Ormond Beach Observer 08-07-25 by Observer Local News

Book Shop owners Stephanie Gonter (left) and Angel Lowden (right), owner of The Studio, with their tea varieties. Photo by Michele Meyers

Circle K site plan upheld in appeal Commission, mayor clash over tax rate

Citizen Amber Bobak had filed an appeal of the SPRC’s decision on grounds including public health and safety hazards.

JARLEENE

ALMENAS

EDITOR

MANAGING

Faced with a citizen appeal, on Tuesday, Aug. 5, the Ormond Beach City Commission apologetically voted 4-1 to affirm a site plan approval for a new Circle K gas station on South Nova Road. Mayor Jason Leslie voted no.

Ormond Beach resident Amber Bobak filed the appeal on May 27, almost two weeks after the project’s site plan for the former Bank of America property at 699 S. Nova Road was OK’d by the city’s Site Plan Review Committee. Circle K had filed an application with the city for the project in October 2024, and as the property holds a B-8 Commercial zoning designation, where a convenience store with fueling stations is outlined as a conditional use, the project didn’t need the City Commission’s approval. It only needed to be reviewed and approved by the SPRC based on whether or not it met the city’s Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code. And with that in mind, as well as the passing of recent legislation preventing governments from enacting more “burdensome” development standards, commissioners said they felt their hands were tied.

“I certainly appreciate all of Ms. Bobak’s efforts, her time, her tenacity, her persistence on this project, and it’s some-

thing that I think I’ve made quite clear in the past — that I would never want to see this happen in our city again, having a gas station so close to residential,” City Commissioner Harold Briley said. Bobak first learned of the project when she received a notice for a neighborhood meeting, which took place in February. Concerned with having a gas station so close to her home — about 400 feet away — she has been opposing the project ever since, coming before the City Commission to ask for help and for a review of the city’s zoning districts to prevent similar issues from occurring in other neighborhoods.

But with the passing of Senate Bill 180, which went into effect in July and prohibits local governments from implementing more restrictive land regulations and procedures, City Planning Director Steven Spraker said the city has been preempted from making changes at the present.

“You can’t make a conditional use now into a special exception,” Spraker said.

Bobak appealed the SPRC’s approval based on public health and safety hazards, environmental risks and stormwater contamination, lighting requirements within the Florida Building Code, incompatibility with the city’s Comprehensive Plan and lack of community support and procedural oversight, according to a city staff report.

However, the report stated that the appeal did not cite a Land Development Code regulation that was not met by the approved site plan.

At Tuesday’s meeting, Bobak thanked the City Commission for hearing her concerns as well as city staff for helping to walk her through

the process of the appeal. However, she disagreed with staff’s determination, and said Circle K’s representation, Rob Merrell of Cobb Cole, has tried to discredit her during the appeal because she is not a professional in a development-related field.

“Being a citizen, a neighbor, a parent is qualification enough when stakes are this high,” Bobak said. “... The current development system is not working to protect us in that neighborhood. The current system of permitting codes and oversight was to serve the public, but right now it’s serving the developers first.”

Bobak has also petitioned the project’s St. Johns River Water Management District permit, with a hearing to take place in September.

“If new neighborhoods are being protected, our old neighborhoods should be receiving the same respects,” Bobak said.

Leslie told the Observer he voted no “to show the resident appreciation in her efforts in this whole process.”

Commissioner Travis Sargent said he knew it hadn’t been an easy process for Bobak.

“I wish we could do something to prevent this from going in, in the future, but I think our hands, as staff mentioned, are tied,” he said. “And I do think that staff has done everything within the guidelines regarding this matter.”

Commissioner Kristin Deaton said Bobak approached the issue properly.

“You approached us with respect and grace, and we appreciate that,” Deaton said. “I would definitely say that I wish we were up here to vote for a gas station tonight. I wish I was able to vote no on a gas station for you.”

The commission voted in July to pursue a 10% tax rate increase. Despite a unanimous vote, the mayor recently said he wanted to keep the city’s tax rate steady.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

Ormond Beach City Commissioners defended their vote to move forward with a 10% tax rate increase after the mayor recently advocated to keep the tax rate the same as last year’s during a Q+A with the Observer.

The commission voted unanimously on July 23, to set a tentative millage rate of 4.5220 mills — or $4.5220 per $1,000 in taxable property value. This tax rate is 10.2% higher than last year’s, and 15.82% above the rollback rate, or the rate that would generate the same amount of tax revenues as last year’s rate.

The tax rate increase is aimed at addressing needs city officials said have been a long time coming, including police salary adjustments, a proactive code enforcement approach, parks and recreation projects and needed vehicles.

During a Q+A, published in the Observer in our July 31 edition, Mayor Jason Leslie said that, although he did vote in line with the commission for the tentative tax rate, he planned to advocate for no rate increase.

At their meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 5, where several residents spoke in favor of the tax rate increase due to the city’s needs, Commissioners

Lori Tolland, Travis Sargent and Kristin Deaton said they wished Leslie had brought up his concerns and ideas for budget cuts at the commission’s workshop in late July.

“I think we all want to keep the rates as low as possible in our city, and we’re fortunate right now to have such relatively low taxes and fees,” Tolland said. “I hope we can still get a chance to do that because the needs we have in our city are real, and so too is our collective desire to make those needs as affordable as possible.”

While Tolland said she welcomed all ideas, voicing them in the newspaper and not from the dais “doesn’t help the process,” she said.

Sargent said he was “blindsided” by the Q+A.

“Please help the community understand why this information was vastly different than that you stated in the budget workshop and the commission meeting,” he said. “I agree that this millage rate was a starting point, and I look forward to working with you, the commission and staff to provide relief to the residents regarding their property taxes.”

In the Q+A, Leslie spoke about leasing city vehicles, such as police patrol cars, instead of purchasing; wanting to see a “better plan” for code enforcement regarding the $200,000 the city is setting aside for it; and finding other ways to enhance security at City Hall (the city is budgeting $105,000 for this).

He also said he wished he could have seen what budget requests came from each department to contribute to the tax rate increase.

Sargent asked if Leslie approached city staff with this request. “This comment under -

mines the hard work the city manager and department leaders put into this budget,” Sargent said. The city, like everyone else, is experiencing the financial impacts of inflation and recently imposed tariffs, Deaton said, adding that the majority of the increases to the budget are for public safety.

“It would take cutting $2.4 million from the budget to keep the same millage as last year,” Deaton said. “Where does that come from? Public safety.”

No one wants to raise taxes, she said.

“Anyone can say they’re advocating for a lower tax rate, but unless you’re bringing solid solutions to the table to actually lower the tax rate, you’re just politicking,” Deaton said.

Leslie defended his answers in the Observer Q+A, saying that as mayor, people look to him for answers when issues and concerns arise.

“It’s a lot of weight on your shoulders to have, so I did have an interview with the Observer , and it wasn’t to discredit anyone here on the dais or discredit staff,” Leslie said. “It was just to be a little bit more open about what’s going on, maybe some of my thoughts and opinions on it.”

Mayor Jason Leslie. Photo by Brian McMillan

Volusia County to lobby for changes to SB 180

Volusia County officials said they believe the bill, which preempts local governments from enacting stricter land regulations, was intended to only apply to hurricane-damaged properties.

JARLEENE

ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

The Volusia County Council wants state legislators to amend Senate Bill 180.

On Tuesday, Aug. 5, the council unanimously voted to request changes to the bill’s language via the county’s lobbyist. The bill, which

Applications now open for Hurricane Milton Homeowner Recovery Program

With the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s recent approval of Volusia County’s $133.5 million action plan, the county is now moving forward with recovery efforts for residents impacted by Hurricane Milton. HUD’s approval clears the way for the launch of the Transform386 Hurricane Milton Homeowner Recovery Program, with applications opening to impacted residents at 8 a.m. Friday, Aug. 1. The program is funded through HUD’s Community Development Block Grant–Disaster Recovery program. Affected residents can seek various types of assistance, such as: Repair, replacement, and reimbursement assistance for homes damaged by Hurricane Milton Voluntary property buyouts for homeowners in high-risk flood areas Match funding for Elevate Florida

was signed onto law by the governor in late June, prohibits local governments located within 100 miles of a track of a categorized hurricane, or listed in a federal disaster declaration, from implementing more restrictive or “burdensome” land regulations or procedures for one year after a storm makes landfall.

It also rendered these regulations and procedures void, retroactive to Aug. 1, impacting the county’s newly increased stormwater regulations.

Volusia County officials said they believe this wasn’t the state’s intent, and the changes they are requesting seek clarification that the law mainly applies to storm-damaged properties.

“A lot of the statements that we’re hearing and the conversation was about this applying to property damaged by hurricanes, and removing the red tape for the rebuilding

and HMGP elevation projects

Eligibility criteria for the Homeowner Recovery Program include income, residency, ownership, and storm damage. Household income must not exceed 80 percent of the area median income, as defined by HUD. Priority will be given to lowerincome households with additional consideration for those that include individuals who are 17 or younger, 65 or older, or have a disability. Applicants must have owned and resided in the home at the time of Hurricane Milton and still retain ownership with a valid homestead exemption or equivalent in effect. Applications must be submitted through the online portal at www. transform386.org. Those unable to complete an online application may schedule an appointment for in-person assistance by contacting the program. In-person application assistance events will be announced in the near future.

For more information about eligibility, required documentation, how to apply, or types of assistance available, visit www.transform386. org or contact Transform386 staff

efforts,” Senior Assistant County Attorney Paolo Soria said.

Some of the proposed changes include changing language that preempts local governments from proposing or adopting moratoriums, more restrictive comprehensive plan amendments, land development regulations and reviews to state that these may instead not be enforced — and only on hurricane-damaged properties.

Council Chair Jeff Brower thanked the county’s legal staff for working on the proposed amendments, saying that he believed the new language better aligned with the Legislature’s intent: to help people whose homes were badly destroyed during the recent hurricanes.

“It doesn’t prevent that, but it doesn’t take away local control of two of the most important things that we deal with here — that’s zon-

at 386-943-7029 or transform386@ volusia.org.

Volusia

conducts full-scale hurricane readiness exercise

With the peak of hurricane season approaching, Volusia County hosted a full-scale hurricane preparedness exercise on July 24, at the Emergency Operations Center in Daytona Beach. The county joined forces with municipalities and state partners to simulate storm conditions and test critical emergency response operations from start to finish.

Participants worked through a series of realistic scenarios designed to reinforce decision-making, improve interagency coordination, and strengthen overall preparedness for significant storm impacts.

“This exercise gave us a chance to simulate the complexities of a major storm and practice making difficult decisions in real time,” said Volusia County Emergency Management Director Clint Mecham. “As we enter the most active months of hurricane season, that level of coordination

ing and land use,” Brower said. Residents who spoke at the meeting were in favor of the amendments.

Some were also interested in filing a lawsuit against the state, if needed.

Daytona Beach resident Catherine Pante asked the council to direct its staff to partner with Orange County and the city of Deltona, two cities with recent regulations in place aimed at controlling growth, to challenge the new law in court.

Asking for amendments during the next legislative session, Pante said, is a “weak” approach and one that delays a decision to pursue a rural boundary charter amendment in time for the 2026 ballot.

“Let’s call SB 180 what it truly is: A calculated move by the Legislature, aided by our local delegation, to strip away local authority and eliminate Home Rule,” she said. “It was designed not to be amended, but to serve powerful development interests that now dominate the legislative process.”

Soria said that case law exists stating that local governments have a

and preparation becomes even more important to keeping our residents safe.”

Residents are reminded to take this opportunity to review their own emergency plans, assemble supply kits, and have multiple avenues to stay informed. For hurricane preparedness tips and updates, visit www.volusia.org/emergency.

Charter Review Commission appointed

The Volusia County Council appointed 15 community leaders to serve on the 2026 Charter Review Commission Tuesday during its regular meeting on Aug. 5.

The members will spend the next year examining whether the county charter meets the community’s current and future needs. Appointed members include:

Jennifer Bright, retired sales manager for Symantec Corp.

James Clayton, retired circuit judge in the Seventh Judicial Circuit

Ben Johnson, former Volusia County sheriff and Volusia County

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constitutional and statutory duty to enforce laws.

“Just because you don’t like a statute doesn’t mean that you have the ability to sue,” Soria said.

County Councilman Jake Johansson said a lawsuit, describing it as a “knee-jerk reaction,” is not how he’d like to approach the issue.

“I still think the best way to move forward is to work collaboratively to try to get these changes in there without stirring the pot,” he said.

“We’ve seen a couple counties stir the pot and they’re not in a good place right now compared to us, and I want to protect what we have from being preempted in the future as well.”

Most of SB 180 is “really good and really necessary,” Brower said, agreeing that seeking amendments was the best way to handle it.

“Is it weak? In my opinion, no not at all,” Brower said. “It’s the way governments are supposed to work together.”

Council member

Nathaniel Ingram, real estate broker and former law enforcement officer

Kelly Kwiatek, chief legal officer for Halifax Health

Dwight Lewis, retired business owner and former Volusia County Council member

Amy Munizzi, president of DeLeon Springs Community Association

Pat Northey, former Volusia County Council member

Ken Parker, retired Port Orange city manager

Nicholas Sakhnovsky, retired educator

Suzanne Scheiber, founder of Dream Green Volusia

Christopher Tolland, executive vice president with Foundation Risk Partners

Mark Watts, land use attorney

Billie Wheeler, former Volusia County Council member

Stephanie Wohlford, director of government affairs with Halifax Health

The first organizational meeting is set for 5:30 p.m. Sept. 3, at the Daytona Beach International Airport.

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The Shape of Water restaurant could still open in 2025, in The

One of the major hurdles preventing the restaurant from opening was a connection to Palm Coast’s sewer services, which will be available by the end of 2025.

SIERRA WILLIAMS CONTRIBUTING WRITER

After years of work, The Hammock’s The Shape of Water restaurant could be opening by the end of 2025.

“I’m going to try to make it this year,” owner Brent Bruns said.

The Shape of Water is a themed destination restaurant Bruns was first inspired to open back in 2016. He has spent years working with an artist designing and building a water-themed grotto at 5047 N. Oceanshore Blvd., complete with waterfalls, mood lighting, music and winding rivers.

Bruns said he was inspired to create The Shape of Water after he met artist Jennifer Butler who created the life-like tree sculptures that decorate the grotto, using concrete. The two worked together to build The Shape of Water’s rivers, bridges, trees and waterfalls.

When all is said and done, he said, The Shape of Water will have the capability to serve 300 people between the indoor and outdoor seating, though Bruns said he will need to purchase a neighboring property to expand the parking first.

“I’ve reached that point that I can probably open with 40 [seating capacity],” Bruns said.

Bruns said he hopes to build a restaurant that is an expe-

rience, from the atmosphere to the food to the service.

“I want to give them something that they haven’t received in a long time,” he said.

THE RIGHT CONNECTIONS

The main holdup on opening The Shape of Water, he said, has been twofold: finding a restaurateur investor and getting the property hooked up to sewer with Palm Coast’s utilities.

Most properties in The Hammock area have a septic system to handle sewage on the properties. But septic systems limit how much outdoor space can be used, as the properties are required to keep the septic fields clear.

For Bruns to build his outdoor grotto and expand his seating to more than 40 occupancy, the county said he needed to connect to the city utility system. The problem, Bruns said, was that it would have cost him between $300,000 and $400,000 to extend the city’s sewer lines far enough to connect to the restaurant.

But after years of discussion with both the county and the city, the problem could be solved in just a matter of months.

Palm Coast began extending its sewer connection service into The Hammock at the beginning of 2025, according to an email from Palm Coast Communications Director Brittany Kershaw and Utility Development Manager Stephen Flanagan. GPS Civil is the project’s contractor, and CPH is the design engineer. Phase 1 of the project — which is along State Road A1A, from Jungle Hut Road to MalaCompra Road — is around 75% complete. Phase 2 — from MalaCompra to the southern town limits of Marineland — is in design.

The project should be com-

pleted by the end of 2025, the email said, and businesses are able to begin the connection process now. All residential and business connections will need to pay impact fees to be connected to Palm Coast’s utility lines.

Bruns and Palm Coast have been in contact for several years about connecting his restaurant to the sewer system. He said he will need to pay around $56,000 in impact fees to get his business connected.

Beyond the sewer connection and finishing the permitting with Flagler County, there is not much work left to do before he’s ready for the grand opening: The commercial kitchen needs to be finished, some equipment installed and Bruns will sooner than later need to purchase a neighboring lot to expand the available parking space.

To expand the property, Bruns said he will need an investor and he’s begun the search to find the right person willing to get involved.

‘FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION’

Despite all the hiccups and obstacles, Bruns said he never once considered giving up his restaurant.

“That is my motto: Failure is not an option,” Bruns said. “You only fail the last time you try.”

Instead, as he continues working toward opening day, Bruns dreams of how The Shape of Water will grow and expand. He said he hopes to be able to build other Shape of Water restaurants in St. Augustine, Jacksonville and Orlando.

He’s designed the menu to be a French-inspired steak and seafood restaurant, even crafting his own recipes to add to it. He even recently added a gastropub, named Guinevere’s, that will serve a

variety of appetizers and drinks.

he is focused on spreading the word about The Shape of Water and building it into an experience customers won’t forget. The restaurant is open to private tours and, if they supply their own food, events. He said he’s also opened the space, for free, to one or two couples at a time to come in and enjoy a meal they provide for themselves.

create a unique, themed des tination restaurant. Looking at the restaurants that have been around the longest, he said, it is the unique ones that last.

guarantees your success,” Bruns said.

Owner Brent Bruns added Guinevere’s Gastropub to his restaurant, The Shape of Water. Photos by Sierra Williams

The Shape of Water restaurant in The Hammock, owned by Brent Bruns, could open by the end of 2025.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Palm Coast mayor’s misdeeds, council’s missteps led to chaos

Dear Editor:

A cohesive City Council provides a sense of stability for the community. It sends a message that the city is well managed and its leaders are focused on problem solving rather than problem creating. Palm Coast does not have that and hasn’t had it for over eight months. A prolonged sense of City Council rancor and instability has prevailed instead. Our mayor’s misdeeds have led to council missteps. Serious and unprecedented distractions and conspiracy theories have become the norm, resulting in a severely divided council and community. Profound chaos has replaced any sense of unity and even rational behavior.

The onset is clearly attributable to the mayor’s actions and behavior early on, but the council’s reactions were at times ill-conceived. The council should have stopped while they were ahead with two unanimous censures, a unanimous vote of no confidence and a big win against the mayor’s frivolous lawsuit against the city.

But their missteps were the Ethics Commission complaint, which was a long

shot at best, as is the current request for the governor to suspend the mayor. Given the facts and well documented evidence supporting the mayor’s problematic behavior and misdeeds are and will remain solid, and the mayor’s lawsuit was handily defeated, going further was not well thought out, and it was overkill by the council. Will there ever be a cohesive council? Was the mayor’s bad behavior just an anomaly? Don’t count on it. He’s a destabilizing force. It’s who he is. It’s baked in. And although there were misdeeds and missteps by all, the mayor remains the origin of and bears responsibility for a now fractured City Council.

MARGARET MINUTAGLIO

Palm Coast

We deserves better than unelected councilman in Congress

Dear Editor:

Charles Gambaro’s decision to run for Congress is nothing short of audacious. This is a man who was never elected by the people of Palm Coast. He was appointed through a questionable process that bypassed the will of the voters.

His very presence on the City Council has been clouded by controversy, legal challenges and an ever-growing public distrust. Now, without ever having stood before voters in a single election, he’s aiming for a $174,000-a-year seat in the U.S. Congress?

Gambaro’s leap from an unelected City Council appointment to a federal campaign reeks of political opportunism.

The voters of Florida’s 6th District deserve better.

BRIAN SINGER Flagler County

Editor’s Note: Circuit Judge Chris France said of Gambaro’s appointment: “Although the result is flawed, the charter was complied with to fill the vacancy.”

Possibility of a ‘real’ golf course in Flagler Beach is great for the city

Dear Editor:

As a Flagler Beach resident I am thrilled to hear that a real golf course and facility is possibility in the works. I worked in the golf business and enjoyed five great years at River Bend Golf Club. Sadly all golf courses are now closed in Ormond Beach

along with Indigo Lakes close by. I also enjoyed playing the game but found giving five to six hours on a weekend became not enjoyable. The idea of a short 12-hole course is a breath of fresh air along with practice areas and restaurant. Revenue for the city, benefiting real estate around the course and area is a good thing. Hopefully there will be a chance to grow the game perhaps with First Tee and encouraging junior golf, because that is the future of the game. I look forward to seeing this move forward and getting back to the game that I loved. Also not having to cross the bridge to play golf again. Fore!

CHRIS SCARANO Flagler Beach

Editor’s Note: The Flagler Beach City Commission agreed on July 10 to negotiate with Ocean Palms Golf Club LLC and principal manager Jeff Ryan for the purchase of the city-owned nine-hole golf course at 3600 S. Central Ave. The ownership group plans to redesign the course to a 12-hole configuration.

Send letters to brent@ observerlocalnews.com.

Include first and last name, as well as city of residence. Editor may alter the letter for clarity and/or length.

Do dogs smile? Maybe not in the traditional sense

AMY CAROTENUTO

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Can dogs smile? Most animal experts don’t really consider that a dog will “smile” in the traditional sense.

However, most of the time when dogs have that wide-mouth panting with tongue out, front teeth showing, sometimes a slightly upturned expression paired with relaxed body posture, soft eyes and a wagging tail, they are indeed happy. So it’s easy to relate that expression to human smiles. A dog’s smile can stem from the fact that dogs recognize human facial expressions and tend to mirror them. In short, your dog is watching your face, and when you smile, they might try to match that energy. Then when we react

by giving praise or treats — the dog is rewarded for this behavior and does it more often.

Dog smiles are more than just cute — they’re a part of how dogs communicate with us and with each other.

Another form of a “dog smile” can be a “submissive grin,” which is a dog’s way of letting you know they are not a threat. This is much like how dogs lower their tail or lie down and expose their belly to indicate they know you’re the boss. Your dog may also give a submissive grin if you want them to do something they don’t want to do — such as take a B-A-T-H. Your dog is essentially saying “please don’t make me take a bath.”

Or perhaps you came home to a torn-up couch cushion, or a trash bin strewn through the

house. That submissive grin, coupled with the lowered head and tail between the legs lets you know who the guilty party is ... but who can be mad at that face? The submissive grin has worked to defuse the situation.

Submissive grins show the front teeth but not the longer canine teeth or “fangs.” If a dog bares his canine teeth, that’s a whole different story.

A dog may look like it’s smiling during rigorous play or a brisk walk, but the “smile” could simply be your dog panting. Happy panting typically involves relaxed muscles, an open mouth, and a tongue hanging out as a way of cooling down. Watch always for overheating. A panting dog who is overheated may have bright red gums due to increased blood flow, or

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pale gums due to shock. They may show signs of tension in their body or face.

So, OK, maybe dogs can smile, but do they laugh?

The equivalent to laughter for a dog appears to be a sound that dogs make while playing. This “play pant” is a breathy, forced exhalation of air that dogs use to initiate play. Just like laughter reduces stress in humans, this “play pant” also can reduce stress in dogs. There’s even been research done with recordings of dogs playing and the “play panting” sounds lowering the stress level of other dogs.

By learning canine body language and paying attention to the cues and signals that dogs give, we can better understand and communicate with our canine family members, strengthening the

“Sky,” is a staff favorite at the Flagler Humane Society, partially because of that smile of hers. She is completely housetrained and up for adoption.

human/animal bond. We can all agree that our dogs make us smile, laugh and bring joy to our lives. Let’s hope that we can do the same for them. Amy Carotenuto is the executive director of Flagler Humane Society.

Courtesy photo

Gianna Capri Courtesy photo

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Art and music abound

Ormond Beach’s Art Walk joined by Music+Arts Expo

MICHELE MEYERS

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Art enthusiasts, music connoisseurs and explorers ventured out to enjoy Ormond Beach’s Art Walk event on Aug. 2. Always held on the first Saturday of the month from 3-7 p.m., family and friends either strolled from galleryto-gallery in the city’s historic arts district or grabbed a free shuttle driven by longtime resident Mike Fanning.

Art appreciation, music enlightenment and the fun continued at the Ormond Memorial Arts Museum and Gardens where the pop-up exhibition included works by the U.S. Coast Guard and a Music and Arts Expo presented by The Locals Mix until 9 p.m.

Fanning said he has been shuttling for the art walk for about seven years. His involvement began when he met Julia Truilo, who was Ormond Beach MainStreet’s executive director at the time. She was starting a farmers’ market and was looking for someone to setup and work on Thursday mornings. He just happened to have the only qualification required — willingness to wake up at four in the morning.

“I thought, well, I’m working for myself — I don’t have anything to do other than my store, so I took Thursdays off to do the farmers’ market,” he said. “Then while everyone else was buying sports cars, I bought a 15 passenger van for my midlife crisis. Julia found out and asked if I wanted to shuttle.”

The shuttle service gives

attendees quick access to the galleries and businesses involved with the art walk — Art Spotlight, Fern & Fable Books, Frame of Mind - Gold Leaf Coffee Co., Nauti Pets, Novel Tea Book Shop, Neighborhood Scoop, Ocean Art Gallery, Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, The Casements, The Pocket Jeweler and The Studio by Artist Angel Lowden. Availability to a shuttle service that passes the galleries on a continuous loop is important for Angel Lowden, who owns The Studio and is co-owner of the Novel Tea Book Shop with Stephanie Gonter, which share a space located off the main corridor on Tomoka Ave. Lowden opened her studio in 2022. The following year, Gonter brought the Novel Tea Book Shop in as a pop-up during the August art walk. The two discussed a trial run of three months.

Gonter said she never left. They are currently 50-50 partners in the book shop and run local nonprofit Creative Chapter together. The organization gives them a platform on which they focus on education and advocacy for the arts and literature in the community. They recently opened a cafe in the book shop, where 50% of all proceeds go toward their nonprofit.

“We make great partners because we focus on different things from each other which makes it harmonious,” Lowden said.

Currently, their top selling photographer is local artist Kyra Lieberman. Her sister Reese Lieberman sells her poetry books in the shop.

“We give the opportunity for photographers and young, up-and-coming creatives to be able to showcase their work or put their creations in here to see how it goes,” Lowden

said.

First-time art walkers, Joan Reilly and Alice Lopez traveled from Aventura in MiamiDade County to Ormond Beach for a vacation. Reilly

said they had not anticipated that the event would be as good as it was. Lopez said the artists were very inclusive and welcoming, making them feel like family.

“Enjoyed the artwork immensely because a lot of times you go to art shows and they’re so off-putting,” Lopez said. “Everyone here is so friendly. They’ll tell you their motivation or they’ll tell you what inspires or will tell you where the medium came from so you have a history with with what you’re seeing and watching.”

Last month, Art Spotlight co-founder and artist Teri Althouse said they had 419 people come though the gallery in four hours. They usually average 300 people.

“The Ormond Art Walk gives us exposure,” Althouse said. “We have 27 local artists here in the back of the gallery but in the front of the gallery every month we do an open call show. So we can have 50-60 artists. This is an opportunity for people to come and see 50 or 60 completely different styles of work. It’s been incredible.”

Art Spotlight visitors were given a chance to select their favorite work of art as they perused the gallery. The People’s Choice Award went to Lottie Albright for her submission of an image of a Ponce Inlet dune to the open call Black & White Photography Show, which runs through Aug. 30.

Art created by members of the U.S. Coast Guard were part of a pop-up exhibition at the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens. The exhibition is part of the Coast Guard Art Program, which uses fine art as an outreach tool for educating diverse audiences about the Coast Guard, according to the OMAM website. The museum also sponsored the Music and Arts Expo presented by The Locals Mix.

Danna Alencar founded The Locals Mix in 2020 and is celebrating the fourth year of the Music and Arts Expo’s inception which features an original music competition. Videos of the musicians’ performances are posted on The Locals Mix YouTube channel where people from around the world can vote for their favorite performer.

Aug. 2 was the second Music and Arts Expo out of four — the next one being the final on Oct. 4 and the awards show on Dec. 6. Alencar said every expo is a celebration of local talent, artisans and vendors.

This year, Annye Docherty demonstrated live painting throughout the event as Fun Coast Bartending served up specialty cocktails and snacks.

Patrons could also grab a bite at the Wabi Sabi food truck and browse specialty vendors — Sirens Touch-Handmade Treasures, Squeaky Clucks Artisan Soaps Co., Chick by the Sea, UL Creations, Friday Bodycare and Anastasia’s Permanent Jewelry. Round two performers included Robby Shambles, Chris Kennedy, Ian Kelley, SnakPak, Wispi and Another Day in Paradise.

“As a community-based organization, The Locals Mix is dedicated to supporting and showcasing local creatives,” Alencar said. “There are many ways for community members to get involved whether by becoming a member, volunteering or participating as musicians, artists or vendors. We also welcome sponsors or supporters who share our mission of nurturing creativity in our community.”

“As a communitybased organization, The Locals Mix is dedicated to supporting and showcasing local creatives. There are many ways for community members to get involved whether by becoming a member, volunteering or participating as musicians, artists or vendors. We also welcome sponsors or supporters who share our mission of nurturing creativity in our community.”

DANNA ALENCAR, founder of The Locals Mix

Artist Amber Lyn (left) with friends — Ormond Beach residents John and Valerie Beuhmeyer.

Art Spotlight co-owners Teri Althouse and Thays França.

Ormond Beach resident Mike Fanning offers free shuttle service to the First Saturday Art Walk attendees on Aug. 2. He has lived in Ormond for 63 years and often shares history of the area while he drives.

The Locals Mix social media guru Brittany Fornier takes photos of performers during the music expo.

Golden Leaf Coffee Co. employee Faith Hannon laughs as she closes the business for the night.

Artist Annye Docherty paints live during the Locals Mix original music competition on the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens rooftop. Photos by Michele Meyers

LOCAL EVENTS

THURSDAY, AUG. 7

RECIPES AND READS

CULINARY LAB: THE CULTURE AND HISTORY OF FOOD — AFTERNOON TEA

When: 3 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach

Regional Public Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach

Details: Enjoy iced tea while learning more about the history of tea, presented by library staff. Free event.

FRIDAY, AUG. 8

MOONRISE AT THE BEACH

When: 7:45-8:30 p.m.

Where: Gamble Rogers Memorial State Park, 3100 S Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler

Beach Details: Take in the view of the moon rising over the

Atlantic Ocean. Bring binoculars and a camera for photo opportunities. Entrance into the park is $5 per vehicle. Call 386-517-2086.

SATURDAY, AUG. 9

LOCAL BRANDS ANNUAL FISHING EXPO

When: 8 a.m. to noon

Where: Social Club of Palm Coast, 51 Old Kings Road North, Palm Coast

Details: Join the Flagler Sportfishing Club for its annual fishing expo. Get advice and see local vendors under one roof. Free admission.

WOMEN’S PRAYER BREAKFAST

When: 9-11 a.m.

Where: First Baptist Church of Palm Coast, Activities Center, 6050 Palm Coast Parkway NW, Palm Coast

Details: Attend a morning of fellowship, food and faith. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. Free

admission. RSVP requested. Visit fbcpc.org.

FLAGLER COUNTY

SHERIFF’S OFFICE

SAFETY EXPO

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: European Village, 101 Palm Harbor Parkway, Palm

Coast

Details: Join Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly and the FCSO for their annual safety expo. Learn safety information, meet the FCSO team and enjoy some family fun.

CARRYING HOPE

BACK 2 SCHOOL

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: South Ormond Neighborhood Center, 176 Division Ave., Ormond Beach

Details: Attend educational sessions, receive school supplies and enjoy games and food at this back-to-school event presented by Access to Excellence Global Inc.

HISTORY IN THE PARK

When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: James F. Holland Memorial Park, 18 Florida Park Drive N., Palm Coast

Details: The Palm Coast Historical Society is hosting this family-friendly event. Explore the Palm Coast Historical Society Museum, which has free admission. Outside, enjoy yard games and food trucks.

PIRATE GAME NIGHT

When: 6-9 p.m.

Where: Palm Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE, Palm Coast

Details: Join the Seawolf Privateers for a Plunder Game Night, an evening of games and giving back. Tickets cost $50. Proceeds support foster and displaced children in the Flagler community. Visit seawolfprivateers.org/fundraisers.

SUNDAY, AUG. 10

‘SMALL AND MIGHTY’ OPENING RECEPTION

When: 12-3:30 p.m.

Where: Expressions Art Gallery, inside Grand Living Realty building, 2298 Colbert Lane, Palm Coast

Details: See artwork by Trish Vevera and Bettie Eubanks. Reception is free and open to al. Refreshments will bbe served.

TUESDAY, AUG. 12

2025 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS BREAKFAST & EXPO

When: 9 a.m. to noon

Where: Palm Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE, Palm Coast

Details: Attend this free event to learn how to be ready in the event of a disaster. Doors open at 8 a.m. for a continental breakfast. Speakers will begin at 9 a.m. The first 100 attendees will receive hurricane preparedness kits. Free and open to the public.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 13

AARP MEETING

When: 10 a.m. to noon

Where: Universalist Unitarian Church, 56 N. Halifax Dr., Ormond Beach

Details: This month’s guest speaker is Jeff Boyle, awardwinning author of literary fiction. He will speak about the creative writing process. The public is invited. An option $5 lunch will follow. For more information, call 386-341-9013.

THURSDAY, AUG. 14

TIGER BAY CLUB OF VOLUSIA COUNTY

When: 12-1 p.m.

Where: Halifax River Yacht Club, 331 S. Beach St., Daytona Beach

Details: This month’s guest speaker will be U.S. Rep. Randy Fine. Social time begins at 11:30 a.m. and the luncheon is at noon. Guests are welcome with a reservation. Email dconnors@tigerbayclubvolusia.org.

ART OF HEALING

WORKSHOP: FELTED SOAP

When: 2-3:30 p.m.

Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach

Details: Guest instructor Liz Canali will lead this workshop where participants will explore how wool becomes felt and learn the process of felting to create a useful soap and washcloth combo. No art experience is necessary and all supplies are provided. Free admission. Registration required. Visit www.ormondartmuseum.org/classesprograms.

FRIDAY, AUG. 15

TURTLE TALK

When: 10-11 a.m.

Where: Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreational Area, 3100 S. Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach

Details: Learn about the role sea turtles play in Florida and how your actions can help preserve these animals for generations. All ages welcome. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Park entry fee applies.

SATURDAY, AUG. 16

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.

GALLERY TALK WITH CHANNING GRAY When: 11 a.m. to noon

Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach

Details: Exhibiting artist Channing Gray will present an in-depth talk about her solo exhibition, “Into Neverland: Swirling Dreams of Southern Memories.” A Q+A session will follow. Free program. Registration requested. Visit www.ormondartmuseum.org/ classes-programs.

ONGOING WOMEN’S BOOK CLUB When: 12:30-2 p.m. every Tuesday

Where: Central Baptist Church, 152 Fairview Ave., Daytona Beach Details: Join this book club, which meets in the Marchman Building, room 117. Contact Sylvia Meincke at 386-4515223.

MOAS EXHIBITIONS

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday Where: Museum of Arts and Sciences, 352 S. Nova Road, Daytona Beach

Details: Want to spend a day looking at fine art? The Museum of Arts and Sciences has the following shows on display: “Bugs Outside the Box: Discover the Art Within the Sciences” ; “Shoosty Bugs: An Art Infestation” ; and “It’s a Ship Show: Florida’s Maritime Canvas.”

VOLUSIA MEMORIAL PARK Ormond Beach VolusiaMemorialFunerals.com 386-677-8979 Planning ahead is

In eight weeks, JROTC

Starting with virtually no experience, Jasmine Vitkauskas completed the program at Indiana Wesleyan University.

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Flagler Palm Coast High School Air Force Junior ROTC cadet Jasmine Vitkauskas participated in the intensive eight-week JROTC Flight Academy this summer and came home on July 24 with her private pilot’s license.

She had virtually no previous experience flying a plane before she began the program at Indiana Wesleyan University. Three weeks in, she was flying solo.

“When (the flight instructor) thought I was ready, he got out of the plane and it was just me in there. I was like, ‘Wow, I’m about to do this by myself.’ It was really weird, but it was also kind of freeing, because then it’s just you and the plane,” she said. “You can make your own decisions, just knowing that everything

cadet earns private pilot’s license

during the summer before her sophomore year. But she couldn’t apply until she turned 17. Fellow FPC cadet Josh Fallon had just completed the program in which selected cadets receive full scholarships at an accredited aviation university.

“(Fallon) talked about his experience and he said it was really amazing, because he wanted to be a pilot and he had a whole plan from there,” Vitkauskas said. “I thought that could be me.”

TWO FPC CADETS

SELECTED THIS YEAR

you do is impacting how the plane is flying. So it’s really a confidence booster. It’s like, ‘Wow, I can do this.’”

Her experience in the program turned out to be even better than she expected, she said.

“I knew it was going to be awesome, but I didn’t realize how awesome it was,” she said. “When I say, I didn’t have a boring day, I did not have a boring day. I flew all the time.”

Vitkauskas first heard about about the Flight Academy

Fallon is now entering his junior year in the Air Force ROTC program at Auburn University. He is planning to become a pilot in the Air Force, said Lt. Col. Melvin Baskerville, FPC’s senior JROTC instructor.

Vitkauskas applied for a spot in the Flight Academy earlier this year. Out of more than 1,200 cadets nationwide who applied this year, just 194 were accepted. Two were from FPC — Vitkauskas and Jillian Rivera, who graduated from FPC this spring.

FOCUS ON FAITH

Lifecoast Church in Palm Coast leads humanitarian, ministering mission in Belize

On July 12, members from the Lifecoast Church in Palm Coast traveled to Belize on a humanitarian and ministering mission.

Pastor Brian Kingsley

Ormond Beach church launches ministry for seniors

Carol Brown, a member of the Salty Church of Ormond Beach is launching a new ministry program entitled “Seniors at Salty”. This ministry will focus on “caring for, connecting with, and celebrating the seniors”

in their community. The program will match volunteers with a senior (person sixty years of age or older). Those volunteers will then give the little extra help that is needed. Every match is personal and is there to help both individuals. To learn more, visit salty. org/seniors.

— ELIZABETH MOORE

Brought to you by:

Stephenson, Wilcox and Associates

Jasmine Vitkauskas takes the controls during her flight Academy at Indiana Wesleyan University. Courtesy photo

Planet e Studios presents ‘The Big Bad Musical’ at Matanzas theater

The musical was directed by Hannah Pierce and Assistant Director Mackinzie Rogan.

OBSERVER STAFF

Planet e Studios’ Summer Musical Theater Camp recently presented “The Big Bad Musical” at the Matanzas High School Pirate Theater. Held on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 1 and 2, the musical was directed by Hannah Pierce and Assistant Director Mackinzie Rogan.

“The Big Bad Musical” told the story of the Big Bad Wolf in a courtroom setting, where he is slapped with a class-action lawsuit by fairy tale characters including Little Red Riding Hood, her grandmother, the Three Little Pigs and the Shepherd in charge of the Boy Who Cried Wolf.

With multiple endings possible, every performance was unique.

CORPORATE OFFICE - 386-677-SOLD (7653)

900 West Granada Blvd., Ste. 3, Ormond Beach, FL 32174

BEACHSIDE OFFICE - 386-441-SOLD (7653)

Jennifer James 386-214-2041.

People enjoy music of Jimmy Buffett at Palm Coast Concert Series

The Concert Series, presented by Palm Coast Ford, is held on the last Thursday of every month.

OBSERVER STAFF

The Palm Coast Concert Series’ second event of the year, held on July 31, featured Jimmy Buffett tribute band Landfall at the The Stage at Town Center.

The Concert Series, presented by Palm Coast Ford, is held on the last Thursday of every month from 6-8 p.m.

In addition to live music, the event features food trucks, vendors, yard games and beer and wine. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair.

The next Concert Series event is scheduled for Aug. 28 and will feature the Southern Rock Revival band.

Boy Who Cried Wolf: Luke Ferraro. Photos by Hannah Hodge

Landfall, a Jimmy Buffett tribute band, plays at the concert series. Photos by Hannah Hodge

Cathy Carpenter claps at the end of the song.

Blanca Bryson and Chad Bryson with their straw umbrella at the concert series.

Allyse Ketter and Brian Ketter have a bean bag competition at the concert series.

Judge Wise Old Man: Avaleigh Donaldson

Big Bad Wolf Clarity McGeehan, with the Wolf Pack: Lennox Belcher, Millei Rathjen, Lukas Hosier, Gabby Belcher, Daton Rathjen

Fairy Godmother: Danielle Cox

Fairy Godmother Danielle Cox

The three pigs: Emmely Campbell, Kenzie Lohse, Melody Richter

Ed Foundation volunteers pack 2,000 supply kits

Flagler County Education Foundation volunteers packed 2,000 school supply kits for the STUFF Bus program during its annual packing day on July 23.

The kits were distributed to Flagler Schools students at the Back to School Jam on Saturday, Aug. 2, at Flagler Palm Coast High School

“What an incredible day of community spirit and dedication. We are absolutely thrilled with the amazing dedication of our fantastic volunteers,” Stephanie Ellis, the lead of the program, said in a press release.

Matanzas students place second at FBA competition

The Matanzas High School Future Builders of America took home a check for $1,000 for their second-place finish at the Southeast Building Conference Design/Build Competition on July 24-25 in Kissimmee.

Matanzas High School building construction students Nolan Schmidt, Emma Guldan, Gabi Spence and Blaine Vogel accept the check for $1,000 for their second-place finish at the Future Builders of America Design/Build Competition. Courtesy photos

Inspiration of Hope holds summer internship program

Inspiration of Hope Community Resources Inc. held a four-week paid summer internship program for ages 14-17 to train youth for future employment opportunities.

The program was a success, Inspiration of Hope President Donna Easterling said, with the participants interning at Bunnell City Hall, the Carver Center’s Great Minds Summer Math and Science Camp and Bennell Elementary School. Tanya Felman interned

The building construction students built a portable workshop with caster wheels, a chop saw, table saw and sliding shelves. The Pirates also placed second at the FBA competition last year. Nolan Schmidt, Gabi Spence, Blaine Vogel and recent graduate Emma Guldan accepted the prize.

at Bunnell City Hall; Isaiah Chatman interned at Carver Community Center’s Great Minds summer camp; Kavion Brown interned at Bunnell Elementary School.

Maryiotti Johnson was a partner in this endeavor as well.

The Inspiration of Hope Community Resources life skills program for middle and high school students will begin its fall semester on Sept. 17. For registration information and packet, email IOHCR125@gmail.com.

Margarita Society of Volusia County donates $4,500

The Margarita Society of Volusia County recently presented three local nonprofits with $1,500 donations each during Christmas in July.

The recipients were the Early Learning Coalition of Flagler and Volusia Counties, the Jewish Federation of Volusia and Flagler Counties and the FUTURES Foundation for Volusia County Schools.

The contributions, totaling $4,500, came from additional proceeds collected from the Tree Sponsorship platform from last year’s annual Margarita Ball, according to a press release.

The next annual Margarita Ball will be held in November at the Ocean Center. Send stories to brent@ observerlocalnews.com.

PUZZLED

Jewish Federation Executive Director Rabbi Rob Lennick (second from left) and representatives from the Margarita Society of Volusia County.

Participants of Inspiration of Hope Community Resources summer internship program.

The Casements Camera Club presents July photo assignment 2025 winners

Each year, The Casements Camera Club presents a special assignment to its more than 80 members, with the goal for their photos to be selected among the top five best by their club peers.

This year’s assignment was “Translate an idiom or saying into a creative image,” according to a press release. All members had the opportunity to vote for their five favorites.

“All entries were quite creative and it was a challenge to just pick the Top 5,” Club President Ans van Beek said.

For her first place win, van Beek was awarded a complimentary club membership for 2026. All entries can be viewed on The Casements Camera Club’s website at www.casementscameraclub.com under the

THE WINNERS

First place: Ans van Beek, “Thinking Outside the Box”

Second place: Joan Robinson, “It’s Raining Cats and Dogs”

Third place: Jaci Hanson, “Putting His Money Where His Mouth Is”

Fourth place: Donna Armstrong, “Like a Fish Out of Water”

Fifth Place: Stan Mitchell, “Even a Blind Squirrel Finds a Nut Sometimes”

“Thinking Outside the Box” by Ans van Beek. Courtesy photos

“It’s Raining Cats and Dogs” by Joan Robinson

“Putting His Money Where His Mouth Is” by Jaci Hanson

“Even a Blind Squirrel Finds a Nut Sometimes” by Stan Mitchell

SIDE LINES

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FPC weightlifters sweep at Flagler Open AAU event

Eight Flagler Palm Coast weightlifters swept both championships in their weight classes at the AAU Flagler Open on Saturday, Aug. 2, at FPC.

Cody Strawser (139-pound class), Jackson Fedun (169), Hansell Bruce (219), Joseph Casanova (238) and Matt McFall (unlimited) each won boys traditional and Olympic titles. Angelis Rosa (110), Nya Williams (119) and Lynnsie Jones (183) each won both girls titles. Williams won three gold medals at the USA Weightlifting National Championships

earlier this summer.

Three boys — Aidan Bull (154), Marlon Alvarado (199), Ethan Mancini (199) — each won one title Saturday. Buddy Taylor Middle School eighth grader Bella Acevedo placed second in both competitions at 139 pounds. Flagler lifters who placed among the top three in their weight classes (with their top individual lifts — snatch and clean and jerk for Olympic and clean and jerk and bench press for traditional):

BOYS

Anthony Giacobbe (129) 2nd Oly 135/165, 2nd Trad 165/170

Cody Strawser (139) 1st Oly

190/240, 1st Trad 240/225

Alex Huynh (139) 2nd Oly

170/225, 2nd Trad 225/215

Aidan Bull (154) 2nd Oly

125/195, 1st Trad 195/185

Hunter Womack (154) 3rd

Oly 110/145, 3rd Trad 145/140

Jackson Fedun (169) 1st Oly

205/260, 1st Trad 260/215

Landon Gates (183) 2nd Oly

205/250, 2nd Trad 250/245

Marlon Alvarado (199) 1st

Oly 200/250

Ethan Mancini (199) 2nd

Oly 125/180, 1st Trad 180/215

Bryce McNitt (199) 3rd Oly

130/160, 2nd Trad 160/170

Hansell Bruce (219) 1st Oly

185/250, 1st Trad 250/250

Tyler Davidson (219) 2nd

Oly 175/235

Gavin Battaglia (219) 3rd

Trad 185/230

Joseph Casanova (238) 1st

210/285, 1st Trad 285/255

Matt McFall (UNL) 1st Oly

250/315, 1st Trad 315/325

GIRLS

Kristy Owens (101) 3rd Trad

60/60

Angelis Rosa (110) 1st Oly

80/110, 1st Trad 110/105

Amelia Jurec (110) 2nd Oly

70/90, 2nd Trad 90/80

Nya Williams (119) 1st Oly

150/195, 1st Trad 195/150

Bella Acevedo (139) 2nd

Oly 85/115, 2nd Trad 115/100

(She is an 8th grader at Buddy Taylor)

Beatriz Pereira (139) 3rd

Oly 85/110, 3rd Trad 110/85

Cali Weehunt (154) 2nd Oly

85/130, 3rd Trad 130/110

Makayla Melton (154) 3rd

Oly 85/120, 2nd Trad 120/125

Brianna Long (169) 3rd Oly

85/110

Lynnsie Jones (183) 1st Oly

95/135, 1st Trad 135/135

Jaysa Hopkins (183) 2nd

Oly 85/110, 2nd Trad 110/95

Kelsie Fedun (183) 3rd Oly

65/85

Alea Hardy (183) 3rd Trad

95/105

Arianna Almeida (UNL) 2nd

Oly 90/135, 2nd Trad 135/115

Ormond Beach girl wins seven medals at cycling track nationals

Kate Miller, 12, Ormond Beach, won seven medals at the USA Cycling Junior Track National Championships on July 24-28 at the Jerry Baker Memorial Velodrome in Redmond, Washington.

It was her first time competing on a track bike and on a velodrome banked oval track, her father, Joe Miller, said.

Kate won three gold medals, placing first in the 3-lap scratch race, the 500-meter time trial and the omnium multi-race point event for girls ages 11-12. She also won two silvers and three bronze medals.

She set a track record of 44.094 in the 500-meter time trial, Joe Miller said.

Kate has been cycling competitively for about three years, but she had never tried a fixed-gear track bike until mid July, her father said.

“We realized she had the leg speed and lap time that would have won (events at the Junior National Championships) the last several years,” Joe Miller said.

A local USA Cycling instructor/official approved her entry, Miller said.

This has been a summer of firsts for Kate. She also began

mountain-biking racing, transitioning from pavement to rugged trails. Kate, who rides for Ponte Vedra Racing in USA Cycling events, is also participating in National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) events for the first time.

Kate, who is a student at St. Brendan Catholic School in Ormond Beach, has started a NICA team, the Volusia Navigators, named after St. Brendan the Navigator. Joe Miller said they are looking for other cyclists in fifth through 12th grade to join the team.

Palm Coast’s Mad Dogs win bronze at AAU Junior Olympic Games

The Mad Dogs Flag Football of Palm Coast Elite 15U team won the bronze medal on July 27 at the AAU Junior Olympic Games at the University of Houston’s TDECU Stadium.

The 15U Mad Dogs won five of six games over the weekend with its only loss coming to another Florida team — gold medalist Spring Hill Elite, 13-7. The Mad

Dogs won the bronze medal game, 14-6 over 32 Sports of Connecticut.

After winning three bracket games on July 25, The Mad Dogs defeated the Florida Elite Colts 30-0 in a playoff game to set up a semifinal matchup July 27 against Spring Hill.

After the tournament, the Mad Dogs Elite 15U held onto its No. 2 national ranking in the Zorts Power Index.

Two Mad Dogs 14U teams also qualified for the Junior Olympic Games. The Mad Dogs Elite 14U Red team made the trip to Houston and finished 1-3 including the playoff.

The Mad Dogs Elite 15U roster: QB Landon Arzuaga, WR/DB Lucas Siharaj (captain), RB/S Shawn Smith (captain), WR Cameron Mel, DB Kayson Magsino, WR Carter Kershner, C Colby Kershner, DB Yamon Jordan, WR/C Nolan Fitzgerald, LB/C Mathias Parker LB/WR Chris Finkelstein, C/WR/DB Jett Arzuaga, Coach Joey Arzuaga, Coach Chris Parks, Team Manager Stacey Arzuaga.

WHERE COTTON GROWS, SHADOWS LINGER

The Sound of the Whippoorwill is a moving memoir set in the postWWII deep south. It narrates the struggles of a fourth-generation white family on a cotton farm, wrestling with hard labor, mental illness, and child abuse. The narrative also explores the complex racial dynamics between the family and their black farm workers, delineating the stark inequities of a racially segregated society. A poignant exploration of resilience and the human spirit, it offers a profound reflection on cultural and social issues.

Bella Acevedo, an eighth grader at Buddy Taylor Middle School, placed second in both the Olympic and traditional competitions at 139 pounds.

Beatriz Pereira placed third in both Olympic and traditional competitions at 139 pounds.

Ethan Mancini placed first in traditional and second in Olympic in the 199-pound weight class. Photos by Brent Woronoff

The Mad Dogs Flag Football of Palm Coast Elite 15U team won the bronze medal at the AAU Junior Olympic Games at the University of Houston. Courtesy photo

Kate Miller with the medals she won at the USA Cycling Junior Track National Championships. Courtesy photo

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. 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, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. 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. 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, 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 July 31, 2025.

Personal Representative: Dennis Patrick Wilson c/o Legacy Law Associates, P.L. 313 S. Palmetto Ave. Daytona Beach, FL 32114

Attorney for Personal Representative: W. Denis Shelley

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 273872 Legacy Law Associates, P.L. 313 S. Palmetto Ave. Daytona Beach, FL 32114 Telephone: (386) 252-2531 Fax: (386) 868-5371

E-Mail: shelley@legacylaw313.com

Secondary E-Mail: linda@legacylaw313.com Jul. 31; Aug. 7, 2025 25-00349I

SECOND INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

File No. 2025 12165 PRDL Division 10 IN RE: ESTATE OF JOSEPH ACHILLES PRINCE, aka JOSEPH A. PRINCE Deceased. The administration of the estate of Joseph Achilles Prince, also known as Joseph A. Prince, deceased, whose date of death was April 4, 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. 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, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. 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. 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, 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 July 31, 2025. Personal Representative: Alan N. Prince c/o Legacy Law Associates, P.L. 313 S. Palmetto Ave. Daytona Beach, FL 32114

Attorney for Personal Representative: W. Denis Shelley

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 273872 Legacy Law Associates, P.L.

313 S. Palmetto Ave. Daytona Beach, FL 32114

Telephone: (386) 252-2531

Fax: (386) 868-5371

E-Mail: shelley@legacylaw313.com

Secondary E-Mail: linda@legacylaw313.com Jul. 31; Aug. 7, 2025 25-00352I

SECOND INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

File No. 2025 11603 PRDL Division 10 IN RE: ESTATE OF MICHAEL WEINER A.K.A.

MICHAEL I. WEINER A.K.A.

MICHAEL IAN WEINER Deceased.

The administration of the estate of Michael Weiner a.k.a. Michael I. Weiner a.k.a. Michael Ian Weiner, deceased, whose date of death was February 26, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 101 North Alabama Avenue, 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. 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, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. 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. 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, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

date of first

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