The Florida House approved SB 1134, a bill banning local governments from funding or promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Passing 77-37, the measure allows citizens to sue officials and empowers the governor to remove those in violation. GOP legislators claim DEI wastes taxpayer funds. Critics warn the vague language threatens cultural celebrations and marginalized communities. The bill now awaits Governor Ron DeSantis’ signature.
Dennis Bayer Out as Marineland Attorney After Nearly 30 Years, Replaced by Firm that Represents Palm Coast
Marineland Town Attorney Dennis Bayer resigned after nearly 30 years following friction with the town commission over marina contracts and other issues The commission appointed Douglas Law Firm as his replacement. The town faces financial pressure after losing property tax revenue from Marineland Dolphin Adventure’s transition to a nonprofit. Commissioners now seek to renegotiate a 10-year marina contract, despite Bayer’s warnings regarding the lack of legal grounds.
Sheriff’s Deputy Shoots Charging Dog On Farraday Lane as Children Witness It; Second Deputy Is Bitten
A Flagler County Sheriff’s deputy shot a Labrador-pit bull mix named Bear after the dog charged him during a welfare check in Palm Coast. Several children witnessed the shooting. Later, a supervising deputy was bitten while transporting the animal to emergency care. The nonprofit organization SMART is now seeking community donations to cover $7,000 in veterinary surgery costs for the recovering dog.
The Daily Cartoon and Live Briefing: Tuesday, March 10, 2026
The Flagler County Commission meets at 9 a.m. for a business meeting and again at 1 p.m. for a workshop, the Beverly Beach Town Commission meets, storytime with Thomas Mann’s “Little Lizzy,” a study in humiliation.
Decrypting Hegseth’s B-Movie Boasts and Gloating
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s rhetoric during the 2026 Iran war marks a departure from traditional military communication. By utilizing action-movie tropes and hypermasculine “kill talk,” he replaces strategic justification with a focus on dominance. This shift reflects a broader administration trend where media personalities prioritize “owning” opponents over democratic accountability. Such language gamifies violence, obscuring the human cost of war in favor of showmanship.
Disagreements Over Education, Affordable Housing and Florida Forever Money Force Extended Legislative Session
Florida legislative leaders are at a stalemate over the state budget, requiring an extended or special session. House Speaker Daniel Perez and Senate President Ben Albritton remain divided on total spending, with a $1.4 billion gap between their proposals. Key disputes involve K-12 education funding, state worker pay raises, environmental conservation programs like Florida Forever, and millions in funding for affordable housing initiatives.
Stricter E-Bike Rules Set for DeSantis Signature
Florida lawmakers unanimously passed SB 382, a measure tightening regulations on electric bicycles. The bill, now heading to Governor Ron DeSantis, requires e-bike operators to slow to 10 mph within 50 feet of pedestrians on shared paths. It also mandates audible warnings before passing and establishes a safety task force. Additionally, law enforcement must compile detailed crash data, including operator age and licensing status.
Flagler County Commission Votes To Drop Legal Challenge Against Veranda Bay Annexation In Flagler Beach
The Flagler County Commission voted against challenging the City of Flagler Beach’s annexation of Veranda Bay. Two commissioners cited concerns regarding the legality of homeowner signatures in property covenants, but not a single Veranda Bay resident turned up to challenge the annexation, while the developer and a real estate broker spoke of the risks of losing deals. Developer Ken Belshe reaffirmed his commitment to existing infrastructure and conservation agreements.
Heidi Petito Scolds Flagler Commissioners For Unprofessional Handling Of Her Pending Summer Resignation
The Flagler County Commission decided to keep Administrator Heidi Petito through July 14 after she criticized the board for a “sloppy” and unprofessional transition process. Despite internal friction and calls for an immediate replacement, the commission opted against hiring an interim or borrowing staff from the Sheriff’s Office. Instead, the board will utilize the Florida Association of County Managers to conduct a permanent search.
Mozart And Mendelssohn Masterpieces Featured In Daytona Solisti Winter Music Festival Finale Concert
The Daytona Solisti Classical Players conclude their 2026 Winter Music Festival with “Classical and Romantic Realms” on March 15 at Port Orange Presbyterian Church. Artist in residence Michael Rickman will perform Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 12. The program also features Mendelssohn’s String Symphony No. 2, along with works by Vaughan Williams, Saint-Saëns and Bruch. Admission is by a requested donation of $15.
The Daily Cartoon and Live Briefing: Monday, March 9, 2026
The Bunnell City Commission meets, the Library Board of Trustees meets, Al Hadeed’s birthday and a few words from Raja Shehadeh and Ramallah.
The End of Congress’ War Powers
While the U.S. Constitution grants Congress the exclusive power to declare war, modern presidents have increasingly used Article 2 to bypass legislative approval. Historical precedents like the 1973 War Powers Resolution show a once-defiant Congress, but contemporary lawmakers appear less willing to challenge executive authority. As conflicts in Iran and Venezuela escalate, the legislative branch faces a critical choice: reassert its authority or remain compliant.
Severe Water Shortage Advisory Issued for Flagler and Other Counties
The St. Johns River Water Management District has declared a Severe Water Shortage advisory for Flagler County and other northeast and central Florida counties. Due to extreme drought and declining groundwater levels, landscape irrigation is now limited to 1 day per week. All water users must eliminate wasteful practices and prepare for further restrictions if dry conditions continue.
Florida Bill Banning Masking Identity of Law Enforcement and Immigration Agents Fails
Florida’s “Visible Act,” designed to ban masked law enforcement during immigration raids, has failed in the state legislature. Following fatal shootings by masked ICE agents in Minnesota, advocates like Senator Carlos Guillermo Smith argue for transparency. While Florida has historic anti-mask laws dating back to 1951 to combat the Ku Klux Klan, experts remain divided on whether these statutes can legally apply to federal officers.
The Daily Cartoon and Live Briefing: Sunday, March 8, 2026
Palm Coast Farmers’ Market at European Village, Yasmina Reza’s “God of Carnage” at Limelight Theatre, Christo Komarnitski on Netanyahu, waking up to Hezbollah’s horrors.
Lessons From The 1953 CIA Coup In Iran Reveal Trump’s Current Lack Of Strategy
The bombing of Iran highlights a lack of clear strategy from the Trump administration regarding regime change. By examining the 1953 CIA-led coup that ousted Mohammad Mossadegh, it becomes evident that successful political intervention requires coordinated influence operations rather than just military force. To truly support the Iranian opposition, the U.S. and its allies must move beyond airstrikes and implement a sophisticated strategy.
Big Beautiful Bill Cuts $665 Billion in State Medicaid Funds Over Next Decade
A new RAND Health analysis reveals that state Medicaid budgets will decrease by $665 billion over 10 years due to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. While the federal government saves $714 billion, states face varying impacts. California and New York see the largest cuts, while others may see general fund savings from reduced enrollment. Enrollment is expected to drop by 7.6 million by 2034.
Florida House Kills Bill to Expand Vaccine Exemptions
The Florida Senate is advancing a controversial bill to expand vaccine exemptions and allow over-the-counter ivermectin sales, despite House Speaker Daniel Perez stating the measure will not be heard. The bill excludes a total repeal of school mandates, but creates a new conscience-based opt-out category. The debate intensifies as Florida faces 124 measles cases in 2026, primarily linked to a university outbreak.
The Daily Cartoon and Live Briefing: Saturday, March 7, 2026
SpringFest 2026 returns to Palm Coast’s Central Park all day, with vendors and play, the Flagler Beach All Stars hold their monthly beach clean-up, the Saturday Flagler Beach Farmers Market, the Library of America’s reissue of Hannah Arendt’s “Origins of Totalitarianism.”
Detroit Approaches a Cliff as America Falls Behind in Global EV Race
At the 2026 Detroit Auto Show, the spotlight quietly shifted. Electric vehicles, once framed as the inevitable future of the industry, were no longer the centerpiece. Instead, automakers emphasized hybrids, updated gasoline models and incremental efficiency improvements. The message from Detroit was unmistakable: The United States is pulling back from a transition that much of the world is accelerating.
Worsening School Voucher Tracking Issues Ahead, a Senator Warns as Reform Bill Fails
Florida House Speaker Daniel Perez announced the House will not consider legislation lacking previous committee hearings, effectively killing Senate President Ben Albritton’s Rural Renaissance bill and Don Gaetz’s school voucher reform. While policy changes are stalled, a $144.8 million rural appropriation remains active in budget negotiations. Gaetz warned that failing to address voucher accounting shortfalls found in state audits will lead to further mismanagement.
A 20-Year-Old Student Is Accused Of Watching Newborn Die Before Burying Body In Backyard on Florida Park Drive
Anne Mae Demegillo, 20, is facing aggravated manslaughter charges after allegedly giving birth in her Palm Coast home and watching the infant die in a toilet. Authorities discovered the baby buried in a shallow backyard grave after a social media tip. The Daytona State College student reportedly attended classes and a theater performance after hiding the body in a duffel bag before the burial.
Suspicious Death At Florida Park Drive Home In Palm Coast Is Under Investigation, Sheriff Says
Flagler County Sheriff’s detectives are investigating a suspicious death at a residence on Florida Park Drive in Palm Coast. Deputies discovered the scene before dawn during a welfare check. Sheriff Rick Staly stated there is no threat to the community but declined to provide details on weapons or the victim’s identity. The home is owned by the Demegillo family.
Flickr Child Abuse Case Moves To Trial as Palm Coast Sex Offender Withdraws Plea, Objecting to Prison Term
Gary Durso, a 63-year-old Palm Coast sex offender, withdrew his guilty plea after a judge refused a sentence of house arrest. Durso faces a third-degree felony for allegedly uploading child sexual abuse material to Flickr. His prior conviction for traveling to meet a minor influenced the judge’s decision. A trial is set for May, where the defense will challenge the digital evidence.
The Daily Cartoon and Live Briefing: Friday, March 6, 2026
The first edition of Coffee and Conversation with Palm Coast City Manager Michael McGlothlin, First Friday in Flagler Beach, Free Family Art Night at Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, First Friday Garden Walks at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, sanitizing Israeli apartheid.
Israel Is Accelerating Its Creeping Annexation of the West Bank
While global attention remains on Gaza, Israel has rapidly accelerated its creeping annexation of the West Bank through legislative bills, security measures, and settlement expansion. Despite President Donald Trump’s stated opposition to annexation, the Israeli government continues establishing irreversible facts on the ground. To preserve any possibility of a future independent Palestinian state and to maintain regional stability, the United States must intervene decisively now.
Flagler Beach Hosts Second Annual Community Dinner April 18 in Celebration of Upcoming City Birthday
The City of Flagler Beach hosts its 2nd Annual Community Dinner on April 18 at Veterans Park. The event celebrates the city’s birthday by highlighting culinary talent from over 10 local restaurants. Tickets are $40 and require an entrée selection. This open-air celebration brings together residents and visitors to enjoy the unique flavors and character of Flagler Beach.
Florida House Passes Bill Granting Immunity to Gun Manufacturers Amid Sig Sauer Lawsuit Concerns
The Florida House passed HB 1551, a bill providing gun manufacturers immunity from certain products liability lawsuits. The 75-29 vote follows over $500,000 in campaign contributions from Sig Sauer, which faces litigation over its P320 pistols. While the House approved the measure, the Senate version remains stalled in committee with only 1 week remaining in the current legislative session.
4 Months in Jail, 5 Years Probation for Man Who Strangled Dog in Punishment; He’ll Be Added to Abuser Registry
Howard Taft Blair, 56, was sentenced to four months in jail and five years of probation for killing his dog, Nutmeg. The 15-month-old female was strangled during a visceral reaction to a dog fight. Judge Dawn Nichols cited poor judgment and potential substance abuse involving Xanax. Blair must pay fines, attend counseling, and is barred from future animal ownership or fostering.
Flagler Cares And Local Radio Stations Join in Neighbors Helping Neighbors Help-A-Thon For Families in Crises
Flagler Broadcasting will host the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Help-A-Thon this Friday to raise $25,000 for the Flagler Cares Barrier Fund. The event, simulcast on four local stations, encourages businesses to donate in-kind services and funds to help residents overcome sudden life-derailing obstacles. By providing “hand up” assistance rather than permanent welfare, the initiative seeks to stabilize families and foster a self-sustaining local community.
Flager Cares Impact: How Care Coordination Helped a Person in Need Move From Silence to Connection
Flagler Cares provides essential one-on-one support to community members facing complex barriers. When a deaf client struggled to complete mandatory interviews for food assistance, a care coordinator facilitated the process through lip-reading and secured her benefits. The support extended further as the agency helped her obtain free assistive phone-captioning technology, restoring her independence and ensuring she remains connected to vital services and family.
The Daily Cartoon and Live Briefing: Thursday, March 5, 2026
A few pictures of the disappearing Flagler Beach pier, a brief history of piers and one of their secret histories, Model Yacht Club Races at the Pond in Palm Coast’s Central Park, a few more days of free tax preparation.
The New Food Pyramid Is Scientifically Questionable
The new Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs) for 2025-2030 have caused significant controversy, with polarised opinions between their supporters and detractors. They are disruptive, to say the least, both in how they are presented and the recommendations they make. Little has been said about the fact that, for the first time since 1980, after nine editions in 45 years, the standard scientific procedure for preparing them has been completely bypassed.
10 Years in Prison for Melvin Adona for Hit-and-Run Deaths of Jacqueline Martin, 50, and Georgette Fisher, 59
Circuit Judge Dawn Nichols sentenced Melvin Adona to 10 years in prison and 10 years of probation for a 2023 hit and run in Bunnell. Adona, driving 70 mph after drinking, struck three pedestrians, killing Jacqueline Martin and Georgette Fisher while severely injuring Philip McClure. The defense and Adona himself claimed he “froze” in shock. The judge emphasized punishment, the loss of two lives, Adona’s concern for himself after the crash, and she singled out a deputy’s life-saving actions.
17-Year-Old Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison, 10 on Probation, for Armed Burglaries in West Flagler With 3 Accomplices
Alan Gabriel Jaramillo-Hernandez, 17, was sentenced to five years in prison and 10 years of probation for his role in 15 armed burglaries in West Flagler. Despite guidelines suggesting 13 years, Judge Dawn Nichols granted a downward departure. Jaramillo-Hernandez, who was 16 during the crimes, must pay restitution and avoid contact with three co-defendants, including his brother, while adhering to a curfew.
Palm Coast Council Approves $226,000 Design Plans to Transform Historic Fire Station 22 Into Museum
The Palm Coast City Council approved a $226,000 design contract to transform historic Fire Station 22 into a museum and home to the Palm Coast Historical Society and possibly a welcome center. Saved from demolition by the Palm Coast Historical Society and Council member Theresa Pontieri’s advocacy, the 1977 building will feature exhibition spaces, meeting rooms, and an art studio. Funding comes from fire impact fees as the city seeks grants to cover future construction costs for the site.
Bill To Allow Easier School Vaccine Opt-Outs Heads to Senate Floor Despite Rising Measles Cases
A Florida Senate panel approved SB 1756, a bill allowing parents to opt out of school-required vaccinations based on “conscience.” The move comes despite Florida ranking third nationally with 107 confirmed measles cases this year. Lawmakers also rejected an amendment that would have permitted private schools to maintain their own mandates. With 10 days left in the session, the House has yet to hear the proposal.
Florida Kills Billy Leon Kearse For The 1991 Murder Of Officer Danny Parrish
Florida killed 53-year-old Billy Leon Kearse on Tuesday for the 1991 murder of Fort Pierce Officer Danny Parrish. Kearse, who shot Parrish 13 times during a traffic stop, was the third inmate executed in Florida this year. The state Supreme Court recently rejected his final appeals, which claimed intellectual disability and improper jury influence caused by the presence of uniformed officers during his trial.
AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation’s Events Raise More than $150,000 to Support Surgical Care
The AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation raised more than $150,000 during its annual Gala Golf Classic on Feb. 27 and Moonlit Gala dinner on March 1, welcoming more than 275 attendees. Proceeds will support surgical services and nursing initiatives at AdventHealth Palm Coast and AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway.
The Daily Cartoon and Live Briefing: Wednesday, March 4, 2026
A Neil Diamond tribute show at the Fitz, the Palm Coast Code Enforcement Board meets, free tax preparation services, Bingo Night at Palm Coast Elks Lodge, the Flagler County Republican Club meets, Osama, Khamenei, Trump and Lucifer have coffee at Starbucks’s hell branch.
Every Bunnell Police Officer to Carry AED Following Major Grant From Firehouse Subs Safety Foundation
The Bunnell Police Department received a $20,930 grant from the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. This award provides 14 Zoll AEDs, first aid kits, and trauma kits, ensuring every officer and 2 civilian public safety officers are equipped for cardiac emergencies. Chief David Brannon emphasized that the new gear allows first responders to provide immediate life-saving measures to the community while on patrol.
Destruction is Not Political Success: There’s No Evidence of Iran Endgame
The U.S.-Israeli bombardment of Iran, including the assassination of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, lacks a viable political endgame. While air power can destroy military infrastructure, historical precedents in Iraq, Libya, and Afghanistan demonstrate that bombing rarely produces cooperative governments. Instead, these strikes risk creating power vacuums, radicalizing the population, and strengthening the Revolutionary Guard, ultimately failing to achieve long-term regional stability.
R.J. Santore Beats Rick Belhumeur, Scott Spradley Is Re-Elected for Flagler Beach City Commission
Newcomer R.J. Santore and first-term incumbent Scott Spradley won today’s election to the Flagler Beach City Commission, both edging out Rick Belhumeur, who had served three terms in five tries, by a wide margin, and Santore finishing with the most votes.
Potential Litigation Over Flagler Beach’s Annexation of Veranda Bay Isn’t Over Until Kim Carney Says It Is
Flagler County officials are reconsidering a previously assumed universal settlement regarding the Veranda Bay annexation. Commissioner Kim Carney, citing missing resident petitions, contends the annexation is illegal. Despite warnings from the county attorney about losing mitigation funds and a 153-acre conservation deal, the commission will hold a workshop to discuss legal action. The move, with guarded support from Commission Chair Leann Pennington, pending further deliberations, threatens to reignite conflict between Flagler Beach and the county.
An Obituary
Harry Franklin “Frank” Clegg, 1928-2026
Harry Franklin “Frank” Clegg, 98, died on February 27, 2026. A native of Haw Creek, Florida, and a University of Florida graduate, Frank was a veteran, forester, and carpenter. Deeply committed to his faith and family, he served as a deacon and volunteered nationwide with Campers on Missions. Services will be held March 5 at Flagler Beach Community Church and Seville Cemetery.
DeSantis Signs Ex-Cop James Duckett’s Death Warrant for 1987 Murder of Teresa McAbee, 11
Governor Ron DeSantis signed a death warrant for James Aren Duckett, a former Mascotte police officer convicted of the 1987 rape and murder of 11-year-old Teresa McAbee. Duckett, 68, is scheduled to be killed by lethal injection on March 31 at Florida State Prison. This is the fifth warrant the governor signed this year follows a record-breaking 19 executions carried out in Florida in 2025.
The Daily Cartoon and Live Briefing: Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Flagler Beach elects its next two city commissioners, polls open from 7 to 7, the Palm Coast City Council meets this evening, the State of the Union is at 9, Patricia Lockwood on New Hampshire.
US And Israeli Strikes On Iran Are Lawless and Undermine Global Security
Joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran violate international law, as preventive war lacks legal standing under the UN Charter. Launched during active negotiations, Operations Shield of Judah and Epic Fury ignore diplomatic pathways and the Caroline doctrine. By targeting heads of state and pursuing unplanned regime change, these actions risk regional chaos and humanitarian disaster, signaling a dangerous collapse of the established rules-based international order.
Florida Gas Prices Set To Spike Following Attacks On Iran
Florida gas prices, currently averaging $2.88, are expected to rise following U.S. and Israeli military strikes on Iran. Analysts predict crude oil costs could increase by 10 percent, affecting global shipping and production. While local increases may happen in daily increments, the national average has already reached $3, with further spikes anticipated as military operations continue to impact the Strait of Hormuz.
Day Of Celebration In Palm Coast Honors Local Heroes And Demands Urgency For State Black History Museum
The Day of Celebration at Palm Coast United Methodist Church highlighted the urgent need for the Florida House to approve the Museum of Black History in St. Augustine. Local leaders honored figures like the late Jim Guines and the Seeking Insights for Solutions Group and were brought to their feet by a pair of young performers who brought Black history to life. Despite unanimous Senate support, the project remains stalled in the House, prompting calls for legislative action to preserve Florida’s heritage.