The 61st Venice Biennale has shifted from a spiritual artistic showcase into an ideological battlefield under new rightwing leadership. The reinstatement of controversial nations prompted the collective resignation of the official jury, widespread artist boycotts, and intense public demonstrations. Clashes between peaceful activists and riot police highlighted the tension. Art serves as a vehicle for state agendas and a tool for resistance.
Archives for May 16, 2026
45 Flagler County First Responders Hold Joint Training for High-Water and Flooding Emergencies
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office and Flagler County Fire Rescue are completing a three-part swiftwater and flood rescue training series to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season. Approximately 45 personnel are practicing shallow-water maneuvers, defensive swimming, and multi-agency coordination.
Saturday in Byblos:
Maupassant’s Colonial Delusion
Guy de Maupassant’s 1884 short story “Châli” explores, against Maupassant’s intentions, the deep moral rot of European colonialism through a French admiral’s disturbing exploitation of a young Indian slave as the narrative highlights how imperial powers disguised systemic violence as benevolent paternalism. The literary self-deception directly mirrors the historical degradation of colonialism defined by Aimé Césaire.
Ingoglia Blusters Against ‘Wasteful’ Local Spending But Parses Taxpayer Giveaway for Rays Stadium
Florida CFO Blaise Ingoglia’s aggressive targeting of alleged local government waste contrasts with his approval of unappraised state land transfers for a new Tampa Bay Rays stadium. Video evidence contradicts his claims of voting against a controversial Destin property acquisition, showing he ultimately acceded to a package vote approved by Governor Ron DeSantis.
The Daily Cartoon and Live Briefing: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Unity in the Community, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Edward Johnson City Park in Bunnell, Chess Meet-Up for at all ages at the Flagler Beach Public Library, ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,’ an FPC Production, two shows at the Fitz, Trump’s diminishing fortunes.