Region Rallies for #CalebStrong in Flagler Beach

By

-

September 7, 2021

cs4 — Fishing Tournament winners pose with Roy Mattson, owner of Roy’s Bait & Seafood and Fishing Guide Service in New Smyrna Beach, organized the fishing tournament fundraiser on Saturday, September 4, 2021 in Flagler Beach to help 17-year old Flagler Beach ocean rescue team member Caleb Struble after an injury on July 19th.

Flagler Beach, FL – It was an unthinkable accident while doing practice drills that landed 17-year old Caleb Struble in long-term recovery and care for fractures to the vertebrae in his neck on July 19^th. But the community he serves as a member of the Flagler Beach Ocean Rescue team, is standing strong behind the young man.

While Caleb works his way through daily therapy at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Georgia with his family, parents Mike and Betty and younger brother Byron there to cheer him on, the community has rallied to keep him in good spirits, as well.

From fundraisers to events, there’s been no shortage of support for his journey back to wellness, and on Saturday, anglers from around the region headed to the Flagler Beach Pier where Caleb was stationed as a lifeguard to try their luck in a fishing tournament, all to benefit the Struble family.

Donations poured in to help raise funds for Caleb Struble, the 17-year old Matanzas High School student and member of the Flagler Beach ocean rescue team who was injured during a practicing training drill on July 19th, and fellow lifeguard agencies created a special gift basket for Caleb to cheer him on.

Organizer Roy Mattson, current owner of Roy’s Bait & Seafood and Fishing Guide Service in New Smyrna Beach, and former owner of the Flagler Beach Pier’s bait shop, pulled together the fishing tournament and a myriad of stellar raffle prizes from more than 50 businesses across Flagler County and the surrounding communities, to raise more than $2,000 in a few short hours.

“I’ve worked in public service all my life and we all stick together,” said Mattson. “It’s a brotherhood of police, fire, EMS, all public service providers and lifeguards are part of that group. When one of us gets hurt somebody has to step up to the plate and here was my opportunity to do it.”

Gusty northeast winds kept catches light, but anglers were undeterred. At the end of the tournament Flagler County’s Miguel Archundia took home the top prize with a one pound ladyfish as his catch.

Miguel Archundia heads out with sweet swag after winning the fishing tournament hosted by Roy Mattson, owner of Roy’s Bait & Seafood and Fishing Guide Service in New Smyrna Beach, on Saturday, September 4, 2021 in Flagler Beach to help 17-year old Flagler Beach ocean rescue team member Caleb Struble after an injury on July 19th.

“We still have probably 75 fishermen on the pier trying and we’ve got people coming up buying raffle tickets and supporting the family in every way,” said Mattson. “Everybody in the community has come out to help in every way possible.”

On hand to live-stream the event so Caleb and his family could watch remotely, Beth Boyles a close family friend of the Struble family, was enthusiastic about the generosity of those who have never met Caleb, but are willing to help.

Beth Boyles and Roy Mattson, owner of Roy’s Bait & Seafood and Fishing Guide Service in New Smyrna Beach, organized the fishing tournament fundraiser on Saturday, September 4, 2021 in Flagler Beach to help 17-year old Flagler Beach ocean rescue team member Caleb Struble after an injury on July 19th.

“I am literally blown away. I was just telling Caleb’s mom Betty that it just makes my heart so full to see the love and support, and it’s the same with them. I talk to them and we’re just blown away by how many wonderful people are out there,” she said.

Boyles provides frequent updates to the community on Caleb’s progress through the Flagler Beach for Friends Facebook page which has included major milestones like the removal of his neck brace after 8 weeks and small movements in his hands.

“Caleb is just a one-in-a-million. They just don’t make them like him, he’s amazing,” gushed Boyles. “He’s a very strong-willed young man and has a great attitude, and that’s why we know he’s going to make a full recovery,” she said. “We’re really, really hopeful for him.”

Facilitating the GoFundMe page, Boyles says over $20,000 has been raised to help the Struble family. Cash/check donations are also being managed by the Flagler Strong 501c3 and go directly to the family while they put life on hiatus and focus their full attention on Caleb’s recovery.

Roy Mattson, owner of Roy’s Bait & Seafood and Fishing Guide Service in New Smyrna Beach, organized the fishing tournament fundraiser on Saturday, September 4, 2021 in Flagler Beach to help 17-year old Flagler Beach ocean rescue team member Caleb Struble after an injury on July 19th.

“We’re trying to raise money for daily expenses because mom and dad are not able to work right now. We know that he’s going to be there at least until November, and that could be extended. We know he’s going to have intense therapy when he gets to come home, so it’s going to be a really long journey for the family,” said Boyles, who says home renovations will also be among the family’s future needs.

Flagler Beach Recreation Director Tom Gillin watched in awe on Saturday, continually struck by the kindness of the community he serves, to help one of their own.

“The response has been amazing. The lifeguard community, the Flagler Beach community, the outside community. We’ve got other lifeguard agencies – Volusia, St. Johns, Duval, being supportive. The whole fishing community – there’s a bucket up there and even though they’re not in the tournament, they’re throwing in 20’s and 100 dollar bills. It’s amazing and heartwarming,” said Gillin.

“We’re always talking about division and people are strong with their opinions one way or another. This goes to show that above and beyond that, we’re all one Flagler family here.”

Fishing tournament organizer Roy Mattson and Flagler Beach Recreation Director Tom Gillin pause for a moment as Beth Boyles continues to direct activities during the fundraiser for 17-year old Matanzas High School student and ocean rescue team member Caleb Struble on Saturday, September 4, 2021.

Gillin says it’s been Caleb’s sunny personality and genuine kindness that has touched more hearts and lives with his story, and his determination is an inspiration to his teammates and the community as a whole.

“If attitude, age and energy is going to help on his behalf, he’s going to do alright and get through this,” said Gillin with optimism. “He’s just a super kid with something nice and positive every day he comes in here. Everyone says the same thing. He brightens up everybody and that positivity is contagious.”

A fundraiser is planned at Tortugas Florida Kitchen Bar & Grill this October. To lend a hand, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/caleb-struble-fb-lifeguard-recovery-journey

To send Caleb a card:

Caleb Struble
c/o Shepherd Center
2020 Peachtree Rd. NW
Atlanta, GA. 30309

CRT Opens 11th Season with Billie Holiday On the Mic

By

Danielle Anderson

-

September 6, 2021

Legendary jazz songstress Billie Holiday is set to take the stage with a six show run at the City Repertory Theatre starting September 17^th.

Yes, you read that right.

Embodying ‘Lady Day’ herself, vocalist Laniece Fagundes will star in the season opener for the avant-garde theatre alongside musician Ben Beck for what the duo call ‘a peek behind the curtain’.

Laniece Fagundes and Ben Beck in “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill”. Photo: Mike Kitaif.

Loosely based on Holiday’s life, the Broadway hit was inspired by Holiday’s performance at Emerson’s Bar and Grill in Philadelphia shortly before her death in 1959.

“The show is a performance, it’s a live concert, one of the last performances. It’s cool because she tells a bunch of different stories about her experiences, her childhood, growing up and it’s got some of her greatest songs interwoven,” shares Fagundes

A vocalist and piano teacher, Fagundes puts two decades of training into the role that CRT artistic director John Sbordone has held for her for nearly 10 years.

“The first time John brought it to me, it’s not a show that I found I wanted to do. At the time I was very young and it didn’t work,” said Fagundes. “Now we’ve come full circle. I’ve embraced it and connected with her in reading her story.”

A formally trained musician, Beck accompanies Fagundes on the piano, and has challenged the vocalist to level up.

“I tell Ben all the time I love working with him because he makes you want to be better, greater,” she said. “I don’t know if he goes into it with that intention, but it is naturally what occurs. It’s like an energy or vibe – achieving greatness.”

“And John, you have to appreciate when he does this, he doesn’t accept what is a surface layer, if it’s not deep enough. If he feels like you can give more, he’s going to pull it out of you,” she said.

Capturing Holiday’s essence, the soul of her music, Sbordone says Fagundes has exceeded his expectations.

“If I have really talented people I’m going to find ways of letting them stretch and do things they might not think they can do,” he said. “That’s part of what City Repertory Theatre is about, our founding node, to get the best performers and try to stretch their talents.”

Serving as the show’s musical director and taking on the role of Jimmy Powers, Beck says he is enjoying the opportunity to showcase his craft while portraying the comfort and conflict dynamic between the characters.

“It’s a fun ‘pull back the curtain’ moment for me as a musician because I do this in real life. I get with people and they sing a set of songs, and things happen in live performance. It’s an interesting piece to be able to let other people see that relationship between pianist and singer, and have that transparency you wouldn’t know about if you were literally just going to a club and enjoying the music at it was happening,” he said.

Returning to their home theatre at City Marketplace in Palm Coast, the cast is looking forward to evenings in the intimate theatre, as Lanie Robertson’s “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill” opens the breakout 11^th season for City Repertory Theatre.

“I think this is going to be among the very best things we’ve ever done here because they are so good,” said Sbordone.

After 10 Years of Delight CRT Begins Ascension into the Next Decade

From musicals to comedies and everything in between, the full 2021-22 season is an emotional roller coaster, and Sbordone wouldn’t have it any other way.

It’s the adding of another layer of depth after 10 years. A maturing that doesn’t grow up but grows out as the theatre’s cast expands their abilities to meet the new, challenging roles that have defined the CRT brand.

Describing the season, Sbordone knows each one as well as he knows his own children. Including “Urinetown”, a show that “will have you laughing ‘til you cry”, according to the playbill, one can easily imagine Miley Cyrus swinging through the air on her wrecking ball.

“Urinetown is a brilliant parody, a fun show in which we can really get to use our theatre because we can climb the walls, we can interact over the audience, and do all the magnificent things a small, intimate venue allows us to do,” said Sbordone. “It’s a solid cast and the music sounds great already.”

There’s the poignant moment when talking about the witty, otherworldly comedy “Blithe Spirit”, featuring Annie Gaybis, Earl Levine, Victoria Page and Julia Truilo.

“We’re doing it as a stage reading,” he said. “It’s a wonderful script that we’re dedicating to Anne Kraft, who passed last spring and was one of our very, very favorite people and supporters.”

Les Ober, director of last season’s “The Crucible” success returns to debut “Wait Until Dark”, an edgy suspense drama, before the celebration of Women’s History Month brings ‘four badass ladies’ to the stage as “The Revolutionists” with Sue Pope, Phillipa Rose, Sharon Resnikoff and Leigh Ann Singleton leading the charge.

Closing out the season with “Waiting for Godot”, Sbordone says Broadway stars Earl Levine and Victoria Page began rehearsing at home over COVID to keep entertained, and now patrons of City Repertory Theatre will be have an opportunity to experience the mind-bending existential comedy by Samuel Beckett.

“It’s one of the great plays of the 20^th century.”

CRT’s Artistic Director and Co-Founder John Sbordone. Photo/Mike Kitaif

Two additional shows are being added during the season, including a musical revue courtesy of MTI’s “All Together Now!” initiative. Sbordone is thrilled by the opportunity after a challenging year for the arts and culture industry.

“What MTI (Music Theatre International) has done, realizing so many nonprofits has such a horrible year because of COVID, opened up their doors and have allowed a weekend, to use numbers from their vast Broadway categories, free, and so we are doing a weekend, November 12^th. Agata Sokolska, who is organizing this for me, has assembled really great voices from Orlando to Jacksonville, so we’re going to have 14 or 15 just brilliant numbers,” he said.

The second addition to the show bill will bring “The Mountaintop” to City Repertory Theatre in honor of Black History Month next February.

“It is a two character show that imagines the evening before Martin Luther King, Jr. is assassinated. It’s Martin Luther King, Jr. and one of the workers at the motel. It’s a brilliant piece.”

Preparing for a season that reaches nearly every demographic and interest, Sbordone sees the embrace of groundbreaking theatre by experienced talent and the next generation of actors as a formula for continued success.

Through the Years, A Cast of Characters: John Pope, Sharon Resnikoff, Beau Wade, Sue Pope and Anne Kraft in 2017’s “Other Desert Cities” is a look at the tight-knit family of City Repertory Theatre. Photo/Danielle Anderson

“I think that we’ve met so many of our goals. We were very fortunate to have a season last year as a tenth season, and we’re just ready and willing to launch into the new one,” he said.

All actors on City Repertory Theatre stage have been vaccinated. Full seating will be permitted, and audience members are asked to wear a mask during the performances.

“Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill”

September 17-26, 2021

Fri, Sat at 7:30 p.m., Sun at 3:00 p.m.

Tickets: $15/Students, $30/Adults

Presented by City Repertory Theatre

160 Cypress Point Parkway, Suite B207 in City Marketplace

Palm Coast, FL 32164

386-585-9415

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lady-day-at-emersons-bar-grill-tickets-167981965581

The Big Five … Labor Day Edition

By

Danielle Anderson

-

September 6, 2021

139 years ago the first Labor Day was celebrated. Labor looks a bit different today than it did in 1882, but ask anyone when the last time they had a full day off from work, or a meaningful day off from work and you may find them scratching their heads to remember.

The United States rounds out the Top 10 in overworked countries according to Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), alongside nations like Mexico and South Korea, with 11.1% of Americans working more than 50 hours per week.

So as we recognize Labor Day this Monday, here are a few fast facts on how this national ‘day off’, came to be, and a few fun facts that if you’re working today too, may give you a giggle.

Who invented Labor Day?

Rumor has it, Peter J. McGuire, a carpenter and labor union leader, was the person who came up with the idea for Labor Day. He thought American workers should be honored with their own day. He proposed his idea to New York’s Central Labor Union early in 1882, and they thought the holiday was a good idea, too.

The Other Maguire

When was the first Labor Day and Why?

The Very First Labor Day
September 5, 1882

The very first Labor Day was held on a Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City. The day was celebrated with a picnic, concert and speeches. Ten thousand workers marched in a parade from City Hall to Union Square.

Soon after that first celebration, the holiday was moved to the first Monday in September, the day we still honor. Congress passed legislation making Labor Day a national holiday in 1894. Labor Day is not just a day to celebrate the accomplishments of workers; for some people, it is also a day to talk about their concerns and to discuss ways to get better working conditions and salaries.

Colorful Commentary – New York Daily Tribune: September 7, 1882

When Did the U.S. Government formally recognize Labor Day?

On this date, President Grover Cleveland signed S. 730 into law declaring Labor Day a national holiday. Since 1882, Labor Day had been celebrated at the local and state level. From 1887 to 1894, 23 states enacted a Labor Day holiday. But according to the Washington Post, the celebration alternated between the first day of September, the first Monday of September, and the first Saturday of September depending on the location. After being introduced in August 1893, S. 730 sat for ten months without debate in the Senate. Once Senate leaders brought it to the floor, however, the bill quickly passed. Four days later, on June 26, 1894, the Chairman of the House Labor Committee, Lawrence McGann of Illinois, began consideration of the Senate bill in the House, replacing an earlier House version sponsored by Amos Cummings of New York. The legislation passed with no objection and was sent to the President.

What’s the deal with wearing white after Labor Day?

This old tradition goes back to the late Victorian era, where it was a fashion faux pas to wear any white clothing after the summer officially ended on Labor Day. The tradition isn’t really followed anymore. EmilyPost.com explains the logic behind the fashion trend – white indicated you were still in vacation mode at your summer cottage.

Did you know? Labor Day Marks the End of Hot Dog Season. How will you be cooking yours today?

A new survey commissioned by the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council (NHDSC) and The North American Meat Institute, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, showed that 73 percent of Americans believe that a cookout is not complete without hot dogs. After all, hot dogs are an important part of American culture, summer celebrations, travel and grilling traditions. During the peak season from Memorial Day until Labor Day, Americans enjoy an estimated seven billion hot dogs.

There are, of course, many ways to cook a hot dog, but the survey showed that most Americans prefer their hot dogs straight off the grill. In fact, 75 percent say grilling is their favorite way to cook a hot dog, far exceeding other cooking methods such as over a campfire (9 percent), boiling (6 percent), steaming (3 percent), frying in a pan (2 percent), or microwaving (2 percent).

Get More Labor Day History Straight from the Horse’s Mouth.

Featured Photo: U.S. Department of Labor

Super Saturday Launches Super September Cleanups In Flagler County

By

Danielle Anderson

-

September 5, 2021

It was a double header on Saturday for cleanups across Flagler County as volunteers headed to both parks and inland waterways in Palm Coast and beachside to Flagler Beach to help spruce up the community.

Flagler Beach

It’s become a routine for volunteers across Flagler County who make it a monthly mission to help clean up Flagler Beach and the surrounding community. For the Fabulous Females of Palm Coast it was their second month in a row lending a hand and the gals rewarded themselves with breakfast and view at the Funky Pelican after dropping off their trash at pier receptacles.

“I live in Ormond by the Sea but I come to Flagler quite a bit because I like the pace and the atmosphere,” said Fabulous Female Sandy Leung. “We just started getting involved with the cleaning of the beach because I think it’s really important to keep it safe, clean and beautiful.”

They were joined by members of the JROTC from Flagler Palm Coast High School whose monthly commitment the Flagler Beach All-Stars rely on, along with others including the FPC Bulldogs 4H and FPC Bulldogs Robotics teams, Girl Scouts, and the Flagler County SWAT team.

Battling against cigarettes, vaping and the like, Students Working Against Tobacco team member Carolyn Sterger has made it a personal mission to clean up the cigarette butts from the beach while raising awareness.

Flagler Palm Coast High School JROTC students bring in a haul after taking part in the First Saturday cleanups in Flagler Beach hosted by the Flagler Beach All-Stars.

“Being at the beach today and seeing a bunch of cigarettes on the floor is really sad because it gets to the beach and kills a bunch of marine life,” said the Flagler Palm Coast High School junior. “It’s really important to get the word out there about how bad tobacco is and how much it’s killing, and not to start young.”

Flagler Beach Mayor Suzie Johnston says the city appreciates the help of volunteers, especially youth, as they build a culture of environmental awareness, while hosting the cleanup each first Saturday of the month through the All-Stars.

“I think that there’s enough trash out here that it doesn’t help alleviate any city people (labor) or taxes because the trash keeps coming,” said Johnston. “It’s very important that the kids come out because it’s instilling the values to keep picking up trash instead of walking by it, to pick it up. It also promotes community and fellowship.”

Palm Coast

Across the county, it was the City of Palm Coast’s 14^th annual Intracoastal Waterway Cleanup, and Dylan Long set out to tackle the trash at Waterfront Park on Colbert Lane.

Dylan Long takes part in the 14th Annual Intracoastal Waterway Cleanup at Waterfront Park on September 4, 2021.

“I find the environment very important. It’s also just nice to have pretty parks that are not full of trash,” he said, appreciating the forward thinking environmental approach taken by the City of Palm Coast to preserve the natural beauty of the community for the future.

“I drive an electric vehicle, for example,” he said. “Definitely clean up trash, and just a lot of green programs that encourage innovation and other sustainable technologies.”

Walking the trails early, Nathan Cross was joined by Lane Ashby, now in his fourth year participating. The team only found a single piece of litter each, and Cross was surprised.

Volunteers cleanup the parks in Palm Coast for the 14th Annual Intracoastal Waterway Cleanup on September 4, 2021, including Lane Ashby and Nathan Cross (center).

“We walked down these trails, but most people who use trails enjoy recreation so they’re not going to be the folks that are here throwing trash into the environment,” said Cross. “We wanted to fulfill our role, but at the same time it’s encouraging to see there’s not a lot of trash out here.”

The pair left to clean up the roadways deemed in need of assistance.

“We’re going to go down to the road where people are riding by in cars and it’s easy for them to sling trash out the window, and clean that area up,” he said.

Volunteers cleanup the parks in Palm Coast for the 14th Annual Intracoastal Waterway Cleanup on September 4, 2021.

The city announced 252 volunteers helped remove 1,600 pounds of trash and debris throughout the morning’s cleanup.

The Super September Cleanups culminate with the Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup on September 18, 2021 from 8 am to 11 am. Organized by the Friends of A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway in partnership with community stakeholders in Flagler and St. Johns counties, volunteers can join the 72-mile cleanup effort by visiting https://scenica1a.org/event/international-coastal-cleanup-2021/.

Florida Health in Flagler Updates Testing and Vaccination Schedule for Labor Day Holiday

By

Flagler News Weekly

-

September 5, 2021

Bunnell, FL – The Florida Department of Health in Flagler County (DOH-Flagler) has modified its COVID-19 testing schedule at the Flagler County Fairgrounds for the Labor Day holiday. Testing will not be offered either Saturday, September 4 or Monday, September 6.

Priority will be given to any students, faculty and school staff of public or private schools in Flagler County, followed by the general public, who should schedule testing appointments by calling 386-437-7350 ext. 0.

All individuals and families should consider the following when testing with DOH-Flagler.

Testing should take place at least 3 to 5 days after exposure. Testing sooner than this may result in false negatives.
Plan ahead and expect long lines. Bring snacks and drinks in the car, as well as books or toys to keep kids entertained while waiting for your turn. Note: you will park and walk into the Cattleman’s Hall where testing takes place. This is NOT a drive- through test site.
Wear a mask inside the testing facility. Should you test positive, you may be asked to exit the facility and wait for the rest of your party outside to avoid transmission.
DOH staff and volunteers are working extended hours to keep pace with the significant demand for testing. We are expanding our team to help with testing, contact tracing and case investigation, and appreciate your patience during this challenging time.
It will take time for case investigators and contact tracers to reach you when/if you or your child tests positive for COVID-19. You or your child will need to isolate for 10 days from the onset of symptoms. Take initiative to protect your loved ones by speaking with family members and other close contacts so they can get tested and watch for symptoms.
If you are identified as a close contact to someone who tests positive, you may not hear from the health department if resources are not available.
- If you have been vaccinated (two weeks after your final dose) you will not need to quarantine if you do not have symptoms.
- If you have symptoms, get tested as soon as possible.
- Students will need to quarantine at least four days after the date of exposure.

The weekday testing schedule for September 4 through 12 follows:

Saturday, September 4 CLOSED

Sunday, September 5 8AM to 12PM Flagler County Fairgrounds

Monday, September 6 CLOSED for Labor Day Holiday

Tuesday, September 7 8AM to 12 noon Flagler County Fairgrounds

Wednesday, September 8 8AM to 12 noon Flagler County Fairgrounds

Thursday, September 9 8AM to 12 noon Flagler County Fairgrounds

Friday, September 10 8AM to 12 noon Flagler County Fairgrounds

Saturday, September 11 CLOSED

Sunday, September 12 CLOSED

As a reminder, the health department does not offer testing for travel verification or provide return-to-work notes.

Vaccinations continue to be offered at 301 Dr. Carter Blvd three afternoons a week – Monday (except Labor Day), Tuesday and Wednesday from 3:30 to 6:00PM. Appointments are preferred; Walk-ins are welcome.

The health department is awaiting additional guidance for the administration of booster doses and expects to add vaccinations to its operation at the Flagler County Fairgrounds later this month. Details will be shared when plans are finalized. Currently, CVS, Walgreens, Publix and Walmart are offering boosters to immunocompromised individuals.

For more information about COVID-19 vaccination and testing locally, please visit flagler.floridahealth.gov. For testing and vaccine appointments, please call 386-437-7350 ext. 0 weekdays between 8AM and 4:30PM.

About the Florida Department of Health

The Florida Department of Health, 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 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: Flagler County Health Department, Gretchen Smith

Communications Manager & Public Information Officer

Palm Coast to Host Intercoastal Cleanup Saturday, September 4th

By

Flagler News Weekly

-

September 3, 2021

September 4 – 14^th Annual Intracoastal Waterway Cleanup – Saturday, September 4, 8am-1pm, supply pickup August 30-September 3 at Palm Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Pkwy. NE. The City is seeking volunteers to protect and enjoy nature by removing trash within their developments or along City paths, walkways, and waterways at the annual Intracoastal Waterway Cleanup. Boaters can work in saltwater canals and Intracoastal waters and walkers can clear the paths and trails alongside the waterway. Free, but pre-registration is encouraged at www.parksandrec.fun/events. Registration includes a t-shirt, trash bags, gloves, and safety sheet. More info: 386-986-2323.

456th Founder’s Day Celebration Set for Saturday, September 4th

By

Flagler News Weekly

-

September 2, 2021

Additional Details Here

Photo: St. Augustine Catholic/Ken McCray Photography

‘Flagler Forward’ Transit Development Plan Seeks Public Input on 10 Year Plan

By

Flagler News Weekly

-

September 2, 2021

The University of South Florida’s Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR) is collaborating with Flagler County and the “Flagler Forward” campaign.

Flagler Forward is a Transit Development Plan (TDP) that will serve as county’s planning, development, and operational guidance document for a ten-year planning horizon. The plan is intended to support the development of an effective multimodal transportation system.

The TDP serves as the basis for defining public transit needs, which is a prerequisite for receipt of state and federal funds. The TDP preparation process must include opportunities for the public’s input to update and refine the transit provider’s mission, goals, objectives, and service alternatives.

Please take a moment to complete the survey at the link below, or visit the Flagler County website at https://www.flaglercounty.gov/departments/transportation. Your input is much appreciated!

Survey Link: https://usf.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_djpvk7xOAek4DkO

Flagler County Sends Resources to Louisiana In Ida’s Aftermath

By

Flagler News Weekly

-

September 1, 2021

August 31, 2021 – Flagler County’s Suzanne Eubanks on Tuesday was deployed to Louisiana in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida as part of the Northeast Florida Region 3 All Hazards Incident Management Team.

“At this time we only know that we are going into Louisiana but have not been told exactly where,” said Eubanks, who will be working as Logistics Section Chief. “We are traveling today, and will move into the impacted area tomorrow.”

Eubanks works for Fire Rescue as an accountant, but is no stranger to deploying during disasters. She has been deployed five other times to the following locations: Holmes and Bay Counties in 2018 for Hurricane Michael; Monroe County in 2017 for Hurricane Irma; Duval County in 2015 for missing child Lonnie Barton; South Carolina in 2015 for flooding; and, Lee County in 2005 for Hurricane Wilma.

“The Logistics Section Chief is a key position within the Incident Management Team,” said Emergency Management Director Jonathan Lord. “They oversee and coordinate a variety of items for the response including field facilities, transportation, communication, supplies, equipment, fuel, food, and medical support.”

Eubanks will be deployed for two weeks, and is required to be self-sustaining for several days.

“We have a great staff here,” said Fire Rescue Chief Mike Tucker. “It’s not surprising Suzanne will be doing what she can to help the residents of Louisiana.”

Written by: Julie Murphy, MPIO, Flagler County

Public Information Officer

Longest Serving U.S Border Patrol Chief To Open Flagler Tiger Bay Club Fall Season for 9/11 Commemorative Program

By

Danielle Anderson

-

September 1, 2021

Michael Fisher - Flagler Tiger Bay Club September 2019 — Michael Fischer

Flagler County, FL – Some come for the networking, some come for the speakers. Over the past several years, the Flagler Tiger Bay Club has consistently brought in distinguished speakers to address cutting edge topics of local, state and national significance, while connecting civic and business leaders from across the region.

Marking the third anniversary of the nonpartisan political club last Thursday evening, it was the long awaited ‘Big Reveal’ midway through the Social by the Sea winetasting at the Hammock Beach Resort that brought members and guests to a standstill in anticipation.

Unveiling the club’s fall lineup of speakers Flagler Tiger Bay Club president Greg Davis opened the program by announcing the return of Chief Michael J. Fisher for a powerful two-part 9/11 event to commemorate the 20^th anniversary of September 11^th attacks on America.

With the distinction of being the longest serving border chief in U.S. history, Fisher will share his perspective on the events of the day, and the decisions made that have impacted the nation over the past 20 years, including the formation of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Greg Davis. President, Flagler Tiger Bay Club

“I think that’s what we’re supposed to do as an organization and it also goes to our mission of developing the next generation of leaders,” said Davis of the two-part special program.

“I’m always struck by the fact that the Gen Z’ers weren’t born when 9/11 happened though they are continually impacted by it,” he said. “I think that Mike is the right speaker to make things real world (for the youth) and bring it forward to how things are being impacted today. It’s going to be an outstanding program.”

The Flagler Tiger Bay Club will host Fisher for the September luncheon meeting for members and guests on September 8^th at the Hammock Beach Resort, starting at 11:30 a.m. Later in the day, in partnership with the Flagler Auditorium, Chief Fisher will be the guest speaker for a free public event at the Flagler Auditorium, starting at 4:00 p.m.

“We were so excited to be approached by the Flagler Tiger Bay Club to host this speaker,” said Flagler Auditorium director Amelia Fulmer.

Amelia Fulmer. Director, Flagler Auditorium

“Our students have done 9/11 programs for many years at the high school but as time has gone on, it’s kind of like Pearl Harbor for a lot of our students. To bring a speaker that’s actually lived it, breathed it and had a lot to do with what’s happened over the last 20 years, to be involved in that is a spectacular opportunity.”

Davis continued by announcing the full Fall 2021 season featuring guest speakers ranging from President and CEO of the Homeland Security and Defense Business Council, the Honorable Rafael Borras, and Florida Representative and future Speaker of the Florida House Paul Renner, to CNN Commentator Alice Stewart, Brad Swanson, President and CEO of Florida Internet & Television, and Florida Transportation Commissioner Rusty Roberts.

“We’re excited to have a number of nationally recognized speakers who’ve had extensive careers in government and public policy that will be covering a wide range of important issues such as national security, homeland security, the 2022 campaigns, and the impact of the massive infrastructure bill and what that may mean for Florida in terms of transportation and digital infrastructure,” said Flagler Tiger Bay Club speaker committee chairman Dr. Joe Saviak.

“Once again, Flagler Tiger Bay continues to provide a wonderful public service to the community by bringing those speakers here so we can directly meet them, hear from them and learn from them,” he said.

Legendary jazz songstress Billie Holiday is set to take the stage with a six show run at the City Repertory Theatre starting September 17th.

Yes, you read that right.

Embodying ‘Lady Day’ herself, vocalist Laniece Fagundes will star in the season opener for the avant-garde theatre alongside musician Ben Beck for what the duo call ‘a peek behind the curtain’.

Loosely based on Holiday’s life, the Broadway hit was inspired by Holiday’s performance at Emerson’s Bar and Grill in Philadelphia shortly before her death in 1959.

“The show is a performance, it’s a live concert, one of the last performances. It’s cool because she tells a bunch of different stories about her experiences, her childhood, growing up and it’s got some of her greatest songs interwoven,” shares Fagundes

A vocalist and piano teacher, Fagundes puts two decades of training into the role that CRT artistic director John Sbordone has held for her for nearly 10 years.

“The first time John brought it to me, it’s not a show that I found I wanted to do. At the time I was very young and it didn’t work,” said Fagundes. “Now we’ve come full circle. I’ve embraced it and connected with her in reading her story.”

A formally trained musician, Beck accompanies Fagundes on the piano, and has challenged the vocalist to level up.

“I tell Ben all the time I love working with him because he makes you want to be better, greater,” she said. “I don’t know if he goes into it with that intention, but it is naturally what occurs. It’s like an energy or vibe – achieving greatness.”

“And John, you have to appreciate when he does this, he doesn’t accept what is a surface layer, if it’s not deep enough. If he feels like you can give more, he’s going to pull it out of you,” she said.

Capturing Holiday’s essence, the soul of her music, Sbordone says Fagundes has exceeded his expectations.

“If I have really talented people I’m going to find ways of letting them stretch and do things they might not think they can do,” he said. “That’s part of what City Repertory Theatre is about, our founding node, to get the best performers and try to stretch their talents.”

Serving as the show’s musical director and taking on the role of Jimmy Powers, Beck says he is enjoying the opportunity to showcase his craft while portraying the comfort and conflict dynamic between the characters.

Returning to their home theatre at City Marketplace in Palm Coast, the cast is looking forward to evenings in the intimate theatre, as Lanie Robertson’s “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill” opens the breakout 11th season for City Repertory Theatre.

“I think this is going to be among the very best things we’ve ever done here because they are so good,” said Sbordone.

After 10 Years of Delight CRT Begins Ascension into the Next Decade

From musicals to comedies and everything in between, the full 2021-22 season is an emotional roller coaster, and Sbordone wouldn’t have it any other way.

It’s the adding of another layer of depth after 10 years. A maturing that doesn’t grow up but grows out as the theatre’s cast expands their abilities to meet the new, challenging roles that have defined the CRT brand.

Describing the season, Sbordone knows each one as well as he knows his own children. Including “Urinetown”, a show that “will have you laughing ‘til you cry”, according to the playbill, one can easily imagine Miley Cyrus swinging through the air on her wrecking ball.

There’s the poignant moment when talking about the witty, otherworldly comedy “Blithe Spirit”, featuring Annie Gaybis, Earl Levine, Victoria Page and Julia Truilo.

“We’re doing it as a stage reading,” he said. “It’s a wonderful script that we’re dedicating to Anne Kraft, who passed last spring and was one of our very, very favorite people and supporters.”

“It’s one of the great plays of the 20th century.”

Two additional shows are being added during the season, including a musical revue courtesy of MTI’s “All Together Now!” initiative. Sbordone is thrilled by the opportunity after a challenging year for the arts and culture industry.

The second addition to the show bill will bring “The Mountaintop” to City Repertory Theatre in honor of Black History Month next February.

“It is a two character show that imagines the evening before Martin Luther King, Jr. is assassinated. It’s Martin Luther King, Jr. and one of the workers at the motel. It’s a brilliant piece.”

Preparing for a season that reaches nearly every demographic and interest, Sbordone sees the embrace of groundbreaking theatre by experienced talent and the next generation of actors as a formula for continued success.

“I think that we’ve met so many of our goals. We were very fortunate to have a season last year as a tenth season, and we’re just ready and willing to launch into the new one,” he said.

All actors on City Repertory Theatre stage have been vaccinated. Full seating will be permitted, and audience members are asked to wear a mask during the performances.

“Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill”

September 17-26, 2021

Fri, Sat at 7:30 p.m., Sun at 3:00 p.m.

Tickets: $15/Students, $30/Adults

Presented by City Repertory Theatre

160 Cypress Point Parkway, Suite B207 in City Marketplace

Palm Coast, FL 32164

386-585-9415

139 years ago the first Labor Day was celebrated. Labor looks a bit different today than it did in 1882, but ask anyone when the last time they had a full day off from work, or a meaningful day off from work and you may find them scratching their heads to remember.

The United States rounds out the Top 10 in overworked countries according to Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), alongside nations like Mexico and South Korea, with 11.1% of Americans working more than 50 hours per week.

So as we recognize Labor Day this Monday, here are a few fast facts on how this national ‘day off’, came to be, and a few fun facts that if you’re working today too, may give you a giggle.

Who invented Labor Day?

When was the first Labor Day and Why?

The Very First Labor Day September 5, 1882

The very first Labor Day was held on a Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City. The day was celebrated with a picnic, concert and speeches. Ten thousand workers marched in a parade from City Hall to Union Square.

When Did the U.S. Government formally recognize Labor Day?

What’s the deal with wearing white after Labor Day?

Did you know? Labor Day Marks the End of Hot Dog Season. How will you be cooking yours today?

Get More Labor Day History Straight from the Horse’s Mouth.

The University of South Florida’s Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR) is collaborating with Flagler County and the “Flagler Forward” campaign.

Flagler Forward is a Transit Development Plan (TDP) that will serve as county’s planning, development, and operational guidance document for a ten-year planning horizon. The plan is intended to support the development of an effective multimodal transportation system.

Please take a moment to complete the survey at the link below, or visit the Flagler County website at https://www.flaglercounty.gov/departments/transportation. Your input is much appreciated!

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

Legendary jazz songstress Billie Holiday is set to take the stage with a six show run at the City Repertory Theatre starting September 17^th.

Returning to their home theatre at City Marketplace in Palm Coast, the cast is looking forward to evenings in the intimate theatre, as Lanie Robertson’s “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill” opens the breakout 11^th season for City Repertory Theatre.

“It’s one of the great plays of the 20^th century.”

The Very First Labor Day
September 5, 1882