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Ormond Beach Accounting Firms Unite Under New Name

Two accounting firms in Ormond Beach are merging to create a stronger local presence and enhance client services. Holland, Tacinelli, CPAs, led by David Holland and Steve Tacinelli, will join forces with Klayer and Associates, Inc., under a new name: Holland, Tacinelli & Klayer. As part of the merger, Garrett Klayer’s team will relocate to Holland, Tacinelli’s office at 700 W. Granada Blvd., with the transition expected to be completed by January 15.

Sources indicated that the merger is designed to ensure a seamless 2024 tax season for clients, with no disruptions to services. This marks the third such merger for Holland and Tacinelli’s firm since it began in 2012, signaling their ongoing growth and expansion in Volusia and Flagler Counties. The partners emphasized their excitement about the partnership and its potential to better serve the local community.

Source: See Full Story at Ormond Observer

Ormond Beach Couple Defrauded $37K in Solar Energy Scam

An Orlando man is accused of defrauding an Ormond Beach couple of over $37,000 in a solar energy deal. Steven James Scott, 36, was arrested and booked into the Volusia County jail on December 31, facing charges of grand theft and organized fraud.

The case stems from Scott's sale of a $77,063 solar program to the couple while working for Powur PBC, a California solar company. After the couple paid an initial $24,519, Scott allegedly collected $37,044 in cash, claiming it was a third payment. Powur PBC later confirmed they did not authorize the payment or accept cash, leaving the couple to sue the company to resume the halted installation.

Investigators uncovered text messages, receipts, and other evidence supporting the allegations. Authorities believe Scott intentionally misappropriated the funds, leaving the couple financially stranded.

Source:  See Full Story at Daytona News-Journal

New Florida Law Sparks Debate Over Public Oversight of Police

Florida’s new "HALO" law, effective January 1, 2025, establishes a 25-foot buffer zone around first responders actively performing their duties. Violators who refuse to move after being warned face up to 60 days in jail or a $500 fine. Supporters argue the law enhances safety and prevents interference, while critics, including the ACLU of Florida, say it limits public oversight of police conduct.

The law, SB 184, broadly defines harassment as actions causing emotional distress to first responders without a “legitimate purpose,” but terms like "emotional distress" remain undefined. Amendments to protect questioning or filming responders were rejected.

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the bill alongside legislation reducing the power of citizen police oversight boards. Though the HALO law does not ban recording officers, it mandates a 25-foot distance, complicating efforts to document potential misconduct. Critics warn the law undermines transparency and accountability in law enforcement.

Source:  See Story at Daytona News-Journal

Are You Middle Class in Florida? Income Guidelines Explained

Defining the middle class in Florida varies by income and location. Nationally, the middle class includes households earning two-thirds to double the U.S. median income, ranging from $56,600 to $169,800 annually. In Florida, where the median income is lower, the middle-class range spans $46,917 to $138,600, with a state median of $69,303.

National trends show a shrinking middle class, with Pew Research noting that the share of adults in middle-class households dropped from 61% in 1971 to 50% in 2021, while upper-income and lower-income households both grew.

Florida’s minimum wage, set at $13 an hour for non-tipped workers in January 2025, highlights income disparities. Middle-class status also depends on regional costs and family size. Income calculators can help residents determine where they fall in their city’s economic spectrum as economic inequality continues to shape the landscape.

Source:  See Full Story at Daytona News-Journal

SpaceX to Launch 20th Flight of Falcon 9 Booster Tonight

SpaceX plans to launch its Falcon 9 rocket tonight from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, delivering the "Thuraya 4" satellite for UAE-based Yahsat. This marks the sixth satellite deployment for the company, which highlights its commitment to innovation in aerospace technology.

The four-hour launch window opens at 8:27 p.m., with a backup opportunity on Saturday evening if needed. The Falcon 9 rocket’s first-stage booster, making its 20th flight, has a storied history, having previously supported missions such as SES-22, ispace’s HAKUTO-R Mission 1, Amazonas-6, CRS-27, Bandwagon-1, GSAT-20, and numerous Starlink deployments.

This mission highlights SpaceX’s leadership in reusable rocket technology and its role in facilitating global satellite launches, further solidifying its presence on the Space Coast.

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