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Wednesday, April 1, 2026
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Flagler County Seniors vs. Crime Volunteer Saves Life While on Vacation

By
Joseph Bober
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Mark Dyberg, a volunteer at the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office with Seniors vs. Crime, poses outside the Flagler County Sheriff’s Operations Center in Bunnell.

BUNNELL, Fla. — While vacationing in Puerto Rico, Mark Dyberg, a volunteer at the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office with Seniors vs. Crime, heroically saved a woman from drowning.

On March 18, Dyberg was vacationing with his wife in the Condado Beach area of San Juan, Puerto Rico. That evening, while reading at the hotel pool, he heard cries for help coming from a jetty in the ocean and learned that three people were in distress in the water: two women and one man who had jumped in to attempt to rescue them. Dyberg alerted a hotel employee to call authorities, then grabbed water rescue equipment from the pool and went to render aid.

Before Dyberg arrived at the jetty, one of the women had already been pulled to shore. One of the individuals still in the water, the man, was no longer calling out for help, while the other woman could barely be heard. Dyberg headed into the water with two lifebuoys in the direction of the voice he could still hear. He swam 150 yards through swells of up to 6 feet and, despite the darkness, located the woman. He then brought her near the shore until they were close enough to be pulled from the water by authorities with the Puerto Rico Emergency Management Bureau.

Mark Dyberg, a volunteer at the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office with Seniors vs. Crime, poses outside the Flagler County Sheriff’s Operations Center in Bunnell.

Sadly, the other man who had attempted to rescue the women was swept away by a wave and currents. After a multi-agency search, he was found deceased the next day, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.

“This rescue is a testament to Mark’s selflessness, courage, and resourcefulness. Even further, his decision to run toward danger demonstrates the character of everyone we have working and volunteering at the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, as they are all willing to help our citizens and anyone in need,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “Our thoughts are with the family of the other man who tried to help and lost his life during this tragic situation.”

The Seniors vs. Crime Project is a partnership with the Florida Attorney General and law enforcement, with the goal to reduce the victimization of senior citizens who are targeted because of their age. Seniors vs. Crime partners closely work with law enforcement throughout the state, as most project offices are co-located in sheriff’s office or police department facilities. The Seniors vs. Crime Flagler County Project Office is located at the Flagler County Sheriff’s Operations Center in Bunnell.

Dyberg has volunteered with Seniors vs. Crime in the Flagler County Project Office since October 2023.

Homegrown Talent to Lead Operations and Human Resources for Flagler Schools

By
Don Foley
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Bunnell, FL – During tonight’s School Board meeting at the Government
Services Building, Superintendent LaShakia Moore will be recommending for hire two Flagler County leaders to be appointed to pivotal executive roles. Current Flagler Schools Human Resources Supervisor Joshua Walker has been named the incoming Chief of Human Resources, and former Acting City Manager of Palm Coast Lauren Johnston will serve as the next Chief of Operations.

Both appointees are proud products of the Flagler Schools system and graduates of Matanzas High School, marking a significant moment for the district’s leadership pipeline. Both have children who also currently attend Flagler Schools.

The appointments come as two veteran administrators prepare for retirement. Bob Ouellette, Chief of Human Resources, and Dave Freeman, Chief of Operations, will both conclude their careers on July 1, 2026.

Since joining Flagler Schools in 2020, Ouellette has been a stabilizing force in personnel management for Flagler County’s largest employer, serving as Coordinator of Professional Standards before becoming Chief of Human Resources in 2022.

With more than a decade of experience under his belt with Flagler Schools, Freeman, a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel and highly decorated combat veteran, served in district leadership roles in Transportation and Maintenance before assuming the role of Chief of Operations in 2023.

To ensure a seamless transition of district services, both Walker and Johnston are scheduled to begin their new roles on April 20, allowing for a ten-week mentorship period alongside their predecessors.

“Finding the right leaders to build upon the foundations laid by Mr. Ouellette and Mr. Freeman was a top priority,” said Superintendent LaShakia Moore. “In Mr. Walker and Ms. Johnston, we have two individuals who not only possess the professional expertise required for these important roles, but also a deep, personal investment in our community. They understand where we’ve been and have the vision to take us where we need to go.”

A veteran of the district for over a decade, Walker’s career has been defined by a commitment to the educators and staff of Flagler County. “I am incredibly honored and enthusiastic about this opportunity to serve the district that shaped me,” said Walker. “My goal is to help move our schools forward by recruiting and supporting the best talent possible, ensuring Flagler Schools remains a premier destination for educators and students.”

Johnston returns to her roots in Flagler Schools after a distinguished tenure with the City of Palm Coast, where she served as Assistant City Manager and Acting City Manager. She holds the distinction of being a member of the very first graduating class of Matanzas High School in 2008.

“Coming back to Flagler Schools in this capacity is a true homecoming,” said Johnston. “I look forward to applying my experience in municipal management to oversee the vital infrastructure of our district. Ensuring our facilities and operations run efficiently is key to providing a safe, world-class learning environment for our children.”

Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Florida Farm Bill

By
Flagler News Weekly
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SEBRING, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 290, the Florida Farm Bill, legislation that strengthens Florida’s agricultural industry, protects consumers, and reinforces the state’s commitment to food security, public safety, and rural land conservation.

“Today in Sebring, I signed SB 290,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “This important farm bill builds on the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ reforms to protect Florida agriculture, consumers, and rural communities. It also protects the health, security, and freedom of Floridians.”

“The Free State of Florida just delivered another major win for the people who feed our state and our nation,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “With the legislative leaders’ hard work this session and Governor DeSantis’ signature, the 2026 Florida Farm Bill is now law – protecting our farmers from government overreach, strengthening public safety, and preserving our natural resources and rural lands. I’m proud to stand alongside strong conservative leaders who understand that when you fight for freedom, family, and farmers, you’re fighting for Florida’s future.”

“What a great opportunity to have our Governor sign this bill right here in Florida’s Heartland,” said Senate President Ben Albritton. “Florida’s agriculture industry is the key to thriving families, businesses, and communities across our state. Agriculture matters, and that’s a fact. I’m grateful to Governor DeSantis, Commissioner Simpson, Senator Truenow, Representative Alvarez, and so many others who have prioritized Florida’s agriculture industry and the legacy farm families who dedicate their lives and livelihoods to growing the fresh, wholesome foods Floridians need. This is an exciting time to be involved in Agriculture in the great, free state of Florida. The best is yet to come.”

“Florida farmers don’t need more red tape, they need the freedom to produce,” said Senator Keith Truenow. “This legislation is about trusting Florida farmers and giving them the room to succeed, because when agriculture thrives, our communities thrive. I’m proud to partner with Commissioner Simpson and Representative Alvarez to support the backbone of our state, and grateful to Governor DeSantis for signing this important bill into law and continuing to champion Florida agriculture.”

“Florida leads when we trust our farmers and get government out of the way,” said Representative Danny Alvarez. “This bill slashes red tape, supports working families, and ensures our agricultural workforce can keep delivering. I’m proud to stand with Commissioner Simpson on this, and grateful to Governor DeSantis for getting it signed into law.”

Florida’s agricultural industry is a cornerstone of the state’s economy, supporting millions of jobs and feeding families across the nation. More than 45,000 farms and ranches have a $387 billion total economic impact on Florida’s economy. Senate Bill 290 enacts a wide range of reforms to support Florida’s agricultural community and consumers:

It protects agricultural freedom by preventing local governments from banning gas- and diesel-powered equipment essential to farmers, ranchers, and homeowners.
It preserves rural lands by limiting inappropriate high-density development in agricultural and conservation areas.
It cuts bureaucratic red tape for agritourism to help farmers expand operations and grow their businesses.
It strengthens domestic food supply through new investments in agriculture, including programs supporting veterinarians and food distribution.
It modifies access to emergency recovery loans following disasters to require U.S. citizenship or ownership.
It launches the Florida Native Seed Research and Marketing Program to promote homegrown agriculture and increase competitiveness.
It makes Permanent the Farmers Feeding Florida Program, ensuring Florida-grown food continues to reach families in need.
It establishes a loan repayment program for veterinarians who specialize in food animals and equine care.

The Florida Farm Bill builds on years of strategic investments in agriculture and land conservation, including hundreds of thousands of acres preserved through the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program to ensure that working farms and ranches remain protected for future generations.
In addition to supporting agriculture, SB 290 includes key provisions to protect Floridians:

It criminalizes cheating on commercial driver license (CDL) exams to improve roadway safety.
It strengthens enforcement against unwanted commercial solicitation to protect homeowner privacy.
It bans signal jamming devices that can disrupt law enforcement and emergency communications.

Media Release, Image: Office of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis

A Dream Delivered: BEDTOPS Mattress Owners Prove Business Can Be Personal

By
Danielle Anderson
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PALM COAST, Fla – At an evening filled with music, excitement, and community spirit at the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center, one local couple once again proved that generosity never goes out of style.

“My wife Judy, and I are the owners of BEDTOPS Mattress, and we’re giving away a queen adjustable bed tonight,” Gary Lemay shared with a smile as he watched eager patrons fill out the tickets. The prize—a mattress set valued at “somewhere around $1,500”—was more than just a giveaway. It was a reflection of the Lemays’ ongoing commitment to giving back to the Palm Coast community.

Gary and Judy Lemay.

Inside the venue, anticipation buzzed as attendees talked about dropping their names into the drawing.

“It’s crazy. Tons of people are coming over and filling out the tickets,” said BEDTOPS Mattress store manager Keith Raimundo, describing the overwhelming response.

For the Lemays, this kind of excitement is exactly the point. “It’s awesome. We love doing this. We’re gonna do it again next year,” Gary said, recalling a memorable giveaway from the previous year during the Peter Noone and Hermit’s Hermits show that unexpectedly made someone’s Christmas come early.

Amelia Fulmer and Judy LeMay are joined by “Ted, The Bed” for the grand prize drawing at the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center on March 22, 2026. (Flagler News Weekly)

But their connection to the event—and the venue—runs deeper than a single night. “Oh, it’s beautiful here. This is like going to Vegas. It’s beautiful,” Gary said of the performing arts center, sold out for The Eagles tribute show.

Judy Lemay echoed that sentiment, emphasizing their passion for community involvement. “As a business, we always want to be part of the community and do the best that we can,” she said.

That opportunity, she explained, came through their relationship with Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center director Amelia Fulmer.

“She works so hard to bring these beautiful shows to this venue… When the shows are over, I always watch everybody outside, and everybody’s always smiling and singing and happy… I have to remind myself, I’m not in Las Vegas. I’m in Palm Coast… Isn’t this the greatest little place in the whole world?”

When the winning name was finally announced, the moment was met with disbelief and joy. “Oh, I’m shocked. I never figured I would win,” said Susan Rotella, still processing her good fortune. Reflecting on the gesture, she added, “Oh, I think it’s truly amazing. In this small little town…”

Susan Rotella realizes she is the winner. (Flagler News Weekly)

For Amelia Fulmer, the Lemays’ generosity comes as no surprise.

“Well, first of all, they’re very down-to-earth people. I trust them a lot. They’re very trustworthy, and I would recommend anyone to go there,” she said, emphasizing that their support goes far beyond sponsorship.

Fulmer shared how the couple has quietly made a difference in other ways, from helping distribute free tickets to military shows to offering high-quality mattresses at affordable prices.

“They want to be out there because they want to save people money on mattresses,” she explained. “They are just as good as any high retail store… that’s just part of who they are.”

Judy Lemay shares a genuine love for the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center. (Flagler News Weekly)

Their love for the arts also plays a role.

“Judy loves music. Judy’s a musician… she loves this place,” Fulmer added. “It’s such a lovely couple.”

In a world where businesses often focus solely on the bottom line, the Lemays stand out for something far more meaningful—their heart. Whether it’s a life-changing mattress giveaway or simply supporting a night of music and joy, they continue to show that being successful in business can go hand in hand with being genuinely good people.

Bunnell Police Department to Host Seminar “Fraud Fighters: Protecting What’s Yours”

By
Chief David Brannon
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Screenshot
Screenshot

City of Bunnell Schedules Blood Drive for April 8

By
Flagler News Weekly
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Blood Drive Bunnell

Reminder: GIVE BLOOD. SAVE LIVES.

April 8, 2026 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM

The City of Bunnell is hosting a Community Blood Drive!

Just one donation can save up to three lives. Your 30–45 minutes could make a lifetime of difference for someone in need.

Date: April 8, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM

The Big Red Bus will be parked at 2301 Commerce Parkway, Bunnell, FL 32110 (First Baptist Church of Bunnell)

Appointments are encouraged! Walk-ins welcome as space allows.

Let’s come together as a community and make an impact.

Volusia Tiger Bay Club to Host Legislative Wrap Up April 9

By
Danielle Anderson
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REGISTER NOW

City of Palm Coast Announces 21st Annual Arbor Day Celebration

By
Shannon Martin
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Palm Coast – Palm Coast’s beloved eco‑friendly tradition is returning for its 21st year as the City proudly hosts the Annual Arbor Day Celebration on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in Central Park at Town Center (975 Central Avenue, Palm Coast, FL 32164).

This long‑running community event continues to inspire residents of all ages to connect with nature while supporting sustainable practices that strengthen the city’s environmental future.

This year’s Arbor Day Celebration builds on a legacy of conservation with a variety of activities designed to educate, engage, and entertain.

One of the event’s most anticipated attractions, the free tree giveaway, will return thanks to Flowing Well Tree Farm. Residents can receive a complimentary 3‑gallon tree in exchange for donating a non‑perishable food item, supporting local food banks and reinforcing the event’s mission of giving back to both the community and the environment.

In addition, free paper shredding will be available on-site, giving residents an easy way to safely dispose of personal documents while promoting responsible recycling.

Visitors can also experience the magic of the walk‑through butterfly tent, where guests are invited to observe these vibrant pollinators up close and learn about their essential role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. A special butterfly release will take place at 11:00 a.m., offering a memorable and uplifting moment for attendees during this environmentally focused celebration.

Families will enjoy a range of interactive, kid-friendly activities, along with educational booths and demonstrations that highlight conservation techniques, City environmental initiatives, and tips for cultivating a more sustainable lifestyle at home.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase throughout the morning and early afternoon, making it easy for attendees to spend the day exploring everything the event has to offer.

“Each year, Arbor Day inspires us to reconnect with nature and with one another,” said City of Palm Coast Urban Forester Carol Mini. “The 21st annual celebration builds on that legacy with new experiences, meaningful environmental action, and a renewed sense of community pride. We’re excited to welcome everyone back to celebrate with us.”

The City of Palm Coast invites all residents and visitors to celebrate the importance of nature, sustainability, and community at this year’s Arbor Day. Whether you’re picking up a new tree, learning about local wildlife, or simply enjoying a day outdoors, the event offers something for everyone.

For more information, please contact Palm Coast Urban Forester Carol Mini at (386) 986‑3722 or cjmini@palmcoastgov.com.

Stay informed with the latest news and information from the City of Palm Coast by following us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn. You can sign up for weekly updates by visiting www.palmcoastgov.com/government/city-manager/week-in-review

SCAM ALERT: Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Issues Warning

By
Flagler News Weekly
-

FLHSMV is warning motorists of an ongoing fraudulent scheme involving counterfeit court notices that falsely claim to originate from Florida county courts and related judicial offices. These documents assert that recipients have outstanding traffic or toll violations and demand immediate payment. The fraudulent notices closely resemble official government correspondence and may include:

• References to Florida Statutes and fabricated case numbers
• Threats of license suspension, registration holds, or default judgment
• QR codes directing recipients to unauthorized payment portals
• Unsolicited “hearing dates” or instructions to remit funds immediately

These communications are not issued by any Florida court, clerk’s office, or state agency. Residents are reminded that official government entities do not request payment through QR codes, third party links, or unverified online platforms.

FCSO: Weekend Roundup: March 21-22

By
Joseph Bober
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Robert Girgis (Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility mug shot)

BUNNELL, Fla. — Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputies made 11 arrests this past weekend between 6 p.m. on Friday, March 20, 2026, and 6 a.m. on Monday, March 23, 2026. Deputies handled 718 calls for service and made 120 traffic stops.

Career Criminal out on Bond for Drug Charges Arrested Again on More Drug Charges

On Friday evening, deputies arrested a frequent offender who was found to have multiple narcotics during a traffic stop.

A detective in the FCSO Problem Area Crime Enforcement Unit conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle on Pine Grove Drive in Palm Coast after it was observed committing multiple traffic violations. As the vehicle was pulling over to the side of the road, the detective noticed the subject in the front passenger seat reaching forward and moving around near the floorboard.

The detective and deputies made contact with the vehicle’s three occupants and asked them to exit the vehicle so a K-9 could conduct a free-air sniff. While they were exiting the vehicle, deputies observed paraphernalia commonly used to roll marijuana on the floorboard.

The front passenger, identified as Adam Jordan, 41, of Bunnell, notified deputies he was in possession of a pocketknife, so they conducted a search to ensure he did not have any other weapons on him. While doing so, deputies discovered a case and small plastic bag in Jordan’s pocket, both of which contained methamphetamine.

During a search of the vehicle, deputies further located more methamphetamine, a scale, and small plastic bags in various colors.

Deputies arrested Jordan for possession of methamphetamines with intent to sell, possession of marijuana (20 grams or less), and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, where he is being held without bond.

Adam Jordan (Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility mug shot)

“This guy is a known offender, and yet he refuses to change his ways and is out trying to peddle poison,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “As long as he continues to commit crimes and selling poison, we’ll keep arresting him. He’s been arrested over 20 times and was just released from prison a few months ago, and even in that short time he’s already been arrested twice. It’s time for him to go to back to prison again for even longer.”

At the time of his arrest, Jordan was out on bond while awaiting trial for a January arrest for possession of fentanyl, possession of marijuana (over 20 grams), and possession of drug paraphernalia. His bond has since been revoked.

Jordan has spent eight years in state prison following convictions for charges including sale of heroin, sale of drug paraphernalia, felony battery, and intimidating or forcing a witness. He was last released from prison in October 2025.

Jordan has been arrested over 20 times, with previous charges including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated domestic battery, domestic battery with body harm, DUI, grand theft of a motor vehicle, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of harmful new legend drug, possession of heroin, possession of marijuana, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, resisting an officer without violence, and violation of probation.

Man with Methamphetamine Arrested Following Traffic Stop

On Saturday night, deputies arrested an Orange Park man on narcotics charges following a traffic stop.

At approximately 8 p.m., deputies conducted a traffic stop on Water Oak Road and Mahogany Boulevard in Bunnell on a vehicle for operating without a tag light.

During the traffic stop, deputies made contact with the driver, identified as Robert Girgis, 29, of Orange Park. While speaking with Girgis, a deputy noticed a makeshift bong and grinder inside the vehicle. Girgis stated he had a medical marijuana card; the deputy informed him the marijuana was not properly stored in the original dispensary container. During a search of the vehicle, deputies located a grinder, which was found to contain methamphetamine.

Deputies arrested Girgis for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, where he is being held on a $3,000 bond.

Robert Girgis (Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility mug shot)

“This guy made the mistake of trying to pass through Flagler County with drugs in the car,” said Sheriff Staly. “ I commend our deputies for looking past just a simple stop and finding drugs that resulted in a felony drug charge and a trip to the Green Roof Inn.”

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Flagler News Weekly Editor: Danielle Anderson Published by Sunrise Media Group, LLC ©Flagler News Weekly, All Rights Reserved.
Contact us: FlaglerNewsWeekly@gmail.com
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