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.
Carousel
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.
New $4 Million, 52,000 Square Foot Aviation Complex At Flagler County Airport Doesn’t Preclude Flight Schools
The Flagler County Commission approved a 30-year lease of 3.5 acres–for $1,000 an acre–at the county airport to Upstate Companies of St. Augustine. The firm will spend $4 million to construct a 52,000-square-foot complex featuring four hangars and offices. While officials hope to attract avionics and repair shops, the lease does not explicitly ban flight schools, despite concerns from residents and some commissioners regarding noise: FAA regulations preclude excluding aviation-related businesses.
Flagler Commission Approves Heidi Petito Resignation and Severance Terms Following Months Of Intense Friction
The Flagler County Commission approved a mutual separation agreement for Administrator Heidi Petito in a 4-1 vote today. Petito resigned citing untenable tension with the board. The agreement provides 20 weeks of severance and allows her to remain until July 14, if necessary. Commissioners Kim Carney and Pam Richardson were opposed to the package. Supporters and members of the public praised Petito’s 25 years of professional service.
Florida Supreme Court Rejects Legal Petition To Block DeSantis From Redrawing Congressional Districts
The Florida Supreme Court unanimously rejected a petition from voters seeking to block Governor Ron DeSantis’ plan to redraw the state’s congressional districts. The ruling confirms the governor’s authority to call a special session and the Secretary of State’s power to adjust election qualifying dates. DeSantis aims to reshape districts ahead of potential federal rulings regarding the Voting Rights Act and race-based mapping.
The Daily Cartoon and Live Briefing: Monday, March 2, 2026
The Flagler County Commission holds a pair of meetings, one of them to discuss Administrator Heidi Petito’s resignation, the Beverly Beach town commission meets, how the Jerusalem Post glorified Donald Trump, a few words from Siegfried Sassoon.
Why Regime Change in Iran Is Unlikely
Following massive joint airstrikes by U.S. and Israeli forces that reportedly killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, President Donald Trump is heavily advocating for regime change in Iran. Despite the aggressive military campaign and calls for a civilian uprising, veteran diplomat Donald Heflin warns that the Iranian regime’s deeply entrenched power and well-armed Revolutionary Guards make a successful civilian-led overthrow highly improbable at this time.
Florida’s Legislative Session at Midpoint: Manufactured Outrage Over Solving State Crises
Midway through the legislative session, Florida lawmakers are neglecting pressing issues like housing and healthcare to focus on divisive culture wars and partisan distractions. Instead of helping citizens, representatives are advancing bills to rename airports, ban library books, protect gun manufacturers, and restrict voting rights. Furthermore, proposed legislation threatens to criminalize political dissent, signaling a deeply concerning shift toward government overreach and unconstitutional state surveillance.
Florida Ranks Third Nationwide in Confirmed Measles Cases as Senate Advances Vaccine Exemption Bill
Florida currently ranks third nationwide in confirmed measles cases, with the CDC reporting 107 cases and the state health department officially tracking 104 cases primarily affecting 15- to 24-year-olds. Despite highly contagious outbreaks and immunization rates dropping below the required 95% threshold for herd immunity, the Florida Senate is advancing legislation to allow parents to opt out of vaccinating their children based on conscientious objections.
The Daily Cartoon and Live Briefing: Sunday, March 1, 2026
Palm Coast Farmers’ Market at European Village, Valeria Luiselli’s “Predictions and Presentiment” and the place of sounds in prose, Grace Community Food Pantry.
Survey: Florida Voters Squeezed by Costs
A recent statewide survey by the James Madison Institute reveals that Florida voters are increasingly burdened by rising living costs, with insurance and property taxes driving housing unaffordability. While expressing concern over national divisions, a strong majority of Floridians support significant policy reforms, including property tax levy caps, expanded energy generation, and education unbundling. In the 2026 governor’s race, Byron Donalds currently leads the Republicans.
High-Speed Rail Moves Millions Around the World, Except in the U.S.
High-speed rail systems are found all over the globe. Japan’s bullet train began operating in 1964. China will have 31,000 miles (50,000 kilometers) of high-speed track by the end of 2025. The fastest train in Europe goes almost 200 mph (320 kph). Yet high-speed rail remains absent from most of the U.S.
Saturday in Byblos:
John Updike and Paul Bowles do Morocco
American authors John Updike and Paul Bowles portray Morocco in two short stories that start from the same geographic spot on the Mediterranean. Bowles approaches his Moroccan characters with a lyrical detachment that leaves room for interpretation. Updike projects a bleak, fear-driven racism reducing Arabs to menacing stereotypes. Both writers reveal much more about American anxieties and orientalist attitudes than the actual North African landscape they visited.
Trump’s United States of Amnesia Blunders Into Iran
While a lobotomized American public gorges on Super Bowl spectacles and celebrity gossip, an impotent Congress is letting the president bypass the Constitution to drag us into another disastrous Middle East war. Recycling the same radioactive lies used to sell the 2003 Iraq invasion, the administration pushes a distracted nation toward a bloody, unprovoked, and entirely preventable conflict with Iran.
The Daily Cartoon and Live Briefing: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Gamble Jam, Feline Friendship Art Class and Wine, “The Colored Museum” at CRT, Coffee With Commissioner Scott Spradley, experiencing Joe Rogan with David Remnick, Hugh Thomas on wizardry.
Martin Luther King Was For Universal Basic Income
Each year on the holiday that bears his name, Martin Luther King Jr. is remembered for his immense contributions to the struggle for racial equality. What is less often remembered but equally important is that King saw the fight for racial equality as deeply intertwined with economic justice. To address inequality – and out of growing concern for how automation might displace workers – King became an early advocate for universal basic income. Under universal basic income, the government provides direct cash payments to all citizens to help them afford life’s expenses.
New Endowment Secures Future Funding for Dolly Parton Imagination Library in Flagler County
Local resident Linda Mahran has established the Flagler County Early Literacy Endowment to provide free, age-appropriate books every month to children from birth to age five. Coordinated in partnership with local organizations, the fund will sustain the region’s Dolly Parton Imagination Library program. By raising community donations, the endowment aims to eliminate year-to-year fundraising dependence, foster early reading habits, and improve vital overall school readiness.
Facing A Toxic Environment, Flagler County Administrator Heidi Petito Tenders Her Voluntary Resignation
Flagler County Administrator Heidi Petito is resigning after facing continuous criticism from the new County Commission majority. Despite surviving a recent termination attempt, Petito recognizes the deteriorated working relationships and is proposing a separation agreement, effective at the latest in mid-July. Petito would stay on to shepherd the county through budget season. Her departure follows the recent resignation of Deputy Administrator Percy Sayles, who cited a toxic work environment. The commission will review her voluntary resignation and severance package on Monday morning.
Florida Senate Approves Data Center Legislation To Shield Local Communities From Massive Utility Costs
The Florida Senate unanimously passed a bill imposing new restrictions on large-scale data centers to prevent local utility ratepayers from shouldering the immense electricity and water costs associated with the booming artificial intelligence industry. Spearheaded by Governor Ron DeSantis, the legislation mandates public disclosure when data center plans are filed and requires the Public Service Commission to ensure these facilities cover their own utility expenses.
Recently Released Felon Tased and Arrested Following Knife Attack on Flagler County Sheriff’s Deputy
Fifteen months after a prior arrest for assaulting deputies, 35-year-old Andrew Mark Williams was arrested again on Thursday following a violent standoff at an Ormond Beach home. After locking his elderly relatives out, Williams barricaded himself inside and slashed a Flagler County Sheriff’s deputy with a sharp kitchen knife. Deputies deployed a Taser to subdue him, leading to seven new felony charges including elder abuse.
Election Looming, Exasperated Flagler Beach Commission Clashes Over Disjointed Accusations Against City Manager
Flagler Beach City Commissioner Rick Belhumeur presented a lengthy but vague list of grievances against City Manager Dale Martin, prompting deep frustration from colleagues over the lack of clear direction. During a tense meeting, Belhumeur did not recommend specific actions and said he had no intention to terminate Martin. The manager easily defended his administration’s actions, retaining firm support from the commission majority and crucial city employees, but questions remain.
Flagler Beach Commission Finalizes Historic Annexation of Veranda Bay, Increasing City’s Size by Almost a Third
The Flagler Beach City Commission finalized the historic annexation of Veranda Bay Thursday night, after previously approving that of Summertown, expanding the city’s land mass by nearly a third. Passed in a 4-1 vote, the twin developments will add over 2,200 housing units and extensive commercial space in the coming decades. Despite prior opposition and threatened lawsuits from the county, the final approval proceeded smoothly with only minor public dissent currently remaining.
The Daily Cartoon and Live Briefing: Friday, February 27, 2026
“The Colored Museum” in its final weekend at CRT, Acoustic Jam Circle At The Community Center In The Hammock, Scenic A1A Pride Committee meeting, Darius the Great and Donald Trump.
Feeling Unprepared for AI’s Shocks? You’re Not Alone.
Highly educated, accomplished professionals worry whether there will be a place for them in an economy where generative AI can quickly – and relativity cheaply – complete a growing list of tasks that an extremely large number of people currently get paid to do.
Controversial Bill Allowing Armed Civilians On Florida College Campuses Advances After House Approval
The Florida House of Representatives recently passed a bill expanding the school guardian program to state colleges and universities. The legislation allows college presidents to designate faculty and staff to carry concealed weapons on campus. While supporters cite safety concerns following previous campus violence, opponents question the adequacy of the proposed training and highlight funding disparities for law enforcement between colleges and state universities.
Flagler County Commissioner Kim Carney Launches File of Life Initiative to Ensure End-of-Life Wishes
Flagler County Vice Chair Kim Carney launched the File of Life initiative to help residents properly document their end-of-life medical directives. Inspired by the loss of her mother, Carney donated funds to provide specialized kits containing necessary yellow Do Not Resuscitate forms and magnetic holders. Now, Flagler County Fire Rescue Community Paramedics are distributing these kits to ensure first responders legally honor patient wishes.
Flagler Beach’s $2.6 Million Beachwalk Project at the Pier Is Dead; City Returns $745,000 Grant to the County
Flagler Beach is officially abandoning its $2.6 million Beachwalk project, opting to return a $745,000 tourism grant after the Florida Department of Environmental Protection required a costly new dune system to proceed. The city will now simply refurbish the existing A-frame structure instead of expanding it. The returned grant money will most likely be reallocated to a field lights project located in Palm Coast.
Flagler Schools Update Mandatory ECG Testing Policy for Student Athletes, This Time Without Controversy
Flagler County is updating its mandatory electrocardiogram testing policy for student athletes to align with new state legislation that mirrors the district’s pioneering rules. The school board on Tuesday voted to advance changes requiring students in athletics and marching bands to complete screenings every two years. The district’s ongoing partnership with AdventHealth provides free clinics, which recently saved a local basketball player from cardiac emergencies.
Florida May Be Left Holding Bag for $608 Million Cost of ‘Alligator Alcatraz’
The Justice Department announced that a highly anticipated $608 million federal reimbursement from FEMA will not cover construction costs for Florida’s state-run migrant detention centers, including “Alligator Alcatraz.” Court filings reveal any potential funding would only apply to operational expenses, contradicting prior claims by the DeSantis administration. The funding delay occurs amid a major restructuring at the Department of Homeland Security under Secretary Kristi Noem.