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Flagler Nonprofit Grants On Tap for Women United Flagler Meet & Greet

Women United-Flagler celebrate Cindy Dalecki Morrissey. ©Flagler News Weekly

Women United Flagler will award $11,000 in grants to six local nonprofits serving Flagler County during its Meet & Greet next Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 6 p.m.—a free event open to women interested in joining Women United Flagler. The media is also invited to attend and will have an opportunity to interview the grant recipients.

“This is an opportunity for our community to experience the impact of Women United Flagler’s initiatives and to meet others who share a passion for supporting our efforts to help Flagler County residents in need, especially the ALICE population,” said Haylie Allegra, Sr. Director, Business Development at Florida Blue and Social Chairperson for Women United Flagler.

The event will be held at The Shape of Water Restaurant, a unique special event venue located at 5047 N. Ocean Shore Drive in Palm Coast. Known for its enchanting atmosphere featuring man-made waterfalls, caves, a fairy garden and more, The Shape of Water Restaurant is generously donating the use of the venue for the evening as part of their commitment to the community.

“We are grateful to The Shape of Water Restaurant for donating their magical space to help us celebrate and shine a light on these nonprofits and the vital work they do for those in need throughout our community,” said Allegra.

The six nonprofit recipients will be announced at the event, with each organization receiving funding to support programs that benefit Flagler County residents in need.

The community is invited to engage with Women United Flagler on Facebook at @FlaglerCountyWomenUnited.  For more information on the event or Women United Flagler, contact Sheila Pillath, Vice President of Development at Community Foundation & United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties at spillath@uwvfc.org.

Deltona Man Arrested on Felony Drug Charges Following Traffic Stop; Drugs, Cash and Vehicle Seized

Marijuana, cash, and drug paraphernalia seized following traffic stop in Bunnell

BUNNELL, Fla. — A Deltona man is facing felony drug charges following his overnight arrest in Bunnell after a Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputy conducted a traffic stop on his vehicle for excessive speeding.

On Oct. 28, the driver, later identified as Stephen Bellamy, 49, of Deltona, was traveling eastbound on SR 100 in a white sedan when an FCSO deputy pulled him over for driving 75 mph in a 60-mph zone. While speaking with the driver, the deputy noticed a strong odor of burnt marijuana emanating from inside the vehicle as well as fragmented pieces of marijuana, commonly referred to as shake, scattered throughout.

Stephen Bellamy (Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility mugshot)

After conducting a probable cause search, deputies located a black backpack inside the trunk containing several vacuum-sealed and ziplocked bags of marijuana, a large scale, and brown paper bags. They also found a black bag containing cash in the passenger seat. In total, the search resulted in the seizure of approximately 376 grams of marijuana and $763 in cash.

Marijuana, cash, and drug paraphernalia seized following traffic stop in Bunnell

“Thanks to the keen eye of our deputy, a routine traffic stop for speeding led to this drug dealer’s arrest and the removal of illegal narcotics from our streets,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “While many people think marijuana is harmless, it is still illegal in Florida and if you think you can travel to our county and profit from our residents, we have plenty of room at the Green Roof Inn.”

Bellamy was arrested for possession of marijuana with intent to sell, which is a felony offense, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, where he was later released on a $6,000 bond. The vehicle was towed and seized for forfeiture due to it being used in the commission of a felony.

Bellamy is no stranger to law enforcement and has a lengthy arrest history. He has multiple previous arrests for cocaine possession, marijuana possession, marijuana possession with intent to sell, and possession of drug equipment. Other arrests include but are not limited to battery, aggravated battery causing bodily harm, domestic violence, destroying evidence, and obstruction.

Registration Open for Winter CERT Classes

ENROLLMENT IS OPEN for WINTER CERT CLASSES!

January 13, 2026 – January 29, 2026

Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday afternoons 1:00pm – 4:00pm

** Thursday, Jan 29th is 9am – 4pm. Lunch will be provided.

Flagler County Emergency Operations Center

1769 E Moody Blvd. Building #3

DATES & CLASSES

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

REGISTER HERE

Applications for FWC’s Atlantic Red Snapper Exempted Fishing Permits Project open on Oct. 31

Applications for FWC’s Atlantic Red Snapper Exempted Fishing Permits Project open on Oct. 31 

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will begin accepting applications for Quarter 2 of the Atlantic Red Snapper Exempted Fishing Permits (EFP) Project on Oct. 31. The application period will remain open for 10 days and will close Nov. 10. These projects are a continuation of the research EFPs started in 2024 to collect better data on catch and discard rates and are separate from the state management EFPs that FWC will be working on to test state management in 2026 and 2027.

For the second year in a row, the FWC has been awarded three Exempted Fishing Permits by NOAA Fisheries to conduct three unique research projects. EFPs are permits that allow harvesting for specific purposes that are otherwise prohibited under current federal regulations. The FWC recognizes that the short federal Atlantic red snapper season is disappointing; however, in these studies, selected participants will be able to catch (and keep) red snapper during a time that works for you! 

How to Apply

Applications for Quarter 2 for Year 2 are now open from Oct. 31- Nov. 10.

FWC Hot Spot Fleet and FWC Southeast Florida Snapper Grouper Fleet Projects: Applicants must apply at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com and participants will be selected via a lottery. Watch a video tutorial on how to apply.

FWC Study Fleet: Applicants must complete the Study Fleet online application form and all applications will be reviewed under Study Fleet criteria prior to selection.

Atlantic Exempted Fishing Permits Project Overview

The three studies of this project take place off Florida’s east coast from the Florida/Georgia line south to the Dry Tortugas. Two studies, the FWC Study Fleet and the FWC Hot Spot Fleet, are being conducted from the Florida/Georgia line south to the NASA vehicle assembly building in Cape Canaveral. The third study, the FWC Southeast Florida Snapper Grouper Fleet, is being conducted from the NASA vehicle assembly building south to the Dry Tortugas. Each study is somewhat different, but all focus on testing an aggregate snapper-grouper bag limit to reduce discards, improve the reporting of catch and discard information via an FWC app, and evaluate angler satisfaction of EFP participants relative to those who have to abide by current federal regulations.

The FWC is incredibly excited to continue offering this unique opportunity to Florida’s saltwater anglers for a second year. Data from Year 1 of the EFP project is already being incorporated into the upcoming Atlantic red snapper stock assessment, and a second year of this collaboration has the potential to make a significant difference and improve fisheries management in the south Atlantic, giving us all hope for a better future fishery. Florida’s recreational saltwater anglers and for-hire operators are strongly encouraged to apply to participate. More information can be found at MyFWC.com/AtlanticEFP.

Questions? Contact the FWC’s Division of Marine Fisheries Management at 850-487-0554. 

White House Public Tours to Reopen in December 2025

The White House will reopen its doors for public tours on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, with an updated route offering guests the opportunity to experience the history and beauty of the People’s House.

In celebration of the holiday season, all December tours will feature the White House Christmas decorations on the State Floor. The decorations in each room will be thoughtfully designed and curated under the direction of First Lady Melania Trump. Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy the beloved annual tradition that transforms the White House into a festive reflection of the spirit, warmth, faith, and hope of the holiday season.

Congressional offices may resume submitting tour requests for their constituents on Monday, November 3, 2025. Tour availabilities for December 2025 will open 30 days prior to each potential tour date. Tour availabilities for January 2026 are slated to be made available to congressional offices sometime in December.

For more information about public tours of the White House, members of the public are encouraged to contact their Member of Congress or visit whitehouse.gov/visit.

Media Release & Image: The White House

Florida Politics’ Peter Schorsch to Headline Volusia Tiger Bay Club Annual Meeting November 13

*Note: Founder’s Award Presentation may be delayed due to the passing of Lowell Lohman on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.

Palm Coast’s Hall of Terror Returns to Fire Station 21 on October 30-31

For the 25th year, the Palm Coast Fire Department will welcome the public back to Fire Station 21 for two nights of fearful Halloween frights at their annual Hall of Terror event, takin place on Thursday, October 30 and Friday, October 31. Founded in 2001, the Haunted House-style event has grown in popularity over the years – setting another attendance record just last year with over 7,000 attending over its two-day span in 2024.

This year’s hall will see attendees come face-to-face with Jason Voorhees of the Friday the 13th film franchise, as the Fire Station is converted into Camp Crystal Lake and other locations from the series. The franchise celebrates it’s 45th Anniversary this year, a fitting time to bring the series to life as this year’s theme.

“Friday the 13th is such an iconic series and bringing it to life inside Fire Station 21 is something we are really looking forward to,” said event director, Palm Coast Fire Department Lt. Dan Driscoll. “We are really looking forward to another year of putting on a great show and providing some great scares to the community.”

While lines for the event can get lengthy, the City of Palm Coast is offering a chance to win fast pass tickets on its Facebook page, each day at 10am from October 20-24 by answering Friday the 13th trivia questions. Several winners will be selected each day to win fast passes for themselves and their party on the event night of their choice. Food trucks will be on-site for both nights of the event.

As always, the Hall of Terror is free to attend and is open to all ages. Supervision is recommended for guests under 13 years of age. The Hall of Terror will be open from 7-10pm on both October 30 and 31 at Fire Station 21 (9 Corporate Drive). Strobe lights, smoke, loud music and other special effects are heavily featured throughout the attraction, however, those with sensory sensitivities are encouraged to attend a special walkthrough between 6-7pm on each night of the event, when special effects will be diminished so that all can enjoy the experience.

Food Truck lineup for each night of the event is as follows:

October 30

Dex & Angie

Kona Ice

Travelin Toms Coffee

October 31

Snowy Smoothie

TABS

Cool Beans BBQ

For more information, visit palmcoast.gov/events

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

Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center Opens Season with Landscapes and Legends

Maestro Gregg, St. Augustine Orchestra. Flagler News Weekly, Danielle Anderson

PALM COAST, Fla. — From Mendelssohn’s Fingal’s Cave Overture to Ravel’s Mother Goose Suite and Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony, the St. Augustine Orchestra captivated audiences Tuesday evening as it opened the 2025–26 season at the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center.

Patrons sat spellbound as the music’s soaring crescendos and gentle passages transported listeners through a journey of sound and emotion. Under the skilled baton of Maestro Scott Gregg, the orchestra delivered a performance that balanced precision with passion—an unforgettable evening for all in attendance.

Mark Leo and Kathy Reichard-Ellavsky attend the performance. (Flagler News Weekly/Danielle Anderson)

Maestro Gregg, now in his role as the 10th Music Director of the St. Augustine Orchestra, continues to build upon the organization’s more than 60-year legacy of musical excellence. Founded in the nation’s oldest city, the orchestra has long inspired Northern Florida through the power of live orchestral music—uniting the community, fostering cultural enrichment, and nurturing future generations of musicians and music lovers alike.

The St. Augustine Orchestra performs Landscapes and Legends on October 28, 2025. (Flagler News Weekly/Danielle Anderson)

The Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center is ushering in a vibrant 2025–26 season following the orchestra’s opening performance. Upcoming shows include:

Blank Space: The Taylor Swift Tribute
Saturday, November 8, 2025 @ 7:00 PM

Steve Solomon: From Brooklyn to Broadway
Friday, November 21, 2025 @ 7:00 PM

One Night of Queen
Wednesday, November 26, 2025 @ 7:00 PM

An Ozzie & Harriet Christmas with the Nelsons
Sunday, December 7, 2025 @ 7:00 PM

The Bronx Wanderers Holiday Show 2025
Friday, December 12, 2025 @ 7:00 PM

Christmas in Killarney (2025)
Wednesday, December 17, 2025 @ 7:00 PM
Rounding out the year with a spectacular finale.

With an exciting blend of symphonic music, tribute performances, and holiday favorites, the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center’s 2025–26 season promises to be one filled with artistry, joy, and community spirit without ever having to leave Palm Coast. Ticket information may be found at www.FlaglerEntertainment.com or by calling the box office at 386-437-7547.

ROAD CLOSURE: Temporary Road Closure for Bressler Lane on November 4, 2025

Palm Coast – The City of Palm Coast will close Bressler Lane at house number 57 from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.

Crews will be on-site to repair and replace the stormwater infrastructure under the roadway.

During the repair, crew members will direct drivers to Breeze Hill Lane. Signs will also be placed along Bressler Lane to warn pedestrians about the repair.

Residents are encouraged to use alternate routes to minimize delays and maintain a safe environment for workers and the community.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we continue to enhance the city’s infrastructure.

Stay informed with the latest news and information from the City of Palm Coast by following us on FacebookInstagramTwitterYouTube, and LinkedIn. You can sign up for weekly updates by visiting www.palmcoastgov.com/government/city-manager/week-in-review