- March 6, 2025
+ Human remains found in Flagler
The remains of a St. Johns County woman were found in a remote area of Flagler County around 7:30 a.m. Tuesday. The case has since been ruled a homicide.
The body was identified as Barbara Parchem, 67, of Vermont Heights, according to the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office. Parchem’s death was caused by blunt force trauma, according to a preliminary autopsy report released Wednesday by Dr. Predag Bulic of the 23rd District Medical Examiner’s Office.
A person of interest, whose name is not being released, has been identified. Detectives are also examining evidence lifted from the scene and interviewing potential witnesses.
The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office will be the lead agency on the case. It is working with support from the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida State Attorney’s Office.
Anyone who has information about this case is asked to contact Detective Jeremy Russell at 904-209-2193.
+ State seeks foster parents
Florida is on a mission to recruit 1,200 foster families in 12 months in an attempt to be more selective in finding foster parents willing to love a child as their own.
Open Hearts Family Services of Volusia and Flagler counties, a program operated by the Florida United Methodist Children’s Home, is trying to help the state meet its goal by holding a series of question-and-answer sessions to help the state recruit foster parents.
The next session will be held at 7 p.m. May 6, at 5200 Belle Terre Parkway.
A panel of foster care experts will be on hand to answer any questions.
+ Flagler County organizations to host luncheon on health reform
The Flagler County Chamber of Commerce & Affiliates and Flagler County Department of Economic Opportunity will co-host a luncheon on health reform at noon May 17 at the Hilton Garden Inn. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m.
Benefit consultants Chase Foy and Katherine Kam, of Brown & Brown of Florida Inc., will share a presentation called "Health Reform Post Election: What it Means for Your Company." The cost is $25, with advance registration and $35 the day of the event. Call 437-0106 by May 14 to make a reservation.
