Alan Ritchson Adds Muscle as Honorary Pace Car Driver for the DAYTONA 500

By

Stephanie Harris

-

February 12, 2025

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Feb. 11, 2025) – Daytona International Speedway announced today that Alan Ritchson will add some muscle as the honorary pace car driver for the DAYTONA 500. The actor and producer will lead the field to green for the 67^th running of The Great American Race.

“Alan Ritchson serving as our honorary pace car driver for the DAYTONA 500 is sure to add strength to our star-studded dignitaries during pre-race festivities,” said Frank Kelleher, President of Daytona International Speedway. “Alan knows all about high stakes and performing in clutch time as he does in the Prime Video hit series Reacher, and we’re looking forward to him leading the Cup Series drivers to the green flag.”

Ritchson portrays the title character in the Amazon Original series Reacher, which debuted in 2022 on Prime Video. In the show, Reacher is a former U.S. Army military policeman with brute strength, intellect and abilities. The action-crime series is based on the Jack Reacher book series by Lee Child and each season is based off a different Jack Reacher novel. Season 3 is set to premiere on Feb. 20, 2025, on Prime Video, and was renewed for a fourth season back in October.

Ritchson will soon return for his titular role and as an executive producer on the third season of Reacher. He has wrapped production on War Machine for Netflix and is further set to reprise his role in the untitled 11th installment of Universal Pictures’ Fast and Furious blockbuster franchise. Under his first-look film deal and separate three-picture deal for acting with Amazon MGM Studios, Ritchson is set to produce and star in the Adam Shankman-directed holiday comedy The Man With The Bag alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in addition to the producing and headlining the film adaptation of Nicholas Sparks’ latest bestseller, Counting Miracles.

“It’s an honor to be named the honorary pace car driver for the DAYTONA 500,” said Ritchson. “I hope the drivers are feeling extra competitive this year because there’s no way I’m ditching after the first lap. My dream has always been to win the DAYTONA 500. This is my year.”

Ritchson will be driving the 2025 Blazer EV SS, announced on Monday by Chevrolet as the pace vehicle for The Great American Race.

The action begins on Wednesday, Feb. 12, with DAYTONA 500 Qualifying Presented by Busch Light, setting the field for the Duel At DAYTONA, which occurs the following night on Thursday, Feb. 13, where drivers will battle it out for a spot in the coveted Great American Race.

The season-opening races for all three NASCAR national series as well as the ARCA Menards Series kick off on Friday, Feb. 14, starting with the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Fresh From Florida 250. Saturday, Feb. 15, will feature an action-packed double-header with the ARCA Menards Series Ride the ‘Dente 200 Presented by Chili’s followed by the NASCAR Xfinity Series United Rentals 300.

Then Sunday, Feb. 16, directly following GRAMMY® Award Winning Artist Pitbull’s pre-race show, the USAF Thunderbirds will perform their flyover, preparing both fans and drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series for an intense battle in the 67^th running of the DAYTONA 500.

For more information regarding the DAYTONA 500 and Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth, please visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com.

About Daytona International Speedway
Daytona International Speedway is a state-of-the-art motorsports facility and was awarded the SportsBusiness Journal’s prestigious Sports Business Award for Sports Facility of the Year in 2016. Daytona International Speedway is the home of The Great American Race – the DAYTONA 500. Though the season-opening NASCAR Cup Series event garners most of the attention – as well as the largest audience in motorsports – the approximately 500-acre motorsports complex, also known as the World Center of Racing, boasts the most diverse schedule of racing on the globe. Some of the exciting racing events include January’s Rolex 24 At DAYTONA and Roar Before The Rolex 24, February’s DAYTONA 500 and Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth, March’s Bike Week At DAYTONA Presented By Monster Energy, featuring DAYTONA Supercross and the DAYTONA 200, the August Coke Zero Sugar 400 weekend, and much more. The Speedway grounds are also used extensively for other events that include concerts (Welcome to Rockville, Heroes Honor Festival, etc.), sporting events (DAYTONA Soccer Fest, CLASH DAYTONA, etc.) civic and social gatherings, car shows, photo shoots, production vehicle testing and police motorcycle training.

About NASCAR

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 14 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Series, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Euro Series, NASCAR Mexico Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.

For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, X and Facebook.

About Alan Ritchson/Reacher S3

Ritchson will soon return for his titular role and as an executive producer on the third season of Reacher, which has already received an early fourth season renewal. Under his first-look film deal and separate three-picture deal for acting with Amazon MGM Studios, Ritchson is set to produce and star in the Adam Shankman-directed holiday comedy The Man With The Bag alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in addition to producing and headlining the film adaptation of Nicholas Sparks’ latest bestseller, Counting Miracles. He has wrapped production on War Machine for Netflix, the action-thriller Motor City opposite Shailene Woodley and Ben Foster, and on the action-comedy Playdate alongside Kevin James where he also serves as executive producer. Ritchson is set to reprise his role in the untitled 11th installment of Universal Pictures’ Fast and Furious blockbuster franchise and will further produce and headline the action-thriller Runner.

National Security Advisor Mike Waltz Issues Statement on Marc Fogel Release

By

Flagler News Weekly

-

February 11, 2025

“Today, President Donald J. Trump and his Special Envoy Steve Witkoff are able to announce that Mr. Witkoff is leaving Russian airspace with Marc Fogel, an American who was detained by Russia. President Trump, Steve Witkoff and the President’s advisors negotiated an exchange that serves as a show of good faith from the Russians and a sign we are moving in the right direction to end the brutal and terrible war in Ukraine,” said National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.

“Since President Trump’s swearing-in, he has successfully secured the release of Americans detained around the world, and President Trump will continue until all Americans being held are returned to the United States. By tonight, Marc Fogel will be on American soil and reunited with his family and loved ones thanks to President Trump’s leadership.”

Media Release: The White House, Office of Communications

Bunnell Issues Precautionary Boil Water Notice

By

Flagler News Weekly

-

February 11, 2025

Precautionary Boil Water Notice

Last Updated: February 11, 2025 – 4:32pm

Bunnell [February 11, 2025 at 4:00 PM]– Due to contractors (MetroNet) working in the area, a water main was damaged between S BOOE & S CHERRY. Staff is working diligently to make repairs.

Affected areas are: S PINE ST; S CHERRY ST; S MOORE ST; E BOOE ST

AS A PRECAUTION, WE ADVISE OUR CUSTOMERS TO BOIL TAP WATER USED FOR DRINKING, COOKING, MAKING ICE, BRUSHING TEETH, OR WASHING DISHES.

YOU MAY CONTACT THE UTILITIES DEPARTMENT AT 386-437-7515 FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.

Continue to monitor the City website for updates.

######

Bunnell [February 11, 2025 at 2:00 PM]- A contractor working within the City limits has hit a City water main. This is creating City wide water issues. City crews are out to address this matter. Please be aware that water pressure and access are being impacted at this time. Once resolved any Boil Water Notices needed will be issued. Please stay alert to the City website for updates.

Palm Coast Songwriter’s Festival Set for April 30-May 4, 2025

By

Danielle Anderson

-

February 11, 2025

PALM COAST, FL – Palm Coast is getting ready for an extraordinary week of live musical performances and storytelling as the 2025 Palm Coast Songwriters Festival is set to take center stage from April 30 to May 4, 2025. Featuring an all-star lineup of over 45 hit songwriters with more than 175 #1 hits, this festival offers an exclusive and intimate experience like no other.

“This year’s line-up is like going to an All-Star game of hit songwriters for 5 straight days,” said founder Garry Lubi.

The highly anticipated attracts visitors from across the nation to Palm Coast for the festival that showcases a variety of locations in Flagler County including local eateries like The Landing Strip, the Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa, and the Daytona State College Ampitheater.

“We have a special kickoff show April 30th commemorating the grand reopening of the newly renovated Daytona State Palm Coast Amphitheater with a portion of ticket proceeds going to the Flagler County Education Foundation to fund scholarships to Daytona State College,” added Lubi.

The lineup of performers is a who’s who of Nashville’s finest, and Lubi has worked diligently over the years to create a welcoming atmosphere for the artists. The grassroots effort has paid off, and the Palm Coast Songwriters Festival has become one of the coveted invitations for songwriters on the circuit.

Elite Songwriters and Their Hits

“The 2025 Palm Coast Songwriters Festival boasts a lineup of elite Nashville songwriters whose work has topped the charts and been performed by some of the biggest names in music. From timeless classics to today’s chart-topping hits, these writers span decades of musical brilliance,” said Lubi, a huge fan of the artists who have now become more like family to him and his wife Barbara.

Confirmed performers include:

Jeffrey Steele – Known for 85+ top ten hits including “What Hurts the Most” and “My Wish” (Rascal Flatts).
Michael Ray – Recording artist and songwriter with hits like “Think a Little Less,” “Her World or Mine,” and “Whiskey and Rain.”
The Warren Brothers – Writers of “Red Solo Cup” (Toby Keith) and “If You’re Reading This” (Tim McGraw).
Jessi Alexander – Writer of “I Drive Your Truck” (Lee Brice) and “Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma” (Luke Combs). Chris DeStefano – Known for “Something in the Water” (Carrie Underwood) and “At the End of a Bar” (Chris Young featuring Mitchell Tenpenny).

The Palm Coast Songwriters Festival is a combination of ticketed and free events over nearly a week, with the Daytona State College Amphitheater serving as the main hub for entertainment in Palm Coast, and some ticketed events sell out before the festival even begins.

“We now have people buying tickets in the USA, coast to coast, along with people from around Florida, and our locals,” said Lubi, encouraging fans and first timers to pick up tickets early.

“To the people that have never gone, if you love music, you have no idea what you are missing. Buy a single day ticket and come see what it’s all about.”

2025 Festival Highlights

Wednesday, April 30: Celebrate the grand re-opening of the Daytona State College Palm Coast Amphitheater with a special charity kick-off show (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM). Headlined by Michael Ray, this evening of live music and storytelling benefits the Flagler County Education Foundation, supporting scholarships for Daytona State College students.
Thursday, May 1: Free show at Hammock Grill (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM), followed by ticketed performances at the amphitheater (5:00 PM).
Friday, May 2: Exclusive shows at Hammock Beach Resort (11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, members & guests only) and evening performances at the amphitheater (5:00 PM).
Saturday, May 3: Bloody Mary Brunch Bash at The Landing Strip Tavern (11:00 AM – 1:30 PM), followed by evening amphitheater performances (5:00 PM).
Sunday, May 4: Grand finale with performances from 1:00 PM to 6:30 PM at the amphitheater.

For more details, visit www.PalmCoastSongwritersFestival.com.

City of Palm Coast Invests in High-Performance Micro Surfacing for Over 30 Roadways

By

Brittany N. Kershaw

-

February 11, 2025

Palm Coast –The Palm Coast City Council is continuing its commitment to infrastructure maintenance by investing in High-Performance Micro Surfacing for over 30 residential roadways this year. This proactive approach extends pavement life, enhances road durability, and improves the overall appearance of the city’s streets.

High-Performance Micro Surfacing involves the application of granite aggregate and polymerized asphalt emulsion, creating a protective layer that shields the underlying asphalt. This method increases the longevity of road surfaces while enhancing their aesthetic appeal, offering a smoother and stronger finish.

The selection of roadways for micro-surfacing was based on a data-driven approach. Only local residential roads were considered, while cul-de-sacs and collector roads were excluded due to the treatment’s suitability and higher traffic volumes. Roads were selected with a Pavement Condition Index (PCI) rating between 73 and 80, to ensure preventative maintenance is applied before significant degradation occurs. To optimize planning, operations, and budget considerations, roads within the same neighborhood and exhibiting similar conditions were grouped together. Efforts were also made to ensure a fair geographic distribution, incorporating roadways from various neighborhoods across the city.

The roads scheduled to receive High-Performance Micro Surfacing are as follows: Ballard Lane, Ballenger Lane, Baltimore Lane, Barbera Lane, Barkley Lane, Barkwood Lane, Bassett Lane, Carr Lane, Cerrudo Lane, Collins Lane, Eastgate Lane, Eastman Lane, Eastmoor Lane, Fairbank Lane, Faircastle Lane, Fairmont Lane, Lancaster Lane, Lansdowne Lane, Louisburg Lane, Louvet Lane, Post Lane, Post Oak Lane, Post Tree Lane, Postman Lane, Rosecroft Lane, Rosepetal Lane, Royal Leaf Lane, Royal Palm Lane, Royal Tern Lane, Wood Center Lane, Wood Clift Lane, and Wood Crest Lane.

Residents will be notified in advance of work beginning on their streets-which is slated to begin in Spring 2025. The City of Palm Coast appreciates the community’s cooperation in maintaining high-quality infrastructure for all. For more information and project updates, please visit the Palm Coast Progress page at www.palmcoast.gov/pcprogress.

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.

Palm Coast City Council Workshop Meeting on February 11, at 6 p.m.

By

Shannon Martin

-

February 11, 2025

City Council Workshop Meeting on February 11, at 6 p.m.

Topics Include GAP Analysis Recommendations for Utility Rates, Requests for Proposals for Entity Wide Risk Assessment, 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, February 11, at 6 p.m. will be as follows:

Presentations

The following presentations will be presented:

The Stormwater & Engineering Department will present the findings of a utility gap analysis and recommendations for utility rate adjustments. The presentation will outline necessary changes to water and wastewater rates to ensure long-term financial sustainability and infrastructure maintenance.
The Financial Services Department will present an overview of the Request for Proposals (RFP) for an entity-wide risk assessment. This presentation will outline the scope of services, potential outcomes, and next steps for City Council’s consideration in assessing City operations.

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.

Beginning February 4, 2025, the Council will hold the following meetings each month: a business meeting at 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday, a workshop at 6 p.m. on the second Tuesday, a business meeting at 9 a.m. on the third Tuesday, and a new workshop at 9 a.m. on the fourth Tuesday. All meetings will continue to be held in the Community Wing at City Hall, 160 Lake Avenue, Palm Coast.

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-in-review.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis: Florida Legislation Joint Proclamation

By

Flagler News Weekly

-

February 10, 2025

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Please see below a statement from the governor on the proclamation calling for a special session of the Florida Legislature on illegal immigration enforcement to convene this week.

“Florida always leads. We have a responsibility to enact policies that will help end the illegal immigration crisis once and for all, and our Republican leaders have been working tirelessly to do just that,” said Governor Ron DeSantis.

“The bills to be considered this week in special session take ideas from the various proposals and brings them together to enact the strongest legislation to enhance interior enforcement and to combat illegal immigration amongst the fifty states. The proposed legislation requires the full participation of state and local law enforcement with the Federal government in its enforcement of immigration law, prevents the ‘catch and release’ of illegal aliens, and ensures that illegal aliens who enter Florida are held accountable. It also provides significant resources to bolster these efforts. I want to thank the Florida Legislature for convening in special session on this important topic. In working together on this bill, Senate President Ben Albritton and Speaker Danny Perez have been great partners, and we have produced an aggressive bill that we can stand fully behind. I thank the members of the Florida House and Senate for delivering on behalf of the people who sent us here. I also thank Agricultural Commissioner Wilton Simpson for his support of this revised product to help combat illegal immigration. With the enactment of these policies, Florida will help the Trump Administration to deliver on the President’s historic mandate to end illegal immigration. This is a big win for the people of Florida and demonstrates that we will continue to lead.”

Media Release: Office of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis

Registration Open for Rotary’s Race of the Runways 5K

By

Flagler News Weekly

-

February 10, 2025

Race of the Runways 5K
February 22, 2025, 5:30pm
Flagler County Executive Airport
Registration Fee: $35 (Through January 30, 2025)
$40 (January 31-21, 2025)
$45 (Race Day)
Discounts for runners 12 and under.

First 500 registered receive medal and shirt.

All racers invited to enjoy food/beverages after the race. (Guests/spectators pay $5.)

What makes this race different?
Each of you participate in races for different reasons. For some it’s your hobby, others it’s part of your wellness goals. And for some, it’s a fun social event with friends. For Rotary Club of Flagler Beach, when you participate in Race of the Runways it’s about helping us fulfill our club motto of “Service Above Self.”

Your participation makes it possible for us to help local people in need and provide sustainable projects abroad, such as:
Provide Christmas toys and gifts to approximately 750 children
Spearhead a monthly food distribution for 400+ families in need
Launched a county-wide initiative to promote the 988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline (with Rotary Club of Flagler County and Rotary District 6970)
Provided Flagler Beach Police/Fire Departments with an Emergency Response Trailer
Provided AED’s for the Flagler Beach Ocean Rescue lifeguard ATVs
Upgraded the computer lab at the Rymfire Boys & Girls Club, plus STEM activities and much more
Supply monthly books to all children ages birth – 5 years in the 32136 zip code (register through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library)
Fund annual college scholarships to high school students
Additional financial support of numerous nonprofits in Flagler County
Working with Rotarians throughout the world, we have helped immunize more than 2.5 billion children against polio in 122 countries and have helped reduced polio cases by 99.9 percent worldwide.

Rotary is about taking action to create lasting change in our own neighborhood. Thank you in advance for being a part of our efforts to help people live their very best life.

Leadership Lessons with Dr. Saviak … Why Mentors Matter

By

Dr. Joe Saviak

-

February 10, 2025

People development is the most important responsibility of a leader. Leaders are mentors. Mentors are leaders. It’s not the position you hold but the role you play in the success of others which makes you a leader.

Leaders need multiple mentors both inside and outside the organization. Every member of the team should have access to several mentors. Mentoring needs to be the organizational culture. Never hire talented individuals of integrity without committing to providing them the resources and tools to optimize their contributions which includes mentors.

Mentors are advisers. They don’t make decisions for their mentees. They help mentees follow the best decisional process to arrive at the right choice for them. They don’t tell us what to think but rather what to think about when making a specific decision.

It is a relationship not a conversation. A mentoring relationship revolves around trust, honesty, objective counsel, listening, a willingness to teach and learn, patience, understanding, empathy, humility, experience, judgment, confidentiality, regular contact, match/fit, independence not dependence, and encouragement. As Maxwell adds, a mentor should not advise if he or she has never made this type of decision because it’s like telling someone about a country he or she has never visited.

Both the mentor and mentee have to be truly committed to a successful and productive relationship. It will take time to build this partnership. They need to focus their attention on their conversation and avoid distractions (e.g., put down the phone and have one meeting at a time). They need to value each other’s time. The mentor should take time to give advice, and the mentee needs time to understand and process it. Mentors need to take time to learn what issue the mentee is facing. They need to ask questions and listen to the answers.

It is OK for a mentor to say “I don’t know” or refer the mentee to another mentor. One of the most valuable things a mentor does is suggest resources or tools which can aid the mentee in analyzing the issue. Mentors must remember that their own experience has limits. Mentors should also compare advice with outcomes.

A mentee is not required to follow the mentor’s advice. Ultimately, the decision is made by the mentee. Mentors need not be overprotective. Both mentors and mentees should not avoid necessary discussions. Mentees have to be allowed to make their own decisions including mistakes. It is also wise for a mentor or mentee to admit a mistake either in advice or decisions. A lot of beneficial learning can come from mistakes.

Both mentors and mentees give and get in this relationship. The goal is to help mentees achieve their goals and be the best they can be. The mentor finds it to be rewarding to help and see their success. No one achieves anything of real significance without a mentor. Mentors make all kinds of hopes and dreams possible (Abrashoff, 2002; Blanchard, 2011; Cate, 2021; Chopra & Saint, 2017; Collins, 2001; Drucker, 2001; Grant, 2017; Kotter, 2012; Lee 2021; Lencioni, 2012; Maxwell, 1998; Welch, 2005).

DOH-Flagler Provides Free or Low-Cost Breast Cancer Screenings

By

Danielle Anderson

-

February 9, 2025

Flagler County, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Flagler County (DOH-Flagler) will host the 3D Mobile Mammography bus to provide free or low-cost mammograms to women in the community on Monday, March 17, 2025, from 8 am – 5 at the following location:

301 Dr. Carter Blvd, Bunnell, FL 32110

Eligibility for Free Mammogram Screenings

Must meet each of the four criteria below:

Women ages 50-64
- Women ages 40-49 with a parent, sister, brother, or child that’s had breast cancer
Have a household income that is less than or equal to 200% of the poverty level
Have no health insurance to cover the cost of a clinical breast exam, mammogram, or Pap smear
Primary residence is in Florida

To see if you qualify for these screenings, call 386-663-6852

Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program

The Florida Department of Health provides access to free or low-cost breast cancer screenings statewide to women who are uninsured or underinsured, have a low income, and meet the program eligibility requirements. Learn more about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and the benefits of early detection.

###

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.

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Feb. 11, 2025) – Daytona International Speedway announced today that Alan Ritchson will add some muscle as the honorary pace car driver for the DAYTONA 500. The actor and producer will lead the field to green for the 67th running of The Great American Race.

“It’s an honor to be named the honorary pace car driver for the DAYTONA 500,” said Ritchson. “I hope the drivers are feeling extra competitive this year because there’s no way I’m ditching after the first lap. My dream has always been to win the DAYTONA 500. This is my year.”

Ritchson will be driving the 2025 Blazer EV SS, announced on Monday by Chevrolet as the pace vehicle for The Great American Race.

The action begins on Wednesday, Feb. 12, with DAYTONA 500 Qualifying Presented by Busch Light, setting the field for the Duel At DAYTONA, which occurs the following night on Thursday, Feb. 13, where drivers will battle it out for a spot in the coveted Great American Race.

Then Sunday, Feb. 16, directly following GRAMMY® Award Winning Artist Pitbull’s pre-race show, the USAF Thunderbirds will perform their flyover, preparing both fans and drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series for an intense battle in the 67th running of the DAYTONA 500.

For more information regarding the DAYTONA 500 and Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth, please visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com.

About NASCAR

About Alan Ritchson/Reacher S3

Media Release: The White House, Office of Communications

“This year’s line-up is like going to an All-Star game of hit songwriters for 5 straight days,” said founder Garry Lubi.

The highly anticipated attracts visitors from across the nation to Palm Coast for the festival that showcases a variety of locations in Flagler County including local eateries like The Landing Strip, the Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa, and the Daytona State College Ampitheater.

“We have a special kickoff show April 30th commemorating the grand reopening of the newly renovated Daytona State Palm Coast Amphitheater with a portion of ticket proceeds going to the Flagler County Education Foundation to fund scholarships to Daytona State College,” added Lubi.

Elite Songwriters and Their Hits

Confirmed performers include:

Jeffrey Steele – Known for 85+ top ten hits including “What Hurts the Most” and “My Wish” (Rascal Flatts).

Michael Ray – Recording artist and songwriter with hits like “Think a Little Less,” “Her World or Mine,” and “Whiskey and Rain.”

The Warren Brothers – Writers of “Red Solo Cup” (Toby Keith) and “If You’re Reading This” (Tim McGraw).

Jessi Alexander – Writer of “I Drive Your Truck” (Lee Brice) and “Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma” (Luke Combs). Chris DeStefano – Known for “Something in the Water” (Carrie Underwood) and “At the End of a Bar” (Chris Young featuring Mitchell Tenpenny).

The Palm Coast Songwriters Festival is a combination of ticketed and free events over nearly a week, with the Daytona State College Amphitheater serving as the main hub for entertainment in Palm Coast, and some ticketed events sell out before the festival even begins.

“We now have people buying tickets in the USA, coast to coast, along with people from around Florida, and our locals,” said Lubi, encouraging fans and first timers to pick up tickets early.

“To the people that have never gone, if you love music, you have no idea what you are missing. Buy a single day ticket and come see what it’s all about.”

2025 Festival Highlights

Thursday, May 1: Free show at Hammock Grill (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM), followed by ticketed performances at the amphitheater (5:00 PM).

Friday, May 2: Exclusive shows at Hammock Beach Resort (11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, members & guests only) and evening performances at the amphitheater (5:00 PM).

Saturday, May 3: Bloody Mary Brunch Bash at The Landing Strip Tavern (11:00 AM – 1:30 PM), followed by evening amphitheater performances (5:00 PM).

Sunday, May 4: Grand finale with performances from 1:00 PM to 6:30 PM at the amphitheater.

For more details, visit www.PalmCoastSongwritersFestival.com.

Topics Include GAP Analysis Recommendations for Utility Rates, Requests for Proposals for Entity Wide Risk Assessment, and more.

The agenda for the City Council Workshop Meeting on Tuesday, February 11, at 6 p.m. will be as follows:

Presentations

The following presentations will be presented:

The Stormwater & Engineering Department will present the findings of a utility gap analysis and recommendations for utility rate adjustments. The presentation will outline necessary changes to water and wastewater rates to ensure long-term financial sustainability and infrastructure maintenance.

The Financial Services Department will present an overview of the Request for Proposals (RFP) for an entity-wide risk assessment. This presentation will outline the scope of services, potential outcomes, and next steps for City Council’s consideration in assessing City operations.

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.

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.

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.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Please see below a statement from the governor on the proclamation calling for a special session of the Florida Legislature on illegal immigration enforcement to convene this week.

“Florida always leads. We have a responsibility to enact policies that will help end the illegal immigration crisis once and for all, and our Republican leaders have been working tirelessly to do just that,” said Governor Ron DeSantis.

Media Release: Office of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis

Race of the Runways 5K February 22, 2025, 5:30pm Flagler County Executive Airport Registration Fee: $35 (Through January 30, 2025) $40 (January 31-21, 2025) $45 (Race Day) Discounts for runners 12 and under.

First 500 registered receive medal and shirt.

All racers invited to enjoy food/beverages after the race. (Guests/spectators pay $5.)

Rotary is about taking action to create lasting change in our own neighborhood. Thank you in advance for being a part of our efforts to help people live their very best life.

People development is the most important responsibility of a leader. Leaders are mentors. Mentors are leaders. It’s not the position you hold but the role you play in the success of others which makes you a leader.

Mentors are advisers. They don’t make decisions for their mentees. They help mentees follow the best decisional process to arrive at the right choice for them. They don’t tell us what to think but rather what to think about when making a specific decision.

Flagler County, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Flagler County (DOH-Flagler) will host the 3D Mobile Mammography bus to provide free or low-cost mammograms to women in the community on Monday, March 17, 2025, from 8 am – 5 at the following location:

301 Dr. Carter Blvd, Bunnell, FL 32110

Eligibility for Free Mammogram Screenings

Must meet each of the four criteria below:

Women ages 50-64

Women ages 40-49 with a parent, sister, brother, or child that’s had breast cancer

Have a household income that is less than or equal to 200% of the poverty level

Have no health insurance to cover the cost of a clinical breast exam, mammogram, or Pap smear

Primary residence is in Florida

To see if you qualify for these screenings, call 386-663-6852

Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program

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DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Feb. 11, 2025) – Daytona International Speedway announced today that Alan Ritchson will add some muscle as the honorary pace car driver for the DAYTONA 500. The actor and producer will lead the field to green for the 67^th running of The Great American Race.

Then Sunday, Feb. 16, directly following GRAMMY® Award Winning Artist Pitbull’s pre-race show, the USAF Thunderbirds will perform their flyover, preparing both fans and drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series for an intense battle in the 67^th running of the DAYTONA 500.

Race of the Runways 5K
February 22, 2025, 5:30pm
Flagler County Executive Airport
Registration Fee: $35 (Through January 30, 2025)
$40 (January 31-21, 2025)
$45 (Race Day)
Discounts for runners 12 and under.