OBO 07 23 20

ORMOND BEACH

Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

VOLUME 8, NO. 47

Volusia to set tax rate County presents proposed general fund millage rate at ‘partial rollback’ PAGE 5 INSIDE CITY WATCH

Neighborhood meeting scheduled for apartments building project PAGE 2

STATE BOUND PAGE 10

DELAYED SCHOOL START The Volusia County School Board approved a start date of Aug. 31, but questions remain. PAGE 3

DONATE BLOOD

DeSantis promotes donations of COVID-19 convalescent plasma as protestors disrupt press conference PAGE 4

A STEP BACK

Florida Democrats push for scaled-back reopening, statewide mask mandate PAGE 4

COVID-19

Ormond Towne Square Publix reports positive case PAGE 5

ER VISITS

AdventHealth doctors don’t want you to skip emergency room visits PAGE 7 A student wears a face shield a she completes classwork.

Blocking return Florida teachers union, saying it’s ‘reckless’ to open, will sue state PAGE 3 INDEX Cops Corner.......... PAGE 8 Letters................... PAGE 6 Real Estate........... PAGE 11

Photo courtesy of Volusia County Schools

INSIDE

Adventures await Sarah Beliza Tucker’s “The Adventures of Harry and Friends” is a labor of love decades in the making.

PAGE 9

Wear your mask With COVID-19 cases still rising, Volusia continues to stress importance of wearing masks.

Courtesy photo

Gabby Byle reads a book from Tucker’s “The Adventures of Harry and Friends” series.

PAGE 7

ORMOND BEACH OBSERVER

|

OrmondBeachObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

JARLEENE ALMENAS ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BY THE NUMBERS

150

permits issued within the city last week, valued at $1.45 million. This includes 12 garage sale permits.

232,000

masks distributed by Volusia County. Need one? Pick one up at the Ormond Beach Library, located at 30 S. Beach St.

5.45

mills: the property tax rate proposed for Volusia County. It is 3% under last year’s rate.

32.91

million gallons of reuse water produced last week Email News Editor Jarleene Almenas at jarleene@ ormondbeachobserver. com.

FEMA to pay for lifeguard tower The cost of the new lifeguard tower at Al Weeks Sr. North Shore Park — which the county said will also aid Beach Safety in responding to rescues at North Shore Park, Tom Renick Park and Bicentennial Park — will be reimbursed by FEMA. The project will cost $252,872.50, said County Community Information Specialist Kate Sark in an email.

It will be staffed daily by one guard, who will have an ATV to respond to rescues in this unincorporated stretch of beach.

Courtesy of the city of Ormond Beach

The meeting will be available via Zoom as well.

A neighborhood meeting to introduce the Tymber Creek Apartments projects will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, at Coquina Presbyterian Church.

The Tymber Creek Apartments project is proposing the construction of 300 multifamily units at 36 Tymber Creek Road. The landowner will be represented

by Storch Law Firm a the meeting.

The neighborhood meeting notice states that the

landowner wishes to build luxury apartments. The plans show residents will need to enter the apartments through the Walgreens at 2001 W. Granada Blvd.

There is also a retention pond and 10-foot landscape buffer between the apartments and Moss Point Drive. The plans also show there will be 10 apartment buildings, all three stories tall, with 24-36 units in each.

The landowner is seeking annexation for the land that

“This is not a government mandate. This is a request for you to take some personal responsibility and put a mask on — a simple little thing like that will make a difference.”

ED KELLEY, volusia county council chair. See Page 5

is not incorporated into the city, a future land use amendment and a rezoning from B-8 commercial and A-2 rural agriculture to a planned residential development.

The meeting will also be available to view via Zoom. If you wish to tune in virtually, RSVP by emailing cathy@ storchlawfirm.com or call 2388383.

This is the only proposed apartment project in the city at this time.

Airport traffic to increase Ormond Beach Municipal Airport staff were advised that flight training traffic may increase temporarily due to construction at the Daytona Beach International Airport, according to the July 17 weekly city staff report.

The report states that some traffic from DBIA is being directed to fly northbound over the Halifax River, and as a result, areas east and southeast of the airport may see more traffic.

Volusia cities mandating masks Ormond Beach has issued a proclamation encouraging wearing a face covering while in public, but it is not a mandate. However, Daytona Beach, DeLand, New Smyrna Beach and Orange City are mandating face coverings in public.

A MESSAGE FROM THE CITY OF ORMOND BEACH

s a m t s i r Ch in July

HAVE YOU COMPLETED YOUR 2020 CENSUS?

Christmas

It only takes 10 minutes to answer 10 questions that will shape the next 10 years.

You don't need anything except the link below. Please take your Census today!

Visit: 2020census.gov 337779-1

CITY WATC H

Neighborhood meeting scheduled for apartments

ORMOND BEACH COUNTS!

337783-1

2

ORMOND BEACH OBSERVER

OrmondBeachObserver.com

WAITING GAME

School Board OKs reopening plans but could delay start date to Aug. 31.

JARLEENE ALMENAS

THE THREE LEARNING OPTIONS

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

T

TRADITIONAL CLASSROOM SETTING

he Volusia County School Board unanimously voted to approve its fall reopening plan — including a livestreamed lesson option for students and a two-week delayed start date of Aug. 31 — a decision made in an eight-hour meeting that began at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 21, and wrapped up at 12:50 a.m. Wednesday, July 22.

The plan will be submitted to the state for approval. Three of the five board members were in favor of procuring a waiver from the Department of Education that will allow the board, and not the state, to have final say on whether students should be allowed back on campus. With COVID-19 cases continuing to spike in Volusia, the Department of Health having reported almost 1,300 new cases since July 14, School Board members Carl Persis, Ruben Colon and Linda Cuthbert all said that, unless cases and the positivity rate dramatically decreased, it wouldn’t be safe to reopen schools.

Persis said the community will need to be directed by a higher authority — the state, the federal government or Volusia County government — to put in place measures to stop the spread.

“What if school was starting tomorrow?” Persis said. “How safe would any of us be, by sending our children there, about teaching there? It’s not good, and someone’s got to do something different to get us all to control this spread.”

Colon said the board hasn’t voted to reopen schools or not — the vote is to submit a plan to the state, of which he was in favor.

Regarding option two, he said the district should explore grouping students so a teacher doesn’t have to simultaneously teach inperson and virtually.

We’re being forced to create a new path, Colon said, and there is still work to be done.

“School as we know it is different, and that’s a very hard reality to swallow,” Colon said.

From July 22 to 28, the district will be sending out a survey for parents to pre-register which of the three learning options they prefer for their children.

to the teachers that return to work.

“This is an emergency situation,” Gimbert said. “Once it’s over, we can go back to the normal order of business, but right now students’ lives will not go on hold for all the teachers to feel safe.”

DeLand teacher Jane Corlett said educators have dedicated their lives to their students, sacrificing pay, their families’ needs and their health. No choice during the pandemic will be perfect for all students, Corlett said, but they have to go with the safest option.

“We beseech you, before you make possibly a disastrous choice, that you believe in the science that’s before you and please do what you signed up for,” Corlett said.

One of the people who also called in to the virtual meeting was a nurse in a Volusia hospital, who said they are currently experiencing a surge in patients.

He told the board children were at risk and that they should reconsider opening schools when the COVID-19 case numbers are lower.

VOICING THEIR OPINIONS

THE REOPENING DILEMMA

The board listened to about 3 hours and 40 minutes of public comments made by many teachers, parents and at least one student; some wanted Volusia County Schools to move forward with reopening brick-and-mortar schools, and others implored the board to find another solution.

Volusia resident Greg Gimbert asked that the board consider splitting the start date between the groups and allow students and teachers who feel comfortable to return to school on Aug. 31. The teachers and students who have fear should not return to a brick-and-mortar, he said.

As the county is under an emergency situation, he said the board should cancel the teacher’s union contract and offer $1,000 a week

Could VCS bypass the state mandate to reopen brick-and-mortar schools? School Board Attorney Ted Doran said there was a good chance. He said the board members had clearly done a lot of research and that while he wasn’t prepared to give an opinion on whether they need a waiver or not, there was a path to regaining authority. He also referenced the fact that Patricia Boswell, the Volusia County Department of Health administrator, did not tell the board it was safe to reopen schools at their meeting on Wednesday, July 15, despite having been directly asked to give her opinion by Colon, who said her department’s lack of guidance is a “big hole” in the executive order.

“There’s a lot to work with

Who is this for: Those who feel comfortable returning to school or students who prefer face-to-face instruction.

What to expect: n Daily temperature checks for students and staff once they arrive at school n Face coverings will be required on buses, during transitions, arrival, dismissal and small group instruction. They will be "strongly encouraged" during classroom instruction. n Social distancing in classrooms and cafeterias n Non-essential visitors will be limited from campus visits n Outdoor classroom opportunities whenever possible n One-way hallways

“School as we know it is different, and that’s a very hard reality to swallow.”

RUBEN COLON, School Board member

VOLUSIA LIVE Who is this for: Those who do not feel comfortable returning to school.

What to expect: n Online face-to-face lessons in real time, where curriculum and bell schedule are the same as in a traditional classroom n The student will remain enrolled at his or her school and be taught remotely by a teacher from that school. n Pre-K students through second graders will be provided instruction through Microsoft Teams or Zoom. n Third to twelfth graders will livestream lessons through Microsoft Teams or Zoom in real time. n Students can still be enrolled in Cambridge, IB, AP, and other special programs.

ENHANCED VOLUSIA ONLINE LEARNING Who is this for: Those who do not feel comfortable returning to school and families that need flexibility in scheduling.

What to expect: n Learn at your own pace without a set schedule n Fully-online program n Extra-curricular activities and clubs will be available n 3-5 hours per week for subjects n two to four assignments per week n Advanced, honors and AP classes available

Photo courtesy of Volusia County Schools

What small group work could look like at Volusia County Schools this fall.

here,” Doran said. “If you’re going to make a decision not to open brick-and-mortar, you’ve laid out in the last hour or so all the reasons not to do it.”

But if the board chooses not to reopen brick-and-mortar schools, students who do not have access to technology or internet may fall behind. School Board member Jamie Haynes said that there are families in her district who live in a rural area without a Wi-Fi connection. School Board Chair Ida Wright also pointed out that the district does not have the technology to have each of its 63,000 participate in distance learning, nor do they have the funding. They would need to purchase 35,000-40,000 devices, and they wouldn’t arrive in time.

“We cannot receive them before April,” Wright said. “I hear everyone’s concern. That was why when we initially started down this road, we talked about a delayed start.”

Distance learning, in addition, wouldn’t allow the provision of “full array of services” as mandated in the executive order, Wright said. She told the board about an email she recently received, in which a parent who works at Publix asked why the district didn’t want to have “skin in the game” to provide a basic need?

“Her children’s basic needs are not being met,” Wright said. “And we should be just as essential as

the person working in a grocery store.”

CAN’T IGNORE THE DATA

Persis said schools should not reopen until the positivity rate is less than 5% for 14 consecutive days, or in accordance to the guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control at the time.

Cuthbert agreed with Persis, saying she doesn’t want any students or teachers to die, which she believes to be a possibility if they open schools in August. Parents, teachers, district staff and the board have been put in a difficult position, Cuthbert said.

“And who has put us there?”

Cuthbert said. “People who tend to ignore what is going on. We cannot afford to ignore what is going on.”

Colon cited the federal guidelines to reopen, which say schools may reopen only if cases are trending down for two weeks after reopening restaurants, gyms and resuming elective surgeries in phase one; a move Florida made in stages in late April and throughout the month of May. Cases began to spike in late June.

He stressed exercising their constitutional authority over their district.

“My guess if we get back to school, it’ll be three weeks before we’re going to be facing the music,” Colon said.

|

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

3

Teachers union will sue state Corcoran and DeSantis, have backed the return to in-person instruction ANA CEBALLOS THE NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA

As Gov. Ron DeSantis and Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran push to reopen schools in August, Florida’s largest teachers’ union on July 20 filed a lawsuit seeking to block the return to in-person classes amid a surge of COVID-19 cases.

Plaintiffs in the legal challenge, who include the Florida Education Association and three teachers from Miami-Dade, Broward and Orange counties, allege it is unconstitutional for the state to order schools to reopen while the number of COVID-19 cases in the state continues to skyrocket.

“To reopen all Florida schools before it’s safe is reckless. It is unreasonable. It is unnecessary, and it is a false choice to either keep schools closed and stop learning or to open them unsafely,” FEA President Fedrick Ingram said during a conference call with reporters on Monday, July 20.

Corcoran on July 6 issued an executive order requiring all school districts to reopen brickand-mortar schools at least five days a week beginning next month, unless state and local health officials direct otherwise.

At the time, President Donald Trump was pressuring the nation’s governors to reopen schools in the fall.

Corcoran and DeSantis, a close ally of the president, have steadfastly backed the return to in-person instruction, citing concerns that children are being harmed socially and academically by not being in a classroom.

“We don’t want folks to fall behind and we really, really want to focus on the best interest of those students and give parents the maximum amount of choices,” DeSantis said during a press conference in Orlando on July 20.

Amid pushback from parents, teachers and school officials, the Republican governor has tried to distance himself from Corcoran’s order.

“First of all, I didn’t give any executive order — that was the Department of Education,” DeSantis, who recommended Corcoran to lead the Department of Education, said Monday.

“They have a board, and they do different things. My view is that we have to work together and I want to work with all the school districts.”

The State Board of Education, however, was not consulted before the order was released, board member Michael Olenick said during a meeting last week.

Corcoran on July 17 said DeSantis signed off on the emergency order prior to its rollout earlier this month.

The lawsuit filed in MiamiDade circuit court on July 20 alleges that the order violates the state Constitution, which guarantees Floridians the right to “safe” and “secure” public education.

“Florida students, parents, teachers, and the public deserve and are constitutionally entitled to the protections needed to assure a lawful and safe reopening,” the plaintiffs’ lawyers wrote.

4

ORMOND BEACH OBSERVER

|

OrmondBeachObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

DeSantis promotes donations State Dems push for scaled-back reopening Will another broad of ‘convalescent plasma’ closure be needed to stop OneBlood’s CEO said they have seen a 500% increase the spread of the virus? in demand for plasma to treat COVID-19 patients.

JIM TURNER JARLEENE ALMENAS ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Protestors yelled and banged on the windows outside the OneBlood headquarters in Orlando for over 10 minutes during a COVID-19 press conference by the governor on Monday, July 20, all the while Gov. Ron DeSantis ignored the commotion and continued to ask Floridians with COVID-19 antibodies donate plasma to help treat current patients.

The group of protestors were escorted outside by law enforcement shortly after beginning to interrupt the governor’s statements by shouting phrases such as “shame on you.” DeSantis acknowledged the protestors briefly before carrying on with his statements.

“And we will not be defunding the police, so don’t worry about that,” DeSantis said. “We’re going to be supporting our men and women in law enforcement.”

More than 10,000 new coronavirus cases were reported on Monday, July 20, a trend since July 14. The state currently has an overall positivity rate of 11.79%.

Volusia County is reporting 5,297 total cases of COVID-19, and Flagler’s count is at 659. Volusia’s positivity rate has been trending down since July 16, going from 17.1% on July 15 to 8.9% on Sunday, July 9. Flagler’s positivity rate has been wavering up and down between 3.6% and 8.9% for the two weeks, with July 19 reporting a 4.3% positivity rate.

DeSantis said the state has been seeing an increase of positive antibody test results, and that the demand for convalescent plasma has increased in hospitals.

“The success has been promising,” DeSantis said. “I think if you look at a hospitalized patient now

SYMPTOMATIC LANES? All 16 mayors of Volusia County cities and Volusia County Council Chair Ed Kelley sent a letter to Gov. Ron DeSantis on July 20, asking he open expedited symptomatic lanes in testing centers in Volusia, as he has done in four other counties include Duval and Orange counties.

The lanes, according to an email by Holly Hill Mayor Chris Via, will allow for people showing COVID-19 symptoms to be tested immediately and receive test results within 72 hours.

In the email and letter to the governor, Via shared that he and his wife were tested but have yet to receive their test results. “This is just one story,” Via said. “There are a growing number. ... This is unacceptable.”

given treatment early, they’re doing better than patients were doing in March and April when the pandemic really first hit.”

George Scholl, president and chief executive officer of OneBlood, said the blood donation center is collecting COVID-19 convalescent plasma — meant to boost the immune systems of coronavirus patients through introduction of antibodies — 24/7 as they experience a 500% increase in demand.

“It’s all hands on deck at OneBlood,” Scholl said. “As quickly as donations come in, we process, we test and we distribute them and get them out the door because the demand is currently unprecedented.”

THE NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA

Florida Senate Democrats want to scale back economic-reopening efforts to slow the spread of the coronavirus, as Gov. Ron DeSantis maintains his approach has been taken with an “eye towards what’s sustainable.”

In a conference call Wednesday, July 15, with reporters, Democrats continued to push for a statewide mandatory mask requirement as they offered a “Step Back to Safety” plan.

Sen. Oscar Braynon, D-Miami Gardens, warned that without a cautious rollback of the economic reopening, the state will need another broader closure to stop the spread of the virus.

“The people of Florida don’t want that. The people of Florida can’t handle that,” Braynon said.

“But if we don’t take the necessary actions right now, to step back, to let bars remain closed, go back to the 25% occupancy rules, (if) we don’t go back right now, it’s only going to get worse.”

The plan, in part, seeks to revert retail and restaurant maximum occupancy from 50% allowed in most of the state to 25%, which was the level under an initial phase of reopening in May. Also, they said bars should remain shuttered.

SCHOOL CAMPUSES

Instead of forcing schools to reopen campuses, Democrats said the state should ensure all students have computers and internet access. In addition, they said each county should delay reopening classrooms until the local coronavirus test-positivity rate is 5% or less for 14 consecutive days.

“While the governor tries to figure out what to do, his hands-off approach is not working,” Senate

Minority Leader Audrey Gibson, D-Jacksonville, said. “He’s losing the war against the pandemic, and that means the people of the state of Florida are losing the war against the pandemic.”

THE NUMBERS

The Democrats’ requests came as the state Department of Health on Wednesday reported 10,181 new cases of the coronavirus, bringing Florida to 301,810 cases since March. The virus also claimed 112 more lives, bringing the death toll in the state to 4,521.

Over the past seven days, the state has recorded an average of 92 deaths, nearly triple the 31 daily fatalities a month ago as DeSantis pushed most of the state into the second phase of his economic reopening.

VULNERABLE VS. SUSTAINABLE

Asked if there might be a need for changes, DeSantis told reporters later Wednesday at the Capitol that most people are following health guidelines.

“When we were going through this in March and April, a lot of folks were focused on what is being restricted or shut down or all that,” DeSantis said. “I think if you look at it, most of the behavior was changing before a lot of that was happening. And I think what we’ve seen recently, as the cases have become more of a center-stage issue again, is we’re seeing changes in mobility data. We’re seeing people do the social distancing. We’re seeing folks who are vulnerable making the extra effort. And I think, ultimately, that is what’s going to do it for us.”

On July 14, DeSantis said the reopening approach has been done with an “eye towards what’s sustainable” for businesses that started to close in mid-March and were mostly shut down through April as unemployment spiked.

“We did what we had to do. But I think from a public’s perspective, at some point I think that they lose interest in kind of still being

in this fight,” DeSantis said during a roundtable discussion with a group of South Florida mayors.

“And so, as we’re doing this, calibrating it in a way that allows us to have society function, businesses operate as best we can with the protections, you know, I’ve just thought that’s a more sustainable approach. And I think you see that in the different parts of the country and different things that have been tried.”

UNEMPLOYMENT

Meanwhile, Florida cruised past the $10 billion mark this week in the amount of unemployment benefits paid out since midMarch.

More than 3 million jobless applications have been filed in the state, with about 2.88 million considered “unique,” according to the state Department of Economic Opportunity. The peak of first-time claims was in midApril.

Of the unique claims, more than 2.62 million had been processed as of Tuesday, with 1.7 million claimants paid. The state had distributed $10.13 billion in state and federal benefits, of which $2.36 billion was state money.

DeSantis has expressed optimism that Florida will see “positive” job numbers on Friday, when a June unemployment report is released.

However, several members of the group of South Florida mayors who met with DeSantis on Tuesday said many businesses have learned during the pandemic to operate from outside their offices and with fewer people.

“We’re going to have people that are not going to go back to work,” said Doral Mayor Juan Carlos “JC” Bermudez. “This is not a short-term issue.”

Some of the mayors also expressed concerns that any economic revival will be slowed without a unified message from the federal, state and local levels regarding social responsibility for “aggressively non-compliant” people.

RIVIERA

337777-1

The Place Where Friends are Family

THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF OUR RESIDENTS IS OUR TOP PRIORITY!

We have practices in place to ensure the continued well-being of our residents.

We are moving towards beginning the re-opening process of our community cautiously. Many restrictions remain in place, in an effort to ensure continued health of our residents and staff.

Under the new procedures we have put in place to safeguard our residents: • Riviera provides weekly shopping service to our residents to ensure their safety.

• Our residents enjoy chef prepared meals which are now delivered daily to be enjoyed in the comfort and safety of their homes.

• Modified outdoor entertainment is provided twice weekly. Residents can enjoy live musical performances from the comfort of their balconies!

• Community elevators and common areas are sanitized continuously throughout the day with hospital grade sanitizer.

386-677-5000 www.RiveraHollyHill.com *Assisted Living Only. | LIC# AL9473

337857-1

1825 Ridgewood Avenue | Holly Hill, FL 32117

337879-1

ORMOND BEACH OBSERVER

OrmondBeachObserver.com

BRIEFS Ormond Towne Square Publix reports at least one COVID-19 case

|

5

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

Volusia proposes ‘partial rollback’ tax rate

The Publix at Ormond Towne Square, located at 1478 W. Granada Boulevard, has had at least one employee test positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days, a Publix spokesperson confirmed on Monday, July 20.

Media Relations Manager Nicole Krauss also confirmed eight stores in the Ormond Beach, Flagler Beach and Palm Coast area have also had employees test positive for the coronavirus, though most were cases reported over two weeks ago.

The Publix locations at Bellair Plaza in Daytona Beach, located at 2595 N. Atlantic Ave., and at Belle Terre Crossings in Palm Coast, located at 4950 Belle Terre Parkway, have also reported at least one positive COVID-19 case in the last two weeks.

The following stores have also reported positive cases, but not in the last 14 days: n Publix at Halifax Plantation Village, 3750 Roscommon Drive, Ormond Beach n Publix at Island Walk at Palm Coast, 250 Palm Coast Parkway NE Unit 1000, Palm Coast n Publix at Palm Coast Center, 800 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast n Publix at Hammock Beach Centre, 5415 N. Oceanshore Blvd., Palm Coast n Publix at Beach Village, 414 Beach Village Drive, Flagler Beach.

The rate will be 3% lower than last year but still collect more revenue.

PROPOSED COUNTY MILLAGE RATES n General Fund:

5.4500 n Library Fund: 0.51740 n Volusia ECHO: 0 n Volusia Forever: 0.1052 n Volusia Forever Debt service: 0.0783 n East Volusia Mosquito Control: 0.1781 n Ponce De Leon Port Authority: 0.0880 n Municipal Service District: 2.1083 n Silver Sands Bethune Beach Municipal Service District: 0.0144 n Fire Rescue District: 3.8412

JARLEENE ALMENAS ASSOCIATE EDITOR

With an $805.9 million budget for fiscal year 2020-2021 prepared by staff, Volusia County is proposing a general fund millage rate of 5.45 mills, a reduction of 3% from last fiscal year’s tax rate.

The first budget hearing is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 15. The proposed millage rate is a “partial rollback,” meaning that while the rate is decreasing, the county will still collect more taxes compared to last fiscal year, as property values have increased from $36.6 million in 2019 to $39.8 million in 2020. The proposed millage rate of 5.45 mills means $5.45 will be collected for every $1,000 of taxable property value.

At the Volusia County Council meeting on Tuesday, July 21, County Manager George Recktenwald said the proposed budget was built on the direction the council gave regarding the fiveyear budget forecast at its last meeting.

“It’s a very fiscally responsible budget that recognizes the uncertain times that we’re in,” Recktenwald said.

County Budget and Administrative Services Director Tammy Bong said taxable property values are just now recovering from the 2007-2008 economic crash, with residential property mak-

Courtesy of the Volusia County Council livestream

Volusia County Manager George Recktenwald.

ing up 68% of the taxable value.

In Volusia County, 71.1% of the properties are valued at $150,000 or less.

Bong also walked the County Council through the operating budget, of which ad valorem taxes make up 35.02% of revenues.

Those $208.5 million are budgeted largely for public protection, which will utilize 38.1% of ad valorem dollars, and the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, which will get 26.4%.

Combined with the other nine county tax funds — such as the library, Volusia Forever and mosquito control millage rates — the average family living in an unincorporated area in the east side of the county with a home valued at $125,000 will pay $106.50 less in taxes for the 2020-2021 year, according to the county budget presentation.

“It’s a very fiscally responsible budget that recognizes the uncertain times that we’re in.”

Volusia County Manager GEORGE RECKTENWALD

The average family living within city limits on the east side of the county with a home valued at $125,000 will pay $50.81 less in taxes.

Volusia County Council Chair Ed Kelley thanked staff for their budget presentation.

“It was clearly presented today in a way that’s easy to understand,” he said.

WATER DAMAGE? MOLD?

Earning Your TRUST On Every Job! Exceptional Customer Service to Homeowners for Over 20 Years!

Insurance Company Preferred Vendor

$10 Tuesdays for the month of July!

• 24-Hour Emergency Response Flager-Volusia, Brevard

386-255-4440

RYTECHinc.com/north-central-fl

• Professional IICRC Certified Technicians

It’s Not Dry Until It’s Rytech Dry.

337823-1

RYTECH

20Lb CONTRACTOR LICENSE # CAC1815644

Cunningham’s Daytona Gas & Grills 201 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill, FL 32117 (386) 255-7705 | Cunninghamoil.com

337835-1

• Water Damage & Mold Specialists

HEALTH MATTERS Thursday, July 30

Partner with the Observer to reach an affluent, health-conscious audience through this quarterly special publication.

Contact advertising@palmcoastobserver.com or 386.447.9723 to reserve your space today!

ORMOND BEACH OBSERVER

|

OrmondBeachObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

Save the Ormond Scenic Loop from deforestation Dear Editor: The Save the Ormond Beach Loop from Deforestation petition has 58,000 signatures. At 7 p.m. July 28, the Ormond Beach City Commissioners have a choice to make concerning development on the Ormond Scenic Loop Byway. An amendment requires a vote, although when a developer asks for an amendment, the city can negotiate something for themselves. Phase three has not been cleared, and retention ponds have been dug. Phase one has an area not cleared along the byway.

Here are several possibilities the city can work toward: 1) The city of Ormond Beach could purchase some of the land.

2) Florida Forever and/or Volusia Forever could purchase land for conservation.

3) The Trust for Public Land can help with No. 1 and No. 2.

4) The buffer along the byway could be enlarged from 175 feet to over 250 feet since it has yet to be cleared.

5) Larger lot sizes help save trees, increase property values and reduce traffic. Larger homes would bring higher taxes to the city to reduce traffic.

6) Implement 70% native plants to reduce watering needs.

7) Reduce the speed limit.

8) Install a gate at the entrance of the development for emergency vehicles only.

There are many things to consider with this development, including traffic, environmental damage, water usage, and future costs to the city of Ormond Beach.

Fifty-eight-thousand people are using their voices to Save the Loop and expect to be heard. The Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail is more than a canopy over the road.

NATALIE PILIPCZAK Port Orange

Why I support Jeff Brower Dear Editor: Citizens of Volusia County will make their voices heard during the August primary.

My vote will go to Jeff Brower for Volusia County chair because he understands environmental problems we are facing and will work to fix them.

He believes in property owner rights but understands rezoning of properties often does not protect our wetlands, and overdevelopment comes with many problems.

Our drinking water matters and is a priority to Jeff.

A lesser known issue he has been working to find solutions for is commercial composting of biosolids.

Biosolids are the sludge left over from wastewater treatment plants. Currently, our biosolids are dumped on land in Central Florida, creating problems with toxic run off. He found the Sustainable Generation System as a viable solution for composting biosolids that can safely be turned into a compost for public use.

Jeff understands the

environmental problems caused by plastics. His plan is to add more garbage cans to the beach, pursue fines for littering, launch business sponsored Terracycle cigarette butt collection, add water refill stations and implement an educational outreach program to raise awareness.

He wants better transparency and oversight of the Volusia Forever program. Volusia Forever is a great conservation program but can be even greater with strong leadership oversight. I support Volusia Forever being the strongest program possible.

Jeff is a strong supporter of permaculture, which are agricultural systems designed to be sustainable and selfsufficient. He is a member of Volusia Soil and Water. His forward-thinking ideas for our environment are refreshing. We are long overdue for a County Council chair who represents the people.

SUZANNE SCHEIBER Ormond Beach

government pattern of spending decisions without general public mandate, catering to special interests instead.

The city’s main arteries now resemble Dubai, not a Florida coastal city with live oak trees and native vegetation.

Medjool date palms originated in the Middle East, don’t grow naturally in Florida, and have a limited tolerance for humidity and rain. They must be planted in sand that drains well with no turf or anything else planted around them, requiring constant monitoring of sensitive nutrient and fertilizer needs. In winter, these trees are vulnerable to severe cold snaps.

Currently, lethal bronzing, an insect-borne disease that originated in the Tampa area, continues to ravage and kill palm trees in every corner of the Florida peninsula.

If a Medjool date palm is lost, another Medjool can’t be replanted in the same spot unless all the soil is removed and replaced with sand. For that reason, experts recommend against planting the trees as part of a landscape design.

KEN SMITH Ormond Beach

Editor’s note: Ken Smith is a candidate in the City Commission Zone 2 race.

Jeff Brower is our man

Medjool me once ...

Dear Editor: The Ormond Beach City Commission will plant 103 Medjool date palms in the medians on Granada Boulevard, between Orchard Street and the I-95 interchange.

These trees cost $4,800 each, for a total of just under $500,000, and installation and other costs total out at nearly $1 million. An FDOT grant has presumably underwritten some portion of the cost, though recurring maintenance expenses will be on the city’s dime.

This big-ticket cosmetic expenditure continues a city

Dear Editor: Choosing a candidate for any office is stressful, but this year I have no doubts as to who I will cast my vote for County Council Chair. Jeff Brower is our man!

Jeff is a good man with a huge heart. He is a great family man, an organic farmer and raises beef. Jeff lends a helping hand to friends and strangers alike. When called upon, Jeff and his family are first in line to help and organize.

Jeff has been keenly involved in wastewater management and the preservation of our waterways. Joining citizens in the fight to clean up our waterways, preserve our wetlands and trying to prevent overgrowth on our wetlands as well, Jeff has proved to be honest and trustworthy and not afraid to tell us no when we are wrong.

I know Jeff and his lovely wife personally. They are a good Christian family, rais-

ing their children to be good helpful citizens who volunteer to help their neighbors, and take care of their environment.

I encourage everyone to familiarize themselves with Jeff Brower and his campaign to become our next County Council chair. Jeff is highly knowledgeable about our area, the environment, our waterways, and we need a person who is reliable and trustworthy. Jeff will dedicate himself to this job, and our county will benefit from having Jeff as a truly honest leader for Volusia County.

Vote for Jeff Brower for County Council Chair. I just did.

JANET NUTT Ormond Beach

A vote for Brower is a win-win Dear Editor: Proud to be a lon- term resident of Ormond by the Sea, along with my parents.

My dad has since passed. We hold our community dear to our hearts. Over the past few years, we have experienced a very noticeable increase in traffic not only on A1A but Granada Boulevard. We are so happy to endorse Jeff Brower for Volusia County chair. In the past, local officials have mostly turned a deaf ear to the voices of its citizens. Jeff Brower has the knowledge and boundless energy and drive to represent the true concerns of the citizens of Volusia County.

Jeff loves this county, same as we do, wants to improve and protect our resources for today and future generations.

Smart development, at this point, isn’t so smart at all. It’s all of us locals who suffer from losing our quality of life that we so dearly cherish. A vote for Jeff Brower is a win-win for every person in Volusia County. Remember once things are gone, bulldozed away, we can never get them back. Taking care of what we already have in much needed. Vote Plan B Jeff Brower!

DIANE CHOQUETTE Ormond-by-the-Sea

Send letters to editor@palmcoastobserver.com. Include first and last name, as well as city of residence.

ORMOND BEACH

Observer “If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.”

FRIEDRICH HAYEK “Road to Serfdom,” 1944

Publisher / John Walsh, jwalsh@palmcoastobserver. com Executive Editor / Brian McMillan, editor@ palmcoastobserver.com Associate Editor / Jarleene Almenas, jarleene@ ormondbeachobserver.com Page Designers / Hailey McMillan, Jennifer Edwards Advertising Manager / Jaclyn Centofanti, jaclyn@ palmcoastobserver.com Senior Account Manager / Hallie Hydrick, hallie@ ormondbeachobserver.com Front Desk Associate / Bonnie Hamilton, bonnie@ palmcoastobserver.com Operations Manager / Maureen Walsh, maureen@ palmcoastobserver.com Circulation Manager / David Brooks, david@horizonroad. com

DELIVERY

The Ormond Beach Observer is published every Thursday.

To suspend or stop delivery, call Circulation Manager David Brooks, at 338-5080.

TO ADVERTISE

Call the office at 386-447-9723.

For Classifieds or Business Directory, call 386-492-2784 or email pcoclassifieds@palmcoastobserver.com.

NEWS TIPS

Send news tips to jarleene@ ormondbeachobserver.com.

EVENTS

Submit local nonprofit or entertainment events here: ormondbeachobserver.com/ calendar.

Locally Owned / Publishers of The Palm Coast Observer Palm Coast Observer, LLC P.O. Box 353850 Palm Coast, 32135

CORRECTION

Dan Hilbert was referred to as a judge in the story on Page 4 last week, but that was an error. He is an attorney, running for judge.

JOIN THE ORMOND BEACH CHAMBER TODAY! *NO PAYMENTS FOR 60 DAYS OR 10% OFF ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP! Take advantage of the valuable resources from the Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce as you REOPEN and RECOVER from COVID-19 As your business helps flatten the curve, we are the partner you can trust to be by your side, working for a better tomorrow!

Conact: Jeff Hill, Membership Director (386) 690-6532 *$59 onboarding fee due at time of contract.

Jeff@ormondchamber.com

Offer expires August 31, 2020

338544-1

LET T ERS

6

ORMOND BEACH OBSERVER

OrmondBeachObserver.com

With COVID-19 cases rising, county stresses importance of wearing masks

JARLEENE ALMENAS ASSOCIATE EDITOR

It took Volusia County 100 days to reach 1,000 positive COVID-19 cases. Then, 12 days to reach 2,000 cases, nine days to reach 3,000 cases and finally six days to exceed 4,000 cases.

Volusia County Florida Department of Health Administrator Patricia Boswell shared this statistic during a COVID-19 press conference on Friday, July 17, explaining that the county has reported over 600 cases of coronavirus in the previous three days alone. Two days after, Volusia exceeded 5,000 case. At the time of the press conference, the average positivity rate for the last 14 days was 11.75%. On June 10, the average positivity rate was 11%.

“Please, protect yourself when you leave your home and do the mitigation measures necessary to protect others,” Boswell said.

A total of 89 people have died from COVID-19 in Volusia as of Tuesday, July 22, 10 more than at the time of the press conference.

Boswell reported that the number of COVID-19-related hospitalizations has doubled in Volusia since the end of June. According to the Agency for Health Care Administration, Volusia County currently has 30.77% of its hospi-

JARLEENE ALMENAS ASSOCIATE EDITOR

While your first reaction should be to self-assess for COVID-19 and potential risk factors, AdventHealth doctors don’t want you to bypass an emergency room visit if you’re feeling like your symptoms — whether related to COVID-19 or not — are putting you in danger.

In a morning briefing on Thursday, July 16, Dr. Ademola Adewale, emergency medicine physician at AdventHealth East Orlando, said the hospital is still here for citizens should they have concerns about their health.

“I do not want our population to try to play doctors,” Adewale said. “You know your body more than anybody else and if you feel like something is not right, then please come. Let’s check you out.”

During the stay-at-home order issued by the governor back in April, Adewale said the hospital’s emergency department visits dropped by 70% because people were scared of being infected with the coronavirus if they came to the hospital. AdventHealth is taking the precautions to prevent that from occurring, Adewale reassured.

Dr. Ramon Nunez, medical director at AdventHealth Celebration, said citizens should con-

We’re STARS in PALM COAST

“Please, protect yourself when you leave your home and do the mitigation measures necessary to protect others.”

Call Sandra Today!

386-302-2383

PATRICIA BOSWELL, Volusia County Florida Department of Health Administrator

Ask for an E-brochure, or more information.

Accepting New Residents!

tal beds available, as of Wednesday, July 22. AdventHealth Daytona Beach has 29.88% of its total beds available, but only 15.22% of its ICU adult beds available with 7 open beds.

Halifax Health Medical Center has 29.49% of its total beds available. AHCA reports Halifax Health has 28% of its adult ICU beds open, as 72 of its 100 adult ICU beds are occupied. It does have all of its five pediatric ICU beds available.

Volusia County Council Chair Ed Kelley again urged residents to wear masks as part of the county’s Step Up Volusia campaign. The county is still giving away masks.

Visit volusia.org for locations.

Kelley also reminded that funding is still available to help small business with grants as well as rent and mortgage assistance for Volusia families.

“This is not a government mandate,” Kelley said. “This is a request for you to take some personal responsibility and put a mask on — a simple little thing like that will make a difference.”

Assisted Living & Memory Care Community Is it time to give up the worries of maintaining your house by living care free here at Sabal Palms?

CALL to schedule your upcoming tour, 386-302-2383.

AdventHealth: Don’t skip ER visits due to COVID-19 Also, state data shows 1 in 3 children are testing positive for COVID-19.

7

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

We are continuing to work with Hospitals and Rehabilitation Centers during these challenging times. Should you have a discharge forthcoming from rehab or the hospital . . .

Assisted Living may be an option or Respite short term stay (based upon availability).

tinue to take preventative precautions against COVID-19, such as wearing masks while in public.

“My mask protects you and it is your mask that protects me,” Nunez said. “So hopefully after all of this, we’re all a little more thoughtful and more considerate and kinder to each other.”

A pediatric report by the state showed that children accounted for 31% of coronavirus cases Florida. With that data showing 1 in 3 children tested for the coronavirus obtained a positive result, Adewale said these children often have mild to no symptoms. Nunez said that if a child develops symptoms, the family unit should all stay home to quarantine.

“Usually, thank God, the pediatric population, because they’re so young and healthy, are resilient and recover well,” Nunez said.

(386) 225-4070

Lic # 13103

RN’s & LPN’s on Staff 24 Hours/Day Building Rated for Category 4 Hurricane Generator on Site • Offering Respite Care

LOWERING YOUR LIVING COSTS, NOT YOUR EXPECTATIONS! Screenshot courtesy of Life at AdventHealth Central Florida livestream

Dr. Ademola Adewale, emergency medicine physician at AdventHealth

NOW ACCEPTING RESIDENTS 386-225-4070 | SabalPalmsSeniorLiving.com 2125 Palm Harbor Pkwy, Palm Coast, FL 32137 LIC# 13103

337807-1

Almost 1,300 new COVID-19 cases were reported since July 14.

|

COPS CORNER

|

OrmondBeachObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

JULY 10

NIGHTTIME TRACKER 2:20 a.m. — 800 block of North Halifax Drive Disturbing the peace. Police arrested a 38-year-old Winter Spring man who arrived at an Ormond residence, began honking his car horn and screamed obscenities “at the top of his lungs,” according to the police report.

The man told police that he was at the home because he had a GPS tracking app on his girlfriend’s phone, and it showed she was at this location. The reporting officer noted the man appeared drunk and had several open beer cans in the center console of his car, in addition to a case that still had three unopened beers.

The resident told police that she was frightened when the man showed up and that it woke up everyone in the house. The man was taken to jail.

ADOPTABLE PETS Angelo is ready for a loving home and family, loves to play fetch and snuggle.

Source: The Florida Department of Health

Volusia County cases and positivity rate

Rocko is a 4-year-old terrier, American Staffordshire and pointer mix.

Dakota is a 3-yearold terrier mix and gets along great with other dogs.

JULY 12

HE SHOULD’VE WALKED AWAY 8:55 a.m. — 1600 block of West Granada Boulevard Grand theft. A 47-year-old Ormond Beach man told police he had stolen a car because he was “on a walk” at the time, according to his arrest report.

The vehicle had been stolen from a local gas station after the owner went inside the convenience store having left his vehicle unlocked with the keys inside.

Police spotted the stolen car on I-95 and stopped the driver. Other than saying he had been on a walk, he refused to say more about the incident.

Nothing else was stolen from the car, which was returned to its owner. The man was taken to jail.

COVID-19 REPORT

DeeDee loves to be around people and get lots of love and attention.

The Halifax Humane Society is now open to the public by appointment only during its regular business hours.

To adopt, contact adoptions@ halifaxhumanesociety.org or call 274-4703.

IMPACT by Ross Trudeau; CROSSWORD MEASURABLE Edited by David Steinberg

Volusia emergency visits with COVID symptoms

Total Florida cases As of July 22

379,619 Florida residents hospitalized As of July 22

22,249 Deaths As of July 22

5,345 a temperature gauge?

94 Awards such as Best Female Athlete 95 Unrefined 96 Carefree jaunt 97 Jane Pauley’s channel 99 “Survival of the fittest” naturalist 101 Idina’s “Frozen” role 102 Checker’s move?

107 Poker words 108 Making noticeable progress, or a theme hint 111 Call at home when one isn’t out?

112 Canonized Norwegian king 113 Moves, to a Realtor 114 Tool sets 115 A Brady boy 116 Long-running crime drama 117 Unbalances

CDC recommends face coverings The Centers from Disease Control says: “Cloth face coverings may slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others.”

37 Vietnamese holiday 38 Skin Advisor company 39 Iraq War threats, for short 41 Pay raises 45 Cat door, e.g.

46 ___ II Men 47 Took responsibility 49 Beginnings 52 Artist’s inspiration 53 Harshly condemn 54 Took a load off 55 King, in Latin 59 Arcing tennis shots 60 Grain tower 62 Obama ___ (2009-17) 63 Losing row for X 64 Little litter member 65 Irving character in a 1982 film 66 Like pizza dough 71 91-Down contents, perhaps 72 Throw out a fishing line DOWN 73 Jesus of baseball 1 Watering can filler 74 Intergalactic PC game 2 Brainstorming success 76 Scalping, like tickets 3 Dryer fluff 77 Brewery kiln 4 Milk ___ (chewy candies) 78 Picked ‘dos 5 “Vamoose!”

80 Lash out at 6 Type of committee 81 Metric speed meas.

7 Expand 85 Beyonce’s maiden name 8 Word before room or hall 87 Enjoyed fajitas, say 9 Invites out of the cold, say 88 Tree that symbolizes 10 Skilled guy strength 11 Party with electronic music 89 Intensifies, like anger 12 What cake toppers do?

91 Big vase 13 Greenlights 92 ___ a clue (is lost) 14 “Want to?”

93 Dragon-riding fantasy hero ©2020 Universal Uclick 15 Autobiography about female 97 Recipe writers, often 1 Broom ___ (comics witch) Desire” shout 72 House, in Tijuana 50 Wee boy education activism in Pakistan 98 Jerry’s partner 6 Taj Mahal site 32 Yoga pose 51 Loses control, or affects a 75 Blood-typing initials 16 Run away 99 Frisbee, e.g.

10 Septet minus four 36 Exceeds one’s previous Geiger counter?

76 Tires, or affects a fuel 17 Mary ___ Lincoln 100 Three-syllable berry 14 Bit of floury language? depravity, or affects a depth 54 Apt nickname for a cook? gauge?

20 Actress Hilary 101 Name hidden in “Gen18 Loathing gauge?

79 Ctrl-___-Del 55 Lines in a sun drawing 23 ___ Lanka evieve” 19 Bridal boutique fixture 40 Spread, as fingers 80 Now-silent character on 56 Quaint lodging 24 Bathroom floor workers 102 Pad see ew cuisine 57 The Jazz, on a scoreboard “The Simpsons” 21 Heavenly ring 41 It sells, they say 27 Wetland 103 Wall calendar line 58 Objectivist Rand 22 Has a broad impact, or 42 Cry like a kitten 81 Didn’t go bad 104 Run in neutral 59 Founder of Taoism affects a seismometer?

43 Kingdom 82 Alternatives to fans, for 29 Repair 30 Piglet’s mother 105 Sign near a school 61 Suddenly takes major 24 Domesticated 44 With 70-Across, short 31 Ramble on and on 106 Julia’s “Ocean’s Eleven” action, or affects a speed25 Is humbled shrunken Asian waters 83 Ill-considered 32 Popular Japanese beer role 26 “Smooth Operator” singer 45 Super ___ (campaign ometer?

84 Drenches 33 Unleashed, as a trap 108 Flavor enhancer letters 27 Took a video of 67 Trust funder) 86 Cartographer’s outputs 34 “Sadly, it isn’t” 109 Sculler’s stick 28 Wrestler Flair 68 Name 46 Gravy container 88 ___Kosh B’gosh 35 Simba’s love 110 Dr. Mom’s treatment, 29 “Have it your way!”

69 Spice Girl B or C 48 Heavyweight’s wins, 89 Specialty maybe 30 “A Streetcar Named 70 See 44-Across briefly 90 Adds pressure, or affects 36 The Amish, for one

CELEBRITY CIPHER

By Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present.

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“WCOZICFX ZDWZ SW WRPSWYSZF IX YSTZ IZKPDZXW. S’O WRPSWYSZF IX R IZREPSYED WPVSKN RVVRKNZOZKP.” – IZJH “PFWVA T ALRGV-BU GRNTV XRFKV’O NFTV SRB JTV’O ZRRM PFTBOWCBZ, WVXWHWXBTZ TVX XWCCFLFVO.”

– OGWAAS

Puzzle Two Clue: H equals V

ORMOND BEACH OBSERVER

Puzzle One Clue: J equals C

8

© 2020 NEA, Inc.

SUDOKU

Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.

©2020 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

07-23-20

Classifieds 12 Real Estate 11

JULY 23, 2020

YOUR NEIGHBORS From animation to publication Ormondby-the-Sea resident publishes children’s book series

JARLEENE ALMENAS ASSOCIATE EDITOR

H

arry the Redheaded Lizard has been a part of Sarah Beliza Tucker’s life since she was in ninth grade.

The Ormond-by-the-Sea resident first created the character when she wrote a Christmas story for her creative writing class.

Years later when she met her husband, Stan Lee, she told the story to his martial arts students.

“The kids fell in love with it, and [Lee] asked me if I would be interesting in developing something for the martial arts industry along the lines of character,” Tucker recalled.

And so, the “Harry and Friends Black Belt Principles Character Education Program” cartoons were born. Tucker, who owns Ocean Aire productions, began as a Fox Kids Club actress and producer, before moving on to theater, animation and video game production, according to a press release. Her company has been helping teach character development in the martial arts industry since 2006, and she wanted to bring that to life in a print format.

Inspired by all the children, teachers and parents she has worked with in the last two decades, her new book series, “The Adventures of Harry and Friends,” is a passion project. All these years, she’s been trying to make a difference with Harry.

“It’s a calling,” Tucker said. “It’s definitely a passion because I have other ideas and different stories, and different aspects that I wanted to do, but everything kept coming back to Harry. I’m like,

Courtesy photo

Chloe Cordle holds a copy of “The Day I Met My Best Friend.”

‘You know what, I’m just going to focus on Harry, because this is where I’m supposed to be.’”

Lee, United Martial Arts chief instructor and founder, said the books have been a “big hit” because children, especially those ages 3-5, are visual learners.

“One of the things that I think is amazing is that because of Sarah’s background in film production and cartoons, the books read differently than just a regular children’s book,” Lee said.

The children at United Martial Arts are familiar with Harry and Friends, as they’ve read each of the three new books Tucker has recently self-published on Amazon. They’re her beta group, Tucker said.

One of the characters in her books is Ringo, who Tucker described as the “mischievous child who sometimes learns the hard way.” One time, when a student began to misbehave, Tucker witnessed another student telling him, “Don’t be a Ringo.” The student apologized for his behavior shortly afterward, Tucker recalled.

“So I know that these books are making a difference in these kids lives just from that experience.”

The books are illustrated by Adam Ihle, who voices one of the characters in the cartoons. Tucker and Ihle met over 10 years ago because of this.

Being able to hold a physical copy of her new book series — she hopes to publish two more books by the end of the year — brings Tucker an “overwhelming feeling of joy.”

“It’s like a parent seeing their child get their black belt,” Tucker said. “It’s a lot of hard work. They see what they’ve gone through to receive that achievement and it’s the same thing with me with these books.”

Her goal? She hopes to get her books in the hands of 100,000 kids.

Sarah Beliza Tucker

“One of the things that I think is amazing is that because of Sarah’s background in film production and cartoons, the books read differently than just a regular children’s book.”

STAN LEE, Tucker’s husband

ORMOND BEACH OBSERVER

|

OrmondBeachObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

Ormond Beach 8U All-Stars qualify for state tournament They were the city’s first 8U team to do so since 2017.

RAY BOONE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Ormond Beach’s 8-and-under Babe Ruth All-Star team fought hard during the three-day district tournament at the Southside Sports Complex in Lake City to qualify for the state tournament.

The team opened the series on Thursday, July 16, against Jacksonville’s Fort Caroline Warriors.

The game was suspenseful, with Ormond Beach trailing 6-5 at the top of the fifth inning. However, Fort Caroline pulled ahead to win 9-5.

Ormond Beach needed to win both of its games on Friday, July 17, and Saturday, July 18, and needed some help from other teams in the tournament to earn a trip to states.

The Ormond Beach All-Stars dominated their Friday opponent, the Newberry Bombers, 18-1. And on Saturday, they beat the San Jose Stars 11-6 to clinch the wildcard spot, qualifying them for the state tournament, held July 30 through Aug. 2 at the Ocala Rotary Complex. It was the first time Ormond Beach has qualified an 8U team for states since 2017.

“It was an awesome experience for the kids,” said Michael

Courtesy photos

Reeves, the team’s administrator and the 8U director for Ormond Beach Baseball. “It was like a mini vacation for them. Not only did they get to play baseball, they got to hang out with each other. They really enjoyed it. It was a good time for the parents, too. They got to take a little break from life.”

With the threat of the pandemic, there was always concern the tournament would be canceled.

Ormond Beach was able to restart its recreational league season, which allowed them to put together an all-star team “at the last minute.”

As the team prepares for Ocala, the possibility of states being canceled is still on the back of their minds.

“It’s definitely a possibility,” Reeves said. “But we’re trying to stay on the positive side of things.”

ROSTER

“It was a wonderful relief to have these kids playing again. So many of these kids have been cooped up inside their houses. It’s been a relief to be able to get outside and play with other kids.”

Helping you pursue your financial goals since 1890.

Equities | Mutual Funds | Retirement Plans | Insurance Managed Accounts | Annuities | Financial Planning | Estate Planning

The Remey Wealth Advisory Group David S. Remey, CFP®, CIMA®, CPA Senior Vice President / Investments

No. 1 Aaron Gunter No. 2 Austin O’Malley No. 3 Brody Robinson No. 5 Braylen Hancock No. 6 Odinn Donahoo No. 7 Lance Kastner No. 10 Nathan Corbin No. 13 Landon McNitt No. 18 Chase Bowman No. 22 Walker Korey No. 27 Kaiden Sullivan No. 31 Alex Engelmann No. 66 Aaron Reeves No. 99 Jaden VanSlyke

MIKE REEVES, 8U team administrator

1530 Cornerstone Blvd., Suite 110 | Daytona Beach, Florida 32117 Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated | Member SIPC & NYSE | www.stifel.com

337842-1

(386) 947-6000 | (800) 758-8755 www.remeywealthadvisors.com

Call Us 386-383-0488

Let the sun shine in this summer with Shack Shine’s professional

Window $99 Exterior Cleaning Service WE ALSO CLEAN INTERIOR WINDOWS Regularly $142 | Save over 30%

UP TO 25 WINDOWS Offer expires August 20, 2020

From power washing your driveway to scrubbing the moss, dirt or mildew from your exterior siding, we’ll make sure your home is left looking positively shiny.

POWER WASHING

UP TO 500 SQ. FEET

We specialize in driveways, patios, pool decks, pool enclosures and more.

$99

Additional charges apply for larger surfaces.

Offer expires August 20, 2020

Window sparkle! Frames and sills cleaned impeccably! Gentlemen were on time, friendly and worked efficiently.

GUTTER CLEANING CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE.

$25 OFF Offer expires August 20, 2020

- Pam S. in Ormond Beach

FREE DRIVEWAY

POWER WASHING WHEN YOU BOOK A HOUSE WASH

OUR TECHNICIANS CAN SAFELY AND EFFICIENTLY REMOVE MOLD, GUNK, GRIME AND ANYTHING ELSE FROM THE EXTERIOR SIDING OF YOUR HOME.

Offer expires August 20, 2020

OUR NO-CONTACT HOUSE DETAILING SERVICES ALLOW US TO GIVE YOUR HOME THE SHINE IT DESERVES WITHOUT ANY CONTACT AT ALL

338422-1

WE’RE HERE FOR ALL OF YOUR EXTERIOR HOUSE CLEANING NEEDS.

337965-1

10

ORMOND BEACH OBSERVER

ORMOND BEACH Scott Faber, of Ormond Beach, sold 762 S. Beach St. to Sean Smith and Tracey Lesetar, of Ormond Beach, for $425,000.

Built in 1948, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a fireplace, swimming pool and 1,834 square feet. It sold in 2014 for $173,000.

Andrew Tappe, individually and as trustee, sold 395 S. Atlantic Ave., Unit 1060, to Kevin and Jeanne Murphy, of Pearl River, New York, for $403,200. Built in 1982, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,824 square feet. It sold in 2008 for $430,000.

Barry and Beverly Davidson, of Ormond Beach, sold 204 Riverbend Road to Carmelo and Brittany Lopez, of Ormond Beach, for $334,400. Built in 1979, the house is a 4/2.5 and has a swimming pool and 2,114 square feet. It sold in 1996 for $130,000.

ACL Realty LLC, of Port Orange, sold 36 Benjamin Drive to Daniel Oakes, of Daytona Beach, for $288,800. Built in 1950, the house is a 4/1 and has a fireplace and 1,455 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $142,000.

Elizabeth Petrocelli and Francis Falanga, of Stratford, Connecticut, sold 10 Thomas St. to Peter St. Lawrence IV and Susan Curran, of Ormond Beach, for $239,900. Built in 1985, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,282 square feet. It sold in 1985 for $63,900.

James and Kimberly Viggiano, of Rockford, Illinois, sold 895 N. Ridgewood Ave. to Stephen and Kathleen Clay, of Ormond Beach, for $226,000. Built in 1978, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,706 square feet. It sold in 2005 for $207,000.

BEACHSIDE

Darrell and Debra Brock, of Ormond Beach, sold 22 Southern Trace Blvd. to Thomas Hannan and Christine Kendrick, of South Point, Ohio,

for $360,000. Built in 1996, the house is a 3/2 and has a swimming pool and 2,013 square feet. It sold in 2004 for $293,000.

Nathan and Tara Hale, of Alpharetta, Georgia, sold 200 Seminole Drive to John and Karina Harmon, of Ormond Beach, for $272,000. Built in 1965, the house is a 3/3 and has a fireplace, swimming pool and 2,146 square feet. It sold in 1987 for $76,000.

OCEAN DUNES

GREAT BEACHSIDE FIND! This 3BR, 2BA features oversized 2CG, large living/dining room. Open kitchen. Split bedroom plan for added privacy. Tile throughout. Home sits on large lot and is just a short walk to the beach. New roof 2018.

MLS#1073148 $275,000 Call Buzzy Porter 386-405-1000.

Large lot home steps from the ocean. Completely updated, meticulously designed. Includes 2 story Master Suite. Wood-burning fireplace in formal living room. 2nd floor bedrooms have their own full baths.

Apartment above 2 car garage. MLS#1070004 $779,000 Call Buzzy Porter at 386-405-1000.

RIVER VIEWS

 Delivering Jobs to Volusia County  Keeping Communities Moving Forward  Leading with Integrity  Keeping Your Taxes Low

337838-1

This 2BR, 2BA home with detached 2CG is in a short walk to the park. Home features large windows, living room with wood floors, separate dining room. Kitchen with stainless steel appliances and lots of cabinet and counter space. Extra bonus room. MLS#1067543 $299,000 Call Buzzy Porter 386-405-1000.

Halifax Plantation Mary Sherman, of Ormond Beach, sold 1460 Pecos Drive to Rodrigo and Ana Marques, of Ormond Beach, for $363,000.

Built in 1994, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace, swimming pool and 2,619 square feet. It sold in 2004 for $375,000.

Plantation Bay Paul and Linda Johnson, of Ormond Beach, sold 1268 Royal Pointe Lane to Stephen Fakete III and Constance Dettra, of Ormond Beach, for $355,000.

Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has a swimming pool and 1,951 square feet. It sold in 2004 for $250,900.

Ann Beach, individually and as trustee, sold 1337 Sunningdale Lane to Janet and Kevin Pfost, of Ormond Beach, for $305,000. Built in 2000, the house is a 3/2 and has a swimming pool and 1,930 square feet. It sold in 2007 for $310,000.

John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.

Luxurious custom designed home. Modern & stylish interior with bling accents galore. 4BR, 3BA, 4CG. Imported marble floors, coffered ceilings, 40x14 zero edge pool with 12 person infinity hot tub. THE LIST GOES ON! $699,900 Call Bill Navarra 386-334-9991.

This immaculate home has been extensively remodeled. Nested on a cul de sac along the intracoastal waterway in Ormond Beach. Over 3800SF of living space, 5BR, 3BA, 3CG. Open kitchen includes granite countertops and stainless appliances. Dining room features large windows to enjoy the amazing views. $964,900 Call Bill Navarra 386-334-9991.

Custom build beauty. Cedar ceilings & flooring details throughout which gives that warm cozy feel. 5BR, 5.1BA to include guest quarters/in-law suite. The grandiose pool area with park-like setting, 28x14 Florida room, gazebo with wet bar, summer kitchen, fenced in yard with mature trees. $849,900 Call Bill Navarra 386-334-9991.

HOMES ARE SELLING FAST! WE NEED MORE LISTINGS TO SELL!

337773-1

Courtesy photo

The top transaction has four bedrooms and features a swimming pool.

Casey and Megan Ford, of Ormond Beach, sold 579 McIntosh Road to Cesar Colon III, of Ormond Beach, for $280,000.

Built in 1953, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,964 square feet. It sold in 2007 for $238,000.

CREEKSIDE

A

Tipton Zimmerman, of DeLand, sold 11 Oakwood Park to Hollandia Real Estate LLC, of Ormond Beach, for $152,500. Built in 1984, the townhouse is a 3/1.5 and has a fireplace and 1,664 square feet.

It sold in 2000 for $57,000.

BEAUTIFUL RIVERFRONT

REAL ESTATE EDITOR

house in Plantation Bay was the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormondby-the-Sea for the week of June 14-20 in the Multiple Listing Service. HF Commercial Investments LLLP, of Daytona Beach, sold 1305 Dovercourt Lane to Jeffrey and Tracy Horning, of Ormond Beach, for $575,000.

Built in 2003, the house is a 4/3 and has a swimming pool and 2,793 square feet.

It sold in 2019 for $339,500. Following is a partial list of the week’s other sales.

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS JUNE 14-20

William Laughlin, of Port Orange, sold 45 Dormont Drive to Teresa Lutin, of Ormond Beach, for $280,000. Built in 1958, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,520 square feet. It sold in 1999 for $85,000.

WAYNE GRANT

11

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

REAL ESTATE

Plantation Bay house tops the sale list

|

TIDEWATER

OrmondBeachObserver.com

string arrangement.”

CLASSIFIEDS

– Beck Puzzle Two Solution: “Being a grown-up woman doesn’t mean you can’t look beautiful, individual and different.”

– Twiggy

This week’s Sudoku answers

Thursday, July 23, 2020

The Ormond Beach 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 Ormond Beach Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with town codes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers

“Somebody else is satisfied by five Bentleys. I’m satisfied by a beautiful string This arrangement.” week’s Celebrity Cipher answers – Beck Puzzle One Solution: Puzzle Two Solution: “Somebody else is satisfied by five “Being a grown-up woman doesn’t mean Bentleys. I’m satisfied by a beautiful you can’t look beautiful, individual and string arrangement.” different.”

– Beck – Twiggy Puzzle Two Solution:

“Somebody else is satisfied by five Bentleys. I’m satisfied by a beautiful string arrangement.”

– Beck Puzzle Two Solution: “Being a grown-up woman doesn’t mean you can’t look beautiful, individual and different.”

– Twiggy

Items Under $200 For Sale

AIR CONDITIONER vacuum pump, like new condition $195 OBO 904-317-2832.

Autos For Sale

2017 DODGE Grand Caravan 10” lowered floor, ramp & tie downs $32,995 727-492-1630.

Place Your Ad Quickly

386-492-2784 or classifieds.ormondbeachobserver.com ARTIFICIAL FLOWERS, plants and stems, baskets, arrangements all for $15 386-672-5545.

CIRCULAR GLASS top table with base and 4 chairs, good condition $175 386-439-3664.

ONLY 4 Gilbert Erector sets remaining, from circa 1960’s. Asking $40-$45 per set 305-216-8533.

SCUBA GEAR including size 80 tank, shipping trunk and miscellaneous gear $99 386-446-6855.

VINTAGE BIKE 60's vintage bike royal 26 inch wheels 3 speed $100 (386) 225-9552.

Good Things To Eat

WORLD PLATE your local gourmet Bakery, Eatery and Caterer. (386) 313-6037 www.WORLDPLATEeatery.com

Team Up Today With Classifieds 386-492-2784

“Being a grown-up woman doesn’t mean This week’s Sudoku answers you can’t look beautiful, individual and different.”

– Twiggy

LV9730

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers

INFO & RATES: 386-492-2784 • Fax: 386-447-9963 • EMAIL: classifieds@ormondbeachobserver.com • ONLINE: classifieds.ormondbeachobserver.com Puzzle One Solution: One Solution: HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm • DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at Noon • Service Directory - Friday atPuzzle 3pm • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card

©2020 NEA, Inc.

This week’s Sudoku answers This week’s Crossword answers

This week’s Sudoku answers

Pressure Cleaning

PRESSURE WASHING, Surf’s Up Surface Cleaning, LLC. House Wash, Driveways, Pool Enclosures, and More! (386) 232-8570 Surfsuppw.com

Make Your Phone Ring Team Up With Classifieds

386-492-2784

©2020 NEA, Inc.

This week’s Crossword answers

©2020 NEA, Inc.

2020

This week’s Crossword answers

BUSINESS DIRECTORY ©2020 NEA, Inc.

BLINDS/WINDOW TREATMENTS

INSURANCE

Deanna Kershner

386.677.9265

Independent Licensed Agent

386.931.3414 2020

State Licensed | Insured CCC1328252 | CBC1254280

Deanna.Kershner@yahoo.com 2020

CLEANING

LANDSCAPING & LAWN

Building Customers For Life!

EZ Roofing Inc.

Sunsmile Cleaning

Of Flagler County

Insurance Inspections Available Reliable Prompt Service

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

PLUMBING

TERRY’S PLUMBING

Turner Home Services

For All Your Plumbing Needs

HANDYMAN

Serving Flagler County for over 30 years

Experienced - Fast Safe - Dependable

439-3191 Any Job, Big and Small We do them all 386-445-3305

Mike Turner 386-292-1812 ormondbeachhandyman@gmail.com turnerhomeservices.biz

Fast, Reliable Service Licensed • Insured Master Plumber CFC1426001

2 Generations Family Owned & Operated

CALL 492-2784

338744

337718

386-

WORKS FOR YOU to reserve your space

Explore the

CLASSIFIEDS for great deals.

Visit classifieds.ormondbeachobserver.com

LV10437

HANDYMAN

337719

338280

LIC#CCC1331086

338217

• New Roofs • Replacements • Repairs • FREE Estimates • FREE Roof Inspections & Minor Repairs

Ormond/Flagler Beach, Reliable Exp. European Lady

CABINETRY • CAULKING • DECKS • DRYWALL DOORS • FINISH CARPENTRY • PAINTING • SIDING WOOD REPAIR • HOME MAINTENANCE • MISCELLANEOUS

386-328-5359

Residential Roofing Specialist

Homes • Offices • Condos • Businesses

386-366-2091

CBC ROOFING COMPANY

338443

©2019 Budget Blinds, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Budget Blinds is a trademark of Budget Blinds, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts Brand. Each franchise independently owned and operated.

Shingle | Tile | Metal | Flat | Re-Roof Structural Repair | Skylights 2020

OR OST NO C ATION IG L OB 338742

338434

BudgetBlinds.com

“Specialist In Hard to Find Leaks”

HMO • PPO • SUPPLEMENTS PART D • DENTAL

We’re your local, neighborhood experts, and when we say we have style and service for every budget, we really mean it. Call North America’s #1 provider of custom window coverings and get the style and personalized service you deserve!

386-446-1191

Roof Leaking?

Helping You Select the Medicare Plan That is Right For You!

Ask for special promo on select Signature Series

Blinds • Shutters • Shades Drapes • Home Automation

ROOFING

Medicare Plan Options

of Palm Coast

LV9731

This week’s Crossword answers