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Traffic Stop Leads to Recovery of Grenade and Drugs

By
Flagler News Weekly
-

On Monday, October 25, 2021, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) conducted a traffic stop on County Road 305 in Bunnell on a Dodge pickup truck with an expired tag and a registered owner whose driver’s license expired in 2019. The driver was identified as Louis Branson (DOB: 6/5/1956).

Deputies made contact with Branson and asked him to provide his driver’s license. He advised there was an issue with his license and he needed to clear it up with Georgia. Upon questioning it was determined Branson was aware that his license was expired for more than six months and he was arrested without incident.

An inventory search of his vehicle was conducted and a glass pipe was found in the driver’s side door and another pipe in a storage compartment. Both pipes had burn marks with residue believed to be narcotics. Also found was a device appearing to be a grenade in the vehicle. Branson stated he had cleaned out a veteran’s home and found the grenade and decided to keep it. He was unaware if it was active or not.

FCSO closed SR 305 between SR 100 West and CR 302 and diverted traffic to ensure the safety of the community. FCSO requested assistance from the St. John’s County (SJCSO) Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) to determine if it was a real grenade or a prop replica. SJCSO responded and after conducting an investigation, including an x-ray of the device, it was believed to be a real grenade based on the x-ray revealing its internal mechanisms. The grenade was removed from the vehicle and safely detonated by SJCSO EOD experts at a nearby county-owned facility.

Branson has a criminal history in both Florida and Georgia. He’s been previously charged with Burglary, Possession of Sea Oats, Trespassing, Rape, and Burglary of an Occupied Dwelling, Armed Robbery, Possession of Marijuana, Forgery, Possession of Drug Equipment, Grand Theft, Battery, Possession of Cocaine, Driving While License Suspended, and Giving False Name to Law enforcement.

“Here’s a prime example of how deputies never know what a traffic stop may turn into,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “This guy was pulled over because his tag and license were expired, and then deputies found drugs and a grenade in his vehicle. This idiot is lucky he did not blow himself or his truck up. Carrying around an explosive device is very dangerous and illegal. I’m proud of how deputies utilized their training to close the area to ensure everyone stayed safe and took this situation seriously.”

Branson was arrested for Driving with an Expired License for More than Six Months and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and booked into the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility. The investigation is continuing on the grenade and additional charges are possible.

Watch the detonation of the grenade by SJCSO EOD here: https://youtu.be/oPdv-qWta00

Media Release: Melissa Morreale, Public Affairs Officer

Organizational Services Division, Flagler County Sheriff’s Office

FLAGLER HEALTH DEPARTMENT’S MEDICAL DIRECTOR RENEWS SPECIALIST DESIGNATION

By
Flagler News Weekly
-

Bunnell, FL – Dr. Stephen Bickel, medical director of the Florida Department of Health in Flagler County (DOH-Flagler) recently renewed his “HIV Specialist” credentials by passing an exam sponsored by the American Academy of HIV Medicine. Dr. Bickel received his initial HIV specialist designation in 2018.

According to DOH-Flagler’s Health Administrator Robert Snyder, Dr. Bickel serves as medical director for Flagler Health Department, running its HIV clinic and overseeing its Hepatitis treatment program.

“We are so fortunate to be affiliated with Dr. Bickel, given his dedication to reducing the prevalence of HIV and improving public health in our community,” said Snyder.

“In addition to his responsibilities as medical director, he became our resident COVID expert over the past 19 months, spending thousands of hours poring over medical journals, articles and pandemic-related research to learn as much as he could about the virus and its transmission. Under Dr. Bickel’s leadership, our HIV program has grown to serve nearly 100 clients, with clinical evidence that they are living longer, healthier lives with fewer medical complications. We appreciate and value his commitment to our health department and his dedication to making Flagler County a healthier place to live.”

Dr. Bickel has been practicing medicine for more than 40 years and has served as the Medical Director of the DOH-Flagler since 2014. Dr. Bickel is on the executive board of Flagler Cares and a medical consultant to AdventHealth’s Community Care program.

For more information about DOH-Flagler’s HIV and Hepatitis programs, please call 386-437-7350 ext. 7091.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

For information about the local health department, go to flagler.floridahealth.gov, call 386-437-7350, or visit 301 Dr. Carter Blvd. in Bunnell. You can also listen to our weekly talk radio show “Flagler Health Matters,” Saturdays at 11:30AM, airing on WNZF News Radio 94.9FM or streaming at https://www.flaglerbroadcasting.com/wnzf.

Media Release: Florida Department of Health, Flagler County.

Two Flagler County Lieutenants Promoted to Battalion Chief

By
Flagler News Weekly
-

Two of Flagler County’s Lieutenants have been promoted to the rank of Battalion Chief, after a comprehensive series of four day scenarios and tests.

Barry Brady and Daniel VanDeusen (listed alphabetically) were promoted of the 10 applicants who tested.

“The position of Battalion Chief is one of the most critical in the fire service. As the individual responsible for management of shift operations, these men and women are key to the operational success of the department”, said Fire Chief Michael Tucker. “In choosing Chief Barry and Chief VanDeusen, we feel we have selected two individuals who have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to effectively lead the staff of FCFR. These two promotions are foundational to the future success of FCFR in serving the residents and visitors to Flagler County.”

Beginning the week of September 27th, the department began its promotional assessment process which involved a four day series of extensive tests. One day of written exams, a full day of role play with actors and a diverse interview panel representing each level of employees.

Barry Brady

Barry Brady was hired by Flagler County in May of 2007.  He is heavily involved with the development and management of the Wildfire Mitigation team.  He has his Fire Officer 1 and should be taking the Fire Officer 2 test shortly.  He has attended the Florida Prescribed Fire Manager School and is almost complete with his degree in Resource Management & Forestry from the University of Florida.

Daniel VanDeusen began his career in Flagler County over 16 years ago in 2005. He is a paramedic and a registered nurse. He is currently a member of the Technical Rescue Team, Engine Committee and Character Council. VanDeusen is a Fire Officer 1, Instructor 1 and is currently sitting for Fire Officer and Instructor 2, soon.

Daniel VanDeusen

One of the challenging assessments was a multi-jurisdictional tactical fire scenario and radio communication techniques that consumed an entire day of testing. The tactical scenario was a virtual fire in which each applicant had to assess the situation and call the necessary resources. They were evaluated by a panel of judges which consisted of a Battalion Chief and the Deputy Fire Chief from St. Johns County Fire Rescue and a retired Battalion Chief from Reedy Creek Fire Department. The applicants were assessed on their ability to make the most effective decision in a quick manner.

“Our process helps build and develop future leaders from within our organization as we continue to deliver the best level of public protection from all types of emergencies” Interim Deputy Chief Lenny Ensalaco said.

Media Release: Flagler County. Lacy Martin, Media Marketing Manager

13th Annual Super Scenic 150 Mile Garage Sale Coming In November

By
Flagler News Weekly
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Teaming up with our neighboring Florida Scenic Highways and National Scenic Byways, the Friends of A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway are bringing you the 150 mile Super Scenic Garage Sale!

Mark your calendar for this November and get ready to shop or sell over 150 miles along Florida’s east coast.

Starting in Fernandina Beach and ending in Ponce Inlet, we’re exited to host Florida’s most anticipated shopping extravaganza of the year.

Shoppers: Explore miles and miles of shopping along A1A through Nassau, Duval, St. Johns, Flagler and Volusia counties with a delightful mix of locations to stop and shop, while exploring our coastal communities along the way.
There are many participating locations and increasing weekly, offering major community sites to shop, homes and local businesses.

Sellers, local businesses and restaurants: Sign up early to get your location on the site map.

Registration NOW OPEN!
https://scenica1a.org/super-scenic-150-mile-garage-sale/

Be sure to download our free A1A Scenic Byway Mobi Tour App in your Play Store or App Store powered by TravelStorys and let your adventure this fall begin!
To register or find out more, visit https://scenica1a.org/super-scenic-150-mile-garage-sale/

If you have any questions, please contact A1A Super Scenic Garage Sale Coordinator Danielle Anderson at (904) 425-8055.

Some of the Community Sites Include:
– South Ponte Vedra Civic Assn – S. Ponte Vedra
– North Shores Improvement Association Community Center – North Vilano Beach
– Vilano Beach Publix on Poplar Road – Vilano Beach Town Center
– St. Augustine Beach Pier Park Bocce Courtyard – St. Augustine Beach
– Coastal Policy Center – Marineland
– First Baptist Church – The Hammock                                                                        – Veteran’s Park – Flagler Beach                                                                                – Cardinal Drive Parking Lot – Ormond Beach (new)                                                   – Schnebly Rec. Center -Daytona Beach
– Lillian Place Heritage Center – Daytona Beach
– Ponce Inlet Community Center – Ponce Inlet

Veteran & Retired LEO to Host Blue Lives Matter Fundraiser

By
Flagler News Weekly
-

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2021 AT 10 AM – 5 PM

Blue Lives Matter Fundraiser Event

5054 N Oceanshore Blvd, Palm Coast, FL 32137, United States

Join us for our first annual Blue Lives Matter Event. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to a family of a fallen officer. This year we will be donating 20% of the events proceeds to the family of fallen officer Jason Raynor of the Daytona Beach Police Department. Join us in person from 10am to 5pm or shop online at www.selecthomedecorandmore.com.

Teen Town Hall Set for Tonight

By
Flagler News Weekly
-

City of Palm Coast Recognizes FDOT’s Mobility Week

By
Flagler News Weekly
-

Palm Coast – From Oct. 29 to Nov. 5, Palm Coast, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), and partners from across the state are celebrating FDOT’s fourth annual Mobility Week to encourage residents to make smart, efficient, and safe transportation choices.

This year, the City of Palm Coast is recognizing the week with a series of events as well as a social media campaign that highlights the City’s amazing trail system and how to safely traverse them. Mobility Week will feature 3 special events.

The first is a kickoff walk with Mayor David Alfin at Central Park on Friday, October 29 at 12 p.m. Walkers will meet at the amphitheater area of Central Park and do some brisk laps around the fountain with friendly conversation.

On Saturday, October 30 at 10 a.m., Mayor Alfin will be joined by staff members of the City of Palm Coast and Flagler County at the Palm Coast Community Center to discuss the many transportation projects in Flagler County. The talk will end with a bike ride down St. Joe Walkway to Linear Park with Vice Mayor Eddie Branquinho.

Get the kiddos involved too, with a very special “Our Neck of the Woods.” The Palm Coast Fire Department will join Miss Ashley for an interactive story, craft time, and a fun walk through Linear Park. The Palm Coast Fire Department will offer free car seat checks to make sure your little one is riding safe and secure. “Our Neck of the Woods” is on Wednesday, November 3, at 10a.m. at Linear Park.

Mobility Week also features a statewide bicycle challenge known as the Love to Ride Florida challenge. Last year, more than 2,000 Floridians and 174 organizations rode over 200,000 miles! This year’s Love to Ride Florida Challenge kicks-off on October 29, the first day of Mobility Week and lasts through Nov. 30, 2021. The Love to Ride Florida Challenge encourages riders to pedal on throughout the month of November to earn points and qualify for prizes. Visit https://www.lovetoride.net/florida to sign up for the Love to Ride Challenge.
For more information or to register for Mobility Week activities, please visit parksandrec.fun or call 386-986-2323.

NEWS RELEASE – City of Palm Coast

Contact: Kim L. Brown, Recreation Supervisor of Marketing

386-986-2313

Oct. 19, 2021

Palm Coast Maintains Class 4 Community Rating Through Floodplain Management Practices

By
Flagler News Weekly
-

Palm Coast – The City of Palm Coast has maintained its Class 4 Community Rating System (CRS) under the National Flood Insurance Program for another year.

The City of Palm Coast earned its Class 4 Designation in May of 2017 and joined only 12 other communities in the nation that are Class 4 or better. This Class 4 Designation could translate into an up to 30% discount for flood insurance policyholders living in Palm Coast.

The CRS is administered under the National Flood Insurance Program and provides incentives for communities to join. By implementing higher standards and regulations, a community can earn points in the CRS and these points translate into flood insurance premium reductions for the citizens.

The CRS is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management practices that exceed the minimum requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

In CRS communities, flood insurance premium rates are discounted to reflect the reduced flood risk resulting from the community’s efforts that address the three goals of the program:

  1. Reduce and avoid flood damage to insurable property
  2. Strengthen and support the insurance aspects of the National Flood Insurance Program
  3. Foster comprehensive floodplain management

To find out more about the City of Palm Coasts Class Four Community Rating visit palmcoastgov.com/emergency/hurricane-flood-preparedness or email JMyers@palmcoastgov.com

You can also view the Video News Release here.

Media Release: City of Palm Coast. Shannon P. Martin, Public Information Supervisor

Park Clean Up Volunteer Opportunity Set for Saturday

By
Flagler News Weekly
-

Flagler County Parks & Recreation Department

is hosting an

“Invasive Species”

Park Clean Up

Saturday, October 23rd

8am – 12noon

Betty Steflick Preserve

815 Moody Lane, Flagler Beach

Volunteers will meet at 8am,

have a meet and greet and get a quick lesson on “Brazilian Pepper Busting”

**Students are welcome to attend and receive community service hours**

Volunteers should dress weather appropriate with closed toe shoes  and bring water and sunscreen.

TO SIGN UP TO HELP, PLEASE CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW.

https://www.needsconnector.com/parkcleanup

Information provided by Flagler Volunteer Services 

Featured Image: UF IFAS

Help the FCSO K9 Unit win the Aftermath K9 Grant

By
Flagler News Weekly
-

The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) K9 Unit has been nominated for the 2021 Aftermath K9 Grant and we need your votes to win! Voting begins on Tuesday, October 19, 2021, at www.aftermath.com/k9-grant.

Currently the FCSO K9 Unit is comprised of six handlers, their K9 partners, and a Commander. So far in 2021, the K9 Unit has responded to over 2,900 calls and has participated in dozens of community events. The FCSO K9 Unit is a vital part of our agency and ambassadors for our community.

This year, the Aftermath K9 Grant will award a total of $25,000 in grants to 10 deserving law enforcement agencies in the United States. Communities nationwide will determine the top 10 award recipients through popular vote.

“This community has played a vital role in naming three of our K9s over the last few years, and we know we can count on you again,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “Our community has always shown admiration and support of the FCSO K9 Unit and this grant money would be put to good use in furthering their training. We have an amazing K9 Unit consisting of six handlers and their K9 partners ready and willing to serve you, and we ask for your support in helping us provide them with the best training resources possible.”

Voting for the Aftermath K9 Grant begins today, October 19, and will close on October 26, 2021. Voting is easy and you can vote once every 24-hours by logging onto www.Aftermath.com/K9-Grantand once daily on Instagram (@AftermathK9Grant). Votes will be tallied after the voting period ends and the winning K-9 units will be announced on October 28, 2021.

Tell your friends, family, and neighbors about the Aftermath K9 Grant to help the FCSO to win. Everyone can vote once each day. Remember, use hashtag #AftermathK9Grant in your posts on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram and tell them to vote for the FCSO K9 Unit!

Media Release:

Date: October 19, 2021

Prepared by: Melissa Morreale

Phone and Email:  386-529-4086; mmorreale@flaglersheriff.com  Release #: 2021-244

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