City Council could consider lowering speed limits to 25 mph in residential areas.
SIERRA WILLIAMS
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The Palm Coast City Council has decided to move forward with creating a traffic calming manual for the city’s residential streets, despite pushback from some residents.
“To me, inconveniencing people is worth slowing them down a little bit — if it’s working,” Pontieri said.
The city completed a pilot program — performed by the firm Kimley-Horn — testing the placement of three different kinds of traffic calming installations: speed cushions, lane narrowing and chicanes, which are curves placed on the roadway to force drivers to slow down. The program also included a survey section to gauge the response from residents.
The study showed that the speed cushions had a significant impact on reducing speed in the areas they were installed. The city installed cushions at four locations along each Florida Park Drive and Cimmaron Drive and the data showed that most drivers reduced their speeds by 4-5 mph.
Now, the council has decided to move forward with creating a traffic calming manual for the city.
“It wouldn’t be us saying, ‘Let’s put some here, put some there,’” Councilman Ty Miller said. “It would be based on this data ... And then going forward, a process by which the residents can request those speed bumps.”
Kimley-Horn’s Emmanuel Rodriguez did recom -
mend that the city decide on a threshold of support — he suggested 70% of a neighborhood’s residents — be met before the speed cushions were installed. Miller agreed. “I don’t want us to get into a situation where we’re spending money and then pulling stuff out and spending money to pull it out,” he said.
C SECTION CONCERNS
Despite the safety concerns of some residents, overall, the majority of speakers at the council meeting were against the traffic calming installations, particularly in the C Section.
Catherine Tubb said she has some of the speed cushions directly in front of her home. She said the speeding continues, but now there is more traffic and she constantly hears the sounds of vehicles going over the bumps and then speeding back up.
“It’s been absolutely horrible since these have been put in,” Tubb said. “We want them removed.”
Many C Section residents signed a petition asking for the speed cushions to be removed from Cimmaron Drive. Resident Joann Alberico said she has seen an increase in traffic incidents since the cushions were installed.
“I submit that the speed bumps on Cimarron do not create a safer environment for drivers or pedestrians, but in fact are creating more hazards, inconvenience and safety issues,” she said.
LOWERING SPEED LIMITS?
After hearing the negative feedback from so many residents, particularly in the C Section, the council decided to remove the speed cushions installed on Cimmaron Drive. “I think from what we’re hearing from the community,
Cimmaron is not the street,”
Mayor Mike Norris said.
The ones on Florida Park Drive will stay, at least until the application process is finalized and the neighborhood residents can vote on the keeping cushions or not. But the council is not limiting itself to just installing traffic calming fixtures.
Many residents who spoke up against the speed cushions instead called for the city to lower speed limits and increase law enforcement.
Pontieri said that while the city cannot control where the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office patrols or how often, she is open to reconsidering lowering the speed limits.
Councilman Dave Sullivan pointed out that Flagler Beach recently lowered its speed limits. “It does work,” he said.
But lowering the speed limits comes with a larger price tag than installing traffic calming methods. It cost the city around $20,000 to install the eight speed cushion locations, Acting City Manager Lauren Johnston said, while a study completed in June 2024 showed that to reduce the speed limits from 30 mph to 25 mph in residential neighborhoods would cost closer to $2 million.
Pontieri said the price tag could be worth it.
“I still think that is something that we should explore,” she said. “So, in my mind, this analysis is not done yet.”
Her fellow council members agreed, and the council directed staff to look into adding the cost of lowering the speed limits to the upcoming budget cycle.
“Let’s look at all the options,” Councilman Charles Gambaro said. “... I think we need to take a hard look at reducing the speed limit overall.”
Gas station distance requirements?
How close should gas stations be to neighborhoods?
Citizen brings question to Planning Board.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Can the city of Ormond Beach implement distance requirements between new gas stations and existing residential neighborhoods?
City staff was directed to look into the issue by the Planning Board after a discussion at its meeting on Thursday, May 8. The issue surfaced after residents of Collins Street discovered earlier this year that a Circle K gas station and convenience store was slated for construction at the former Bank of America building at 699 S. Nova Road.
Because the property is zoned B-8 Commercial, and a convenience store with a fueling station is a conditional use, the project doesn’t need to go before the City Commission for approval. It only needs to be reviewed by the city’s Site Plan Review Committee.
Ormond Beach resident Amber Bobak has led the charge for changing the requirements. It may be too late to help their neighborhood, but she’s hoping changes can help others.
“My hope is that we can protect our residents from the future shock of what my neighbors and I have recently experienced and protect our community’s future health in the process,” Bobak said.
Bobak and her neighbors attended a neighborhood meeting on Feb. 10 regarding the Circle K project. Prior to that, they had never consid-
ered that a gas station could replace the bank, which had been there over 40 years.
“I don’t believe there’s anything that can’t be worked out,” Bobak said. “Even if this does not help my neighbors and I with our current situation, I refuse to stay silent.”
Some Planning Board members expressed interest on exploring the issue, even as city staff advised them on waiting for more information before calling for a workshop.
Board member Al Jorczak said the data presented to the board in the agenda packet — including reports by the Community and Environmental Defense Services organization on health and environmental risks posed by gas stations — was a “real eye opener.” He also commented on the fact that the city’s requirements would allow for three gas stations in the same intersection.
(The Circle K would be located across from two existing gas stations, the Mobil at 690 S. Nova Road and the Exxon at 700 S. Nova Road.)
The city spent a lot of time recently objecting to the proposed Belvedere Terminals fuel farm, Jorczak said, adding that gas stations are “one step down from that.”
“With our growing population, we have the propensity for this kind of thing to happen where we could load up an intersection with four gas stations and it’s all permitted by our codes,” Jorczak said.
Board Chair Doug Thomas said he had a major concern about putting in a gas station so close to residential areas. He’d like to see the city increase regulations.
“I know I sure as heck wouldn’t want it in my backyard,” Thomas said. “... I would like to make it as controllable as could be.”
Other board members felt
that the zoning district didn’t need major changes at this time. Board member GG Galloway questioned how many properties zoned B-8 would actually be impacted, saying that the board could be setting itself up for a “monster of a meeting” for three or four locations.
“We’re trying to build a whole new zone master plan change on a pinhead of where these places could or could not go,” Galloway said. “And I tell you right now, I bet we have very few locations that they could go regardless how far you should make the setback.”
Planning Director Steven Spraker said existing gas station convenience stores can be grandfathered into existing requirements, while requiring future ones in properties located next to residential areas go through a special exception.
City Attorney Randy Hayes said staff can study the issue and bring recommendations to the board for further discussion. There’s a legal side to the issue that needs to be addressed, as well as providing factual basis in case an ordinance on new distance requirements is later challenged.
“We’re going to have to have a lot more discussion on this because this has bigger implications I think than most people realize,” Hayes said. Thomas wanted to call for a workshop, but Hayes there’s a long way to go before getting there.
“You don’t have the planning and the science yet to have a workshop or to have a detailed discussion at a public meeting here in terms of what options you might like and why,” Hayes said. “That’s what you need.”
BUSINESS OBSERVER
Ormond Brewing wins Ormond Burger Week 2025
Ormond Brewing Company sold 550 of its ‘M/C Burger’ during the competition, which raised $3,000 for Provision Packs.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Who has the best burger in town? Ormond Brewing Company does.
The local brewery was crowned the champions of Ormond Burger Week 2025 on Tuesday, May 13. The third annual competition was the biggest yet, with 20 restaurants taking part and over 7,000 burgers sold overall.
Ormond Brewing’s entry, the “M/C Burger” — a 6-ounce angus beef smash burger with fried Velveeta, Ormond Brewing Company stout onion marmalade, bacon jam, pepper jack cheese, Lettuce and house pickles — was the brainchild of the brewery’s
four chefs, with input from their Mug Club members.
“We just had a good time doing it,” Chef John Michael said. “We’ve got a great crew.” Ormond Brewing Company
owner Justin Robinson credited their win to Michael, and thanked the community for their support.
“John headed this whole
THIS YEAR’S WINNERS
First place: Ormond Brewing Company
Second place: Alexander’s
Third place: Pumphouse
BBQ
Fourth place: TIE —
Tango’s and Ormond Beach Sports Corner
Bar and Grill
Fifth place: Fletcher’s Irish Pub
Celebrate National Foster Care Month
Open Your Heart and Home
May is National Foster Care Month, making this the perfect opportunity to reflect on the vital role foster parents play in our community.
Most of us fondly remember childhood as a time of fun, learning, and growth. But hundreds of local young people have suffered abuse, abandonment, and neglect during this critically formative stage. These children and teens have entered the foster care system through no fault of their own, but because they have experienced trauma. They need caring foster parents now to love them, nurture them, and show them a more positive way of life.
Foster parents provide a loving, temporary refuge when youth need it most. They offer a safe place for the children to heal until they can safely reunite with their families – the goal whenever possible – or transition to another permanent living situation such as adoption. Foster parents can make a difference for a lifetime in a relatively short time. They are community heroes, but it would be a mistake to put them on a pedestal and think that you could never foster.
Despite the common myths about fostering – such as that you must be rich, married, or a homeowner – foster parenting has straightforward requirements: being a legal Florida resident who is at least 21 years of age, who has the heart and ability to care for children, who can pay your bills, and who has adequate room and beds in the home. Foster parents must also undergo a background check, complete a home study, and participate in helpful parenting training.
Please ask yourself if you feel called to foster. Then call 386-
238-4900 today to learn more, or visit CommunityPartnershipForChildren.org for frequently asked questions, an overview of the licensing process, and how to begin your fostering journey.
Community Partnership for Children is the nonprofit lead agency that cares for abused, neglected, and abandoned children in Volusia, Flagler, and Putnam Counties.
Learn more
Visit CommunityPartnershipForChildren.org today for more information on becoming a foster parent. You can foster a brighter future for youth in our community!
“We have a window of opportunity to have a positive impact on these children.”
thing on,” Robinson said.
With a tagline of “Meat the Need,” this year’s competition also benefitted a local charity: Provision Packs, an Ormond Beach nonprofit that supplies food to children and families in need on the weekends and during extended school breaks in Volusia and Flagler counties. Ormond Burger Week presented Provision Packs with a $3,000 check.
Ormond Brewing will also make a donation of its own — $550, a dollar for every burger they sold during the 10-day competition.
With 20 restaurants competing, the Ormond Burger Week committee, which is composed of members of Realty Pros Assured and Realty Pro Title, said it was a busy week.
Carly Krajewski, of Realty Pros Assured, one of the founders of Ormond Burger Week, said a lot of the restaurants who had not participated in the past benefitted from the competition’s publicity.
“All the restaurants have been so good,” she said. “They are so appreciative and it’s a long week. It’s hard for that week, because they are busy. That’s just burgers on top of their normal menu.”
The publicity also extended to social media.
“A lot of people took to
TRYING ALL 20 BURGERS
Four people managed to eat all 20 burgers during the competition, winning a $25 gift card.
Ormond Beach Erika Barger was one of them. They were all delicious, she said. How did she do it?
“I strategized,” she said.
“I knew I wanted to taste all of them and I strategized on how I was going to do it based on which restaurants were open on what days, and when they were closed — what was open for lunch, what was open for dinner.”
She enlisted the help of 16 different “burger buddies” to help her try all of the entries.
“When I got it in my head that I wanted to try all 20, I was going to make it happen one way or the other,” she said. “I even had one day where I had burgers for breakfast, lunch and dinner.” The fact that Provision Packs was benefitting from proceeds was a win-win situation, she added. She’s also proud of being the only woman to eat all 20.
“I’m looking forward to next year and seeing if they have any new contenders,” Barger said. “It was great to see Ormond Brewing win this one.” In addition to Barger, James Robbins, Mike Harding and Michael O’Neal also ate all 20 burgers.
social media and shared pictures and just their reviews on different restaurants,” committee member Skye Russell said. “I feel like that was very helpful.”
The competition, as well as the Bingo game on the voting card, also put some restaurants on the map for residents that otherwise wouldn’t have known about them, added committee member Yana Marchenko.
“I think that’s the main
purpose of Ormond Burger Week is to bring more business to the local restaurants,” she said.
Some of the newer restaurants were apprehensive about entering the competition, but after seeing the community engagement, they’ve already begun planning for next year’s competition, said committee member Kristen Robbins.
“I think something we can say is it’s community supporting community,” she said.
Ormond Brewing Chef John Michael and brewery owner Justin Robinson.
Tom, Ormond Brewing’s cat, lounges by the trophy.
Dr. Teresa Herbert, Chief Medical Officer, AdventHealth Flagler/St. Johns market, Dr. Jessica Marshall, General Surgery/Robotics, Dr. Steven Brown, Gynecology/Robotic Surgeon, Dr. Tony Highshaw, General Surgery/Robotics Second Row: Dr. Abubaker Ali, Advance GI Surgery/Robotics, Dr. Tanam Ahmed, Primary Care Physician, Dr. Terrence Regan, Urology, Dr. Stephen “Blue” Coltharp, Emergency Medicine, Dr. Eric Gershman, Oncology
ADVENTHEALTH
UNVEILS THIRD ROBOTIC SYSTEM
AdventHealth Palm Coast and AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway are expanding its surgical program with the addition of the da Vinci 5 robotic surgical system, the most advanced robotic surgery system available today.
The new technology, made possible by an ongoing $2.5 million fundraising campaign by the AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation, gives surgeons more precision and control during complex procedures.
“This technology doesn’t replace the surgeon, it sharpens their skills,” said Denyse Bales-Chubb, President and CEO for AdventHealth Palm Coast and Flagler/St. Johns market. “Think of it as putting the best tools in the best hands. That means smaller incisions, quicker recoveries, and less time in the hospital for our patients.”
The da Vinci 5 is the latest model in a line of roboticassisted surgical systems. It will support a wide range of surgeries, including cancer, urology and gynecology.
The da Vinci 5 robot joins the two da Vinci robotic machines in AdventHealth’s current fleet in Flagler County, including the da Vinci Xi that was added in 2014. For both hospitals, in the last year and a half, the teams have completed nearly 950 cases using robotic surgery.
BREEZE AIRWAYS ANNOUNCES NEW SERVICE FROM DAYTONA BEACH
Breeze Airways recently announced a new service from Daytona Beach to Akron-Canton, Ohio, with fares starting from $49 one-way.
The new route will operate twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays, starting Sept. 3, a press release stated. Breeze was recently named the Startup Airline of the Year by the Centre for Aviation, according to the press release. It was also recognized as a Four-Star Low-Cost Carrier at the 2025 Airline Passenger Experience Association Five-Star and Four-Star Airline Awards. Only 8% of airlines worldwide achieve this honor, the press release states.
HERB’N GREENS ADDS AEROPONIC TOWERS OPTION
After spending the past year growing lettuce and other produce in aeroponic towers in his backyard and selling it at farmers markets, Palm Coast’s Hayden Jaussi expanded his business, Herb’n Greens, to begin constructing aeroponic towers in other people’s backyards.
Hayden and his wife, Lauren, started with one goal: to grow high-quality, nutritious food while being mindful of the environment. Using aeroponic farming, they are able to grow crisp lettuce and other greens with 90% less water than traditional farming and without
soil, pesticides and waste that often comes with large-scale agriculture.
“At first, it was just about growing and sharing that produce. But along the way, something unexpected happened. People started asking how we did it,” Hayden Jaussi said. “Families, home cooks, and even restaurant owners weren’t just interested in buying fresh greens, they wanted to grow their own. Some had never gardened before, others didn’t think they had the space, but all of them were drawn to the idea of harvesting food right outside their door.”
The company can install small-scale aeroponic systems in backyards, patios, or balconies. There is no soil, no weeding.
Check out Herb’n Greens on Instagram and Facebook.
Send business press releases to brent@observerlocalnews. com.
A journey back home for general surgeon Dr. Jessica Marshall
Marshall was raised in Ormond Beach and now joins AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway as Flagler County’s only female general surgeon.
ADVENTHEALTH
PRESS RELEASE
For Dr. Jessica Marshall, returning to practice medicine in her hometown is a personal homecoming.
Born in Daytona Beach and raised in Ormond Beach, Marshall is a true local. A 2004 graduate of Father Lopez Catholic High School, her connection to the area runs deep.
Now, she brings her surgical expertise to AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway as Flagler County’s only female general surgeon.
“I’m a fifth-generation physician; my father was a surgeon, so medicine was in my blood,” Marshall said.
“Even as a child, I loved biology, but I didn’t decide to pursue medicine until high school. I knew the kind of hard work and dedication it would take, and I wasn’t sure I wanted that kind of life. But becoming a doctor is truly a calling and it’s something you feel pulled toward.”
Her father’s career as a general surgeon gave her an early glimpse into the field, and she found herself captivated.
“I loved everything about it. In surgery, you can change someone’s world overnight,” she said. “It’s also a team sport. Everyone works togeth-
er toward the same goal. You get to lead, inspire others, and yes, even listen to fun music while you work together in the operating room.”
Marshall received an undergraduate degree from the University of South Florida in Tampa and attended medical school at the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine at the Bradenton, Florida campus.
After years of education and training, Marshall is now back in the community that helped shape her.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to serve the community that helped raise me,” she said. “It’s funny; sometimes it feels like I never left. Though the area has grown, I still know every back road and where to get the best crab legs or chicken wings (Houligan’s, of course).”
Joining AdventHealth felt like a natural step for Marshall, who had seen the company’s growth in the area over the years.
“When an old friend reached out about this opportunity, it felt right,” said Marshall. “AdventHealth is doing incredible things, expanding facilities, bringing in talented physicians, and investing in technology. It’s an exciting time to be part of this medical
community.”
Marshall specializes in robotic, and minimally invasive surgery, offering innovative techniques for surgeries such as hernia repairs, breast surgeries, colon surgeries, and gallbladder surgeries. Her work brings challenges, but is also personally fulfilling.
“There’s nothing better than hearing a patient say their neighbor or favorite doctor recommended me or seeing someone I operated on thriving,” she said. “That’s what makes all the hard days worth it.”
Her roots in the community often intersect with her work.
“I’ll look at a patient’s chart and realize I know their parents or family,” she said. “Neighbors stop me to ask about the hospital or a new doctor, and it feels good to be a source of information and help.”
She also hopes her work inspires others to follow their dreams in health care.
“We need all kinds of people in health care, including secretaries, techs, phlebotomists, nurses, doctors, you name it. If you have the desire, you can make it happen,” said Marshall. “There’s nothing like the satisfaction of doing something that makes a real difference in people’s lives; it is unmatched.”
For Marshall, the path home has been both personal and professional.
“I love what I do and I love where I’m doing it,” she reflected. “I hope my daughter grows up to be proud of her mom and sees what’s possible when you follow your passion.”
Send business press releases to brent@observerlocalnews. com.
Dr. Jessica Marshall and her father. Courtesy photo
Lauren and Hayden Jaussi. Courtesy photo
REAL ESTATE
Top
sale: $3 million
Ahouse at 3771 North Ocean Shore Blvd., in Hammock Dunes Clusters, was the top real estate transaction for April 26- May 2 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The house sold on May 1, for $3,030,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a fireplace, a dunewalk, an elevator and 3,770 square feet.
ALEXIS MILLER
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Condos
A condo at 3600 South Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 513, sold on April 30, for $250,000. Built in 1984, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,209 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $315,000.
A condo at 1100 Cinnamon Beach Way, unit 1033, sold on April 30, for $460,000. Built in 2004, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,344 square feet. It sold in 2015 for $210,000.
A condo at 28 Porto Mar, Unit 603, sold on April 28, for $2,017,800. Built in 2007, the condo is a 4/4.5 and has 3,847 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $1,475,000.
A condo at 60 Surfview Drive, Unit 419, sold on April 28, for $622,000. Built in 2004, the condo is a 3/2.5 and has 1,640 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $360,000.
FLAGLER
BEACH
Fuquay
A house at 1944 South Central Ave., sold on April 28, for $705,000. Built in 1977, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a fireplace and 1,994 square feet. It sold in 2017 for $327,600.
Sugar Mill Plantation
A house at 6 Bulows Landing, sold on May 2, for $875,000. Built in 1995, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a fireplace and 4,146 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $525,000.
PALM COAST Aspire
A house at 28 Price Lane, Unit 32, sold on May 2, for $352,225. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,833 square feet.
A house at 17 Potomac Drive, Unit 30, sold on April 28, for $331,261. Built in 2024, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,833 square feet.
Broadwater home tops sales list at $1.1 million
Ahouse at 3 Broadriver Road in the Broadwater subdivision was the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormondby-the-Sea for the week of April 19-25. The house sold on April 21, for $1,100,000. Built in 1996, the house is a 4/4 and has a fireplace, a pool, a spa and 4,989 square feet. It last sold in 2007 for $1,075,000.
JARLEENE ALMENAS
MANAGING EDITOR
Condos
The condo a 1 Tomoka Oaks Blvd., Unit 117, sold on April 21, for $235,000. Built in 1980, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,184 square feet. It last sold in 2006 for $140,000.
The condo at 20 Tomoka Ave., Unit 1100, sold on April 21, for $240,000. Built in 1985, the condo is a 2/2 an has 1,250 square feet. It last sold in 1988 for $440,000.
The condo at 89 S. Atlantic Ave., Unit 1505, sold on April 21, for $260,000. Built in 1979, the condo is a 2/2 with two half baths and has 1,200 square feet. It last sold in 2011 for $152,000.
ORMOND BEACH
Archer’s Mill
Cypress Knoll
A house at 17 Edge Lane, sold on May 2, for $515,000. Built in 2000, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool and 2,203 square feet.
Grand Haven A house at 16 Native Oak Court, sold on May 2, for $1,250,000. Built in 2014, the house is a 3/3.5 and has a pool, a hot tub, an outdoor kitchen, a fireplace and 3,288 square feet. It sold in 2014 for $75,000.
Hidden Lakes A house at 38 New Leatherwood Drive, sold on May 2, for $1,000,000. Built in 2021, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a pool and 2,744 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $555,000.
Pine Grove
A house at 16 Porcupine Drive, sold on May 1, for $405,400. Built in 2024, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,508 square feet.
A house at 89 Palmwood Drive, sold on May 2, for $303,000. Built in 2009, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,236 square feet. It sold in 2009 for $157,900.
Seminole Woods
A house at 385 Underwood Trail, sold on April 29, for $340,000. Built in 2024, the house is a /2 and has 2,117 square feet.
Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report
house is a 3/2 and has 1,548 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $195,000.
Southern Pines
The house at 46 Chrysanthemum Drive sold on April 23, for $396,000. Built in 2010, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,476 square feet. It last sold in 2010 for $151,800.
Tomoka Oaks
The house at 41 Pine Valley Circle sold on April 21, for $410,000. Built in 1970, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,867 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $408,000.
Breakaway Trails
The house at 40 Black Hickory Way sold on April 23, for $470,500. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,063 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $358,500.
Hunter’s Ridge
The house at 7 Huntsman Look sold on April 22, for $617,500. Built in 1997, the house is a 4/3 and has a fireplace, an outdoor kitchen and 3,062 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $372,000.
The house at 117 Pergola Place sold on April 22, for $343,000. Built in 2016, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,537 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $213,900.
Northbrook
The house at 1 Overbrook Court sold on April 22, for $310,000. Built in 1979, the
The house at 3232 Arch Ave. sold on April 21, for $496,990. Built in 2024, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,361 square feet.
The house at 7 Pebble Beach Drive sold on April 21, for $394,000. Built in 1974, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,904 square feet. It last sold in 1984 for $79,900.
Trails South Forty
99 Oxbow Trail sold on April 23, for $275,000. Built in 1983, the townhome is a 3/2.5 and has a fireplace and 1,795 square feet. It last sold in 2013 for $131,500.
Winding Woods
The house at 2 Barbara Court sold on April 22, for $305,000. Built in 1982, the 2/2 house has a fireplace and 1,362 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $293,000.
Woodmere
The house at 922 Parkwood Drive sold on April 21, for $335,000. Built in 1964, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,304 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $305,000.
John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed.
PALM COAST
ORMOND BEACH
Palm Coast mayor supports beach sales tax, with 50-50 split
In response to Flagler County’s proposed beach management plan, Palm Coast Mayor Norris posted a press release on his Facebook page explaining the rationale behind his stance on the Flagler County beach management plan. The county has proposed a half-cent sales tax increase; half of the City of Palm Coast’s share would be used for the beach management plan, while the other half would go into the city’s general fund to be used at the City Council’s discretion.
“My position on the beach management plan has been clear and consistent since the Palm Coast City Council was first presented with the
finalized proposal by county administration on February 25, 2025,” Norris said. “Even in our initial meeting on February 10—when no formal plan had yet been presented—I stood firm on one principle: Palm Coast residents should not bear an unfair financial burden for a service that doesn’t directly benefit our inland city.”
While acknowledging the importance of a sound beach maintenance strategy for the county, the mayor expressed concerns over the proposed financial structure.
“I believe the barrier island communities should bear more of the cost than the currently proposed $160 annual fee. Under the cur-
rent plan, Palm Coast would become the largest financial contributor through a proposed ½-cent sales tax— despite not being a beach town,” he said.
Norris highlighted a longstanding imbalance in county resource allocation.
“Since the Tourism Development Council (TDC) was established in 2011 along with the ½-cent sales tax, Palm Coast has received only $1.2 million, despite having the largest number of hotels in the county. Much of the TDC’s revenue has gone toward administration and marketing, not infrastructure or direct city benefits.”
However, after receiving a detailed briefing on the
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Palm Coast City Council has become a three-ring circus
Dear Editor:
Like a circus parade with no route map, the Palm Coast City Council just keeps marching — loud, chaotic, and with no clue where it’s headed. Step right up, folks, to the greatest show on Earth — or at least the most bizarre one in Flagler County. Ring One: an ethics investigation swirling around the mayor. Ring Two: A lawsuit flying like a trapeze artist trying to unseat one, maybe two, appointed council members. And Ring Three? A tragically ignored act featuring crumbling infrastructure, vacant staff roles and a tax base that’s as unstable as a wobbly tightrope. Is anyone really surprised the last city manager candidate backed out? Palm Coast has flirted with greatness for years, but somehow it always manages to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. I’ve got questions about the appointment of Councilman Charles Gambaro and
YOUR TOWN
Turtle sculpture will replace stolen one on the Flagler County Turtle Trail
The Flagler County Cultural Council (FC3) has announced that “Hetty” will be the next turtle to be unveiled on the public art Turtle Trail. The public is invited to attend the unveiling in the private park at Waterfront
Mayor Mike Norris’ behavior. According to Article IV, Section 7(e)2 of the City Charter, the District 4 seat appointment could have, and frankly should have, waited until after the new council and mayor were sworn in. And someone, please, for the love of decorum, get the mayor an application to charm school. But while the spotlight stays on scandals and lawsuits, the day-to-day business of running a city is left to city staff and the interim city manager, and the folks juggling flaming batons just to keep the lights on. Tell me, why would any serious city manager want to start their tenure knee-deep in banana peels and confetti? Why would a business choose to expand here when the council chambers resemble a slapstick sketch? Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy a good circus as much as the next person. But the audience is losing patience.
RON LONG Flagler County
Park Drive and Colbert Lane in Palm Coast, on May 22 at 10 a.m. Hetty replaces Turtle No. 6, “Quilty,” which was stolen from her perch in the park. Hetty was inspired by Dutch artist, Johannes Vermeer, who
Mayor’s First Step Shelter comments did not represent City Commissioners
Dear Editor:
Facts: On April 14, as First Step Shelter board member, Ormond Beach Mayor Jason Leslie voted against the contract approved 4-2 for Executive Director Victoria Fahlberg. Under Fahlberg’s leadership, the shelter has exceeded all expectations in fulfilling its mission, with a 50% graduation rate to income and housing, and a 93% housing retention rate. The April 16 News-Journal reported the following Leslie comments: “Ormond Beach Mayor Jason Leslie warned that his city commissioners have expressed doubts about the shelter, and that voting on Fahlberg’s contract now could bring an end to the roughly $85,000 Ormond Beach contributes to the shelter each year.” He said commissioners are “unhappy with the results” of the shelter, and “they don’t see many homeless people in Ormond Beach going there.”
is known for the paintings, “Girl with a Pearl Earring” and “View of Delft,” which depicts that city in The Netherlands where he lived.
Bill and Pat Verhagen agreed to replace Quilty by sponsoring Hetty. Quilty has been missing since January, 2022 despite the rewards offered for her safe return.
The Verhagens own a collection of Delft pieces and Dutch artwork passed on from Bill’s immediate family which traces their Dutch heritage to the early 1700s. This collection was the inspiration for the replacement turtle. Artist
plan, the mayor adjusted his position based on projected returns for the city.
“Palm Coast is slated to receive approximately 50 percent of the estimated revenue from the plan— around $2.7 million annually. These funds could significantly support infrastructure improvements, including road projects, if managed effectively.”
The mayor also addressed concerns about the tax burden on residents. “Because groceries and necessities are exempt from sales tax, the proposed ½-cent increase would have minimal impact on working-class families. Ensuring that essential goods are untaxed makes this
option more equitable.”
Although Norris was willing to support the tax under these revised conditions, the final decision rests with the City Council.
“Ultimately, I’m just one vote. While I believe elected officials are responsible for making these tough decisions, the majority of the council opted to place the measure on a referendum— despite no legal obligation to do so under the Flagler County Board of Commissioners’ rules.”
The mayor emphasized his commitment to fairness and fiscal responsibility as the conversation around beach management and county funding continues.
Board members urged Leslie to look at the shelter as a countywide success, but Leslie still suggested tabling the contract vote until October.
Contrary to Mayor Leslie’s public testimony, there has been no City Commission discussion of the First Step Shelter since he took office, and no negative commissioner comments.
No city commissioner has ever “expressed doubts” about the shelter or ever threatened to pull the “roughly $85,000 Ormond Beach contributes” annually. No commissioner has ever said they were “unhappy with the results” of the shelter or the number of Ormond Beach homeless served there. Prior to these unsubstantiated comments at only his second meeting, Mayor Leslie never communicated any of his concerns to the Executive Director.
Opinion: Mayor Leslie’s public comments on the First Step Shelter did not represent Ormond Beach city commissioners as he claimed, and instead fabri-
Bettie Eubanks, a resident of Palm Coast for 20 years, was asked to create Hetty.
Ormond resident publishes book to help students apply for scholarships
Ormond Beach resident and attorney Erika Barger recently published her first book, “Scholarship Hacks: Insider Tips for Winning College Money,” a comprehensive guide for students and their families to help navigate scholarship applications.
cated commissioner positions.
Our city’s credibility and relationships in the community rely on truth and public trust. Mayor Leslie should apologize to the First Step Shelter Board, its executive director, and the Ormond Beach City Commission for his harmful misrepresentations. He should step aside from his appointed position on the First Step Shelter Board and allow the commission to appoint a new board representative.
JEFF BOYLE Ormond Beach
The Observer gave Mayor Jason Leslie a chance to respond: “Per usual, Mr. Boyle chooses to take his suppositions to the court of public opinion, rather than asking for the facts. He has had it out for me since announcing my candidacy and the attacks feel more like a deep bitterness. Moving forward we should be striving for the unity of our community, instead of thwarting me. The First Step Board
Barger, who self-published her book, has served as a scholarship chairperson and judge for numerous organizations for over a decade.
A high school valedictorian and graduate of Georgetown University and Florida State University College of Law, she received almost $250,000 in scholarships and financial aid.
“If my book can help just one student to win a lifechanging scholarship, making the difference between whether that student has the means to afford college or not, it will have been a worthwhile endeavor,” Barger said.
CORRECTION
A story published in the May 8 edition of the Observer on Ormond Beach's support of First Step Shelter was later updated to include that the whistleblower complaint filed by two former employees was found to be unsubstantiated by a previous investigation. The story was also corrected to report that the employees, whom the lawsuit states were directors, worked as a fundraiser and a housing coordinator, with no supervisory responsibilities.
thanked me this week for a nice letter of continued support to the program. Maybe you will sponsor a table in support to First Step at next year’s gala?”
Erika Barger. Courtesy photo
YOUR NEIGHBORS
Art by Sandcrabs
OMAM hosts annual Seabreeze student art show
JARLEENE ALMENAS
MANAGING EDITOR
Art by 109 Seabreeze High School
students is now gracing the gallery walls at the Ormond Memorial Art Museum.
The annual “Tradewinds” art show is showcasing over 130 student art pieces, including 2D and 3D art in various media. The show was originally founded in 1964 by late Seabreeze art teacher Nina Masters. While it was initially exhibited on
the school campus, it later became the “Tradewinds Art Festival” in the 1970s, becoming the first juried art show for students in Volusia County. OMAM has hosted the exhibition since 1996. This year, the opening
THIS YEAR’S WINNERS
3D ART
First place: Madison Heard, “Beastly Puzzle”
Second place: Kendell Ann Olsen, “Music Never Dies”
Third place: Chloe Sebastian, “Whalethy”
2D
First place: Caitlyn Cavalluzzo, “Up Close and Personal”
Second place: Ellie Pleier, “Assurance”
Third place: Kayla Ernest, “Self-Portrait + Surrealism”
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Kennedy Brackett, “Starry Knight”
Anasofia Sequeira, “Death of Nu Birth of Ra”
Sofia James, “In the Marketplace”
Megan Beck, “Browser History
Gianna Cicalese, “Seen vs. Unseen”
Syd Fleischer, “French Braids By Friendly Hands”
Peyton Lilly, “Sea of Thoughts”
Kaleigh Kearney, “Geometric Harmony Set”
Ethan Cretens, “Elequin”
Madison Heard, “Romantic Symphony”
Isabela Serano, “Shared Rhythm”
Addison Montalvo, “Addie”
Ava Nielson, “Medusa’s Problem at Hand
Eris Potts, “Isolated in The Internet”
Sydney Jasiecki, “Cobra-Platypus”
“Up Close and Personal” by Caitlyn Cavalluzo won first place for 2D. Pictured below is also Kaleigh Kearney’s “Geometric Harmony Set,” an honorable mention.
reception took place on Thursday, May 8, and a crowd of students, their families and community art lovers came out in support.
“I’m really grateful for the Seabreeze family for supporting the fine arts in this community,” said Christine Colby, Seabreeze
teacher and art department chair, at the opening reception. “I’m really grateful for each of my students who have created such amazing artwork this year, and I hope you also have enjoyed your experience.”
The “Tradewinds” art show will run through May 25.
Justin and Sammy Rose perform during the opening reception for the “Tradewinds” art show.
Seabreeze High School freshmen Roxi Autumn Slater and Kaloni Miranda Myers. Myer’s piece in the show (right sculpture) is titled “Zoctopus.”
Seabreeze sophomore Ethan Cretens won an honorable mention for his sculpture, “Elequin.”
Trey Robertson, guest relations and gift shop coordinator at OMAM; Christine Colby, Seabreeze teacher and art department chair; and Kristin Heron, senior curator of Exhibitions & Education at OMAM.
Above; Seabreeze senior Madison Heard poses next to her honorable mention, “Romantic Symphony.”
Seabreeze junior Syd Fleischer won an honorable mention for their piece, “French Braids by Friendly Hands.”
Kayla Earnest won third place in 2D art for “Self-Portrait + Surrealism.”
Seabreeze sophomore Liam Auchenbach holds his ceramic clay piece, “Abduction.”
Seabreeze High School freshman Chloe Sebastian won third place for her sculpture, “Whalethy.” Photos by Jarleene Almenas
Seabreeze art teacher Kasondra Price announces the honorable mentions
Tillandsia Garden Club holds ribbon-cutting for Tomoka State Park bench
personalized donor bench program.
and Flagler Counties.
“May this bench serve not only as a place to pause and enjoy the beauty and serenity of Tomoka State Park, but as a reminder of our shared responsibilities to care for this earth and nurture love among us,” Lennick said.
The ceremony was also attended by Sen. Tom Leek and his wife Michelle, Ormond Beach City Commissioner Lori Tolland and Garden Club members. Leek, who announced that the governor was set to sign a new law that would prevent state parks from being developed into hotels, pickleball courts and
golf courses, shared memories of spending time with his kids at the park.
“We will be able to continue to enjoy God’s nature here in Tomoka State Park for as long as we have Tomoka State Park,” Leek said.
Tolland said she hoped the bench dedication serves as an example to other garden clubs in the community, and that they participate in the donor bench program as well.
“I admire all of your outstanding work and your dedication to improving our community — for making this a better place, a more beautiful place and a place for all of us to enjoy in future generations,” she said.
What the Tillandsia Club has done is raise money for an enduring purpose, said Valerie Seinfeld, membership chair of the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs. She echoed Tolland’s wish that other Garden Clubs in the area follow in Tillandsia’s footsteps.
“I am so proud of the Tillandsia Garden Club for reaching out into their community,” Seinfeld said.
Also in attendance was Tomoka State Park Ranger Robert Jones, who said that
when the park started the botanical garden three years ago, many of the Garden Club members helped develop it. Their involvement goes beyond a monetary donation, he said.
“Your involvement has come in the form of time, and your heart, and your energy, and that is greatly appreciated within the park,” Jones said. “You guys hold a special place in our heart. We’re glad to go above and beyond to help you wherever we can.”
The Garden Club has made a difference in the park, said Gordon Whitley, president of the Friends of Tomoka Basin State Parks board. Several members of the Garden Club have become members of the Friends, he said
“This park bench will be a lasting symbol of their friendship, memories and provide a tranquil place in Tomoka park’s native garden for members to gather for a lifetime to come,” Whitley said. “... May the members of the Tillandsia Garden Club always live life in full bloom.”
To learn more about the donor bench program, visit fotbsp.com/park-benchdonation-program.
Delta Life Fitness holds fourth annual Sweat with a Vet
The event allowed people to take part in the Marine Corps Combat Fitness Test.
CONNOR MCCARTHY CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The fourth annual Sweat with a Vet was held on Saturday, May 10, at the Nova Community Center, giving community members a chance to exercise alongside the guidance of U.S. Marines.
The event, which featured the chance to take part in the Marine Corps Combat Fitness Test, was held by Delta Life Fitness, working alongside the Marines of RSS Daytona Beach. The fitness test was conducted with the Delayed Entry Program’s poolees.
“It’s one of my favorite ones to do,” said Emma Wise, studio manager of Delta Life Fitness. “It’s a great way to get the community involved with the military in a way they normally wouldn’t be. We typically do this for Memorial Day and it’s a good way to get an idea of what our service members do to keep in shape to fight for our country.” The event consisted of three activities: laps around the baseball field to warm up, then pairing with a veteran Marine to lift ammo boxes as weights, and a final exercise with crawling and carrying.
Logan Wilson
Skyler Sweatt carries Anna Mikulec as Gunnery Sgt. Steven Decker watches. Photos by Connor McCarthy
Athouriste Wiltch
Gordon Whitley, president of the Friends of Tomoka Basin State Parks; Ormond Beach City Commissioner Lori Tolland; Park Ranger Robert Jones; Valerie Seinfeld, membership chair of the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs; Tillandsia Garden Club President Jane Devine; Past President Jane Eddy; Rev. Roy Allison; Rabbi Rob Lennick; and Sen. Tom Leek. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
Guldan is building a career — now
Matanzas senior will graduate with 15 industry certifications and experience with a custom home builder.
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Emma Guldan needed special permission to join Matanzas High School’s Building Construction Technology program as a junior.
She said with help from the school counselors, she was allowed to skip the firstyear construction technology course and go right into Carpentry. Although she had always been in accelerated academic programs, she prefers to work with her hands. She grew up on a farm, so working with power tools are second nature to her, she said.
“I was able to sneak in to Carpentry 2,” said Guldan, now a senior who will be graduating in two weeks. “I kind of cheated the system, but then I started on projects. I’ve tried to get as much knowledge as I can in the short amount of time I’ve been in the program.”
Before the end of that first year, Guldan had already become a leader. She joined the Future Builders Association and gave the presentations for the Matanzas team competing in the Southeast Builders Conference Design Build Competition in Orlando.
Early this school year, building construction teacher Andy Douglas received a call from a custom home builder looking for an assistant construction superintendent. Douglas recommended Guldan.
After working on the job for about six months while going to school, she’s decided that’s the career path she wants to take.
“It taught me a lot,” she said. “I was able to work on a lot of different buildings. I met a lot of different contractors in the area. So now I’m well known in the construction industry, and it helps me a lot moving out of high school.”
When Guldan started with the company, she had just
CLASS NOTES
BUDDY TAYLOR
For
turned 17 and was tasked with directing experienced construction workers. As one of 13 females in the Matanzas construction program with over 150 males, she knew she had to prove herself.
“I’m not going to be incompetent and then tell you how to do your job. That’s just not OK,” she said. “It’s about working with them and not ordering them around. It took me a month or two to get comfortable, but if I ever had any questions, I would just come back to school with a picture on my phone and ask Mr. Douglas, ‘What is this? What does this do?’ He would help me figure out everything to the point that I got comfortable, and I could do it all by myself.”
FIFTEEN INDUSTRY CERTIFICATIONS
Guldan will graduate with 15 different industry certifications. She has her career mapped out. She plans to begin college at Daytona State, get her associate degree and then look into a bachelor’s program for construction management with a minor in architecture. Once she turns 18 in September, she wants to work days, getting as much experience that she can in different trades, while taking night classes.
“As Mr. Douglas taught me, you can’t be a good superintendent construction manager, if you don’t know what
has announced.
Seventh grade students James Webb and Alexander Mangal placed second at the Greater Jacksonville SeaPerch Regional Competition on April 12 at the Cecil Aquatics Center to earn their Team Swift Sharks a coveted spot in the international competition May 31 to June 1 at the University of Maryland. Luke Chrzanowski is the alternate.
SeaPerch is an underwater robotics program involving over 250,000 students in 35 countries and all 50 states,
goes into every single trade,” she said
After college she wants to earn her general contractor license. The youngest of five children, she plans to go into business with her siblings. She has a sister who is a surveyor and one who is in HVAC. Her brother is working to be an electrician.
“They have the un-fun trades covered,” she said. “Eventually, it’s an idea that we’ll all end up getting together under my license and I’ll have a multi-million dollar family business. It’s kind of the goal, but obviously it’s a long way away.”
She has come a long way already, Douglas said.
“It took probably about two quarters to pull her out of her shell, but once she came out of her shell, she became quite the leader over the past year and a half,” Douglas said. “I would say that she’s led about 90-95% of the projects that we’ve completed.”
PROGRAM SPOKESPERSON
Guldan was this year’s Flagler County School District nominee for career technical education for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. And despite having a speech impediment since she was young, Guldan has also become a public speaker.
“After the summer when we went to Orlando, I just took over as spokesperson,” she said. “I mean, there’s no reason to fight it. I met the last mayor along with the (Flagler Home Builders Association), and the City Council, and I was able to show them a presentation of what we were doing last year.”
She has also been an ambassador for the construction program at the middle schools’ career days. She wants to show girls that the male dominated industry can be an option for them.
“Of course I’ll go to the middle schools to recruit for the summer camp and recruit for the program to help Mr. Douglas out,” she said. “Especially because younger girls, they are not as confident, so it helps to see a woman there. And they can say, ‘Yeah, maybe I can actually do that.’”
according to SeaPerch.org.
According to a Flagler Schools press release, teams invited to the International SeaPerch Challenge are considered to be among the top 5% in the program worldwide.
BTMS SeaPerch students shared a community outreach project at the Annual WaterSafe Event on April 26 at the Belle Terre Swim and Racquet Club. The project studied how bathing suit colors and their visibility in pools vs. open water could factor into reducing drowning risk.
Mainland senior stays on his A game
Joseph Monroe is part of the first graduating class of the Mainland Collegiate Institute
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
When Mainland High School senior Joseph Monroe crosses the stage at the Ocean Center on May 30, he’ll be doing so for a second time in less than two weeks.
On Tuesday, May 13, Monroe graduated from Daytona State College with his associate degree, a milestone made possible by the Mainland Collegiate Institute program, of which Monroe is part of the first graduating class of seniors. The program gives students more dual enrollment, Advance Placement and AICE course opportunities, while offering students on-campus support and guidance.
“It put me on my A game the entire time,” said Monroe, who is in the top of his graduating class.
Senior year, he said, has been a rollercoaster. Initially, he planned to finish his high school years at Seabreeze, where he had attended for his junior year, but due to family circumstances, Monroe transferred back to Mainland.
Monroe could’ve obtained his high school diploma at the end of his junior year — but he wanted to continue his dual enrollment and graduate with his AA. He didn’t need any more credits, so he could’ve taken it easy and chosen to take electives in his senior year.
But that’s not the kind of student he is.
Monroe, who hopes to one day be an engineer, knew he needed to get used to challenging himself.
So he decided to take physics 1 and 2, in the same semester. One is an AICE course, the other an AP class.
Both taught by Mainland physics teacher Drew Hilburn.
“He’s a brilliant young man,” Hilburn said. “Really, top of his class in so many ways.”
There are different ways to
measure students, he added, and one of those ways is how they lean into the material and incorporate them into everything they’re learning. That’s where Monroe excels, Hilburn said.
“He is not a kind of student who sits there, listens to the lesson and then goes home and tries to work the problems,” Hilburn said. “Immediately after the lesson, he is processing ideas and he has questions, and these questions are really, very well thought out.”
Monroe’s main goal is understanding the material, rather than simply aiming for a good grade.
“He is very dedicated to being the best person he can be, and he has come to a belief that it is through education that he will improve himself, not just intellectually, but also in this kind of moral sense, too,” Hilburn said.
It’s thanks to teachers like Hilburn that Monroe said he has been able to do well academically. Going into graduation, Monroe is looking at a 4.6 weighted GPA.
“Everything about this school year has been rigorous,” Monroe said. “It’s going to be hard, but they’re not going to make it any more harder than it absolutely has to be. They’re going to be understanding and that’s part of the main reason why I’ve been able to perform at the level I’ve been able to perform, because I got great teachers who know what they’re doing — and that was at Seabreeze and it was most certainly here as well.” Monroe knows that Hilburn expects him to succeed. So, he works hard.
“I’m a firm believer that I ought to make good on the investments other people place into my life,” Monroe said.
In Hilburn’s 31 years of teaching, he’ seen a lot of great students. But what stands out about Monroe, he said, is his kindness in the way he interacts with others. It’s a form of leadership through soft skills: how you interact with others, the questions you ask, the facial expressions used, and the way in which you transition from one moment to the
next. They’re all leadership qualities, he said.
“And boy, does he have that in spades,” Hilburn said. “He has made both of my classes better classes.”
This year, Monroe applied to over 10 scholarships. And when he’s not studying or taking classes, Monroe works. This year, he’s been working at Floor and Decor in Daytona Beach.
What keeps him motivated?
Knowing that it’s OK to take a break here and there.
“It’s not the end of the world if I’m not on top of it,” he said. “You really just enjoy those smaller, quiet moments. Those are what really pushed me to keep on going.”
In addition to MCI, Monroe is also part of the National Honor Society and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Faith is an important part of Monroe’s life. Raised in a Christian household, Monroe said his parents have instilled values that he’s carried with him through high school, particular following his freshman and sophomore years.
“I hope I appear as a much better person today than back then,” Monroe said. “... Through prayer, through reading, through going to church services, through volunteering at my church, meeting people, making connections, I’ve grown a pretty strong relationship with God and I’ve just been able to serve people better.” Monroe will be headed to the University of Central Florida in the fall. But though he’s soon to be a Knight, he will always be a Buc.
Matanzas graduating senior Emma Guldan. Photo by Brent Woronoff
Buddy Taylor Middle School SeaPerch teams, Team Swift Sharks and Team Manta Rays, competed in the Greater Jacksonville SeaPerch Regional Competition on April 13 at the Cecil Aquatic Center.
Courtesy photos/Flagler Schools
Mainland High School senior Joseph Monroe. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
Best shot
FPC’s Colby Cronk repeats as state shot put champion and runner-up in discus as Bulldogs place 4th at state.
BRENT WORONOFF
One day before leaving for North Carolina State University, Flagler Palm Coast’s Colby Cronk became a two-time state track and field champ.
Cronk won the Class 4A boys state shot put championship for the second year in a row and also placed second in discus for the second straight year helping the FPC boys place fourth as a team. The FPC girls placed 10th, finishing in the top 10 for the first time in 23 years.
Several of Cronk’s teammates also won medals at state: Maya Tyson (third in girls shot put, eighth in discus), Karina Marcelus (fourth in both the girls 100 hurdles and the triple jump), Tanner Cauley Bennett (fourth in boys pole vault), Michael London (fifth in discus), Corinthians Watson (eighth in boys triple jump) and the girls 4x800 relay (seventh place).
Cronk, who will play football at N.C. State, wasn’t sure if he’d be able to participate in track and field this year. He underwent shoulder surgery in November and didn’t compete in his first meet until April 2.
On a rainy day at the state championships at the University of North Florida’s Hodges Field on Saturday, May 10, Cronk repeated as shot put champ by throwing 19 meters even (62 feet, 4 inches) on his fourth and
final attempt.
“I’m super happy I was able to get another championship,” said Cronk, who joked that he now has twosevenths of the state championships won by his sister, Micayla Cronk, as an FPC swimmer from 2017 to 2020.
“I’m also really happy I was able to compete this season, because there was a question if I would be able to come back. It was God’s plan, and I was able to come back,” he said.
Cronk scratched his on his third attempt on what would have been close to a state record at 19.9 meters, FPC coach David Halliday said. Cronk trailed St. Thomas Aquinas’ Christien Moreau as he entered the cage for the final time. His 19.0-meter throw was his third best in a competition, trailing his 19.22 meters at last year’s state championships — the 10th best throw in state history — and 19.03 a week ago at regionals.
“He just muscled it out there,” FPC throws coach Paul Spegele said of Cronk’s final throw. “It was all heart.”
Cronk placed second in discus
mer One session.
Tyson was competing at state for the fourth year in a row. Her bronze medal in shot put was her first.
“This year I came with the mentality that I experienced it all,” she said.
“I saw all outcomes of state during my four years, and I was ready and excited this time rather than nervous. I went out there with a good mindset and clear head and I performed the best I could. I’ll take it.”
Marcelus competed in three events and placed fourth in two of them.
She was 11th in long jump.
“She had a couple of fouls in long jump, so she almost came away with three medals,” Halliday said.
Pole vaulter Cauley-Bennett also took home a fourth-place medal at 4.20 meters (13 feet, 9.25 inches).
London, a sophomore, placed fifth in discus and finished 11th in javelin, setting personal records in both.
behind Bartram Trail’s Ethan Fox with a throw of 54.45 meters (178 feet, 7 inches), his best of the season. Cronk left for Raleigh, North Carolina, on Mother’s Day to begin his college career in N.C. State’s Sum-
The girls 4x800 relay team of Anna Grigoruk, Cassidy De Young, Arianna Slaughter and Jayden Wright ran 9.43.39. Slaughter placed ninth in the 800-meter run, just .22 of a second behind the eighth-place runner.
Lightning dictates schedule for 3A teams at state track championships
Matanzas freshman Peyton Cerasi places second in the 3,200. Mainland’s Antonio Wilson places 10th in discus; Amyah Watlington places 10th in 100 hurdles.
MICHELE MEYERS
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Lightning was a last minute addition to the Class 3A Track and Field State Championships event list on Friday, May 9, wreaking havoc with the Florida High School Athletic Association’s meet schedule. Fol-
lowing an over three hour weather delay, the FHSAA decided to combine the 3A with the Class 1A meet already scheduled for Saturday, May 10 at the University of North Florida’s Hodges Stadium in Jacksonville. Class 3A was scheduled ton resume at 7:30 a.m. Saturday.
Matanzas freshman Peyton Cerasi was in the first group on track and competed in the 3,200-meter run. She hung with the pack at the beginning of the race, moved to the number one spot then finished second in 10:56.56. Ciara McCloskey of Gulf Coast won title in 10:54.17. Cerasi was in her start lane for the 1,600 meters when a lightning delay was called at approximately 8:45
a.m. — the first one of the day. The meet reconvened more than three hours later when she ran the 1,600, placing 12th with a time of 5:15.25.
Cerasi said in middle school she was not interested in running long distance events. The 800-meter run appealed to her more.
“I did a lot of tempos and base training which has progressed me to (be competitive) in a 3,200,” she said. “It’s just been my event ever since. At first I was denying it, but now I am embracing it, saying, yes, I am doing so good at this event.”
Even though Cerasi was the sole Matanzas athlete to qualify for state, her teammates came out to support her on Friday and returned on Saturday.
“I told them not to worry about it, but they all came back anyway,” she said. “I was so touched.
“I’m just so grateful for this opportunity,” she said of her runner-up finish. “I give it all to the Lord above — it’s God’s plan. I’m just a freshman, so I know later I am going to get that first place. I’m really happy with how I did.”
Mainland completed the boys discus, high jump and 4x800 relay before lightning delayed the meet Friday afternoon. Seniors Khalil Wilmore and Dray Wood, sophomore Liam Ciferri and senior Kajuan Curry Jr. finished 17th in the relay with a time of 8:35.15 — off their Region 2-3A time of 8:05.04.
This was Curry’s second visit to the state championships. He said he felt more confident walking in to Hodges Stadium this year.
“It felt really good coming back in
to the stadium,” he said. “If we would have run the night we were scheduled to run, I think I would have run really well because everything felt good — my body, my breath. I was feeling 1:54. 1:53. That’s what I was feeling that night. When they canceled the meet and scheduled it for the next day, that’s when everything went downhill.”
Antonio Wilson Jr. threw a personal-record 45.16 meters in discus for the Bucs. He was bumped from 11th to 10th after New Smyrna Beach’s Brison Sullivan was disqualified in the discus and javelin where he placed eighth and first, respectively. Wilson said he will take the 10th place but it does not take away from the fact that he respects Sullivan as a talented athlete.
He credits his PR to coach Demond Noelien who helps the throwers with their technique. Wilson said he did not start throwing in the 40-plus meter range until Noelien began coaching this year. “I probably wouldn’t have gotten that throw if it weren’t for Coach D,” Wilson said. “I really appreciate him taking the time ... to help all the throwers get better. At the beginning of the season, I wasn’t even touching the 40s. As soon as he started, I never threw lower than a 40.” Javelin thrower Logan Smith was the sole competitor for Seabreeze. On Friday afternoon, he warmed up and threw twice before the meet was suspended due to lightning. The
Father Lopez’s Mackenzie Brewton wins Class 1A state shot put title
The Green Wave’s Adalae Fulton placed second in discus and Caroline Theriault tied for third in high jump.
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Father Lopez’s Mackenzie Brewton won the Class 1A state shot put championship and placed fifth in discus, and
two of her teammates also placed in the top three at the state meet on Saturday, May 10 at the University of North Florida’s Hodges Stadium. Adalae Fulton placed second in discus and Caroline Theriault tied for third in high jump.
The meet was delayed three hours because of lightning and then ran concurrently with the Class 3A championships.
Brewton broke her own school record in shot put with
a throw of 12.50 meters (41 feet, 0.25 inches). She won on her final throw.
“I just had to let it out,” said Brewton, who was the last thrower. “My other throws weren’t what I liked. I knew I had more.”
Fulton, who has been accepted to the U.S. Naval Academy, PR’d by more than two meters to place second in discus with a toss of 38.84 meters (127 feet, 5 inches). Brewton’s discus throw was 35.0 meters (114 feet, 10 inch-
es).
Theriault jumped 1.52 meters (4 feet, 11.75 inches) on her first attempt. She also competed in the 100 hurdles, finishing 10th, one spot behind teammate Lauren Lancing.
“It was kind of hectic,” Theriault said. “The high jump was the first event after the three-hour delay. Then I had to run the hurdles. I think all my hard work and all the help from my coach paid off. I want to thank my parents for
supporting me and I want to thank God. I did not expect this to happen.”
The Green Wave had three other athletes competing at state: Mia Bruno-Lodwig was 12th in shot put; Lancing was 13th in 400 hurdles in addition to her ninth place in 100 hurdles; Caroline Curtis was 16th in th 400 meters; and Ryan Herdel was 14th in boys 200 meters. Send sports scores to brent@ observerlocalnews.com.
Adelae Fulton (left) and Mackenzie Brewton placed second in discus and first in shot put, respectively. Photo by Michele Meyers
Matanzas freshman Peyton Cerasi stays in the pack at the start of the 3,200-meter run. Cerasi finished second.
Colby Cronk was No. 1 in shot put at the Class 4A state track and field championships. The senior won shot put and placed second in discus for the second straight year. Photo by Brent Woronoff
Mainland senior Antonio Wilson places fourth at the Region 2-3A track meet with a 44.92 meter throw which was enough to qualify him to compete at the Class 3A state championships, where he placed 10th. Photos by Michele Meyers
Leah Stevens’ walk-off double propels Matanzas softball to region final
Five days after throwing a no-hitter, Stevens struck out 19 and hit a home run.
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Leah Stevens outdid herself again.
Five days after she threw a no-hitter against Ponte Vedra, the senior hit a walk-off double in the eighth inning to lift Matanzas to a 2-1 victory over Middleburg in a Region 1-5A softball semifinals on Tuesday, May 13, at the Pirates’ field.
Thanks to Stevens’ heroics in the pitching circle and at the plate, the Pirates are headed to the regional finals for the first time in school history.
“She just makes things happen. She just has the will to win,” Matanzas softball coach Sabrina Manhart said. “She’ll win it pitching or she’ll win it at the plate. She’s a special player.” She did both against the Broncos.
She hit a line-drive home run over the center field fence in the first inning to give Matanzas (23-1) a 1-0 lead.
After the Broncos (19-9) tied it with an unearned run in the fourth, Stevens took matters into her own hands in the bottom of the eighth. She drove Lily Bennett’s pitch to right center field to score McKenzie Manhart — the extra-inning ghost runner — from second base.
“I always go for the big goal,” Stevens said.
The Pirates will travel to Niceville on Thursday, May 15, for a chance to advance to the state final four.
Stevens is batting .517 but she’s only had 29 at-bats this season. She’s made the most
of her opportunities, driving in 12 runs. After she connected in the eighth, she pointed at the ball.
“I knew it was deep enough,” she said. “I don’t think I’m a very sophisticated hitter. If it’s in the zone, I put the barrel to the ball.”
She was stellar in the pitching circle again, allowing only two hits and no walks in eight innings and striking out 19 of the 26 batters she faced.
“I was super loose,” Stevens said. “I felt I was really in rhythm tonight.”
“She wanted to continue playing this season,” Manhart said. “She’s not done.”
STEVENS THROWS NOHITTER VS. PONTE VEDRA
Leah Stevens felt like she couldn’t afford to make a mistake. So she didn’t.
Stevens pitched a completegame no-hitter, striking out 17 batters including 10 in a row from the third through sixth innings as Matanzas defeated Ponte Vedra 1-0 in a Region 1-5A quarterfinal Thursday, May 8, at the Pirates’ field.
“At this point in the season, little mistakes can determine the outcome of the game,” Stevens said.
Matanzas sophomore Ava Henige smacked a two-out double to center field to score Juliet Fogel in the fourth inning for the only run of the game. That was all Stevens needed as the Pirates (22-1) advanced to the regional semifinals for the first time since 2021.
Matanzas will host Middleburg (19-8) at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 13. Middleburg advanced with a 5-1 win over Milton. With a win over the Middleburg, the Pirates would advance to the regional finals for the first time in school history. Stevens is looking forward to facing the Broncos.
“I know some of their play-
ers from travel ball,” she said. “They have a lot of good players.”
A no-hitter for Stevens is almost not even noteworthy anymore. This was the senior’s third no-hitter of the season. She also pitched six innings of a no-hit ball against Atlantic Coast when she left the game after 5 innings with a 3-0 lead and returned in the seventh to secure the 3-1 win. Stevens has pitched seven
no-hitters, including three perfect games, during her three seasons. With the win, she improved to 16-0 this season and lowered her earned run average to 0.37. She has allowed five earned runs and has struck out 221 batters in 94.2 innings.
Stevens struck out every batter in the Ponte Vedra lineup at least once. She struck out six batters twice and one batter three times. She walked
one batter early ending her chances for her second perfect game this season. Only three of the 21 batters she faced put the ball in play, and her fielders got the out each time.
Matanzas head coach Sabrina Manhart said Stevens is harder to hit against in the later innings.
“As the outs start to get limited, she zones in like no other player,” Manhart said.
Stevens said she felt like
she did a good job keeping the Sharks batters off-balanced.
“As they see me (in subsequent at bats), they have more information,” Stevens said.
“But I have multiple tools for that reason. I know I can make my spin work in different locations. I can get a strike on a curve, throw a different pitch and then maybe throw the curve again but move it farther out. People are going to eventually hit you, so you have to keep mixing it up.”
The Pirates had defeated Ponte Vedra (14-11) a week earlier in the district championship game, 12-1 in five innings.
This game was different. Ponte Vedra pitcher Taylor Scribner gave up seven hits and walked six but got help from her fielders to keep the Sharks in the game. Catcher Emma Shin threw out two runners attempting to steal. Another Pirates base runner got caught in a rundown. Matanzas left nine runners on base including runners on second and third in the fifth and sixth innings.
“We were trying to run our normal aggressive base-running game,” Manhart said. “But we were running into outs.”
Henige, the Pirates’ designated player, drove in Juliet Fogel, who had hit a bloop single and was sacrificed to second by her sister, Ruby Fogel.
“Ava hit the heck out of the ball,” Manhart said. “She said, ‘Two outs, so what?’ She gets better every inning she plays.”
The 1-0 victory may not look impressive from an offensive perspective, but with Stevens on the mound the Pirates may not need much more than that.
“Winning by one run is as good as winning by the run rule,” Stevens said.
Matanzas senior Leah Stevens pitched a no-hitter in the Pirates’ 1-0 win over Ponte Vedra in a regional quarterfinal playoff game on May 8. Photos by Brent Woronoff
