Ormond Beach Observer 06-05-25 by Observer Local News

Milestone

BRIEFS

Ormond Beach Police search for suspect in armed assault

The Ormond Beach Police Department is searching for a suspect in an aggravated assault that took place last month on May 6 at a local restaurant at 1930 W. Granada Blvd.

Police report that the 25-year-old suspect, Anthony Rodriguez, brandished a firearm at restaurant staff, including a juvenile, during an altercation at around 9 p.m. No injuries were reported.

Rodriguez currently has a felony arrest warrant for four counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to a press release. Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers of North East Florida at 1-888-277-TIPS.

Commissioners also tabled an agreement with VCS to split the cost of the school resource officer at OBMS.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING

The Ormond Beach City Commission tabled an auto-renewal of a $1.9 million contract with Yellowstone Landscape at its meeting on Tuesday, June 3, with some commissioners expressing interest in putting it out for bid next year. The city has been utilizing the same contractor for its landscaping services since 2012. The contract with Yellowstone includes mowing and grounds maintenance services to over 375 sites in the city.

City Commissioner Travis Sargent pulled the contract from the consent agenda, saying that while Yellowstone “does a great job,” he had concerns with the packet the commission received. Namely, the inclusion of additional services approved last year, a map showing exact locations where the company services and other administrative updates.

“I would like to table this until those documents get in there,” Sargent said. “... This contract’s been in there since 2012. I think

it might be time to bid it out.”

Leisure Services Director Robert Carolin said that the contract the commission was given in the packet was the original one from 2012 because it has been an ongoing auto-renewal. If the commission decides not to renew it, the contract would expire on Oct. 1.

If the commission, however, does decide to go out for bid, staff would need time to prepare that, Carolin added.

Commissioner Lori Tolland suggested the commission look at bidding out the contract for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, and approve Yellowstone’s existing contract once the commission receives the updated information requested by Sargent.

“I agree that when you have a cost this big ... that sending it out is a smart thing because you might have a more competitive bid,” Tolland said.

SRO CONTRACT ON HOLD

Sargent also pulled an agreement between the city and the Volusia County School Board for shared funding for a school resource officer position at Ormond Beach Middle School. The agreement dictates that the city and School Board split the cost of the officer’s salary and benefits equally.

“I sent the School Board an email asking how many other municipalities fund with a 50/50 match, and I haven’t received an

answer,” Sargent said. “I am not for funding this. I think this is something School Board needs to fund.”

According to a staff report, the city established an agreement with Volusia County Schools in 2017 using a grant that provided funding for three years. After grant funding expired, the city and VCS agreed to split the costs. The city’s share is a little over $27,000.

The school district does have other 50/50 cost share agreements for SROs with other cities: DeLand for two SROs, Daytona Beach for 11 SROs and South Daytona for one SRO.

Additionally, the district has an agreement with the Volusia Sheriff’s Office where VCS pays 55% of the cost for deputies.

City Manager Joyce Shanahan said having an SRO at OBMS is a great outreach opportunity for the Ormond Beach Police Department.

“It provides a valuable service to the children and they provide a valuable service to the community,” Shanahan said. “So if they weren’t willing to fund it, then I think our children would lose out on the opportunity to build a relationship with the Ormond Beach Police Department officers.”

Sargent said he agreed.

“But I’m not willing to have the taxpayers continue this,” he said.

Seabreeze teacher Tanya Wilhelm (second from left) gets hugs from her students before the graduation ceremony at the Ocean Center on

May 30. Photo by Michele Meyers

Flagler’s half-cent sales tax on hold as staff is told to form alternate plan

County staff will present beach funding options that don’t include a sales tax, but may include program, personnel cuts.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

Five days after saying she would support a half-cent sales tax, Flagler County Commissioner Kim Carney has changed her stance again, now asking county staff to bring forth a new beach management funding plan for the county’s 18 miles of coastline — and one that doesn’t include a half-cent sales tax at all.

Carney asked the board for consensus at its meeting on Monday, June 2, to have staff put together a workshop dedicated to the beach, with an educational component presented by “subject matter experts,” including the county’s consultant on the issue.

“To force me into a bad decision on a half-cent sales tax with no other options provided to me is not going to work,” Carney said.

The proposed funding plan for the beach involving the sales tax was put together with a prior commission, she said, “who then spent their money on everything else except the beach.” She said she would not support any plan that doesn’t include the entire 18 miles of beach, because it would put the county’s federal funding at risk for ongoing beach restoration efforts.

“We want more discussion, more options, more funding

alternatives, and that is what’s being kicked down the road,” Carney said. “Not a decision.”

At the board’s workshop on May 28, Carney reluctantly said she would support a halfcent sales tax if that was the only way to proceed with the Reach II project, the second phase of beach restoration from North Seventh Street to Varn Park in Flagler Beach.

The commission was given three options to fund the beach by County Administrator Heidi Petito: A $114 million beach management plan for its entire coastline which included a half-cent sales tax, a plan for just the unincorporated (the northern 10 miles) and doing nothing.

To maintain all 18 miles, the county will need $12 million in recurring funds a year.

A plan for the unincorporated area would still require additional revenue, but county staff proposed that come in the form of a Municipal Services Benefit Unit, or a special assessment, for parcels in the northern 10 miles. This could cost homeowners in that section between $300 to $2,000.

Additionally, an unincorporated plan would need a large share of the county’s existing half-cent sales tax, which would reduce funding for roads, stormwater and other capital improvements.

At the board’s meeting on Monday, Commissioner Greg Hansen said that, if they’re asking staff to come up with funding options, then they as policy makers have to give them guidance.

“For instance, we have to

tell her to cut personnel and cut jobs, if that gets us to the number,” Hansen said. “... She (Petito) can’t do anything unless we as a group give her some policies that she can use to make reductions. She can’t arbitrarily cut programs.”

Cutting programs and personnel is what the county will need to do to find $12 million in recurring costs to maintain the beach, he said.

Options for revenue, debt and bonds to fund the beach should be included in what is presented to the board, Carney said.

Commissioner Pam Richardson suggested the county also take dollars from other programs and county funds for the beach, but Hansen, who was not in favor of pausing the half-cent sales tax effort, reminded her that is not allowed by law.

“Alright, so Greg, do you see the confusion?” Carney interjected. “Are you willing to work with us on helping us understand what our limits are?”

“I am,” Hansen said.

“If it’s illegal, then we educate them,” replied Commission Chair Andy Dance.

However, Dance said he took offense that Richardson assumed past commissions have not been good stewards of the county’s funds.

“There’s a chasm that education can fill here,” he said, after some back and forth with Richardson on what her comments implied. “I don’t have any problem with that at all, if this is a pause, and it takes us some time to do that.”

To maintain its beach, the county will need $12 million in recurring funds a year.

United Way honors philanthropists

Larry and Andrea Frank, of Ormond Beach, reach $1 million contribution milestone for local nonprofits.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

One million dollars over five years.

That’s how much Ormond Beach philanthropists Larry and Andrew Frank have contributed to the community, through championing endowments, grant awards and donations to local causes.

In honor of their investment into the community, the Community Foundation and United Way of VoluusiaFlagler Counties inducted the Franks on Wednesday, May 28, at Temple Beth-El, as the newest members of the 1941 Society, the local collection of Million Dollar Roundtable members. Only one other local couple, Preston and Lynn Root, have been inducted in the past.

Larry Frank said he and Andrea felt overwhelmed about the recognition. They hadn’t heard about the Million Dollar Roundtable until the Roots were inducted last year.

“Andrea and I were just blown away,” Larry said. “It was just the nicest thing that’s ever been done for me.”

The Million Dollar Roundtable is a nationwide collective that honors families and individuals whose cumulative philanthropic investment exceeds $1 million, according to a press release from the Community Foundation and United Way.

Over the past five years, the Franks have awarded over $980,000 in more than 90 grants through their donor-

advised fund, as well as contributed financially to local causes including food insecurity, housing, health care, education and crisis relief.

“They are two of the most generous, kind, and visionary philanthropists I have ever worked with,” said Courtney Edgcomb, president and CEO of the Community Foundation and United Way of VolusiaFlagler in the press release.

“Their passion is infectious, their leadership is inspiring, and their commitment to the well-being of others will impact lives for generations to come.”

Larry said he believes United Way and the Community Foundation is the most efficient and productive way to support local nonprofits. He and his wife try to find 501c3 organizations that serve families in need, and whose operations can be scaled to serve more families or replicated in other neighborhoods.

As federal and state grants dwindle, Larry said alternative sources of revenue must be fond for nonprofits, and as such, they try to find areas of revenue that appeal to and attract new donors, encouraging endowments and legacy

giving.

“The real story is the work of the Community Foundation which attracts donors by offering services that appeal to donors,” he said. “These services aren’t just for donors with great wealth. They are for donors that may make charitable donations of $10,000 or more over a period of 3-5 years.”

Teresa Smith, executive director and founder of Volusia County Women Who Care, said in the press release that the Franks “exemplify what it means to lead with generosity and heart.”

“Their inclusion in the Million Dollar Roundtable is a well-deserved recognition of a lifetime of giving that has uplifted countless lives across our community,” Smith said. Giving back, Larry said, is “just the right thing to do” if you have the ability. And, if he can get others to collaborate on the effort, that’s an added incentive.

“I know I can’t solve every problem and help every family,” Larry said. “But whatever resources I have, I want them to go as far as possible.” To learn more, visit foundation.unitedwayvfc.org.

Andrea and Larry Frank are inducted by Preston Root, a member of the Million Dollar Roundtable. Photo courtesy of the Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties

Are Palm Coast’s circumstances

Palm Coast City Council votes to raise two impact fees, but will revisit a third.

SIERRA WILLIAMS

STAFF WRITER

With Palm Coast’s population growing at twice the rate of the state, and construction costs increasing 80%, the Palm Coast City Council is moving forward with raising two impact fees at “extraordinary” levels.

At the June 3 council meeting, the council unanimously approved the first of two votes raising the fire service and parks and recreation fees while the transportation fees were sent back for more revisions.

Impact fees are the fees developers pay to a municipality that are intended to help the city mitigate the impact of new growth on city services.

Florida law prohibits increasing impact fees by more than 50% of the current rate, and cities can only approve such increases every four years; increases must be phased in over a two- to fouryear period. But the state statute does

Flagler sheriff’s chief of staff to join Palm Coast temporarily

The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office will be loaning Chief of Staff Mark Strobridge to Palm Coast to fill in as a temporary assistant city manager.

The Palm Coast City Council approved in a 4-1 vote a three-month interlocal agreement with the FCSO for $22,699 per month. The money, paid out of the City Manager personnel budget, is paid to the FCSO, not Strobridge, for Strobridge’s services.

Acting City Manager Lauren Johnston said the city is not fully staffed, with three major positions having been sitting empty for months: the utility director position, the assistant city manager position and the community vdevelopment director. The utility director position, she said, is especially important to fill as soon as possible and help maintain city priorities.

“Chief Strobridge offers many years in local government experience,” Johnston said. “He’s a great judge of character. He can help us with that process.”

There were concerns from residents that a member of the FCSO leadership would be filling the position as the city is going through its own budgeting process. The contract, however, outlines that Strobridge

provide an exception, if a municipality proves there are “extraordinary circumstances.”

Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri said it is the council’s job to make sure its position is legally defensible if the council is going to increase the impact fees at such high rates.

“We have to make sure that we are buttoned up every which way to Sunday on this,” she said. “And I just don’t think we’re there yet.”

Three studies commissioned by the council on each impact fee state that a combination of Palm Coast’s rapid growth and extreme inflation rates qualify Palm Coast for extraordinary circumstances needed to bypass the statutory cap on increasing impact fees.

Over the next 25 years, Palm Coast is projected to grow by 49%, which is more than double Florida’s projected growth rate of 22%. Meanwhile, building costs have increased 80% since 2018, according to the studies.

The changes under extraordinary circumstances have to be approved in two supermajority votes for each impact fee. The fire service and parks and recreation fees will have their final vote on June 17.

will have “no oversight or involvement with city budget as it relates to or pertains to the city of Palm Coast contracted services with Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.”

Mayor Mike Norris was the sole vote against the contract. He said his issue was not with Strobridge specifically coming in, but instead that the city was in this position because the council had not chosen a new city manager in April. Norris has stated multiple times in his tenure as mayor that he did not trust Johnston and wanted to see her out of the position.

“This is tragic and an embarrassment,” Norris said of the contract. Norris said he was also upset that he found out about the contract through the online news service FlaglerLive, which first wrote about Strobridge’s contract on June 2. Communications Director Brittany Kershaw told the Observer that the item was a last-minute addition to the meeting.

‘extraordinary’

enough to double fees?

Below are the details of each impact fee as discussed in the June 3 meeting:

TRANSPORTATION IMPACT

FEE VOTE TABLED

The City Council decided to table the vote on the transportation impact fees as the council requested more changes to the calculations.

On May 27, the council made several changes to the presented calculations, including removing U.S. 1 from the maintenance and capacity portion of the data as that road is maintained by the Department of Transportation.

One of the changes made at the workshop was to introduce a tiered rate for single family residential units. This was done to protect the firsttime homebuyers and essential workers like teachers and first responders from being priced out of the housing market.

“One of my biggest concerns is a new couple getting started out in life or a new individual getting started out in life and the housing affordability,” Council member Charles Gambaro said.

Jonathan Paul of NUE Urban Concepts — the firm that conducted the transportation impact fee study — introduced a tier system that split the houses in two categories: above and below 2,000 square feet, where the larger house size paid more in fees.

The initial study recommended the single family residential unit rate increase 137% from the current rate of $3,502. The two-tier system presented would instead increase the fee for homes greater than 2,000 square feet to $6,082 and for homes less than 2,000 square feet to $4,643.

But the council felt that this did not go far enough. Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri said 2,000 seemed large for a starter home.

Paul suggested that, instead of choosing an arbitrary number to split the tier at, the city increases the fees in increments based on the house size. This would allow the homebuyer to decide and stay within their budget, Paul said.

The council also made other amendments to the calculations. It was requested to remove the section of State Road 100 from Old Kings to Colbert Lane from the cal -

WILL RAISING IMPACT FEES INCREASE PROPERTY TAXES FOR CURRENT RESIDENTS? SOME SAY ‘YES.’

Raising Palm Coast’s transportation, fire service and parks and recreation impact fees will likely directly affect new homebuyers in the city. But will it also impact current homeowners and their property taxes?

Former Florida Rep. Paul Renner says yes, it will. “It’s not a very efficient way to raise money,” Renner said.

The impact of impact fee increases on the Palm Coast community was debated on a special “Free For All” talk show on WNZF Radio on June 2. Hosted by David Ayres and Observer Publisher Brian McMillan, the show featured Renner, Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri; Annamaria Long, executive officer at the Flagler Home Builders Association; Robbie Barrick, owner of Integrity Homes and FHBA president; and real estate agent Toby Tobin.

Impact fees are the fees developers pay to a municipality that are intended to help the city mitigate the impact of new growth on city services. The fee, according to Florida State Statutes, can only be increased a maximum of 50% over a four-year period, once every four years.

Renner said “dollar for dollar,” impact fees are passed on to the new homeowners, “artificially” increasing the property’s cost. That higher home value then likewise will increase the property assessments of surrounding homes, eventually leading to current homeowners paying

culations, as well as decreasing the anticipated funding again, as the city has removed the bulk of state-maintained projects from consideration in the study.

Because of the substantial changes made, the calculations will be presented again to the council at the June 10 workshop meeting.

FIRE SERVICES IMPACT FEES TO INCREASE 117%

During the previous workshop meeting, the council only spotted one area that needed change to the fire services fee: There was an error in the calculations that included grant funding from the American Rescue Plan Act.

“Essentially what happened is the ARPA funds were counted twice,” Raftelis representative Sean Ocasio said. Raftelis conducted the studies for both the fire service and parks and recreation fees.

The corrected calculations changed the percentage increases from a 98% increase per residential unit to 117%, and from an 95% increase

Tomoka Reserve developers to build fence around former golf course

Residents of Tomoka Oaks are calling the move by developers ‘spiteful.’

JARLEENE ALMENAS

MANAGING EDITOR

The developers of Tomoka Reserve, the proposed subdivision on the former Tomoka Oaks golf course, have received a permit from the city of Ormond Beach. Not to build, but to put up a 6-foot fence around the perimeter of their property.

The fence, according to city documents, will span about 17,000 square feet and cost Triumph Oaks of Ormond Beach I LLC, about $300,000. It’s a move that some resi-

dents say is happening out of “spite,” as the developers’ rezoning request to be able to construct 300 homes on the golf course was denied last year, and the issue continues to be tied in two lawsuits with the city, one of which is at the federal level.

“It just seems absolutely unnecessary from so many different points of view,” Tomoka Oaks citizen Tom Fitzgibbon said. “It’s 17,000 feet of 6-foot-high chain link fence, and it just seems like, ‘Why bother other than just to irritate everyone involved?’”

The city granted a permit for the construction of a fence on May 13. Via email, attorney Karl Sanders, who represents the developers, said the fence will be erected for safety. “The city has, in fact, issued

a permit to my client for constructing a fence around the perimeter of their property,” Sanders said. “This will help secure and protect it from those who may be under the mistaken impression that they are welcome to trespass upon private property, as well as to mitigate the liability exposure associated with such actions.”

The fence didn’t need to go before the City Commission for approval, as the permit is an administrative review. There is also no public input process for these kinds of permits. Per city standards, the fence will need to be placed at least 6 feet, but no more than 50 feet, away from the property line. It can’t be any taller than 6 feet and must be either a green or black vinyl coated chainlink

fence.

The developers — Carl Velie, Ray Barshay, Sheldon Rubin — purchased the 147-acre property in April 2021. Since then, the former clubhouse building has been demolished, leaving only vacant land and trees.

This property hasn’t ever had a fence, said Fitzgibbon, who serves on the community’s homeowner’s association and lives on a home bordering the golf course. Everything’s been fine without one.

“And just because Mr. Rubin cannot put in his 300 houses, he’s putting up a spite fence, just to make everybody uncomfortable and show them who’s boss,” Fitzgibbon said.

Because both lawsuits over the development are still early in the litigation pro -

cess, Tomoka Oaks resident and former real estate law attorney Jim Rose said he was surprised to see the developers were getting a permit for a fence.

“Obviously, people are upset about it because it would spoil the view of folks there,” Rose said. “But, we know that the developer has the right to do it. We’re just more puzzled on why you would do it.”

Generally, fences are erected for security during construction, Rose said, though he said the developers have experienced some homeowners encroaching upon their land with benches and other outdoor furniture and decorations.

“It seems a bit spiteful to us, frankly,” Rose said. “Until you know you’re actually going to

build something, why are you going to build a construction fence?”

Fitzgibbon, who worries about the negative impacts a fence may have on local wildlife, said that instead of building a fence, he’d encourage the developers to continue trying to envision a development that will work for all parties involved — the developers, the city and the existing homeowners of Tomoka Oaks.

“I don’t think it’s going to accomplish much, other than making people more angry,” he said about the fence. “... One thing we always suggested to the developer is to build fewer houses, but more expensive houses, and I think that might be a good solution for everybody.”

New homes are planned in the Somerset neighborhood west of U.S. 1, in Palm Coast. Photo by Brian McMillan

Mark Strobridge. Courtesy photo

Ormond student earns AA degree at 14

At just 14 years old, Imronbek Kadirbek, has graduated from Daytona State College.

ABBIE PACE

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

At just 14 years old, Imronbek Kadirbek of Ormond Beach has earned his Associate of Arts degree from Daytona State College, graduating on Tuesday, May 13. His milestone comes before he has even received his learner’s permit.

Recognized with high honors and inducted into Phi Theta Kappa for his exceptional academic performance, Imronbek is now working toward completing his bachelor’s degree by age 15, with plans to apply to medical school shortly thereafter. He has already been accepted into Daytona State College’s Bachelor of Applied Science program and began classes on Tuesday, May 20.

His achievement, made possible through Florida’s dual enrollment program, is the result of academic focus, disciplined planning, and strong family support.

Imronbek’s educational path is far from conventional. Inspired by his parents’ careers in medicine— his mother, Nargiza Ayupova, is a Doctor of Nursing Practice, and his father, Jasurbek Kadirbekov, is a neurosurgeon in Uzbekistan — he chose to bypass traditional high school and begin college-level coursework as early as possible.

“I didn’t want to wait around,” he said of his decision to fast-track his education. He graduated from Imag -

ine School at Town Center in Palm Coast in May 2024. His 10-year-old sister, Jasmina Kadirbek, currently attends the same school and is already setting high goals of her own.

While viewing her brother’s AA degree, Jasmina joked, ‘That’s cute — I’m aiming for a PhD,’” their mother recalled.

Imronbek’s older sister, Aziza Kadirbek, also played a guiding role in his academic path. She earned her associate degree at age 16 and helped him navigate the intricacies of college course selection and planning.

Currently pursuing a biomedical sciences track, Imronbek has completed rigorous college coursework in chemistry, biology, physics, trigonometry, and statistics.

Maintaining a 4.0 GPA, he is preparing to take the Medical College Admission Test and is considering medical schools in Florida, particularly near the Orlando area. He credits much of his academic progress to his academic advisor at Daytona State College, Mark Nabors, who helped him build a strong foundation and make the most of the dual enrollment program.

From early college coursework to martial arts and Quranic memorization,

Imronbek’s life is defined by purpose, structure and faith.

Time management and personal discipline have been key to his success. Imronbek follows the Pomodoro study method, using focused 30-minute sessions followed by short breaks. His daily schedule includes academic work, physical training, and spiritual practice.

Practicing Islam is an integral part of his daily routine. As a devoted member of the Islamic Center in Bunnell, he performs five daily prayers, even while on campus.

“Whenever I have class and there’s a prayer time, I come early, get my prayer mat, pray, and then go to class,” he said.

His sister Aziza fondly refers to him as “Sheikh Imran” in their community, recognizing his commitment to memorizing chapters of the Quran and staying connected to his faith.

Outside the classroom, Imronbek continues to demonstrate discipline and drive. He holds a second-degree black belt in Taekwondo, having trained since age four, and has recently transitioned to practicing Muay Thai.

“The higher the dan, the harder the test,” Aziza said. “You’re breaking bricks, sparring, and testing at the federation level.”

He also runs a small car washing business, earning approximately $500 per month. He plans to launch a website to expand his client base. In addition to his academic and entrepreneurial efforts, Imronbek volunteers regularly at his local mosque, continuing a family tradition of community involvement.

“He’s not just studying. He’s building a foundation for a meaningful career that can help others,” said Ayupova, his mother.

Ormond recognizes Leslie, Tolland and Shanahan as ‘Home Rule Heroes’

Mayor Jason Leslie, Deputy Mayor Lori Tolland and City Manager Joyce Shanahan honored at recent meeting.

OBSERVER STAFF

The Florida League of Cities recently recognized three Ormond Beach city officials — Ormond Beach Mayor Jason Leslie, Deputy Mayor Lori Tolland and City Manager Joyce Shanahan — with a 2025 Home Rule Hero Award for their hard work and advocacy efforts during the 2025 Legislative Session.

Daytona Beach Shores Mayor Nancy Miller, on behalf of the League, honored Leslie, Tolland and Shanahan for their efforts throughout the session during the Ormond

Beach City Commission meeting on Tuesday, June 3.

She presented Tolland and Shanahan with their awards; Leslie had received his award last month.

“I’m proud to share this milestone with my fellow city leaders, staff, and residents who continue to advocate for the values that make Ormond Beach a special place,” Tolland said in a city press release.

“We’ve stood firm against aspects of the Live Local Act that undermine our city’s unique character and local decision-making. At the same time, we’ve fought to preserve our Community Redevelopment Act, which has been instrumental in revitalizing neighborhoods and supporting our economic growth. Home Rule matters, and as someone proud to call Ormond Beach home, I’ll continue to protect it.”

Home Rule, the press release states, is the “ability for a city

to address local problems with local solutions with minimal state interference.” Award recipients are local government officials, both elected and nonelected, who consistently responded to the Florida League and helped to share local perspectives on an issue.

“It is an honor to receive this award,” Leslie said in the press release. “Home Rule represents more than just local control. It reflects the belief that the people who live in a community understand its needs better than anyone else. In Ormond Beach, we take that responsibility seriously. We are not waiting for one-size-fits-all solutions. We are building thoughtful policies, protecting our neighborhoods, and standing up for the unique character that draws people here in the first place. Preserving local decision-making means preserving what makes our city thrive.”

Imronbek Kadirbek. Courtesy photo

Ormond Beach Deputy Mayor Lori Tolland, Ormond Beach Mayor Jason Leslie, Daytona Beach Shores Mayor Nancy Miller and Ormond Beach City Manager Joyce Shanahan. Photo courtesy of the City of Ormond Beach

BEST ADVICE I EVER GOT

‘When you have an education, you have options.’

What’s the best advice you ever got?

For Ormond Beach’s Wendy Mara, who now has her own law practice with four offices, it all began with her parents, who taught her: “When you have an education, you have options.”

When she was in high school, Mara loved studying foreign languages. Math? Not so much. But her parents encouraged her to do well in every class, not just her favorites. It paid off when, after a career as a high school teacher, she decided she wanted to go back to school and get her master of business administration degree. Then, while doing her MBA studies, she took a business law class, and she enjoyed it so much that she decided to go to law school. Meanwhile, her family was growing. The youngest of her four children was 19 years old, and then Mara discovered she was pregnant with No. 5, just as she was about to begin her new career as an attorney. So,

BIZ BUZZ

Phenix Salon Suites celebrates ribbon-cutting Phenix Salon Suites celebrated the ribbon-cutting of its newest location in Ormond Beach on Thursday, May 29. The salon suites, located inside The Trails Shopping Center at 266 N. Nova Road, is owned and operated by Tina and Paul Peck, according to a press release. It opened in October 2024 and it’s a salon suite franchise concept for lifestyle professionals.

Tina has a background in early childhood education and marketing, and Paul is a partner

she decided to work for herself, practicing guardianship and family law. (Mara’s husband, Robert, is a former attorney who now works for Holland Financial.)

With her Roman Catholic faith as her guide, Wendy Mara was inspired as an MBA student by the concept of “servant leadership.” She takes an interest in their personal successes — including their own education. In that way, she is passing along

in a financial planning and investment firm. Tina oversees day-to-day operations and marketing, working closely with site manager Dora Kareem.

“We chose Phenix Salon Suites after I was inspired by the founder, Gina Rivera’s story, and her mission to create empowering spaces for entrepreneurs in the beauty space,” said Tina Peck in the press release. “I have a deep respect for the artistic nature of lifestyle professionals and wanted to offer them an opportunity to thrive in a safe, stylish environment where they can take pride in their work. With Phenix, we’re proud to provide that opportunity and support entrepreneurs in building their own businesses.”

her parents’ advice to her staff.

“Even if that means they go off and do something different and go someplace else — that’s their journey,” Wendy Mara said. “I would hate to lose somebody working with me, but if that’s what’s best for that particular person, then that’s what it’s got to be.”

Visit https://www.maralawpa. com/ or call 386-672-8081.

—BRIAN MCMILLLAN

Serving Ormond Beach and the surrounding Volusia County community, the new Phenix Salon Suites offers private, fully equipped suites for independent lifestyle professionals. The company now includes over 45 locations throughout the state.

“We’re proud to welcome Tina and Paul to the Phenix family and continue our strong momentum in Florida,” said Brian Kelley, president and CEO of Phenix Salon Suites. “Their passion for supporting entrepreneurs is exactly what makes our model so successful. Each new location creates opportunities for lifestyle professionals to launch their own business and thrive in a space designed for their success.”

Wendy Mara. Courtesy photo

BRIEFS

Bunnell History Day:

Historical reenactors, art, food, music

In celebration of the City of Bunnell’s history and heritage, Bunnell History Day on Saturday, June 7, will feature a kids’ zone, vendors, mechanical bull rides, antique car show, wine/ beer tent and food trucks.

You will meet reenactors who represent 200 years of history. You’ll listen to vetted lecturers presenting topics such as voting rights, slavery and music history. You’ll see an art gallery, an art auction and the unveiling of an original J.J. Graham artwork depicting Bunnell.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Two lectures will be presented at the Carver Center and one will be held in the Methodist Church sanctuary.

To view the schedule and find out more about the speakers and activities, visit flaglercountyhistorical society.com/ or call 386-437-0600.

Self-serve sandbags

now available at the City of Ormond Beach

Hurricane season officially began on Sunday, June 1, and self-serve sand-

COPS CORNER

MAY 23

DEFENSE MODE

2:29 a.m. — 800 block of Peninsula Drive, Ormond Beach

Resist an officer without violence

Police arrested a 20-year-old Ormond Beach man who told an officer he “would get shot” if he kicked his dog. Police responded to the residence in reference to a fight. Upon seeing officers, the man went inside the home and locked himself in, and the other involved parties, alongside the reporting officer, stood at the front door trying to get him to come out. After a few minutes, the man came out and tried to walk with the office

bags are now available in the City of Ormond Beach.

Residents wishing to prepare in advance for any possible storms can visit the Nova Community Center, at 440 N. Nova Road, daily during office hours to receive up to 10 complimentary fillable bags, according to the city website.

The office hours are:

• 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday • 1-5:30 p.m. Sunday

To receive the bags, residents mush show their ID. They must also bring a shovel and be able to fill and load the bags into their vehicles.

Residents with special needs can request delivery of sandbags to their homes if they are unable to fill sandbags, or unload them from their vehicles. Fill out a form at https:// www.ormondbeach.org/sandbags or call the Public Works Department at 386-676-3220 or 386-676-3230.

Palm Coast man accused of choking, killing his dog

A 55-year-old Palm Coast man was arrested Thursday on an aggravated animal cruelty charge after he choked his dog to death in January.

According to an arrest report by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy responded to Howard Blair’s home in the W section on Jan. 24, after receiving a call about an animal problem. Once there, the deputy spoke with Blair’s wife, who informed the deputy that she was leaving her husband.

Upon speaking with Blair, the deputy discovered that he had killed their 15-month-old American bulldog and Labrador retriever, named Nutmeg, after she injured one of their teacup Chihuahua. Blair admitted to choking the dog the night before, and later burying her in the

when a small dog began following them. The officer, according to the report, personally knows the dog has bitten people in the past and noted the dog was “exhibiting aggressive behaviors.” In an effort to scare the dog, the officer stomped in the dog’s direction, at which point the man asked if he would kick the dog.

The officer told him he would — if he had to, due to aggressive behavior. That’s when the man told him “you’re gonna get shot,” and the officer informed him he would be placed in handcuffs. The man pulled away and tripped over a large flower pot. He was taken to jail.

MAY 27

ART IN THE PARK

12:32 p.m. — 800 block of Grandview Avenue, Daytona Beach Criminal mischief. A 52-year-old Ormond Beach man was arrested af-

backyard. This was corroborated by the man’s wife, who told the deputy that she was getting ready to leave to the emergency vet with the teacup Chihuahua when Blair told her he had killed Nutmeg. Charges were forwarded to the State Attorney’s Office.

Deputies obtained a warrant for Blair’s arrest on May 27, arresting him on May 29. He was released on a $2,500 bond.

Flagler commander graduates from 2025 state academy

A Flagler County Sheriff’s Office commander was among 39 graduates to complete the Florida Sheriffs Association’s Commonders Academy on May 23.

FCSO’s Special Operations Cmdr. Jonathan Dopp has working at the FCSO since 2006. He transferred to the Investigative Services Division as a detective in 2014 and in 2018, transferred to the Problem Area Crime Enforcement Unit as a sergeant. In 2021, he was promoted to commander of the Special Operations Unit, and in 2024, he received the Specialty Service Award.

Flagler’s Varn Park closes for 8 weeks of dune restoration

Varn Park will be closed for about eight weeks beginning on June 3, for emergency dune restoration between the park and Jungle Hut Road.

Sand placement will begin on June 10. For additional information, go to: https://www.flaglercounty.gov/ County-Services/Public-Works/Engineering.

70 Volusia locations to help feed children in need this summer

Seventy different locations across Volusia County will be participating in the Volusia County Summer Food Service Program feeding hungry children, including five Ormond Beach locations.

The program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, provides nutritional breakfasts and lunches to children and teens under 18 while school is out, a Volusia County press release said. The program lasts through Aug. 8.

The program has no income restrictions and parents do not need to apply or register for children to receive meals, the press release said. Meals will be served Monday through Friday unless otherwise indicated and all sites will be closed on July 4 for Independence Day.

Volusia County Schools will also administer the program at participating public schools, the press release said. The following locations are the participating Ormond Beach sites:

• Calvary Christian Academy, 1681 W. Granada Blvd. (June 2 through July 18; closed June 19 and July 4)

Breakfast: 8 to 9:30 a.m.; lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

• Nova Community Center, 440 N. Nova Road (June 23 through Aug. 1)

ter he was found writing on a park’s dog statue with colored markers.

When the reporting officer arrived, the man was instructed to stop writing on the statue, to which the man, who was shirtless, said “he was just trying to make it look better,” and that he’d gotten permission to do so from an unknown woman, according to his arrest report.

The man had drawn multiple polka dots on the body of the dog statue and colored around the nose, ears and eyes. The officer noted it would cost less than $200 to restore the statue to its original condition. He was taken to jail.

MAY 28

STRIKE TOW

1:46 a.m. — 800 block of Palm Coast Parkway, Palm Coast Battery A 30-year-old Daytona Beach man was arrested after he

Breakfast: 9 to 10 a.m.; lunch: noon to 1 p.m.

• Ormond Beach Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St. (June 2 through Aug. 8) Breakfast: 9 to 10 a.m.; lunch: noon to 1 p.m.

• South Ormond Neighborhood Center, 176 Division Ave. (June 9 through July 31) Breakfast: 9 to 10 a.m.; lunch: noon to 1 p.m.

• YMCA Ormond Beach, 500 Sterthaus Drive (June 2 through Aug. 8) Breakfast: 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.; lunch: noon to 1:30 p.m.

Bunnell man charged with video voyeurism, Bunnell Police say

A Bunnell man is facing a felony video voyeurism charge after he placed hidden cameras in the private areas of a home, according to the Bunnell Police Department. Jonathan Bernard Mahan, 26, turned himself into the BPD on June 3. In February, a resident of the home called and told BPD officers they found two hidden video cameras that had been placed without their knowledge or consent.

In an interview, the suspect admitted to detectives he placed the surveillance equipment to “monitor the private activities of household members, including one minor,” the press release said.

BPD detectives received search warrants for two residences and seized digital evidence and surveillance equipment and found video evidence on the equipment.

Mahan was charged with one count each of video voyeurism and unlawful use of a two-way communication device, both felony offenses under Florida law.

Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the Bunnell Police Department at (386) 4377508.

punched his tow truck driver, and subsequently chased him through a local gas station parking lot. When apprehended by deputies, the man gave them a false name. Deputies later discovered he was out on bond from a prior battery arrest out of Daytona Beach, which took place two days before. He was taken to jail.

MAY 31

RESOURCE GUARDING

11:37 p.m. — 1900 block of Guava Lane, Bunnell Aggravated assault Deputies arrested two people after they pointed weapons at a 56-year-old Bunnell man who was trying to get a gallon of water from a common area in their mobile home/camper community.

When deputies arrived, they spoke with one of the suspects, a 39-year-

old Bunnell woman, who appeared to be upset and was “severely hyperventilating,” according to her arrest report. While she was being evaluated by paramedics, the woman’s husband showed deputies a video of the incident, taken by her, showing her yelling at the victim and blocking him from entering the common area. The woman then pulls out a handgun and points it at the victim.

The video then shows another tenant, a 62-year-old man, pull out a dart firing stun gun and point it at the man’s face.

The victim backed away and went back to his camper. He wished to press charges.

The deputy noted that the main building in the community provides a common area for tenants to use for necessities including food, water and toiletries. Both suspects were taken to jail.

FCSO. Special Operations Cmdr.

Jonathan Dopp graduated from the FSA Commanders Academy in May. Courtesy of FCSO

REAL ESTATE

A house in Palm Harbor tops sales list in Flagler

Ahouse at 74 Old Oak Drive South, in Palm Harbor, was the top real estate transaction for May 17-23 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The house sold on May 19, for $1,914,345. Built in 2007, the house is a 4/4.5 and has an outdoor kitchen, a fireplace, a pool, a hot tub, a boat dock, a boat lift, a boat house and 4,650 square feet.

ALEXIS MILLER

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Condos

A condo at 46 Club House Drive, Unit 102, sold on May 23, for $193,000. Built in 1977, the condo is a 2/2 and has 986 square feet. It sold in 1981 for $51,000.

A condo at 80 Surfview Drive, Unit 302, sold on May 21, for $465,000. Built in 2003, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,455 square feet. It sold in 2003 for $334,900.

BUNNELL

Grand Reserve

A house at 75 Birdie Way sold on May 23, for $360,000. Built in 2021, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,799 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $304,000.

FLAGLER BEACH

River View Point

A house at 608 River View Road sold on May 20, for $1,000,000. Built in 1998, the house is a 5/4.5 and has a private boat dock, a boat

house, a pool and 3,300 square feet. It sold in 2013 for $649,000.

PALM COAST

Cypress Knoll

A house at 180 Eric Drive, sold on May 23 for $620,000. Built in 1993, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a pool, a fireplace and 2,265 square feet.

A house at 74 Esperanto Drive sold on May 23, for $290,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,636 square feet. It sold in 2003 for $129,000.

A house at 28 Eagle Crest Path sold on May 23, for $505,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool and 2,348 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $485,000.

Grand Haven

A house at 31 Southlake Drive sold on May 23, for $575,000. Built in 2006, the house is a 2/2 and has a hot tub and 2,204 square feet.

Ormond’s top sale is a house on Beach Street

Ahouse with views of the Halifax River at 420 S. Beach St. was the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormondby-the-Sea for the week of May 10-16. The house sold on May 16, for $780,000. Built in 1950, the house is a 5/4 and has a fireplace, a pool, an outdoor kitchen and 2,679 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $625,000.

JARLEENE ALMENAS

MANAGING EDITOR

Condos

The condo at 799 Sterthaus Drive, Unit 403, sold on May 12, for $352,500. Built in 2020, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,256 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $326,900.

The condo at 1926 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 204, sold on May 12, for $287,500. Built in 1974, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,165 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $225,000.

The condo at 855 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 115, sold on May 15, for $220,000. Built in 1970, the condo is a 1/1 and has 510 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $255,000.

The condo at 203 S. Orchard St., Unit 14C, sold on May 16, for $210,000. Built in 1985, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,083 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $140,000.

Indian Trails A house at 209 Birchwood Drive sold on May 23, for $355,000. Built in 1994, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a boat dock and 1,952 square feet. It sold in 2001 for $150,000.

Palm Harbor A house at 18 Old Oak Drive North sold on May 19, for $1,200,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 4/4 and has a pool, a hot tub, an outdoor kitchen, a fireplace, a boat dock and 3,420 square feet. It sold in 2015 for $720,000.

Pine Lakes A house at 29 Wood Cedar Drive sold on May 23, for $555,000. Built in 2001, the house is a 5/2.5 and has a pool, a fireplace and 2,236 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $379,500.

A house at 8 White Haven Lane sold on May 23, for $290,000. Built in 2006, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,917 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $259,900.

Seminole Woods A house at 13 Utide Court sold on May 22, for $500,000. Built in 2022, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,832 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $400,900.

A house at 13 Smoke Tree Place,sold on May 23, for $375,000. Built in 2019, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,990 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $242,500.

Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report.

$325,000. Built in 1957, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,257 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $250,500.

Ortona Park

The house at 56 Kent Drive sold on May 15, for $524,000. Built in 1964, the house is a 3/3 and has a fireplace and 2,285 square feet. It last sold in 1990 for $80,000.

The house at 815 Marvin Road sold on May 15, for $441,000. Built in 1964, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,544 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $203,000.

Riviera Oaks

ORMOND BEACH Fountain View

The house at 1325 Morning Walk Drive sold on May 13, for $329,990. Built in 2024, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,672 square feet.

Ocean Crest

The house at 54 Ocean Crest Drive sold on May 15, for $467,500. Built in 1978, the house is a 3/3 and has a fireplace and 1,608 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $412,900.

Ormond Lakes The house at 32 Stoney Ridge Lane sold on May 15, for $389,000. Built in 2001, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,074 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $320,000.

Ormond Terrace

The condo at 453 S. Atlantic Ave., Unit 3050, sold on May 15, for $159,000. Built in 1987, the condo is a studio with one bathroom and 297 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $155,000.

The house at 509 Mcintosh Road sold on May 14, for

The house at 3 Castle Manor Drive sold on May 13, for $285,000. Built in 1980, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,208 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $165,000.

The Trails

The townhome at 128 Pine Cone Trail sold on May 15, for $180,000. Built in 1977, the townhome is a 2/2.5 and has 1,664 square feet. It last sold in 1980 for $60,000.

Woodmere

The house at 710 Lindenwood Circle E. sold on May 13, for $320,000. Built in 1973, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,664 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $215,000.

ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA

Not in subdivision

The house at 45 Berkley Road sold on May 15, for $329,000. Built in 1958, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,074 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $233,000.

Regency Manor Estates

The house at 21 W. Tipperary Lane sold on May 14, for $775,000. Built in 1975, the house is a 3/3 and has, a pool and 2,332 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $815,000.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Palm Coast needs to incentivize economic development

Dear Editor: Palm Coast strategizes job growth. But, Palm Coast has no idea and no ability to reach the goal wished for. First off, Palm Coast can’t decide if they are a prime spot for development demand. U.S. 1, I-95, the railroad and major airports nearby ought to answer that. Next, the city leadership says they have been working on ways to incentivize to attract businesses for years! And after years, Palm Coast is still at the starting line. Why?

In order to get off the starting line Palm Coast needs a real economic development team quasi separate from the standard city staff, because the city staff is stagnant and not up to date on current practices. Palm Coast needs a separate standalone funding mechanism to support this team and to build a war chest of incentives to funds investment in economic development infrastructure and an economic development hunting team. Some ready developed parcels and raw land in prime development locations need to be set up for more rapid development.

Palm Coast needs a more directed, shorter and concise online presence. As it stands now there are 20 plus pages of gobbledygook directing everyone everywhere trying to cover everything instead of concentrating on the prize: industrial development that brings in real jobs, real capital and real tax dollars.

Palm Coast has been centered on retail development and residential development. Retail development helps some, but new businesses to some extent are diluting the established businesses. Residential development is going to dry up here with the current mismanagement spread across the entire City Council and mayor. There is no team here and the word moratorium with a quick Google search of Palm Coast finds 20 or more articles discussing 30, 60, 90 (day), half year and full year moratoriums on development. What business of the so called 15 inquiries wants to deal with that?

Individual members spout off with their own agendas and there is no team plan or concept being extolled, which is harming this city even more. Every construction trade,

retail trade and school district takes blow after blow to their bottom lines whether financial or pupil enrollment when jobs are being scared off that are here now or could be here. The city of Palm Coast has a poor relationship with the staff, has no plan in which to build on to help direct hiring a qualified city manager and is unwilling to put up funds upfront to get a good city manager, economic development team or anything else done.

Two Cities with similar size to Palm Coast — Abilene, Texas, 127,000; Provo, Utah, 113,000 — are on the cutting edge of 21st century tech development. Abilene has a ½-cent dedicated sales tax earmarked for economic development, and wow is it paying off! Large business developments that keep multiplying the tax base to expand the zoo, airport, parks, fire stations, water access and all kinds of jobs.

Abilene’s Economic Development focuses on Abilene. If Palm Coast wants economic development to offset some of the burdens on home property owners and others these areas will be helpful:

1. A Dedicated STEM high school. 2. Coordination with local higher education. 3. A comprehensive STEM program throughout all the schools. 4. Emphasis on U.S. 1, I-95, rail lines, airport and access to ports. 5. Development of industrial parks before land use is much more disorganized. 6. Stop talking about moratoriums, a potential job killer. A city not growing is dying!

DON WILSON Palm Coast

Could quid-pro-quo allegation lead to lawsuit against Palm Coast?

Dear Editor:

During two May City Council meetings, Mayor Mike Norris presented his mostly vague allegations of bribery he referred to as a “quid pro quo” real estate developer offer relating to his approval of the city’s Comprehensive Plan. He has and still refuses to offer the full details, but contends he has referred the matter to law enforcement.

However, during one of the council meetings, very surprisingly and carelessly, he actually did divulge who a suspect is without nam-

ing a name. He publicly announced that the suspect was one of the only two developers that had provided witness statements included in the Ethics Commission complaint alleging City Charter violations by Norris along with HR related concerns attributable to Norris. From the mayor’s disclosure and inference, the public now knows their two names and respective companies. It’s safe to assume those developers also know they have been named by Norris as suspects in a very serious criminal matter, attempted bribery of a public servant. We have to wonder what these two developers are thinking now since at least one of them may have been defamed by Norris’ implication. Are they concerned about the future reputational damage done because of Norris’ statements? Is it possible that at least one will sue both the mayor and the city? Is it also possible that if it turns out the mayor’s allegation is not credible or is not an actionable law enforcement case, both could sue? It’s reasonable to assume that both of these developers, although maybe for different reasons, have “lawyered up” already thanks to Mayor Norris’ poor judgement.

The City Council, obviously aware of legal exposure, is fearful of a lawsuit attributable to the mayor’s indiscretions and there has been an openly expressed concern by the vice mayor that a legal action, specifically for “defamation,” is possible.

And, of course, in furtherance of this Norris slip-up, any law enforcement authority may not be too pleased with the mayor carelessly providing a very public heads up to the bribery suspect.

All things considered, the whole “quid pro quo” matter for now seems a bit like a Mike Norris generated mess.

MARY ZITO Palm Coast

Riverbend Golf Course changes course

Dear Editor:

We have a new mayor and city staff has been requested by the commission to clearly with detail inquire of the FAA if Riverbend Golf Course can be reopened in accordance with current FAA guidelines. The most recent FAA guideline addressing golf on

airport land (150-5190-4b published Sept. 2022) lists golf as a compatible recreation use if it doesn’t threaten aviation safety.

Riverbend Golf Course has no obstacles to aviation. The only obstacle is complete detailed transparency. The city will receive a clear affirmative answer if they tell the FAA the “ultimate plan” to extend the runway 400 feet eastward to Bear Creek and through the golf course is dead today and forever like they are telling some of us.

If the city asks the FAA the wrong question without all the details, they will get a wrong or equivocal answer. If they still have the Bear Creek extension in waiting after renaming it in 2021 as the phase two ‘ultimate plan”, and don’t tell the FAA it is dead, the FAA will be confused.

If the extension is indeed dead forever, then all systems are go to find a new operator to take over as is or after grant-aided renovation. Then we will have active adult and seniors’ recreation back again.

Riverbend Golf Course needs weed mitigation and re-seeding, which is the cheapest part of golf course design and will not take multi-millions. No one has ever proposed that the city take over the golf course and manage it, before or after they allowed it to deteriorate.

All we ever wanted when the city foreclosed on the operator who was suffering cashflow during Covid, was to immediately try and find another operator to takeover as is.

DON MILLER Ormond Beach

Editor’s note: In 2021, there was a citizen push for the city to reopen Riverbend as a municipal course, with a change.org petition obtaining over 1,124 signatures. The city then evaluated the municipal golf courses at New Smyrna Beach and Port Orange, which were found to be operating at a deficit, and decided against moving forward with a municipal golf course.

DeSantis needs to veto SB 1730

Dear Editor:

The 2025 Florida Legislative Session has once again highlighted a growing concern regarding the

principle of home rule — the understanding that local governments are often best positioned to govern their communities.

It is encouraging to see some legislators starting to acknowledge the limitations of a one-size-fits-all approach. However, despite expressing concerns, many continue to support bills that preempt local government authority, with the hope that solutions will emerge later. Unfortunately, by that time, the impact on local control may already be significant.

Each city has its own distinct needs. Policies effective in urban centers like Miami may not be suitable for smaller cities like Deltona, and zoning solutions appropriate for Orlando could be impractical for historic areas like DeLand.

Two pieces of legislation, Senate Bill 180 and Senate Bill 1730, along with companion House Bill 943, exemplify this trend of undermining local governance. Senate Bill 1730 presents challenges to local land-use planning, potentially limiting municipalities’ ability to guide growth in ways that align with their long-term character and infrastructure. House Bill 943 extends preemptions that threaten to override carefully developed local policies aimed at addressing unique community concerns, including environmental protection, traffic management, and economic development.

Recently, these bills were merged under SB 1730 and passed in both legislative chambers.

Of particular concern, these measures, along with the 2023 Live Local Act, may restrict residents from participating in discussions about development projects in their own communities and neighborhoods.

This legislation not only prevents local officials from presenting Live Local projects to city councils but may also prohibit public discussions about such projects, regardless of whether local communities already have sufficient affordable housing options.

This trend continues a pattern where key decisions about local issues are made at the state level, often by individuals who may not fully understand the nuances of those communities. Moreover, the implementation of these projects places a disproportionate financial

Entertainers of the Year named at Spotlight on Flagler Youth Talent Show

Flagler County celebrated its rising stars during the 16th annual Spotlight on Flagler Youth Talent Show, hosted by the Flagler County Youth Center, on Thursday, May 29, at the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center. The showcase featured some of the community’s most talented young perform-

ers and concluded with the announcement of the 2025 Entertainers of the Year. The winners represented a diverse range of talent across three

age divisions: Junior Division — Winners: Emma and Sarah Duncan. Runner-up: Laurel Duffy Middle Division — Winner:

Sophia Paige. Runner-up: Brianna Fune

Senior Division — Winner: Isabella Derie. Runners-up: K’imani Gervin-McCoy and Lorelei Kilmer

“We are incredibly proud of every student who took the stage this year,” said Brandon Seminara, the Flagler County Youth Center’s director. “Spotlight on Flagler Youth continues to be a celebration of the amazing creativity and talent that thrives in our community.”

Flagler County veteran spotlight: Harold Helms

Branch of Military: U.S. Army

Dates of Service: 1977-1997

Rank/Occupation: Sergeant First Class / M1Armor Crew-

Publisher Brian McMillan, brian@observerlocalnews.com

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burden on smaller municipalities, where the cost per household can be significantly higher compared to larger cities that can distribute infrastructure costs over a broader population base. It is vital to recognize that cities and counties are not merely extensions of the state; they are essential partners in governance. When the Legislature overrides local decisions from afar, it limits flexibility and responsiveness, ultimately diminishing citizen engagement.

If we genuinely value accountability, transparency, and civic engagement, we must empower local communities to determine what is best for their residents. A tailored approach to governance is not only practical but necessary. We encourage everyone to reach out to Governor DeSantis to advocate for a veto of SB 180 and SB 1730.

DAVID SOSA Deltona

man

Hometown: Concord, North Carolina

Harold Helms enlisted in the Army in 1977 at the age of 17 as a 19K4H armor crewman and performed his basic training and advanced individual training at Fort Knox, Kentucky. His first duty assignment was at Fort Hood, Texas, for three 3 years followed by three years in Germany, then seven years with the 24th Infantry Division in Fort Stewart, Georgia, back to Germany for five more and then back at Fort Knox as an officers basic training instructor for a total of 20 years of service.

Helms worked every position on the tanks over the years — driver, loader. gunner and tank commander. He said his biggest accomplishment was the eight months he was deployed to Desert Storm. As a platoon sergeant and tank commander he was awarded the Southwest Asia Service Medal with two Bronze Service stars and the Kuwait Liberation Medal. He received many decorations, medals and citations including the Meritorious Service Medal, 12 Army Achievement medals, six Good Conduct medals, a National Defense Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officers

Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon and Overseas Service Ribbon (second award). He was awarded several qualification badges including Expert M16 Rifle, Expert 9mm Pistol and Marksman Hand Grenade. Helms retired as a Sergent First Class, in November, 1997 and went to truck driving school. He drove a semi-truck for the next 25 years. He moved to Palm Coast and retired in 2023. He was recently elected commander of VFW Post 8696. He is married to Donna Joiner Helms, going on 34 years, has a daughter, Machelle Hiller, two grandchildren, Payton and Cody Hiller and a 6-year-old great granddaughter, Rosalina Hiller. He enjoys serving at the VFW, working on his 1969 Firebird, riding his motorcycles, shooting guns, fishing, and spending time with his family.

From left, Senior winner Isabella Derie, Middle winner Sophia Paige, Junior winners Sarah and Emma Duncan, Middle runner-up Brianna Fune, Senior runners-up K’imani Gervin-McCoy and Lorelei Kilmer and Junior runner-up Laurel Duffy. Courtesy photo

Sgt. 1st Class Harold Helms. Courtesy photo

The Hispanic Food and Arts Festival drew a crowd of about 1,500 on Saturday, May 31, at St. Joe Plaza, raising $2,100 for scholarships from the Hispanic American Cultural Society. The event was made possible in part through a grant from the City of Palm Coast and the Flagler County Cultural Council. In the photo: Founder Ramon Marrero, Janelly Regalado, Priscilla Berrios, Fiorella Vasquez Grover, Wanda Denice, Eddie Velasquez and Tom Witherspoon. Photo by Brian McMillan

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Principal tells Mainland’s Class of 2025 that they have set a high standard.

MICHELE MEYERS

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Mainland principal Melissa Fraine beamed as she approached the podium during the Buccaneers’ commencement on Friday, May 30 at the Ocean Center.

Fraine said she was deeply honored to stand before the graduates, their families, friends, faculty and staff, not only as the school’s principal, but also as a fellow Buccaneer of the class of 1985.

Fraine assumed the helm of her alma mater in January.

“Students you will always hold a very special place in my heart because you were my first graduating class and, interesting enough, this summer marks my 40th class reunion,” She said. “To me, this is a beautiful reminder that the bonds that we built and the memories and the friendships that we have here can last a lifetime. We’re here to celebrate your accomplishments and the bright future that lies ahead of you.”

The class of 2025 has set a high standard of achievement for underclassmen to strive for, Fraine said. There were 365 graduates and each member, she said, has made a spe-

‘Be the light’

cial contribution to Mainland High School during his or her career.

Forty-four scholars earned a 3.5 GPA cum laude, 25 earned magna cum laude with a 3.8 GPA and 61 scholars earned summa cum laude with a 3.9 GPA. Seniors have worked

Seabreeze High School

Class of 2025 saw almost a 99% graduation rate.

MICHELE MEYERS

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

As “king crab,” Seabreeze principal Tucker Harris addressed the crowd during the commencement ceremony at the Ocean Center on Friday, May 30 with the same Sandcrab exuberance he has used for the past three years.

Harris thanked Seabreeze alumni and everyone in attendance for their continued support, saying that support is one of the many reasons Seabreeze remains a beacon of excellence and tradition.

“As you have heard me say many times, Seabreeze is more than a school, it is a community —that of value, resilience and a shared identity,” he said. “One of our most cherished symbols is our sandbar. Unlike natural sandbars that shift with the tides, ours is steadfast. It is a place of safety, growth and transformation.”

Over the past four years, Harris said the class of 2025 has learned, grown, succeeded and stumbled, while Seabreeze teachers and staff stood watch over them as their educational lifeguards.

“Now you’re ready to leave the sandbar and step into deeper waters,” he said. “The crab is a very powerful symbol. It’s resilient, adaptable and always evolving. You’ve shown strength in diversity, you’ve embraced vulnerability with courage. You’ve grown into thoughtful, capable young adults and I’m so, so proud of the people you’ve become.” He took a moment to reflect on the class’ achievements.

Class of 2025 had 345 graduates. They completed over 26,462 hours of community service and over $11,000,000 in scholarships offers. GPA percentages included 71% with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and 51% graduating with honors and a GPA of 3.5 or higher. All 26 athletic teams maintained a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Harris said that even with increased graduation requirements, their graduation rate was close to 99%.

By adding an industry certification to their existing high school diploma,

over 17,000 community service hours and received close to $200,000 in scholarships. Industry scholar designations require students to attain a high school diploma and also earn an industry certification. Students who desire to achieve scholar designation must successfully complete challenging academic courses and pass end-of-course exams, proving they are college-ready. Mainland had 305 students earn industry scholar designations and 103 who earned scholar designations. Eighteen seniors earned the Florida Seal of Biliteracy and 13 students will be entering the military following graduation. Students also signed up for dual enrollment, with 27 receiving their associates degrees at Daytona State College on May 13. Valedictorian Abigail Grove earned her AA at DSC and will be attending the University of Florida to major in finance. She addressed the graduates.

“We have made it to this monumental moment, not because of our achievements but because of our ability to rise back up after failure,” she said. “… Success that comes without hardship is meaningless but success that comes after multiple setbacks and countless hours of work can be the reward.”

Salutatorian Gabriella Stinson will also be attending the UF to major in biology with a pre-med track. She said giving the graduation speech gave her flashbacks of the speech class she took at DSC, but she wanted to share important information with her fellow graduates.

“Setbacks and moments of doubt shape how we think, how we grow and how we respond when things become hard,” she said. “Growth does not come from perfection — it comes from pushing through imperfection. Your strength is not built upon easy and laid back moments but (built) when you push through those that are hard, frustrating and even

embarrassing, at times. A phrase that always stuck with is ‘a setback is just a setup for the comeback’.”

Fraine said every choice you make is like lighting a candle and implored her graduates to let that light be their compass, which will lead to decisions that align with their values and dreams.

“As you prepare to step out into the world, I want to share a simple but powerful message — be the light,” she said. “As you leave the familiar halls and you take your next steps, remember the decisions that you make both big and small — they are going to shape your journey. Life will offer you choices. Some will be clear and others will test your resolve. Learn from your mistakes, celebrate your triumphs and trust yourself to navigate the path that feels right for you. In those moments of uncertainty, remember that you are the light.”

Leaving the sandbar

206 students were able to earn their industry scholarship designation. A total of 93 students increased their academic workload and attained their scholar designation. Ten high school graduates dual enrolled at Daytona State College and earned their associates degrees on May 13. Fourteen seniors achieved the Seal of Biliteracy and 33 students were recognized by the Florida Seal of Fine Art. Eleven graduates have signed up to serve in various branches of the military.

Seabreeze offers the Advanced International Certificate of Education, or AICE, and Advancement Via Individual Determination, known as AVID. Both programs provide students with an advanced curriculum and prepare them for a college-level education, with AICE being a program overseen by the University of Cambridge. Twelve students participated in AVID and 39 students

were AICE diploma recipients.

All three graduation speakers — Anna Buckmaster, Amanda Martin and William Reece — earned their AICE diplomas. Reece referenced the poem “The New Colossus” by Emma Lazarus. He said that the verse most pertinent to the graduating class is “I lift my lamp beside the golden door.”

“Lamps are symbols of learning preparation,” Reece said. “… From day one at Seabreeze, there were teachers and administrators who handed us our golden lamps and through careful teaching methodology, turned those lamps so that light would always shine.”

Buckmaster said it is important to find comfort and significance in who you are and what you have to offer.

“Now and always, I encourage you to practice reflection, embrace individuality, encourage creativity, contribute to your own success,” she said. “Make sure you’re at peace with

where you are, what you have done and where you are going.”

In closing, Harris reiterated that the graduates were ready to leave the sandbar and explore deeper waters.

“As your school dad or king crab, as some of you like to say, I know you’re ready,” Harris said. “You’ve got the strength, you’ve got the heart and, yes, you’ve got the claws to

‘Always

And

Mainland students hold candles up after principal Melissa Fraine tells them to be the light after they graduate and step into the world. 365 Buccaneers graduated at the Ocean Center on Friday, May 30. Photos by Michele Meyers

Mainland seniors (front row, right to left) Erielle Jenkins, Tajay James and Brielle Jackson prepare to graduate at the Ocean Center on Friday, May 30.

Seabreeze seniors (left to right) Hayden Hayes, ZZ Nichols, Annabel Thistle and Conor O’Brien take a moment together before the graduation ceremony at the Ocean Center on Friday, May 30. Photos by Michele Meyers

Triplets Emma, Hana and Kendra Uneda graduate with the class of 2025.

Graduate Autumn Demarest started her buisness Sweet Toof while attending Mainland High School’s business classes.

Mainland graduates hang out at the Ocean Center before the commencement ceremony. Photos by Michele Meyers

Mainland basketball coach Joe Giddens (left) enjoys the moment with his daughter Janiyah Giddens

Seabreeze seniors Gabrielle Delavi and Logan Fletcher get some laughs in

Seabreeze AICE scholar Riya Arab (right) receives her diploma from principal Tucker Harris.

Seabreeze’s Jesse Shirley (second from left) gets amped about graduating with fellow seniors Tyler Shallop (left), Sha’kaira Sinegal (right) at the Ocean Center on Friday, May 30.

Seabreeze Class of 25 graduate Amanda Martin talks to fellow seniors about navigating the four years of high school. Photos by Michele Meyers

LOCAL EVENTS

THURSDAY, JUNE 5

‘INTO NEVERLAND’ OPENING RECEPTION

When: 5-7 p.m.

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

Details: “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

When: 6-9 p.m.

Where: Serendipity Marketplace, 5 Commercial Court, Palm Coast

Details: 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

When: 5:30-7 p.m.

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

Details: 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

When: 8:30 p.m.

Where: Rockefeller Gardens, 26 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach

Details: Bring a chair or blanket. The movie will be “If,” rated PG. Movies are weather-sensitive. Call 386-6763216 for rainout information.

SATURDAY, JUNE 7

FIRST BUNNELL HISTORY DAY

When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Edward Johnson Park, 401 E. Court St., Bunnell

Details: Attend this historic event as Bunnell celebrates its 114th anniversary. Enjoy food trucks, history displays, demonstrations, DJ music, vendors, history reenactors and tours of local landmarks. There will

YOUR TOWN

The Casements Camera Club presents its 12th annual Spring Exhibit

The Casements Camera Club’s 12th annual Spring Exhibit at The Casements in Ormond Beach opened on June 3.

The exhibit of color and black and white images is open to the public through June 26, with gallery hours being Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon. The Casements is located at 25 Riverside Drive.

“This is an event our members really look forward to! We encourage the public to come out to The

also be a kids’ zone, farmer’s market, wine/beer tent and a mechanical bull. See Page 6A.

‘FOAMTASTIC’ YOUTH SUMMER READING KICKOFF

When: 1 to 3:15 p.m.

Where: Flagler County Public Library, Palm Coast Parkway

Details: The Flagler County Public Library on Palm Coast Parkway is celebrating the beginning of its Youth Summer Reading program and the grand opening of its new Music Garden.

The “foamtastic” bubble party will be held from 1-3:15 p.m. at the Palm Coast Branch Library on June 7. Live music will be performed by Mr. Richard at 1 p.m. and the ribbon-cutting for the new Music Garden will be at 2 p.m., followed by the bubble party, a Flagler County press release said.

The garden was funded in part by a grant received from the Northeast Florida Library Information Network and by donations to the Friends of the Library of Flagler County, the press release said.

The celebration also marks the beginning of the library’s Summer Performance series, with a special performance and entertainment planned for every Tuesday through July.

It is also the beginning of the library’s reading program. Similarly, the Summer Reading Scratch-Offs program is for teens aged 13-18.

GOD’S FAMILY BIBLE CHURCH PANTRY FOOD DISTRIBUTION

When: 10-11 a.m.

Where: Parking lot across Gods Family Bible Church, 256 Old Brick Road, Bunnell

Details: God’s Family Bible Church distributes food every first and third Saturday in this drive-thru event.

BEGINNER SOURDOUGH CLASS

When: 12-2 p.m.

Where: Serendipity Marketplace, 5 Commercial Court, Palm Coast

Details: Learn simple sourdough basics, taste sourdough products, and learn how to rehydrate your own starter. Included in the $40 cost is your own dehydrated starter, a mason jar, instructions, recipes, refreshments and a sourdough treat to bring home. Register at https:// sourdough-class-copy.cheddarup. com.

SUMMER CLASSES FOR KIDS

When: 1-2:30 p.m.

Where: Art Among the Flowers, 160 Cypress Point Parkway, Suite A114,

Casements and view the photos by our group of talented photographers and vote for their favorite,” said Ans van Beek Torkington, president of the Casements Camera Club. “Votes are ‘anonymous.’ The image with the most votes will earn the ‘Public Choice’ ribbon. Votes may be cast June 3rd through the 17th. Ribbons will be awarded at our reception on Tuesday, June 17th.”

Ormond’s ‘Costume Crazies’ dress up as ‘Frantic Fairies’

On Wednesday, May 21, Ormond Beach’s “Costume Crazies” dressed up as “frantic fairies” as they took on the downtown.

The group of women dined at Kona Tiki Bar and at 31 Supper Club. To learn more, join the Costume Crazies group on Facebook.

Palm Coast Details: In this hands-on floral design class, kids will learn how to create their very own flower arrangement using fresh-cut stems in a wicker basket. Class costs $45. Visit artamongtheflowers.com.

ORMOND ART WALK

When: 3-7 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach MainStreet Arts District, 128 W. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach

Details: Join Ocean Art Gallery, Frame of Mind, Art Spotlight, The Studio by Artist Angel Lowden, the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and more on the first Saturday of each month for art openings and events.

MUSIC + ARTS EXPO

When: 5-9 p.m.

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

Beach Details: OMAM will host The Locals Mix on the rooftop terrace for a celebration of art, music and community. Enjoy a rooftop music competition featuring area songwriters, live painting by local artists, food trucks, drinks and artisan vendors. Tickets cost $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Visit thelocalsmix.com.

ART IN MOTION: DANCE

FACTORY’S 24TH

SPRING RECITAL

When: 7 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center, 399 N. U.S. 1, Ormond

Beach

Details: See Dance Factory’s 24th spring dance recital, Art in Motion. Tickets cost $25-$30. Visit ormondbeachperformingartscenter. csstix.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 8

HAPPY WANDERERS

FLAGLER BEACH WALK

When: 7:30-10 a.m.

Where: Flagler Beach Library, 315 7th St. South, Flagler Beach

Details: Join the Happy Wanderers for a 5K or 10K walk. Costs $4. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. and the walk starts at 8 a.m.

MONDAY, JUNE 9

SUMMER CREATIVITY

WORKOUT CAMP

When: 9 a.m. to noon, MondayFriday, June 9-13

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

Beach

Details: OMAM invites children ages 9-13 to stretch their imaginations

by learning how to incorporate writing and art to develop a personalized, sketchbook journal. Camp costs $135 for members and $150 for non-members. Register at ormondartmuseum.org.

TUESDAY, JUNE 10

WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP

When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Ocean Art Gallery, 197 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach

Details: Paint along with watercolor artist Stewart Jones. All supplies are included in the $75 class fee. No drawing is required. Call 386-3179400.

MOONRISE AT THE BEACH

When: 8-8:45 p.m.

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

Details: Take in the view of the moon rising over the Atlantic Ocean. Bring binoculars and a camera for photo opportunities. Entrance into the park is $5 per vehicle. Call 386517-2086.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11

AARP MONTHLY MEETING, CHAPTER 1057 ORMOND BEACH

When: 10 a.m. to noon

Where: Universalist Unitarian Church, 56 N. Halifax Drive, Ormond

Beach

Details: Attend the monthly meeting of the AARP Chapter 1057 Ormond Beach. The guest speaker will be Zone 2 Ormond Beach City Commissioner Travis Sargent. An optional $5 light lunch will follow. For more info, contact Chapter 1057 President Jeff Boyle at 386-341-9013.

THURSDAY, JUNE 12

ART OF HEALING WORKSHOP:

MUSIC & MOTION

When: 2-3:30 p.m.

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

Beach

Details: Guest instructor Alexandrea Tocco will lead this workshop. Through guided vocal expressions, participants will connect with their inner rhythm and create visual art inspired by sound. No art or music experience is necessary. Free admission. Registration required. Visit ormondartmuseum.org.

PLANT BINGO AT THE MARKETPLACE

When: 6-8:45 p.m.

Where: Serendipity Marketplace, 5

Commercial Court, Palm Coast Details: Hosted by Adorn Your Front

Ormond Beach resident publishes book

Ormond Beach resident and author

Lisa Passi is releasing a book in July.

Published by Mona Lisa Press, Passi’s book is titled “The Deal,” and

immerses readers in a love story entwined with the high-stakes world of real estate, according to a press release. Set in 1988, “The Deal” tells the story of Jaclyn Tate, the daughter of a preacher and schoolteacher who earns a reputation as a top

Door & More, the evening begins with check-in, snacks and shopping. Costs $35 per person. Each guest will receive three bingo cards to play 10-13 rounds, with the chance to win plants and plant-themed goodies. First round starts at 6:30 p.m.

FRIDAY, JUNE 13

TURTLE TALK

When: 10-11 a.m.

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

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

SATURDAY, JUNE 14

REEL IN THE FUN KIDS’ FISHING TOURNAMENT

When: 8 a.m. to noon

Where: Beach approach at Neptune Avenue and Ocean Shore Boulevard, Ormond Beach

Details: Kids ages 4-12 are invited to take part in this free catch and release tournament. Open to Ormond Beach residents only. Check-in starts at 8 a.m. and the tournament starts at 9 a.m. There will be awards and prizes. Deadline to register is June 11. Visit ormondbeach.org/ LSRegistration.

ARTS AND CRAFTS WALK

When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Beach Front Grille, 2444 S. Ocean Shore Blvd. Flagler Beach

Details: See over 20 vendors and enjoy live music at this free event.

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

When: 12-6 p.m.

Where: African American Cultural Society and Museum, 4422 U.S. 1 Highway North, Palm Coast

Details: Celebrate Juneteenth with the AACS. The celebration will include a waterslide bounce house, games, vendors, a DJ, an African fashion show, drumming, dancing and more. The program will begin at 2 p.m. Visit https://aacspalmcoast. org/2025-juneteenth.

SUMMER CLASSES FOR KIDS

When: 1-2:30 p.m.

Where: Art Among the Flowers, 160 Cypress Point Parkway, Suite A114, Palm Coast

Details: In this Flag Day art class, kids will create their own 3D star mobiles using cut-out stars and stripes. Class costs $45. Visit artamongtheflowers.com.

commercial real estate broker in Manhattan. Her mentor then selects her to open a new office in Dallas, where she is thrust into one of the most competitive real estate deals of her career — all while an unexpected romance takes root. Passi is the former president of Drew Pearson International, a global marketing enterprise. She is a business consultant and public speaker. She has lived in Ormond Beach since 2017, when she moved to town to restore the “Captain’s House” at 2627 John Anderson Drive.

Front: Teri Garcia,Rhonda Newton, Marta Goodner and Sandy Cassella. Middle: Laurie Broad, Kristin McRae and Darcy Allen. Back: Kara Smith,Debbie Sullivan and Pamela Baird-Mengel. Courtesy photo

Lisa Passi

“Alimony Without Divorce”: How One Florida Couple Protected Themselves

During a Nursing Home Crisis

Scott A. Selis, Esq.

Scott A. Selis is an estate planning and elder law attorney with offices in Ormond Beach & Palm Coast. Mr. Selis was an Elder Law Attorney of the Year selected by the Florida Bar’s Elder Law Section in 2016.

Not long ago, a woman came into my office feeling overwhelmed. Her husband had just been admitted to a nursing home. Medicaid was helping pay for his care, but she was scared about how she would survive financially.

Let’s call her “Mary.” She and her husband lived simply. Her only income was Social Security, and now that most of her husband’s income was going to the nursing home, she was left with barely enough to get by. She wondered how she could afford to keep the house, buy groceries, and put gas in the car to visit him?”

Here’s the issue: When one spouse is in a nursing home and qualifies for Medicaid, the spouse at home — known as the “community spouse” — is allowed to keep some of the other spouse’s income. But often, as in Mary’s case, it’s not enough.

That’s when I told her about a lesser-known option: Spousal Support Without Divorce, or as I like to call it, “Alimony Without Divorce.”

This legal tool allows a community spouse to ask the court for financial support from their spouse in the nursing home — without filing for divorce or even separating. It’s simply a way to protect the spouse at home from financial hardship.

Mary was relieved to learn she could receive more of her husband’s income — and that he fully agreed to it. We went to court, got a support order, and things changed quickly. Medicaid paid for her husband’s care, and the court-ordered support gave Mary enough to live on. Thanks to this legal strategy, Medicaid had to treat a larger share of her husband’s income as hers. That gave her the ability to stay in her home and meet her basic needs, without putting her husband’s care at risk.

This solution only works when both spouses agree, and this article explains its application only in nursing home Medicaid cases. For couples like Mary and her husband, it can be a financial lifeline.

If you’re in a similar situation, talk to a Florida elder law attorney. “Alimony without divorce” might be exactly what you need.

Phone: 386-256-1035

Mobile: 386-527-4109

Web: SelisLaw.com

Serving Clients throughout Florida

Offices – Ormond Beach & Palm Coast

YOUR SCHOOLS Seabreeze High School graduating senior is headed to MIT

Wade Rogers will be the first person in his family to go to college.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

Seabreeze graduating senior Wade Rogers once thought his dream school was out of reach.

But two teachers changed his perspective — and now, come fall, Rogers will be a student at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

And it all started with his former chemistry teacher, Robert Hernandez. One day, he came into his classroom and noticed Hernandez had a University of Miami shirt on.

As Rogers was considering the school as a possibility, he started asking him questions.

“He was like, ‘Why are you

looking at Florida schools? You should be trying to go to MIT and Stanford,’” Rogers recalled. “His kid went to Stanford. ... That was the first time I was like, ‘If his kid went to Stanford and he thinks I can do it, then I’ll try.’”

As a kid, Rogers spent a lot

of time on MIT’s Scratch website, which provides children with a free coding community to create digital stories, games and animations. When he started applying to colleges, and now had MIT on his mind as a real possibility, he started reading blogs written by current students.

He discovered he liked the culture and the tight-knit nature of the school. Plus it’s close to a large body of water.

“Since I’ve been in Ormond my whole life, I’ve always had the river to look at, and I’ve had the ocean just over there,” Rogers said. “So it’s kind of a funny thing that I always wanted to have a big body of water to see.”

Then, his calculus teacher, Todd Huckaby, helped make MIT a reality by introducing Rogers to the QuestBridge program, which connects high-achieving students from

low-income backgrounds with scholarship opportunities.

Rogers has experienced sickness in his family, leading him to transfer from Spruce Creek High School’s IB program in the middle of his sophomore year. While that was out of his control, his academics, he said, weren’t.

Rogers will be the first person in his family to attend college. He hopes to become an engineer.

“Everything I wanted to do, every endeavor I would go after, he would support me,” Rogers said of Huckaby. “I feel like he recognized the importance of just jumping after opportunities.”

That falls in line with Rogers’ mantra for his high school years: Minimizing regrets.

When he got to Seabreeze, he joined the school’s Digital Design career academy

and later became part of the yearbook committee. He was webmaster his junior year and then, for his senior year, was named co-editor-in-chief.

Last summer, he also participated in the Florida State University Young Scholars Program, spending six weeks taking classes in programming, math and science, as well as working in the school’s eHealth Lab for the program’s research project. Rogers and the other interns worked on a patient portal that used artificial intelligence to help patients better understand diagnostics.

So his advice for high school students?

“Recognize that you have these four years and then once they’re done, it’s going to shape the rest of your life,” Rogers said. “Because of what I did in high school, now I get to go to MIT.”

Flagler Palm Coast’s Davon Gwyn hopes to dance with the stars

Gwyn is the second Bulldog to win the NHSDA State of Florida Artistic Merit Award.

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

You could say Davon Gwyn is following in Reiko Serato’s dance steps. Gwyn, who graduated from Flagler Palm Coast High School last week, is the second Bulldog to win the prestigious National Honor Society for Dance Arts (NHSDA) State of Florida Artistic Merit Award. Serato was the first in 2019.

Davon Gwynn has won several competitions and dance scholarships.

“I’ve always asked her little tips about how she went through it,” Gwyn said. “She’s always been a really good guide and mentor for me, so I am really appreciative of her.”

Serato is currently a lead dancer with Celebrity Cruises, and in the fall, Gwyn will be a dancer with Royal Caribbean Cruises.

Gwyn, a member of FPC’s 60-member Dance Company, has been raking in the awards.

Gwyn also won the NHSDA Leadership and Academic Achievement awards for Florida.

“He had the highest GPA, the best performed choreographed solo and the best essay. And he was the only one invited to perform a solo at the honors concert,” said Janice Monsanto, FPC’s dance teacher.

Gwyn was also offered bachelor of fine arts dance scholarships to the University of Florida and Florida Southern College, full scholarships to the Joffrey Ballet School Summer Intensive and the Dance Now! Miami World Dance Summer Intensive.

He graduated Magna Cum Laude and with the Florida Golden Seal of the Arts for Dance. And, among other scholarships and awards, he finished 12th overall in Ciara’s Dance Icon, an online international competition.

“You had to make sure you did the dance challenges that they sent you and keep up with the emails and activities,” Gwyn said. “That was a really new experience and it opened a few more doors for me.”

Monsanto said Gwyn deserves every award and accolade that appears on his resume, and there are a bunch.

“We’re really excited for him. He’s so hard working and also a great scholar,” she said. “He really is exceptional, not only because of his natural talent, but his amazing work ethic. He’s got a positive spirit. He’s very supportive to the other dance members, and he’s taken on a leadership role this year. He brings a lot of energy to the room and it spills over to the other students.”

Gwyn simply loves to dance. He doesn’t remember a time when he wasn’t dancing.

“I think I’ve been dancing since I came out of the womb,” he said. “I found it really fun. I remember seeing dance on TV and watching movies like Alvin and the Chipmunks, and I wanted to like be like them. I went to my first dance studio at around 4 or 5, and my first classes were tap and hip-hop. I’ve been just dancing nonstop ever since.”

CLASS NOTES

Matanzas students with no referrals rewarded with carnival

On Friday, May 23, more than 820 students at Matanzas High School were rewarded with a day of fun, music and food as part of the school’s annual Spring Carnival, hosted by the MHS Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports program. The event celebrated students who had remained referral-free throughout the fourth quarter since returning from spring break. The carnival featured a variety of attractions, including inflatables, interactive games, a silent disco, and a live DJ spinning upbeat tracks in the gymnasium. The PBIS program at Matan-

Tap is one of his favorite styles, he said. He prides himself on his tap dancing. He’s also captivated by ballet.

“Every style you can name, I’m really interested in,” he said.

On the cruise ship, he’ll be doing more musical theater elements and classic jazz elements, he said.

Dancing on the cruise ship will not only further his dance education, Gwyn said, but also allow him to cross something off his bucket list — seeing the world. He’d also like to be backup dancer for an artist’s world tour and dance in a Super Bowl halftime show. But, he especially wants to give back to his mother, Vanessa Gwyn, who has always been his biggest supporter, he said.

“She’s always the one that’s driving me to dance practice. She does so much for me, and one day I want to show her how much I appreciate her. I want to shower her with gifts.”

zas High continues to be a powerful motivator for student success, proving that recognition and reward can be just as important as academics in shaping a school’s culture.

Seabreeze holds EOC celebration

Seabreeze High School celebrated its freshmen and sophomores during an end-ofcourse celebration on Friday, May 23. The celebration was held in partnership with local Chik-Fil-A restaurants, Kona Ice, Sick Printing and others. Any ninth or tenth grade student who moved up a level in English Language Arts, Algebra or Geometry, were invited to attend.

Wade Roger Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Davon Gwyn (right) with FPC dance teacher Janice Monsanto. Poto by Brent Woronoff

Courtesy photo

Ormond Historical Society’s camp honors Native American heritage

The Ormond Beach Historical Society’s second annual Discover and Explore Ormond Beach Summer Camp began on Monday, June 2, with “Timicuan Day.”

Guests Jim Sawgrass, historian and native Floridian of Muscogee Creek descent, and Henry Mekseree taught campers about Native American history, traditions and heritage. The five-day immersive camp held at the AndersonPrice Memorial Building is aimed for children 8-11 years old and seeks to spark curiosity and deepen appreciation for Ormond Beach’s history, according to a press release.

From a day to celebrate the Timicua tribe, to learning about the town’s founders and its role as the Birthplace of Speed, campers will “discover the vibrant stories, people, and places that shaped their hometown,” the press release states.

–JARLEENE ALMENAS

Dance Method’s

The Dance Method held its annual Showcase on Saturday, May 17, with three shows in one day.

This year’s theme was “Platinum,” a celebration of music that has been awarded Platinum status by the Recording Industry Association of America.

With over 200 dancers, including kids and adults, and over a 1,000 attendees, the day was an exciting and memorable event for all involved.

The Dance Method, at 3371 N. State St., Suite 3, Bunnell, is now registering for summer camps and

classes as well as its 202526 season. Visit http://www. thedancemethodfl.com/ to learn more.

–OBSERVER STAFF

Amazing caregiving isn’t a ‘checkbox’ –it’s a calling. Our passionate team of caregivers treat you like family and are available 24/7. HarborChase elevates senior living to new heights with quintessential amenities, award-winning dining, and abundant activities. Ensuring residents celebrate life with purpose.

Jimmy Sawgrass speaks to campers about arrows and how Native Americans used them for hunting.

The first day of the Ormond Beach Historical Society’s second annual summer camp was themed around the Timicua tribe. Photos by Jarleene Almenas

Tip Tap Toes performing “Hound Dog.”

Hip Hop I performing “Men In Black.” Photos by Sterner Classic Photography

Kids touch real furs during the Ormond Beach Historical Society’s second annual summer camp.

Owner and director Lauren Jaussi

SPORTS

Wild development

I was hoping to instill the love of nature, being out in the woods, and the love of trail running. It’s been more fulfilling than I ever could have imagined.

CARRIE

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Carrie Meng had the idea of organizing a kids trail race series in Flagler County for five or more years before finally making it happen three years ago with the start of “Where the Wild Ones Run.”

The series ended its third season on Saturday, May 31, with the Wild Boar Run at Graham Swamp Trail in Palm Coast. The other trail races in the series are the Deer Run at Princess Place Preserve, which was held March 22, and the Hare Run at Mala Compra Trails, which was held on April 19.

There are races of different distances at each trail for three age groups ranging from 3 to 13 years old. At the Wild Boar Run, the 3-5 age group ran a half mile at Graham Swamp Trail, the 6-9 age group ran 1.5 miles and the 10-13 age group ran three miles.

Meng organizes other running and biking event through Elevate Events, but the kids’ trail series, she said, is her passion project.

“I was hoping to instill the love of nature, being out in the woods, and the love of trail running,” she said. “It’s been more fulfilling than I ever

could have imagined.”

Meng said she was apprehensive about starting the series because there was nothing else like it in Florida.

“Plenty of races have a kids run, but there’s nothing for kids only, offering multiple distances for different age groups,” she said.

Meng has been running and putting on running events for many years. She had never tried trail running until moving to Flagler County 20-plus years ago when she ran the Graham Swamp Trail. She quickly fell in love with the trail.

“It was so different than road racing. It gets you away from cars and noise. You’re with nature, and it’s very therapeutic,” she said.

She began planning the kids series five years ago. She picked three trails and gave each race a name that incorporates the animals that can be seen along those trails — deer at Princess Place, hares at Mala Compra and wild boar at Graham Swamp.

“The names are playful, but they also have a tie to that specific area,” she said.

Meng had Kim Fitzgerald of Curly Tail Design create logos for each trail run. Still, it would be two years before she finally began the series.

“It was fear of the unknown. It’s scary to take the leap to do something brand new,” she said. “No one had done anything like that in this area. Were kids interested in running trails? Probably none of them had (tried it) unless they ran cross country, and so few do.”

Her fears were unfounded. Her first kids run on April 1, 2023 — the Wild Boar Run at Graham Swamp — drew 66 runners, exceeding her expectations. She added the other two events in May and August of that year and each one attracted more entries. It also brought together a community of volunteers who are trail runners themselves, she said.

There were 18 volunteers at Saturday’s Wild Boar Run including assistant race director Heather Tran. Most of them have volunteered at all nine races since the first Wild Boar Run. They man the water stations and turns on the course. Sweepers stay behind the last runners. Bicycle riders lead the runners. Other volunteers run with the kids.

“It’s humbling. They’re invested in the events themselves. I couldn’t do it by myself. It take a village,” Meng said.

“Flagler County Runners really stepped up and embraced this as their own as well,” she added. “They feel like this is for our up-and-coming trail runners. They’re the ones who are going to take care of the land, the trails, our preserved areas (when they grow up).”

The trail runs have drawn as

many 90 kids, Meng said, with the last few races drawing 85 entrants. She ordered 85 finisher medals six weeks ago and the 85th runner was registered the day before the May 31 event. Most runners enter all three events in the series. If a runner turns 14 before the second or third race of the year, they are allowed to enter the other races.

“We want to keep it manageable, but we don’t want to turn kids away,”

Meng said.

The Graham Swamp Trail is unique. It’s one of the few running and biking trails in the state with elevation changes over a short distance. It has a lot of roots and rocks and is different from anything in Flagler County, Meng said.

The uneven terrain didn’t pose too much of a challenge even for the youngest runners in the 3-5 age group.

“The little kids, they just run joyfully,” Meng said. “I encourage competition, but seeing sportsmanship, seeing them try something new and being out there with the kids is a lot of fun. There are different challenges (with the youngest kids). It’s like herding cats, making sure everyone stays on course. But it’s very rewarding, seeing them challenging themselves, smiling when they come across the finish line. It’s a lot of fun.”

For complete results of the Wild Boar Run, go to https://www.webscorer.com/race?raceid=392197. For more information on the Where the Wild Ones Run and other running and biking events presented by Carrie Meng’s Elevate Events, go to https://www.elevateeventcompany. com/.

The ‘Where the Wild Ones Run’ kids trail race series instills children with a love of nature.

Three-year-old Gianni Gagliano runs the half-mile race.

The first group, kids ages 3-5, begin their half-mile run at Graham Swamp Trail. Photos by Brent Woronoff.

Jack Magee plays the national anthem.

Rylee Denny stays ahead of parents in the age 6-9 1.5-mile run.

Girls 10-13 winners share the top step of the podium. From left, Aspen Lester (second place), Madelyn Yorgey (first place) and Avery Wisniewski (third place).

Maddox Sykes runs in the age 3-5 halfmile race.

MENG

SIDE LINES

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Upcoming youth sports camps

June 9-11: FPC Kids Cheer Camp, at FPC 800 gym, grades 2-8, 9 a.m.-noon. Learn cheers, dances, stunts. Cost: $110. Info: isomk@ flaglerschools.com

June 16-18: Flagler Palm Coast Baseball Camp, ages 7-12, at FPC softball field, 9 a.m. to noon. Cost, $150. Info: fpcbulldogsbsb@yahoo.com

June 16-18: Matanzas Youth Football Clinic, incoming grades 6-8, 8-11 a.m. Cost: $100. bring money for merchandise and snacks. Info: piratesppridebooster@ gmail.com

June 16-19: FPC Boys Basketball Camp, incoming grades 5-9, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Cost: $125. Info: https:// tinyurl.com/YC362A6D

PCLL Warriors win Tournament of Champions

The Palm Coast Little League’s Warriors won the District 19 Senior League Baseball Tournament of Champions on May 22.

Email sports news and announcements to Brent Woronoff at brent@ observerlocalnews.com

Eight FPC athletes participate in final signing celebration

Eight Flagler Palm Coast High school athletes participated in the Bulldogs’ final college signing ceremony of the school year on Tuesday, May 27.

In all, 27 FPC graduating seniors signed letters of intent this year to play collegiate sports.

Mikhail Zysek, the Bulldogs’ career receiving leader, became the seventh FPC football player to sign with a university. Zysek will play for NAIA school Florida Memorial University in Miami Gardens. One of Zysek’s high school teammates, Corinthians “RJ” Watson, will play for Florida Memorial’s cross-town rival, St. Thomas University.

The others who celebrated their signings on May 27 were girls wrestlers Ana Vilar and Tiana Fries; boys wrestler T.J. McLean; boys soccer players Jace Zecca, Noah Daily and Felipe DeCampos; and girls basketball player Alexandra Perez. Fries and McLean will both wrestle at NAIA program Brewton-Parker College in Mount Vernon, Georgia.

Vilar will wrestle at William Penn University in Oskaloosa, Iowa, which is also an NAIA school. William Penn has a competitive program, finishing fourth at NAIA nationals this year.

“They have a lot of solid girls,” said Vilar, who placed second at the state

girls wrestling championships in the 135-pound weight class.

“I’m strong and fast, but I want to work on my technique,” Vilar said.

Vilar and Fries joined FPC teammates Mariah Mills (West Liberty University), Christina Borgmann (Felician University) and Kendall Bibla (Lindsey Wilson College) to sign with college women’s wrestling programs. The five seniors helped the Bulldogs win the state championship this year with Borgmann and Bibla each winning a state title for the second time.

Daily signed with Trinity Baptist College of Jacksonville, which competes in the National Christian College Athletic Association. Zecca signed with the University of Fort Lauderdale, which also competes in the NCCAA. De Campos signed with Word of Life Bible Institute of Pottersville, New York, which competes in the U.S. Collegiate Athletic Association.

Daily, Zecca and De Campos join teammates Jack Moberly and Evan Papadakos in signing to play college soccer.

Perez signed a women’s basketball letter of intent with Trinity Baptist College.

SIGNEES

FPC 2025 COLLEGE ATHLETIC

Christina Borgmann, Women’s Wrestling, Felician University (New Jersey)

Tiana Fries, Women’s Wrestling, Brewton-Parker College (Georgia)

Ana Vilar, Women’s Wrestling, William Penn University (Iowa) Kendall Bibla, Women’s Wrestling, Lindsey Wilson College (Kentucky)

Mariah Mills, Women’s Wrestling, West Liberty University (West Virginia)

TJ McLean, Men’s Wrestling, Brewton Parker College (Georgia)

Alexandra Perez, Girls Basketball, Trinity Baptist University (Jacksonville)

Marcus Mitchell, Football, Missouri Valley College (Missouri)

Carson Kato, Football, Webber International University (Babson Park)

Mikhail Zysek, Football, Florida Memorial University (Miami Gardens)

Colby Cronk, Football, North Carolina State University

Roman Caliendo, Football, Shorter University (Georgia)

Corinthians Watson, Football, St. Thomas University (Miami

Gardens)

Jemon Little, Football, Anna Maria College (Massachusetts)

Skylar Ludovici, Softball, Montreat College (North Carolina)

Ashleigh Pigeon, Softball, Flagler College (St. Augustine)

Sadie Schell, Softball, Keiser University (West Palm Beach)

Jack Moberly, Men’s Soccer, Toccoa Falls College (Georgia)

Evan Papadakos, Men’s Soccer, Toccoa Falls College (Georgia)

Noah Daily, Men’s Soccer, Trinity Baptist College (Jacksonville)

Felipe De Campos, Men’s Soccer, Word of Life Bible Institute (New York State)

Jace Zecca, Men’s Soccer, University of Fort Lauderdale (Lauderhill)

Brenin Striplin, Baseball, Pennsylvania Western Clarion University

Nathan Pertoso, Baseball, Mitchell College (Connecticut)

Logan Shudy, Baseball, Lesley University (Massachusetts)

Alana Throne, Women’s Lacrosse, St. Thomas University (Miami Gardens)

Ashley McPhail, Women’s Lacrosse, Coker University (South Carolina)

Mikhail Zysek will play football for Florida Memorial University in Miami Gardens. Courtesy photos

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HANDYMAN HARPER’S HANDYMAN

death was January 19, 2025; that the total value of the estate is less than $75,000; and that the names and addresses of those to whom it will be assigned by such order are: Name Address Leslie A. Young 1248 N. Grandview Avenue Daytona Beach, Florida 32218

Christopher Michael Browne 210 Glamis Road, Unit 52 Cambridge, Ontario N1R 6L3 ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE NO -

TIFIED THAT: All creditors of the estate of the decedent and persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent, other than those for whom payment is proposed in the Petition for Summary Administration, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702. ALL CLAIMS AND DEMANDS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING ANY OTHER APPLICABLE TIME PERIOD, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is June 5, 2025. Person Giving Notice: Leslie A. Young, Petitioner 1248 N. Grandview Avenue Daytona Beach, Florida 32218

Attorneys for Person Giving Notice: /s/ Stephen P. Holmgren STEPHEN P. HOLMGREN Florida Bar Number: 117761 Attorney for Petitioner Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene, P.A. 1548 Lancaster Terrace Jacksonville, Florida 32204 Telephone: (904) 355-0355 Email: sholmgren@pfhglaw.com Secondary Email: lbaird@pfhglaw.com June 5, 12, 2025 25-00259I

NOTICE OF SALE PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 45 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. CIVIL DIVISION CASE NO. 2022 11609 CIDL US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. RITA FORTE A/K/A RITA FORTE D’ANTHONY; TRENTHAM WELL DRILLING, INC.; TARGET NATIONAL BANK / TARGET VISA; STEAMBOAT PROPERTY INVESTMENTS, LLC; ATHENOS LENDING, INC; UNKNOWN TENANT NO. 1; UNKNOWN TENANT NO. 2; and ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES CLAIMING INTERESTS BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST A NAMED DEFENDANT TO THIS ACTION, OR HAVING OR CLAIMING TO HAVE ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY HEREIN DESCRIBED, Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to an Order or Summary Final Judgment of foreclosure dated April 23, 2025, and entered in Case No. 2022 11609 CIDL of the Circuit Court in and for Volusia County, Florida, wherein US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST is Plaintiff and RITA FORTE A/K/A RITA FORTE D’ANTHONY; TRENTHAM WELL DRILLING, INC.; TARGET NATIONAL BANK / TARGET VISA; STEAMBOAT PROPERTY INVESTMENTS, LLC; ATHENOS LENDING, INC; UNKNOWN TENANT NO. 1; UNKNOWN TENANT NO. 2; and ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES CLAIMING INTERESTS BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST A NAMED DEFENDANT TO THIS ACTION, OR HAVING OR CLAIMING TO HAVE ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY HEREIN DESCRIBED, are Defendants, LAURA E. ROTH, Clerk of the Circuit Court, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash www. volusia.realforeclose.com, 11:00 a.m., on August 26, 2025 , the following described property as set forth in said Order or Final Judgment, to-wit: LOTS 16, 17 AND 18, BLOCK B, REPLAT OF BLOCKS A, B & C, 2ND ADDITION TO ORANGE CITY TERRACE, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 19, PAGE 187, PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. ANY PERSON CLAIMING AN INTER-

EST IN THE SURPLUS FROM THE SALE, IF ANY, OTHER THAN THE PROPERTY OWNER AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MUST FILE A CLAIM BEFORE THE CLERK REPORTS THE SURPLUS AS UNCLAIMED. THE COURT, IN ITS DESCRETION, MAY ENLARGE THE TIME OF THE SALE.

NOTICE OF THE CHANGED TIME OF SALE SHALL BE PUBLISHED AS PROVIDED HEREIN.

Pursuant to Florida Statute 45.031(2), this notice shall be published twice, once a week for two consecutive weeks, with the last publication being at least 5 days prior to the sale. REQUESTS FOR ACCOMMODATIONS BY PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, (386) 257-6096, at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.

THESE ARE NOT COURT INFORMATION NUMBERS

SOLICITUD DE ADAPTACIONES

PARA PERSONAS CON DISCAPACIDADES

Si usted es una persona con discapacidad que necesita una adaptacin para poder participar en este procedimiento, usted tiene el derecho a que se le proporcione cierta asistencia, sin incurrir en gastos. Comunquese con la Oficina de Administracin Judicial (Court Administration), 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, (386) 257-6096, con no menos de 7 das de antelacin de su cita de comparecencia ante el juez, o de inmediato al recibir esta notificacin si la cita de comparecencia est dentro de un plazo menos de 7 das; si usted tiene una discapacidad del habla o del odo, llame al 711.

ESTOS NUMEROS TELEFONICOS NO SON PARA OBTENER INFORMACION JUDICIAL

DATED May 30, 2025. By: /s/ Ian Dolan Ian C. Dolan Florida Bar No.: 757071 Roy Diaz, Attorney of Record Florida Bar No. 767700 Diaz Anselmo & Associates, P.A. Attorneys for Plaintiff 499 NW 70th Ave., Suite 309 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33317 Telephone: (954) 564-0071 Facsimile: (954) 564-9252 Service E-mail: answers@dallegal.com 1491-180342 / SM2 June 5, 12, 2025 25-00260I

FIRST INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR

AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by

cedent or the decedent’s

spouse is

Disposition of

732.216732.228, Florida Statutes,

demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is June 5, 2025. Personal Representative: Keri BeDell 451 Gano