A Florida House committee unanimously approved a bill to expand the “school guardian” program to state colleges and universities. Inspired by a 2025 shooting at Florida State University, the proposal allows campus presidents to designate trained employees to carry firearms. While supporters emphasize enhanced response times, critics warn that arming civilians could confuse law enforcement during active shooter scenarios.
Featured
Judge Rejects Defense Witness Testimony on Victim Credibility Ahead of Henriqson Trial on Capital Rape Charges
Circuit Judge Dawn Nichols denied Kristopher Henriqson’s request for a sixty-day trial delay, though she remains open to a postponement if he secures a medical expert. Henriqson, representing himself against capital charges, seeks to prove a discredited theory regarding physical evidence. The court also ruled that defense witnesses cannot offer opinions on the victim’s truthfulness, citing strict evidentiary rules, a further blow to Henriqson’s defense. He goes on trial on capital rape charges next week.
Fatal Crash West of Bunnell Claims Life of 44-Year-Old Daytona North Woman
Melani N. Stodola, a resident of Walnut Avenue in Daytona North–not far from the scene of the crash–was driving her blue 2009 Honda sedan when she crashed into a vehicle described as a “sod-cutter” in 911 dispatch notes, at 8067 state Road 100 West late Monday morning.
Mental Health Issues May Have Played a Role as Details Emerge in Flagler Beach U-Haul Standoff
The woman at the center of a standoff involving a U-Haul truck in Flagler Beach Monday may have been experiencing a mental health episode and delusional issues, according to details of her arrest that emerged today. May Ling Ip “called 911 and made numerous statements indicating emotional instability and possible delusional thinking,” according to a sheriff’s report. The trigger of the incident on reports of the Ip’s suspicious behavior, especially after her initial interactions with a deputy, doesn’t appear to have been unreasonable.
Defying DeSantis’s ‘Terrorist’ Designation, CAIR Florida Officials Drop In for Muslim Day at State Capitol
Officials from the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) Florida came to Tallahassee Monday to speak with lawmakers about pending legislation during the annual “Muslim Day” at the Capitol, but found conditions far different than in the past. In an absurd posting, Florida Attorney James Uthmeier asked law enforcement to be “on heightened alert for any possible security threats.” At least seven members of the Florida Capitol Police stood sentry in the rotunda of the Capitol as the press conference took place — as noted by one lawmaker who spoke.
Defiant Ex-Flagler Paramedic James Melady Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison, Calling Rape Conviction ‘Malicious’
Former Flagler County paramedic James Melady was sentenced to 10 years in prison for the 2021 sexual battery of an incapacitated patient. Melady remained unrepentant, labeling his conviction a threat to the paramedic profession. The victim, who discovered the assault years later through video evidence, detailed the devastating trauma that followed, including a miscarriage and mental health relapse. Despite clear evidence of the victim’s helplessness, the jury’s verdict on a lesser charge limited Melady’s maximum sentence.
A Hurricane of a Life: Flagler Bids Farewell to Firebrand Activist Jane Gentile-Youd
Friends, family, and local officials gathered at the Palm Coast Community Center to honor the memory of Jane Gentile-Youd, a formidable community activist known for her fierce advocacy, vibrant personality and her grudges. Speakers highlighted her complex legacy, her enduring marriage to Mark Gentile-Youd, and her impact on Flagler County politics, concluding with a tribute to her transformative and multi-dimensional spirit.
K-9s and BearCat Subdue Non-Compliant Suspects Fleeing in U-Haul After A1A Standoff in Flagler Beach
A man and woman are in custody following a standoff involving a U-Haul truck in Flagler Beach. After refusing to exit the vehicle on State Road A1A, deputies used less-lethal munitions and tear gas to disable the suspects’ vision and clear the cab. A K-9 unit eventually apprehended both individuals after the driver attempted to flee toward the ocean. Authorities recovered drugs from the truck, and the criminal investigation remains actively ongoing.
On DeSantis’s Supreme Court, Ethnic Diversity Masks Ideological Monoculture
Florida’s judiciary is undergoing a radical transformation as Governor DeSantis replaces retiring moderates with rigid originalists like Justice Adam Tanenbaum. While the court maintains ethnic diversity, it has become ideologically monolithic, systematically dismantling voter-approved mandates and legal precedents. This shift toward a Federalist Society-aligned bench threatens the future of voting rights, reproductive freedom, and the principle of an independent judiciary.
I’m an Ex-FBI Agent. Here’s How Federal Agents Are Undermining Law Enforcement Principles
The killing of Good and Pretti raises legal, tactical and policy questions regarding law enforcement practices by federal agents. These cases illustrate how some federal agents are engaging with the public in a way that undermines established principles of policing and constitutional law.
Saturday in Byblos:
Mme de Sévigné at 400
The 400th anniversary of Mme de Sévigné’s birth is a chance to revisit the enduring vitality of her 17th-century correspondence. While modern communication devolves into emojis and AI-generated snippets, Sévigné’s letters remain vivid psychological studies and prose poems, her voice a warm, essential guide to living, loving, and aging.
Unmask ICE. End the Rittenhousing of America.
Masked ICE agents operate with dangerous impunity typical of paramilitaries and militias in third-world countries. It’s time to take off their masks, end their immunity, require bodycams, and to diminish the undisciplined violence of amateurs, prevent any agent hired within the past year to be in the streets.
Florida Ethics Commission Dismisses Unrelated Complaints Against Three Flagler County and City Officials
The Florida Commission on Ethics dismissed three complaints against former Acting Palm Coast City Manager Lauren Johnston, Flagler Executive Airport Director Roy Sieger, and Bunnell Planning Board member Lynn Lafferty, ruling them legally insufficient. The commission found that allegations of conflicts of interest and mismanagement lacked substantive evidence or fell outside their jurisdiction.
The Last Gallery Standing: How GOLA’s Crafty Art Defies the Odds in Flagler Beach
Amid a shrinking local art scene, Marge and Ted Barnhill’s Gallery of Local Art (GOLA) remains a vital hub for creators in Flagler Beach. Now expanding into their adjacent restaurant, GOLA recently featured photographer Sayre Berman’s striking metal prints. Berman’s work, ranging from iconic rock stars to coastal landscapes, seeks to evoke deep, tactile emotions.
Palm Coast and County Endorse Vague $2.1 Million Animal Shelter Plan and Joint Animal Control Services
Palm Coast and Flagler County officials have endorsed a plan to build a $2.1 million animal shelter and consolidate animal control services. This move aims to eliminate reliance on the Flagler Humane Society but faces significant financial hurdles. While the task force suggests a fall groundbreaking, officials raise concerns over missing operational cost data and competing budget priorities. The transition could significantly increase animal control expenses for the region.
Flagler County Triggers Conflict Resolution Over Flagler Beach Annexation as Both Sides Seek to Avoid Lawsuit
The Flagler County Commission voted 4-1 to initiate a formal conflict-resolution process against Flagler Beach regarding the Summertown annexation. Despite Commissioner Andy Dance’s efforts to use a less confrontational agreement to avoid the appearance of litigation, the majority opted for a legal framework to protect the county’s rights. The dispute involves infrastructure and environmental concerns, notably drawing accusations of “bad faith” from the City Attorney regarding the county’s past approval of the same development.
Florida Lawmakers Advance Measure to Circumvent Minimum Wage for ‘Trainees’
A Florida House subcommittee approved a bill allowing trainees, interns, and work-study participants to waive their rights to the state’s $15 minimum wage in favor of the lower federal floor. Republican supporters argue the current wage limits entry-level opportunities, while Democrats contend the measure exploits workers to enrich corporations. The proposal includes time limits on these lower-pay training periods.
Former Palm Coast Resident, 56, Pleads in Fatal Dog Choking Case and Could Avoid Prison
Howard T. Blair pleaded guilty to third-degree felony animal cruelty after fatally choking his dog, Nutmeg, last year. His sentencing points do not mandate prison, but don;t exclude it, either. Dozens of letters to the court demanding a harsh sentence. Blair, currently recovering from a motorcycle accident, will return to the Flagler County courthouse for sentencing on March 4.
Ethics Commission Clears Flagler Beach City Manager Dale Martin in Golf Course Sale
The Florida Ethics Commission has cleared Flagler Beach City Manager Dale Martin of any wrongdoing regarding the $800,000 sale of the Ocean Palms Golf Club. An investigation by the commission found no evidence that Martin secretly shared non-public information or misused his position. The Ethics Commission advocate concluded that the sale was discussed publicly and Martin acted within his administrative authority.
Judge Bars Coastal Family Church Services at Flagler Square, Citing Covenants; Liberty Counsel Appeals
Coastal Family Church is appealing a court injunction that prohibits it from holding services at its Flagler Beach location, in the former Badcock Furniture store. Liberty Counsel argues the ban violates First Amendment rights. But Circuit Judge Sandra Upchurch ruled that private property covenants explicitly prohibit large public assemblies. Flagler Square owners claim a church would overwhelm parking and diminish retail value. The court suggests Flagler Square will likely prevail based on established contract and property law.
Palm Coast Charter Committee Wraps Up Work with Several Recommendations That Sharply Diverge from Council
The Palm Coast Charter Review Committee concluded its work, submitting its recommendations to the City Council for the November ballot. Key proposals include eliminating council health benefits, maintaining a $15 million borrowing limit, and requiring physical presence for votes. The City Council will review these advisory suggestions on February 17, determining which amendments will be presented to Palm Coast voters.
Six Strong Finalists Emerge in Search for Next Flagler Beach Police Chief, 3 With Local Ties
Six highly experienced candidates have been shortlisted to become the next Flagler Beach Police Chief. The finalists include internal acting chief Lance Blanchette, local veterans Anthony Raimondo and FBI agent Andrew Klopfer, alongside external leaders Pedro Delgado, Edward Fingers, and Jeffrey VanAuken. The diverse pool features extensive backgrounds in municipal administration, federal investigations, and large-scale state operations. City Manager Dale Martin will make the final selection following upcoming interviews conducted by a peer panel.
Flagler County Unemployment Drops Slightly from 5 1/2-Year High But Labor Force Also Shrinks
Flagler County’s unemployment rate fell to 5.5 percent in December, down from November’s 6.1 percent, though the labor force shrank a bit. State legislators are advancing a bill to further tighten unemployment benefit eligibility. Florida saw anemic job growth in 2025, hampered by losses in construction and manufacturing. Locally, the housing market reflects a slight cooling trend, with inventory rising and homes taking significantly longer to sell.
Sheriff’s Office Answers 19 Questions on Acquisition and Future Operations of Emergency Helicopter
Answering 19 questions submitted by FlaglerLive, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office addressed concerns regarding its recent $1.4 million helicopter acquisition, half of which was funded by attorney Dan Newlin. The agency defended the lack of a feasibility study by citing the sheriff’s prior air-operations experience in orange County. The agency clarified that the aircraft will focus on proactive patrols and emergency medical transport, and maintained that the independent office acted within its constitutional authority.
Mourning for a Vanishing America
The United States is undergoing a self-inflicted social and economic trauma through aggressive mass deportations. By prioritizing performative violence and warrantless incursions over economic stability, the current administration mirrors historical failures like the 1924 Immigration Act whose agents are dismantling the nation’s community fabric in a futile pursuit of an unattainable, exclusionary utopia.
Florida U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost Assaulted by Racist Maga Supporter
Florida Representative Maxwell Frost was assaulted Friday at a Sundance Film Festival party by a man shouting racist deportation threats. Police arrested Christian Joel Young for the attack, which also targeted a woman at the venue. The incident parallels a surge in aggressive federal immigration enforcement and fatal shootings by agents in Minneapolis.
Federal Agents Kill U.S. Citizen in Minneapolis, Firing Over 10 Times in Third Shooting in Three Weeks
Federal agents in Minneapolis fatally shot a 37-year-old U.S. citizen Saturday, the third such shooting in three weeks. While the Department of Homeland Security claims the man approached officers with a handgun and “violently resisted,” local officials and bystander video tell a different story. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara identified the deceased as a lawful gun owner with no criminal record, while Governor Tim Walz and Mayor Jacob Frey demanded an immediate end to the federal “siege.”
Saturday in Byblos:
Saul Bellow Goes Looking for Mr. Black
In “Looking for Mr. Green,” Saul Bellow crafts a “Heart of Darkness” in Depression-era Chicago. Classically educated George Grebe hunts for an elusive check recipient, navigating a Black neighborhood Bellow depicts as a “blighted” backdrop. The author’s sublime prose serves a supremacist lens, reducing human beings to transactional props for Grebe’s enlightenment.
Footage and Documents Contradict DHS Accounts of Violent Immigration Crackdown Incidents
Growing discrepancies between official Department of Homeland Security accounts and video evidence have sparked a crisis of accountability regarding federal immigration enforcement. While DHS frequently cites self-defense in use-of-force incidents, court records and bystander footage often suggest otherwise. Despite a federal judge’s recent ruling that characterized official testimony as “not credible,” legal doctrines like qualified immunity and the limitations of the Federal Tort Claims Act continue to make holding individual agents responsible nearly impossible.
Palm Coast and Flagler County Propose New $2.1 Million Animal Shelter, Side-Stepping Humane Society
A joint task force between Palm Coast and Flagler County government is recommending a new $2.1 million, 9,500-square-foot animal shelter in Palm Coast to handle city and county animal control intakes. The proposal reflects growing dissatisfaction with the Flagler Humane Society and seeks to establish a municipal-run “no-kill” facility. However, the plan faces scrutiny regarding its lack of funding sources, the exclusion of the Humane Society from discussions, and projected operating costs that may exceed current expenditures while offering fewer services.
Flagler Beach Advances Veranda Bay Annexation and Seeks Resolution of County’s ‘Bobbing and Weaving’ Threat to Sue
The Flagler Beach City Commission approved the Veranda Bay annexation on first reading in a 4-1 vote, despite a looming threat to sue from the county. The dispute centers on whether 122 existing homeowners must individually sign off on the deal. While developers argue deed restrictions are enough, the county cites state law requiring explicit consent. Commissioners moved forward to force a definitive stance from the county, though a final second reading remains contingent on avoiding litigation.
Florida House Advances Plan to Phase Out Non-School Property Taxes Despite Anguish Over Local Services
Florida House committees advanced two major property-tax proposals on Thursday, including a constitutional amendment to phase out non-school homestead taxes over ten years. While Republicans argue the move prevents local governments from treating residents like an “ATM,” Democrats and local officials warn of decimated public services. Meanwhile, the Senate has yet to release a companion plan, leaving the final form of a potential November ballot initiative in a holding pattern as leaders negotiate.
Against 2 Colleagues’ Claims of Inexperience, Lauren Ramirez Achieves Elite FSBA Certified Status
Flagler County School Board member Lauren Ramirez has earned the Florida School Boards Association’s Certified Board Member distinction, a credential held by only 27 percent of members statewide. This achievement comes months after fellow board members Will Furry and Christy Chong blocked her vice-chairmanship, citing a lack of experience. Despite managing a business and four children, Ramirez completed 96 hours of specialized training. She is currently the only member of the Flagler board to hold this professional certification.
Flagler Beach Poised to Annex Veranda Bay 2 Weeks After Incorporating Summertown, But Legal Hurdles Loom
The Flagler Beach City Commission is considering the annexation of Veranda Bay, following the recent 545-acre annexation of the Summertown development. While developer Ken Belshe envisions a vibrant, “Winter Park” style mixed-use hub, Flagler County is threatening litigation over compliance and homeowner consent issues. Concerns persist regarding the economic viability of new commercial centers, as similar projects in the region struggle to attract tenants despite decades of growth and ongoing residential expansion.
Controversial Education Bill Mandating Anti-Abortion Videos and Campus ICE Access Moves Forward
A Florida House subcommittee approved HB 1071, a huge education bill that mandates 6th-12th grade lessons on fetal development, including specific video-watching requirements. The legislation also prohibits spending on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and requires school administrators to grant law enforcement, including ICE, full campus access. While proponents argue the bill focuses on merit and biological facts, critics raise concerns regarding medical accuracy, potential ICE presence on campuses, and the erosion of inclusive programming.
Sheriff Staly Quietly Acquires Helicopter from Attorney Dan Newlin, Launching Agency Into Air Operations
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office has acquired a Bell 505 helicopter, formerly owned by prominent attorney Dan Newlin. The county administrator was surprised, noting the acquisition was never discussed during public budget hearings. While Sheriff Rick Staly has considered independent air support for years, the acquisition will lead to funding and operational costs, especially as the county already maintains the FireFlight emergency helicopter for law enforcement assistance.
Florida Bills Would Give Data Centers Public Record Exemption for a Year and Shield Ratepayers from Energy Costs
The Florida Senate Regulated Industries Committee has advanced legislation to create a regulatory framework for large-scale data centers. Senate Bill 484 requires facilities to account for broader electricity and water costs, preventing financial burdens from shifting to general ratepayers. While the bill emphasizes local authority and transparency, a companion bill proposes a one-year public-records exemption for companies planning new developments. Lawmakers view these measures as essential to remaining competitive in the AI sector.
3 Weeks Before Rape Trial, Henriqson Wanted DNA Evidence Suppressed and Witness Tampering Investigation
Kristopher Henriqson, representing himself against 11 felony rape and molestation charges, appeared in court to argue for the suppression and rewriting of DNA evidence. Henriqson claims the FDLE’s “sperm cell fraction” labeling is prejudicial and misleading, suggesting transfer DNA was mischaracterized as semen. The judge denied his requests to rewrite reports or initiate a witness tampering investigation regarding a secret recording. Henriqson remains set to represent himself when the trial begins in three weeks.
Palm Coast Moves to Permit Food Trucks Beyond Town Center, Ending Long-Standing Ban
The Palm Coast City Council has unanimously approved a first reading of an ordinance to ease long-standing restrictions on food trucks, or “Mobile Food Dispensing Vehicles.” The new rules establish “principal” and “accessory” use categories, defining lot sizes and operating hours. While some requirements like lot size and permanent amenities remain, the shift marks a significant move toward a more business-friendly environment, following years of restrictive policies that limited trucks to monthly events.
As Angel Sexton, 27, Is Sentenced to Prison, Mother Describes Family Wrecked By Sexual Assault of Her Son, 13
A Circuit Judge sentenced Palm Coast resident Angel Sexton, 27, to six years in prison followed by nine years of probation for sexually assaulting a 13-year-old relative. During the sentencing, the victim’s mother delivered a long statement describing the profound betrayal and trauma that derailed her family’s move to Florida and demolished family relationships and trust, causing psychological and physical damage. Sexton remained silent, as is common in negotiated pleas where the sentence is predetermined.
Sarasota School Board Member Protests Against ICE. County’s GOP Wants Him Booted Off the Board.
The Sarasota County Republican Party has formally requested that Governor Ron DeSantis remove School Board member Tom Edwards from office. The call follows Edwards’ participation in an anti-ICE rally where he blasted the killing of Renee Nicole Good. In response, Board Chair Bridget Ziegler proposed a resolution mandating full cooperation between the school district and federal immigration authorities. Edwards maintains the effort is a politically motivated “culture war” designed to distract from student safety.
From Flamingos to SNAP Cuts: Florida’s Legislative Circus Begins
As the 2026 Florida Legislative Session begins, lawmakers are prioritizing cultural symbols and controversial social reforms. Proposals range from replacing the mockingbird with the flamingo to implementing “fetal personhood” laws and cutting essential healthcare and food assistance. While Democrats seek transparency for ICE detainees, the Republican majority focuses on deregulating environmental protections and restricting abortion access. The session reflects a deep ideological divide, pitting local conservation and public health against developer interests and hardline partisan agendas.
Saturday in Byblos
Claptrapped in the Underworld: Karl Ove Knausgaard’s ‘Morning Star’
Karl Ove Knausgaard’s “The Morning Star” following nine interconnected Norwegians over two sweltering August days, using a sudden celestial event to explore the boundaries of life and death. The narrative is addictive and atmospheric but devolves into incoherent theological meanderings and dangling plot threads. Knausgaard proves to be a masterful architect of labyrinths but an ultimately unsatisfying guide through them.
Two Palm Coast Homes Lost to Fires in 36 Hours, with Propane Tank Explosions at Both
Two accidental fires destroyed homes in Palm Coast’s B-section and F-section over a 36-hour period Thursday and Friday. Both incidents involved propane tank explosions and rapid attic spread, forcing firefighters to use defensive tactics. Despite the total loss of their properties, no residents or firefighters were injured.
Killing Renee Nicole Good and Stand Your Ground
Seen through Florida’s Stand Your Ground law, the killing of Renee Nicole Good by ICE agent Jonathan Ross in Minnesota highlights the dangerous subjectivity of moment-of-threat self-defense claims and the equally dangerous expansion of law enforcement immunity, which weakens reasonable use-of-force standards and immunizes lethal vigilantism.
State Attorney Charges 15-Year-Old as Adult in Flagler Kidnapping and Torture Case
State Attorney R.J. Larizza has charged 15-year-old Junior Bishop as an adult following the alleged kidnapping and torture of an 11-year-old boy. Bishop faces up to 30 years for aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer and reckless fleeing. Darnell Hairston, the alleged kidnapper, faces up to life in prison if convicted.
Jane Gentile-Youd, Flagler County’s Tenacious, Mercurial Civic Firebrand and Commission Fixture, Dies at 82
Jane Gentile-Youd, a prominent and often controversial civic advocate in Flagler County, has died at age 82. Known for her relentless presence at County Commission meetings, she spent decades challenging local officials and championing causes like the demolition of the Old Dixie Motel. Despite health struggles and fierce political battles, she remained a passionate, multifaceted figure whose legacy of tenacity and community service spans from Miami-Dade to Flagler, leaving an indelible mark on local politics.
$15 Million Over Budget, Nothing Built Since State Guard Facility ‘Broke Ground’ in Bunnell in 2024. Sheriff Is Not Pleased.
Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly is frustrated over the stalled $10 million Florida State Guard training facility in Bunnell. The state-managed project is over two years behind schedule and facing projected costs of $25 million. Staly criticized the Department of Management Services for inefficiency and massive budget overruns, suggesting the project would already be finished if he’d managed it through a direct state grant.
Palm Coast Couple Faces Felony Charges After Toddler and Elderly Relative Found in Unlivable Conditions
Nikolas Cummings and Tashaye Brown were arrested in Palm Coast after authorities discovered a toddler and an 87-year-old man living in extreme filth. Flagler County deputies found the home infested with cockroaches, which were seen crawling over the sleeping child. The elderly victim was found on a soiled mattress, neglected and unable to access proper food or medicine. Both suspects face felony charges for child and elderly neglect.
Jill Woolbright, Controversial Former School Board Member and Culture Warrior, Files to Run Again
Former Flagler County School Board member Jill Woolbright, who claimed she was in “satanic warfare” against the district, has filed to run for the District 1 seat she’d held for two years. She faces newcomer Cathy Lynn Moon, a retired postal executive focused on fiscal efficiency and public school advocacy. The district is grappling with stagnant enrollment and the rising impact of state private-school vouchers, an issue both candidates address.