Mom fights for special needs job ‘pilot,’ city says it was a misunderstanding
Anni Suadi said her son Lance was employed under a new pilot program. City says the program never existed.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
An Ormond Beach mom came before the City Commission Wednesday night to ask that her special needs son be rehired at the Nova Community Center.
Anni Suadi said her son Lance Avery, who has Down syndrome, had worked at the rec center from October 2023 to November 2024, two hours a day for two days a week. She referred to it as a pilot program for employment.
“He never had an incident during this time of volunteer employment, which was to turn into paid employment after the pilot program was fully implemented,” Suadi said. “To this day, he does not understand why his dream job got taken from him and has an emotional breakdown whenever at Nova Rec or even gets near it.”
But, according to Ormond Beach city staff, there was never a pilot program of this
kind in place. Lance, 25, was taking part in an on-the-job training program by the Florida Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, a temporary program under the Department of Education to help people with physical or mental disabilities obtain employment. The program offers an opportunity for employers to mentor a special needs individual to help them develop career skills.
“I do think there may be a bit of confusion, per se, as to how everything came about,” Parks and Recreation Director Robert Carolin said to the commission at its meeting on Oct. 8. “So I think it’s important that we do bring that to your attention as we move through this.”
PARTNERING WITH VR Carolin said the city partnered with VR for the program.
Lance isn’t the only special needs adult who has participated over the years.
“We participate in providing the space to help the individuals learn special tasks that can be taken out of the city of Ormond Beach, out of the rec center, and put to use for job placement,” Carolin said.
“So what that, I believe in my heart, possibly could have been construed as an oppor-
tunity for employment within the city of Ormond Beach, but traditionally, that’s not the case and it hasn’t been.”
When the program concludes, so do the VR’s resources to help mentor and coach, Carolin explained. Lance’s on-the-job training officially ended in late March 2024, which included a threemonth extension. Then, he stayed on as a volunteer until November.
The city, which has a Special Populations Division, offers six programs for those with special needs, including social and sports clubs. It also recently received state appropriations for a new special needs population playing field at Nova Rec, to be known as the Miracle Field.
DISCRIMINATION?
Several speakers came before the City Commission to ask officials to rehire Lance at the meeting.
Lance’s job coach Chris Bond was one of the speakers. In a phone call with the Observer, Bond, who works for a nonprofit called Progressive Abilities Support Services, said that when Lance was placed at Nova Rec for onthe-job training, there was no pilot program in place, though one may have been in early
talks between the city’s previous mayor and Suadi, who also said the city stopped her from teaching a weekly fitness class for special needs after
Lance was let go.
“We understand that these things take time and they have an approval process, and that oftentimes will not become
available immediately, especially when you have interruptions like a changeover in new management, new mayor,” Bond said. “... From my end, I totally understand and support that it’s not readily available right now, immediately. If it were to become available in the future, I would fully embrace that and support the opening of that pilot program.” But, he added, that is optional and not a requirement for the city.
“Nobody is discriminating against anybody by not implementing the pilot program,” Bond said.
‘NOT THE ROLE OF GOV’ At the meeting, Deputy Mayor Lori Tolland said that she understood that Suadi came to the meeting hoping the commission would take a vote on the issue. But, that’s not within their realm.
“It’s hard on our hearts, there’s no doubt about it, because every one of us up here cares, including staff, and we deeply care about inclusion and success,” Tolland said. “But it’s not the role of government to provide jobs and training for individuals.” Tolland said she supported the city’s existing Special Populations programs, but that its parks and rec staff’s training and education do not include developing a work training program for adults with special needs. The city can, however, help identify additional resources.
Mayor Jason Leslie thanked speakers for coming out in support of Lance and the special needs community.
“We have a lot of resources here in Ormond Beach that do help the special needs community,” Leslie said. “... Unfortunately, there might have been some kind of misunderstanding along the way.” At Nova Rec, Lance’s job responsibilities included taking down pickleball courts, lowering basketball nets, inflating sports balls, shredding papers, sweeping floors and setting up for special events — that was his favorite duty, Bond said. He was with Lance every day at the start, making sure to establish a strong work routine, and then as the training progressed, Lance required only minor guidance during his sixmonth participation in VR’s on-the-job training program.
“Lance is a very capable young man,” Bond said. “He thrives on a strong routine in any place that can offer him that strong routine. He is a very hard worker. He is very capable and I know that we’re going to find success, whether in the future with the city, if that’s something that is in the cards, or elsewhere in the competitive job market. ... Lance makes his own success.”
Lance Avery worked at Nova Rec as part of an on-the-job training program for six months. The program was not a pilot for the city, but a program under the Department of Education. Courtesy photo
YOUR NEIGHBORS
BattleBots
Five-year-old Jack Servi, of Ormondby-the-Sea, won the 1-pound division with his robot Flat Head.
SUZANNE MCCARTHY
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The sixth annual Volusia Manufacturers Association Robot Brawl was held Saturday, Oct. 11, at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
Seventy-six student robots faced off in a single-elimination tournament across three weight classes: 1, 3 and 15 pounds.
Elementary, middle and
high school students in Volusia County designed, built and battled their own robots. Winners in each category received $1,000 for first place, $500 for second, and $250 for third.
Five-year-old Jack Servi, of Ormond-by-the-Sea, won the 1-pound division with his robot Flat Head. Servi, a kindergartner at Ormond Beach Elementary School, became interested in robotics after attending last year’s event as a spectator. He was coached remotely by Jacob Rogers, owner of Drop Kick Dojo in Jacksonville.
The event is sponsored by the Volusia Manufacturers Association, which provides
information, education, and networking opportunities for local manufacturers of all sizes.
In addition to the student competition, the Volusia
County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad conducted a demonstration of one of the department’s operational field robots.
THE
ROBOT
WINNERS WERE
1-POUND DIVISION
First place: Flat Head (Drop Kick Dojo)
Second place: Star Destroyer (DeBary Elementary)
Third place: Spinner 2.0 (Spruce Creek Elementary)
3-POUND DIVISION First place: Absolution (DeLand High School)
Second place: Rapture (DeLand High School)
Third place: Ryan, Jr. (DeLand High School.)
15-POUND DIVISION Firs place: Billy Drizz -(DeLand High School)
Second place: The Forklift (T. DeWitt Taylor Middle-High School)
Third place: The Ramp (T. DeWitt Taylor Middle-High
Robots in the 3-pound class battle during the sixth annual VMA Robot Brawl.
Last minute adjustments to robot Kick Back before they battle.
The winners of the VMA Robot Brawl 1-pound division, led by first-place winner Jack Servi (center). Photos by Suzanne McCarthy
Cypress Creek Programming and Competition Robotics teacher Kim Stears and STEM educator Dr. Connie Rivers keep track of the Robot Brawl results.
Smith’s 2 TDs lift Sandcrabs to 1-point victory
Danny Spada’s 34-yard catch set up Logan Smith’s 4-yard score with 1:08 left.
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Logan Smith scored on a 4-yard run with 1:08 left to give Seabreeze a 14-13 victory over Deltona on Friday, Oct. 10, at Deltona.
Smith, who ran for 100 yards on 14 carries, scored both Seabreeze touchdowns.
Jayce Gainer’s 34-yard pass to Danny Spada set up the winning score, which gave the Sandcrabs their first lead of the game.
“We had to come back to win. It was the first time we were in that position this
year,” Seabreeze coach Mike Klein said. “And when it mattered most the guys made plays on both sides of the ball. It was nice to fight back and go get it.”
The Sandcrabs improved to 4-3. It is the first time they’ve had a winning record since 2021. If not for a double-overtime loss to New Smyrna Beach on Sept. 26, Seabreeze would be in the hunt for a district title. New Smyrna forced overtime with a late touchdown and then blocked a Seabreeze extra-point attempt in the second OT period to win, 28-27.
“The New Smyrna Beach game haunts us a little bit,” Klein said.
Seabreeze has won two straight since that loss. In battling back against Deltona (3-4), the Sandcrabs avenged a 13-10 overtime loss to the Wolves in last year’s season finale.
“Deltona had good gameplan. Our defensive line played lights out. We were able to shut down the run inside for the most part and put a lot of pressure on their quarterback,” Klein said.
Aaden Baldwin scored both touchdowns for the Wolves on runs of 70 and 80 yards.
“They broke a few big runs,” Klein said “We were misaligned and they took advantage of it. They’re good enough to turn those into big plays.”
Deltona went for a 2-point conversion and failed after Baldwin’s 70-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. That turned out to be the difference in the game.
Baldwin’s 80-yard score on the first play of the second half gave the Wolves a 13-0 lead. Seabreeze’s Smith scored his first touchdown on a 1-yard run early in the fourth quarter to finish off a 54-yard,
five-and-a-half minute drive.
Smith averaged 7.1 yards a carry with a long run of only 16 yards. He also had three tackles on defense. This was the senior’s first 100-yard rushing game, but it was his third game in a row with 80 or more yards. He rushed for 95 yards against New Smyrna and 80 yards against Atlantic on Oct. 3.
“Logan was steady as he always is. He had a great game for us,” Klein said.
Gainer passed for a seasonhigh 74 yards. Eddie Parra had two sacks on defense and Matthew Wells added two tackles for loss.
Seabreeze travels outside of Volusia and Flagler counties for the first and only time this season for a game against Viera (4-3) on Friday, Oct. 17.
“Viera has won some big games and battled some big opponents,” Klein said. Viera and Seabreeze have had two common opponents. Viera edged Rockledge 22-21 in the teams’ season opener
(Rockledge handed the Sandcrabs their worst loss of the season at 47-7). Viera fell in its second game of the season to Deltona, 14-6. Seabreeze’s remaining games are at Pine Ridge (2-6)
on Oct. 24 and the seasonender against Mainland (4-2) on Oct. 31 at Daytona Stadium.
“We’re taking it one week at a time, but we want to finish the year strong,” Klein said.
Running back Logan Smith (6) ran for 100 yards and scored both Seabreeze touchdowns.
Seabreeze quarterback Jayce Gainer prepares to pass to a teammate.
Seabreeze linebacker
Logan Smith (6) tackles Deltona quarterback
Jeremiah Hancock (15) and forces a fumble.
Seabreeze running back Jeremias George (28) charges forward as two Deltona players attempt to bring him down. Photos by Sydney Tevin
FORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE
PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as
specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is October 16, 2025. Attorney for Personal Representative: Stp Stephen Florida Bar Number: 637475 Attorney for Personal Representative Lacey Rezanka 6013 Farcenda Place, Suite 101 Melbourne, Florida 32940 Telephone: (321) 608-0890 Primary E-Mail: slacey@llr.law Secondary E-Mail: kbrown@llr.law
Personal Representative
Barry M. Jaffe Barry M. Jaffe (Jul 24, 2025 09:57:19 EDT)
Barry M. Jaffe
Personal Representative Marilyn H. Wahrer
Personal Representative Attorney for Personal Representative: Personal Representative Stephen J. Lacey, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 637475 Attorney for Personal Representative Lacey Rezanka 6013 Farcenda Place, Suite 101 Melbourne, Florida 32940 Telephone: (321) 608-0890
Personal Representative October 16, 23, 2025 25-00493I
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION: CASE NO.: 2025 12337 CIDL TOWD POINT MORTGAGE TRUST 2020-2, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE, Plaintiff, vs. MARY LOU FANNING; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF MARY LOU FANNING; UNKNOWN TENANT Defendants.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to an Order or Final Judgment entered in the above styled cause now pending in said court and as required by Florida Statute 45.031(2), LAURA E. ROTH as the Clerk of the Circuit Court shall sell to the highest and best bidder for cash electronically at www.volusia.realforeclose.com at, 11:00 AM on the 04 day of November, 2025, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: ALL THAT CERTAIN PROPERTY SITUATED IN THE CITY OF DELAND, IN THE COUNTY OF VOLUSIA AND STATE OF FLORIDA AND BEING DESCRIBED IN A DEED DATED 06/30/1999 AND RECORDED 07/06/1999 IN BOOK 4452, PAGE 1171 AMONG THE LAND RECORDS. OF THE COUNTY AND STATE SET FORTH ABOVE AND REFERENCED AS FOLLOWS: LOTS 11 AND 12, BLOCK 10, SECTION ONE, UNIVERSITY TERRACE, PLAT BOOK 10, PLAT PAGE 108. PROPERTY ADDRESS: 615 N TUXEDO AVENUE, DELAND, FL 32724 IF YOU ARE A PERSON CLAIMING A
FIRST INSERTION
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE COUNTY COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024 14006 CICI COQUINA COVE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., a Florida not-for-profit corporation, Plaintiff, vs. APOSTOLAS P. BOUZAS, individually; DANA N. SANDERS, individually; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; and ALL UNKNOWN TENANTS/OWNERS. Defendants.
TO: PETER B. KAPPELMANN, whose residence is unknown and all parties having or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property described in the mortgage being foreclosed herein. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a mortgage on the following property: LOT 8, BUILDING NO. 2, THE TOWNHOMES AT THE OCEANS, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 41, PAGES 163 AND 164, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA
NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure and Award of Attorneys Fees and Costs, dated August 13, 2025, and entered in Case Number: 2024 14006 CICI, of the County Court in and for Volusia County, Florida, wherein COQUINA COVE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. is the Plaintiff, APOSTOLAS P. BOUZAS, individually; DANA N. SANDERS, individually; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; and ALL UNKNOWN TENANTS/OWNERS, are the Defendants, the Volusia County Clerk of the Court will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, by electronic sale on-line at www.volusia.realforeclose.com, beginning at 11:00 o’clock A.M. on the 12th day of November, 2025 the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment of Foreclosure and Award of Attorneys Fees and Costs, to-wit: Property Address: 1912 Cove Point Road, Port Orange, Florida 32128 Property Description: Lot 44, Coquina Cove - Phase I, according to the map or plat thereof, as recorded in Map Book 53, Page 123
through 127, inclusive, of the Public Records of Volusia County, Florida.
If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Avenue, Suite 300, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; (386) 257-6096 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing impaired call 711. /s/ Shelby Pfannerstill John L. Di Masi Florida Bar No.: 0915602 Patrick J. Burton Florida Bar No.: 0098460 Arthur Barksdale
Florida Bar No.: 0040628 Rebecca Blechman Florida Bar No.: 0121474 Nelson Crespo Florida Bar No.: 0121499 Brian S. Hess Florida Bar No.: 0725072 Helena G. Malchow Florida Bar No.: 0968323 Eryn M. McConnell Florida Bar No.: 0018858 Shelby Pfannerstill Florida Bar No.: 1058704 Toby Snively Florida Bar No.: 0125998 DI MASI | BURTON, P.A. 801 N. Orange Avenue, Suite 500 Orlando, Florida 32801 Ph. (407) 839-3383 Fx. (407) 839-3384 Service E-Mail: JDLaw@Orlando-Law.com
Attorney for Plaintiff, Association October 16, 23, 2025 25-00504I
RIGHT TO FUNDS REMAINING AFTER THE SALE, YOU MUST FILE A CLAIM WITH THE CLERK NO LATER THAN THE DATE THAT THE CLERK REPORTS THE FUNDS AS UNCLAIMED. IF YOU FAIL TO FILE A CLAIM, YOU WILL NOT BE ENTITLED TO ANY REMAINING FUNDS. AFTER THE FUNDS ARE REPORTED AS UNCLAIMED, ONLY THE OWNER OF RECORD AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MAY CLAIM THE SURPLUS.
If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300 Daytona Beach, FL 32114 (386) 257-6096 Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711. Dated this 07 day of October 2025. By: /s/ Lindsay Maisonet Lindsay Maisonet, Esq. Bar Number: 93156
Submitted by: De Cubas & Lewis, P.A. PO Box 5026 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33310 Telephone: (954) 453-0365 Facsimile: (954) 77 1-6052 Toll Free: 1-800-441-2438
DESIGNATED PRIMARY E-MAIL FOR SERVICE PURSUANT TO FLA. R. JUD. ADMIN 2.516 eservice@decubaslewis.com 25-00336 October 16, 23, 2025 25-00494I
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025 12455 CICI CITIZENS BANK, N.A., Plaintiff, vs. VICTORIA K. ZAMPOLINO; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF VICTORIA K. ZAMPOLINO; PINE CREST HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.; AQUA FINANCE, INC., Defendant(s). TO: Victoria K. Zampolino
Residence Unknown Unknown Spouse of Victoria K. Zampolino Residence Unknown YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a mortgage on the following described property in Volusia County, Florida: LOTS 21 AND 22, BLOCK 9, PINECREST, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 9, PAGE 183, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. Street Address: 419 Walker Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114 has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC, Plaintiff’s attorney, whose address is 3222 Commerce Place, Suite A, West Palm Beach, FL 33407, within 30 days after the date of the first publication of this notice, on or before NOV 3 2025, and file the original with the Clerk of this Court, otherwise, a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300,
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2025 12922 PRDL Division 10 IN RE: ESTATE OF NANCY JO RICHARDS, aka NANCY J. RICHARDS, and NANCY RICHARDS Deceased. The administration of the estate of Nancy Jo Richards, also known as Nancy J. Richards, and Nancy Richards, deceased, whose date of death was August 14, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Post Office Box 6043, DeLand, FL 32721. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF ACTIONCONSTRUCTIVE SERVICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 2025 12237 CICI LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. KIMBER L. ARVIN, AS PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA ASHCRAFT, DECEASED, et. al. Defendant(s), TO: KIMBER L. ARVIN, AS PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA ASHCRAFT, DECEASED, whose residence is unknown and all parties having or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property described in the mortgage being foreclosed herein. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a mortgage on the following property: LOT 107, DOUGLAS PARK NO. 3, ACCORDING TO PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 19, PAGE 65, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on counsel for Plaintiff, whose address is 6409 Congress Avenue, Suite 100, Boca Raton, Florida 33487 on or before NOV 6 2025 /(30 days from Date of First Publication of this Notice) and file the original with the clerk of this court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition filed herein. THIS NOTICE SHALL BE PUBLISHED
SECOND INSERTION NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025 12740 CIDL CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES LLC, Plaintiff, vs. ANGELINA M. VEGA A/K/A ANGELINA VEGA; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF ANGELINA M. VEGA A/K/A ANGELINA VEGA; SAXON RIDGE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, Defendant(s). TO: Angelina M. Vega a/k/a Angelina Vega Residence Unknown Unknown Spouse of Angelina M. Vega a/k/a Angelina Vega Residence Unknown YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a mortgage on the following described property in Volusia County, Florida: LOT 139, SAXON RIDGE PHASE TWO-A, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 49, PAGES 21 THROUGH 23 INCLUSIVE, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. Street Address: 694 Shawsbury Way, Deltona, Florida 32725 has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC, Plaintiff’s attorney, whose address is 3222 Commerce Place, Suite A, West Palm Beach, FL 33407, within 30 days after the date of the first publication of this notice, on or before OCT 30 2025, and file the original with the Clerk of this Court, otherwise, a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, (386) 2576096 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is
personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served, must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: October 9, 2025. HEIDI S. WEBB
Representative
S. Beach St., STE 202 Daytona Beach, FL 32114 Heidi S. Webb Attorney for Personal Representative
Bar No. 73958
Office of Heidi S. Webb 210 South Beach Street, Ste. 202
Beach, FL 32114 Telephone: (386) 257-3332 Email: heidi@heidiwebb.com Secondary Email: filing@heidiwebb.com October 9, 16, 2025 25-00491I
SECOND INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2025 12867 PRDL Division 10 IN RE: ESTATE OF KIMBERLY ANNE TENNANT Deceased. The administration of the estate of Kimberly Anne Tennant, deceased, whose date of death was August 8, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is P.O. Box 6043, DeLand, Florida 32721. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE,
DBPD officer arrested in Palm Coast
DBPD says Edward Lee crashed into a pole at McDonald’s and is facing a DUI charge.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
A Daytona Beach Police Department officer was arrested on Oct. 9 in Flagler County for driving under the influence.
Edward Lee, 35, crashed his pickup truck into a light pole just after midnight at the McDonald’s on Old Kings Road in Palm Coast, according to his arrest report. He is facing a second degree misdemeanor DUI charge and refused to provide a breath sample to Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputies, which is an additional first degree misdemeanor.
Lee, a DBPD officer since
COPS CORNER
10:03 a.m. — First block of North Yonge Street, Ormond
. A Palm Coast man brought his car for repairs to a local tire shop and all seemed normal. He received his service and continued about his day. But the next morning, he realized his Apple AirPods were missing from the center console of his car, according to a police incident report. Using the device’s tracking feature, the man discovered that his AirPods were currently at a Daytona Beach residence. The only person,
May 13, 2018, has been placed on administrative leave pending an internal review, a press release from the DBPD said.
Lee was off-duty at the time of his arrest.
“This type of behavior is not representative of the values of the Daytona Beach Police Department, and the officer will be held accountable,” the press release said.
The incident report began when, near midnight on Oct. 8, FCSO dispatch received a 911 call that a silver Nissan Titan was driving recklessly, jumping onto the curb and driving into the McDonald’s parking lot on Old Kings Road. When FCSO deputies arrived, the pickup truck’s front end had hit a light pole and Lee was the only occupant of the vehicle.
Lee told deputies that a woman had been driving the truck at the time of the crash but had gone inside for food.
other than himself, who had recent access to his car was the tire shop mechanic. He then returned to the shop where he met with the manager, and as they were speaking, he received a notification that his AirPods were on the move. Twenty minutes later, their location was the same as his — the tire shop. The incident report states that the manager confronted the mechanic privately. The mechanic alleged the AirPods were back home and offered to get them, but the manager informed him they had the AirPods’ location and knew he had them on his person. The mechanic, a 59-year-old Daytona Beach man, eventually left the store, “presumably quitting his employment,” the incident report states. After leaving the shop, the
A witness said Lee was the one driving the truck when it crashed, the report said.
The FCSO deputies who responded noticed Lee had bloodshot eyes, smelled of alcohol and had slurred speech. They asked Lee to perform a field sobriety test on scene, and he refused.
Lee was placed under arrest and at the jail he was asked to to provide a breath sample for a blood alcohol test, which Lee also refused.
Because of “Trenton’s law,” or House Bill 687, which went into effect on Oct. 1, a first refusal to provide a breath sample is now a misdemeanor charge.
The FCSO will be handling the criminal investigation and “the Daytona Beach Police Department will remain in full cooperation with their agency throughout the duration of their investigation,” the press release stated.
AirPods stopped transmitting their location.
The man wished to press charges.
OCT. 8
‘STEER’ED WRONG
3:09 a.m. – Intersection of Belle Terre Parkway and Eastwood Drive, Palm Coast DUI. A Jacksonville woman was arrested after she crashed her car while allegedly driving with a blood alcohol level almost twice the legal limit.
Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived at the intersection where the woman had hit a tree in the grass median while going southbound, spinning across into the northbound lanes, according to her arrest report. She told the deputy that she was going the speed limit but lost control when her
NEWS BRIEFS
Three new pedestrian hybrid beacons installed on Granada
The Florida Department of Transportation activated the first of three pedestrian hybrid beacons that were recently installed on Granada Boulevard between U.S. 1 and State Road A1A in Ormond Beach.
The activation of the PHB at the intersection of Washington Street will be followed by the activation of two other locations on Granada Boulevard, one just west of Beach Street and the other just east of Vining Court.
These signals are designed to enhance safety by helping pedestrians cross the road more safely while increasing driver awareness of pedestrians in the crosswalks.
PHBs remain dark until
power steering went out.
The woman failed a field sobriety test and was taken to the county jail where a breathalyzer test was administered.
Almost 40 minutes after the crash, the suspect blew a .144 BAC.
OCT. 11
‘A GOD SEND’ 9:09 p.m. – 1400 block of County Road 305, Bunnell Underage alcohol possession. An 18-year-old Palm Coast man and a 19-year-old Bunnell man were arrested for cannabis and underage alcohol possession after Sheriff Office deputies pulled them over for driving 7 mph over the speed limit.
The deputy noted in his arrest report that not only was the suspect pickup truck
a pedestrian activates the beacon by pushing a button on the signal pole. Once activated, the PHB alerts drivers to slow down with a flashing yellow signal, followed by a solid yellow. The beacon turns solid red, requiring motorists to stop and allow pedestrians to cross the street safely. The beacon will then flash red, at which time drivers may proceed with caution if the roadway is clear of pedestrians. To learn about PHBs and how to use them, visit alerttodayflorida.com/Pedestrian.
The PHBs were installed as part of a larger safety improvement project along S.R. A1A. Visit CFLRoads. com/447105-1.
going 42 mph in a 35 mph zone, the windows had “extra screening material” on the driver side window.
The deputy pulled over the truck and immediately smelled “raw cannabis,” the report said. The two men inside said they did not have medical marijuana cards, but one suspect — the Bunnell man – admitted to smoking marijuana in the truck a few hours before.
A search of the truck turned up 0.6 grams of cannabis, eight vape devices and numerous cans of beer and canned mixed drinks in a cooler.
80-year-old Palm Coast woman killed in crash
An 80-year-old Palm Coast woman was killed on Oct. 13 when her sedan crossed incoming traffic on Belle Terre Boulevard and hit several trees.
According to a Florida Highway Patrol report, the victim was driving south on Belle Terre Parkway, just north of State Road 100, at 2:55 p.m. when the crash happened. The report said the victim’s sedan veered left across the road, hitting two signs and driving into the path of a second vehicle before it hit the trees. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene, the report said. The second vehicle was a van carrying just one occupant, a 35-year-old Palm Coast woman. She swerved into a ditch on the right side of the road when the sedan came in her direction but only sustained minor injuries in the crash.
OCT. 12
The Bunnell man said the drinks were to celebrate his 19th birthday after midnight, but told the deputy it was “a God send” that they were caught. If they hadn’t been caught, he said, they would have drank the alcohol.
FOOTBALL PRACTICE
6:55 p.m. — 100 block of East Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach
Civil complaint. Police responded to a shopping plaza’s parking lot after a woman noticed her car’s windshield was cracked; her sunroof had sustained damage as well. The woman told police she had seen two restaurant employees throwing a football in the parking lot about 30 minutes before. While initially wishing to press charges, a police incident report states the woman ultimately just wanted her car to be fixed. Later, the employee was “extremely apologetic and willing to pay for the damages,” the report states.
The pedestrian hybrid beacon at Washington Street. Photo courtesy of FDOT
Fine teaches civics to homeschooled Flagler kids
The students, ranging from third to eighth grade, had gone to Washington to tour the Capitol building.
SIERRA
WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Amidst the government shutdown, U.S. Rep. Randy Fine made time to meet with a group of homeschooled Flagler County students to give a short civics lesson on Oct. 14.
The 10 students, ranging from third to eighth grade, are in a co-op group of parents who, once a week, meet at the Shepherd of the Coast Lutheran Church to share lessons. For a recent history lesson, the children’s mothers planned and took them on a trip to Washington, D.C.
Among their plans, parent Jen Herold said, was a tour of the Capitol building. Unfortunately, that was scheduled the day the government shutdown on Oct. 1. She said after calling and being transferred around, Fine’s communications director arranged to take the kids on a private tour of the Capitol building, despite the shut down.
Since then, she said, they had kept in touch and the idea of Fine coming to talk to the kids was brought up.
“We are going over history and government right now and with the shutdown,” Herold said, “we thought this would be a very cool opportunity for the kids.”
Fine went over the broad strokes of the federal government and what his job entailed before taking questions from the group: How did you become a congressman? How long have you worked in politics? What qualifications
does it take to become a representative? Do you like being in government?
The children also had questions about topics that are in the news and media: kids using social media, Charlie Kirk and, of course, several questions about the government shutdown.
“I think it’s pretty terrible,” Fine said. “Unfortunately, some of the people that I serve with would rather we spend money on people from other countries than keep our government open, and it’s a really terrible thing.”
Fine placed the blame squarely on Democrats’ shoulders for refusing to pass a continuing resolution: “The Democrats said, ‘We’ll only let you keep the government open for the next seven weeks, if you will promise to give free health care to foreigners who are here illegally for the next 10 years,’” Fine said. “And we said, ‘That’s crazy.’” This has been the national
rhetoric over the government shutdown, which began on Oct. 1. While Republicans have repeatedly said the shutdown is the fault of Democrats wanting undocumented immigrants to have health care benefits, Democrats are demanding extensions to some Affordable Care Act measures while stating those measures are not available to undocumented immigrants.
Fine was last in Flagler County in August, when he announced he’d helped get funding earmarked for Flagler County’s beach renourishment released to the county. In an interview with the Observer, Fine said that while the government is shut down, “That’s all stopped.”
“I want to be up there working on those kinds of issues,” Fine said. “But because the Democrats are keeping the government closed, there’s no one for us to work with.”
Fine said it was important for him to come meet with
the kids and their parents as they were his constituents. Meeting constituents is one of his favorite things about being elected, he said, and it’s important for people to know their elected officials are, after all, just regular people too.
“That’s something that I get very frustrated with people on both sides of the aisle about,” he said. “They forget that when you get elected, you just put on the title that you take off when you’re done.”
NEWS BRIEFS
SMA’s inaugural Gala of Light to honor community champions
The SMA Healthcare Foundation has announced that its inaugural Gala of Light, will be held on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at the Hammock Beach Resort in Palm Coast.
Proceeds from the gala, a black-tie optional event, will directly benefit SMA Healthcare’s programs and services in Flagler County, according to a SMA Healthcare press release. Guests will enjoy a memorable evening of fine dining, entertainment, and heartfelt
BIZ BUZZ
Atlantic Hearing to open new office location on Oct. 20
Atlantic Hearing is opening its new, expanded office space in Palm Coast on Oct. 20.
storytelling as the Foundation honors champions of care and celebrates those making strides on their journey to recovery. Sponsorship opportunities are available, and individual seats are $300. The emcee will be Jay Scherr, a business performance coach, consultant, keynote speaker and WNZF 94.9FM radio and podcast host. The theme of the night is “Together, we light the path to wellness and recovery.” The Gala of Light will feature special tributes to two honorees: Heidi Petito and Sandra Shank. Petito, the Flagler County administrator and a board member of the SMA Healthcare Board of Directors, will receive the Impact Award for her visionary leadership and commitment to building publicprivate partnerships. She “has played a pivotal role in advocating” for SMA Healthcare’s new Integrated Behavioral Health Stabilization Unit, the press release said. Shank, CEO and Founder of Abundant Life Ministries-Hope House Inc., will be honored with the Phoenix Award for her journey “of overcoming the darkness of abuse, pain, and suffering into a powerful mission of hope.” For more information, please contact Melissa Gabriel, Donor Relations Manager, at mgabriel@smahealthcare.org or 386-301-2253.
The office will now be located at 160 Cypress Point Parkway, Suite A108, in the City Marketplace shopping center. The move marks a period of growth for Atlantic Hearing, reflecting both a larger physical space and an expanded team serving the Palm Coast community, according to a press release. As part of its growth, Atlantic Hearing has added Heather Curry, a hearing instrument specialist, to the Palm Coast team. She has 13 years of experience and specializes in hearing instrument sciences. Curry “takes pride in exploring audiological challenges to find the best possible hearing solutions for each patient,” the press release said.
Curry joins lead clinician Jennifer Whaley, board certified hearing instrument specialist, who has been with Atlantic Hearing since 2024. The two have worked together at various points over the last 20 years and “look forward to welcoming both longtime and new patients to the upgraded facility.”
“Relocating our Palm Coast office allows us to better serve our growing patient base and continue investing in the care experience,” Whaley said.
“We’re thrilled to open our doors at City Marketplace and to have such an experienced team ready to welcome the community.”
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.atlantichearingbalance. com or call 386-585-4161. Send business stories to sierra@observerlocalnews.com.
The Flagler SMA Healthcare facility. Courtesy of SMA Healthcare
Congressman Randy Fine with a group of Flagler County homeschool students. Photos by Sierra Williams
Loss of grant funds may lead to cuts, fewer programs for Volusia arts
As Athens Theatre starts a GoFundMe to help all impacted groups, former County Council members ask current officials to revisit decision.
JARLEENE
ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Shock. Betrayal. Frustration. Those were the feelings that coursed through the leaders of several local arts organizations when they heard the Volusia County Council had decided to cut over $611,000 of cultural grant funds at their Oct. 7 meeting. The last-minute decision — spearheaded by County Councilman Danny Robins’ concerns over thirdparty drag shows and LGBTQ+ events at two local theaters — left 33 Volusia arts and culture organizations wondering how to proceed with programs that previously were reliant on the county funds.
When Daytona Playhouse Board President Kathy Thompson heard that the council had withheld all of the grant funds, she was shocked. “I feel betrayed,” she said.
“We worked so hard to meet all their demands over the last two years.”
The county had tweaked its cultural grant program earlier this year. The applications, reviewed by the county’s Cultural Council Advisory Board, asked organizations to outline exactly what programs would be funded through grant dollars, based on past direction from the County Council that
these art organizations shift from using taxpayer dollars for operating expenses to community programming, with the goal that organizations would aim for sustainability.
None of the programs listed by any of the arts and culture organizations — including DeLand’s Athens Theatre and Lake Helen’s Shoestring Theatre, which were singled out for renting out their space to Volusia Pride — included any drag performances or LGBTQ+ events.
The list instead showed art exhibits, children’s plays, community concerts, programs for veterans, summer camps and history events.
“They’re definite programs, and I think that the way that the County Council portrayed the programming was disingenuous,” said Stephanie Mason-Teague, executive director at the Ormond Memorial Art Museum. “... I just felt blindsided. The way that they were suggesting cutting the funding was just completely and totally unexpected.”
Athens Theatre has started a GoFundMe to help all of the impacted organizations. The “Volusia Arts Lifeline” fundraiser has a $700,000 goal and has raised almost $17,000 so far.
The Observer spoke with six arts and culture organizations impacted by the council’s decision. Here is how the lack of grant funds will affect each of them.
DAYTONA PLAYHOUSE
The Daytona Playhouse had been recommended to receive $30,743. The funding was going to boost the 2025-2026 Playhouse series, a lineup of shows including “My Fair Lady, “39 Steps” and “Love Loss and “What I Wore.”
It would’ve been a funding boost compared to last year, Thompson said, as the Daytona Playhouse received about $13,000 in the 20242025 grant cycle. Knowing that they were recommended to receive much more this year, the Daytona Playhouse decided to do “My Fair Lady” for its big spring musical.
“That $30,000 was going to allow us to look at seriously renting beautiful costumes and being able to costume a very large cast,” Thompson said. “We’re going to have to take a serious look at how we can manage now that money isn’t going to be there.”
The playhouse’s expenses were over $200,000 last year, Thompson said, and the grant funds have historically also helped to keep the price of children’s tickets at $6.50. That’s something the playhouse will need to look at now.
ORMOND MEMORIAL
ART MUSEUM
In a statement, OMAM detailed how it utilized cultural grant funding in the past. The museum was recommended to receive $30,311, down from last year’s $34,514 grant.
The programs funded by the museum include its Free Family Arts Nights, veterans workshops, adult and youth art classes and youth summer camps. OMAM also offers scholarships to underserved youth and adults that may not be able to attend tuitionbased programs, according to the statement. Without the county grant funds, the museum may have to cancel, or decrease the number, of these programs.
“I think what people don’t think about is that free isn’t free to provide,” MasonTeague said.
OMAM was in the process of growing its veterans programming and outreach — that’s important to the museum, which was founded in 1946 as a tribute for those who served, with World War II veterans helping to build the galleries and clear the land for its gardens.
“The cultural organizations are providing programs that the county would not be able to provide on their own,” Mason-Teague said. “The programs add such as significant value to the quality of life for our residents. It’s almost comical to suggest that money would be better served fixing sidewalks.”
ORMOND BEACH
HISTORICAL SOCIETY
The Ormond Beach Historical Society was recommended to receive $11,036 in cultural grant funds, down from the $18,059 received in 20242025. The funds would help with its Pilgrims Rest Cemetery Tour, historical bus tours, speaker series, summer camp, children’s programs and family days at two local historic sites.
Board President Mary Smith said that they were “extremely disappointed” at the news.
“We’re going to have to amp up our fundraising abilities, because we have to make up the deficit,” Smith said. “It’s part of our budget and now it’s not. We definitely have to find new avenues and that’s what we’re working very hard right now to do.”
The lack of funds will cause a dent in their organization for a bit, Smith said.
“It’s going to give us a little bruise, but I don’t think it’s anything we can’t overcome,” she said.
DAYTONA BEACH
SYMPHONY SOCIETY
The Daytona Beach Symphony Society was recommended to receive $29,772, up from $28,148 awarded in 20242025.
These funds are used to offset the costs to bring in orchestras to perform in the community. Executive Director Mark Francis said it costs
FORMER
COUNTY COUNCIL MEMBERS CALL FOR GRANTS TO BE RESTORED
A coalition of former Volusia County Council members has written a letter to the current county elected officials asking them to reconsider their decision to withhold the cultural grant funding.
The letter, dated Tuesday, Oct. 14, was signed by 19 former County Council
about $30,000 a concert to host the Jacksonville Symphony.
“We’re under contract to bring five concerts to town, and we will do that, but it probably has more of an effect going forward into the future in the years to come,” Francis said.
The lack of county grant funds will likely mean less advertising and revisiting the free tickets that students receive as part of attending Volusia County Schools.
Overall, the council’s decision is “an enormously chilling effect.”
“I don’t believe that people will be as willing to begin programs,” Francis said. “I would assume some programs will be cut at various institutions. The effect it has as far as how it makes us look to the rest of the state, to anybody that wants to invest money here in a business? Well, they may reconsider that.”
BEL CANTO SINGERS
The Bel Canto Singers would have received $3,384 in cultural grant funds, down from $3,905 in 2024-2025. The grant funds were earmarked for the choir’s concert series.
The council’s decision came two weeks after the choir’s new director, Adam Stich, came onboard. It’s been “quite a jolt,” he said.
“It was very disheartening,” Stich said. “It affects our season a little bit as we move forward and we’re trying to secure some alternate sources of funding ... so that we can fulfill our mission of bringing music to folks in Volusia County.”
The Bel Canto Singers have been around for over 50 years and they’re one of the smaller of the over 30 organizations impacted by the loss of funds.
“We’re committed to doing what we have to do in order to create the best possible experience for our volunteer musicians and also for our concertgoers,” Stich said. “It’s a joy to have an organization like this here in Volusia County, so it’s something that more people can support by coming out and seeing the concerts.”
CIVIC BALLET OF VOLUSIA COUNTY
This was the first year Civic Ballet of Volusia County was applying. They were recommended to receive $29,271, which would have helped with their annual productions of “The Nutcracker” and its Festival of Dance in the spring.
Civic Ballet President Nelly Droznin said there was a gasp in the council chambers when the decision was made to pull funding. As a new applicant, she knew that the council would eventually sunset the program — all of the organizations were aware of that, and had been informed that available funding would start to lessen year after year.
members, including nine former County Council chairs.
“The recent action of the County Council to reject the annual award of community cultural grants was a shock to the system,” the letter states. “... We are certain when you will look back on your service you will join us as proud of these programs which improve our economic outlook and quality of life.” For full text, see Page 12A.
“But to have everything pulled from under everybody’s feet with zero preparation when all the programs are underway — it was shocking,” Droznin said.
The Civic Ballet has been in operation since 1996 and has always heavily relied on volunteers while raising funds through sponsorships. But putting on “The Nutcracker” is a big undertaking, Droznin said. The Civic Ballet has historically provided free tickets to local families and charities, and hosted three shows at the Peabody Auditorium. They’ve also brought in guest stars.
“We want the kids to have a professional experience,” Droznin said. “... Now, we have to rely heavily on finding additional sponsors that would be able to donate to our organization.”
The Civic Ballet doesn’t see itself as a charity.
“We are a giving organization, but we do need support,” Droznin said.
ARTS ARE NOT ‘CHARITY’
The $611,758 of grant funds equal 0.044% of the county’s operating budget for fiscal year 2025-2026, according to the Volusia Arts Lifeline fundraiser.
“For generations, the arts have shaped Volusia County into a place where imagination is nurtured, where children discover their voices, and where neighbors come together to feel inspired, connected, and part of something beautiful,” the GoFundMe states. “Now, those same organizations are fighting to keep their doors open, their lights on, and their programs alive. That’s why we’re launching the Volusia Arts Lifeline — a community-powered relief effort to restore what politics has taken away.”
The Volusia County Cultural Alliance has also started a petition asking the County Council to restore the cultural grants.
Thompson said she’s frustrated by the idea from some councilmen that these grants are seen as a “charitable donation” from the county. They’re a partnership between the organizations and Volusia, she said.
“The county is quite happy to completely fund baseball fields, sporting, recreational, beaches, parks, etc.,” Thompson said. “And yet they view the arts as some kind of charity. That’s depressing.”
During his closing comments at the Oct. 7 meeting, County Council Chair Jeff Brower mentioned that several of the organizations had existing endowments to help with funding.
While true, Mason-Teague said this was the county’s suggestion for sustainability — and a good one to show they are fiscally responsible.
“We have an endowment fund, and we are increasing our endowment fundraising and our goals and our initiatives, and several other organizations are doing that as well to cover operating expenses, but that still doesn’t cover all of your programmatic expenses,” she said. “That’s where the cultural grant program has been a wonderful partnership with the organizations in the county for years.”
Email jarleene@observer localnews.com.
Bel Canto Singers Director Adam Stich rehearses with his choir. Courtesy photo
Volusia may rename road after Charlie Kirk
North Beach from West Granada to Flagler line is a possibility. Brower asks for vote on Nov. 18.
JARLEENE
ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Next month, the Volusia County Council will consider dedicating a local street as a memorial highway for Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist killed in September at a Utah university.
On Tuesday, Oct. 7, Volusia County Council Chair Jeff Brower informed the council that he had requested staff place an item on the agenda for their Nov. 18 meeting, suggesting North Beach Street from West Granada Boulevard to the Flagler County line, which includes Old Dixie Highway, as a possibility.
“The reason I did that is because that’s already known as a place where motorcyclists have freedom rides,” Brower said. “... It’s a well used area, and for me, as somebody who grew up here, it was always an area that represented freedom in Volusia County.”
He added that he was open to other suggestions.
North Beach Street is already part of the Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail, which is both a Florida Scenic Highway and a National Scenic Byway. Brower acknowledged this, saying he wasn’t sure if making it a memorial highway was feasible.
One Florida county has already named a local road after Kirk. On Sept. 23, the Lake County Commission voted to designate Schofield Road to the state’s first “Charlie Kirk Memorial Highway.”
A Florida House Bill was also filed on Oct. 7 requiring state universities and colleges to rename roads after Kirk; if the bill passes, Daytona State College would need to rename Pinecrest Avenue to Charlie James Kirk Avenue.
Why should Kirk have a road in his honor in Volusia?
Brower said it was simple.
“I think one of the things that we need most right now in Volusia County and the entire U.S. is the ability to communicate with one another — to look at one another, eye to eye, especially when we disagree and hash things out and leave as friends, even when we didn’t change the other person’s mind,” Brower said. “...
Charlie Kirk was known for that. That represents his life.”
Flagler honors lives of Salinas and wife Nancy
‘Jorge had a quiet strength that made everyone around him better,’ Commission Chair Andy Dance said.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Flagler County Deputy Administrator Jorge Salinas and his wife, Nancy, were remembered as loving souls who lived a life of faith and service to others.
Jorge, 59, and Nancy, 60, were among three people who died on the night of Oct. 4 in a hit-and-run crash involving four vehicles on eastbound Interstate 4 in DeBary.
An estimated 150 people attended the county’s Celebration of Life for the couple on Sunday, Oct. 12, at the Palm Coast Community Center.
Flagler County Commission Chair Andy Dance said Jorge and Nancy “left us a legacy to serve with humility, to love generously and to walk each day with gratitude and grace.”
Their adult children, Matthew and Kalin Salinas, thanked the county for organizing the celebration and reaching out to them in the days after the crash.
“My dad loved working for Flagler County,” Matthew said. “He believed deeply in the work that he did and took great pride in every project. I know that if he was here, he’d be very proud, not just of the work that was done, but also the community that has shown up for us and the love that you all have given us.”
Kalin said their parents gave so much to the Flagler community, “and it’s clear that this community loved them right back.”
She said their parents provided them with an abundance of laughter, memories and adventure.
Jorge had a quote that he lived by, that he wrote in all of his work and personal journals, Matthew said.
“You’d open up the front page and you’d see it: ‘Build people up by encouragement. Give people credit by acknowledgment. And give people recognition by gratitude.’ And that was him to the core,” Matthew said. Nancy loved Disney World,
collecting Disney pins and trading with strangers, finding friends wherever she went. She loved to make jewelry and take on remodeling projects, Matthew and Kalin said.
“They both loved living in Florida, watching the NASA launches together,” Matthew said. “It was one of their favorite shared moments, both of them looking up, watching the rockets shoot up towards the stars. That’s how I want to picture them now, still looking up, still together on a beach, watching the rocket trails grow.”
Jorge served as deputy county administrator since 2021 after serving as deputy city administrator in Albany, Oregon. He previously served in the Air Force and worked for Hewlett-Packard.
County Administrator Hei-
di Petito noted that she and Jorge had competed for the same job.
“He ultimately received the offer,” she said, “only to turn around and support me when I took that job. That was who he was. He was always more interested in lifting others up than claiming the spotlight for himself. Jorge believed in teamwork and mentorship, and in doing what was right, not what was easy.”
Dance said Petito and Salinas made a “powerhouse team” and were perfect complements in managing county operations, planning projects and solving problems.
“Jorge had a quiet strength that made everyone around him better,” Dance said. “(His) leadership can be seen across the community in many different ways.”
Salinas had a background in IT, which was evident in some of his most notable projects, including rolling out county-wide broadband service, bringing digital service to the western-most part of the county that was in dire need of it, Dance said. Salinas’ pet project was creating the county’s transparency dashboard.
“It helped us as a county strengthen trust with our residents by basically creating a portal where every bit of information you could ever want to know about the county was … at a resident’s fingertips,” Dance said.
Salinas also worked on the
“They truly did complete each other. Even though we’ve lost the most important people in our lives. There is some sweetness in knowing that.”
county’s strategic plan, the beach funding plan and the annual capital improvement plan and modernized the fleet management plan. He was always ready during tropical storms to throw on a pair of boots and help with whatever was needed, Dance said. Matthew told a story of his father graduating high school at the top of his class and winning a scholarship, the only one available. But the girl who came in second couldn’t afford to go to college, so Jorge gave her his scholarship.
“Dad gave Mom a beautiful life,” Kalin said, “where she could be creative and free, while Mom kept Dad young at heart while caring for him and everybody around her. They truly did complete each other. Even though we’ve lost the most important people in our lives. There is some sweetness in knowing that.”
“I take comfort in knowing that they didn’t have to say goodbye,” Matthew said. “They just went on their next adventure together, just like they always wanted to — together.”
“He was always more interested in lifting others up than claiming the spotlight for himself.
”
HEIDI PETITO, Flagler County administrator
Charlie Kirk. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons/Gage Skidmore
From Flagler County’s Celebration of Life in loving memory of Jorge and Nancy Salinas. Image courtesy of Flagler County
County Administrator Heidi Petito said Deputy Administrator Jorge Salinas led by example. “He never sought attention or credit.”
Bunnell City Manager Alvin B. Jackson delivered the opening prayer and the closing blessing.
Flagler County Commission Chair Andy Dance welcomed people to the Celebration of Life for Jorge and Nancy Salinas. Photos by Brent Woronoff
Matthew and Kalin Salinas spoke about their parents love for adventure, which they passed on to their children.
KALIN SALINAS, Jorge and Nancy’s daughter
Make yourself at home
You be the Judge
Yankee Stadium and the youth field are hallowed grounds, just for different reasons.
Before the first game of “machine pitch” — one degree of difficulty higher than tee ball — Luke, my 7-year-old son, was stressed about his cleats. When he’s
not playing baseball, he wears Velcro shoes or slipons to school.
“Maybe you should learn to tie your shoes?” I suggested, not for the first time.
He wasn’t too interested, and we were late already, so I tied them again.
But, I added: “Do you think Aaron Judge ties his own cleats?”
We have watched lots of Judge highlights together, so I knew the question would resonate. For those who don’t know, Judge is the best player in the world. In fact, he is reaching stratospheric levels
of accomplishment, and if he has a long career, he will be one of the greatest players in history.
The message was clear: If you can tie your own shoes, you are a little bit more like Aaron Judge. Luke bobbed his head, yes, acknowledging that there could be some merit in learning. It was a cloudy, warm, Saturday morning, and before the game began, the players lined up to prepare, each wearing matching gray pants. Their hats were sized S, when it was clear some of them needed XS.
Normally, warmups involve throwing, to loosen up your shoulder. Unfortunately, catching a thrown baseball is a dangerous thing to attempt at 7 years old, and most of them won’t be very
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
The arts matter
Dear Editor:
Funding for cultural arts is an investment in the life of all citizens of Volusia County. The grants given by the county is a huge part of that investment. Volusia County should at all times support those funds.
When did the Volusia County councilmen actually meet with the citizens of this county, who they claim to support, to ask their opinion of the grant funding, which supports their children and families?
Chairman Jeff Brower claims that arts and culture support is not a “core government responsibility,” yet the council was able to find millions of dollars of taxpayer money to bring entertainment to the Ocean Center.
Councilmen Danny Robins and Jake Johansson made an issue about rentals made by two of the applicants to outside gay organizations claiming they weren’t “family friendly.” Will the councilmen hold the same “family friendly” standards to the Ocean Center when they bring in entertainment? This will be closely watched.
Many other counties are looking at the comments and actions not taken at the Oct. 7 meeting as these counties understand the importance of this investment to enhance the quality of life and economic impact in their areas. How embarrassing to be a
citizen in a county that does not support the arts. I challenge the councilmen to become knowledgeable regarding the importance of the arts to their constituents, as their lack of support is very obvious — they don’t get it!
LUCY JACKMAN Ormond Beach
Keep Volusia’s arts alive
Dear Editor: The recent news about the county’s halt on funding toward local arts and culture organizations is deeply troubling to me. As a resident of Volusia who grew up in the county and an artist myself, I believe one of Volusia’s biggest highlights is its promotion of the arts. From my youngest years, many of the institutions have been important promoters of both my and other residents’ artistic growth. Three quick examples: The Athens Theatre, where youth acting camps were held to help us develop an appreciation for live performance; the Ormond Beach Historical Society, which helped to demonstrate Ormond’s importance to Florida history and create a sense of community within the city; and the Atlantic Center for the Arts, which hosted multiple retreats for a wide array of artistic fields and allowed
artists to develop their skills. And I am sure many other readers can list their positive influences from the various groups denied funding from the council.
By cutting the funding to these groups due to political grievances with a handful of them, the council has created a “throwing out the baby with the bathwater” situation. Regardless of one’s political feelings toward the groups the Athens and Shoestring Theaters hosted, they were, by all indications, third-party events that were not the main focuses of these institutions. This also creates an uncomfortable precedent, as now arts and cultural organizations will have to think twice about who they host lest they be defunded by the whims of a persnickety County Council. Much like how individuals are guaranteed freedom of expression in America, arts and culture organizations should be granted the freedom to discuss ideas that are not popular and host whomever they desire in Volusia County.
I do not know if the County Council will reexamine its decision, but I will be doing my utmost to support the defunded groups in the near future, through either patronage or promotion to others. I recommend other readers do the same and keep Volusia’s arts alive.
SAMUEL OATLEY Ormond Beach
good at it until they’re about 9 years old. So these eager players were rolling grounders to each other underhanded, instead of throwing overhanded, practicing their fielding skills while still loosening up their shoulders. I watched as Luke rolled a ball to a teammate. The grounder wasn’t intended to be challenging to scoop up, but the teammate couldn’t quite get the timing right; he stabbed at the ball, backhanded, with his glove, and missed. It rolled behind him. When the teammate retrieved it and rolled the ball back, Luke apparently was transported to fantasy land. Instead of the Little League field, he was in the outfield at Yankee Stadium. This grounder wasn’t being rolled from a teammate’s hand, but it was a hot shot off the bat,
Rejection of arts: ‘a shock to the system’
Editor’s Note: The following letter was also sent to the Volusia County Council.
Dear Editor:
For 36 consecutive years, Volusia County Council members routinely approved programmatic grants to cultural, arts, and historical organizations. These grants have provided vital ongoing support for a wide range of programs throughout the county enjoyed by diverse audiences. The efforts of these outstanding local organizations with their associated programs and events are a cornerstone of our community and fundamental to our economy, education, and quality of life of our community. It’s part of the county’s identity as a recognized leader in Florida for culture and the arts. Looking back on decades of our service, we are proud of our support for these programs. In our early days, the County Council was regularly presented with lastminute requests for funding for specific programming during public participation at council meetings and during the annual budget hearings. In 1989 the County Council established the Cultural Council as the official arts agency and tasked them with establishing a program for review of annual funding requests. This action followed a recommendation from Leadership Daytona, together with an economic study which showed significant economic impact to
and he was Aaron Judge. Luke dove!
But, after he landed on his side and then held the pose in the grass, he found that his timing was off, too: The ball whimpered to a stop about two feet before reaching Luke’s outstretched glove. Sadly, no dive had been necessary.
One reason I love baseball is that it is big enough to contain the majestic athleticism of Olympian men, but also the slapstick dreaminess of little boys.
Luke might never become one of the all-time greats, but he will learn some invaluable things: how to be happy even after losing, how to try harder than you thought possible, how to draw a perfect circle in the infield dirt when the game gets a little boring.
Volusia County by cultural and arts programming.
For more than three decades, the economic rate of return for cultural and arts programming has been extraordinary. Every dollar invested in the arts produces $2 in return. A recent study by United Arts of Central Florida demonstrated that local arts programming had a nearly $50 million annual impact. Culture and the arts support nearly 1,000 local jobs, and hosted events attracted over 800,000 people. A recent exhibit at the Museum of Arts and Sciences attracted over 30,000 people from around the state. Images Art Festival annually draws a crowd of over 50,000. Atlantic Center for the Arts has earned a national reputation. While the economic gain is tangible, the benefits to our quality of life is even more significant.
Volusia voters have long demonstrated their support for funding culture, arts, and history. In both 2000 and 2020, voters overwhelmingly supported taxing themselves through the ECHO program, but these funds are restricted to capital improvements. Annual programmatic funding is essential to the vitality of these museums and venues.
The recent action of the County Council to reject the annual award of community cultural grants was a shock to the system. These organizations submitted their proposals for review through a rigorous process for grants from funds budgeted by the county. These are routine
consent agenda items. We urge council members to move to reconsider your recent vote and move forward to approve the recommended cultural and arts funding for 2025-2026. We are certain when you will look back on your service you will join us as proud of these programs which improve our economic outlook and quality of life.
Signed: Frank Bruno, Chair 1987, 2003 and County Chair 2005-2012; Judy Conte, Council 1987-89; Roy Schleicher, Chair 1988; Clay Henderson, Chair 1989; Deanie Lowe, Chair 1992; Phil Giorno, Chair 1994; Pat Northey, Chair 1996, 1999; Pat Patterson, Chair 1997; Joe Jaynes, Council 1999-2004; Jim Ward, Chair 2000; Carl Persis, Council 2005-2012; Josh Wagner, Council 20092016; Joyce Cusack, Council 2011-2018; Deb Denys, Council 2013-21; Ed Kelley, County Chair 2017-2020; Doug Daniels, Council 2013-2016; Billie Wheeler, Council 2016-2022; Barbara Girtman, Council 2019-2022; Ben Johnson, Council 2019-2022
Send letters to jarleene@ observerlocalnews.com.
Fire chiefs present awards at Kiwanis luncheon Flagler Palm Coast Kiwanis held its 18th annual Firefighter Recognition Luncheon on Oct. 8. Flagler County Fire Rescue Chief Michael Tucker, Palm Coast Fire Department Chief Kyle Berryhill and Flagler Beach Fire Department Chief Stephen Cox presented the recognition awards to the recipients in their departments. The Flagler Beach award winner was driver/engineer
Jamal Prince; the Flagler County Fire Rescue award recipient was firefighter/paramedic Adrian Brands; and the Palm Coast Fire Department award was presented to firefighter Osvaldo Sene. The chiefs praised their award recipients for their dedication and providing outstanding service to the citizens of our community. Tucker spoke about the cooperation between the three departments. They assist each other in providing fire and rescue service as emergencies arise. This is an unusual arrangement, he said. Kiwanis Awards Chairman Frank Consentino reminded National Fire Prevention Week is Oct. 5-11. The theme
this year is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”
Grand Haven Woman’s Club kicks off fundraising year
The Grand Haven Woman’s Club of Palm Coast kicked off its annual fundraising initiatives with Autumn Rhapsody, a festive evening of concert, dining, and dancing at the Grand Haven Golf Club.
Autumn Rhapsody featured professional singer-songwriter-pianist Joe Hite.
The GHWC supports charitable, educational and civic activities that make a difference in the health and welfare of the community. The club is composed of 180 women.
“While we host several annual fundraisers, we wanted to begin our program year with something fresh, GHWC President Awilda Hamilton said of Autumn Rhapsody.
“The evening featured fantastic entertainment, dinner and dancing — all of which contributed to a memorable evening. We are deeply grateful to our generous sponsors, whose support was instrumental in making this event a resounding success.”
Event chair Marie Lanier said the event raised $11,000.
In 2024-2025, GHWC
members volunteered 11,926 hours, donated $50,700 in raised funds and distributed $62,045 in cash and goods for community needs. GHWC has a full slate of events for 2026 including its 20th annual Day of Games scheduled for Jan. 23 at the Palm Coast Community Center.
Flagler Youth Center turns 20
The Flagler County Youth Center on the campus of Flagler Palm Coast High School celebrated its 20th birthday on Oct. 1.
“From the beginning, this center has provided a safe and welcoming place for students to learn, grow and connect beyond the classroom,” said Flagler County Commis-
sion Chair Andy Dance, who joined in the celebration.
Former Youth Center director and School Board member Cheryl Massaro called the center “the safest place in Flagler County for kids to be.”
Ribbon cutting for Matanzas
Spirit Box
Matanzas High School’s entrepreneurship and hospitality class held a ribbon-cutting Oct. 3, promoted by the DECA Club, for the school’s new “Spirit Box.”
The Spirit Box is a place where students can purchase school swag with the funds reinvested back into the program fueling future student innovation and growth. The Spirit Box was made possible through support
from the Flagler County Education Foundation, Hunter Grant, Intracoastal Bank, AdventHealth Palm Coast, and the Palm Coast-Flagler Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Washer, dryer donated to FPC ESE department
The Flagler Palm Coast High School ESE department has received a brand new, highefficiency washer and dryer to help support students in developing essential life skills, the Flagler County Education Foundation announced. The new appliances will provide hands-on learning that will empower the students with independence and real-world experience.
Flagler Palm Coast Kiwanis Firefighter Recognition award winners: Jamal Prince of the Flagler Beach Fire Department; Adrian Brands of Flagler County Fire Rescue; and Osvaldo Sene of the Palm Coast Fire Department. Courtesy photo by Maria Barbosa
The FPC High School ESE department received a new high-efficiency washer and dryer to help students develop essential life skills. Courtesy photo
LOCAL EVENTS
THURSDAY, OCT. 16
THIRD THURSDAY
DOCENT TOUR
When: 11 a.m. to noon
Where: Ormond Memorial
Art Museum and Gardens,
78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: This one-hour tour includes select pieces from OMAM’s Malcolm Fraser Permanent Collection, the John Wilton installation in the stairway gallery, a walk through the gardens to learn more about the Military Tributes, and a tour of the historic Emmons Cottage. No advanced registration is required. Meet inside the museum’s reception gallery by 11 am. Free for museum members; nonmembers are $3.
ART OF HEALING
WORKSHOP
When: 2-3:30 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial
Art Museum and Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Take part in this free art program focusing on self-expression, growth and relaxation, with a meditative component. Registration required. Visit www.ormondartmuseum.org/classesprograms.
Details: Learn all about Za’atar and the uses of the spice blend in this cooking demonstration, presented by library staff. Free.
PALM COAST CONCERT SERIES
When: 6-8 p.m.
Where: The Stage at Town Center, 1500 Central Ave., Palm Coast
Details: See the Southern Rock Revival band perform. There will be live music, food trucks, vendors, yard games, and beer and wine. Bring a chair.
ORMOND BEACH AREA DEMOCRATIC CLUB
MEETING When: 6:30-8:15 p.m.
Where: 56 N. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach
Details: Attend the October meeting of the Ormond Beach Area Democratic Club. Members will discuss concerning federal, state and local issues, with actions available to address them. The focus will be highlighted on outreaching messaging of values that support our democracy. Like-minded guests are welcome to attend. Club information can be found at ormondbeachdems.org.
Details: Don your ruffled tuxedos and vintage dresses to support breast cancer awareness and Charlene’s Dream during this 1980s-style prom. There will be two dance floors, a prom king and queen coronation, craft beer and cocktails. Tickets cost $20 per person. Tickets available for purchase at the bar.
HALIFAX REPERTORY THEATRE PRESENTS ‘ANNIE’
When: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 17, 18, 24 and 25; and 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 18 and 26
Where: Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center, 399 N. U.S. 1, Ormond Beach
Details: Halifax Repertory Theatre’s fall production is Broadway musical “Annie,” which follows a plucky redheaded orphan navigating a Depression-era New York in search of her parents. The role of Judge Brandeis will
be played by a different local celebrity. The opening show on Friday, Oct. 17, will feature Ormond Beach Mayor Jason Leslie. Tickets cost $35. Visit https://ormondbeachperformingartscenter.csstix.com.
SATURDAY, OCT. 18
43RD ANNUAL ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR
When: 9 a.m.
Where: Prince of Peace Social Hall, 600 S. Nova Road, Ormond Beach
Details: This fair will feature over 40 vendors selling handcrafted items and fresh baked goods, as well as a silent auction and raffles. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.
‘CRUISIN’ THE HILL’ CAR AND MOTORCYCLE SHOW
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Holly Hill City Hall, 1065 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill
Details: Hosted by the city of Holly Hill, the ninth annual “Cruisin’ the Hill” Car & Motorcycle Show will be held on the front lawn of City Hall. There will be live music, food trucks and the chance to vote for your favorite cars and bikes. Free admission. Proceeds benefit the Holly Hill School. Show car entry fee is $10 per car or motorcycle. Visit https://www.facebook. com/CruisintheHill.
STORYBOOK VILLAGE WITH ELC
When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Celebrate books and reading through children’s activities, face painting, a scavenger hunt and interactive storytime. Offered in partnership with the Early Learning Coalition of Flagler and Volusia. Free event.
GOD’S FAMILY BIBLE CHURCH PANTRY FOOD
DISTRIBUTION
When: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Parking lot across
Gods Family Bible Church,
256 Old Brick Road, Bunnell
Details: God’s Family Bible Church distributes food every first and third Saturday in this drive-thru event.
PADDLE INTO ADVENTURE
When: 12-2 p.m.
Where: Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreational Area, 3100 S. Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach
Details: Take a two-hour guided kayak tour designed for all skill levels over the age of 12. Registration costs $45 per person, or $20 if using your own kayak, plus a park entry fee. Call 386-517-2086 to register.
RECIPES AND READS
CULINARY LAB: THE CULTURE AND HISTORY OF FOOD — CHEESE
When: 2 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach
Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach
Details: Learn about the history of cheese in this cooking demonstration, presented by library staff. Free program.
MOTOWN & MO
When: 5 p.m.
Where: Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center, 5500 E. Highway 100, Palm Coast
Details: See this show sponsored by the City Lites Foundation featuring local men and women who will spotlight music from the Motown library of music and beyond. Tickets cost $30. This is a nonprofit scholarship fundraiser. Call 386-437-7547.
SUNDAY, OCT. 19
SOUND BATH
When: 12:30 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach
Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach
Details: Join certified sound therapy practitioner Nicole Comenole for a relaxing sound bath experience with crystal bowls. Free program.
MUSIC IN THE GARDENS
When: 1-4 p.m.
Where: Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, 6400 N. Oceanshore Blvd., Palm Coast
person, with VIP seating available for $125 per person. Visit buytickets.at/ormondbeachmainstreet.
MONDAY, OCT. 20
NARFE MEETING
When: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Houligan’s, 1643 U.S. 1, Ormond Beach
Details: The National Active and Retired Federal Employees Ormond Beach Chapter 2247’s meeting will feature guest speaker Cheryl Meeks, from the Bridgeview Center in Ormond Beach. The chapter is also sponsoring a Santa Drive for the center. Email Janet O’May, chapter secretary at janet.omay@gmail.com.
TUESDAY, OCT. 21
FOOD TRUCK TUESDAY
When: 5-8 p.m.
Where: Central Park, 975 Central Ave., Palm Coast
Details: Food Truck Tuesday, presented in partnership with the Observer, is back, and this month’s event supports the Fun Coast Down Syndrome Association. Order appetizers, main dishes, side dishes and desserts. Registration is not required.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 22
FALL BIRD WALKS
When: 8 a.m.
Where: Environmental Discovery Center, 601 Division Ave., Ormond Beach
Details: Join Master Naturalist Joan Tague of the Halifax River Audubon for a casual bird walk along the trails of Central Park. Water, walking shoes and sunscreen recommended. Free event.
VETERANS CREATIVE EXPRESSIONS WORKSHOP
When: 11-12:30 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
ATLANTIC FEDERATED REPUBLICAN WOMEN MEETING
When: Noon
Where: The Palmetto Club, 1000 S. Beach St., Daytona Beach
Details: Attend the October meeting of the Atlantic Federated Republican Women. Check-in begins at 11:30 a.m. This month, the club will feature local financial advisor David Holland speaking about his new book, “Smart Over Heart.” The fee, including lunch, is $28 per person. To register, visit www.atlanticrepublicanwomen.com.
MANIFEST DESTINY: AMERICAN ART OF THE 19TH CENTURY
When: 2-3 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Ruth Grim will lead this lecture looking at the different movements and great artists that came out of the 19th Century period as America grew to rival the artistic traditions in Europe. Free program. Registration requested. Visit www.ormondartmuseum.org/classesprograms.
PALM COAST CONCERT SERIES
When: 6-8 p.m.
Where: The Stage at Town Center, 1500 Central Ave., Palm Coast
Details: See the Chillula band perform and attend the Biz + Brews event. There will be live music, food trucks, vendors, yard games, and beer and wine. Bring a chair.
FRIDAY, OCT. 24
RUMMAGE SALE When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 24, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25
Where: Care Cupboard Food Pantry, 205 N. Pine St., Bunnell
Details: Care Cupboard Food Pantry is hosting a rummage sale with many new items. Proceeds will benefit the food pantry.
Details: Enjoy music, food trucks and a kid zone at this event. Bring a blanket or chair to sit on. Entry is $5 per vehicle.
Details: Create a unique art project with an OMAM instructor or guest artist. All materials are provided. No experience needed. Open to veterans and current service members; a family member or friend age 16 and older may also register. Register at www.ormondartmuseum.org/ classes-programs.
THURSDAY, OCT. 23
LITTLE NOTES & NARRATIVES
When: 10:30 a.m. to noon
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
COMMUNITY APPRECIATION NIGHT
When: 6-9 p.m.
Where: The Casements, 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach
Details: Sample fare from two dozen of Ormond Beach’s best restaurants during this fundraiser for Ormond MainStreet. S.R. Perrott will offer a tasting area with wines and craft beers. Each table also receives two bottles of wine to share. Additional wine and beer is available for sale. Tickets cost $100 peer
Halifax Repertory Theatre presents ‘Annie’
at PAC
Halifax Repertory Theatre is presenting its fall production of Broadway musical “Annie,” to open at the Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center on Friday, Oct. 17.
The show, with performances scheduled through Oct. 26, is based on “Little Orphan Annie” by permission of Tribune Content Agency, LLC, according to a press release. With music by Charles Strouse, lyrics by Martin Charnin, and book by Thomas Meehan, the show follows red-headed orphan Annie as she navigates Depressionera New York in search of her parents — winning the heart of billionaire Oliver Warbucks along the way.
Details: This program is for ages 3-5 to nurture creativity, rhythm and a love for music. Offered in partnership with the Early Learning Coalition of Flagler & Volusia. Free program. Registration required. Visit www.ormondartmuseum.org/classes-programs.
Details: Enjoy a trunk-or-treat presented by Realty Pros Assured. There will be a kids costume contest, face painting, popcorn, hot dogs, cotton candy, and a free showing of “Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice,” (Rated PG-13). Call 386-8713185. Free event.
Send nonprofit and arts and entertainment events to jarleene@observerlocalnews. com, or submit events at observerlocalnews.com/calendar.
“We are thrilled to bring this family favorite to Ormond Beach,” HRT said in its press release. “’Annie’ is more than just a show — it’s a celebration of resilience, love, and community, and we can’t wait to share it with our audiences.”
The musical features songs like songs like “Tomorrow,” “It’s the Hard Knock Life” and “Maybe.” Additionally, the role of Judge Brandeis will be played by a different local celebrity each performance. On opening night, Friday, Oct. 17, the role will be played by Ormond Beach Mayor Jason Leslie.
“Halifax Repertory Theatre would like to extend its
states. “None of this would be
Nathan Juliano as “Daddy Warbucks,” Sarah Ducan as “Annie,” and Jeff Duncan as “Wacky.” Courtesy photo
BUSINESS
Ormond Beach interior design company opens main hub downtown
Nouveau International Design was founded by Ormond Beach’s Rita Narcisse and Edgar Taylor in 2017.
JARLEENE
ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Nouveau International
Design, an interior design and build company with local roots and a worldwide reach, has made Ormond Beach its central hub.
Rita Narcisse and Edgar Taylor, a husband-and-wife duo, came close to basing their company in Jacksonville. But the couple has lived in Ormond Beach for years, and when looking for a space, they stumbled across the property at 26 N. Beach St., Suite A. They called to inquire about the space and Dorian Burt, agent of downtown developer Bill Jones, picked up the phone.
“Then we knew this is where we need to be,” Narcisse said. “We don’t need to go anywhere else.”
She and Taylor are familiar with the downtown. During the 2008 recession, they both waited tables in nearby restaurants — Taylor was at Rose Villa and Narcisse at Caffeine, a restaurant that used to be located where The Grind Gastropub stands today.
“We want the community to feel that we’re locals,” Taylor said. “We’re here to help
carpenter, trim carpenter, field manager, general contractor and five designers. Each has designed their office to their tastes.
Some of the company’s recent local projects include the Ormond Renaissance Condominiums, Avanu on Flagler in New Smyrna Beach, 35 Bistro and Wine Bar in Daytona Beach and Tiano’s at One Daytona.
“We want people to understand that you only have to come to one place,” Taylor said. “You get your design, get your architectural rendering, designing. You got your general contractor and then we
also got the trades that would come in here and do that.”
In the back of the hub, prospective clients and their designer can look through color swatches, flooring samples and other design elements for their projects, including smart home technology. Not all of Nouveau International’s clients are local — Narcisse and Taylor have worked with people wanting their homes redone in states like Colorado and Georgia.
Once the hub’s renovations are completed, Narcisse and Taylor hope to open their doors to other interior designers in need of space to meet
with clients as well as order from vendors, as some won’t work with small decorators.
“That’s unfortunate, because there’s a lot of talent out there that’s being missed,” Narcisse said.
They will also hold Continuing Education Unit events for designers to be able to achieve accreditation and have a podcast room. Narcisse and Taylor are starting their “Sawdust and Sarcasm” soon. They want to create unity in the industry and help upand-coming designers, Taylor said.
Visit https://www.nouveauinternational.com.
out the community and all around here. That’s why we stayed here.”
Narcisse previously worked for a design firm and later pursued her own swimwear company, during which she appeared on the “Steve Harvey Show.” But her passion had always been in interior design. Taylor’s experience in design and construction dates back to 1996, when he worked on radio commentator Rush Limbaugh’s home in West Palm Beach. Sitting together at her mom’s kitchen table, Narcisse and Taylor decided to start their company in 2017. For the next few, they ran the company out of their Ormond Beach home, but as the company progressed, they outgrew their available space. In April, they moved into their new space in the down-
town, for which they will celebrate a soft opening on Thursday, Oct. 16. And as true designers, their first mission was to remodel the space. They first tried to tackle the project on their own, but it was taking longer than they expected.
“Then our field manager came to us,” Narcisse said. “It was magic. Our electrician came to us. ... Everything just fell into place. We’re not forcing anything. The downtown Ormond Beach area really embraces the locals and embraces the businesses and they want to see them thrive.”
Nouveau International serves both residential and commercial properties in northeast Florida, including Ponte Vedra and St. Augustine. Nouveau International’s team of 11 includes an architect, an in-house electrician,
MainStreet to hold Taste of Ormond
The 12th annual Ormond MainStreet event will be held on Sunday, Oct. 19, at Rockefeller Gardens.
JARLEENE ALMENAS
MANAGING EDITOR
Taste of Ormond is coming back to Rockefeller Gardens, this year with a Hawaiian flair.
The 12th annual Ormond MainStreet event will be held 4-7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at 26 Riverside Drive, and have a luau theme. Taste of Ormond will feature fire dancers, music and entertainment from Polynesian Fire.
Attendees can sample dishes from over a dozen local restaurants and enjoy live music from singer Heather DeSantis. Each table will receive two complimentary bottles of wine, with additional options available for purchase, and S.R. Perrott will host a wine
and craft beer tasting area.
Traditionally held in the spring, this upcoming Taste of Ormond event marks the first time it will be held in the fall.
This will also be the first time participating for a number of the restaurants, including Alexander’s, Margarita Island and Novel Tea Book Shop, which has a cafe.
“It’s a good way to celebrate and promote the restaurant,” Ormond MainStreet Executive Director Becky Parker said. “We are always doing our best to advocate for ‘eat local, shop local,’ support locallyowned businesses. So we love that we have great representation from them this year. It’s also a way to just bring people together.”
Taste of Ormond is the only fundraiser for Ormond MainStreet, Parker said, with proceeds going toward the support of local business marketing grants, new district initiatives and community events, art and entertainment.
“The rest of our events are
not designed to be fundraisers,” she said. “They’re really for the community. This one is for us, and this helps us keep our doors open.”
Ormond MainStreet Board President Thomas Caffrey said their volunteers are a critical part of their organization, which is in its 30th year.
According to Ormond MainStreet’s annual report, volunteers performed work that would have otherwise amounted to a $156,000 cost to the nonprofit.
“I don’t know of a single organization in East Volusia that has the volunteer pool that we have,” Caffrey said.
For Taste of Ormond, he said there will be about 30-40 volunteers.
As for the food? Attendees can look forward to sirloin sliders from Alexander’s, cupcakes and shortbread cookies from Novel Tea, smoked spare ribs and pulled pork from RiverGrille, to name a few.
Tickets start at $100 per person. Call 386-492-2938.
Ormond Beach residents Rita Narcisse and Edgar Taylor are a husband-and-wife duo with decades of experience in design and construction. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
CORPORATE OFFICE - 386-677-SOLD (7653)
900 West Granada Blvd., Ste. 3, Ormond Beach, FL 32174
BEACHSIDE OFFICE - 386-441-SOLD (7653)
2110 Ocean Shore Blvd., Ste. B, Ormond Beach, FL 32176
PORT ORANGE OFFICE - 386-767-SOLD (7653) 840 Dunlawton Ave., Ste. D, Port Orange, FL 32127
COMMERCIAL OFFICE - 386-253-8565
140 S. Atlantic Ave., Suite 202, Ormond Beach, FL 32176
Lakefront luxury in Ormond Lakes! This 4BR/3BA pool home offers style and comfort with 11’ ceilings, engineered wood floors, and a newly renovated kitchen with quartz counters & stainless appliances. Enjoy a 2013 saltwater pool with new 2025 equipment, travertine deck, lake views, and a 2-car garage. Roof 2022. #1218083 $725,000. Jonathan Gildon 386-451-2412.
Charming 2BR/2BA home on 1+ acre in Ormond Beach! Includes a flex room for 3rd BR/office, granite kitchen, vinyl floors, fresh paint, and cozy stone fireplace. Enjoy a screened porch, metal roof, covered parking, and plenty of space for gardening or a future pool. Move-in ready and full of potential! #1216112 $405,000. Jennifer James 386-214-2041.
Beautifully updated 3BR/2.5BA home on a private Pelican Bay cul-de-sac! Features vaulted ceilings with wood beams, stone fireplace, Florida room with new LVP floors, and spacious kitchen with solid wood cabinets. Roof & AC 2022. Includes screened lanai, large lot, and walk-in tub in guest bath. #1218517 $342,900. Pamela McCowen 386-852-1399.
ESTATES
Price reduced! Seller offering up to $5K toward closing costs or rate buy down! Enjoy Tomoka River living with this remodeled 2BR/2.5BA home featuring 2 master suites, a saltwater pool, hot tub, boat slip with lift, and new roof, AC, deck, pump, and pavers. Relax or entertain in your private riverside retreat! #1212588 $450,000. Jessica Paugh 386-566-7582.
Rare oceanfront penthouse on Ormond’s No Drive Beach! This 3BR/3.5BA, 3,344 sq ft residence offers stunning ocean views, NEW floor-to-ceiling windows, and a 2,000 sq ft private oceanfront deck. Includes 2-car garage, storage, bar, and pool access. All assessments paid—ready for your modern transformation! #1213820 $1,111,000. Katie Brousse 386-566-3155.
Live steps from the beach! This 2BR/2BA Daytona Beach condo offers ocean views, gated security, 1-car garage, pool, and onsite laundry. Enjoy beachside living or use as a rental for extra income. Close to the Boardwalk, Pier, Ocean Walk Shoppes, and more. Your perfect coastal getaway or smart investment! #1218458 $250,000. Jennifer Himmelstein 386-212-6397.
REAL ESTATE
A house in Veranda Bay tops sales list at $1.6M
Ahouse at 94 Coronado Road in Veranda Bay was the top real estate transaction for Sept. 27 to Oct. 3 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The house sold on Sept.30, for $1,600,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a pool and 3,570 square feet.
ALEXIS MILLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Condos
A condo at 200 Ocean Crest Drive, Unit 641, sold on Oct. 3, for $1,350,000. Built in 2007, the condo is a 3/3.5 and has 2,246 square feet. It sold in 2009 for $700,000.
A condo at 28 Sherbury Court, Unit 28, sold on Oct. 1, for $160,000. Built in 1985, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,098 square feet. It sold in 2013 for $73,000.
A condo at 200 Riverfront Drive, Unit B204, sold on Sept. 30, for $585,000. Built in 2006, the condo is a 3/3 and has 2,015 square feet. It sold in 2024 for $540,000.
A condo at 80 Surfview Drive, Unit 514, sold on Sept. 30, for $400,000. Built in 2003, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,398 square feet. It sold in 2025 for $391,400.
A condo at 4600 E. Moody Blvd., Unit 140, sold on Sept. 30, for $147,000. Built in
BIZ BUZZ
Security First has a new chief operating officer
Security First Insurance announced several leadership promotions on Friday, Oct. 10, including a new chief operating officer.
Greg Moraski has been promoted to COO, reporting to President Melissa Burt Devriese.
“I’m honored to step into this role at such an exciting time for Security First,” Moraski said.
“Our teams are doing incredible work to innovate, simplify, and strengthen how we serve Florida homeowners.”
Moraski brings more than 35 years of insurance industry experience to the role, including five years with Security First Insurance. He previously served as chief claims officer and vice president of claims.
Security First also promoted: Dave Violette, vice presi-
2005, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,050 square feet.
FLAGLER BEACH
Beach Park Village
A house at 67 Signet Circle sold on Sept. 30, for $345,000. Built in 2025, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,541 square feet.
Reserve East
A house at 65 Pegasus Road sold on Sept. 29, for $549,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 5/3.5 and has 3,161 square feet.
A house at 38 Perseus Ave. sold on Oct. 1, for $414,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,055 square feet.
PALM COAST
Colbert Landings
A house at 16 Ararat Drive sold on Oct. 3, for $383,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,193 square feet.
A house at 4 Ararat Drive sold on Oct. 2, for $385,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,193 square feet.
dent of Business Systems & IT
Robin Pliapol, vice president of Claims
Candace Duncan, assistant vice president of Claims
Janell Simmons, senior vice president of People & Culture
Neurosurgeon expands options in Palm Coast
A new neurosurgeon has joined AdventHealth.
Dr. Seong-Jin Moon, a neurosurgeon trained in both brain and spine surgery, has joined the AdventHealth Medical Group serving patients across Flagler, Lake, Sumter and Volusia counties. Moon is now caring for patients at AdventHealth Palm Coast, according to an AdventHealth press release.
Moon’s office is located at 61 Memorial Medical Parkway, Suite 3808, Palm Coast.
Patients may schedule appointments by calling 386-586-4293.
Moon treats a wide range of pathologies, including brain and spine tumors, as well as general pathology associated with the
A house at 58 Oconee Drive sold on Sept. 30, for $389,990. Built in 2024, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,764 square feet.
Cypress Knoll A house at 19 Essex Lane sold on Oct. 3, for $635,000. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3.5 and has an in-law suite and 2,517 square feet.
Hammock Dunes A house at 10 Madeira Court sold on Oct. 3, for $695,000. Built in 1993, the house is a 2/2 and has a pool, a hot tub, a fireplace and 2,020 square feet. It sold in Palm Coast Plantation A house at 23 Eagle View Drive sold on Oct. 3, for $785,000. Built in 2015, the house is a 4/3 and has a pool, a fireplace, an outdoor kitchen and 2,680 square feet. It sold in 2025 for $827,000.
sold on Oct. 3, for $335,900. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,639 square feet.
A house at 13 Point of Woods Drive sold on Oct. 3, for $246,000. Built in 1990, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,641 square feet.
Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report
spine such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and herniated discs, the press release said. He has a special interest in minimally invasive approaches and procedures for the brain and spine that can mean smaller incisions, reduced hospital stays, and overall faster recovery.
“Choosing neurosurgery felt like answering a calling,” Moon said. “The brain and spine touch every part of who we are. Helping patients heal in these areas is like restoring the foundation of a home — it allows every part of life to feel whole again.”
To keep pace with Flagler County’s rapid growth, AdventHealth has brought nearly 25 physicians and advanced practitioners to the county in the past year.
With the local community’s population skewing older than the national average, and because brain and spine conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and brain tumors become more common later in life, having a neurosurgeon nearby is especially valuable.
Latitude Margaritaville
home sells for $675K
Ahouse at Latitude Margaritaville at 281 Compass Rose Drive was the top real estate transaction in Daytona Beach’s 32124 zip code for the week of Sept. 20-26. The house sold on Sept. 22, for $675,000. Built in 2020, the house is a 2/2.5 and has a pool and 2,067 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $378,600.
JARLEENE ALMENAS
MANAGING EDITOR
Bayberry Lakes
The house at 124 Springberry Court sold on Sept. 22, for $590,000. Built in 2006, the house is a 5/2.5 and has a pool and 3,302 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $340,000.
Grande Champion
The house at 433 Grande Sunningdale Loop sold on Sept. 23, for $375,500. Built in 2016, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,714 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $300,400.
The house at 121 Grande Berwick Court sold on Sept. 23, for $305,000. Built in 2012, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,761 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $215,500.
Highridge Estates
The house at 3743 General Marshall Road sold on Sept. 25, for $325,000. Built in 1977, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,386 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $297,500.
The house at 1437 Colin Kelly Ave. sold on Sept. 26, for $273,0000. Built in 1979, the house is a 2/2 and has a fireplace and 1,330 square feet. It last sold in 20021 for $254,500.
Latitude Margaritaville
The house at 150 Margaritaville Ave. sold on Sept. 23, for $460,000. Built in 2020, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,563 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $323,700.
The house at 521 Coral Reef Way sold on Sept. 23, for $530,000. Built in 2019, the house is a 2/2.5 and has 2,110 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $630,000.
The house at 520 Landshark Blvd. sold on Sept. 22, for $405,000. Built in 2021, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,387 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $280,100.
Links Terrace
The house at 101 Pitching Wedge Drive sold on Sept. 23, for $330,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,687 square feet.
LPGA
The house at 209 Perfect Drive sold on Sept. 22, for $330,000. Built in 2006, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,738 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $350,000.
The house at 148 Mendoza Circle sold on Sept. 25, for $266,000. Built in 2007, the house is a 2/2 and has 2,181 square feet. It last sold in 2008 for $169,475.
Mosaic
The house at 660 Mosaic Blvd. sold on Sept. 22, for $525,000. Built in 2020, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,974 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $345,500.
The house at 369 Aquamarine Way sold on Sept. 26, for $649,313. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,533 square feet.
John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.
John
Anderson
Drive
home
sells for $1.35M
Apool home at 3715 John Anderson Drive was the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea for the week of Sept. 20-26. The house sold on Sept. 22, for $1.35 million. Built in 2015, the house is a 4/3.5 on a .4 acre riverfront lot with a boat lift, a pool, a spa and 2,955 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $825,000.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Condos
The condo at 935 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 221, sold on Sept. 23, for $235,000. Built in 1981, the condo is a 1/1 and has 924 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $264,000.
The condo at 1133 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 506, sold on Sept. 23, for $465,000. Built in 1971, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,065 square feet. It last sold in 2012 for $189,000.
The condo at 1133 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 905, sold on Sept. 24, for $485,000. Built in 1971, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,065 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $280,000.
ORMOND BEACH
Halifax Plantation
The house at 3963 S. Chinook Lane sold on Sept. 23, for $540,000. Built in 2001, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,490 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $469,900.
The house at 1323 Cork Drive sold on Sept. 23, for $325,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,514 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $325,000.
Heritage Forest
The house at 180 Hidden Hills Drive sold on Sept. 26, for $390,000. Built in 1977, the house is a 3/2 and has two fireplaces, a pool and 2,058 square feet. It last sold in 2015 for $160,000.
Hunter’s Ridge
The house at 126 Briargate Look sold on Sept. 23, for $625,000. Built in 2022, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a fireplace, a pool and 2,028 square feet.
Plantation Bay
The house at 918 Brookridge Lane sold on Sept. 22, for $352,000. Built in 1999, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,882 square feet. It last sold in 2014 for $162,000.
Reflections Village The house at 34 Old Macon
Drive sold on Sept. 25, for $330,000. Built in 1998, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,583 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $165,000.
Ridgehaven 556 Brookhaven Trail sold on Sept. 23, for $430,000. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,190 square feet.
Spiveys Farms
The house at 9 Spiveys Court sold on Sept. 26, for $295,000. Built in 1999, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,617 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $200,000.
Sunny Shores
The house at 45 Tropical Drive sold on Sept. 25, for $390,000. Built in 1957, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,397 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $218,900.
ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA
Not in subdivision
The house at 38 Seacrest Drive sold on Sept. 23, for $270,000. Built in 1961, the house is a 2/1.5 and has 1,540 square feet. It last sold in 1996 for $74,400.
The house at 26 Ocean Shore Drive sold on Sept. 24, for $287,900. Built in 1954, the house is a 2/1 and has 942 square feet. It last sold in 1995 for $25,000.
The house at 44 Sunset Blvd. sold on Sept. 26, for $290,000. Built in 1973, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,488 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $245,000.
John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.
DAYTONA BEACH
ORMOND BEACH
Latitude Margaritaville
Daytona Beach is a 55-and-up community. Photo courtesy of Rob Harris
Scott A. Selis, Esq.
Scott A. Selis is an estate planning and elder law attorney with offices in Ormond Beach & Palm Coast. Mr. Selis was an Elder Law Attorney of the Year selected by the Florida Bar’s Elder Law Section in 2016.
Many Floridians assume that having a will is all they need to protect their family when they’re gone. Others skip planning altogether, figuring their loved ones can “just sort it out.” Unfortunately, that usually means sorting it out in probate court, which is a little like the DMV—slow, expensive, and no one leaves smiling.
A properly drafted revocable living trust can spare your family that experience. When assets are owned by your trust, they pass directly to your beneficiaries without court supervision. That means fewer delays, lower costs, and far less paperwork. It also means your family can focus on remembering you fondly— rather than your stack of legal documents.
Trusts also offer something most Floridians value almost as much as air conditioning: privacy. While certain probate documents—like the inventory—are confidential, the will itself and the probate filings are public record once the case is opened. That means anyone can see who inherited what and sometimes even how much. A trust, by contrast, is administered privately. No courthouse, no case number, and no chance for that distant cousin to “accidentally” stumble across your estate online.
Another major benefit is continuity. If you become incapacitated, your successor trustee can step in immediately and manage your affairs— no need for a court-appointed guardian or piles of red tape. With a will alone (or no plan at all), your family might be stuck waiting for permission just to pay your electric bill— something you don’t want to happen in August.
Trusts also make it easier to plan for blended families, special-needs beneficiaries, and long-term care. You can spell out exactly who gets what, when, and how—reducing the odds of family squabbles that make Thanksgiving awkward for decades.
A trust isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for anyone who wants to keep family drama out of the courthouse and their legacy out of public view. Because in Florida, a little planning now can save a lot of heat later—literally and legally.
Matanzas, FPC, Seabreeze, Lopez runners are ‘spectacular’
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Personal record times of local runners dropped like flies at the New World Fall Spectacular cross country meet on Oct. 11 at the Cecil Field Golf Course in Jacksonville. There were eight competitive races on the fast course. Each of the Elite and B races had between 278 and 405 runners competing. In the Girls Elite race, Matanzas sophomore Peyton Cerasi broke her own school record and earned a medal with a time of 18:33 to place 25th out of 350 runners. Seven runners ran between 18:32 and 18:3 5. Flagler Palm Coast senior Ari Slaughter was not far behind with a personal record of 18:41 for 31st place.
FPC’s Anna Grigoruk (19:04, 50th), Audrey Bowman (20:18, 144th) and Everly Mucciolo (22:25, 289th) also ran PR times. Matanzas senior Blaine Vogel placed 42nd in the Boys Elite race with a PR time of 15:54, which was more than a minute faster than his time in the same meet a year ago. FPC freshman Douglas Seth placed 63rd with a PR time of 16:05. FPC sophomores Owen Stackpole (16:51, 151st) and Matteo Almedia (16:52, 153rd) ran PR times. Matanzas senior Matt Ciardi also broke his PR with a 16:57 to place 160th. Teammate Brant Tarsitano was 166th in 16:59. FPC junior Evan Johnson ran his best time with a 17:47 for 269th place out of 405 runners.
In the Boys B race, Seabreeze
placed ninth as a team with senior Hunter Shuler placing sixth with a PR time of 16:38, while teammates Kai Shirley (17:45, 70th), Steven Martinez (17:51, 81st) and Audie Daytona (18:17, 113th) also ran their best times.
Matanzas senior Sara Van Buren placed 20th in the Girls B race with a time of 20:24 with teammate Megan Rhee right behind her in 21st place with a PR time of 20:26. Father Lopez’s Lucy Fulton placed 84th with a PR time of 22:05. Matanzas freshman Rena Carlton ran a PR of 22:19 to finish 104th. Father Lopez’s Savannah Cox broke her PR time by 40 seconds with a 22:44 to finish 128th. Thirteen Lopez runners broke their PR times with four runners shattering them by over a minute.
Phone: 386-888-6060
Web: SelisLaw.com
Serving Clients throughout Florida
Offices – Ormond Beach & Palm Coast
midway through the fourth quarter until the Pirates (5-3) scored two touchdowns in the final six minutes to win 26-6.
“It would have been real easy for our kids to make excuses, to blame the weather and the field conditions and all that,” Matanzas coach Matt Forrest said. “But they found a way to stay ahead in the game and kind of have control of the game. They found a way to win.”
Running back Wiley Conner could have let his firstquarter fumble into the end zone affect him the rest of the game, Forrest said. But after losing the ball on a handoff at the Belleview 1-yard line, Conner went on to score two touchdowns. He would finish with a team-record 36 carries for 163 yards rushing in the mud.
“It was tough on him to fumble when we’re about to punch it in on the first drive,” Forrest said. “For him to rebound from that and have the night he did, I was very proud of him. It could have been very easy for him to plan an exit, like, ‘well, it’s just not my night,’ or ‘the ball’s wet,’ or whatever the case may be, and he didn’t do that. He just kept plugging along, just kept chugging.”
Each team turned the ball over three times. A forced fumble by Rilee Roberts and recovery by Javonte Patton led to the Pirates’ first touchdown, a 1-yard run by Conner.
Ladarien Baker caught a 39-yard touchdown pass from Cole Walker to put Matanzas up 13-0 midway through the second quarter. But after Cole Dockhorn blocked a Belleview punt and the Pirates moved the ball to the 1-yard
The Pirates held the Rattlers to 96 yards on offense, all on the ground. Belleview did not complete a pass. Dormevil was one of 22 Matanzas seniors who might have played their final game at “the Ship.” The Pirates have a chance to make the playoffs with wins in their final two games at Menendez on Oct. 24 and at Palm Bay on Oct. 31, but if they are to play at home again this season it would likely be in the new Florida Invitational Tournament for the top 16 teams in each classification that do not make the playoffs.
Despite the Corvettes driving away before Dormevil could celebrate, he said the Pirates had fun, even enjoying the adverse conditions.
“It was just a great time. I’m forever going to remember this game,” he said. “It felt like a party out there. It was electric. It was nasty, it was muddy, but it was fun. I love games like that because it really tests who you truly are. People were getting hurt (several players limped off). It was definitely dangerous, but
touchdown.
Matanzas sophomore Peyton Cerasi broke her own school record set earlier this season with a time of 18:33 to place 25th in the Girls Elite race at the New World Fall Spectacular. Courtesy photo
Matanzas receiver Thomas Larywon caught three passes for 45 yards and a
A Belleview defender wraps up Ladarien Baker (3) after the Matanzas receiver caught a pass.
CLASSIFIEDS TRIBUTES
ROKU Device and Remote, $25 Call Landline 386-447-2876 Text 386-283-7384
Seamstress Retiring! Thread, Material, Buttons, I’ve got it all to start your own business. All must go. Call Landline 386-437-1636
For Sale 2017 Chevrolet Colorado 2 and 4 Wheel Drive. Silver. Excellent Condition New Tires 40,000mi $20,000 386-341-0667
Handyman
John’s Construction Clean up Trash Hauling, Landscaping, Irrigation, Junk Removal, Flower Beds & More Licensed and Insured 386-264-8694
Help Wanted
Carpenters Needed/Wanted in St. Augustine Area Call Isaac 904-669-9937
never used. $85 (386) 986-2779
Halloween Decor, 4 Big Boxes filled with Lanterns, Adult Size Costumes, Nicknacks, and More. OB Make Offer 386-672-5545
WP WASHER =MODEL WP
3.5-CU FT
Home Health Aid Private Caregiver Dr. appoint., shopping, meal prep, light housekeeping, assist with personal care, laundry, etc. Available weekdays, weekends. Licensed, Insured. Palm Coast/ Flagler area. (386) 569-7747
Housekeeping
Marissa’s House Cleaning (Flagler County Only) 20 Years Experience, License and Insured. 386-292-6988
Lawn Care
Trimming Specials “Everything but the Lawn” Trimming, Weeding, Maintenance, Mulch, Rocks, Design, Pressure Washing & More Palm Coast Only 631-565-5203
Real Estate
Palm Coast 4 Bedroom House
Nineteen Hundred Square Feet
Living Space. has new roof ,air conditioner appliances, waterheater, just painted asking $335,000.00 obo 1-386-437-7058 landline.
PALM COAST OVER 1/2 ACRE of Land Build 2 Houses On It Low Taxes. Asking $160,000 OBO I Pay All Closing Cost. 386-437-7058 Landline
Yard Sale
Christmas In October! 465 Lambert Ave FB Handmade Ornaments, Greeting Cards, & Gifts, Nut Crackers, Lighted Houses and other Decorations. Fri&Sat Oct 24&25 9:00AM2:00PM
Bulow Plantation hosts community yard sale Saturday, Oct 25, 9AM–2PM. Rain date: Wednesday, Nov 1. Location- 1 Silvermoon Dr, Flagler Beach, FL 32136.
Fri&Sat Oct 17th-18th 8:00AM1:00PM. Stand up Walker, Old Coins, Silver Certificate Bills, Electric Fireplace, New Futon Frame/ No Mattress. Nicknacks, Clothes, and Much More. 4 Porter Place PC
Multi Family Yard Sale, Oct 16,17,18 9:00AM-2:00PM. Tools, Jeep Parts, Baby Items, Trundle Bed, Sewing Machine, Longaberger Baskets, Kitchen Items, Clothing, Holiday Decor, Carousal Horse Spice Jars, Stamp and Coin Collection, Steife And Hummel Figurines, Bike, and Vintage Vinal Records. 19 Clubhouse Drive PC
Moving Sale Saturday October 18, 9:00 AM-2:00 PM - Rain or Shine 33 Fariston Place Palm Coast Housewares, Some Furniture, Yarn, Pictures and More
Oct 18&19 9:00AM-3:00PM
Multi Family Yard Sale Many Household Items, TV’s, Bikes, Juicer, Dishes, Holiday Decor. Too Much to Mention. Something for Everyone 60 Westcedar Ln PC
Yard sale Friday 10/17, 12:30-4pm-Sat 10/18 8:303pm 8 Capistrano Dr Ormond Beach, tools, fishing gear, misc
INFORMATION & RATES: 386-447-9723 • info@observerlocalnews. com • classifieds.palmcoastobserver.com
DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at Noon; Service Directory - Friday at 3PM • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card
The Observer reserves the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only. *All ads are subject to the approval of the Publisher. *It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in the Palm Coast Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with towncodes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property. Notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.
