The city of Ormond Beach will be replacing missing, damaged or sick trees in its medians, and adding native plants.
The Ormond Beach City Commission unanimously approved a $221,000 work authorization to A.M. Weigel Construction, Inc., at its meeting on Tuesday, May 20. According to a city staff report, the city will be replacing back the existing drought tolerant plants in the medians and enhancing it with 50% Florida native plant materials, such as Dwarf Yaupon Holly, Coontie, Blue Eyed Grass and Sea Purslane.
The impacted locations include medians in the downtown (from U.S. 1 to A1A), West Granada Boulevard from Orchard Street to Rima Ridge Road, North Nova Road and North U.S. 1.
While the city plans to remove all plant material to resolve the buildup of soil and overflowing mulch, the existing Medjool palms will remain.
The city staff report states that shrubs and ground cover plants will be taken out to allow the excess soil to be removed, and then pant materials will be placed back.
The city is paying for this project using its tree fund and Community Redevelopment Agency Tax Increment Financing dollars.
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The city lacks readyto-go sites and only spends 1% of its budget on job growth.
SIERRA WILLIAMS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
A major obstacle in Palm Coast’s economic development plans is a lack of padready building sites, according to Palm Coast Economic Development Manager Craig McKinney.
“The name of the game is sites and buildings,” he said. “We’re in a hot bed of activity, but we don’t have the inventory.”
In a presentation to the Palm Coast City Council on May 27, McKinney said the city has had 15 leads since Jan. 1, for businesses looking to move to the city. The average ask for a ready-to-go site is 145,000 square feet. Each lead would have created an average of 160 jobs, he said.
The BJ’s Wholesale Club on State Road 100 is around 150,000 square feet in size, Chief of Staff Jason DeLorenzo said, as a comparison. Palm Coast’s largest site that is ready-to-go, McKinney said, is just 11,000 square feet.
The City Council has been looking for ways to incentivise business to come to Palm Coast for years. But companies are really looking for product availability and getting to market quickly, McKinney said.
“More important than the incentives … is that we need product to incentivize,” McKinney told the council.
A tract of 103 acres on the northwest end of Palm Coast may provide a solution to the lack of the city’s inventory, but it would cost Palm Coast some up-front capital invest-
ment. Tract 17 is city-owned land located on Highway U.S. 1 near Peavy Grade. It was originally purchased from the Palm Coast Park DRI to build a park on in 2021. In 2024, the council amended the Palm Coast Park DRI to allow industrial uses on Tract 17.
Being located near a water and wastewater facility and across from an Florida Power & Light substation makes the site ideal for businesses, McKinney said. But because the land was purchased with the intention of building a park, the city does not have the building entitlements to build on it.
Palm Coast would need to purchase the entitlements from Palm Coast Park DRI, which would cost up to $4 million. If the city gets those entitlements, it would then cost Palm Coast another $6 million to $16 million in sitework to prepare the tract, depending on how many buildings the city wanted to prep the site for.
“We have a kind of fork in the road,” DeLorenzo said. Purchasing the entitlements would be expensive, he said, but it would also remove barriers to making the city more successful in drawing interest.
The council agreed that Tract 17 was an ideal solution.
“I think the priority, for me, would be to develop this out,” council member Charles Gambaro said.
Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri asked if there was merit in getting the entitlements and then selling the land without sitework. There is, McKinney said, but that would work best if the land were marketed for a longer time period, around nine months.
DeLorenzo instead sug -
gested the council send out a request for proposal to see what the interest would be.
“Let’s see how many bites we get,” DeLorenzo said. “Let’s understand where we are. Are we even marketable?”
Alongside the RFP for Tract 17 and as staff begins negotiations into the entitlements, the council is also looking to increase the funding available for economic development incentive programs.
McKinney said Florida is great for manufacturing investment. The more the city can do in investing in quality sites and buildings, marketing and workforce development, Palm Coast will be setting itself up for success.
“I can tell you if we don’t invest in economic development, we are going to fall behind,” McKinney said. “If we decide to invest in economic development, we can look to be an overnight success in about 10 years.”
Palm Coast’s annual budget for economic development is $647,000, 1% of the city’s general fund. Most mid-size cities invest between 2-4% in economic development, McKinney said.
Pontieri said she’d also like to review the budget.
“If we’re going to make a bold statement towards actually doing something about economic development, it’s my opinion that we need to increase this 1% to 3% and get a little aggressive on incentives,” she said.
Council member Ty Miller pointed out that the current budget of the economic development is the highest the city’s ever dedicated to economic development, but it’s still below the average.
“We’ve been talking about this for, like, eight years now,” Miller said. “Let’s fix it.”
Should the building permanently bear Ike Leary’s name? He has run Granada Pier Bait and Tackle since 1999.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Once the new bait shop at Cassen Park is complete, it will carry the name of its longtime operator, Ike Leary.
Ormond Beach city staff provided the City Commission at its meeting on Tuesday, May 20, with an update on the Granada Pier Bait and Tackle building, which is part of the $2.5 million Cassen Park redesign project. Initially, staff proposed generic signage reading “Ormond Bait Shop,” but Commissioner Travis Sargent disliked the idea.
“Ike Leary is one of our [Goodwill] Ambassadors,” Sargent said. “He fills up the soap dishes in the bathrooms. He fills up the toilet paper when it’s needed.”
At the commission’s meeting on April 15, Sargent had suggested highlighting Leary’s name on the side of the building — that the sign should read “Ike’s Granada Pier Bait and Tackle.” Commissioner Lori Tolland liked the idea, but said she was hesitant.
“If we could find a way where his name could be prominent, but maybe not permanent on a building, I think that might be a better way to go,” she said at that meeting. “But I’m not going to be an obstructionist. I’m just presenting another alternative.”
Sargent responded that the sign wouldn’t be permanent, but that while Leary runs the bait shop, he should be recognized.
After getting clarification that Sargent sought lettering on the side of the building, City Manager Joyce Shanahan said staff would prepare a plan.
At the May 20 meeting, Assistant City Manager Shawn Finley said they opted for a generic sign for consistency, as concession operators in other city facilities — such as Andy Romano Beachfront Park, Ormond Beach Sports Complex, Nova Community Center and the Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center — largely do not have their signs on the building.
Commissioner Harold Briley suggested the city not use channelized letters for a generic sign, and instead highlight Leary’s shop with something like a backlit sign that can be easily replaced if needed in the future.
Tolland said she liked Briley’s idea.
Sargent expressed frustration because he felt a consensus was reached at the April 15 meeting, but Tolland, Mayor Jason Leslie and Shanahan disagreed.
“I don’t think that the minutes reflect that there was a consensus,” Shanahan said. Joining the discourse, City Attorney Randy Hayes said that the city’s Site Plan Review Committee met prior to the commission’s April 15 discussion too.
“I don’t think it was necessarily ignoring the desire of the commission, as much as the fact that the SPRC probably met well before this commission had discussed it and staff, I don’t believe, had a clear consensus within themselves in terms of what the lettering should be,” Hayes said. Staff, he added, has clear direction now. As for the permanence of the sign, Leary, who has operated the bait shop since 1999, also gave the city clear direction.
“I’ve got a son that when I retire is going to jump right in there,” Leary said. “OK? As far as I’m concerned, it will always be Ike’s Granada Pier Bait and Tackle, and that’s how I’d like to leave it.” Email jarleene@observer localnews.com.
Ike Leary currently operates the Granada Pier Bait and Tackle inside Cassen Park. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
Poppy moments
during his address at the City of Ormond Beach’s annual Memorial Day Remembrance Service on Monday, May 26. Held annually to pay tribute to fallen service members, the event featured music by the Daytona Beach Concert Band, a salute to veterans of all branches and a wreath ceremony.
JARLEENE
ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
In Flanders Fields the poppies grow, and for U.S. Air Force veteran Capt. Andrew Hoffman, the sight of the red flower always calls to mind thoughts of remembrance and sacrifice.
Hoffman referenced the famous military poem by John D. McCrae
Hoffman, of Ormond Beach, said the poem has stuck with him since his first grade teacher read it to his class. He calls instances of saluting the fallen his “poppy moments.”
“Each time I saw the poppy, my heart saluted and I remembered,” he said.
Originally of Wethersfield, Connecticut, Hoffman enlisted in the Air Force in 1970. He served during the Vietnam War, as well as held
overseas assignments including during Desert Shield, Desert Storm and post-9/11. He retired from the Air Force Reserves in 2002 after 32 years of service.
During his address, Hoffman spoke about a time in the early 1980s when his unit received a call asking for help to repatriate a soldier’s remains — which would require them to divert an extra 800 miles, adding four hours to their day as they traveled to Aviano, Italy.
“Without hesitation, we all had our poppy moment and agreed to divert to Aviano,” Hoffman recalled. “After tying down the pallet ... we returned to the peaceful sky, much more somber in our thoughts than before. Before takeoff, someone had tucked a poppy into the tie-down strap. As we passed the coffin through the flight, this poppy reminded us of our continued commitment to the peace effort.”
When they arrived at their destination, there was little time, but Hoffman said they saluted the
fallen service member and wished him “Godspeed,” — another poppy moment.
U.S. Marine Corps veteran Col. R. Bancroft McKittrick delivered the opening remarks during the event, saying it is important to honor the men and women in Ormond Beach and surrounding communities who served in the military.
“Today, we remember the fallen and the liberties and freedoms that we enjoyed thanks to the sacrifices of so many generations of men and women made on on our behalf,” McKittrick said.
The debt of someone’s life can’t be repaid, Hoffman said. But they can be remembered.
“As you continue to celebrate Memorial Day today and every day going forward, I ask you to stop, take a long look at the American flag waving above you, and pause to reflect on this: It’s not the wind that makes the flag fly,” Hoffman said. “It’s the final breaths of every soldier, sailor and airman who passed away while defending you.”
“As you continue to celebrate Memorial Day today and every day going forward, I ask you to stop, take a long look at the American flag waving above you, and pause to reflect on this: It’s not the wind that makes the flag fly. It’s the final breaths of every soldier, sailor and airman who passed away while defending you.”
CAPT. ANDREW HOFFMAN, Air Force veteran
The City of Ormond Beach’s annual Memorial Day Remembrance Service featured a speech by U.S. Air Force veteran Capt. Andrew Hoffman.
Air Force veteran Terry Mone stands for recognition during the Salute to Veterans.
Susan Demorsky, regent of the Capt. James Ormond Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, carries the purple heart wreath.
U.S. Air Force veteran Capt. Andrew Hoffman performs the tolling of the eight bells. Photos by Jarleene Almenas
Troop 1 Scouts of Daytona Beach, the city’s first all-girl troop.
Chaplain Bryant Thorpe delivers the invocation during the Ormond Beach Memorial Day Remembrance Service.
City Commissioner Harold Briley lays a flower down in honor of fallen service members.
Ormond Beach Public Information Officer Pauline Dulang sings the national anthem.
‘Meaningful sacrifices’: DeSantis voices support for police at annual memorial
and Flagler Counties Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony honored fallen officers.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis touted the state’s support of law enforcement and recently signed legislation during a surprise appearance at the 2025 Volusia and Flagler Counties Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony, held the morning of Thursday, May 22,
at Daytona Memorial Park.
“Now, if you’re not wearing a uniform, most people just flee from danger and protect themselves,” DeSantis said. “But the decision that law enforcement personnel have to make has already been made for them once they put on the badge — they are going into the trouble. They’re going to put their life on the line to protect innocent people in our society, if it comes to that.”
DeSantis spoke about $1,000 bonuses granted to sworn law enforcement officers during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as a $5,000 bonus for new recruits. He announced he had signed HB 279, which increases penalties for swatting, the term used when people make false 911 reports that result in a deployment of significant law enforcement resources.
The governor also declared he would sign HB 113 into law, which he did later that day; this bill increases penalties for fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer who has initiated a traffic stop.
“To the families here who lost loved ones, those sacrifices that your husband, your
father, your brother made — those sacrifices were meaningful sacrifices,” DeSantis said. “Those sacrifices make a difference for this state and this community, and if we didn’t have people that were willing to sacrifice themselves for the benefit of others, we would have no chance of being a strong, free and prosperous state.”
Held annually to honor fallen officers in both counties, the memorial ceremony featured a motorcade, a roll call of officers who have died in the line of duty, the placement of a ceremonial wreath and a traditional 21 gun salute.
This year’s keynote speaker was Seventh Judicial Circuit State Attorney RJ Larizza, who said that, for the families in attendance, the loss of their loved one is a memory they carry with them for the rest of their lives.
“My sincere and genuine hope and prayer is that all of us here today can share with them, and to remember, and feel the suffering and the pain along with them,” Larizza said. “Maybe, just maybe, we can carry that burden with them for a little while.”
The ceremony honored honored 37 local officers and two K-9s who have died since 1895, including Ormond Beach Police Officer Robert Grim,
who died in 2004; and Cpl. Michael Bakaysa, who died in 2023. The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office honored five of its fallen officers: Sheriff Perry Hall and Deputy Sheriff George Durrance, both who died in 1927; Deputy Sheriff Charles T. Sease, who died in 2003; Sgt. Francesco Luigi Celico, who died in 2011; and Deputy First Class Paul Luciano, who died in 2021. Larizza said he’s gotten to know some of the families, such as that of the late Daytona Beach Police Officer Sam
Ethredge, who died in 1980. His family wore shirts with his name as they sat in the front row of the ceremony. Larizza also recognized the family of the late DBPD Officer Jason Raynor, who was killed in 2021.
“That’s why we work with Governor DeSantis and all of our legislators to make sure that you and your families are safe,” Larizza said. “We’re not social workers. We’re prosecutors and law enforcement, and our job is to protect you.”
The Volusia
Flagler County Master Deputy Sheriff William Nunziato (right) takes part in the motorcade.
Ormond Beach Police Capt. DW Smith (right) stands alongside other officers.
Volusia County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Peter Carelli salutes.
Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Deputies Amanda Priemer and Richard Stanford salute.
Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputies stand at attention.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks. Photos by Jarleene Almenas
RJ Larizza, state attorney for the Seventh Judicial Circuit, delivers the keynote speech.
A Volusia County Sheriff’s Office Deputy plays taps.
Volusia County Sheriff’s Office deputies salute.
The Coastal Florida Police and Fire Pipes and Drums play “Amazing Grace”
The Daytona Beach Police Department Honor Guard retires the colors.
The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office performs the 21 Gun Salute. Photos by Jarleene Almenas
Volusia County Baptist Church Pastor Mark Siers delivers the invocation for the Memorial Ceremony
Ormond Beach Police Officer Stephen Brugone
BIZ BUZZ
Sea Dreams by Sara celebrates first anniversary
Flagler Beach resident Sara Meinking celebrated the first anniversary of her art gift shop in Ormond Beach on Saturday, May 17.
Located at 398 S. Atlantic
Ave., Sea Dreams by Sara is Meinking’s first retail store. She sells coastal home decor, jewelry, gifts and memorabilia, as well as art created by local artists. Sea Dreams by Sara also offers arts and crafts classes.
To celebrate her first year in business, Meinking hosted a Customer and Community Appreciation Day with live music, food and beverages, giveaways, and artist meet and greets.
Meinking thanked event attendees in a video posted to her business’ Facebook page, remarking on the support from the Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce, customers, resident artists and area networking groups.
“It’s humbling,” she said. “It just is an indicator that I’m doing the right thing and I’m where I’m supposed to be.”
COPS CORNER
MAY 17
DIRTY TOWELS
3 p.m. — 500 block of West Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach
Vandalism A local car wash manager contacted police to report that one of their customers had defecated on the property. According to an incident report, the manager showed
BRIEFS
Bicyclist
hit by car in a Palm
Coast crosswalk
A bicyclist was in critical condition after getting hit by a Toyota Prius driven by 94-year-old Bunnell man, according to a Florida Highway Patrol press release.
The crash occurred at 4:50 p.m. Tuesday, May 27 at the intersection of Whiteview Parkway and Ravenwood Drive in Palm Coast.
The Prius turned left onto Ravenwood Drive southbound from Whiteview Parkway westbound. The bicyclist was traveling east in the crosswalk at the time of the collision.
The bicyclist was being treated at an area hospital as of Tuesday evening. The crash is under investigation, the FHP reported.
Halifax Health Hospice, Team RWB, honored by military chapter
The Halifax Area Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America held its fourth annual Outstanding Support
the reporting officer a video showing the customer, an 80-year-old Ormond Beach man, defecating next to his car while in the selfvacuuming area. The officer noted that the man appeared to then use the car wash’s detailing towels to clean up the feces, as well as himself. He threw them into the dirty towel recycle without informing staff. The towels were destroyed.
to Veterans award luncheon at the Halifax River Yacht Club on Thursday, May 22. This year’s awards were presented to Halifax Health Hospice and Team Red, White and Blue Daytona Chapter.
Halifax Health Hospice provides job opportunities for veterans, and has a Veteran Advisory Committee, which meets monthly with the chapter’s Hospice Veteran Committee. Halifax Health Hospice also organizes a campaign to collect and deliver care packages to active-duty military personnel and veteran and hosts commemorative ceremonies.
Team RWB, a nonprofit, was founded by veterans and hosts events for veterans including runs, walks, rucks, dance, pickleball, yoga, Pilates, bike rides, book club, kayaking, CrossFit, coffee socials and meals. Team RWB Eagles shop for veterans in the Emory Bennet Veterans Nursing Home, host a Christmas party and sponsors veterans in Veterans Court.
Volusia Values Veterans Program to support vets
The Volusia County Council has unanimously approved a new program designed to
Coast
Disorderly intoxication
Deputies arrested a 47-yearold Palm Coast man who, while heavily intoxicated, began “aggressively” tugging on a restaurant’s door after he was denied a cigarette by employees.
When the man tried to get access into the inside of a cigarette butt receptacle, and he couldn’t figure out how to open it, he threw it to the ground, where it came apart and dispersed cigarette butts all over the ground. The man was taken to jail.
“transform the county into Florida’s premier veteranfriendly community.”
The Volusia Values Veterans Program will support the 50,000 veterans in Volusia County through a coordinated framework of services, recognition, and opportunities, a county press release said. The initiative includes targeted efforts to “address veteran homelessness, mental health, and access to medical care,” among other benefits.
Register for Flagler Sheriff’s PAL summer youth programs
The Flagler Sheriff’s Police Athletic League has opened registration for its 2025 summer youth programs.
This summer’s Flagler Sheriff’s PAL schedule includes a variety of activities including boxing, soccer, and volleyball designed to encourage teamwork and physical activity, a FCSO press release said. In addition, the Flagler Sheriff’s PAL and the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches will host two separate summer camps.
Highlights of this summer’s youth programs include: PAL Mobile Events – Pop-
MAY 18
NEIGHBOR V. NEIGHBOR
3:18 p.m. — First block of Byron Ellinor Drive, Ormond Beach
Suspicious incident Police responded to a local neighborhood after a 44-yearold Ormond Beach man’s daughter found their Amazon package ripped open in their yard.
The package had been delivered to his neighbor’s house, with whom the man has had ongoing civil issues, according to an incident report. Police attempted to
Up Parties (From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hidden Trails Park on June 4 and July 30 and Espanola Park on July 16): Youth of all ages can enjoy lunch and take part in fun games and activities with their favorite deputies.
The Flagler Sheriff’s PAL Crime Scene Investigation Summer Camp (July 7-10): A hands-on educational experience where youth, ages 10 to 13, will learn about crime scene processing, collecting evidence, and investigative techniques.
The Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches Summer Camp (June 21-28): A free, weeklong summer camp for youth, ages 10-15, that will offer campers fun outdoor adventures such as biking, archery, canoeing, fishing, swimming, and s’mores by the campfire.
The FCSO has seven School Resource Deputies scheduled to attend. A separate registration link for this program is available on the Flagler Sheriff’s PAL website. Registration is now open for all programs. Early sign-up is encouraged as space is limited. For more information or to register, visit https:// www.flaglersheriffspal.com or contact the Flagler Sheriff’s PAL office at (386) 586-2655.
speak with the neighbor, a 72-year-old woman, but were unable to make contact.
The man told police the woman yells and says “profane things” to his daughters. Police reported that there has been conflict between the two parties regarding newspapers on the man’s lawn, and debris from the neighbor’s yard.
The man wished to press charges for the opened package.
MAY 21 LAW-ABIDING FLEEING 4:05 a.m — 2000 block of
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Buddy Taylor principal informs families about student’s death
A Buddy Taylor Middle School student died on Wednesday, May 21, according to a message Principal Cara Cronk sent out to families on May 22.
“It is with profound sadness that I must share the tragic news that one of our students passed away yesterday. Our thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences are with the family and loved ones,” Cronk wrote. “It is a difficult day for our students and teachers. These tragedies are difficult to comprehend and they deeply affect us all. As we grieve together, we remain committed to prioritizing the emotional well-being of our students, faculty and staff.” Cronk wrote that additional counselors and mental health professionals are on campus to support anyone in need.
“We are encouraging any student, faculty or staff to utilize these resources throughout the day as needed. Please reach out if you believe your child requires additional support during this challenging time,” Cronk wrote.
Moody Boulevard, Flagler Beach
Fleeing/eluding law enforcement Just take me to jail.
That’s what a 26-year-old Daytona Beach man told a deputy after pulling his truck over for a traffic stop — long after the deputy had initiated it. According to the man’s arrest report, the deputy spotted the man driving westbound over the Moody Bridge at a high rate of speed, which led him to activate his emergency lights and initiate a traffic stop. The man didn’t pull over and continued to drive west. He didn’t drive erratically and was obeying all other traffic laws (except for pulling over), the report notes, even stopping at multiple red lights. Then, he drove over deployed stop sticks, deflating all four tires. Still, he kept going westbound until finally pulling over at Landing Boulevard in Palm Coast.
When the deputy asked why he didn’t stop, the man shrugged his shoulders. He asked to be taken to jail, and refused to talk or answer questions.
There was no contraband in the truck, only a skateboard and a chair. He also didn’t appear to be under the influence of any alcohol or drugs. The deputy noted that “it was unknown” why the man failed to pull over. He was found, however, to be on misdemeanor probation for trespassing. He was taken to jail.
What to expect, how to prepare for hurricane season in Flagler County
The county has a new website where resients can see emergency information, weather reports, evacuation zones and sign up for emergency alerts.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
With the 2025 hurricane season approaching, Flagler County Emergency Management Director Jonathan Lord held a Hurricane Season Media Roundtable on Tuesday, May 27, at the Flagler County Emergency Operations Center.
Lord talked about what to expect, how to prepare and where to find pertinent information for neighborhood evacuations and updated forecasts.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The National Hurricane Center is predicting 13 to 19 named storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes and 3 to 5 major hurricanes this year. The 30-year average is 14 named storms, 7 hurricanes and 3 major hurricanes, so the Hurricane Center’s outlook is slightly above average. But these predictions have little value to Flagler or Volusia counties, Lord said.
“It doesn’t really matter that much to us in any way, shape or form because you could have the quietest hurricane season ever, and if that one storm comes to Flagler County, then it could be an extremely impactful year for us, or we could have the busiest hurricane season ever and if none of them come to Flagler, then we’re all happy, we’re good to go,” Lord said. “So, I think these are great little news bites. They’re great to grab people’s attention, but it’s super important not to focus on them because it doesn’t really mean anything for a specific community.”
Specifically for our areas, sea surface temperature is above normal, although not as warm as this time last year at above 80 degrees. Sea surface temperature has the greatest impact on hurricane formation.
Saharan dust is expected to reach Florida within the next week, which would help reduce potential storm activity, Lord said. But it won’t last the entire hurricane season. The season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30, but 96% of major hurricanes occur from midAugust to mid-October.
The Hurricane Center’s forecasting has again improved with the cone of the storms’ path now more precise and skinnier. Every six hours the path is corrected. The cone shows only where the eye of the storm might be and hurricane impacts can occur hundreds of miles outside of the cone, Lord said. The forecasts will now also show colored graphics showing where hurricane and tropical storm watches and warnings are for different areas.
“We really want our residents to focus less on the cone and more on those impact graphics,” Lord said.
WHAT’S NEW THIS YEAR
Flagler County has a new comprehensive, user-friendly emergency website: flaglercounty.gov/emergency. Buttons on the website include Emergency Notices and Emergency Alerts (ALERTFlagler) which allows residents to sign up for alerts, registering up to five addresses and eight different devices.
The button for Hurricane Evacuation Planning Zones shows potential evacuation zones in the county. If Emergency Management calls for evacuations, the maps will be replaced with evacuations based on neighborhoods.
Evacuations are generally called because of potential storm surge as well as for mobile homes and low-lying areas. Marineland to the end
of Flagler Beach will be under evacuation orders if a storm is heading from the Atlantic to the coast. The county won’t close bridges unless they are unsafe to drive on.
The Local Weather button on the website is updated each evening for the following day because TV weather reports are not usually Flagler-focused, Lord said.
The Training button lists upcoming free emergency training opportunities, including the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training, June 10-26 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 1 to 4 p.m. at the Flagler County Emergency Operations Center.
NEW SHELTER PLANNED
In addition to the county’s current shelters, a new $10.9 million state-funded shelter, approved last year, will be built at the Flagler County Fairgrounds just north of Cattleman’s Hall.
The shelter will have 10,000 square feet of shelter space and 5,000 square feet of ancillary space. It will be able to withstand 180 mph winds, Lord said. It will benefit Flagler County residents as well as residents in neighboring counties and will be a general and special needs shelter. Lord said it will hopefully be constructed and ready for use by next hurricane season.
PREPARATIONS
Residents should have a oneweek kit ready for living off the grid.
Plans should be made for where to go and how to receive communications in case cell phones cannot be charged.
Residents should sign up for ALERTFlagler to receive emergency alerts.
After he was adopted, FPC’s Slay pulled his grades up to graduate
‘He just wants to serve his country and help people.’
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Diego Bressler wasn’t sure how well his adopted son, Harlem Slay, would do on the ASVAB military test, which helps determine whether you are a good fit to join the armed services.
It was hard to tell, because Slay doesn’t talk much. One word answers are his norm. But it soon became evident to Bressler that Slay knew more answers on the practice test than he did.
“We were floored about how bright and smart he is,” Bressler said referring to himself and his wife, Mehury (pronounced Mary).
Slay also surprised Flagler Palm Coast High School’s counselors. When he transferred to FPC from Port
Orange Atlantic in his junior year, he was a long way from being able to graduate on time.
“He wanted to get his diploma and enlist in the Marines,” FPC counselor Amy Espinoza said. “He came from behind and put a lot of work in, testing, taking some classes.
Everything I asked him to do, he did.”
Slay was cleared to graduate just a few weeks ago. On Wednesday, May 28, he was scheduled to graduate with the rest of his FPC class. On July 8, he begins Marine Corps boot camp.
“He just wants to serve his country and help people,” Espinoza said.
“They’ll help me set paths for myself,” Slay said of joining the Marines.
Setting paths has been difficult for Slay. He never had a stable home life until meeting the Bresslers when he was 12 years old.
Slay and the Bresslers’ son, Xamuel, met at camp and
became friends. The Bresslers became his foster parents but lost him for two years after a judge sent him back to his parents, Mehury Bressler said. But he ended up back with the woman who had adopted his two older siblings.
Finally, the judge terminated the rights of his parents, Diego Bressler said.
“When the lady wanted to adopt him with his brother and sister, he said, ‘No, I want to be adopted by the Bresslers,’” Diego Bressler said. “It was very, very moving.”
The Bresslers adopted Slay on May 15, 2024.
“We loved him since he was 12,” Mehury said. “He’s an amazing kid.”
Having endured so much upheaval, Slay seems to thrive when he has structure in his life. As a member of FPC’s wrestling team, he said he enjoyed “the physical and mental challenge” the sport offered.
“The more you challenge him, the more he likes the structure, so the Marine Corps made sense,” Diego Bressler said.
Three weeks ago, Diego said, “Harlem chose to get baptized and follow in the faith. That was big for us.”
“He’s pretty happy,” Mehury said. “It was good to see him bring his grades up. We told him, ‘whatever happens, you have a home, you have a family.’”
Flagler County Emergency Management Director Jonathan Lord.
Photo by Brent Woronoff
Harlem Slay and his adopted family: Mehury, Kyler, Diego and Xamuel Bressler. Courtesy photos
Harlem Slay receives his U.S. Marines graduation stole.
Make yourself at home
Zelda vs. Degas: the battle for quality time
Negotiating with Luke
BRIAN MCMILLAN PUBLISHER
One recent evening, I was home alone with my 7-yearold son, Luke. We were determined to spend some quality time together. But it turns out that we have different definitions of quality.
“Let’s play ‘Tears of the Kingdom,’” Luke said.
I groaned.
“Tears” is a Legend of Zelda video game in which you direct a cartoon character around a cartoon land, and sometimes it gets worse: You get stuck for hours in confusing shrines to solve puzzles. And if that doesn’t sound bad enough, it’s also a one-player game, so I would just be watching him scurry around on the screen, while I twiddle my thumbs.
“How about if we read a book I just bought?” I countered.
Luke’s face went pale. “No,” he said, quietly horrified.
“Did you know they sell books at the library for two bucks?” I said, trying to make my enthusiasm rub off on him.
Unswayed, he offered a compromise, a video game that even I could understand:
“We could play Mario Kart.”
“You don’t even know what the book is about yet,” I said. “You have to give it a chance. It’s called ‘Degas.’”
He thought I said, “Te Ka,” which is a character in the Disney movie, “Moana.” But even that wasn’t enough to spark his interest.
“Let’s play something,” he tried again.
“Just sit tight,” I said. “I’ll get the book.”
From the other room, I returned with “Degas,” a gorgeous coffee table book.
“Can you believe it? Two bucks?!?” I said.
Sensing that he was about to lose, he negotiated further, and we settled on a system: I read aloud one page of “Degas,” and then he would play five minutes of Zelda.
I went first. It was hard to get past the cover, which is a detail from “Dance Class at the Opera” (1872). The composition is strange, with a large corner of the painting dedicated to a depiction of a
blank, open floor. Is this an error? Why not paint another dancer in that space? A group of ballerinas form a crescent in various poses: practicing, or simply leaning against the wall, bored. Then you see it: the open floor forms an opposite crescent, a kind of path crossing between the ballerinas, to a door in the back of the room. The door is open, giving us a view of the industrialized city outside.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
’Too much spending’
Dear Editor:
In light of the recent talk of putting a sales tax increase for Volusia County on the ballot (again), I looked at the operating budget from the year of most recent Volusia sales tax vote (2018-2019) and the current Volusia County operating budget year (2024-2025).
2018-2019: $768,755,651
2024-2025: $1,322,153,507
A 72% increase. Volusia County government doesn’t have a “not
enough taxes” problem. It has a “too much spending” problem.
JOE HANNOUSH Ormond Beach
It’s time for mayor to resign and Palm Coast to heal
Dear Editor: As a resident of Palm Coast for over two decades, I’ve witnessed our community grow, evolve and weather its share of challenges. Through
it all, a bedrock principle has remained: the importance of stable, ethical, and accountable leadership. It is with a heavy heart, but a firm conviction, that I must now call for Mayor Mike Norris to resign. His recent behavior and documented charter violations have created an untenable situation, undermining the very fabric of our city’s governance and trust. For weeks, we’ve watched a disturbing saga unfold. An independent investigation, commissioned by our own city, concluded that Mayor
creating the art? An older man with a cane keeps his eyes on the room, perhaps watching over the ballerinas, as if they are merely an investment.
“Wait,” Luke said, “Dad, where are you reading?”
“I accidentally started reading the second page.”
“Dad, no!”
Uh oh. Luke was rejecting my book, and our quality time together was turning into my quality time.
I gave up and set aside
“Degas.”
Instead, we entered the world of Link in “Tears of the Kingdom.”
At first I was anxious to return to “Degas.”
The contrast in styles is striking: Inside, the gauzy costumes of the ballerinas are impressionistic, while the outdoor scene appears to have been painted with tiny brush strokes, contrasting the busy “important” life of the city with the dreaminess of the life of art inside the ballet studio. Or was the ballet studio just one more factory, creating a product without regard to the souls
Norris violated our City Charter. The report details how he attempted to force the resignations of senior city staff without council approval — a clear overreach of his powers. This isn’t a minor infraction; it strikes at the heart of our councilmanager form of government, where the mayor’s role is largely ceremonial and administrative duties lie with the city manager. This violation alone, if left unchecked, sets a dangerous precedent for future leadership.
Beyond the charter violations, the report and subsequent events paint a picture of deeply unprofessional and inappropriate conduct. We’ve heard of demeaning comments, profane language, and even alleged inappropriate remarks toward female staff. This behavior, whether intentional or not, creates a hostile work environment for our dedicated city employees and casts a long shadow over our City Hall. It’s not the leadership Palm Coast deserves or expects.
Furthermore, Mayor Norris has engaged in a pattern of disruptive and divisive actions. He has reportedly made unsubstantiated accusations against local business leaders and even promoted unfounded conspiracy theories. His public attacks on fellow council members on social media, labeling them “illegal and illegitimate,” are not just unbecoming of a mayor, they actively erode the possibility of collaborative governance.
A healthy City Council thrives on respectful discourse, even amid disagreements. The current climate, largely fueled by the mayor’s actions, makes productive work nearly impossible.
The recent vote of no confidence by the other four council members with the investigation sent to the Florida Ethics Commission, speaks volumes. This isn’t a partisan attack; it’s a unified outcry from those closest to the situation, who are witnessing firsthand the damage being done. Even the city attorney has reportedly called his conduct “unprofessional and inappropriate.”
Perhaps most disheartening is the mayor’s response to these serious findings. Instead of addressing them constructively, we’ve seen him double down, even
But I slowly became convinced by the cartoonish world of Link. It was an unabashed digital world of polygons. But the muted colors harmonized nicely, the grasses waving slowly, the screen creating an illusion of depth, with mountains many miles in the distance. Suggestions of realism, but not realistic.
And most importantly, the smile on Luke’s face, which brought a smile to mine.
It would appear that quality time, like cartoons, art, and other illusions, are in the eye of the beholder.
physically removing his belongings from the shared council office and refusing to fulfill essential liaison duties. This represents an abdication of the very responsibilities he swore to uphold. Our city needs a leader who is committed to working with, not against, the rest of the council and city staff to serve the residents.
I’ve called Palm Coast home for two decades, and I’ve seen us overcome challenges through unity and a shared commitment to progress. What we are witnessing now is an unprecedented level of disruption and distrust. It’s a distraction from the critical work of managing our city, addressing our growth and ensuring the well-being of our residents.
Mayor Norris, for the good of Palm Coast, for the integrity of our governance, and for the morale of our city staff, it is time to resign. Let us move forward, heal these divisions and return to the collaborative leadership our beloved community truly deserves. Our city is bigger than any one individual, and its future depends on ethical, professional and unified leadership.
BRAD M. WEST Palm Coast
Timing of Palm Coast Mayor Norris’ lawsuit is concerning
Dear Editor:
What is most concerning and suspicious about the mayor’s lawsuit contending a Palm Coast City Charter violation in the manner in which Councilman Charles Gambaro was appointed, is the timing of the lawsuit. Gambaro was sworn in and took his seat on the council on Oct. 1, 2024. He was the former council’s favorite then by a 4-1 vote. Mayor Norris filed his lawsuit this month, seven-plus months later. Why the lengthy wait and why then?
Animosity between Norris and Gambaro, including childish name calling by Norris, who referred to Gambaro as an “imp” and “illegitimate,” continued to escalate during the months following Gambaro’s appointment.
Upon discovery that Norris had violated the City Charter for a variety of bad behaviors
things climaxed in April with a motion by Gambaro for a council censure of Norris, a vote of no confidence and a referral of the malfeasance matter to the Florida Ethics Commission with a possible eventual request to the governor for the mayor to be removed from office. All the council members concurred, and each publicly chastised the mayor for his actions. Curiously, almost immediately after all these punitive and embarrassing actions, Norris retained an attorney and on May 5 filed the lawsuit naming Gambaro and the City Council as defendants. But is Norris less concerned about the Gambaro appointment process than his personal animosity toward a fellow council member? Is it really some altruistic reverence for the City Charter or simply opportunistic revenge directed at both Gambaro personally and the whole City Council? It seems pretty reasonable, based upon the lawsuit timing, to suspect he’s looking for his “pound of flesh” while at the same time diverting attention away from the indignity of his own ethical lapses. How long this legal action will continue and its eventual outcome is uncertain. But, what is certain, is that it is highly unlikely to put to rest the unwelcome city government chaos and controversy attributable to the reign of Mayor Mike. Actually, whatever the court’s final ruling, it’s more likely to exacerbate it.
MARGARET MINUTAGLIO Palm Coast
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.
FACEBOOK FEEDBACK
After the Palm Coast Observer posted a story on the City Council’s plan to raise impact fees for new homes, Jeff Meyer responded on Facebook: “This will not help housing affordability in the area.” Joy A. Cook responded: “It’s never been affordable to live here. ... Wages are the problem! Always have been.”
“Dance Class at the Opera,” by Edgar Degas
European Performing Arts Conservatory to present ‘Sleeping Beauty’
The production will feature Eva Lehnertz as Princess Aurora, Hannah Mayall as Maleficent and Alayna Byrom as the benevolent Lilac Fairy.
OBSERVER STAFF
The European Performing Arts Conservatory in Ormond Beach is taking audiences on a journey through a fairytale kingdom with its semiannual ballet production of “Sleeping Beauty.”
To be presented at the Seabreeze High School theatre at 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 7, and 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 8, the production will feature Eva Lehnertz as Princess Aurora, Hannah Mayall as Maleficent and Alayna Byrom as the benevolent Lilac Fairy.
“This is one of the most beloved ballets of all time,” EPAC Artistic Director Kaley Marshall said in a press release. “Our dancers have poured their hearts into bringing this story to life with both technical precision and heartfelt emotion. It’s a perfect celebration of the classical ballet tradition and a wonderful experience for the whole family.”
A cast of over 60 dancers is taking part in the show, from young students to seasoned performers, the press release states. Set to Tchaikovsky’s music, the ballet tells the story of Princess Aurora who was cursed by Maleficent at her christening to prick her finger on a spindle and die. The Lilac Fairy softens the curse and ensures Aurora will awaken with true love’s kiss, and 100 years later, a prince braves the journey to awaken her and restore peace to the kingdom. Tickets cost $31.95 and are available at https://SleepingBeautyBalletbyEPAC.eventbrite.com. Ages 5 and under are free.
The Seabreeze High School theatre is located at 2700 N. Oleander Ave. in Daytona Beach.
Antonio Amaral Foundation awards 16 scholarships at 19th anniversary
The scholarship totaled $31,000. The foundation also honored two locals for their extraordinary service to the Portuguese community.
MARIA PEREIRA GUEST WRITER
The Antonio Amaral Foundation celebrated the 19th anniversary of its traditional BPT (Best Party in Town) on May 18 in Palm Coast with over 600 people attending, enjoying food, music and good times.
The foundation awarded 16 scholarships, plus two from a local high school, totaling $31,000, and also honored two members of the community for their extraordinary service to the Portuguese community. Over the years, the Antonio Amaral Foundation has given out 270 scholarships totaling $446,500 and also provided $71,000 in aid to people in need.
Tony and Maria Amaral awarded Jose Gonçalves with a plaque honoring his service. The plaque says: “In Recognition of Over 15 Years of Dedication to Rancho Folclórico Corações de Portugal. As a Passionate Leader and Cultural Steward your unwavering passion, leadership, and dedication have preserved the beauty of Portuguese tradition — celebrating heritage through dance, music and community spirit, and inspiring generations to take pride in their roots. Presented by the Antonio Amaral Foundation”
Tony and Maria also awarded Maria Elizabeth Frazão Pereira with a plaque honoring her service that says: “Community Communicator Award, In Recognition of your dedicationto sharing News and celebrating the spirit of the Portuguese
Community in Palm Coast. Your work as a trusted voice has kept the community informed, preserved our heritage, and strengthened the ties that unite us. Presented by the Antonio Amaral Foundation.”
Joe Carlos Madalena was the winner of a round trip to Portugal.
2025 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS
Elijah James Cordeiro: Graduating from Bartram Trail High School, Elijah will attend Florida State University to pursue cyber criminology with plans to become a criminal lawyer. Elijah was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $1,500.
Andrew John Costa: Currently attending Daytona State College, Andrew is working toward a career as an athletic trainer. Andrew was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $1,500.
Cody Gerard Bertola: Currently attending Daytona State College, Cody is studying criminal justice with plans to transfer to the University of Central Florida to complete his bachelor’s degree. He dreams of becoming a trooper with the Florida Highway Patrol and ultimately
an FBI agent. Cody was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $1,500.
Braeden Cristiano Dias: Graduating from Mainland High School, Braeden plans to attend either Stetson University or Indiana University, majoring in criminal justice or forensic science. Described as focused and goal-oriented, he will be the first in his family to attend college. Braeden was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $1,500.
Emily K. Madalena: A student at The University of Tampa, Emily is pursuing a degree in accounting with the goal of becoming a CPA. Emily was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $1,500.
Guillherme De Almeida Cerqueira: Born in Portugal and now attending Aviator College in Fort Pierce, Guillherme is training to become a commercial pilot. He already holds a private pilot’s license and is chasing the American dream with purpose and pride. Guillherme was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $1,500.
Christian Armando Azevedo: Graduating from St. Joseph Academy, Christian will attend Florida International University to study
finance. A proud first-generation college student, Christian was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $1,500.
Jessica Grace Camacho: Currently playing varsity softball at Eastern Florida State College, Jessica is pursuing early childhood education. Jessica was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $2,000.
Aryanna Lameiro DiFatta: Graduating from Matanzas High School, Aryanna will attend FSU to doublemajor in management and Latino & Caribbean studies with a focus on immigration law. Aryanna was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $2,000.
Sabrina DaSilva Carvalheira: Attending the University of North Florida, Sabrina is working toward a career in pediatric nursing. Described as relentlessly dedicated, Sabrina was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $2,000.
Trista M. Mendes: At the University of Alabama, Trista is in the prestigious University Fellows Program studying communicative disorders. Inspired by her father’s journey with dyslexia, she is a leader in an ESL program. Trista was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $2,000.
Melinda Ann Misdom: Melinda is graduating from Colonial High School and will attend the University of Central Florida to major in forensic chemistry with a minor in psychology. Her goal is to become a forensic toxicologist, combining science and justice to serve communities. Melinda was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $2,000. Arielle Maria Yantin: Arielle studies at UCF and has made the Dean’s List while working as a reading tutor. She is exploring careers in speechlanguage pathology or behavior therapy and hopes to study abroad. Arielle was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $2,000. Alexander Miguel Camacho: Currently studying biomedical science
at UCF, Alexander is preparing for the MCAT with plans to become a pediatric anesthesiologist. Alexander was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $2,000.
Isabella Marie Santos Reis: Isabella is graduating from Matanzas High School and will be attending Daytona State College, beginning her journey as a teacher’s assistant while pursuing her lifelong dream of becoming a nurse. She is the recipient of the second-highest scholarship award this year, a recognition of both her academic promise and her deep commitment to her community. Isabella is described by her mentors as mature, persistent, intelligent and incredibly kind. She has danced proudly with Rancho Corações de Portugal since moving to Palm Coast. She is a dedicated member of Juventude do PACC, actively participating in cultural events and volunteering behind the scenes. Isabella was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $2,500.
Marissa Nicole Jesus: Marissa is currently attending Daytona State College, pursuing her bachelor’s degree in nursing with the goal of becoming an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), specializing in diabetes and cardiovascular disease. She is the top scholar of this year’s awards, not only for her academic excellence but for her extraordinary commitment to the Portuguese-American community. Marissa is deeply involved in the Portuguese American Cultural Center (PACC) where she volunteers regularly. She serves as a Juventude do PACC Youth Group leader’s assistant, helping to mentor younger members and lead cultural activities. A proud and passionate dancer with Rancho Corações de Portugal, Marissa was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $3,000.
Top: Faeries Emma Billings and Alayna Blum. Middle: Fairy Christina Pruna, Eva Lehnertz as Princess Aurora, and Fairy Olivia Kushner. Bottom: Fairies Danica Jenkins and Betsy Reese. Hannah Mayall, as Maleficent, is pictured beside the group. Photo courtesy of Jen Sabatini Photography
The 2025 Antonio Amaral Foundation scholarship winners. Courtesy photo
LOCAL EVENTS
THURSDAY, MAY 29
HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR
Where: 10:30 a.m. to noon
Where: MacDonald House, 38 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond
Beach
Where: Step back in time with the Ormond Beach Historical Society during the last historical walking tour of the season. Learn the stories of Ormond’s historical sites and local legends. Costs $20 per person. Visit ormondhistory. org/walking-tour.
PALM COAST
CONCERT SERIES
Where: 6-8 p.m.
Where: The Stage at Town Center, 1500 Central Ave., Palm Coast
Where: The Palm Coast Concert Series is back, and Chillula will kick off the free community event. There will be live music, food trucks, vendors, yard games, beer and wine. Bring a chair. This concert will also feature the “Biz & Brews” pop-up event.
FRIDAY, MAY 30
THE BLACK SHEEP
CEILI BAND
Where: 7-10 p.m.
Where: Fletcher’s Irish Pub, 393 W. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Where: The Black Sheep Ceili Band is performing for a cause. All tips and funds raised during the show will go to Provision Packs. The band is comprised of local musicians who play for the love of traditional Irish music, and always for charity. Individuals who donate $20 during the show will receive a free band T-shirt or a pint glass, to be filled with Guinness.
Where: Learn about otters while journaling. Program is designed for ages 13 and older. Beginners are welcome, and materials will be provided if needed.
SUMMER WELLNESS JAM
Where: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Southern Recreation Center, 1290 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast
Where: The City of Palm Coast, in partnership with the Palm Coast-Flagler Health Alliance, is inviting the community to this free, familyfriendly event promoting healthy living through fitness, fun and food awareness. The event will feature “To Dye For,” a documentary, as well as youth pickleball clinic &
kids fitness classes, a Q&A; session with the documentary creators, and pickleball and fitness demonstrations.
SMOKIN’ AT THE HOUSE
Where: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Flagler Beach Fire Station 11, 320 S. Flagler Ave., Flagler Beach
Where: The Flagler Woman’s Club invites the community to celebrate the men and women of the Flagler Beach police and fire departments
Hometown award-winning barbecue champ Tom Snow of the Parrot Head Porkers will be serving up pulled pork with sides. A $12 donation is requested. Eat in or take out. Call Kathi at 908-839-8862 or Mary at 386-569-7813 for more information.
Where: The Father Eamonn Gill Council 13018 Knights
of Columbus will serve its famous pancake breakfast in the social hall. The meal includes all the pancakes you can eat, scrambled eggs, a sausage link, orange juice and endless coffee. The breakfast costs $6 and children under 12 eat free. All are welcome.
DANCE & ACTING WITH MS. DEBBY PRESENTS ‘MOL’S SPEAK EASY
Where: 2 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center, 399 N. U.S. 1, Ormond Beach
Where: See the Dance & Act with Ms. Debby 2025 June recital, a 1920s review that follows the antics of Charlotte and the Newsies. Tickets cost $25. Visit ormondbeachperformingartscenter.csstix.com.
TUESDAY, JUNE 3
CELEBRATE SUMMER
KICK-OFF
Where: 1 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach
Regional Public Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach
Where: Celebrate the start of summer with the library. Families can spin the prize wheel and take summer-themed photos. School-aged children and teens can register for the Volusia County Public Library Summer Reading Challenge and pick up a summer reading bag filled with activities and supplies.
WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP
Where: 1-4 p.m.
Where: Ocean Art Gallery, 197 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Where: Paint along with watercolor artist Bibi Gromling. All supplies are included in the $75 class fee. No drawing is required. Call 386-3179400.
HOW COLOR CAME TO THE WORLD, FOLK TALES FROM LATIN AMERICA — SHADOW PUPPET SHOW
Where: 2 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach
Regional Public Library, 30 S.
Beach St., Ormond Beach
Where: Storyteller and puppeteer Katie Adams will perform Hispanic stories with a dash of Spanish words, colorful shadow puppets and audience participation.
PALM COAST
ASTRONOMY CLUB
Where: 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Where: Flagler County Public Library, 2500 Palm Coast Parkway NW, Palm Coast
Where: The Palm Coast Astronomy Club will hold its next meeting at the library. The meeting’s topic will be “Probing our Sun: Discoveries from the Parker Solar Probe.” Everyone interested in astronomy is welcome. The meeting room is located to the right after entering the library.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4
PARANORMAL PARLOR: SPIRIT SPEAKS IN THE DREAM REALM
Where: 6-7 p.m.
Where: Allure Skin Care Salon, 555 W. Granada Blvd., Suite F3, Ormond Beach
Where: Psychic empath Michelle Davidson discuss her journey as a psychic medium during this monthly talk about supernatural topics. This month’s topic is “Spirit Speaks in the Dream Realm.” Costs $10 and includes a dream journal kit. Seating is limited to 10. Please RSVP at www.psychiccleansings. com. Mini reading session will be offered from 7-8 p.m. and this costs $20 for a 10-minute oracle card/mediumship reading.
THURSDAY, JUNE 5
‘INTO NEVERLAND’ OPENING RECEPTION
Where: 5-7 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach Where: “Into Neverland” is a solo exhibition by Channing Gray, whose work is a “constellation of swirling images that intertwine stories of her kin and being a Quarter-Rican
Florida girl living in the south.” Free admission. Meet the artist and enjoy light refreshments.
LADIES NIGHT OUT: FLOWER POT PAINTING
Where: 6-9 p.m.
Where: Serendipity Marketplace, 5 Commercial Court, Palm Coast Where: Paint your own flower pot, sip on refreshments, and enjoy great company. No experience needed. Seating is limited. Event costs $30 per person. Register at https:// bit.ly/4jgVuZE.
FRIDAY, JUNE 6 FREE FAMILY ART NIGHT Where: 5:30-7 p.m. Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach Where: Create a family tree with Emma Dennison, curator of youth programs and outreach. This month’s project is inspired by Gustav Klimt’s “The Tree of Life.” All art supplies are provided. No art experience is needed. All ages are welcome.
MOVIES ON THE HALIFAX Where: 8:30 p.m. Where: Rockefeller Gardens, 26 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach Where: Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a showing of “If,” rated PG. Movies are weathersensitive. Call 386-676-3216 for rainout information.
SATURDAY, JUNE 7 FIRST BUNNELL HISTORY DAY Where: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Edward Johnson Park, 401 E. Court St., Bunnell Where: Attend this historic event as Bunnell cellerates its 114th anniversary. Enjoy food trucks, history displays, demonstrations, DJ music, vendors, history reenactors and tours of local landmarks. There will also be a kids’ zone, farmer’s market, wine/beer tent and a mechanical bull.
REAL ESTATE
House at Shelter Cove tops sales list
Ahouse at 49 Shelter Cove Circle, in Shelter Cove, was the top real estate transaction for May 10-16 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The house sold on May 16, for $2,300,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 5/4 and has a pool, an elevator, an outdoor kitchen, a boat dock and 5,096 square feet.
the house is a 4/3.5 and has a pool, a hot tub and 2,862 square feet. It sold in 2025 for $660,000.
A house at 16 Burning Tree Place sold on May 16, for $450,000. Built in 2001, the house is a 4/3 and has a pool, an in-law suite and 2,048 square feet. It sold in 2003 for $42,500.
A house at 3 Burland Place sold on May 16, for $415,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,852 square feet. It sold in 2005 for $222,500.
A house at 118 Brushwood Lane sold on May 14, for $334,900. Built in 1990, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,838 square feet. It sold in 2015 for $152,300.
Condos
A condo at 28 Porto Mar, Unit 303, sold on May 15, for $2,150,000. Built in 2007, the condo is a 4/4.5 and has 3,847 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $2,250,000.
A condo at 200 Ocean Crest Drive, Unit 211, sold on May 15, for $685,000. Built in 2003, the condo is a 3/3 and has 1,818 square feet. It sold in 2016 for $455,000.
PALM COAST
Colbert Landings
A house at 26 Ararat Drive sold on May 16, for $374,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 1,985 square feet.
A house at 40 Oconee Drive sold on May 16, for $495,500. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3.5 and has 2,715 square feet.
Grand Haven
A house at 39 Jasmine Drive sold on May 16, for $605,000. Built in 2004,
A house at 30 Creekside Drive sold on May 15, for $899,000. Built in 2007, the house is a 3/3.5 and has a hot tub and 3,365 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $757,000.
A house at 32 Jasmine Drive sold on May 14, for $620,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a pool and 2,233 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $450,000.
Indian Trails
A house at 29 Buffalo View Lane sold on May 15, for $367,500. Built in 2023, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,721 square feet.
A house at 11 Buffalo Grove Drive sold on May 16, for $334,900. Built in 2025, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,467 square feet.
House on Orchard Lane is Ormond’s top sale
Ahouse at 122 Orchard Lane in the Ormond Beach Estates subdivision was the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea for the week of May 3-9. The house sold on May 5, for $925,000. Built in 1966, the house is a 4/3 and has a pool and 2,892 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $810,000.
JARLEENE ALMENAS
MANAGING EDITOR
Condos
The condo at 2390 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 4010, sold on May 9, for $305,000. Built in 1990, the condo is a 2/2 and has 936 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $180,000.
The condo at 1275 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 205, sold on May 6, for $385,000. Built in 1981, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,015 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $110,000.
ORMOND BEACH
Breakaway Trails
The house at 36 Black Pine Way sold on May 9, for $415,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,081 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $276,000.
Fiesta Heights
The house at 120 Colina Place sold on May 6, for $260,000. Built in 1980, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,732 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $54,800.
Forest Hills The house at 1298 Fernway Drive sold on May 7, for $300,000. Built in 1999, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,308 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $278,000.
Fountain View
The house at 1511 Fountain View St. sold on May 6, for $409,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,020 square feet.
Halifax Plantation
The house at 1458 Dolph Circle sold on May 5, for $629,900. Built in 2006, the house is a 3/3 and has a fireplace, a pool and 2,662 square feet. It last sold in 2006 for $335,700.
The house at 1336 Asher Court sold on May 5, for $340,000. Built in 2001, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,812 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $299,900.
Lincoln Park
The house at 424 Sauls St. sold on May 8, for $206,000. Built in 1960, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,161 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $200,000.
Ormond Lakes
The house at 11 Lakebluff Drive sold on May 9, for $495,000. Built in 2000, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a pool, a spa and 2,018 square feet. It last sold in 2000 for $166,167.
Ormond Terrace
The house at 290 Warwick Ave. sold on May 8, for $370,000. Built in 1973, the house is a 3/2.5 and has 2,114
A house at 37 Bassett Lane sold on May 11, for $376,000. Built in 1995, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,850 square feet. It sold in 2024 for $350,000.
Palm Harbor
A house at 44 Feling Lane sold on May 16, for $403,650. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,166 square feet.
A house at 74 Folson Lane sold on May 16, for $307,500. Built in 2003, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,858 square feet. It sold in 2013 for $150,000.
Seminole Woods
A house at 53 Universal Trail sold on May 16, for $330,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,555 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $378,000.
Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report.
square feet. It last sold in 1983 for $79,500
Stratford Place
The house at 11 Stratford Place sold on May 5, for $320,000. Built in 1983, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 2,016 square feet. It last sold in 1983 for $67,500.
The house at 794 Victoria Circle E. sold on May 7, for $325,000. Built in 1984, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,622 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $255,000.
University Circle
The house at 92 University Circle sold on May 9, for $555,000. Built in 1963, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a fireplace and 2,479 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $400,000.
ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA
Atlantic Shores
The house at 123 Marlin Drive sold on May 9, for $370,000. Built in 1978, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,293 square feet. It last sold in 2013 for $150,000.
River Breeze Estates
The house at 1223 Riverbreeze Blvd. sold on May 9, for $374,500. Built in 1957, the house is a 2/2 and has a fireplace and 1,798 square feet. It last sold in 2004 for $233,000.
John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.
PALM COAST
ORMOND BEACH
Courtesy photo
Ormond Beach schools host ‘Senior Clap Outs’ for local grads
Atlantic, Father Lopez, Mainland, Seabreeze and Spruce Creek seniors visited their former elementary schools on May 21.
MICHELE MEYERS
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Dressed in graduation regalia, seniors from Atlantic, Father Lopez, Mainland, Seabreeze and Spruce Creek arrived at the Beachside and Tomoka Elementary campuses on Wednesday, May 21, to take part in the annual Senior Clap Out.
Celebrations were also held at Pathways, Pine Trail and Ormond Beach Elementary.
This was Tomoka’s inaugural Senior Clap Out. Principal Julie Roseboom said it was nice when the seniors got excited about the totem pole currently located in the main hallway of the new school. It was relocated from their former school after construction was completed last summer.
The seniors also added a few extras to the celebration, including singing the school song and sharing memories of the oak tree that grew in front of the media center at the school’s previous location. They got a group photo taken in front of the tree currently planted in the courtyard.
“I loved seeing the children clapping for them,” Roseboom said.
“When the seniors walked in, the kids stopped in the hall and looked at them in awe. I hope that that sparks their interest and understanding
(about) why they are wearing caps and gowns — what’s next for them. It was amazing just to watch [the seniors] excited about where they had been and what’s happened to their school since they went away.”
Triplets Emma, Hana and Kendra Uneda will be graduating from Seabreeze on Friday, May 30, at the Ocean Center. Emma and Kendra will be attending the University of South Florida and Hana will be going to the University of North Florida to major in psychology or criminal justice. Hana said she knew it was worth going back to Tomoka when she walked through the hallways and the kids started clapping. Hana said she hopes they look up to the seniors and want to be better and work harder.
“It definitely has a really big nostalgic feeling,” Hana said. “But also because the school is different after construction, it is bittersweet, in a sense. It’s like a coming of age.”
Beachside fifth graders cheered as 18 seniors took the stage. Seabreeze student Josh Yost will be attending the University of Central Florida
where he plans on starting his journey toward becoming a lawyer. He has worked at Alfie’s in Ormondby-the-Sea since he was a freshman and offered words of advice to the students for success.
“I think working in high school is a good thing — you need work ethic for your future life,” he said. “To succeed in middle school and high school, I recommend finding a group of peers who share common goals with you and have a support group around you to help you become a better student overall.”
Kindergarten teacher Melissa Heller was teaching at Osceola Elementary when they joined with Ortona and moved in to Beachside after it was built in 2023.
“We make such a difference,” she said. “We don’t always see it until a time like this happens when they (seniors) come back and we see their smiling faces and their achievements. That’s when it comes fullcircle.”
Seabreeze senior Guarielyz Rivera Seise arrives at Beachside Elementary.
Mainland’s Abigail Peterzell (second from left) laughs about old elementary photos with her first grade teacher Amanda Shirah (left), kindergarten teacher Kristin Robinson (second from right) and Marcia Peterzell (right) at Tomoka’s Senior Walk. Photos by Michele Meyers
Atlantic, Mainland, Seabreeze and Spruce Creek high school seniors pose with former teachers.
Seabreeze’s Gavin Dioquino finds his elementary school pictures from when he was a student at Tomoka.
Seabreeze’s Brogan Kelly, Father Lopez’s Adelae Fulton and Seabreeze’s Alec Phillips pose next to the Tomoka Elementary totem pole.
Seabreeze’s Isabella Mudge and Izzy Machado search through elementary school photos.
Seabreeze’s Kaily Annon (right) gives all her former elementary school teachers flowers with a quote attached.
Dameria Wiley Deontay Wiley Eriana Williamson Donte Williams
Georkiereon Williams Javon Williams Jynna-Bess Williams Kaedin Williams Karmen Williams Kiera Williams Marlay Williams Nathan Williams Amari Wills Khalil Wilmore Ahmad Wilson
Antonio Wilson Charles Wilson Tatianna Wilson Trevor Winebrenner
Cheyenne Woodworth
Drayden Wood Kiemaya Williams Jeremiah Yancey Pollard
Abigail YatesChilders
Cagri Yilmaz Tyler Young
Raymond Zhang Melonie Zunun Lopez
Mainland grad Kiera Williams, who was also Miss Mainland.
Jerome Swinton Kayla Tatro D Niyah Taylor Georne Taylor Alexia Thames Alauna Theodore Allison
Caleb Thomas Jesiah Thomas Shekinah Thomas Aziyah Thompkins
Mariah Tongkam Kamryn Troutman
Tucker Dontavian Taylor Celia Tillman Sierra Tomilson Jerehymoni Vardaman
Andrew Vassell Juan Velasco Ty Ventress Adrianna Villacres
Father Lopez grad Amelia Cappella
Father Lopez grad Andreya Bridger
Mainland grad Abigail Grove, class valedictorian.
Mainland grad Kayla Tatro
Father Lopez grad Caroline Theriault
Mainland grad Jaiden Harvey
Adelae
ClydeKatherine Corbett
Cotton Landon DeanAlexandra Defeo Marilyn DeWittIsabella Digon
Anna Grace Edwards Richae GibsonDiogo GomesAudrey Greathouse Davian Hernandez Chloe HoffDaniel JimenezLeiry JimenezJoseph KeelenKrystal Ketchum Nicholas Kinsey
Abigail Koppernolle
Thalia PerezBryant Pico Vera Jonathan Prentice Naylea RamirezRyan RaszlRobert Ridgeway
Spires
Emma WilenHannah WilenJordan
Plan B
Matanzas adapts on the fly for emotional spring football victory.
BRENT WORONOFF
EDITOR
ASSOCIATE
Matanzas football coach Matt For-
rest’s play sheet for the spring game on May 23 against Pine Ridge resembled a crossword puzzle written in pen — by someone not very good at solving crossword puzzles.
Plays were crossed out, notes were written in margins. That’s what happens when you find out about four hours before kickoff that your start-
ing quarterback and other players who had transferred in were ineligible for the game because they had played for another school in the fall.
The Pirates were already shorthanded due to injuries, Forrest said.
“We talk all the time about thriving in chaos. And today was about as chaotic of a day we could have,” Forrest said.
It was also a very emotional day for the Pirates. They played before a packed house at “the Ship.” They defeated the Panthers 14-7. Jor-
dan Schendorf — who had never taken a rep at quarterback in practice — threw a touchdown pass. And Andrew Bass — who took his first snaps at running back — scored the
Coach: Seabreeze result shows hard working is paying off
The Sandcrabs defeated University 7-3 in two quarters, and their younger players shut out Crescent City 21-0 in the jamboree.
Seabreeze won both of its halves in the Crescent City football jamboree on Friday, May 23. The Sandcrabs defeated University 7-3 on Jayce Gainer’s 2-yard quarterback sweep, and then played its second and third units in a 21-0 win over a young Crescent City squad.
Ben Franklin ran for a 51-yard touchdown against the Raiders and caught an 80-yard touchdown pass from Michael McDonough. Logan Smith added a 1-yard touchdown run. “We had a great spring,” said Seabreeze coach Mike Klein, who will
be starting his second season with the Sandcrabs this fall. “From January to May we made a lot of progress in the weight room, and then practice was great. The kids were really focused.”
Klein said the defense is ahead of the offense, which is to be expected since new offensive coordinator
Matt Dickmann has installed a brand new offense.
“We’re going into our second year with the defense,” Klein said. “Our defense looks pretty stout right now.”
The Sandcrabs have a lot of returning players from last season, many of whom have grown into leadership roles, Klein said.
“There has been a lot of improvement. We’ve had a very competitive spring at all positions. All we’ve been preaching is buying into the program. We can build something here.
And they can see it.
“The (jamboree) showed that we’re getting where we need to be. But we’re not there yet. We still have a lot of work to do.”
winning touchdown on a 33-yard run.
After the game, they held a celebration for departing assistant head coach Donny LaFleur, who is returning with his family to their home state of Tennessee and his former school. LaFleur was overcome with emotion as he hugged players and received a game ball from Forrest. The Pirates presented LaFleur with a signed team banner. LaFleur said he’ll hang it in his garage.
“I’ll be able to see it all the time and just be reminded of what we built here working with these young men,” he said.
“We’re definitely going to miss him,” Forrest said. “He’s done a great job here and definitely left the program better than when he found it.”
TOSSING OUT THE GAME PLAN
When the Pirates were informed at around 3 p.m. that transfer quarterback Cole Walker would not be allowed to play in the spring game, they scrambled. The plan was to work backup quarterback Cole Hardy, a rising sophomore, into the game late. With Walker on the sideline, the Matanzas coaches decided it wouldn’t be to Hardy’s benefit to throw him into the fire.
“Cole Hardy’s got a bright future. … But he needs more time to develop,
and when you’re talking about rearranging everything at the last minute, we didn’t want to put that on his plate,” Forrest said.
Schendorf, a rising senior, said he was informed at 3:30 or “4ish” that he would start at quarterback. The wide receiver threw two touchdown passes off trick plays against Flagler Palm Coast last season. He had played quarterback in flag football, but he never prepared to play the position for Matanzas.
“He is one of the smartest players we have on our whole team. He’s super cerebral,” Forrest said. “He knows the plays like the back of his hand. And he can throw the ball really well.”
Schendorf completed a long pass to Ladarien Baker to set up an 11-yard touchdown pass to Thomas Larywon with 5:04 left in the first half giving Matanzas a 7-0 lead.
“At first I was nervous, but as the punches kept rolling I kept adapting,” Schendorf said. “We had to close the playbook a little bit; it was not as open as it would have been for Cole (Walker). I was just game managing, not trying to be a superhero, just managing the game, and I feel like my quarterback coach, Coach Bryce (Petellat), and Coach Forrest were pleased with how I did.”
“We lost our QB due to transfer eligibility. We lost our center, we lost a lot of starters, but our team, we always persevere no matter what. We find a way.”
ANDREW BASS
WINNING TOUCHDOWN
After Pine Ridge quarterback Deandre Weston tied the score with a 45-yard third-quarter touchdown run, the Pirates found a spark in Bass. Forrest said they had tinkered with the idea of trying the slot receiver at running back and see if he could run in between the tackles — Bass is listed at 5-foot-7, 135 pounds on hudl. com. On three consecutive plays, he ran for a total of 70 yards, culminating with the 33-yard touchdown run with about 4:45 left in the game. He bounced off would-be tacklers on each run.
“We said, in the second half, why not put him back there, and let him get some carries,” Forrest said, “I don’t know how many tackles he bounced off of, but he might have broken three or four tackles on a single run.”
After the touchdown, he was swarmed by his teammates. Bass said he was ready to contribute any way he could.
“With the workout plan, we stay ready for every moment,” Bass said. “We lost our QB due to transfer eligibility. We lost our center, we lost a lot of starters, but our team, we always persevere no matter what. We find a way.”
And they did it on a most chaotic day.
“Our program is set up to be able to endure and overcome,” Forrest said. “We don’t always get the best bounces, but our kids show up and they work their tails off and our coaches work their tails off.
“And I think the thing I’m most proud of about our program is this show would go on no matter what players are in the game, what coaches are coaching. And that’s a testament to the people who built it and who’ve been a part of it.”
FPC coach cautiously optimistic after loss
The Bulldogs turned the ball over three times in the first quarter leading to three Bishop Moore touchdowns in the spring game.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Flagler Palm Coast had to sit out their transfer players who played for another school last season, and that might have contributed to their lopsided loss at Orlando Bishop Moore in the spring game on May 23.
But first-year coach Patrick Turner said he’s not worried about the score against the Hornets, a team that advanced to the Class 3A regional finals last season. Bishop Moore outscored FPC 49-7 in the first half when the varsity players were in the game.
FPC quarterback La’Darius Simmons, who played for Halifax Academy last season, was one of the players who was ineligible due to a Florida High School Athletic Association
rule that links fall and spring football together as one season. A player who plays football for one school in the fall can’t play for another until after that school year.
Simmons is the leading candidate to be the Bulldogs’ starter this fall.
“La’Darius has been running with the first group,” Turner said. “It looks like he has a little bit better understanding.”
Jason Ebding got the start against Bishop Moore. It was his first experience in a varsity game.
Ebding played the first half. He turned the ball over three times in the first quarter which led to three Bishop Moore touchdowns.
But he settled down in the second quarter and threw a touchdown pass to Logan Jacobelli, Turner said.
Running back Ehimen Ajede ran for over 100 yards in the first half.
“He had some big runs,” Turner said. “Our three turnovers didn’t help the defense out, and they came after explosive plays.
“We kind of shot ourselves in the foot. But for our lack of experience on both sides of football, I was really impressed and super proud of the effort. Everything we didn’t do is fixable. I can’t wait to get them in the classroom and watch the film.”
FPC coach Patrick Turner said, ‘Everything we didn’t do’ in the spring game ‘is fixable.’ Photo by Brent Woronoff
Matanzas rising senior Jordan Schendorf didn’t know he was playing quarterback until a few hours before gametime. Photos by Brent Woronoff
Assistant coach Donny LaFleur is flanked by receivers Thomas Larywon and Brady Putis after his final game with the Pirates.
Seth places second, third at track championships
Eighth grader Douglas Seth placed second and third at the Florida Youth Running Association Middle School State Track and Field Championship on May 16-17 at IMG Academy in Bradenton.
Seth ran a personal record 9:14.81 to place third out of 82 runner in the boys 3,000-meter run. He was leading before getting outkicked at the end. In the 1,500, it was Seth who had the late surge, passing two runners in the final 100 meters to finish second out of 61 runners in 4:23.40.
Seth was one of three runners from the Imagine School at Town Center club team to qualify for the championships. Seventh grader Avery Wisniewski placed 30th in in the 1,500 with a time of 5:15.06 and 31st in the 3,000 in 11:43.22. Both times were PR’s. Sixth grader Madelyn Yorgey also qualified. She was one of only nine sixth graders to run in the girls
Borgmann, Cronk repeat as top FPC athletes
Christina Borgmann and Colby Cronk were named the Female and Male Athletes of the Year, respectively, at the Flagler Palm Coast Athletic Awards Show on May 20 at the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center.
The two seniors were also the Bulldogs’ Athletes of the Year in 2024. They both won state championships for the second year in a row. Borgmann defended her state wrestling title, and Cronk repeated as Class 4A state shot put champ.
Cronk also set the FPC football team’s career sacks record. He attended the awards show remotely from North Carolina State Univer-
sity where he has begun his first college semester and is training for his freshman football season. The defensive end is FPC’s first football player to sign with a power-five football conference directly out of high school. Borgmann helped lead the Bulldogs to the state girls wrestling championship. They won FPC’s Team of the Year Award. Borgmann and Kendall Bibla each won a state title for the second time, while five others on the team placed in the top five at state: Ana Vilar (second); Joslyn Johnson, Mariah Mills and Tiana Fries (third); and Alexa Calidonio (fifth).
Wrestling coach David Bossardet, who has stepped down after moving into the district office as Flagler Schools’ safety specialist, won the Coach of the Year Award.
Three-sport athlete Corinthians “RJ” Watson won the Spirit of Flagler Award, representing the embodiment of what it means to be a Bulldog on and off the field. Watson was on the football, basketball and track and field teams. He placed eighth in triple jump at the Class 4A track and field championships. Watson plans to play football this fall at St. Thomas University in Miami.
FPC PRINCIPAL AWARD WINNERS FOR EACH SPORT:
3,000 meters, finishing 47th out of 57 runners with a time of 12:20.38. Athletic
Boys
There are three age group runs from half a mile (ages 3-5), 1.5 miles (ages 6-9) and three miles (ages 10-13). Cost is $30. Register at https://runsignup.com/ Race/FL/PalmCoast/ WildBoarRunKidsTrailRace
THANK
Believing in Girls
Thank you to all of our sponsors and supporters for making this year’s annual Believing in Girls Breakfast such a huge success by surpassing our fundraising goal in support of our Girls.
Special recognition to the following sponsors:
FOR PRESENTING SPONSORS
ANONYMOUS
HOST SPONSORS
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” BRENT
Three FPC Soccer players sign
Jace Zecca is the fifth Flagler Palm Coast boys soccer player who will continue his soccer career in college next season. Zecca will play for the University of Fort Lauderdale. The others are Noah Daily (Trinity Baptist College), Felipe De Campos (Word of Life Bible Institute) and Jack Moberly and Evan Papadakos (both at Toccoa Falls College). Zecca, De Campos and Zecca signed national letters of intent on Tuesday, May 27, at a signing ceremony at FPC. Papadakos and Moberly signed earlier.
Mad Dogs championships, clinic
Mad Dogs Flag Football of Palm Coast will have playoff games at Ralph Carter Park on June 4, with championship night at Matanzas High School on June 7. Mad Dogs will partner with Matanzas football for a Football Youth Clinic on June 14, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Matanzas
FPC youth camp, flag league
The FPC Youth Football Camp for players entering third through eighth grade is scheduled for June 2-5, 8-11:30 a.m. The Bulldog Flag Football Leauge will be Tuesdays and Thursdays from June 2 to June 26, 6-9 p.m. The coed league is open to first through 12th graders. Cost for both the camp and league is $150. Register at flaglerpalmcoast touchdownclub.sportngin. com
Three-sport athlete Corinthians Watson won FPC’s Spirit of Flagler Award.
FPC’s state championship girls wrestling team was named Team of the Year at the Bulldogs’ Athletic Awards Show.
From left: Christina Borgmann, Juliana Mills, Alisha Vilar, Mariah Mills, Alexa Calidonio, Tiana Fries, Ana Vilar, Joslyn Johnson and FPC Principal Bobby Bossardet (missing, Kendall Bibla). Courtesy photos
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