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Wednesday, October 22, 2025
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Dangers Hide Below During Hurricane Season: Sunshine 811 Offers Post-Storm Clean-Up Tips to Prevent Further Dangers & Damages

DEBARY, Fla. – As hurricane season officially begins on June 1, Floridians will start their annual preparations by stocking up on needed supplies and securing their homes against potential storms. Experts encourage residents to also consider the potential damage and aftermath, as hidden dangers lie below.

Cleaning up and digging around fallen trees, broken fences and other debris may seem harmless, but if done incorrectly, it can lead to hitting underground utility lines. This can result in service interruptions, costly repairs, injuries or even worse. Digging without knowing what’s below is a disaster waiting to happen after the storm. That’s why it is the law in Florida to contact Sunshine 811 before you dig.

Sunshine 811 is a free public service that alerts member utility companies to your dig so that they can mark underground facilities on your property. Simply visit DigSafeFlorida.com or call 811 two full business days before you start digging. If you hire a contractor to help you, make sure they 811, too. If the worst happens and you hit a utility line, do not touch it, attempt to fix it or cover it up. Contact the utility company immediately to avoid further danger.

“When a storm leaves a trail of broken fences, toppled trees and power outages in its wake, and recovery and clean up take center stage with little thought of anything else, we must remember that safety is a shared responsibility,” said Wendy Schaefer, education and awareness manager for Sunshine 811. “Calling 811 helps protect the people who dig, and their neighbors from injury and utility outages. It’s a simple phone call or online request to make sure a difficult situation isn’t made worse.”

Storm Cleanup and Restoration Tips

Sunshine 811 offers the following storm clean up and restoration tips to prevent further outages, injuries and dangers:

  • Avoid cutting above-ground lines running through trees or on the ground. These could still be live.

  • Do not place debris in front of, around or over utility structures such as boxes, meters, pedestals and transformers.

  • Before cutting away tree debris, check for buried lines tangled in the roots. If you see a line, do not touch it.

  • Make sure you contact 811 before using a stump grinder to clear out fallen trees.

  • Get utility lines marked before replacing your fallen or damaged fence.

By following these guidelines and contacting Sunshine 811 before you dig, you can protect yourself, your family and community from unnecessary harm. Stay safe and prepared this hurricane season!

 

About Sunshine 811

Celebrating more than 30 years of work to make Florida the safest place to dig, Sunshine 811 is the state’s go-to resource for education and training on safe digging processes. It’s also the organization the law requires you to call before starting any digging project. Sunshine 811 maintains a toll-free number and a 24/7 online system to notify its member utility companies of pending excavation projects so buried utility lines can be located and marked to protect the underground infrastructure.

It’s estimated that a utility line is damaged 85 times every day in Florida. Sunshine 811’s efforts are all about ensuring public safety and preventing underground utility damage. With Florida’s continued ranking as one of the top states in the country for construction activity and related jobs, safe digging in Florida and Sunshine 811’s role has never been more important.

 

Bunnell is Making History, You’re Invited to Be a Part of It!

In April, the City announced the “Be a Part of History Engraved Brick Program.”  Bricks are still available for purchase, though they are limited.  This is your chance to leave a lasting mark in the City of Bunnell- celebrate your family, honor a loved one, or commemorate a special moment.

The personalized engraved brick will be permanently installed at the Bunnell Memorial Garden. The Garden will be located in front of the new Administration Complex located at 2400 Commerce Parkway, Bunnell, FL 32110.

How to Participate:

  • Complete the form, which includes engraving options and program guidelines.

  • Submit your form and payment to the City.

Payment Options:

  • In Person: Drop off the completed form with payment (check, cash, or credit card) at City Offices located at 604 E. Moody Blvd. Suite 6, Bunnell, FL 32110.

  • By Mail: Send completed form and check only to: PO Box 756, Bunnell, FL 32110

Memorial Garden Concept

For questions about this program please contact the Community Development Office at (386) 437-7516 or the City Clerk Office at (386) 437-7500 x 5.

Flagler’s West Side Canal Maintenance Project Flows Smoothly

The Flagler County Public Works Department is ensuring that its west side Canal Capacity Expansion Project flows smoothly.

What started with cleaning the box culvert at the intersection of county roads 302 and 65 – just a small piece of the project – on the last day of March and scheduled for completion of the Canal Capacity Expansion Project on September 22, is now looking like everything will be finished before the Fourth of July.

“The contractor is working ahead of schedule and expects to be completed in the next 6 weeks for a June completion,” said Road and Bridge Manager Brad Bond. “To date, the project is 94% complete.”

The project is cleaning and reshaping two canals: the canal along County Road 302, beginning east of County Road 15 progressing west to the end of Canal Avenue; and, the canal that runs along Santana Lane, beginning at County Road 305 and continuing west to Avocado Boulevard. Precautions are being taken to prevent pollution during the project, in addition to following all federal, state, and local regulations when cleaning and reshaping canals.

The general scope of work is not limited to but includes the following:

  • Canals will be cleaned and reshaped as specified in the work document

    • Remove and dispose of sediments and debris and regrade canal to allow free and unobstructed flow of drainage water

    • Reshape and remove undesirable materials in ditches, slopes, for canal restoration according to the line, grade, and typical section for the roadway

  • County Road 302 at County Road 65 box culvert

    • Desilting and removal of debris and sediments from the box culverts

    • Regrading and stabilizing ditches in the vicinity of the drainage structure

“With the winding down of the project, the public should be aware of the potential for intermittent traffic delays on County Road 302 for site restoration efforts,” Bond said. “We appreciate the cooperation and patience we’ve received from residents. Hopefully, the weather will cooperate so we can reach the finish line ahead of schedule.”

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

Summer Wellness Jam This Saturday at Southern Recreation Center

The City of Palm Coast, in partnership with the Palm Coast-Flagler Health Alliance, reminds residents to attend the upcoming Summer Wellness Jam on Saturday, May 31, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Southern Recreation Center, located at 1290 Belle Terre Parkway.

This free, family-friendly event is designed to inspire healthy living through interactive fitness activities, food awareness, and community connection. Residents of all ages are invited to enjoy a full day of wellness programming and engaging educational experiences.

One of the event’s highlights will be a screening of the powerful documentary “To Dye For,” which follows the journey of parents and first-time filmmakers Brandon and Whitney Cawood as they explore the hidden dangers of synthetic food dyes after discovering their child’s life-altering sensitivity.

Event Schedule:

  • 11:00 a.m. – Screening of “To Dye For” (90 minutes)
  • 11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. – Youth pickleball clinic and kids fitness classes
  • 12:45 p.m. – Q&A session with filmmakers Brandon & Whitney Cawood
  • 1:15 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. – Pickleball and fitness demonstrations for kids and adults

The Summer Wellness Jam offers something for everyone—whether you’re looking to get active, explore food safety, or connect with neighbors in a supportive, health-focused environment.

For more information about the event, visit: Event Link

To stay informed about City of Palm Coast news and events, follow the City on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn, or sign up for weekly updates at: www.palmcoastgov.com/government/city-manager/week-in-review.

Flagler Woman’s Club Announces June Events

Wednesday, June 4, 1-4 pm – Bridge and Games

The Flagler Woman’s Club invites you to come and play Bridge (Progressive and Non-Progressive) or other games on Wednesday, June 4 from 1-4 pm at 1524 S Central Ave, Flagler Beach.  Please call Susanne at 386-503-1893 to reserve your spot or get answers to any questions you may have.

The Flagler Woman’s Club invites you to join us on Thursday, June 5 from 1-4 pm for our Lucky Ticket (Chinese Auction fundraiser at 1524 South Central Ave., Flagler Beach. A donation of $12.00 for the first 25 tickets and $7.00 for each additional set. There are at least 40 items up for grab. All proceeds benefit the Education Committee for scholarships.  Please join us for an afternoon of fun. Desserts will be served.  Please call Donna at 386- 313-5383 to reserve your spot or if you have any questions.

Wednesday, June 18, 1-4 pm – Bridge and Games

The Flagler Woman’s Club invites you to come and play Bridge (Progressive and Non-Progressive) or other games on Wednesday, June 18 from 1-4 pm at 1524 S Central Ave, Flagler Beach.  Please call Susanne at 386-503-1893 to reserve your spot or get answers to any questions you may have.

Saturday, June 21, 6 pm – Bunco

The Flagler Woman’s Club invites you to come and enjoy an evening of Bunco on Saturday, June 21 at 6 pm at 1524 S Central Ave, Flagler Beach.  The Hawaiian-themed Bunco Buffet featuring pulled pork will be served at 6 pm with Bunco to follow.  Feel free to bring a dish to share.  BYOB if you like.  $10 donation at the door. Call Shelly at 630-209-9660 or Debbie at 312-607-8200 for more information.

FCSO Commander Graduates Florida Sheriffs Association 2025 Commanders Academy

BUNNELL, Fla. —On May 23, the Florida Sheriffs Association honored 39 graduates from the prestigious Florida Sheriffs Association’s (FSA) Commanders Academy. Among the graduates was Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) Special Operations Commander Jonathan Dopp.

The Commander’s Academy is an exceptionally informative and educational experience that is vital for public safety leaders of the next generation. The academy has become recognized as the premier course of executive study for mid-to-upper-level Florida Sheriff’s Office leaders.

Leaders throughout Florida Sheriffs’ Offices participated in a variety of curriculums focusing on leadership, ethics, discipline, and additional subject matter areas related to upper-level leadership in law enforcement. The remaining curriculum is adjusted according to emerging trends and issues that have an impact on Florida Sheriffs Office’s and recent high-profile events.

“I’m proud of Commander Jonathan Dopp for his dedication to our community and successful completion of the Florida Sheriffs Association Commanders Academy,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “The class continues to maintain a standard of excellence the FCSO is proud to be part of.”

Commander Dopp joined the FCSO in 2006 as a patrol deputy. In 2014, he transferred to the Investigative Services Division as a Detective. In 2018, he transferred to the Problem Area Crime Enforcement Unit as a Sergeant. In 2021, he was promoted to Commander of the Special Operations Unit, and in 2024, he received the Specialty Service Award. Commander Dopp has received many commendations along with numerous awards and certificates of merit.

In addition to completing this two-week training course, Commanders Academy Class 16 also raised $117,870 for the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches. This generous donation will help support the mission of the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches in preventing delinquency and to develop lawful, resilient, and productive citizens.

Andrea and Larry Frank Inducted into the Million Dollar Roundtable in Celebration of Their Transformational Philanthropy

Ormond Beach, FL – May 29, 2025 — Wednesday night, the Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties proudly hosted a celebration honoring Andrea and Larry Frank as the newest members of the 1941 Society, the local collection of Million Dollar Roundtable members, recognizing a philanthropic milestone few in the region have achieved.

Surrounded by friends, family, nonprofit partners, and fellow changemakers, the Franks were celebrated for a legacy defined by curiosity, compassion, and generosity. Over the past five years, Andrea and Larry have awarded more than $980,000 in 90+ grants through their donor-advised fund and contributed hundreds of thousands more to critical causes throughout the community—from food insecurity and housing to health care, education, and crisis relief. They have also championed the use of endowments to support the long-term sustainability of non-profits and causes in our community by investing millions for to support future generations.

“They are two of the most generous, kind, and visionary philanthropists I have ever worked with,” said Courtney Edgcomb, President and CEO of the Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler. “Their passion is infectious, their leadership is inspiring, and their commitment to the well-being of others will impact lives for generations to come.”

The evening was designed as a reflection of the Franks’ worldview—featuring global cuisine, meaningful dialogue, and representation from local nonprofits they have championed.

“Larry and Andrea Frank exemplify what it means to lead with generosity and heart. Their inclusion in the Million Dollar Roundtable is a well-deserved recognition of a lifetime of giving that has uplifted countless lives across our community. Their philanthropy has not only inspired others but created a legacy of impact that will benefit Volusia County for years to come,” said Teresa Smith, Executive Director and Founder of Volusia County Women Who Care.

From Andrea’s hands-on service at food banks to Larry’s thoughtful dialogue on how to solve our biggest challenges, the Franks embody the very spirit of service and commitment.

The Million Dollar Roundtable is a nationwide collective that honors families and individuals whose cumulative philanthropic investments exceed $1 million. Andrea and Larry Frank now join Preston and Lynn Root as the only local families inducted into this distinguished circle, which we call the 1941 Society.

“His passion makes us passionate,” said Mr. Preston Root, “that’s what Andrea and Larry do—they ignite passion, inspire purpose, and lead by example. Their philanthropy inspires me, it inspires my wife Lynn, and my daughter Scenic. I was proud to induct my friends Andrea and Larry Frank into the Million Dollar Roundtable.”

For more information about the about the Community Foundation or to learn how to the foundation can help enhance your philanthropy, visit foundation.unitedwayvfc.org.

Chillula Kicks Off the Palm Coast Concert Series on May 29, 2025

Chillula Kicks Off the Palm Coast Concert Series on May 29, 2025!

May 29 – Biz & Brews Pop-Up Event:

The first concert will feature a “Biz & Brews” pop-up event that will highlight local businesses. This opportunity is free and will not be for vendors to sell, but to promote their services. This is a great way to inform the public about the services you provide and gain some free promotion.

Last year, Palm Coast Parks & Recreation hosted the Palm Coast Concert Series at The Stage at Town Center. This free community event brought everyone together to create lasting memories while showcasing local bands.

2024 saw plenty of talent, including Southern Chaos, SoulFire, the Navy Band, and Ashley Estevez. This year, the Palm Coast Concert Series is back!

Starting May 29, and continuing until September 25, the Concert Series will be held the last Thursday of every month from 6-8pm. We have an incredible lineup presented by Palm Coast Ford.

Senators Pick Up RJC Endorsements As 2026 Election Cycle Heats Up

The RJC is proud to endorse Senators Susan Collins, John Cornyn, Lindsey Graham, and Thom Tillis. These four patriots represent the best of the Senate Republican majority, and the RJC is committed to ensuring that they are reelected in 2026, to defend GOP control of the US Senate as Republicans work to continue delivering results for the American people.

A sixth-generation Mainer and the most senior Republican woman in the US Senate, Senator Susan Collins has earned a national reputation as a highly effective legislator who works across party lines to solve problems and deliver results for the people of Maine and America. Known for her work ethic, Senator Collins has cast more than 9,000 consecutive votes and holds the longest perfect voting record in the history of the US Senate. As Chair of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins has been a staunch advocate for fiscal responsibility, enhancing our national security, and defending our great ally, Israel.

Texas Senator John Cornyn has dedicated his career to public service, beginning as a district judge, then as a Texas Supreme Court Justice, and later serving as Texas Attorney General. In 2002, Texans elected him to the United States Senate, where he has fought to uphold the principles of limited government, personal freedom, and economic opportunity. With deep roots in Texas and a proven record of fighting for the Lone Star State, John Cornyn always puts Texans first.

Senator Cornyn is a true friend of the Jewish community in Texas and across the country. He has led the charge on Holocaust restitution, most recently introducing the bipartisan Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery (HEAR) Act, which extends and strengthens a law Cornyn wrote in 2016. The updated bill would remove the sunset date in the original bill and strengthen existing procedural protections to ensure that Holocaust victims’ claims are not dismissed due to non-merit-based factors such as time constraints.

>>>New Yorkers: RJC Board Member Eric Levine and the RJC PAC are co-hosting a fundraising reception for Senator Cornyn on Wednesday, June 18 in New York City–MORE DETAILS HERE<<<

A longtime friend of the RJC and one of the strongest advocates for the American Jewish community, Senator Lindsey Graham has been a leading voice in the US Senate for over two decades, bolstering America’s national security, fighting for conservative principles, and standing strong against antisemitism. Senator Graham is a champion of the US-Israel alliance and is one of Israel’s proudest defenders in the Senate. Senator Graham is a true fighter, and the RJC is proud to support him once again for re-election in South Carolina.

>>>Washingtonians: RJC Chairman Senator Norm Coleman and the RJC PAC are hosting a fundraising reception for Senator Graham on Thursday, June 12 in Washington, DC–MORE DETAILS HERE<<<

A proven winner in an increasingly competitive state, North Carolina Senator Thom Tillis has a track record in public service that reflects a deep commitment to fighting for the American people with common-sense leadership. Now in his second term, Senator Tillis serves on key committees, including the Senate Finance Committee, Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, and Judiciary Committee.

A true friend of the Jewish community, Senator Tillis consistently and forcefully stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Jewish students and pro-Israel patriots across the country against the scourge of antisemitism and anti-Americanism plaguing our college campuses. Senator Tillis proudly introduced the Defending Education Transparency and Ending Rogue Regimes Engaging in Nefarious Transactions (DETERRENT) Act, legislation that brings much-needed transparency, accountability, and clarity to foreign gift reporting requirements for American colleges and universities.

Recreational Harvest of Snook for Florida’s East Coast will Close June 1

The recreational harvest of snook in the Northeast, Indian River Lagoon and Southeast management regions will close June 1. The recreational harvest season will reopen Oct. 1, 2025, in the Northeast, Indian River Lagoon and Southeast management regions. Within each region, this includes all Florida state and inland waters as well as adjacent federal waters.

These regions and regulations are part of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) holistic management approach for Florida’s most popular inshore fisheries. Through this approach, seven metrics are used to evaluate the fishery by region, adding a holistic perspective to management decisions and allowing the FWC to be more responsive to regional concerns. To learn more, visit MyFWC.com/Snook. 

Northeast
Open season:  Feb. 1–May. 31 and Sept. 1–Dec. 14
Closed season: Dec. 15–Jan. 31 and June 1–Aug. 31
Bag limit: One fish per person per day
Slot limit: 28–32 inches total length
Boundaries: The northern coastal boundary is at the Florida-Georgia border and the region extends south to the Lytle Avenue/South Causeway in New Smyrna Beach. Includes the waters of the St. Johns River and its tributaries. Does not include the waters of the Withlacoochee and Kissimmee rivers, Cypress Lake, and lakes Hatchineha and Kissimmee. The management region extends inland, as shown on the map, and into adjacent federal waters.

Indian River Lagoon
Open season:  Feb. 1–May 31 and Sept. 1–Dec. 14.
Closed season: Dec. 15–Jan. 31 and June 1–Aug. 31.
Bag limit: One fish per person per day.
Slot limit: 28–32 inches total length.
Boundaries: The northern coastal boundary is at Lytle Avenue/South Causeway in New Smyrna Beach and the region extends south to the Martin-Palm Beach county line. Includes all waters of the Kissimmee River and Lake Okeechobee. Does not include the waters of Loxahatchee and St. Johns rivers and their tributaries. The management region extends inland, as shown on the map, and into adjacent federal waters. 

Southeast

Visit MyFWC.com/BNP to learn about the special regulations that apply to snook when fishing in Biscayne National Park

Open season:  Feb. 1–May 31 and Sept. 1–Dec. 14
Closed season: Dec. 15–Jan. 31 and Jun. 1–Aug. 31
Bag limit: One fish per person per day
Slot limit: 28–32 inches total length
Boundaries: The northern boundary is the Martin-Palm Beach county line and the region extends south to the Miami-Dade/Monroe county line. Includes all waters of Hillsboro Canal, Miami Canal, North New River Canal and West Palm Beach Canal, and the Loxahatchee River and its tributaries. Does not include Lake Okeechobee and Everglades National Park. The management region extends inland, as shown on the map, and into adjacent federal waters. 

For more information on recreational snook regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Snook. This page includes the snook annual reviews, which provide summaries of key findings from the annual evaluation of management metrics for each region.