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		<title>Palm Coast Mayor Drafts AI-Generated Budget Cut Framework</title>
		<link>https://995wlov.com/2026/06/12/palm-coast-mayor-drafts-ai-generated-budget-cut-framework/</link>
		<comments>https://995wlov.com/2026/06/12/palm-coast-mayor-drafts-ai-generated-budget-cut-framework/#respond</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2026 20:00:51 +0000</pubDate>
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				<category><![CDATA[News Daytona Beach - Latest Stories]]></category>

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			<description><![CDATA[Palm Coast Mayor Mike Norris this week emailed key administrative staff with a proposal to enact sweeping budget cuts as the city prepares to lose out...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Palm Coast Mayor Mike Norris this week emailed key administrative staff with a proposal to enact sweeping budget cuts as the city prepares to lose out on a major revenue source. This month the Florida legislature passed a joint resolution which would greatly diminish property taxes, a major source of revenue for cities and counties across the state. Pending at least one lawsuit, this initiative would appear before Florida voters on the 2026 ballot as an amendment to the state constitution.   The concept Norris drew up was generated by artificial intelligence, by Norris's own admission. He sent the proposal, which he deemed "a shell for the resolution" to City Manager Mike McGlothlin and City Attorney Marcus Duffy on Monday, June 8.   The text appears to function as a framework for a more refined and detailed resolution which could be voted on by the City Council. In its present form the proposal has some incompatibilities with Palm Coast's current tax and fee structure. "AI doesn't know we have a stormwater fee and there may be a few other things that aren't applicable to the city," Norris writes.   Starting out the proposal is an outline of what services are 'core' and thus should have their funding prioritized the highest. The first of these is police; Palm Coast contracts law enforcement services from the Flagler County Sheriff's Office. After that is fire and EMS, water and sewer operations, road safety maintenance, and solid waste collection. Anything not covered in those five categories is deemed 'secondary'.   The next tenet of the plan concerns administrative expenses. This includes an 'immediate freeze on all non-public safety positions', with vacancies being filled only if the city is required to do so. The Parks & Recreation and Public Works departments would be merged, as would the Finance and Procurement departments. As it happens, the latter pair is already within the same department.   Also included in this portion is a proposal to revert to a four-day work week, with ten-hour shifts each day Monday through Thursday with the exception of emergency and certain operational staff. While this wouldn't theoretically make a difference in the compensation budget, some analysts have suggested four-day work weeks can save on overhead and increase revenue for businesses.   Infrastructure would be handled on a 'worst-first + preservation' basis. This would halt any funding for new road expansions, with available funding instead going to sealing cracks and resurfacing instead of fully rebuilding infrastructure. Landscaping would be conducted less often, local homeowners associations would theoretically assume part of the management of the city's public parks, and no new vehicle purchases would be conducted for 24 months outside of public safety.   The AI's proposal of establishing a dedicated stormwater utility fee to fund drainage is moot, as Palm Coast already has such a fee. The same can be said for moving solid waste collection outside the general fund; it already is.   In the realm of outside contracting, Mike McGlothlin would be instructed to hold new bids for solid waste collection, IT, and insurance within 90 days of this resolution being passed. All software being paid for by the city that is 'not directly tied to core services' would be cancelled. The Public Works Director would then present on where the city could save money in-house instead of contracts.   The two final sections are both only one sentence each. For debt and growth: "No new general obligation debt or revenue bonds for buildings, expansion, or amenities until existing DRIs are built out and impact fees are collected." For reporting: "City Manager shall present a line-item 'Austerity Budget' to Council within 45 days showing $ savings per section above, and a separate list of any proposed new taxes/fees with justification."   Mike Norris' Proposal: Full Text   Marcus,   Here's a shell for the resolution, as I mentioned AI doesn't know we have a stormwater fee and there may be a few other things that aren't applicable to the city. Like merging parks and rec with public works. That may or may not be&nbsp;an&nbsp;option, that will be for the CM and staff to determine. This resolution, if adopted will let the residents know that we are taking action.&nbsp;   RESOLUTION NO. 2026-XX &nbsp;   A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF PALM COAST, FLORIDA, ADOPTING AN AUSTERITY BUDGET PLAN IN RESPONSE TO THE ELIMINATION OF PROPERTY TAX REVENUE   WHEREAS, the State of Florida is expected to eliminate or drastically reduce municipal property tax authority, which funds approximately 60-70% of the City of Palm Coast General Fund; and &nbsp;   WHEREAS, the City Council has a fiduciary duty to maintain core services while eliminating non-essential spending before asking taxpayers for new fees or taxes; and &nbsp;   WHEREAS, "Cut First. Tax Last." must be the governing principle of this budget.   NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Palm Coast, Florida:   Section 1. Core Service Priority &nbsp;   The City shall fund only core services in this order: 1) Police 2) Fire/EMS 3) Water/Sewer operations 4) Road safety maintenance 5) Solid waste collection. All other spending is secondary.   Section 2. Administrative Austerity Measures - Effective FY2027 &nbsp;   Hiring Freeze: Immediate freeze on all non-public safety positions. Vacancies filled only if public safety or regulatory compliance requires. Attrition only.   Department Consolidation: Merge Parks & Recreation administration with Public Works. Merge Finance with Procurement. Reduce director-level positions by minimum 2 FTE.   4-Day Administrative Week: City Hall administrative offices closed Fridays, 10-hour shifts Mon-Thu. Excludes police, fire, water plant, and 24/7 operations.&nbsp;   Eliminate Non-Mandated Programs: Suspend all new festivals, arts grants, economic development travel, and consultant studies until property tax replacement revenue is secured.   Section 3. Infrastructure & Operations Austerity &nbsp;   Roads: Adopt "worst-first + preservation" policy. No new road expansions. Shift budget to crack sealing and resurfacing vs full rebuilds.   Streetlights: Reduce residential streetlight hours 11:00pm-5:00am where FDOT safety standards allow. Accelerate LED conversion.   Parks: Reduce mowing frequency. Convert low-use turf to native landscape. Close low-use amenities weekdays. Offer HOA park takeover program.   Fleet: No new non-safety vehicle purchases for 24 months. Extend replacement cycles minimum 2 years. Auction surplus vehicles.   Section 4. User-Fee Shift &nbsp;   Stormwater: Establish dedicated stormwater utility fee to replace lost property tax funding for drainage.   Solid Waste: Move to full cost-recovery pricing. End general fund subsidy of trash service.   Recreation: Charge full cost recovery for programs, rentals, classes. Maintain fee waivers for qualified low-income residents only.   Development: Increase impact fees and permit fees to 100% cost recovery for plan review, inspection, and infrastructure impact.   Section 5. Contracts & Procurement &nbsp;   Contract Audit: City Manager shall renegotiate or competitively bid garbage hauling, landscaping, IT, and insurance contracts within 90 days.   Software Audit: Cancel all SaaS/software licenses not directly tied to core services.   In-source vs Outsource: Public Works Director shall report which services are cheaper in-house vs contracted within 60 days.   Section 6. Debt & Growth &nbsp;   No new general obligation debt or revenue bonds for buildings, expansion, or amenities until existing DRIs are built out and impact fees are collected.   Section 7. Reporting &nbsp;   City Manager shall present a line-item "Austerity Budget" to Council within 45 days showing $ savings per section above, and a separate list of any proposed new taxes/fees with justification.   BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Council will not consider any new taxes, assessments, or fees until Sections 2-5 above are fully implemented and documented.   PASSED this _ day of ____, 2026.   Mayor: ___ &nbsp;   City Clerk: ___   ---   How to use it at the podium:&nbsp;   Lead with Section 1: "Core services first."&nbsp;   Hit Section 2: "We cut admin before we cut cops."&nbsp;   Close with Section 7: "No new taxes until we show you the cuts."   Want me to add estimated dollar savings next to each line item using Palm Coast's current budget numbers? I can pull the last adopted budget and plug real figures in. ]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Drugs, Guns Recovered as VSO Serves DeLand-Area Search Warrants</title>
		<link>https://995wlov.com/2026/06/12/drugs-guns-recovered-as-vso-serves-deland-area-search-warrants/</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2026 15:23:27 +0000</pubDate>
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		<atom:updated>2026-06-12T15:23:27+00:00</atom:updated>
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			<description><![CDATA[Two residences in the DeLand area had search warrants served by the Volusia Sheriff's Office earlier this week. The searches led to multiple arrests a...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[Two residences in the DeLand area had search warrants served by the Volusia Sheriff's Office earlier this week. The searches led to multiple arrests and the seizure of narcotics and firearms. The two homes in question were located at 769 Grant Ave and 960 E. Pennsylvania Ave. Each location produced the arrests of three suspects on various charges, leading to a total of six arrests between the two warrants. Grant Avenue  The first warrant was served at the Grant Ave residence. Bodycam footage of the operation appears to show deputies announcing their search warrant and ordering the door opened. The property owner, 58-year-old Richard Frisbee, was arrested for maintaining a property for drug sales and possession of drug paraphernalia. "This homeowner just allows these dope-ball dope dealers to come here," said Volusia Sheriff Mike Chitwood. "We have multiple sales of crack cocaine and hopefully sooner or later the bank's gonna come in and do what they need to do before they don't have a property here anymore. The house is in foreclosure, this guy is just a real piece of scum." Additional arrests included 30-year-old Ashley Kersey on two narcotics possession charges and one of violation of probation, as well as 28-year-old Samuel McDonald for possession of cocaine and drug paraphernalia. Pennsylvania Avenue  The second of the two warrants was served at the Pennsylvania Ave residence. As fate would have it, one of the targets in this operation was Samuel McDonald, who was just recently taken into custody at the Grant Ave home. A more high-priority target, however, was still free: 37-year-old accused drug trafficker Michael T. Harris Jr. When the Volusia Sheriff's Office arrived at the second home, Harris was reportedly off-site on a fishing trip at DeLeon Springs State Park. He was later located and arrested on several criminal charges. These included the armed trafficking of cocaine, fentanyl, and Oxycodone, fentanyl and cocaine manufacturing, possession of Schedule II and Schedule III narcotics within 1,000 feet of a park or school, eight counts of possession of a firearm or ammo by a convicted felon, possession of a short-barreled rifle, Oxycodone possession with intent to sell inside a state park, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Two others were also arrested. 33-year-old Ashley Hereid was charged with three counts of narcotics possession and one count of drug paraphernalia possession, while 31-year-old Justin McClain-McDonald was charged with narcotics possession and drug paraphernalia possession. According to the VSO, deputies recovered 3.5 kilograms of cocaine, 750 grams of fentanyl, 112 grams of crack cocaine, as well as unspecified amounts of Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, and Suboxone. They also seized cash and seven firearms, one of which was a fully automatic rifle.]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>DSC Receives Recognition for Elementary Education Program</title>
		<link>https://995wlov.com/2026/06/11/dsc-receives-recognition-for-elementary-education-program/</link>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2026 16:02:43 +0000</pubDate>
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		<atom:updated>2026-06-11T16:02:43+00:00</atom:updated>
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			<description><![CDATA[Daytona State College has received a national recognition for its undergraduate Elementary Education program, the school announced on Wednesday. The N...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[Daytona State College has received a national recognition for its undergraduate Elementary Education program, the school announced on Wednesday. The National Council on Teacher Quality gave DSC an A+ rating. The metric in question evaluated DSC's ability to prepare future teachers for instructing elementary school students in reading. Specific components studied included phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. It was issued in the NCTQ's report, 'Teacher Prep Review: Decoding Progress in Reading Preparation'. "Learning to read is one of the most important milestones in a child's education because it impacts everything that follows," said DSC President Dr. Tom LoBasso. "Preparing teachers to help students become confident readers is incredibly important work, and I'm proud of the care and commitment our faculty bring to that mission every day." According to DSC's release about the recognition, the school's program demonstrated that all five scientific components were addressed "while limiting teaching methods not supported by research". An A+ rating indicates that a school not only met but exceeded the standards laid out and effectively excluded practices which are scientifically unsubstantiated.]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Palm Coast Man Arrested for Alleged Sexual Battery on Minors in Ormond Beach</title>
		<link>https://995wlov.com/2026/06/11/palm-coast-man-arrested-for-alleged-sexual-battery-on-minors-in-ormond-beach/</link>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2026 15:29:51 +0000</pubDate>
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		<atom:updated>2026-06-11T15:29:51+00:00</atom:updated>
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			<description><![CDATA[A Palm Coast resident has been arrested for allegedly having multiple sexual encounters with underage girls, the Volusia Sheriff's Office announced on...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[A Palm Coast resident has been arrested for allegedly having multiple sexual encounters with underage girls, the Volusia Sheriff's Office announced on Wednesday. 24-year-old Nicholas Alo is currently in jail without bond. On Saturday, June 6, the VSO says Alo had his encounters with two victims ages 13 and 15. He allegedly picked them up and bought them alcohol before taking them to Central Park in Ormond Beach. Here, Alo is said to have had intercourse with both victims. One of the two teens said she knew Alo from a few weeks before the incident. She reportedly told investigators that she met him at a hangout spot in Daytona Beach known as the 'White Fence'. From there, the two are said to have kept in touch on Instagram and Snapchat. An investigation into Alo was launched by the VSO's Child Exploitation Unit. Detectives believe Alo found victims by driving around east Volusia County including locations such as skate parks, boardwalks, and public parks. Whether the 'White Fence' is one of these locations remains unclear. On Wednesday, Alo was arrested and booked into the Volusia County Branch Jail. He's been charged with two counts each of child abuse and lewd/lascivious battery on a victim 12 to 16 years old. An escape charge was also issued to Alo after he allegedly tried running away from detectives as they attempted to walk him to the patrol car. Prior to Wednesday's arrest, Alo has several other charges on file in both Flagler and Volusia counties. These include trespassing, causing a child to commit an act of delinquency, child neglect with great bodily harm, traveling to meet a minor, and lewd/lascivious exhibition via computer among others. In 2020 Alo was convicted of other sex crimes against a minor who was 12 years old at the time. He served a two-year prison sentence for this offense. In 2023 he was sentenced to two years for another incident in which he non-sexually assaulted a minor in Flagler Beach, with one year having already been served in jail. The Volusia Sheriff's Office is asking those who may have information about other incidents involving Alo to contact Detective L. Johnson at (386) 323-3574. ]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Volusia County Announces Explore Volusia Schedule</title>
		<link>https://995wlov.com/2026/06/10/volusia-county-announces-explore-volusia-schedule/</link>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 2026 16:02:41 +0000</pubDate>
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		<atom:updated>2026-06-10T16:02:41+00:00</atom:updated>
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			<description><![CDATA[The Volusia County government has announced July's slate of events in the Explore Volusia program. These outdoor journeys will take residents through ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[The Volusia County government has announced July's slate of events in the Explore Volusia program. These outdoor journeys will take residents through some of the most pristine natural environments the county has to offer. The first event takes place on Thursday, June 2 at the Lake George Forest and Wildlife Management Area. Throughout the month of July, the tour will continue across Volusia County in a variety of nature activities with several planned activities. Environmental specialists will be on-hand to guide attendees, all free of cost. Those who want to attend are required to make a prior reservation. This can be done by searching for Explore Volusia on Eventbrite, or by contacting Tommy Nordmann at tnordmann@volusia.org or at (386) 943-7081, ext. 21266. The schedule of the Explore Volusia programs are as follows, per the county government.  Lake George Paddle&nbsp;(9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Thursday, July 2, at Lake George Forest and Wildlife Management Area, 998 Ninemile Point Road, Pierson) - Paddle the second largest lake in Florida, learn about the lake's military history, and explore canals and streams that feed into it. Participants will also learn about the Volusia Forever program and search for bald eagles and other native wildlife. Paddlers may bring their own watercraft or use one of Volusia County's sit-on-top kayaks free of charge. Paddlers must wear a personal flotation device and whistle. Ages 10 and up are welcome, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Wear closed-toe shoes that can get wet. Bioluminescence Paddles (8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 15, and Friday, July 17, at River Breeze Park, 274 H.H. Burch Road, Oak Hill) - Join Volusia County environmental specialists for a night-time paddle through Mosquito Lagoon, explore the beauty of bioluminescence, and discover what these tiny organisms are and what makes them glow. Paddlers may bring their own watercraft or use one of Volusia County's sit-on-top kayaks free of charge. Paddlers must wear a personal flotation device and whistle and have an electric white light (flashlight, lantern, or headlamp). Ages 10 and up are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Rose Bay Exploration (9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, July 22, at Spruce Creek Park, 6106 S. Ridgewood Ave., Port Orange) - Wade in the waters of Rose Bay with Volusia County environmental specialists. Participants will use dip nets and seine nets to study the aquatic life living among the mangrove islands and oyster reefs in these salt marsh areas. All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Wear closed-toe shoes that can get wet. Estuary Exploration (10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Thursday, July 23, at Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve, 3283 Sleepy Hollow Road, New Smyrna Beach) - Wade in the waters of Spruce Creek with Volusia County environmental specialists and use dip nets. Participants will use seine nets to study the aquatic life living among the mangrove islands and oyster reefs in these salt marsh areas. All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Wear closed-toe shoes that can get wet. Piddler Island Paddle (9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, July 28, at Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve, 3201 Sleepy Hollow Road, New Smyrna Beach) - Join environmental specialists for a paddling trip through the mangroves to Piddler Island, where the group will enjoy a break on a nearby sandbar. Along the way, participants will learn about the native wildlife that inhabits this estuarine ecosystem. Paddlers may bring their own watercraft or use one of Volusia County's sit-on-top kayaks free of charge. Paddlers must wear a personal flotation device and whistle. Ages 10 and up are welcome, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Wear closed-toe shoes that can get wet. Snorkeling Adventures (9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Thursday, July 30; and 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Friday, July 31, at Lighthouse Point Park, 5000 S. Atlantic Ave., Ponce Inlet) - Join the Explore Volusia program for snorkeling at Ponce Inlet and learn about marine life in this beautiful underwater ecosystem. Participants must have their own snorkeling gear and know how to swim. Ages 8 and up are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Wear closed-toe shoes that can get wet. ]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Daytona Man Arrested for Alleged Exposure to Palm Coast Teen</title>
		<link>https://995wlov.com/2026/06/10/daytona-man-arrested-for-alleged-exposure-to-palm-coast-teen/</link>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 2026 15:22:29 +0000</pubDate>
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		<atom:updated>2026-06-10T15:22:29+00:00</atom:updated>
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			<description><![CDATA[A Daytona Beach resident has been arrested for allegedly exposing himself to a teenager in a Palm Coast gym, the Flagler County Sheriff's Office annou...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[A Daytona Beach resident has been arrested for allegedly exposing himself to a teenager in a Palm Coast gym, the Flagler County Sheriff's Office announced on Wednesday. 34-year-old Craig Stevens Jr. was accused of trying to enter a shower stall that was occupied by a 15-year-old. The incident took place on Wednesday, February 25 at the Planet Fitness on SR-100 in Palm Coast. The Incident at Planet Fitness Deputies were called to the gym after employees said the teen told them about an inappropriate encounter with another gym-goer. He said that, while he was in one of the shower stalls in the gym locker room, the suspect tried to join him while fully undressed. The FCSO says surveillance footage shows Stevens entering the Planet Fitness at 6:59 a.m. on the day of the incident. He's said to have used a membership belonging to his mother. Upon entering the gym, he reportedly went directly to the men's locker room. Once inside, the FCSO says Stevens went into a shower stall without any clothes on and left the curtain open. When the teenage boy came in, he reportedly saw Stevens with his genitalia visible. At this point, the teen is said to have walked away without engaging. The teenager then went into a different shower stall, the FCSO says. He drew the curtain and kept some of his clothing on, apparently uncomfortable from the encounter moments ago. Here, Stevens reportedly walked over to his stall and opened the curtain, still fully nude. The teen is said to have objected and said, "No." According to the FCSO, Stevens took a pause, then replied to the teen with, "I thought you said I join you?" The victim again reportedly told him, "No". This is when Stevens is said to have put his clothes back on, left the locker room, and departed the gym. Surveillance footage produced an estimate of 27 minutes that Stevens was in the locker room. Investigation and Charges  After speaking with the teen, detectives produced a photo lineup. He identified Stevens with 'absolute confidence', the FCSO said. With this, detectives went to interview their suspect. Stevens is said to have denied any wrongdoing. The FCSO says that the story Stevens did give them was refuted by the surveillance footage and other evidence. The investigation into Stevens did ultimately lead to a warrant for his arrest. Stevens has been charged with one count of lewd/lascivious exhibition by an offender over 18 against a victim under 16. "This behavior is predatory, disgusting and illegal, and perverts like this only increase their aggressiveness," said Flagler Sheriff Rick Staly. "I commend the teen victim for the way he handled this perverted encounter and immediately reporting it. He likely protected others from becoming victims of this predator." Suspect Already in Prison As it so happened, Stevens was in jail for an unrelated situation shortly before the Planet Fitness incident. He was released from custody in Seminole County on February 17. In March Stevens was sentenced to four years and six months in federal prison after pleading guilty in October 2025 to conspiracy and aggravated identity theft. According to the U.S. Attorney's Office Middle District of Florida, Stevens was working as a personal care assistant for an elderly person in Palm Coast in 2019 and 2020. He was accused of using their personal information to access their bank account, and, along with two other defendants, stealing $19,762.38. Stevens was taken back into custody on March 3, and has not been processed in Flagler County for the Planet Fitness incident as of this week. He has been served with his arrest warrant while in federal custody, the FCSO says.]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Gwen Graham Reportedly Joining David Jolly&#8217;s Gubernatorial Campaign</title>
		<link>https://995wlov.com/2026/06/09/gwen-graham-reportedly-joining-david-jollys-gubernatorial-campaign/</link>
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		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2026 17:04:43 +0000</pubDate>
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		<atom:updated>2026-06-09T17:04:43+00:00</atom:updated>
				<category><![CDATA[News Daytona Beach - Latest Stories]]></category>

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			<description><![CDATA[David Jolly may be close to selecting Gwen Graham as his running mate in the 2026 Florida gubernatorial election, according to a report from Axios. Jo...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[David Jolly may be close to selecting Gwen Graham as his running mate in the 2026 Florida gubernatorial election, according to a report from Axios. Jolly is poised as the likely Democratic nominee for governor following the exit of Jerry Demings due to a cancer diagnosis. Gwen Graham previously ran for Florida governor in the 2018 gubernatorial election. Widely viewed as a favorite in the Democratic primary, she lost to progressive Andrew Gillum in an upset. Later that year Gillum lost the general election to Ron DeSantis by just 0.4% of the vote. Prior to her first campaign for state office, Graham served one two-year term in the U.S. House of Representatives serving Florida's 2nd district. She later served from 2021 to 2025 as Assistant Secretary of Education for Legislation and Congressional Affairs in the administration of President Joe Biden. Graham's father, the late Bob Graham, served as Florida governor from 1979 to 1987. He then successfully ran for U.S. Senate, serving from 1987 to 2005. Bob Graham passed away on April 16, 2024 following a stroke at his Gainesville retirement home. David Jolly's current campaign for Florida governor is his first run for political office since joining the Democratic Party in 2025. He served from 2014 to 2017 in the U.S. House as a Republican, frequently labeled one of the most moderate and bipartisan legislators in Congress. Jolly identified as an Independent from 2018 to 2022, and then spent three years working with Andrew Yang on the Forward Party, a startup centrist third party. In Democratic primary polls over the last few months Jolly has maintained a healthy lead over Jerry Demings, positioning him as the front-runner for the nomination. This became all but solidified last week when Demings gave up his bid. Congressman Byron Donalds is the current polling leader in the Republican primary.]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>2 Missing Boaters Found Safe Off Ormond Beach</title>
		<link>https://995wlov.com/2026/06/09/2-boaters-missing-off-new-smyrna-beach/</link>
		<comments>https://995wlov.com/2026/06/09/2-boaters-missing-off-new-smyrna-beach/#respond</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2026 16:09:20 +0000</pubDate>
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		<atom:updated>2026-06-09T16:09:00+00:00</atom:updated>
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			<description><![CDATA[UPDATE: The two boaters have been found safe, according to the New Smyrna Beach Police Department. Both occupants, shown in a photo release to be male...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[UPDATE: The two boaters have been found safe, according to the New Smyrna Beach Police Department. Both occupants, shown in a photo release to be male, were said to be in good health. The pair were spotted by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission via aircraft around 25 miles off the coast of Ormond Beach.   Two boaters have gone missing off the coast of New Smyrna Beach, according to a report from the New Smyrna Beach Police Department. Several emergency response agencies have joined the search as of Tuesday morning. According to the NSBPD, the boaters were last seen and heard from at around 6:00 a.m. on Monday, June 8th. They were said to have left from Lake Helen around that time. In the time since the boaters' departure, their vehicle and boat trailer have been located at the Swoop Boat Ramp in New Smyrna Beach. Organizations working to locate the two boaters include the United States Coast Guard, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, Volusia Sheriff's Office, and New Smyrna Beach Police Department Marine Unit. The two occupants of the boat reportedly planned on fishing 30 miles offshore. The NSBPD says it's not currently known how far the two boaters made it offshore. Their vessel is said to be a white, 25-foot Carolina Classic model. As of Tuesday morning, little other information is available about the case including the identities of the missing. Those who believe they have information about the missing boaters are asked to call 911. More information will be added to this and/or subsequent reports.]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Father&#8217;s Day Lacrosse Tournament Upcoming in Palm Coast</title>
		<link>https://995wlov.com/2026/06/08/fathers-day-lacrosse-tournament-upcoming-in-palm-coast/</link>
		<comments>https://995wlov.com/2026/06/08/fathers-day-lacrosse-tournament-upcoming-in-palm-coast/#respond</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 08 Jun 2026 13:55:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Syndicated Content</dc:creator>
		<atom:updated>2026-06-08T13:55:44+00:00</atom:updated>
				<category><![CDATA[News Daytona Beach - Latest Stories]]></category>

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			<description><![CDATA[The 18th annual Father's Day Lacrosse Tournament is upcoming in Palm Coast, the city government announced late last week. The yearly competition will ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[The 18th annual Father's Day Lacrosse Tournament is upcoming in Palm Coast, the city government announced late last week. The yearly competition will have its latest edition on Saturday, June 20 and Sunday, June 21 at the Indian Trails Sports Complex. Admission is free for all spectators. The tournament is organized by Florida United Lacrosse, which coordinates and holds lacrosse events around the Sunshine State. Over 150 youth teams will be arriving in Palm Coast to participate in what has become the largest tournament of its kind in all of Florida. When play begins later this month, a series of divisions will take to the field ranging from 8U divisions to high school competition. This will be just the first of three major lacrosse tournaments hosted each year in Palm Coast; the city also plays host to the Pumpkin Shootout and Veterans Day Invitational. "For 18 years, this tournament has brought athletes and families from across Florida to Palm Coast, and we're proud to continue that tradition," said Palm Coast Parks and Recreation Director James Hirst "Events like this showcase our outstanding sports facilities, generate significant economic impact for local businesses, and create memorable experiences for players, parents, and visitors alike." In their announcement of the lacrosse tournament, the City of Palm Coast estimated that the event will bring around $1.8 million in local economic impact. This will be felt via hotel bookings, dining and shopping, and more.]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Jerry Demings Suspends Campaign Following Cancer Diagnosis</title>
		<link>https://995wlov.com/2026/06/08/jerry-demings-suspends-campaign-following-cancer-diagnosis/</link>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 08 Jun 2026 12:50:00 +0000</pubDate>
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		<atom:updated>2026-06-08T12:50:00+00:00</atom:updated>
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			<description><![CDATA[Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings has dropped his bid for Florida governor following a diagnosis of prostate cancer. He announced his decision on Frid...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings has dropped his bid for Florida governor following a diagnosis of prostate cancer. He announced his decision on Friday, saying he intended to focus on his recovery and his family.   "Earlier this week, I was diagnosed with a treatable form of prostate cancer," Demings wrote on Friday. "After careful consideration, I have decided to suspend my campaign for governor of Florida so I can focus on my health, recovery, and family."   The 2026 Florida Governor Election   Demings was one of two major Democratic candidates filed in the 2026 Florida gubernatorial election. He polled consistently in double digits in the Democratic primary, but generally trailed fellow Democrat David Jolly. Demings has served as the Mayor of Orange County since 2018, following just shy of ten years as Orange County Sheriff.   Prior to exiting the race Demings had received the endorsement of several prominent Florida Democrats. These included his U.S. Rep. Darren Soto, former representatives Al Lawson and Kendrick Meek, and former Florida Attorney General Bob Butterworth. He was also backed by Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orange County Sheriff John Mina.   Had he won the Democratic primary, Demings would've likely faced Republican Byron Donalds in the general election. Donalds is leading handily against several other GOP candidates including Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, former Florida House Speaker Paul Renner, and businessman James Fishback.   Bipartisan Reactions   "Mayor Demings has dedicated his life to public service, fighting with passion, mettle, and faith," wrote David Jolly on Twitter following Demings' announcement. "I know he'll bring that same spirit to this new chapter. Laura and I wish him a full recovery as we personally pray for Jerry and his family."   "Our prayers are with Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings and his family during this difficult time," added the official account of the Florida Republican Party. "We wish him a full and speedy recovery."   "Our heartfelt thoughts are with Mayor Jerry Demings and his family," the Florida Democratic Party said. "He has done incredible things for the people of Central Florida and built an undeniable legacy of service. We are wishing him strength and a full recovery."   "Layla and I are praying for Mayor Demings and his family," said Florida Lieutenant Governor and 2026 gubernatorial candidate Jay Collins. "Cancer affects far too many. We wish him strength during treatment and a full recovery."   "Valeria and I are saddened to hear about Mayor Demings' cancer diagnosis," said GOP gubernatorial candidate James Fishback. "We will be keeping him in our prayers throughout his treatment. I last saw Jerry backstage at an event in Orlando in January, and while we may not see eye to eye on everything, he is a good man who has served his community since 1981."   "Erika and I are praying for Jerry and Val," said gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds. "May the Lord watch over the Demings family, provide them with strength and comfort, and bless Jerry with a swift recovery."   "Throughout his career, Jerry Demings has led with compassion and strength, and been a tireless fighter for Orange County," added Democratic Senate candidate Alex Vindman. "Rachel and I will be thinking of him and his family as they face this challenge, and we wish him a quick and full recovery."   The Future for Jerry Demings   Jerry Demings has confirmed he intends to finish his present term as Orange County Mayor, which ends later this year. Having already been re-elected in 2022, he is prevented from running for another term by the office's two-term limit. In this capacity, Demings is the Chair of the Orange County Commission, and chief executive official in the municipality. Cities in the county's jurisdiction include Orlando, Winter Garden, Winter Park, and Apopka among others. It's also home to Lake Buena Vista, which contains the Walt Disney World theme parks and resorts. "Running for governor has been one of the greatest honors of my life," Demings continued. "I want to thank my campaign staff for their belief in me and my vision. I want to thank all of my volunteers, supporters, and well-wishers that I've known and met at every corner of the Sunshine State. And I want to especially thank my wonderful wife, Val, and my family for all the sacrifices they've made in the interest of public service for all these years. "Public service has been the privilege of my lifetime. While this chapter is ending sooner than I had hoped, my commitment to serving our community remains as strong as ever. I am a fighter, and now my focus is on winning this fight. Thank you for your prayers, support, and understanding."]]></content:encoded>
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