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Wildfire on Flagler’s west side grows from 7 to 250 acres in a couple of hours – mind burn ban

April 25, 2025 – A fire, named the “Cowpen Fire,” that started about 3 p.m. Thursday (April 24) on the west side of Flagler County quickly grew from 7 to 250 acres in a matter of hours. Still burning, though 90% contained as of Friday morning, fire officials urge residents to be mindful of the current burn ban and to call 9-1-1 to report smoke column sightings.

There were no injuries, threatened structures, or evacuations resulting from the fire in western Flagler County off County Road 305. Crews from the Florida Forest Service (Forestry), with the assistance of Flagler County Fire Rescue, worked all night to contain the fire.

“We had the county’s UAS drone team out last night with their infrared imaging to help us get an exact picture of what this fire looks like, and to make a plan moving forward,” said Fire Chief Michael Tucker.

Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Brady Barry provided a Friday morning update.

“We will continue to assist Forestry with two attack (brush) trucks, one water tender, and one battalion,” Barry said. “Forestry, the lead agency, has the bulk of the equipment and resources.”

Those resources include a Heavy Equipment Task Force with multiple bulldozers to cut fire lines, and an Engine Strike Team of six brush trucks.

FireFlight on Thursday started dropping water on fire and was joined shortly thereafter by a Forestry helicopter out of Ocala and a fixed-wing aircraft monitoring the two helicopters to ensure a safe distance was kept as they traveled back and forth from the dipping location and the fire.

“That fixed wing is very important to the operation,” Barry said.

All fire officials urge residents to remember how dry it has been and to be diligent with fire safety habits.

Flagler County enacted a burn ban on April 22 and declared a state of local emergency to do so. The ban remains in effect for seven days.

“The conditions are becoming favorable for rapid fire growth so this action will help,” said Flagler County Fire Rescue Chief Michael Tucker. “In addition to the ban on burning, remember that a good offense is the best defense. Clear the area around your house of anything that will go up in flames easily – including stacks of firewood, portable propane tanks, and dead, dry vegetation.”

The burn ban prohibits the following:

  • Discharge/use of fireworks, sparklers, flares, or other items containing any “explosive compound”

  • Open burning, including the use of fire pits and containers

  • Outdoor cookers and grills unless continuously attended by an adult

  • Throwing matches, cigarettes, or other burning materials from vehicles

  • Parking vehicles with catalytic converters in high grassy areas

The rule of thumb for taking personal protective measures, accepted by a variety of fire prevention agencies, including the National Fire Protection Association, is that all flammable items within 30 feet of a structure should be removed. Homeowners should clear roofs, eaves, gutters, wood decks and patios of leaves, needles, and other debris.

“Additionally, do not store things under decks or porches, and consider using rocks or gravel in those areas instead grass or mulch,” Tucker said. “Wood-driven fires, like brushfires, create embers that can be carried quite far, and tend to find their way to the same nooks and crannies where leaves accumulate.”

Barbecue coals should be fully extinguished before adding them to garbage receptacles.

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

Palm Coast Fire Department Invites Community to Light the Night for Firefighter Brant Gammon

Palm Coast – The Palm Coast Fire Department and the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation invite the community to light up their homes, businesses, and community in red for fallen firefighters.

Every year, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation sponsors the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, the official national tribute to those firefighters who died in the line of duty during the previous year. In 2017, the Foundation created Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters to recognize the 25th anniversary of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend. Since then, Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters has expanded to include fire departments and families lighting their homes in red.

This year the Palm Coast Fire Department lights the night for Fallen Firefighter Brant Gammon who passed away on November 3, 2022.  Firefighter-Paramedic Gammon began his career with the Palm Coast Fire Department in 2018 as a volunteer firefighter.  He joined the ranks of the career staff in October 2020 as a Firefighter-EMT; he was promoted to paramedic shortly before he passed away.

As dusk turns to dark, landmarks, homes, fire service organizations, and businesses across the country will again glow in respect from April 27 – May 4, 2025, to the fallen and their families.

Palm Coast to Celebrate 20th Annual Arbor Day with Free Trees, Butterflies, and Family Fun

Palm Coast –  Palm Coast’s favorite eco-friendly tradition is turning 20—and the City is inviting residents to dig in and celebrate! The 20th Annual Arbor Day Celebration takes place Saturday, May 3, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Central Park in Town Center (975 Central Avenue, Palm Coast, FL 32164).

This milestone event honors two decades of environmental stewardship with a variety of free, family-friendly activities designed to promote sustainability and community spirit.

Residents can take home a free 3-gallon tree from Flowing Well Tree Farm by donating a non-perishable food item to support the local food bank. Trees are available while supplies last, so early arrival is encouraged.

The celebration includes:

  • A walk-through butterfly tent and 11 a.m. butterfly release

  • Free paper shredding

  • Live performances by the Palm Coast Community Band and The Dance Method

  • A children’s activity tent, a petting zoo, and free crafts

  • Ax throwing for adventurous guests

  • Food and beverages are available for purchase

  • Native Plant and Herb available for purchase

“For 20 years, Palm Coast’s Arbor Day has been about celebrating our environment, giving back, and bringing the community together,” said Carol Mini, City of Palm Coast Urban Forester. “This year, we’re making it bigger and better than ever, and we can’t wait to celebrate with everyone!”

Don’t miss this special day dedicated to trees, nature, and the Palm Coast community. The City of Palm Coast also wishes to give a special thank you to our incredible sponsors: Verdego, Florida Forest Service, Freese and Nichols, Cline Construction, Tractor Supply, and The Home Depot.

For more information, contact Urban Forester Carol Mini at (386) 986-3722 or cjmini@palmcoastgov.com.

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

Five Below Brings Fun and Freebies to Daytona Beach, FL with the Grand Opening of an All-New Store

WHO: Five Below, the trend-right, extreme-value brand for tweens, teens and beyond.

WHAT: Five Below is officially opening its newest store and is welcoming customers to experience all the fun, amazing value, and trendy products on Friday, April 25. The all-new Five Below is beyond belief in value and has it all, including candy and snacks, brand name beauty, the latest tech, room décor and lots more. Find all the newness and fun for way less than the others!

To celebrate the grand opening, the store will host a festive weekend filled with fun, music, kids’ activities, and special prizes. Customers who visit the store on Saturday, April 26, will receive a FREE drawstring bag (while supplies last) and can enjoy FREE hot dogs from 12pm to 3pm that same day (2 per person, while supplies last)!

Located in the International Speedway Square, the new store will offer customers the opportunity to shop the wide assortment of extreme value products spanning exciting and awesome Five Below worlds – Style, Room, Sports, Tech, Create, Party, Candy and New & Now. Additionally, the new Five Below offers convenience and fun with our Party Shop featuring a large variety of helium balloons, décor and favors. Most products range from $1-5, and customers can shop for even more extreme value items priced beyond $5.

WHEN: Store hours are as follows:

· Monday through Saturday: 10am to 9pm

· Sunday: 10am to 7pm

WHERE: Five Below

International Speedway Square

2500 W International Speedway Blvd.

Daytona Beach, FL 32114

MORE: Five Below is a leading high-growth value retailer offering trend-right, high-quality products loved by tweens, teens and beyond. We believe life is better when customers are free to “let go & have fun” in an amazing experience filled with unlimited possibilities. With most items priced between $1 and $5 and some extreme value items priced beyond $5 in our incredible Five Beyond shop, Five Below makes it easy to say YES! to the newest, coolest stuff across eight awesome Five Below worlds: Style, Room, Sports, Tech, Create, Party, Candy, and New & Now. Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Five Below today has more than 1,800 stores in 44 states. For more information, please visit www.fivebelow.com or find @Five Below on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook.

Flagler County Issues Burn Ban to Protect Against Wildfire Threat Caused by Dry Conditions

April 23, 2025 – Flagler County enacted a burn ban effective 5 p.m. Wednesday (April 23) and declared a state of local emergency to do so. The ban remains in effect for seven days.

“The conditions are becoming favorable for rapid fire growth so this action will help,” said Flagler County Fire Rescue Chief Michael Tucker. “In addition to the ban on burning, remember that a good offense is the best defense. Clear the area around your house of anything that will go up in flames easily – including stacks of firewood, portable propane tanks, and dead, dry vegetation.”

The burn ban prohibits the following:

  • Discharge/use of fireworks, sparklers, flares, or other items containing any “explosive compound”

  • Open burning, including the use of fire pits and containers

  • Outdoor cookers and grills unless continuously attended by an adult

  • Throwing matches, cigarettes, or other burning materials from vehicles

  • Parking vehicles with catalytic converters in high grassy areas

Chapter 12, Flagler County Code, and Section 252.38(3), Florida Statutes, authorize Flagler County to declare a state of local emergency for durations of seven days and to extend them in seven-day intervals, during which time the county may waive the procedures and formalities otherwise required of political subdivisions by law.

The current Keetch Byram Drought Index (KBDI) mean is expected to exceed 500 for Flagler County later today, and there is no significant rainfall forecast for the next seven days. The KBDI is a range from 0 (zero) to 800 in which 0 is the wettest condition and 800 is the dryest, or drought.

The rule of thumb for taking personal protective measures, accepted by a variety of fire prevention agencies, including the National Fire Protection Association, is that all flammable items within 30 feet of a structure should be removed. Homeowners should clear roofs, eaves, gutters, wood decks and patios of leaves, needles, and other debris.

“Additionally, do not store things under decks or porches, and consider using rocks or gravel in those areas instead grass or mulch,” Tucker said. “Wood-driven fires, like brushfires, create embers that can be carried quite far, and tend to find their way to the same nooks and crannies where leaves accumulate.”

Barbecue coals should be fully extinguished before adding them to garbage receptacles.

“Please take this burn ban seriously,” Tucker said. “It’s been about a year since we’ve had one in Flagler County, so please heed our warnings.”

To see the entirety of the burn ban restrictions, please visit www.FlaglerCounty.gov/emergency and click on Emergency Notices.

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

Microgrant Program Started in 2024 to Commemorate Firm’s 60th Anniversary Expanded to Recognize More Winners in Additional Florida and Georgia Counties

MELBOURNE, Fla. – April 22, 2025 – BRPH, a nationally ranked architecture, engineering and construction firm, announced today it will award up to 10 grants of up to $1,000 each to K-12 educators who teach science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) in selected counties throughout Florida and Georgia.

The firm created the STEAM Educator Microgrant program in 2024 in celebration of its 60th anniversary to support educators and help instill a passion for STEAM learning among elementary and secondary students. Last fall, the firm awarded $1,000 grants to six educators, three in Florida and three in Georgia.

The program was so well received, the firm has decided to expand the program to as many as 10 total grants and has expanded the number of eligible counties in both states. The grants will be used to fund hands-on and immersive projects that educators might otherwise not have funds to execute. The contest is open to educators at private, public and charter schools.

To be eligible, educators must teach in one of the following counties/school districts:

  • Florida: Brevard, Flagler, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Seminole, Volusia

  • Georgia: Bibb, Carroll, Cherokee, Clarke, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Paulding, Walton

Educators must complete the application form at https://bit.ly/4hKE1rQ by July 31, 2025, and provide the following information:

  • A detailed description of the proposed project with a clear explanation of how the project relates to science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics curriculum.

  • An explanation of how the proposed project will provide hands-on, immersive lesson(s) to inspire students’ interest in STEAM topics.

  • A detailed budget and timeline to explain how and when the funds will be spent, as well as the total number of students impacted. Educators may request any amount up to $1,000.

Recipients of the grants will be announced in fall 2025. See application for complete rules and requirements.

“BRPH has been providing architecture, design and engineering services for the education market throughout our 61-year history and we’re deeply invested in improving the lives of faculty, staff and students,” said Brian Curtin, CEO of BRPH. “We are especially proud to support the hard-working teachers in the districts where we do business and to help inspire the next generation of STEAM scholars who will one day join us as architects, engineers and constructors.”

Winners of the 2024 BRPH STEAM Educator Microgrants included:

  • Nicole Sherburne at Dr. W.J. Creel Elementary School in Melbourne, Fla.

  • Stephanie Thomas at Sabal Point Elementary School in Longwood. Fla.

  • Kayla Wildenthaler at MILA Elementary School in Merritt Island, Fla.

  • Kimberly Cliatt at Walnut Grove Elementary School in Covington, Ga.

  • Stephanie Schumacher at Mary Lin Elementary School in Atlanta, Ga.

  • N’neka Taylor at Michelle Obama STEM Academy in Hampton, Ga.

Winning projects included aquaponics systems, digital microscopes, LEGO building kits, soapbox derby supplies, a Monarch butterfly garden and supplies to design and build miniature houses.

ABOUT BRPH – BRPH is a technically focused, creative AEC firm dedicated to solving clients’ most challenging problems through architecture, engineering, design, interior design, construction and mission solutions. The firm partners with mission-driven clients in the aerospace, defense, manufacturing, commercial, education, entertainment and hospitality markets to identify gaps in their program delivery, then plans, designs, manages and constructs facilities and solutions that get the job done – beautifully and intelligently. Founded in 1964 to support America’s space program, BRPH is consistently ranked among the nation’s top firms and has completed a wide range of projects across the United States and throughout the world. Headquartered in Melbourne, Florida, BRPH operates regional offices in Jacksonville, Orlando and Boca Raton, Florida; Atlanta; Charleston, South Carolina; Huntsville, Alabama; Seattle; Phoenix; Santa Barbara and Palmdale, California. For more information, visit brph.com.

Morgan Porter Earns Broker Associate Title at Parkside Realty Group

Parkside Realty Group is excited to announce that Morgan Porter has officially passed her broker exam and is now a Broker Associate with the firm. This milestone marks a significant step forward in Morgan’s real estate career and a proud moment for the entire Parkside team.

Morgan brings more than just experience — she brings a mindset of never settling for “that’s not my job.” She goes the extra mile to research, find answers, and make sure her clients feel confident and informed every step of the way. Her passion for learning and growing as an expert is what truly sets her apart, and it’s a big part of why she’s reached this exciting milestone so quickly.

“Morgan brings a natural leadership quality to our team,” said Lauren McPherson, Owner of Parkside Realty Group. “Her drive, professionalism, and genuine care for her clients make her a true asset. We’re proud to see her take this next step and excited for all that’s ahead.”

As a Broker Associate, Morgan will have increased opportunities to lead, mentor, and contribute to the continued success of Parkside Realty Group — all while helping her clients navigate buying and selling with even more confidence and expertise.

For more information about Morgan Porter or ParkSide Realty Group, please visit ParkSide Realty Group at 145 City Place, Palm Coast, FL, or call 386-302-0300. Learn more online at www.palmcoasthomesforsale.net or follow ParkSide Realty Group on Facebook at facebook.com/parksiderealtygroup.

Flagler Free Clinic Receives $100K Donation from Hammock Dunes Cares

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The Flagler Free Clinic is pleased to announce that it has received a $100,000 donation from Hammock Dunes Cares, matching last year’s contribution. The funds were raised during Hammock Dunes Cares’ Rally Auction, a two-week event in late February featuring activities such as tennis, croquet, bocce, a creek porch party, live music, and pickleball. The check presentation occurred on Tuesday, March 18, at Hammock Dunes.

This donation underscores Hammock Dunes Cares’ ongoing commitment to supporting vital healthcare services provided by the Flagler Free Clinic. The clinic will use the funds to continue offering essential medical care to uninsured individuals in Flagler and Volusia counties.

“We are thrilled to announce this significant donation to the Flagler Free Clinic,” said PJ Conniff, President of Hammock Dunes Cares. “This contribution reflects our deep-rooted dedication to enhancing the well-being of our community members. We commend the invaluable work of the Flagler Free Clinic and are honored to play a role in advancing their critical healthcare initiatives.”

Terri Belletto, Executive Director of the Flagler Free Clinic, expressed gratitude: “We are beyond grateful to Hammock Dunes Cares for their extraordinary generosity. This substantial donation will undoubtedly make a profound impact on the clinic’s ability to serve the healthcare needs of the community.”

In 2024, the Florida Senate passed legislation increasing the maximum income eligibility for free clinic services from 200% to 300% of the federal poverty level. This expansion allows individuals and families earning up to $74,580 for a family of three to access the Flagler Free Clinic’s comprehensive, no-cost healthcare services. With a larger pool of eligible patients, the clinic’s need for funding has grown to meet the increased demand for services.

The Flagler Free Clinic strives to maximize the impact of every donation, aiming to transform each dollar received into ten dollars’ worth of comprehensive care. Continued support and involvement are vital to sustaining and enhancing its impact on residents in need.

The Flagler Free Clinic is celebrating 20 years of service with a Charity Golf Tournament on Monday, Oct. 7, 2025, at Hammock Beach’s Ocean Course. Sponsorships are not available for this fun-filled day supporting free healthcare for Flagler County’s uninsured residents.

For more information on the Flagler Free Clinic’s services, how to donate, or to become a volunteer, please contact Terri Belletto, Executive Director, (386) 437-3091or tbelletto@flaglerfreeclinic.org.

2nd Annual Ladybug Returns to St. Augustine Sailing May 3

ST. AUGUSTINE, Florida (April 17, 2025)—The Ladybug Event returns May 3rd through May 4th with more sailing, more learning, and more fun. Hosted by St. Augustine Sailing, the event celebrates the local sailing community and shines a light on equitable access for all. The Ladybug Event is thrilled to announce Tracy Edwards, MBE, as the keynote speaker this year. Edwards is a British sailor who skippered the first all-female crew in the 1989 Whitbread Round the World Yacht Race. The fun kicks off on May 3rd at 9 a.m., at Windward by Camachee Cove Yacht Harbor, 3076 Harbor Drive, in St. Augustine.

“We wanted this event to highlight the sailing community, with a special nod to the growing number of women entering and flourishing in the sport,” says Rose Ann Points, owner, captain, and broker at St. Augustine Sailing. “That’s why we’re thrilled to have a true sailing legend, Tracy Edwards, joining us virtually for an inspiring chat about her life and the ongoing mission of The Maiden Factor Foundation, which empowers girls through education.”

The event begins Saturday, May 3rd, with a full day of workshops and seminars designed for landlubbers all the way to experienced sailors. Topics range from cooking to medical preparedness at sea. Many workshops are free, but donations are graciously accepted. The American Heart Association CPR Certification Course has a small fee associated with the official certification. All Points Yacht Sales, in collaboration with Atlas Yacht Sales and SailTime®, will host a mini-boat show on Saturday only, beginning at 10 a.m. and featuring an array of Jeanneau monohulls and catamarans. SailTime® team members will be on hand to discuss memberships.

The sailing action kicks off Sunday, May 4th, with the widely anticipated Ladybug Race, featuring both performance and cruising classes racing. The race is open to all – no boat? No problem! Freelance sailors can join St. Augustine Sailing’s Crew Program or Women on the Water (WOW!) for an opportunity to crew on one of its boats. The racecourse will take captains and crew out of the marina and north up the Tolomato River, where boats will deftly combat the wind, tide, and each other. For spectators, it will be a chance to see technical maneuvering, teamwork, and skill. Guests can board the Committee Boat or one of St. Augustine Sailing’s comfortable luxury sailing yachts for the best views. On the Water tickets begin at $49 per person and include light refreshments. Racers will be recognized at the Awards Dinner held Sunday evening, hosted by Outer Banks Boil Company, beginning at 6 p.m. Tickets to the dinner are $89 per person. To register for the Ladybug Race, a workshop space, buy spectator tickets, or learn more, visit here.

ABOUT ST. AUGUSTINE SAILING: St. Augustine Sailing Enterprises is a luxury adventure experience that offers a variety of sailing excursions to fit 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. Photos can be found here. For more information on their programs, visit www.sta-sail.com. Follow along on social media @StAugustineSailing

 

Palm Coast City Council Workshop Meeting on April 22, at 9 a.m.

City Council Workshop Meeting on April 22, at 9 a.m.

Topics include the City Annual Investment Report, Palm Harbor Golf Club, YMCA, Strategic Action Plan updates, and more.

Palm Coast—The Palm Coast City Council meets regularly to discuss and vote on official City business. These meetings are open to the public, and Palm Coast residents are strongly encouraged to attend. An increase in public engagement helps to build a stronger sense of community, increase valuable discussions, and decrease division.

The agenda for the City Council Workshop Meeting on Tuesday, April 22, at 9 a.m. will be as follows:

Presentations

The following presentations will be presented:

1. The Financial Services Department will present the Annual Investment Report, providing a detailed summary of all invested funds—including types, amounts, maturity dates, earnings, and yields—along with performance comparisons to benchmarks.

2. The Financial Services Department will present the Year-to-Date Budget results for operating departments for Fiscal Year 2025, October through March.

3. The Parks and Recreation Department will give a presentation on the Palm Harbor Golf Club, including diversifying revenue options, a maintenance analysis, and budget projections. City Council requested the presentation at the January 2, 2025, Business Meeting.

4. The Parks and Recreation Department will give a presentation on the Palm Coast Aquatics Center which will include an overview of the facility’s current operations, programming, and community use. Additionally, the YMCA will give a presentation that will include an overview of their current programming in neighboring communities and a mock-up of a YMCA facility in Palm Coast.

5. The Stormwater and Engineering Department will give a presentation providing an update on the 10-Year Capital Improvement Plan. This will include an update on current projects like the two Fire Stations under construction, recreational enhancements, and roadway improvement projects.

6. The City Administration will give a presentation on the Strategic Action Plan Evaluation Workshop. As part of this annual process, staff conducts one-on-one interviews with each Council Member to review the Strategic Action Plan and ensure current priorities continue to align with the City’s long-term vision, mission, and values. Feedback from these sessions is consolidated into a report comparing individual input to the adopted priorities, and Council is asked to review this information and be prepared to discuss any potential amendments to the plan.

Public Comments will be opened at the beginning and end of the business meeting in accordance with Section 286.0114 Florida Statutes and pursuant to the City Council’s Meeting Policies and Procedures. Each speaker will approach the podium, provide his/her name, and may speak for up to 3 minutes.

Proclamations and award presentations during evening business meetings will now begin at 5:30 p.m., 30 minutes before the meeting start time. Additionally, public comments on non-agenda items will be limited to 30 minutes at the beginning and end of each meeting. This schedule is subject to change due to holidays or other unforeseen circumstances. Residents are encouraged to visit the Palm Coast City Council meeting webpage for the latest schedule and agenda updates.

Business meetings and workshops are open to the public and are streamed live on the City’s YouTube channel. Meeting agendas for all public meetings are posted in advance of each meeting on the City’s website. All agendas can be viewed here.

If you wish to obtain more information regarding the City Council’s agenda, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at 386-986-3713. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons needing assistance to participate in any of these proceedings should contact the City Clerk at 386-986-3713, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

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-