2025 Student Action Summit Set for July 11-13 in Tampa
The Student Action Summit is a three-day event tailored for students and young adults. This conference brings you the best and brightest speakers in the country, hundreds of sponsoring organizations with similar values, and an ENERGY you can feel. SAS was created to activate and mobilize the generation that will boldly defend America’s freedom.
Join us July 11-13, 2025 in Tampa, Florida for the Student Action Summit as we inspire 5,000+ attendees from ALL 50 states to preserve the rights of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit to Party!
Patriotism, Tradition, and Fireworks Wrap United Flagler 4th at Flagler Executive Airport
FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. – A festive, family-friendly atmosphere welcomed residents and visitors to the Flagler Executive Airport on Friday night as part of the United Flagler 4th celebrations, closing the day with a patriotic blend of community spirit, entertainment, and tradition.
Set against the open stretch of the airport’s runways, the event featured high-energy entertainment, a variety of local food trucks, and the warm hospitality of more than two dozen volunteers, who directed traffic and staffed the first aid station to ensure a smooth and safe evening.
The Flagler Executive Airport, long recognized as a hub for community gatherings like Warbirds Over Flagler and the Rotary Club of Flagler Beach’s Race of the Runways 5K, once again drew families early. Many staked out prime viewing spots, spreading blankets and plopping down lawn chairs in anticipation of the evening’s highlight—an impressive fireworks display over the tarmac.
With a welcoming, small-town atmosphere and a strong sense of unity, the event provided a space for parents to unwind while kids reveled in summertime fun. Children ran through open fields playing impromptu games of soccer or took part in hula hoop and limbo contests emceed by Pyramid DJ’s Dave Mikulka, who brought a rock show vibe to the celebration.
Security was handled with a calm, visible presence by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, allowing attendees to relax and enjoy the festivities.
The forecasted rain never materialized and as the sun set in spectacular fashion over the runway, friends gathered to chat while kids raced from activity to activity, laughter echoing across the wide open spaces.
The evening officially began on a patriotic note with Melanie DiMartino’s stirring performance of the national anthem. Following her rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner, local dignitaries took the stage to read portions of the Declaration of Independence, reinforcing the event’s grounding in American heritage.
Palm Coast Vice Mayor Teresa Pontieri offered heartfelt remarks, connecting the community’s present to the sacrifices of the past.
“I went out and asked you, our residents, to tell me what Independence Day means to each of you,” Pontieri shared. “The common thread that I received from you is that today is the day to honor the sacrifices of those who came before us and the ongoing vigilance of those who continue to do what it takes each and every day to protect our freedoms and preserve our values.”
She added, “And today, to celebrate our Constitution and our nation—to express gratitude for living in a free and Godly country, and to ensure we never take for granted the best country in the world that we get to call home. Those are your words, and I could not have stated it better.”
The night closed with a nearly 20-minute fireworks show, a dazzling spectacle reflected in the cheers of onlookers, wrapping up a celebration that captured the heart of Flagler County—patriotism, pride, and togetherness.
United Flagler 4th Kicks Off with Flagler Beach Rotary’s Stars & Stripes Parade on A1A
FLAGLER BEACH, Fla. – Picture perfect weather held out for the annual Stars & Stripes parade hosted by the Rotary Club of Flagler Beach on Friday morning. Crowds started lining up along A1A as early as 7 am to nab a prime spot for viewing the Independence Day festivities.
Part of the United Flagler 4th day of festivities coordinated between Flagler County, and the cities of Palm Coast, Flagler Beach, and Bunnell, the parade kicks off the day with participants from across the community.
“I’m so excited to be here in Flagler Beach this morning for the parade,” said Flagler County Commissioner Pam Richardson, participating with Flagler County Commissioner Leann Pennington.
“The United Flagler 4th is an exciting time where all our municipalities are doing something together. We are really blessed to live in such a beautiful place, and I hope everyone enjoys it.”
Emceed by Rotarian Cindy Dalecki, the parade was a mix of Old Florida nostalgia and today’s most cutting-edge rides. With participants ranging from the Seawolf Privateers to John’s Towing, the A1A Jeep Beach team, and Cedar Bridge Foundation, it was a who’s who of clubs, organizations, and agencies.
It’s a special point of pride for Navy veteran Frank Consentino and Army veteran Armondo Garcia to take part in the annual Independence Day parade.
“We are very proud to be here. As Knights of Columbus, 4th Degree, we are the patriotic part of the Knights of Columbus, so we’re here with flags waving,” said Consentino, who serves as the Color Corps Commander.
Notables this year included Grand Marshal Bebe Moody, 2025 Cracker Day Queen Casey Jaeger, Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly on horseback, and a glimpse through history for Flagler Beach as they celebrate the city’s centennial with floats recognizing current and past city commissioners including John Feind, Kim Carney and Ken Bryan.
Palm Coast City Council members Charles Gambaro, Ty Miller and David Sullivan attended in red, white and blue trucks courtesy of Paul Summa and Palm Coast Ford, while Palm Coast Firefighter Lt. Patrick Juliano aka “The Paddy Piper” marched with the Palm Coast Professional Firefighters on the bagpipes.
Flagler County Fire Chief Mike Tucker, newly installed Flagler Beach Fire Rescue Chief Stephen Cox and Deputy Fire Chief Jennifer Fiveash, Bunnell Police Chief David Brannon with Bunnell Mayor Catherine Robinson, and Flagler County emotional support dog Taco, also made appearances.
Flagler Schools went all out with a festive float loaded with Flagler’s finest – students, supported by administration and school board members Will Furry, Derek Barrs, and Lauren Ramirez and Superintendent LaShakia Moore.
With 45 entries into the parade, a bevy of volunteers from the Rotary Club of Flagler Beach were joined by members of the Rotary Club of Flagler County, and other organizations to ensure participants were in place as the parade started.
“This is such a fun parade. Everybody is always looking forward to the camaraderie, the patriotism, everybody is on the same page one day out of the year,” said event chair Sheila Pillath.
“Everybody just has such a fun time. From the kids to the adults, when you are in the parade, and you’re going down that route of A1A, and you see all the happy faces, that makes all of it worth it.”
2025 Parade Winners:
MOST CREATIVE: The Seawolf Privateers, Inc.
BEST OVERALL: A1A Jeeps
BEST FLOAT: Vincent’s Clubhouse
BEST WALKERS DISPLAY: Kuk Sool Won of Palm Coast
JUDGES CHOICE: Flo Mortgage with Angel Flight
Celebrating America Together: United Flagler 4th Line Up and Details
Flagler County Government and the Cities of Palm Coast, Flagler Beach, and Bunnell invite all Flagler County residents and visitors to attend the United Flagler 4th Community Celebration on Friday, July 4th, 2025.
The day begins with the beloved Stars and Stripes Parade, presented by the Rotary Club of Flagler Beach. The parade will start at 9:00 a.m. sharp and follow its traditional route along A1A in Flagler Beach, traveling from North 6th Street to South 6th Street.
After the parade, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., residents and visitors are invited to enjoy a full day of fun at First Friday in Veterans Park in Flagler Beach. Set against the backdrop of the beach, the event will feature live music by Soulfire, brought to you by SURF 97.3 FM. Enjoy complimentary hot dogs and apple pies, tie-dye t-shirts, Al’s Big Air bounce house, water slides, a foam party, and a watermelon eating contest.
The highlight of the day will be Fireworks Over the Runways at the Flagler Executive Airport (accessible via Fin Way), with gates opening to the public at 5:00 p.m. At this family-friendly event, guests can explore a variety of vendors, including food trucks, a beer garden, and kids’ activities, while enjoying music from a live DJ on the main stage.
At 6:30 p.m., local dignitaries and elected officials will recite the Declaration of Independence and a performance of the National Anthem by Melanie DiMartino. As the evening continues, attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and find a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy the festivities, which culminate in a spectacular fireworks show at 9:00 p.m. Portable restrooms and a handwashing station will be available for convenience.
Guest parking for Fireworks Over the Runways, including handicapped spaces, will be located at the back of the airport on the south side, accessible only via Fin Way off South Belle Terre Boulevard. This is the sole event entrance this year—there will be no access to the front of the airport and no parking at Flagler Palm Coast High School. Airport Road and Bulldog Drive will be closed to traffic at 5 p.m. To accommodate attendees, additional parking spaces have been added this year, ensuring plenty of room for all guests. As a reminder, parking is not permitted along South Belle Terre Boulevard—guests must use the designated parking areas on Fin Way.
Please be aware that there is no cost associated with entry, parking, or participation in the event. Glass bottles are strictly prohibited. The airport will remain operational throughout the day, with a temporary closure during the fireworks show. The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the Palm Coast Public Works Department and Flagler Volunteer Services volunteers, will oversee traffic control, crosswalks, and parking. Carpooling is strongly encouraged to ensure the accommodation of as many guests as possible.
Save the date and join us for a day filled with fun, entertainment, and patriotic celebration! All event information will be available at UnitedFlagler4th.com. Stay updated with the latest news and information through various digital communication channels:
Flagler County Government: Website Facebook
City of Palm Coast: Website Facebook
City of Flagler Beach: Website Facebook
City of Bunnell: Website Facebook
Jonathan Lord Completes County Government Education Program at FAC Annual Conference
July 3, 2025 – Flagler County Emergency Management Director Jonathan Lord completed the County Government Education program – developed by the Institute for County Government and made possible through the University of Florida|IFAS extension. He and five other program graduates from across the state were recognized at an award ceremony held during the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) Annual Conference and Educational Exhibition.
The County Government Education (CGE) program was designed for county staff to have the same educational opportunities as county commissioners offered by the Institute for County Government (ICG). The curriculum for the CGE designation consists of 45 hours of coursework encompassing a diverse range of courses, such as growth management, financial management, and ethics, as well as elective courses such as affordable housing, emergency management, and resiliency.
“I enjoyed the opportunity to expand my knowledge outside of my public safety education and experience,” Lord said. “A broader understanding within other areas of government will help me to better serve the residents of Flagler County as emergency management director.”
Before the creation of the CGE program, county staff members were given the opportunity to audit ICG’s Certified County Commissioners program workshops, but without the ability to track progression or recognize participation.
“The CGE program offers a unique path for county staff members to learn more about the intricacies and complexities of local government,” said ICG Executive Director Eric Poole. “They can explore sectors outside of their everyday role and expand their knowledge in areas of interest, cultivating a new generation of leaders.”
Participants must fully commit to the coursework to graduate from the CGE program. This year ICG recognized six county staff members statewide for graduating from the program.
Follow Flagler County Government on Facebook: www.facebook.com/FlaglerCountyGovernment.
President Trump Issues Executive Order Establishing the Make America Beautiful Again Commission
EXECUTIVE ORDER
________________________________________________________________
ESTABLISHING THE PRESIDENT’S MAKE AMERICA BEAUTIFUL AGAIN COMMISSION
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
Section 1. Purpose. The United States is blessed with vast beautiful landscapes, abundant natural resources, and a rich heritage of discovery by travelers and outdoorsmen. America’s national parks, forests, waterways, and public lands have inspired generations and kindled our Nation’s spirit of exploration. To ensure that the next generation of Americans inherits this same sense of duty and adventure, my Administration will prioritize conserving our great American national parks and outdoor recreation areas.
Years of mismanagement, regulatory overreach, and neglect of routine maintenance require action. Land-use restrictions have stripped hunters, fishers, hikers, and outdoorsmen of access to public lands that belong to them. These bureaucratic restrictions have undermined outdoor traditions and threatened conservation funding. The National Park Service and the United States Forest Service face more than $23 billion and $10.8 billion in deferred maintenance, respectively, leaving roads, trails, and historic landmarks in disrepair. Despite these challenges, our Nation has proven that conservation and economic growth go hand in hand. Since the signing of the Great American Outdoors Act (Public Law 116-152), the outdoor recreation economy has grown to $1.2 trillion in economic output, and, in 2023, comprised 3.1 percent of employees in the United States and supported 5 million jobs.
Through both innovation and commonsense policies, America can preserve its natural beauty and expand outdoor recreation opportunities for future generations. It is the policy of my Administration to prioritize responsible conservation, restore our lands and waters, and protect our Nation’s outdoor heritage for the enjoyment of the American people.
Sec. 2. General Policies. All Federal land management agencies, as defined by 16 U.S.C. 6801(3), shall, to the extent practicable, ensure that their policies:
(a) promote responsible stewardship of natural resources while driving economic growth;
(b) expand access to public lands and waters for recreation, hunting, and fishing;
(c) encourage responsible, voluntary conservation efforts;
(d) cut bureaucratic delays that hinder effective environmental management; and
(e) recover America’s fish and wildlife populations through proactive, voluntary, on-the-ground collaborative conservation efforts.
Sec. 3. Establishment and Composition of the President’s Make America Beautiful Again Commission. (a) There is hereby established the President’s Make America Beautiful Again Commission (Commission), which shall be chaired by the Secretary of the Interior (Chair), with the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy serving as Executive Director (Executive Director).
(b) In addition to the Chair and the Executive Director, the Commission shall include the following officials or their designees:
(i) the Secretary of Defense;
(ii) the Secretary of Agriculture;
(iii) the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency;
(iv) the Director of the Office of Management and Budget;
(v) the Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers;
(vi) the Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff;
(vii) the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy;
(viii) the Chairman of the Council on Environmental Quality; and
(ix) other members of my Administration invited to participate, at the discretion of the Chair and the Executive Director.
Sec. 4. Conserving Our National Treasures. The Commission shall advise and assist the President regarding how best to responsibly conserve America’s national treasures and natural resources, including by:
(a) monitoring the implementation of this order and facilitating interagency coordination on conservation efforts;
(b) providing to the President actionable recommendations for improving conservation efforts;
(c) developing policies to recover fish and wildlife populations through collaboration rather than regulation, including policies involving coordination with State wildlife agencies;
(d) recommending to the President solutions to expand access to clean drinking water and restore aquatic ecosystems to improve water quality and availability; and
(e) developing policies to expand access to public lands, national parks, national forests, and wildlife refuges while promoting a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities like hunting, fishing, hiking, biking, skiing, climbing, boating, off-roading, and wildlife viewing.
Sec. 5. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
(d) The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the Department of the Interior.
DONALD J. TRUMP
THE WHITE HOUSE,
July 3, 2025.
Palm Coast Parks & Rec: Build Together, Play Together: July is Park and Recreation Month!
Palm Coast—July is National Park and Recreation Month — a time to honor our families, friends, and people of all ages. This year’s theme, “Build Together, Play Together,” celebrates the ways parks and recreation foster connection, wellness, and fun for all ages.
This celebration, led by the National Recreation and Park Association, highlights the essential role that parks and recreation play in shaping vibrant, connected communities throughout the nation, including Palm Coast Parks & Recreation. Nothing brings us more joy than watching the community come together, get inspired, foster health and wellness, and create lasting memories. It’s our job to enhance this community so that everyone feels welcome!
“We want to thank our residents and staff who are dedicated to creating lasting memories throughout our parks,” Director of Parks & Recreation James Hirst said. “The Build Together, Play Together theme encompasses our department’s ability to work together to get projects done, all the while fostering healthy relationships and creating opportunities for people of all ages to explore, connect, and play together. We invite the whole community to celebrate Park and Recreation Month by checking out our numerous programs, taking a hike in one of our parks, or attending a special event with your friends and family! Together, we are building a better Palm Coast for all to enjoy.”
We invite you to watch our Parks and Recreation Month video here. Created by Recreation Leader Isebelle Brenes who captures the essence of Palm Coast Parks & Recreation.
We encourage our residents to share their positive experiences, moving stories, and fond memories on social media using the hashtag #BuildTogetherPlayTogether. No matter your interest, there’s something for everyone. We hope to see our community celebrating Park and Recreation Month with our special events, parks, trails, and beyond! See below for a list of July’s opportunities to “Build Together, Play Together”:
United Flagler 4th: July 4 is the moment our residents have been waiting for—Fireworks on the runway! Come celebrate from 5-9pm at the Flagler Executive Airport. We encourage residents to arrive before 8pm to get parking and safely watch the firework show at 9pm.
Food Truck Tuesday: Located at Central Park in Town Center, July 15, from 5-8pm. To celebrate Park and Recreation Month, we will have a special activity for residents. Proceeds this month will support Parks & Recreation Summer Scholarship Program.
Pedal in the Park: July 19 from 8-10am, take a bike ride with residents and staff that will commence at the Palm Coast Community Center. Pedal in the Park is suitable for all ages and skill ranges. It will be at a leisurely pace through St. Joe Walkway/Linear Park and Waterfront Park. Register and find more information at https://www.palmcoast.gov/events/home/details/pedal-in-the-park
Palm Coast Concert Series: Landfall, a Jimmy Buffet cover band, takes The Stage at Town Center on July 31 to end Park and Recreation on a high note! Enjoy food trucks, vendors, beer & wine, and yard games with the backdrop of free, live music from 6-8pm at 1500 Central Avenue.
Find all our upcoming events at: https://www.palmcoast.gov/eventsTo learn more about Park and Recreation Month and the NRPA, visit: https://www.nrpa.org/events/july/
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
St. Augustine Sailing Looks Back at 40 Years of Sailing St. Augustine’s Waters
ST. AUGUSTINE, Florida (July 2, 2025)— One of Florida’s most iconic sailing institutions is celebrating a milestone that has been four decades in the making. On Saturday, August 2nd, St. Augustine Sailing will mark its 40th Anniversary with an all-day celebration, complete with dockside festivities, treasure hunt sails, live music, and a very special look back at the people who turned a dream into a legacy. From its humble beginnings in 1985 as a small sailing school and brokerage, to its current incarnation under the passionate leadership of Chuck and Rose Ann Points, St. Augustine Sailing has become a vital part of the city’s waterfront identity and St. Augustine’s tourism.
“This isn’t just a celebration of 40 years of business,” says Rose Ann Points, co-owner of St. Augustine Sailing Enterprises. “It’s a tribute to the legacy of sailing in our community, the families who’ve come through our docks, and the thousands of people who discovered the magic of the wind and sea with us. We look forward to sailing these waters for many more years to come.”
St. Augustine Sailing was founded in 1985 by Doug Crane, a local boating icon who dreamed of connecting yacht sales with hands-on education. Since its inception, each owner has added their own unique touch. Father-son duo James and Adam Royse began offering public charters. Alan Bossenger forged a partnership with the American Sailing Association (ASA) and introduced SailTime®, the company’s membership-based sailing club. Chuck and Rose Ann Points took over ownership of St. Augustine Sailing in February of 2018 and have continued to elevate the sailing experience. The Points have increased the ASA certification programs to over 500 students annually, with many traveling nationally to learn; launched their popular Crew & Women on the Water (WOW!) programs; and added luxury private charters with onboard chefs, elopements, corporate team-building events, and much more.
“This company isn’t just about sailing, it’s about people,” shares Chuck Point, co-owner of St. Augustine Sailing Enterprises. “It’s about creating something meaningful for our crew, our clients, and our community.”
To celebrate its 40th Anniversary on Saturday, August 2nd, St. Augustine Sailing is hosting a mix of sailing and shoreside fun, including:
– 40% off all private day, afternoon, or sunset sails booked for August 2nd only, using the code 40for40
– Two exclusive treasure hunt sails; cost is $40 per person
– Knot-tying contests, games, and giveaways
– Dockside BBQ party, with music, fun games, and cake
ABOUT ST. AUGUSTINE SAILING: St. Augustine Sailing Enterprises offers a luxury adventure experience, providing a variety of sailing excursions to suit any occasion and budget. They offer public and private charters that can be customized to create a unique experience. St. Augustine Sailing also offers sailing lessons and membership in SailTime®, a club allowing members to rent a boat at franchises nationwide.
UCF Economist: Florida’s Economy Still Strong, But Storms—Real and Political—Loom
ORLANDO, July 2, 2025 — Florida’s economy remains on solid footing despite rising threats—from hurricane season to Capitol Hill chaos—according to University of Central Florida economist Sean Snaith in his latest quarterly forecast.
“There are storms brewing that could shake up both the U.S. and Florida economies,” Snaith says. “But the Sunshine State, once again, is better positioned than most to weather what’s coming.”
Thanks to years of robust tax revenue, Florida has built a $4.4 billion rainy-day fund that could help cushion the impact of an active storm season, Snaith says. But the longer-term concern, he explains, is the fragile homeowners insurance market, which has increasingly made housing affordability a major challenge.
“If a major hurricane hits, it could send insurance costs even higher,” says Snaith, the director of UCF’s Institute for Economic Forecasting. “That’s a tough blow for a housing market already stretched by high prices and elevated premiums.”
Political risk is also on the radar. “The fallout from the GOP’s tax and spending cut bill might not hit us right away,” Snaith adds, “but continued inaction on the national debt could jeopardize future funding, especially for infrastructure Florida needs to keep growing.”
Global tensions aren’t helping. Conflict in the Middle East could disrupt oil supplies and shipping lanes, delivering economic shocks even if they don’t tip us into recession, Snaith says.
Despite all these headwinds, Snaith says the state’s economic outlook remains positive: “Florida will keep growing. The question is how smoothly we can steer through the hazards ahead.”
Additional highlights from Snaith’s four-year Florida forecast include:
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From 2025-28, Florida’s economy, as measured by Real Gross State Product, will expand at an average annual rate of 1.8%. Real Gross State Product will decelerate during the economic slowdown as growth will slow to 1.7% in 2025, 1.8% in 2026, then to 1.7% in 2027, and then rise to 2.0% in 2028.
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Payroll job growth in Florida will continue to decelerate as the economy remains essentially at full employment. After year-over-year growth of 5.7% in 2022, growth was 3.4% in 2023 but will slow to 1.8% in 2025 and will drift lower to 0.5% by 2027 before rising to 0.7% in 2028. Job growth will outperform the national labor market the entire time.
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Labor force growth in Florida will average 1.0% from 2025-28. After growing 2.0% in 2025, growth will slow to 0.6% in 2028 alongside slower economic growth.
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The slowing U.S. economy pushed the unemployment rate up to 3.3% in 2024, and it will drift slightly higher to 3.7% in 2025 and rise to 4.2% by 2028. All the while the unemployment rate will average 0.7 points below our forecast for the U.S. economy.
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Housing starts have felt headwinds from higher mortgage and insurance rates. Total starts were 193,700 in 2022—before higher mortgage rates and a slowing economy started a deceleration that will slow starts to 163,053 in 2025. From this point, starts will remain relatively steady before drifting higher to 165,391 in 2028.
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Real personal income growth will average 2.9% during 2025-28. Following an inflation-driven contraction in 2022, growth will be 3.4% in 2028. Florida’s average growth will be 0.5 percentage points higher than the national rate over the same four-year period.
