MARINELAND, Fla. – Just days before Christmas, the staff at Marineland Dolphin Adventure received an unexpected show of appreciation from the community they have faithfully served through years of uncertainty.
More than $4,500 in gift cards were distributed to 38 employees, many of whom continued reporting to work even during times when paychecks were uncertain. The holiday surprise came after nearly two years of instability tied to the bankruptcy of the attraction’s former parent company.
The donation drive was spearheaded by Flagler Broadcasting’s Kirk Keller, who reached out to community partners after learning of the staff’s struggles.
“This is one of the first places I came when I moved here 10 years ago,” Keller said.
The gift presentation reflected the relief and gratitude felt by employees who had stayed committed to the animals and the historic site despite financial hardship.
“It was not an easy time, pretty grim,” said Marineland Dolphin Adventure Director Felicia Cook, her voice shaking with emotion. “These employees have dedicated their lives to not just the dolphins. This is their life, and we love these animals. There’s nothing any of us wouldn’t do for them, including giving up our paychecks, so it just had to happen.”
Cook emphasized that Marineland’s survival was deeply tied to local support.
“The history here is so rich and Flagler deserves to keep it. Flagler is who embraces us,” she said.
Zoological Director Kelly Fischbach echoed those sentiments, thanking donors and encouraging continued engagement.
“That’s everything. Without community we would be nowhere. We’re super grateful for the community to support us. Please come out and see us. We’re excited for the future of the park to incorporate research and get back to our history there. We hope we see you here,” Fischbach said.
Among the contributors was Kathy Austrino, realtor and broker for TAG Ventures Real Estate and co-founder of the TAG V. Bear Foundation, who said the decision to help was simple.
“Kirk told me someone was in need,” she said. “That’s it.”
For employees who weathered the storm, the gesture was more than financial assistance—it was validation that their dedication mattered.
Donors included the Grace Community Food Pantry, Beachfront Grille, Johnny D’s, Palm Coast Elks Lodge 2709, Palm Coast City Councilman Ty Miller, Palm Coast Mayor Mike Norris, Flagler Radio Trisha Woods, Sheila Pillath, Tony Amaral, Friends of A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway, Inc., and Flagler Beach City Commissioner Rick Belhumeur.
