PALM COAST, Fla. – Kicking off the holiday season with the star-studded arrival of Santa Claus via fire truck courtesy of the Palm Coast Fire Department, Saturday night in Central Park was all about the families and the hometown vibe.
The celebration combined the annual lighting of the holiday Christmas tree by the City of Palm Coast and the lighting of the displays around Central Park by the Rotary Club of Flagler County.
Palm Coast Vice Mayor Teresa Pontieri welcomes the community. Flagler News Weekly
Welcoming residents, Palm Coast Vice Mayor Teresa Pontieri was all about the families and the holiday spirit.
“This is when we, as a tradition, kick off the Christmas season, so I think it’s something exciting. Families are in town for Thanksgiving, it’s just a joyful spirit and a really good way to kick off the season,” she said before tossing kudos to the fire department team for delivering the night’s VIP, and inviting the children of the community to help flip the switch to light the Christmas tree.
Palm Coast City Councilman David Sullivan and Palm Coast Fire Department Battalion Chief Patrick Juliano attend the celebration. Flagler News Weekly
“The Palm Coast Fire Department is integral to our city. They do so much more than answer calls and respond. They’re such a special part of the city,” she added.
Rotarian and co-chair of the Fantasy Lights event Charles Barbel was surrounded by his family, and beaming with delight over the success of the evening.
“It’s such an amazing time. I love having all the community and all the volunteers come together to make this such a beautiful event,” shared Barbel, who stepped into the co-chair role this year alongside founder Bill Butler, after the retirement of Mike Kuypers.
The Barbel Family enjoys a moment together during the opening night of Fantasy Light’s 20th anniversary. Flagler News Weekly
“Game on. This is what it’s all about,” said Barbel, with trademark enthusiasm, after spearheading the addition of the Taste of the Holidays food truck experience to the Fantasy Lights event several years ago.
During his address to the community, Bill Butler, founder of the Fantasy Lights event held back tears as he remembered his young daughter Tiffany and her dream to see the community enjoy the lighted displays as she had when she first discovered them on a family trip. Now, celebrating 20 years of hosting the event, Butler is grateful the community’s support has not only been sustained, but grown.
Rotary Club of Flagler County Fantasy Lights Founder Bill Butler shares the history during the 20th anniversary celebration. Flagler News Weekly
“As I get older it’s harder to do some of these things, and I lost my longtime co-chair, so we pulled Charles in. Charles has picked it up and trying to get younger members involved. We have a lot of younger new members joining our club and we’re training them to take the reins and continue it on for years and years,” said Butler.
In the holiday spirit, Palm Coast City Councilman David Sullivan, Palm Coast Santa, Palm Coast Vice Mayor Teresa Pontieri, Rotary Club of Flagler County Fantasy Lights Founder Bill Butler, Rotary Club of Flagler County President Michelle Bartlome, and Rotary Club of Flagler County Fantasy Lights Co-Chair Charles Barbel. Flagler News Weekly
Among the new, younger members is Rotary Club President Michelle Bartlome who was thrilled with the evening’s success.
“This is everything I thought it was going to be,” she said happily. “Being able to be part of this beloved tradition in Flagler County means a lot to me, a lot to our community, and a lot to our Rotary Club.”
In the Crowd
Attending with family and friends, Justin Plummer said they look forward to the event, before heading toward Santa’s Village to explore.
“It was an amazing light show. We come every year. I think it brings everyone together,” he said.
Justin Plummer attends with friends and family. Flagler News Weekly
Longtime Palm Coast resident Linda Mahran was excited to see so many people out enjoying the holiday kickoff, noting the event’s new layout with the food trucks creating a food court destination, and excitement creating actual ‘traffic’ to attend.
“I’ve been a resident for 28 years and this is the biggest crowd I’ve ever seen at the Christmas tree lighting. It’s wonderful to see the families that are out here with all the kids to see the fantastic Fantasy of Lights put on by the Rotary,” said Mahran.
“Bill Butler’s story always chokes me up. He’s a tremendous asset to our community and always has been.”
Rotarian Kathleen Rivera collects donations during the event as part of a Girl Scout project. Flagler News Weekly
Introducing his mother to the event, Matthew Verdi also noted the new layout for the Taste of the Holidays food truck area with appreciation.
“I like how they have the food court in one section back here. We’ve been coming here a couple of years now, so it’s really good,” he said.
Matthew’s mother Sandy Verdi, a new resident in Palm Coast, shared her admiration for the hometown feel events like this bring to the community and the nostalgia and sense of tradition it instills in generations of residents.
“This is my first year here,” she said. “I absolutely love it. I think the way they have everything here is wonderful for the whole community to experience, walk through and see the lights, it’s a beautiful night, and that they can come back again, and that they offer that for free. I think it’s wonderful.”
This year’s theme is “Unite for Good”.
The Rotary Club of Flagler County Fantasy Lights, located in Central Park, Town Center in Palm Coast, will be on display nightly through the month of December. The event is free to attend and will host special performances and food trucks on select evenings. Visit Fantasy-Lights-Program-2025_map.pdf
** Thursday, Jan 29th is 9am – 4pm. Lunch will be provided.
Flagler County Emergency Operations Center
1769 E Moody Blvd. Building #3
Tuesday, Jan 13 – Disaster Preparedness
Wednesday, Jan 14 – CERT Organization
Thursday, Jan 15 – Disaster Medical Operations – Part 1
Tuesday, Jan 20 – Disaster Medical Operations – Part 2
Wednesday, Jan 21 –Disaster Psychology
Thursday, Jan 22 – Fire Safety & Utility Controls
Tuesday, Jan 27 – Light Search & Rescue Operations
Wednesday, Jan 28– CERT & Terrorism
Thursday, Jan 29 – **9am – 4pm** Course Review, Final Exam &
Simulation Brief, Disaster Simulation and Graduation
The Flagler County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program trains neighbors to prepare for, respond to, and assist in recovering from local emergencies. CERT is a nationally certified curriculum that allows people to train with subject matter experts.
Previous experience is not necessary!
Attendance is necessary at ALL sessions to receive certification.
(If unable to attend a session, it can be made up in another class. You will then receive your certificate upon completion)
Upon completion of the classes, volunteers will receive a free T-shirt!
Offered by Flagler County Emergency Management and Flagler County Volunteer Services
Palm Coast – The 14th Annual City of Palm Coast Tree Lighting Ceremony is set to return to Central Park in Town Center this Saturday, November 29, at 6 p.m. to officially usher in the holiday season.
This beloved community tradition will feature a visit from Santa Claus, appearances by members of Palm Coast City Council, and the Rotary Club of Flagler County’s launch of the 20th Anniversary Fantasy Lights display—a dazzling showcase of lights and holiday scenes throughout the park.
Families can enjoy an evening filled with food trucks, photos with Santa, kids’ crafts, and Santa’s Village, complete with hot cocoa and marshmallow toasting.
Food Trucks that will be on-site for the evening are as follows:
Cool Beans Barbeque
Crazy Good Eats
The Happy Lemon Co.
DJ Concessions
Dex N Angie
Sweet Treat Creations
Southern Sips
TABS
SoulKitchen
Wandering Hoagie
Taco Land
Wasabi
Wicked Good Mini Donuts
Chicken Slayer
Mango Mike
Sweet Melissa’s
Kona Ice
Down Home Goodies
The celebration continues all season long with additional holiday events, including the Starlight Parade in Town Center on December 6 and the Holiday Boat Parade along the Intracoastal Waterway on December 13.
The Rotary Club of Flagler County’s Fantasy Lights display will illuminate Central Park nightly from November 29 through December 30, from 6:30–9 p.m. The display features dozens of lighted exhibits, live music, and themed nights. Admission is free, and donations are appreciated to support the Rotary’s community service programs. For the full schedule, visit www.flaglerrotary.org
Palm Coast, FL— While most of Palm Coast was still waking up to the smell of turkey and pies, 1,178 runners and walkers laced up their shoes and gathered together for a beloved holiday tradition—the annual Feet to Feast 5K Run/Walk. This year’s turnout marked a new record, surpassing last year’s participation and making the 2025 Thanksgiving morning event the largest in its history.
Families, seasoned runners, some in costumes, and first-time participants filled the route with energy and gratitude as they made their way from Daytona State College Palm Coast Campus, along the scenic Intracoastal Waterway, toward the Hammock Bridge, and back again. The cool morning air, festive outfits, and laughter along the course created the perfect start to a day of family, food, and thankfulness.
Runners at the ready. Photo: City of Palm Coast
“There is nothing quite like waking up on Thanksgiving morning and celebrating together as a community,” said Acting City Manager Lauren Johnston, whose family participates in Feet to Feast every year. “To see more than a thousand people come together—running, walking, laughing, and making memories—perfectly reflects what this holiday is all about. It’s one of my favorite Palm Coast traditions, and I’m grateful to experience it alongside my family and our residents year after year.”
Top finishers took home medals—and a pie, perfect for Thanksgiving dessert. Holiday-themed costumes also shined, with awards for cutest kid costume, best overall costume, best couple costume, and best family costume adding to the festive spirit. Finalists in each category were as follows:
OVERALL WINNERS
1st Overall (M) – Mark Shannon
1st Overall (F) – Hannah Ielfield
Male 0-8
Lucas Wisniewski
William Milder
Thomas Milder
Female 0-8
Alyssa Shields
Molly Harris
Claire Gutterman
Male 9-12
Bradley Stackpole
Gavin Garrett
Harrison Bennett
Female 9-12
Mia Kopcikova
Aspen Lester
Madelyn Yorgey
Male 13-15
Dylan Ciardi
Martin Ivancik
Owen Stackpole
Female 13-15
Carsyn Olinn
Hailey Brennan
Avery Wisniewski
Male 16-19
Athan Figueroa
Brant Tarsitano
Evan Johnson
Female 16-19
Peyton O’linn
Emma Skinner
Ansley Buday
Male 20-24
Alex Mikhas
Sean Gilliam
Jack Livingston
Female 20-24
1st Overall Hannah Ielfield
Cheyenne Hulsey
Natalie Colpoys
Genesis Epstein
Male 25-29
1st Overall 1118 Mark Shannon
Mikey Garcia
Ashton Garrett
Cameron Skinner
Female 25-29
Abigail Reinert
Elizabeth Cronin
Hannah Drosdick
Male 30-34
Thomas Carroll
Zack Pierola
Simon Ep
Female 30-34
Courtney Wisniewski
Hailey Mckinley
Jennifer Markovska
Male 35-39
Sean Guldi
Andrew Earle
Travis Phipps
Female 35-39
Kimberley Roberts
Jen Ngetich
Gina Domaoal
Male 40-44
Joseph Cimino
Rocky Giannetta
Joey Arzuaga
Female 40-44
Shannon Jones
Stephanie Shields
Brooke Tucker
Male 45-49
Ron Quinn
James Lowry
Olin Lester
Female 45-49
Jessie Magee
Michelle Hulsey
Stacey Bailey
Male 50-54
Lewis Beilman
Michael Livingston
Robert Domaoal
Female 50-54
Angela Hetzler
Alexa Sampselle
Ingrid Campos
Male 55-59
Mickey Garrett
David Colpoys
Robert Montano
Female 55-59
Sheila Sullivan
Anonymous Runner
Jennifer Wislocki
Male 60-64
Bob Reynolds
Jeff Vincent
Anthony Cannizzaro
Female 60-64
Lisa Cottrell
Shawn Barbeiro
Kristin Klebacha
Male 65-69
Joseph Trubacz
Hank Wysocki
Craig Crowson
Female 65-69
Karen Trayer
Laura Foley
Marsha Pacelli
Male 70-74
John Dick
Kevin Foley
Chris Nola
Female 70-74
Mary Synk
Nancy Coye
Linda Eckardt
Male 75-79
John Hardos
Walter Menegazzi
Raymond Mackown
Female 75-79
Randi Roernes
Sherry Bolding
Mary Yount
Male 80+
Gary Bell
Ben Whaley
Tom McKinney
Female 80+
Carol Lager
Amy Beilman
Grace McGovern
The Feet to Feast 5K wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our amazing sponsors: Daytona State College, AdventHealth, State Farm, Craig Flagler Palms, Premier Chiropractic, and Chick-fil-A. Your support makes traditions like this possible and brings families together in fun, fitness, and community pride.
City of Palm Coast Parks & Rec Thanksgiving Day Staff. Photo: City of Palm Coast
Special thanks to our incredible Parks and Recreation team, who made this event a success, and the Public Works Department, Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, and Palm Coast Fire Department, who kept everyone safe along the route.
Daytona Beach, Fla. — As the need for food assistance continues to grow across Volusia and Flagler Counties, the Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties (CF/UWVFC) is stepping up with both immediate relief and long-term solutions.
Through its recent Community Impact grants, CF/UWVFC awarded $20,000 each to two key partners — The Jewish Federation of Volusia & Flagler Counties’ Doliner Food Bank and Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida — to strengthen their essential food distribution and hunger relief efforts.
The grants were highlighted during CF/UWVFC’s recent Showcase Tours, which offered an inside look at the operations and community impact of these local food banks. The visits underscored how collaboration, education, and innovation are working together to feed families and combat hunger.
“The need for food assistance is increasing within our community,” said Rabbi Rob Lennick, Executive Director of the Jewish Federation of Volusia & Flagler Counties. “Our operations alone have seen a 21–22% increase in need over the past year — and that’s before the SNAP delay. That’s why we established The Jewish Federation Doliner Food Pantry Fund — to ensure sustainable giving and long-term support for families in need.”
At Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, a CF/UWVFC grant supports the Bring Hope Home program — delivering nutritious food to the doorsteps of seniors, individuals who are transportation disadvantaged, home-bound, or immunocompromised. This program is one of the ways that the small but dedicated team of six works to maximize community partnerships to collect, store and distribute food through a network of feeding partners across the region.
“We have a lady who sends in $1 every month because she realizes the impact that a dollar can make,” said Robert Thomas, Second Harvest’s Branch Director. “Through our Grocery Alliance, that $1 becomes four meals for our community. Every donation — large or small — helps us feed more families.”
As more local households fall into the ALICE category — Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — CF/UWVFC is investing in community-driven solutions that meet both immediate needs and build long-term resilience.
“We’re transforming the way we fundraise,” said Courtney Edgcomb, President & CEO of CF/UWVFC. “Our organization is investing in nonprofits that are feeding families today while building sustainable solutions for tomorrow. That’s why we created the Food Security Endowment Fund — to ensure lasting support for programs that strengthen our community and provide food assistance for generations to come.”
With food insecurity affecting more families than ever, CF/UWVFC encourages community members to give generously — whether by supporting local food banks directly or contributing to endowment funds that ensure the long-term stability of these vital programs.
To learn how to give to CF/UWVFC funds for food security, call 386-253-0563.
FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. – The holiday season shone a little brighter this year as the Flagler County Public Library and the Friends of the Library hosted the 25th Annual Festival of Trees on Friday, November 21. The cherished tradition once again transformed the library into a glittering wonderland, drawing families, community groups, and longtime residents, eager to kick off the festive season.
More than 50 community organizations took part, decorating trees, hanging wreaths, and displaying symbols of the season that reflected both creativity and community pride. Excited families wandered through the displays, enjoying the rare opportunity to see the library glowing under dimmed lights.
Little ones visited with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Library Director Holly Albanese greeted guests personally throughout the evening, noting that the experience offered a chance to experience the library in a whole new way while expressing gratitude for the Friends of the Library for helping host the special event.
For residents, the Festival of Trees has become a beloved annual event; for local organizations, it’s also a meaningful opportunity to showcase their missions, connect with the public, and add their own artistic touch to the holiday décor.
Flagler County Commissioner Andy Dance, Commissioner Pam Richardson, and The Garden Club at Palm Coast President and Vice Chair of the Flagler County Cultural Council, Denise Garcia.
But the Festival of Trees is just the beginning of a busy and celebratory season for the library. With anticipation building, the Flagler County Public Library system is preparing to welcome the community on Thursday, December 4, to the Nexus Center Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening Gala—a milestone event marking the debut of the new home of the Bunnell Library and Flagler County Health and Human Services department.
Set at 2199 Commerce Parkway, the ribbon cutting will begin at 4 p.m., followed by tours and activities from 4:30 to 7 p.m. The celebration promises something for every age group and interest, blending entertainment, technology, and hands-on fun.
Belkis Esquivel, Liliana Escobar, and Nikki Ann Black at Flagler County Public Library.
Inside the Community Room, guests will enjoy snacks, beverages, and lively music from DJ and saxophonist Bradley Cohen, along with a 360-degree photo booth courtesy of DME Services and Rentals. Families can head to the Youth Services Program Room for a performance by magician Mark Alan, who will also wander the crowd sharing up-close illusions.
The “I Just Want to Say” tree.
Young visitors will be thrilled to meet Princess Tiana and Sonic the Hedgehog, presented by Tutu Tales Party Production, in the Children’s Room. Meanwhile, teens can challenge friends in Smash Bros. and other video games in the Teen Center. The Innovation Lab will offer button making and an Ozobot robotics demonstration hosted by NEFLIN, showing how color-coded paths can bring the tiny robots to life.
Self-guided tours throughout the Nexus Center will allow guests to explore the new facility at their own pace, with library staff stationed throughout the building to answer questions and highlight key features.
Temple Beth Shalom represented.
Full Schedule of Festivities – December 4
Bradley Cohen Music (DJ & Saxophone)
4:30–7 p.m.
Princess Tiana & Sonic the Hedgehog – Tutu Tales Party Production
4:30–6:30 p.m.
360 Photobooth – DME Services & Rentals
4:30–6:30 p.m.
Ozobot Demonstration – NEFLIN
4:30–7 p.m.
Mark Alan Magic (showtime TBA + strolling magic)
4:30–7 p.m.
Teen Video Games (Smash Bros. & more)
4:30–6:45 p.m.
Button Making – Innovation Lab
4:30–6:45 p.m.
A variety of festive trees bring the holiday spirit to life.
As the Festival of Trees illuminates the spirit of community and creativity now through the end of December, the Nexus Center Gala offers a glimpse into the bright future of library services in Flagler County. Together, these events mark a season of celebration—one that welcomes residents of all ages to gather, explore, and share in the joy of the holidays. For more information, visit www.flaglerlibrary.org.
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Following the 43-day government shutdown, Senator Moody is fulfilling her pledge to donate her salary collected during this time to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.
Senator Ashley Moody said, “The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay is an incredible organization that provides support and care to Floridians. The work they do truly saves lives. For six weeks, Senate Democrats held the American people hostage to play partisan games—impacting federal law enforcement officers’ and essential personnel’s livelihood—all while still collecting their own paychecks. When the shutdown began, I pledged to donate my pay received during that time to a local Crisis Center that helped those affected. Thank you to this wonderful group for everything you do on a daily basis to ensure the people and first responders of our state are stronger and safer.”
The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay said, “Thank you, fellow Tampa local and Florida U.S. Senator Ashley Moody, for donating your salary during the government shutdown and putting Floridians’ needs first. Your generosity helps the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay continue serving our most vulnerable.”
The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay provides:
The Florida Veterans Support Line;
The First Responder Hope Line;
Sexual assault services:
Providing forensic exams and victim advocacy services for sexual assault survivors;
Trauma counseling for children and adults;
Crisis Center staff who field emotional support calls at 911 law enforcement dispatch; and
Medical transportation 911 ambulance service, among other community services.
MORE…
As Attorney General, Moody worked with Florida legislative leaders to expand the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay’s First Responder Hope Line statewide during the 2024 legislative session—resulting in a $1 million allocation for the expansion. The Hope Line provides 24/7, lifesaving assistance to first responders and officers struggling with PTSD and other mental-health challenges. The Hope Line reports that more than 6.6% of first responders have attempted suicide—10 times the national average.
Media Release & Image: Office of U.S. Senator Ashley Moody
PALM COAST, Fla. (November 26, 2025) — Very few performers can shake the rafters like Freddie Mercury, but One Night of Queen came pretty darn close the last time they made a stop at the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center. Bringing high-voltage energy, the auditorium was alive from the first note to the final bow.
From “Fat Bottomed Girls” to “Bohemian Rhapsody,” Gary Mullen delivered full-on Freddie, earning respect from fans who’d seen Queen perform live.
What were audiences saying on their last visit?
“Fantastic show. Love them,” said John Malone. “I saw Queen three times… He’s an excellent Freddie Mercury.”
“His moves are out of this world,” added Joan Malone.
Even Flagler Auditorium audio engineer Cole Seever — who sees nearly every show — was blown away.
“One Night of Queen is probably the best band that’s ever stepped foot here,” Seever said. “The mix, the instrumentation… everything is spot on. Identical.”
Director Amelia Fulmer loved the energy and excitement from the audience and decided it was the perfect time to bring “One Night of Queen” back to the stage.
“Everybody’s getting up, dancing, having a great time—and thanking us for bringing them,” she said.
“I think this show is fabulous,” said Holly Berg, who attended with friend Donna Principato in 2022. “I’ve never seen Queen before and I just love it.”
⭐ DON’T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE IT YOURSELF — TONIGHT!
LOXAHATCHEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced proposal to protect puppies in Florida. In partnership with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the state will develop standard practices to ensure ethical dog breeding. Through this proposal, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation will be directed to license dog breeders and hold accountable puppy mills that abuse dogs, whether by overbreeding them, leaving them out in extreme weather, cramming them into small cages, or limiting their access to water.
“In Florida, we will always fight to protect man’s best friend,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “The proposal we announced today will end unethical puppy mills, hold accountable abusive breeders, and help shelter dogs find loving homes.”
Additional proposal actions includes:
Establishing a hotline for individuals to call and report abuse by breeders to better crack down on these bad actors.
Requiring pet stores to offer their space to local shelters for adoption before they use that space to sell dogs from puppy mills. As shelters across the state face overcrowding, offering animals for adoption at pet stores will help save them from being euthanized.
Developing additional legislation that provides for increased penalties for individuals who abuse or torture animals in front of a minor.
Earlier this year, Governor DeSantis signed Trooper’s Law and Dexter’s Law:
Trooper, who is now happily living with his new family, was abandoned on the side of the road as Hurricane Milton was barreling down. If not for the Florida Highway patrol, he would have most likely died. In Florida, it is now a felony to abandon and restrain a dog during a state of emergency.
Dexter’s Law was passed after a dog was brutally killed just days after adoption. Florida now has a sentencing multiplier for anyone torturing, mutilating, or killing a dog. A database was also created of those convicted of animal abuse, so shelters know not to let these evil people adopt pets. Media Release: Office of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis
