-bike and e-scooter laws, safe riding habits, and the importance of sharing the road responsibly.
Stay informed with the latest news and information from the City of Palm Coast by following us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn. You can sign up for weekly updates by visiting www.palmcoastgov.com/government/city-manager/week-in-review

Leadership Lessons with Dr. Saviak … Can’t, Don’t or Won’t?

By
Dr. Joe Saviak
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Leaders must create and sustain an environment where everyone feels safe to trust and perform. One of the most important ways to do this is to have a “safe to fail” culture.

There’s no progress, achievement, or innovation without mistakes. Mistakes are normal, natural, expected, and predictable.  We all make them.  The team has to feel free to fail, fail up, and fail forward. It’s how we learn, improve, and innovate.

One of Florida’s best CEOs Joe York would share leadership lessons with my students – all of them are current and future executives, managers, supervisors, and professionals. He would always note that he makes mistakes to the positive reaction of students. When I am mentoring, I often work into the conversation that I make plenty of mistakes.

You want the team to learn, grow, and innovate.  You do not want employees to spend their limited and valuable time and energy in defensive thinking and behaviors or avoiding solving problems for fear of the risk.  You never want employees hiding problems out of fear.  Everyone should know it is best to immediately share less than positive news.

We always want to identify the causes of mistakes to remedy not repeat.  All employee actions generally fall into three categories: can’t, don’t and won’t.

Can’t is a lack of capacity to successfully complete the required task.  Can’t is usually solved with training, coaching, and mentoring.  It could also involve removing obstacles such as a change in policies and procedures or supplying support like technology, equipment, or resources.

Don’t occurs when the employee knew the policy but did not follow it a second time.  It is key to learn their thinking and understand why they did what they did and how to best address it.  They should understand the rationale for the policy or procedure.  They must know there will be consequences if this behavior continues.  Start positive and end positive in your conversation.

Won’t is the employee repeatedly refuses to adhere to the culture, policies, and expected performance.  Intentional and chronic behavior means the employee is a poor fit for the culture and team.  They should seek employment with an organization which is a good match for their thinking and behavior.

Failure to address a problem such as behavior which violates policies means it will be repeated by that employee and replicated by others.  If it is a bad policy, then the policy needs to be changed.

The best leaders are open and honest about themselves. Successful leaders admit the truth – we all make mistakes. It is how we learn and grow from them. If you are doing and deciding, you are making mistakes. If you are learning from them and doing better, you are succeeding (Abrashoff, 2002; Blanchard, 2011; Drucker, 2001; Grant, 2017; Kotter, 2012; Lencioni, 2012; Maxwell, 1998; Welch, 2005).

#LeadershipLessonsWithDrSaviak

Flagler TDO Chief Amy Lukasik Earns Certified Destination Management Executive Designation

By
Flagler News Weekly
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(Bunnell, Fla.)—Amy Lukasik, executive director for Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches, Flagler County’s official tourism organization, recently earned the Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) designation from Destinations International. Destinations International is the world’s largest trade association for destination organizations.

Lukasik was one of 63 CDME recipients recognized at Destinations International’s annual convention taking place July 9-11 in Chicago, Illinois.

The CDME program is the only industry certification program specifically designed for destination management professionals and is the tourism industry’s highest individual educational achievement. The rigorous two-year program is designed to prepare destination organization professionals to leverage their experience and to apply their knowledge with a focus on vision, leadership, productivity and implementing business strategies.

“Earning the CDME designation is a remarkable achievement and a true reflection of Ms. Lukasik’s leadership, dedication, and expertise in the tourism industry,” said County Administrator Heidi Petito. “Her recent appointment to the Board of Directors for the Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism is a testament to your commitment to responsible travel and sustainability.”

Lukasik was also recently appointed to serve on the Board of Directors for Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism (SEE) the non-profit organization announced in June.  SEE is the professional authority for the ecotourism industry in Florida. It established and maintains the professional code of ecotourism ethics that encourages an awareness and stewardship of Florida’s natural heritage. Board members serve an elected term of two years.

“I am honored to be appointed to the Board of Directors for the Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism, the leading authority on authentic ecotourism in Florida,” Lukasik said. “with the future Flagler County Visitor Eco-Discovery Center, I look forward to helping protect and support Florida’s and Flagler County’s natural and cultural resources via sustainable tourism through my appointment.”

About Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches

Located on Florida’s northeast coast, Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches is a quirky coastal escape that features unspoiled natural beauty, a spectacular independent foodie scene, and plenty of arts and cultural activities. Attractions include 19 miles of cinnamon-colored beaches, numerous state and local parks and preserves, miles of canopied trails, and bucket-list activities like dolphin interactions and horseback rides along the shore. The area is anchored by the iconic Flagler Beach Municipal Pier, a retro-style A-Frame that opened in 1928. Area accommodations range from branded hotels to a luxury resort and vacation rentals.

For more information, please visit https://www.visitflagler.com/ or call 386.313.4320. Get to know us by following our social channels: https://www.facebook.com/PalmCoastandtheFlaglerBeaches/ or Visit Flagler on Twitter and Instagram.

About Destinations International:

Destinations International is the world’s largest and most reliable resource for destination organizations. In short – DI educates, equips, and empowers our members to grow the success of their destinations and to excel professionally. Membership grants access to a wealth of important industry resources, Membership grants access to a wealth of important industry resources, educational opportunities, and exclusive benefits. For more information, visit www.destinationsinternational.org.

About Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism

The Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism is the professional authority for the ecotourism industry in Florida. It established and maintains the professional code of ecotourism ethics that encourages an awareness and stewardship of Florida’s natural heritage. It is a non-profit educational organization with memberships that may include ecotour providers, ecotourism accommodations, tourism planners, protected area managers, academics and students, regional tourism associations, organizations and travelers.

8th Annual Operation Southern Slow Down Launches to Combat Speeding and Save Lives

By
Danielle Anderson
-

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — July 14, 2025 — The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has officially launched the 2025 edition of Operation Southern Slow Down, a multi-state traffic safety campaign aimed at reducing speed-related crashes and fatalities during the busy summer travel season. Running in partnership with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), and transportation and law enforcement agencies across Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee, this initiative seeks to remind drivers that speeding is a deadly and preventable choice.

Through enhanced enforcement efforts and widespread public safety messaging, Operation Southern Slow Down is designed to address the persistent threat of speeding and other unsafe driving behaviors on Florida’s roadways. Last year, speeding contributed to 437 fatalities—13% of all traffic deaths in the state, according to FLHSMV data.

“Florida’s transportation system is meticulously engineered to maximize safety—it’s woven into every design plan, every education campaign, and every traffic safety law enforced by our law enforcement partners,” said FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “Operation Southern Slow Down is a strong example of how each of these facets works together to create safer roadways.”

Florida Highway Patrol Major Mark Castleberry, Volusia County Chief Deputy Brian Henderson, Daytona International Speedway President Frank Kelleher, Orange City Police Chief Wayne Miller President of the Volusia & Flagler County Police Chiefs Association Inc., and FDOT District Five Director of Transportation Operations Charles Heffinger Jr., P.E. (Flagler News Weekly)

A Regional Call to Action

The campaign reflects a unified approach by southeastern states to tackle dangerous driving habits, especially speeding, through cross-border cooperation.

“Operation Southern Slow Down is a united effort to reduce dangerous driving behaviors that contribute to serious crashes on our roadways,” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze II. “Through increased enforcement and proactive education, FHP and our partners are working across state lines to save lives and move closer to our shared vision of zero traffic deaths.”

The message is simple but powerful: slow down, obey speed limits, and respect the lives of everyone sharing the road.

“Speeding threatens the lives of everyone on the road and that is why Georgia and our neighbors are sending the message that illegal and dangerous driving behaviors will not be tolerated,” said Allen Poole, Director of the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.

“This reckless decision behind the wheel is one of the top contributing factors for collisions in South Carolina,” added Robert G. Woods IV, Director of the South Carolina Department of Public Safety.

Volusia Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Brian Henderson and Frank Kelleher, President of the Daytona International Speedway and NASCAR Southeast Regional President, help kick off Operation Southern Slow Down at the Daytona International Speedway on July 14, 2025. (Flagler News Weekly)

Support from Community and Industry Leaders

The campaign also has strong support from the private sector and local communities. Frank Kelleher, President of Daytona International Speedway and NASCAR Southeast Regional President, highlighted how essential safe travel is—not only during major events like the Daytona 500, but every day:

“We need a strong partnership away from those major events in order for fans to have that great experience. Us partnering up with programs like this in the Southeast when it’s not a major event is critical… Going 20 miles an hour over the speed limit is not the answer.”

Tim Roberts, State Coordinator for the Florida Law Enforcement Liaison Program, emphasized that Operation Southern Slow Down is about more than tickets—it’s about education and prevention:

“It’s time to get the information out this way rather than on the side of the road. Hopefully it will prevent some serious injuries or fatalities… Every life is important.”

Retired law enforcement Tim Roberts, State Coordinator for the Florida Law Enforcement Liaison Program, and his father Gene Roberts stay engaged to further support law enforcement. (Flagler News Weekly)

For Roberts, the mission is personal. As the son of legendary Ormond Beach law enforcement officer Gene Roberts, Tim continues his family’s legacy of public service:

“Daytona’s always important to us, Ormond Beach is important to us… but again, there’s 67 counties in Florida, and with 23 million people there’s no demographic. We all can be victims if we don’t control what’s going on on our roadways.”

Safety First: What Drivers Can Do

To help support Operation Southern Slow Down, FDOT is urging all drivers to adopt the following safety practices:

  • Never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any impairing substances.

  • Always wear a seatbelt, and make sure all passengers are buckled up.

  • Stay alert and avoid distractions, such as mobile phones.

  • Maintain safe distances between vehicles and practice patience.

  • Plan ahead using FL511.com and allow extra time during busy travel periods.

  • Reduce speed in construction zones and be extra cautious in poor weather.

  • Report aggressive driving by calling *FHP (*347) or 911.

Law enforcement and the private sector join forces to educate the public about the dangers of speeding for Operation Southern Slow Down 2025. (Flagler News Weekly)

A Vision for Zero Traffic Deaths

With its focus on both enforcement and education, Operation Southern Slow Down is a critical component of Florida’s broader commitment to reducing traffic-related fatalities and injuries to zero. By bringing together law enforcement, transportation officials, community leaders, and everyday drivers, Florida and its Southeastern partners are making it clear: speeding is not worth the risk.

For more information on Florida’s traffic safety initiatives, visit FLHSMV.gov or FDOT.gov.

*FDOT DISTRICT FIVE CONTRIBUTED TO THIS REPORT.

St. Augustine’s Newest Haven for Book Lovers Celebrates Grand Opening

By
Kim Brown
-

ST. AUGUSTINE, Florida (July 14, 2025) – Over 1,000 eager bibliophiles visited Downtown Historic St. Augustine’s Midnight Moon Books and Boutique for its grand opening weekend on July 12th and July 13th. Owners Alison Bender and Melissa Hunt have built a cozy and intimate space packed with current and modern reads perfect to fill a dream library. As book lovers and collectors themselves, the journey to building out the storefront from scratch was a profoundly personal experience. They’re pleased to share Midnight Moon Books and Boutique, now open Tuesday through Sunday from 11am to 7pm at 111 King Street in St. Augustine, Florida.

“This is an absolute dream come true,” says Midnight Moon Books and Boutique co-owner Melissa Hunt. “It’s been such a whirlwind of activity, but to see this concept being so enthusiastically embraced, it’s just amazing. The feedback has been exactly what we dreamed it would be, and beyond. We envisioned a place where readers would feel welcome, where they could spend hours browsing, reading, and just belonging.”

Midnight Moon Books and Boutique is housed in the iconic Hamblen Hardware building, just across from the Flagler College campus. Bender and Hunt completely renovated the space, transforming it from an empty shell into a rich, vibrant space. Every single detail, from the Instagrammable moss swing wall to the brass-rimmed moon mirrors to the custom-crafted bookshelves, has been thoughtfully designed by the owners. A gorgeous wooden tree climbs one wall, its limbs holding hand-wrapped “Blind Date with a…” books (which flew off the shelves during the Grand Opening weekend) where customers can blind-purchase books paired with teas and ephemera that fit the read’s genre. Packaged treats and beverages are available for purchase, with expanded options, including wine, available in the near future. The large store houses other secret spots that will soon open for even more fun and interactive events and activities.

Melissa Hunt and Alison Bender. (Flagler News Weekly)

“We’re not done yet,” smiles co-owner Alison Bender. “Now that the main store is open, we can focus on getting the other areas of the building ready. We’re so excited to transform the larger back areas into even more space for readers to gather and enjoy their current reads. It’s going to be worth the wait.”

Midnight Moon Books and Boutique carries a curated collection of modern and traditional volumes from the fantasy, romance, and thriller realms. The boutique offers everything a reader could want, including comfy loungewear, hand-poured candles, fragrant teas, plush blankets, and handmade throws. As a women-owned small business, it focuses on highlighting female authors and vendors, with an entire section dedicated to local authors. Midnight Moon will also offer author signings, reading events, space for book clubs, and more.

More than 1,000 guests attended the grand opening day of Midnight Moon Book & Boutique in Downtown St. Augustine, Florida. (Photo: Old City PR)

ABOUT MIDNIGHT MOON BOOKS AND BOUTIQUE: Midnight Moon Books and Boutique is an independent lifestyle bookstore, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of books, stylish clothing, unique gifts, and more. Located at 111 King Street in downtown St. Augustine, the store is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11am to 7pm.

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Flagler News Weekly Editor: Danielle Anderson Published by Sunrise Media Group, LLC ©Flagler News Weekly, All Rights Reserved.
Contact us: FlaglerNewsWeekly@gmail.com
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