The 9/11 Memorial Tribute Climb, Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa, and the Flagler County Fire Rescue Annual Golf Outing presented an $8,000 check to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF). The funds were raised through the 2024 9/11 Memorial Tribute Climb and Golf Outing, along with early contributions from 2025 events.
News Briefs
Florida Lawmakers File Bill for Stricter E-Bike Rules and Reporting
Naples Rep. Yvette Benarroch and St. Johns Rep. Kim Kendall have introduced a measure (HB 243) that seeks to strengthen Florida’s traffic safety laws by integrating electric bicycles, motorized scooters and electric motorcycles into the state’s regulatory framework. Under the legislation, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) would be required to maintain a separate database of crash statistics involving tandem-trailer trucks, motorized scooters, electric bicycles, and electric motorcycles to support future policy development and public safety initiatives.
DSC Signs Transfer Agreement with Western Governors University, an Online School
Daytona State College has signed a new transfer agreement with Western Governors University (WGU) that will allow DSC students to easily transfer credits toward WGU programs and apply for financial aid.
Daniel VanDeusen Named Flagler Fire Rescue’s Interim Deputy Chief
Flagler County Fire Rescue Chief Michael Tucker has named Daniel VanDeusen – formerly battalion chief – to the position of Interim Deputy Chief following the promotion of Percy Sayles, who previously held that position, to Deputy County Administrator.
Marketing 2 Go Offers Hands-On AI Training Course for Business Leaders Nov. 6 and 12
Marketing 2 Go, a full-service marketing agency serving Flagler and Volusia County and beyond since 2010, will host a four-hour hands-on artificial intelligence training program designed specifically for business leaders on November 6 and 12 for $199 per person.
Democratic Lawmakers Urge DeSantis To Declare Emergency and Buy Supplies for Food Pantries
Florida Democrats in the Legislature are imploring Gov. Ron DeSantis to declare a state of emergency and use state money to buy food and direct it to food pantries as nearly 3 million people lose access to a federal food assistance program.
Trump and Congress Continue to Be Paid
Some members of Congress are asking for their salaries to be withheld during the government shutdown, while federal workers on Friday missed their first full paycheck since many operations closed on Oct. 1. With no movement toward a deal to end the shutdown, the House remained on a prolonged break from Capitol Hill, the Senate left for its usual long weekend and President Donald Trump prepared to depart for a trip to China, where he will likely focus much more on foreign policy and tariffs than the funding lapse.
Bill Would Require Florida Landlords to Keep Rentals Well Air Conditioned
Winter Haven Republican Rep. Jon Albert’s measure (HB 241) would require sufficient cooling for rental properties, such as permanent or securely affixed appliances, such as central air systems, packaged thermal air conditioners, mini-split heat pumps, and window units, if local codes permit. Landlords would be obligated to provide and maintain cooling equipment that is capable of keeping the indoor air temperature of habitable rooms below 82 degrees Fahrenheit when the outdoor heat index is at or exceeds 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Palm Coast Council’s Ty Miller Appointed to Transportation Planning Board’s Executive Committee
Following a nomination by Flagler Beach City Commissioner Rick Belhumeur, Palm Coast Council Member Ty Miller was appointed by unanimous vote of the Volusia-Flagler Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) board to serve on the TPO’s Executive Committee. In addition to this leadership role, Miller also serves as a TPO Board Member, with Vice Mayor Theresa Pontieri serving as an alternate on the Board.
Homeward Bound Program Helps Promote Commercial Truck Driving Training at FTC
Now in its fifth year, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) Homeward Bound program at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility is helping Flagler Technical College (FTC) put a “face” on workforce training in Flagler County.
Bear Warriors United File Injunction to Halt Bear Hunt
Arguing that Florida’s decision to hold a bear hunt in December is not based on “sound” science and research, the group Bear Warriors United, a conservation group, asked a judge for an emergency temporary injunction to halt the hunt.
Flagler OARS Hosts Peer-Based Recovery Support Training
Flagler OARS (Open Arms Recovery Services) will host a comprehensive two-day training focused on supervision of peer-based recovery support services Feb. 11-12, 2026, at SMA Healthcare in Bunnell.
Court Increases Legal Fees Owed ‘Conversion Therapists’ to Nearly $900,000
Palm Beach County and Boca Raton governments are required to pay about $885,000 in attorney fees and other legal costs after a battle about bans on the controversial practice known as “conversion therapy,” a federal appeals court ruled Monday.
Cops Charge Woman Over Inflated Weenie
Jeana Renea Gamble, 61, was charged with resisting arrest and disorderly conduct for wearing an inflatable penis costume at a No Kings demonstration. Video of the arrest posted to Bluesky showed three officers holding her to the ground amid criticism from spectators. The video went viral over the weekend and led to widespread criticism of the officers.
Two ‘Vertiports’–Airborne Uber–Under Construction in Orlando and Tampa
Two vertiports to fly people around are being constructed at the FDOT SunTrax testing facility in Central Florida. This airborne Uber concept came after DeSantis discussed vertiports during meetings part of his international trade mission to the Paris Air Show this Summer. Drivers know Interstate 4 can be a particularly nightmarish trek from Orlando to Tampa, which could benefit if the vertiports take off.
Food Stamps May Run Out in 2 Weeks if Shutdown Persists
As the federal government shutdown extends to day 17, and with congressional leaders nowhere near negotiating, state officials are beginning to raise concerns of potential cuts to nutrition assistance benefits that feed millions if the government isn’t reopened.
From Jacques Brel to Charlie Brown, City Repertory Theatre Presents Retrospective Concert
City Repertory Theatre is reprising plays from throughout its 14 seasons with the first of three concerts featuring songs from the musicals CRT has staged over the last 14 years, with performers Laniece Rose (Fagundes), Benjamin Beck and Denise Elisha.
Flagler Tourism Office’s Debra Morgan Among 99 to Receive Society’s Certification
Debra Morgan, Destination Development and Community Engagement Manager for Flagler County’s tourism office, recently earned the Travel Marketing Professional Certification (TMP) from Southeast Tourism Society (STS) Marketing College. STS is a not-for-profit membership association dedicated to the development of travel and tourism professionals and organizations within the southeast region.
Flagler Sheriff’s K-9 Kyro, Almost 3, Dies from Unknown Medical Episode
Late Tuesday evening, Sheriff Rick Staly and the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office announced in a release the death of K-9 Kyro due to an unknown medical issue. Kyro died on Tuesday (Oct. 14). He would have been 3 this December.
Bill Would Require Florida Teachers to Take Oath
A bill filed Monday by state Rep. Tom Fabricio would require teachers to take an oath to the Constitution and nonpartisanship. The bill, HB 147, would require teachers to, “before entering upon the duties of a classroom teacher,” take the oath. The language is similar to oaths taken by lawyers, doctors, and public officials.
DSC Offering Full EMT Certificate Program at Flagler/Palm Coast Campus Starting in January
Daytona State College will begin offering the full Emergency Medical Technician Certificate program at its Flagler/Palm Coast Campus beginning in January 2026 and is now taking applications for the program.
Stetson University Student Musicians Performing at Carnegie Hall
Stetson University student musicians will take the stage at one of the world’s most celebrated concert venues next spring. The Dr. M. Jean Greenlaw Stetson University Concert will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 8 p.m. in Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall in New York City, showcasing the talents of selected student soloists and chamber ensembles.
Trump’s ‘Beautiful’ Bill Cuts $3.8 Billion from Florida’s Healthcare System, Hurting Hospitals and the Poor
President Donald Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” will cut $3.8 billion from Florida’s health care system, with that money primarily affecting Florida hospitals. Five Florida programs are over a certain cap and currently receive $9 billion. That total will drop to $5.2 billion in state-directed payments by 2034-2035, Meyer told the group of lawmakers after facing earlier questions in the week about how children are being disenrolled from the Florida KidCare program for not paying their premiums.
St. Johns County Launches Children’s Advocacy Group
St. Johns County has helped launch IMPACT: Advocating for Children Today, Inc., with community partners to identify the needs, resources, and partnerships to improve the lives of St. Johns County children and their families by advocating for a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment. A community workshop was held in August to proceed forward with program priorities, funding opportunities, and the formation of a board of directors.
Florida National Guard Can’t Retain Enough Troops Or Recruit New Ones
Compared to other states, the Florida National Guard ranked 53rd out of 54 in the guardsmen-to-citizen ratio, said Major General John Haas, an Adjutant General of Florida with the Department of Military Affairs. Haas warned during a Senate hearing that the Florida National Guard should be more than double its current size. He said Florida has the same size force as much smaller states like Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana.
Florida’s Colleges and Universities May Be Forced Each to Change a Street Name for Charlie Kirk
Every one of Florida’s 40 public universities and colleges would have to redesignate a road, a street or an avenue after Charlie Kirk, the extremist controversialist who was assassinated last month, if a bill introduced by a Dade City Republican becomes law. Revered among wide swaths of the right, Kirk had a long record of making divisive and bigoted comments. It is likely the bill will generate significant debate if it is taken up in committees.
Palm Coast Government Invites Community Input on Land Development Code
The City of Palm Coast is beginning the process of reviewing and updating its Land Development Code (LDC) and is inviting the community to participate in this important effort. A series of public workshops will be held during the Planning and Land Development Regulation Board (PLDRB) meetings and City Council meetings, all of which are open to the public. The first workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at Palm Coast City Hall.
Hearings Begin Over FPL’s Proposed Rate Increase
FPL’s originally proposed base rate hike in February would have allowed it to collect $9.8 billion in revenue over the next four years — the highest in U.S. history. Since then, that has been negotiated down by approximately $2.9 billion — still far too high, energy advocates argue.
Grand Jury Reported Imminent in Hope Florida Scandal
Subpoenas are being issued to Gov. Ron DeSantis staffers over the Hope Florida spending scandal. The subpoenas come as prosecutors in Tallahassee are convening a grand jury to meet during the week of Oct. 13, according to the Miami Herald/Tampa Bay Times. Hope Florida has been the subject of increasing scrutiny. Leaders of the organization faced lawmakers’ questions during the last Legislative Session.
Universal Is reopening Stardust Racers at Epic Universe
Despite potential litigation and an ongoing probe, Universal Orlando is reopening Stardust Racers after a man’s death last month. Stardust Racers had been closed since Kevin Rodriguez Zavala died Sept. 17. Rodriguez Zavala died from multiple blunt force trauma after his family’s lawyers said he hit his head repeatedly on the metal bar of the ride. They called his injuries extensive although the full autopsy has not been released.
State Debating Trophy Will be Named After Controversialist Charlie Kirk
The top student debaters in the state will hoist a trophy named for the late, controversial conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas announced Friday that the Florida Civics and Debate Initiative championship trophy will be named for Kirk, who gained notoriety for debating students on college campuses before he was assassinated.
DeSantis May Call Special Session to Force Amendment on Property Tax Repeal
Gov. Ron DeSantis is threatening to put lawmakers on the spot about property taxes during the heat of their reelection campaigns. The governor, during a news conference at Jacksonville International Airport Wednesday, reiterated that he believes voters should decide the fate of the property tax in the state come the November 2026.
Florida Schools and Parents Censored 444 Book Titles in 2025, Down from 732
Both the Florida Department of Education and PEN America, a nonprofit advocating for freedom of expression, have released their annual lists of books removed from school classrooms and libraries, each reporting fewer removals than last year.
Daytona State Offering 25 Art Scholarships for Veterans and Their Families Through Vets Create Program
Daytona State College is offering up to 25 scholarships for classes in ceramics, painting, drawing, design, photography, dance, theater and music to veterans and their dependent family members as part of the College’s Vets Create program.
Battalion Chief in Lee County Faces 31 Charges, from Embezzlement to Voyeurism and Stalking
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) arrested Albert “Shane” Sibert, 54, of North Fort Myers, a Battalion Chief with the Estero Fire Rescue department in lee County, on one count, each, of a scheme to defraud, grand theft, official misconduct, digital voyeurism dissemination, unlawful use of a tracking device, aggravated stalking, violation of injunction for protection against stalking, battery and money laundering. Sibert is also charged with 16 counts of unlawful interception of wire or oral communications and six counts of video voyeurism.
Teachers Must Now Self-Report When Arrested for Numerous Crimes
Florida law now requires educators to self-report to their employers within 48 hours an arrest for a felony or certain misdemeanors. The list of offenses ranges from sexual misconduct with mental health patients, felony fraud, murder, aggravated assault, human trafficking, weapons on school grounds, prostitution, felony voyeurism, threats to kill, and more.
Sheriff’s Office Gets $90,000 Grant for Motorcycle Safety Awareness
The grant will primarily be used to provide funding for overtime for the FCSO Traffic Enforcement Unit to conduct enforcement and driver education focusing on motorcycle safety. These measures aim to strategically target unsafe driving behaviors from both motorcyclists and vehicle drivers who show a lack of awareness to motorcycles.
SMA Healthcare Foundation Raises Record $480,000 for Outpatient Center
The SMA Healthcare Foundation celebrated a landmark evening at its Annual Dinner Celebration & Auction, themed “Photo Finish”, where the community came together to hit the funding goal for its new, state‑of‑the‑art West Volusia Outpatient Center. Held at the prestigious Daytona 500 Club at Daytona International Speedway, a record $480,000 was raised during the sold-out event.
Pinning Ceremony Marks Several Promotions and New Hires at Palm Coast Fire Department
Leading the list of promotions, Patrick Juliano has been elevated to the rank of Battalion Chief in recognition of his outstanding leadership and longstanding service to the community. Advancing to the rank of Lieutenant are Dylan Mulligan and Brandon Davis, while Caleb Dann and Gunner Pemberton have earned promotion to Driver Engineer.
UCF Meets ‘Preeminent State Research University’ Standard
The University of Central Florida announced Monday it has met standards to be designated as a “preeminent state research university,” which, in part, would lead to increased funding and recognition. “At a university of nearly 70,000 students, this accomplishment is truly remarkable and unprecedented at our scale,” UCF President Alexander Cartwright said in a prepared statement.
More than 11,000 Register for UNF’s Free AI Certificate Program Online
More than 11,000 people have registered in the last two weeks for the University of North Florida’s new AI for Work and Life Certificate program, which begins this Thursday. The course is open to all – professionals in any industry, students preparing for careers and anyone else curious to understand artificial intelligence. No prior AI experience is required. For professionals and lifelong learners alike, the course awards 1 Continuing Education Unit (CEU).
UF Rescinds Emeritus Status for Professor Over Kirk Facebook Post
The University of Florida rescinded a retired professor’s emeritus status Friday, the university announced, over a Facebook post the evening of Charlie Kirk’s death that garnered social media backlash. The university posted to social media Friday that “a retired faculty member who issued a post on social media that is raising concerns” had lost emeritus status. In a followup, the university did not confirm to the Phoenix who the professor was. The Gainesville Sun reported that it had confirmed the professor in question is retired UF law professor Jeffrey Harrison.
Conservation Group Files Suit to Halt Florida Bear Hunt
Bear Warriors United, a conservation group, has filed a lawsuit seeking to block the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission from holding the state’s first bear hunt in a decade. The group contends the commission violated several legal requirements, including approving a hunt using “obsolete” bear population numbers. The 23-day hunt, approved by the commission last month, is scheduled to start Dec. 6.
Majority of Florida’s Republican Voters Back Clean Energy Initiatives
An overwhelming number of Floridians report that their utility costs are rising, according to a statewide poll of voters showing that nearly 80% back alternative, clean energy sources that could mitigate those rising prices. The survey of 1,000 likely 2026 voters commissioned by Conservatives for Clean Energy Florida shows that 78% support clean energy initiatives, including 63% of Republicans.
Pre-Register for Free Virtual Skywarn Storm Spotter Class Oct. 1
Flagler County Emergency Management and the National Weather Service will host a free Skywarn Storm Spotter webinar class on at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, October 1, at the Emergency Operations Center.
Florida Projecting $1.5 Billion and $6.6 Billion Deficits in 2027 and ’28 if Lawmakers Don’t Rein in Spending
The economic forecast showed a $3.8 billion surplus for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. But without altering current levels of spending, shortfalls are anticipated of $1.5 billion and $6.6 billion in subsequent years. After a contentious legislative session this year that required overtime to hammer out a budget, Florida lawmakers could again face decisions about limiting spending during the 2026 session.
Florida Appeals Judge’s Order Invalidating Part of Book-Ban Law
Florida has appealed a federal judge’s ruling that said a key part of a 2023 law that led to books being removed from school library shelves is “overbroad and unconstitutional.”
Poll Said to Show Democrat Jolly in Statistical Tie with Renner and Donalds
The campaign for Florida Democrat David Jolly said Wednesday that a new public opinion poll it has commissioned shows the former GOP congressman in a statistical dead heat with both Byron Donalds and Paul Renner, the two major Republicans to enter the contest for governor in 2026.
Flagler County Hires Tywan Arrington as Economic Development Manager, Replacing Dolores Key
Flagler County has hired Tywan Arrington to serve as the county’s new economic development manager. Arrington brings years of experience in the sector with a focus on economic and international development, research development, urban planning and rural development.
55% of Floridians in Survey Oppose DeSantis Push for Congressional Redistricting
Although Gov. Ron DeSantis says he’s intent on pursuing a mid-decade congressional redistricting that would help Republicans maintain control of the U.S. House in 2026, the majority of Floridians do not agree — and that includes a majority of Republicans. The survey of nearly 500 Floridians of all political stripes conducted by Common Cause finds that 55% oppose the idea, with only 26% in support and another 19% undecided.