Ormond Beach Observer 09-04-25

Police investigation into Riverbend is ongoing

Caley and Jaycee Alley hold up some of the dresses for The Dress Loop’s first dress drive. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

NEWS BRIEFS

Ormond Beach Fire responds to structure fire on Highland Avenue

A house in the 100 block of Higihland Avenue caught on fire after a candle was left unattended on Wednesday, Aug. 27.

The Ormond Beach Fire Department responded to the structure fire around 8:20 p.m., according to the agency’s post on Facebook.

The unattended candle ignited a mattress and dresses, but was contained within the room, OBFD reported.

All of the home’s residents were safe and not displaced; OBFD also rescued two cats and a dog.

OBFD issued a reminder to never leave candles unattended and to keep flammable items away from open flames as a prevention measure.

COPS CORNER

AUG. 18

‘SOVEREIGN CITIZEN’

11:45 a.m. — 300 block of West Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach

Resisting an officer without violence. A 35-year-old California woman refused to provide her driver’s license to police after she was pulled over for having an expired tag, stating she was a “sovereign citizen” and exempt from laws.

Warrants served for alleged Palm Coast drug trafficker

Following a lengthy investigation by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit, detectives served three arrest warrants on Tram Nguyen, 37, a Palm Coast drug trafficker and current inmate at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility. These warrants stem from a series of undercover narcotics purchases that occurred earlier this year.

On Aug. 25, SIU detectives obtained three warrants for Nguyen for trafficking in meth-

According to her arrest report, the woman continued to refuse to follow the officer’s orders, and the officer called for additional units to help. She eventually handed over her driver’s license after the officer ordered her out of the vehicle and opened her door. She was arrested for resisting, and continued to resist as she was placed inside the patrol car. After being transported to the police department, she asked for an ambulance, stating she would not survive transport to the jail due to “heat and panic.” After she was cleared at the hospital, she was taken to jail. Police also discovered she didn’t have valid car insurance

AUG. 24

‘UNTOUCHABLE’ MAN ARRESTED

5:29 p.m. — 1300 block of

amphetamine (28 grams to 200 grams), sale of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a place of worship, sale of cocaine within 1,000 feet of a place of worship, and other charges.

Detectives served the warrants at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, where Nguyen has been in custody since May 27, when she was arrested after deputies found narcotics in her vehicle during a traffic stop.

“This poison peddler has already been in jail for the last few months, and now she is facing even more charges,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “... Our team works diligently to put drug dealers in the Green Roof Inn before they can sell a fatal dose.”

Nguyen is being held in jail on a $337,500 bond.

Ormond’s Highbridge Park to close temporarily

Highbridge Park, located at 39 Highbridge Road in Ormond Beach, will close

North Woodland Boulevard, DeLand

Disturbing the peace. Deputies arrested a 47-year-old Ormond Beach man who was being disorderly at a fast-food restaurant in DeLand.

The man had been spotted leaving from a motel he had been previously trespassed with a box of of alcoholic tea. Deputies were investigating this when they received the call about a patron yelling at other customers at the restaurant.

Deputies responded, and when the man caught side of them, he tried to walk away. He was quickly detained.

The man told deputies he was a “20 gang member” and that he could do as he wishes because he is “untouchable.”

from Sept. 8-19 for parking lot

repair. The park, boat ramp, and fishing pier will reopen Sept. 20.

This one-acre park provides access to the Halifax River with a free canoe launch and boat ramp. A fishing pier winds under the Highbridge Road Bridge.

For more information, contact Parks, Recreation and Culture Director Tim Baylie at tbaylie@volusia.org.

Volusia County Council’s Troy Kent to host district meeting

Volusia County Council District 4 Member Troy Kent will host a community meeting from 5 to 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 15, at Holly Hill City Hall, 1065 S. Ridgewood Ave. Residents can ask questions and voice concerns during this open discussion.

This is part of Kent’s quarterly District Dialogue 4 Residents series. His district includes Ormond Beach, Ormond-by-the-Sea, Holly Hill, the western half of Day-

He was taken to jail.

AUG. 26

AN ALLERGY PROBLEM

3:45 p.m. – 5100 block of State Road 100, Palm Coast Petit theft. A Jacksonville man was arrested by Sheriff’s Office deputies when he was caught with over $500 in stolen allergy medication.

A department store contacted the Sheriff’s Office about the theft and a nearby deputy pulled the suspect over in the store’s parking lot. On the passenger seat of the suspect’s car were multiple boxes of several antihistamines and allergy medications, according to the man’s arrest report.

The suspect refused to answer any questions, but

tona Beach, and eastern portions of DeLand and DeLeon Springs.

Reservations are not required. For more information, call the County Manager’s Office at 386-736-5920.

Registration open for Flagler County’s 2026 Citizens’ Academy

Registration is open for the 2026 Flagler County Citizens’ Academy that will be held on Wednesday mornings beginning February 18, and officials invite residents to treat themselves to this enriching educational endeavor. The course is designed to introduce participants to the dayto-day operations of Flagler County government, inclusive of its elected Constitutional Officers.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for residents to learn about the responsibilities and operations of our county departments and because the classes are held at a variety of county facilities, participants experience first-hand

surveillance footage showed the suspect picking up the medications and stuffing them in his pant’s waistband before leaving the store. The suspect stole 15 boxes medications, totaling $527.85.

Between 1999 and 2024, the suspect had eight prior convictions for theft. He was charged with petit theft and taken to jail.

AUG. 26

THE SILENT TYPE

12:22 p.m. – 400 block of South Ocean Shore Boulevard, Flagler Beach, Shoplifting. A Jacksonville man was arrested after he stole $6.82 worth of drinks from a Flagler Beach gas station.

the broad range of resources and capabilities that Flagler County provides,” said County Administrator Heidi Petito. “Local governments that support and encourage resident participation in its citizens academy is essential to foster a deeper understanding of civic responsibilities, governance structures, and the policymaking process.” The academy will be held on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon, and it will wrap up with a 13th session – a Monday afternoon Board of County Commissioners Roundtable at 4 p.m. May 18, followed by graduation at the regular BOCC meeting that begins at 5 p.m. There is no fee to attend this program, but Flagler County requires all participants to register as the class size is limited to 24 participants. Participants are asked to commit to attending all sessions.

Visit www.FlaglerCounty. gov/academy. Registrations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis of those county residents able to attend all sessions.

The store owner called the police when the man walked out with a soda and an energy drink, only for the man to sit down across the street at a table. When police arrived, the man was placed under arrest for shoplifting. However, the man refused to identify himself to police. Though he was asked multiple times, and refused to cooperate with the fingerprinting process, the man was eventually booked into the jail under the alias “John Doe.” He sat in the jail for a day until the Sheriff’s Office facial recognition system identified him. The man was additionally charged with obstructing police without violence.

Ormond Beach Fire responds to a structure fire in the 100 block of Highland Avenue. Courtesy of the OBFD Facebook

Ormond Beach Police equips patrol cars with AEDs

First responders

JARLEENE

ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

The Ormond Beach Police Department has added another tool to combat opioid induced overdoses: Automated external defibrillators.

The police department received 75 AEDs last week thanks to a $54,000 grant from Volusia County’s Opioid Abatement Funding program. Each patrol car will be equipped with an AED within the next two weeks.

When OBPD heard about the available funding, Lt. John Borzner said they started researching new ways the department could approach overdose calls to prevent deaths.

“A lot of times in an overdose situation, what it does is it causes the individual to go

STUDY SUPPORTS

AEDS FOR POLICE

A 2022 study by researchers from the University of Michigan found that non-medical first responders, such as police, “may be an underutilized, potentially powerful mechanism” for improving survival of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest outcomes.

into cardiac arrest,” Borzner said. “And even with Narcan — and stuff like that — that might be able to start reversing the effects of the drug, it could still put their heart in a rhythm that will not recover. That’s obviously where the AED will come into play.”

OBPD’s officers are already trained on how to use AEDs.

Borzner said that’s part of their CPR training every two years. Additionally, AEDs are available in different locations throughout the city, including recreational facilities and City Hall.

But having them in patrol cars with officers means a better chance of increasing response times overall, as Borzner explained that in some overdose calls, officers are called in first to ensure the scene is safe for paramedics or fire rescue.

In such scenarios, “minutes really do matter,” said Ormond Beach City Commissioner and Deputy Mayor Lori Tolland, who serves on the county’s Opioid Abatement Advisory Board.

“It’s all about timing,” said Tolland, a retired registered nurse. “And if they are the first ones to get to a site, they can start this process before the EMTs get there.” When

“It’s all about timing. And if they are the first ones to get to a site, they can start this process before the EMTs get there.”

LORI TOLLAND, Ormond Beach city commissioner

Ormond Beach, she reached out to staff to let them know that the grant cycle was open.

The City Commission approved the grant award from the county program at its meeting on April 15. According to a city staff report, the city had submitted an application for funding on Nov. 19, 2024, for the application cycle that opened in October 2024, where $4 million were available.

The advisory board was established in 2022 after the county received over $35 million in settlement funds from a 2018 state lawsuit against opioid manufacturers and distributors for their role in the ongoing opioid epidemic.

OBPD responded to over 30 overdose calls within the city in 2024, according to the city staff report for the grant award.

The agency announced the new AEDs in a press release on Aug. 29, stating that “having them readily available in patrol cars ensures officers are better prepared to take immediate, potentially life-saving action.”

“The addition of the AEDs for each officer reflects our commitment to serving Ormond Beach with the highest quality of care and

preparedness,” Police Chief Jesse Godfrey said in the press release.

AEDs are user-friendly. Though OBPD’s officers are trained, the device itself walks the user through the steps to administer the electrical shock to the person in need.

It’s not uncommon for local law enforcement to carry them. Daytona Beach Shores — whose public safety officers have the duties of sworn police officers, firefighters and EMTs — has equipped all of its public safety vehicles with AEDs. The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office also has AEDs, but mostly for the rural areas.

There’s no downsides to having law enforcements be equipped with AEDs, Borzner said.

“It’s one of those things that it’s better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it,” he said. “... The only thing it can do is help increase the chance of survival for somebody in cardiac arrest.”

And that could be anybody — an overdose patient or a citizen playing tennis, like what happened at Oceanside Country Club in March of this year where a player collapsed

“It’s one of those things that it’s better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it. ... The only thing it can do is help increase the chance of survival for somebody in cardiac arrest.”

LT. JOHN BORZNER, Ormond Beach Police

on the court due to cardiac arrest; he was saved through CPR and the use of an onsite AED. OBPD spokesperson Pauline Dulang said the department is grateful for the commission’s support of public safety.

“This really just reflects the amount of quality and care that we put toward serving the Ormond Beach community,” Dulang said. “We really want to do our best with what we have and we just really care.”

Ormond Beach Police Sgt. Caleb Braun and Officer Josh Morris hold the AEDs outside a patrol vehicle.

Ormond Beach Police Lt. John Borzner and City Commissioner Lori Tolland hold the new AEDs. Photos by Jarleene Almenas

A glimpse into what the AED looks like once opened.

Registered nurse files to run in Zone 1 race

Coleen McMahon filed to run for Ormond seat, currently held by City Commissioner Lori Tolland, on Aug. 14.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING

EDITOR

With elections about a year away, a new candidate for Zone 1 in Ormond Beach has emerged.

Registered nurse Coleen McMahon filed to run for the seat, currently held by City Commissioner Lori Tolland, on Aug. 14. McMahon lived in the area from 2000 to 2006 before moving out to Las Vegas, Nevada. She moved to Ormond Beach two years ago and said she decided to run for office because she saw a need for more transparency and fiscal accountability in local government.

“I believe that we need something more simple — more powerful — where the government should be working for the people, not the other way around,” McMahon said. “We need transparency and we need accountability in respect to our hard-earned tax dollars.”

While the majority of her career has been in health care, McMahon also holds a broker license. Her background also

“Taxpayers deserve to know where their money is going, and they deserve to have a leader who will answer them, not dodge them.”

COLEEN MCMAHON

includes working in a director of business development for a national company and in insurance.

In addition to transparency, McMahon said the city needs to keep watch on development, flooding concerns and have workshops where citizens can ask questions.

She never aspired to politics, she said. But, when she recently began attending commission workshops, and saw a need for more transparency, she said she didn’t think she could walk away without trying to find solutions.

McMahon said she is excited to be running and decided to throw her hat in the ring early because she wants time to meet people and hear their perspectives.

“I would fight for open government,” McMahon said. “I would fight for fair access to public records and a clear communication around every taxpayer funded project. Taxpayers deserve to know where their money is going, and they deserve to have a leader who will answer them, not dodge them.”

Riverbend elder ousted after sexual allegations

Police are investigating 48-year-old Heyward Evans, who allegedly admitted to church leaders that he groped, kissed three teenage girls 20 years ago.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

A worship leader at Riverbend Community Church has been removed from his role following allegations of sexual misconduct with teenaged girls about 20 years ago.

Ormond Beach Police received a call on Aug. 18, from a concerned parent of a child who attends Riverbend Academy after the parent received an email from the school informing that a teacher and worship leader, 48-year-old Heyward Evans, had confessed to church elders that he engaged in misconduct with female high school students who were members of the church while he was in a leadership position.

The email by Pastor Jason Karr informed parents, according to a police incident report, that Evans had been removed from his position with the school and church leadership.

“Mr. Evans has expressed that he has repented and that he understands and accepts these consequences,” Karr wrote. “These actions were unacceptable and displeasing in the sight of God, and due to their seriousness, we have reported the incidents.”

The church addressed Evans’ removal as worship leader in a members’ meeting held on Aug. 13, based on a recording sent anonymously

to the Observer.

In the meeting, church pastor Josh Brown read a letter stating that Riverbend had been the object of “many pointed comments online” following a social media post made on July 13 by a former female church member, whom he said the church had met with recently.

The Reddit post, Brown said, made the church aware of various past accusations, many involving Evans.

“We began to speak with Heyward about those allegations and where they could be coming from,” Brown said. “Heyward denied and still denies the online allegations. However, over the course of multiple conversations, he has willingly recounted all of his romantic history, and acknowledged that there were people in his past that have been emotionally hurt by his actions. During these conversations, as details were discussed, the elders became

aware of some sins in his distant past that upon examination, prayer and consideration would make him unable to continue in his position as worship leader, being above reproach.”

Brown said that Evans had repented and that he is in “right standing with the church.”

“This isn’t a church discipline meeting,” Brown said.

“This is just a change in a staff position.”

During his 20-minute address, Brown said the church seeks to be transparent in light of ongoing allegations. He said Riverbend is “exploring a third-party organization to potentially do an evaluation to determine where there is any truth, where there is any falsehood, to seek to exonerate any names that are accused, and as well as know how we can improve overall, our church as an organization.”

Following the call from the concerned parent on Aug. 18,

police spoke with Karr, who said church elders had recently become aware of an internet forum on Reddit where an anonymous user had made allegations that Evans was a “pedophile.”

Karr told OBPD that he and other church elders met with Evans to confront him over the allegations, at which point he admitted that he “kissed and groped the breasts (over the clothing) of three female teenaged church members” about 20 years ago, according to the incident report. All three victims were around 16 or 17 years old. Evans, who named all three victims, was in his late 20s at the time.

OBPD has been in contact with the victims. The Observer reached out to Brown and Evans for comment, but did not receive a response in time for publication.

Email Almenas at jarleene@ observerlocalnews.com.

Riverbend Community Church is located at 2080 W. Granada Blvd. Detectives are seeking to speak with anyone who may have information or believes they may have been a victim. Photo courtesy of Google Maps

Coleen McMahon. Courtesy photo

Most restrictions on house colors removed in final Palm Coast vote

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

After reviewing many shades of revisions, the Palm Coast City Council has finally approved its new house color regulations.

The new ordinance removes the restrictions of a Light Reflective Value scale for single-family residential homes and keeps a small list of prohibited colors: fluorescent colors and any shade of purple, fuchsia, magenta and orange. The changes only apply to single-family residential homes; multi-family homes and nonresidential buildings must still use the LRV scale and the restrictions within the city’s code.

The council voted 4-1 to approve the new regulations, with Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri dissenting, at the Sept. 2 meeting. The issue was quickly voted on, with no additional discussion by the council.

“This is only three years in the making,” Mayor Mike Norris said.

In the most recent iteration, the council has been reviewing different versions of an amended house color ordinance since early 2024. Pontieri, who voted against

the ordinance on Aug. 19 as well, had said in the past that she would like to see it on a referendum instead. The issue is divisive, with some people wanting no restrictions and others wanting to keep the restrictions on house colors in place. Pontieri said on July 15 that she felt some restrictions would balance the rights of both sides.

“Reasonable regulation is in place for a reason,” Pontieri said at the July 15 meeting.

NEW APPOINTEES FOR TWO COMMITTEES

The Palm Coast City Council has selected two new appointees to fill vacancies on the Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee and the Citizen Advisory Committee.

The positions were filled by vote by the council members at the Sept. 2 meeting.

Councilman Ty Miller, who represents Palm Coast on the Volusia-Flagler Transportation Planning Organization that oversees these committees, thanked everyone who applied.

He said one of the reasons the seats were open was because the appointees had not attended the meetings In recent months.

“I just want to ensure those

FPL reached with businesses and other groups this month.

Florida Power

& Light blasts foes’ rate proposal

Florida Power & Light on Friday blasted a proposed rate settlement offered by the state Office of Public Counsel and some consumer groups, calling it “illusory and unenforceable” and urging regulators to reject it.

FPL filed a response three days after the Office of Public Counsel — an agency designated in state law to represent consumers in utility issues — and four groups filed what was described as a “counter proposal” at the Florida Public Service Commission. The Office of Public Counsel and its allies oppose a proposed settlement that

“Simply put, what the movants (the Office of Public Counsel and the four groups) have filed is not a settlement at all,” FPL attorneys wrote in the 14-page response. “Calling the documents that the movants filed a settlement defies general common sense; walks dangerously close to a bad faith filing from a legal perspective; and, at best, is a ham-handed media stunt that attempts to turn this proceeding into a circus.”

The Public Service Commission is scheduled in October to hold a hearing in the base-rate case, which likely will lead to FPL customers paying billions of additional dollars over the next four years.

The plan filed Tuesday, Aug. 26, by the Office of Public Counsel and the groups Florida Rising, the League of

applying understand the importance of showing up,” Miller said. “I feel like there’s never really an excuse except for when you’re in an emergency situation to not attend.”

For the BPAC, David Lybarger was selected as the primary to fill that open seat and Anthony Del Valle was selected as the alternate if Lybarger is absent. Lybarger is a business owner and Del Valle a corporate security manager, according to their applications. They were the only two applicants.

The BPAC is responsible for reviewing plans, policies and procedures related to bicycle and pedestrian issues with the TPO. The committee also annually ranks bicycle and pedestrian priority project applications during the TPO’s Call for Projects.

The Citizen Advisory Committee had one seat available and one alternate seat available and four applicants. Del Valle was selected as the primary for the CAC and Mark Woods, a business owner, was selected as the alternate.

The CAC provides citizen input and recommendations to the TPO Board on transportation planning and programming.

United Latin American Citizens of Florida, Environmental Confederation of Southwest Florida and Floridians Against Increased Rate would lead to smaller increases than a proposed settlement filed Aug. 20 by FPL and numerous businesses and groups.

In Tuesday’s filing, the Office of Public Counsel and its allies identified themselves as the “customer majority parties,” while identifying the parties in FPL’s proposed settlement as the “special interest parties.”

“The majority settlement agreement (the proposal filed by the Office of Public Coun sel and its allies) contains proposed resolutions which fully resolve all of the issues in (the case) and results in cus tomer rates that are actually in the public interest and not disproportionately favorable to the special interest par ties,” Tuesday’s filing said.

Ormond mayor: No discussion on eliminating youth sports

Social media claims circulate. City makes further budget cuts.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

Defunding youth sports? That hasn’t been discussed, Ormond Beach mayor Jason Leslie said.

A Facebook post published on local community groups on Wednesday, Aug. 27, stated that the mayor planned to propose cutting funding for all city recreational sports in order to “shift dollars elsewhere.”

The post asked the community to attend the City Commission meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 3 — where the commission will vote on the budget — to protect youth sports.

Leslie said the post’s claims are untrue.

“There has been no discussion by myself or the Commission to eliminate Ormond Beach Sports,” he said in a statement to the Observer “This is exactly the kind of rumor that gets started by political opponents to create unnecessary fear and confusion.”

House panel to look at property taxes

As Gov. Ron DeSantis pushes to slash property taxes, a House select committee is expected to meet Sept. 22 and Sept. 23 to resume looking at the issue.

The House Select Committee on Property Taxes is tentatively scheduled to meet

The Ormond Beach City Commission last discussed the budget for fiscal year 2025-2026 at its workshop on Aug. 19, during which they reduced the budget by cutting funding for vehicle and equipment replacement, an IT analyst position and a Consumer Price Index adjustment for the city’s landscaping contract.

The proposed tax rate increase went from 10.2% to 7.66%.

At the Aug. 19 workshop, the mayor did say he wanted further cuts, but when asked by commissioners for ideas on where to trim the budget down further, Leslie said he’d need time to think about it.

City staff reported that further budget cuts would lead to service reductions, particularly in parks and recreation, and likely would need to include recreational facility closures.

Cutting funding from youth sports was not an option discussed at the workshop, nor presented by city staff.

Following that workshop, staff reduced the tax rate by another 0.03 mills. Finance Director Kelly McGuire said in an email that this came after an update from the city’s brokers that the insurance market would likely provide a flat

during the afternoon of Sept. 22 and the morning of Sept. 23, according to a document posted on the House website.

Speaker Daniel Perez, RMiami, established the select committee this spring, and it met twice in May.

DeSantis wants lawmakers to place a proposed constitutional amendment on the November 2026 ballot aimed at cutting property taxes.

renewal, reducing the budget by $175,000.

A memo dated Sept. 3 from City Attorney Randy Hayes to the commission stated two options will be presented for consideration: A millage rate of 4.4497, or a rollback rate of 3.9672 mills.

“This option is based on the mayor’s withdrawal of support for Option 1 that he agreed to at the August 19 workshop, and his stated intention on social media posts to seek further budget reductions,” Hayes wrote. “Option 2 will require the city commission to make significant reductions to the budget in funding for police, fire, utilities, recreation and leisure services (for children and elderly people), general services, and facilities.” Hayes encouraged the commission approve a tax rate increase due to “financialrisks and liabilities associated with the mayor’s intention to seek deep reductions in the millage rate and the budget, and the uncertainties those reductions would have on the ability of the city to deliver quality services to residents.”

“Sound fiscal management and responsible leadership require it.” Hayes wrote.

Lawmakers likely will consider the issue during the 2026 legislative session, which will start in January. DeSantis and state Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia have launched audits of some local governments as they try to build support for cutting property taxes. Local governments rely heavily on property taxes to fund services.

Planning ahead is simple. The benefits are immense.

When you plan ahead, you can make your final wishes known and provide your loved ones with true peace of mind.

$9 million in FEMA funding secured for Flagler’s northern beaches

The funding was stuck in red tape before U.S. Rep. Randy Fine said he stepped in to help get them released.

SIERRA WILLIAMS

STAFF WRITER

An additional almost $9 million in beach restoration funding that was tied up in bureaucratic red tape is on its way to Flagler’s beaches thanks in part to U.S. Rep. Randy Fine.

The money, from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, was already earmarked for Flagler County, both Fine and coastal engineer Ansley Wren-Key said at an Aug. 27 press conference, but was just awaiting a final approval before the funding could be released to the county. Fine said that he learned of the issue on his initial tour in Flagler County on the week of Aug. 15.

Wren-Key said the funding was for an application the county filed after Hurricane Milton in October 2024. Milton eroded most of the dunes in the area north of MalaCompra, she said, and Flagler County filed a damage report and application for funding to fix the issue the following January.

For a while, she received updates on the request’s progress, but those eventually stopped coming, she said. That was when Flagler County got the congressman involved.

Fine said he was able to

tackle this problem as soon as he left his tour of Flagler County’s beaches. He started making phone calls and, within days, the funds were approved.

“Every problem, I’m not going to be able to solve in two weeks,” Fine said, “but this was one that we were able to, and we’re proud to do it.”

Fine credited the holdup to bureaucracy within FEMA.

“At the end of the day, it’s not about how big the government is. It’s not about how many employees it has,” he said. “It’s about, is it serving the needs of the people?”

The almost $9 million in federal funding will be applied to the beaches from MalaCompra to Marineland, Wren-Key said, and could begin on Nov. 1. Flagler County already has dune restoration projects ongoing, and the county would just need to extend the contract with the current contractor. Flagler County Commission Chair Andy Dance called Flagler’s beaches “the backbone of our community’s natural infrastructure, economy, and identity.”

“Over the last decade, storms and hurricanes have

reminded us how fragile our coastline is,” Dance said. “But also how resilient Flagler County can be when we work hand in hand with our partners.”

Fine said he lives on the beach and has had two homes in his family lost to hurricanes. Through his experience, he said he understands the challenges of dune restoration. One of the reasons he was willing to make the phone calls on behalf of Flagler County, he said, is because Flagler is approaching beach restoration “the right way.”

The natural solution of the roots of plants in the dunes to hold the sand in place is the best solution to dune erosion, he said.

“We have to return to natural dunes with natural growth on those dunes to hold the sand into place,” he said.

Fine said it is important that Florida preserve its natural areas and said it is “the single largest local issue.”

“Whether it’s our beaches, the Intracoastal Waterway, the St. Johns River, our springs, our rivers, our lakes,” Fine said, “if we don’t preserve those, we lose what makes Florida Florida.”

“Whether it’s our beaches, the Intracoastal Waterway, the St. Johns River, our springs, our rivers, our lakes. If we don’t preserve those, we lose what makes Florida Florida.” — RANDY FINE

Teens-In-Flight President Lehman, 69, unexpectedly dies on Aug. 22

‘Ric

embodied the spirit of service that defines our organization,’ said Col. Howell, founder.

OBSERVER STAFF

Teens-In-Flight announced last week the unexpected death of President Ricky Carson “Ric” Lehman on Thursday, Aug. 22, at his residence in Palm Coast.

“Ric’s passion, selflessness, and dedication helped lift the mission of Teens-In-Flight and changed countless young lives in our community,” a press release stated.

Born Nov. 11, 1955, in Battle Creek, Michigan, Carson was a graduate of Union City High School and Western Michigan University. A licensed pilot and ground flight instructor, he brought decades of aviation expertise to his role as executive director, vice president, and board member for Teens-In-Flight. His professional background also included leadership positions as executive director of Spirit Horse International and president of Haven Horse Ranch in Northeast Florida.

“Ric embodied the spirit of service that defines our organization,” said Col. Jack Howell, founder of Teens-InFlight. “As both a skilled aviator and devoted Christian, he consistently sought ways to use his talents to serve others and inspire young people to reach new heights through aviation.”

The Board of Directors and Teens-In-Flight family have come together, committed to carrying Ric’s vision forward, the press release stated. At the organization’s regularly scheduled board meeting on Saturday, Aug. 23, Howell was unanimously voted in as president. Howell, who is the founder and previously served as president, brings years of leadership and a deep dedication to the nonprofit’s continued service and impact.

“We are heartbroken by Ric’s passing, but united in our resolve to honor his legacy and keep his spirit alive in our mission,” Howell said. “Together, we will continue to empower young people through aviation, just as Ric would have wanted.”

Ric is survived by his wife, Levita Garnett Lehman; his mother, Rulah Eloise; his sister, Cindy; sons Jarret and Jayce; stepdaughter Sara;

and seven grandchildren. A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 5, at Parkview Church, 5435 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast.

“Teens-In-Flight remains committed to supporting local youth and beyond through aviation education and is grateful for the outpouring of support from the community during this challenging time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Teens-In-Flight in Ric’s memory,” the press release stated.

The organization is located at 275 Old Moody Blvd., at the Flagler Executive Airport. Call 386-345-2FLY. For more information or to support Teens-In-Flight, visit teensinflight.org.

Congressman Randy Fine and the Flagler County officials after a press conference. Courtesy photo

Ricky Carson “Ric” Lehman (center, left) attends a ribbon cutting for Teens-In-Flight’s new hanger in 2022. Courtesy photo

Teens-In-Flight President Ricky Carson “Ric” Lehman

Ormond Beach cancer survivor honored at the Coke Zero Sugar 400

Corrine Graczewski was the first in Volusia and Flagler counties to receive a new cancer treatment.

ADVENTHEALTH COMMUNICATIONS

During this year’s Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway, millions of fans who tuned into the broadcast saw the name Corrine Graczewski speed past them on the car driven by NASCAR Cup Series driver Erik Jones.

For Graczewski, a 72-yearold cancer survivor from Ormond Beach and lifelong racing fan, it was a full-circle moment. She wasn’t just watching the race. She was part of it.

Graczewski was selected as one of 82 Cancer Heroes in three different series for the Martin Truex Jr. Foundation and The NASCAR Foundation’s Honor a Cancer Hero program, an initiative that celebrates individuals who have faced cancer head-on. Her

name appeared on Jones’ car through a partnership between AdventHealth and Legacy Motor Club, paying tribute to her journey and uplifting cancer heroes everywhere.

“I couldn’t believe it,” Graczewski said. “My name on a race car — and Erik Jones’ car, no less! We’ve followed NASCAR for years. My son even raced Joey Logano when they were kids in Connecticut. This just means the world to me and my family.”

Graczewski’s cancer story began in 2020, when what appeared to be appendicitis turned out to be something far more serious. A CT scan revealed three different types of cancer — in her kidney, colon, and a rare neuroendocrine tumor. After surgery, including the removal of her left kidney, and remained cancer-free for nearly five years.

Then, earlier this year, her care team at AdventHealth Daytona Beach discovered a new tumor. This time, it was on her right adrenal gland, just millimeters from her only remaining kidney. It was a recurrence of her kidney cancer, and it required treatment

YOUR TOWN

Halifax chapter of MOAA resumes speaker series

The Halifax Area Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America’s 2025 speaker series is resuming in September.

The chapter — which represents retired, former ad active-duty military officers and their spouses — meets the fourth Thursday of every month at the Halifax River Yacht Club in Daytona Beach, save for June, July and August. The chapter is led by Chapter President retired Air Force Capt. Andrew Hoffman and its monthly luncheons feature guest speakers from the military, business, health and wellness, and civic communities, according to a press release.

“Our national motto is ‘Never Stop Serving,’ and that’s

with exceptional accuracy.

She became the first in Volusia and Flagler counties to receive Ethos adaptive radiation therapy, an advanced technology that adjusts in real time to a patient’s anatomy.

Ethos is part of a new generation of radiation therapy. By adapting to subtle shifts in tumor and organ position, Ethos helps protect healthy tissue while targeting the cancer with unmatched accuracy.

“This machine was ideal for me,” Graczewski said. “It pinpoints exactly where the doctor wants the treatment to go — it doesn’t affect the rest of your body. I got through all five treatments with no pain, no sickness, and only a little bit of tiredness.”

“It was kind of surreal,” she added. “They played music during treatment, and before I knew it — seven songs later — I was done. No clunking, no pain. It was peaceful.”

Radiation oncologist Dr. Shiv Desai, who led Graczewski’s treatment, said the technology allows doctors to tailor care with extraordinary

exactly what our members live by,” Hoffman said. “We are committed to supporting one another and advocating for earned benefits, healthcare, and family programs for those who have served and those still in uniform.”

The 2025 speaker series will include speakers such as Gary Wilson from the Wounded Warrior Umpire Academy, David Lydon from Flagler County Veterans Affairs, and Dr. Itzel Harriott, who is committed to providing affordable, trauma-informed counseling for underserved communities.

October’s meeting will

honor surviving spouses, and December’s will feature the chapter’s festive Holiday Gala and Silent Auction.

The chapter currently has 106 members. Among their community engagement initiatives are “Bagels and Bingo” at the Emory L. Bennett Veterans Nursing Home, “Coffee and Donuts” at the Daytona Veterans Affairs Clinic, and scholarships for high school students and university cadets. The chapter also provides gold bars to new officers.

To learn more or get involved, visit www.halifax chaptermoaa.com.

Graczewski will now begin immunotherapy under thetologist and oncologist at AdventHealth Daytona Beach. A mother of three andence is something she’ll never forget — not just for the thrill,

“Being part of the Coke Zero Sugar 400 is more than an honor. It’s a reminder that we’re not alone,” she said. “There’s so much life after cancer. And now, my name has literally been part of the

“This technology and this team gave me my life back,” she added. “We’ve got a cruise coming up, and I plan to enjoy

Corrine Graczewski, Erik Jones and Steve Graczewski smile next to the car car driven by Jones, a NASCAR Cup Series driver.

Corrine Graczewski and Dr. Shiv Desai. Courtesy photos

MOAA members participate in a July 4 parade. Courtesy photo

A powerful tribute: Flagler County prepares for 24th anniversary of 9/11

Over 200 people will participate in the fifth annual stair climb at Hammock Beach.

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The most powerful moment of the 9/11 Memorial Tribute Climb is at the top, event organizer Lacy Martin said. At the top of the Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa’s 10-flight staircase, Martin said, a bystander will see how much participants struggle with the climb. A lot of the participants are firefighters and first responders, but they still struggle and have to stop and take a breather at the top of the 10 flights.

“Just to think, on 9/11 they didn’t get to stop,” Martin said. “It is truly powerful up there. ... I always tell people to go up there, just so they can understand how difficult [it was].” Martin has been involved with the stair climb since its inception in 2021 when Flagler County initially ran it.

The first stair climb had just 12 participants, she said, and this year they are expecting that around 250 people will attempt the climb. The event commemorates the first responders who died

trying to save people stuck in the Twin Towers at the World Trade Center during the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attack. Firefighters had to climb 110 flights of stairs to get to the top of the towers.

The fifth annual tribute climb, commemorating the 24th anniversary of 9/11 will once again be held at the Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa on Sept. 11. Registration opens at 7:45 a.m. and the

ceremony begins at 8:15 a.m. At 8:46 a.m. — the same time that the first plane crashed into the North Tower at the World Trade Center — the climb will begin. Participants will climb 10 flights of

stairs 11 times to signify the 110 flights of stairs that first responders had to climb on 9/11 to rescue people trapped in the Twin Towers. On Sept. 11, 2001, four terrorists hijacked commercial

Fire Station 40 in The Hammock will be on standby for emergencies or medical events during the 9/11 Memorial Tribute Stair Climb at Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa.

Pictured: Firefighter and medical rescue supervisor Chris Newcomb; Firefighter EMT Wesley Libby; Firefighter paramedic Justin Stone; Firefighter paramedic Lt. Jon Moscowitz; Firefighter EMT Connor WIckon and Cpt. Michael Pius. Photos by Sierra Williams

A Flagler County Fire Rescue firefighter kneels, with a U.S. flag on his back, waiting for the stair climb to begin.

“Putting yourself in that moment, its like, ‘Wow, these people put their lives at risk every single day for what? For strangers?’ It really is a very powerful tribute.”

LACY MARTIN

airplanes. Two of the airplanes were crashed into the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers, in New York City; the towers collapsed. Another plane hit the Pentagon, while the fourth plane, headed for Washington, D.C., crashed in a field in Pennsylvania.

The attacks killed 2,977 people that day and remains the deadliest terrorist attack on American soil.

First responders rushed to the scene before the towers collapsed in an attempt to rescue people trapped in the two buildings. The firefighters had to climb 110 flights of stairs to get to the top. When the towers fell, 343 firefighters and 71 police officers died.

Martin said this year the climb will also honor those 71 police officers by including their names on the poker chips participants will carry up the flights of stairs. Participants receive their poker chips with the name of one of the first responders who died on 9/11 when they register on the morning of the event. Martin said the intent is the climber carry that first responder with them through the 110 flights.

Flagler County Fire Chief Mike Tucker said that when he thinks about 9/11, he thinks of all the families whose loved ones did not come home.

Tucker has participated in the stair climb every year, as do several other Flagler County Fire Rescue personnel. He thinks about those broken lives every time he climbs, he said.

“That’s what keeps me stepping and doing it, is just remembering them for the sacrifice they paid,” he said. After 40 years as a firefighter, Tucker said there have been a few times when he has

NEWS BRIEFS

Second Harvest seeks support during Hunger Action Month

As the region’s largest emergency food provider, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is calling on members of the community to take at least one action to help feed hope during the month of September.

Hunger Action Month is observed every September and with federal funding cuts threatening local hunger relief efforts, Second Harvest is asking for the community’s support.

In a press release, the organization states the community can help by:

„ Registering for the inaugural “Hunger Never Sleeps” 24-hour volunteer marathon

gone into a situation and not known if he would come out the other end.

“It goes through your mind,” he said. “It’s also one of the things you can’t stop to think about, because if you stop to think about that, you lose focus on what you need to do.”

Remembering 9/11 is more than just about the tragedy, Martin said. It’s about today’s first responders, too. At any time, an emergency could happen in which local first responders could have to jump into action, she said.

“Putting yourself in that moment, its like, ‘Wow, these people put their lives at risk every single day for what? For strangers?’” Martin said.

“It really is a very powerful tribute, whether it’s 9/11 or just the dangers facing first responders every single day.”

To be a firefighter is to be committed, Tucker said: There’s no halfway. Someone who is only partially committed can’t do what needs to be done because they are operating from the defensive, he said, instead of being more proactive.

“You’ve got to be all in,” he said.

Martin said she’s grateful for the support of the Flagler County community who shows up every year to participate and remember. Each year, she said, she’s determined to do her part in educating the next generations about 9/11 and to do her part to remember those who died.

“It’s just very special to me,” she said, “and it’s the very least I can do to make a difference.”

“That’s what keeps me stepping and doing it, is just remembering them for the sacrifice they paid.”

MIKE TUCKER, Flagler County Fire Rescue Chief

„ Wearing orange on Sept. 9 for Hunger Action Day

„ Attending a “Food for Thought” tour on Sept. 17

„ Donating 30 nonperishable food items

„ Hosting a virtual food drive

„ Purchasing “hunger fighter” merchandise to wear throughout September and beyond

„ Donating $30 for 30 days to help feed hope

„ Signing up to volunteer in Orlando or Melbourne to help sort and prepare food for distribution

„ Becoming a monthly meal maker

„ Taking a pledge to advocate for hunger relief

„ Liking and following

SHFBCF on social media.

“Community generosity ensures that we can continue meeting the rising need for food assistance across Central Florida,” said Derrick Chubbs, president and CEO.

“Hunger is a daily crisis for thousands of families who face tough decisions about paying for food, housing or health care each month. Every action counts – no matter when it’s taken. From volunteering … to donating … to sharing Second Harvest’s mission of feeding hope, we all have a role to play.”

Visit FeedHopeNow.org.

Palm Coast celebrates Epic Theatre’s epic renovations

The Palm Coast City Council celebrated the grand reopening of Epic Theatres of Palm Coast in Town Center on Aug. 27.

Council members held a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Epic Theatres staff to celebrate the theatre’s major renovation. The $1 million renovation included upgrades

to all 14 auditoriums with luxury electric recliners, enhanced lighting, new flooring and advanced acoustical improvements, a Palm Coast press release said.

The renovation of Epic Theatres “underscores Town Center’s growing appeal as a hub for living, working and playing,” the press release said.

“On behalf of the city, I want to thank Epic Theatres for investing in Palm Coast and believing in this community. I think we can all agree—this deserves a standing ovation,”

Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri said.

Epic Theatres also added an Epic XTS Auditorium and a LUX Theatre, the press release said. The Epic XTS Auditorium has a laserprojected, wall-to-wall screen with a 24-channel audio system and zero-gravity recliners that have shaker-seat audio imbedded for an immersive experience.

The LUX Theatre is exclusive to those 17 and older, with massaging recliners that have charging ports.

Volunteers sort food donations inside Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida’s main distribution center in Orlando, Florida.

Epic Theatres had a grand reopening ribbon cutting on Aug. 27. Courtesy of Palm Coast

Firefighter EMT Wesley Libby holds one of the hoses that would be used during a structure fire at a multi-storied building like the Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa.

NEWS BRIEFS

New City Hall for Bunnell, new Commerce Parkway

Bunnell and Flagler County celebrated the completion of two major public projects: a new Bunnell City Hall and Police Department complex and a connector road between State Road 100 and Highway U.S. 1. The 17,800-square-foot complex combines Bunnell’s administrative offices, police department headquarters and an assembly hall into one space, a Bunnell press release said. The facility addresses Bunnell’s need for expanded operational capacity and modernized infrastructure.

“This new complex is more than a building — it’s a meaningful step forward for our city,” Mayor Catherine D. Robinson said. “We’re grateful to The Collage Companies for their care and commitment throughout this process. To-

gether, we’ve created a space that truly serves our community and reflects Bunnell’s values and future.”

The new complex is located at 2400 Commerce Parkway, which is the new road that directly connects to U.S. 1 on the south end of Bunnell.

Commerce Parkway, the new 1.7-mile roadway that officially opened on Aug. 29, will make it easier for emergency services to reach areas on the southwest side of the county. It is the culmination of 20 years of work by Flagler County and Bunnell.

Commerce Parkway has two, undivided 11-foot lanes with 8-foot roadside shoulders, five feet of which are paved, a previous Flagler County press release on the project said. It has a 5-foot sidewalk along the eastern side.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

How could woman pose as nurse?

Dear Editor:

As a registered nurse, I had to read the article about the woman posing as a nurse at least six or seven times to try to make sense of it.

From what I could tell, this woman was being hired as an advanced nurse tech but then told the interviewer that she had done all the schooling to be a registered nurse and that she just needed to pass the test.

During this same hiring process to be an advanced nurse tech, she then announced (perhaps a couple days later?) that she had “passed” the registered nurse’s test and presented her license which had the wrong last name on it.

She told the interviewer that she had just gotten married, thus the wrong last name on her license.

The interviewer asked her to bring in her marriage license to prove her last name had changed to the one on the license. Shockingly, she never brought her marriage license in to validate the last name on her registered nurse’s license but was hired and began working as a registered nurse on July 3, 2023, using a license that was not hers.

She worked for one and a half years, according to my calculations, as a registered nurse at Advent Health Hospital in Palm Coast having no education or license to be a registered nurse. According to her criminal investigation, in looking over just one six-month period from June 2024 through January 2025, she provided care to 4,486 patients.

This is scary stuff.

DARLA WIDNALL Ormond Beach

Half-cent sales tax is fairest way to fund Flagler beaches

Dear Editor:

I have been deeply concerned about the proposed MSBU (Municipal Service Benefit Unit for Flagler County’s beach management), which I have called a “Misguided Scheme to Burden Us” — because it unfairly suggested that only residents east of the Intracoastal should shoulder the costs of Reach III beach restoration, even though 85.5% of that shoreline is controlled by private gated communities.

That approach is discriminatory and inequitable, and I strongly opposed it. However, after speaking at length with several county officials, I have pivoted my focus and come to embrace the broader picture. The MSBU idea is still absurd and unfair. But I was reminded me of two key realities regarding our tax base and the benefits we all enjoy in Flagler County.

First, homeowners in Hammock Dunes, Ocean Hammock, Sea Colony, and Hammock Beach already pay some of the highest ad valorem taxes in the county, based on million-dollar property values. They are already contributing substantially to our countywide tax base.

Second, and even more importantly, healthy beaches benefit everyone in Flagler County. They protect property values countywide, draw tourism that funds essential county service, and sustain the quality of life we all enjoy.

Here’s an excellent point to consider: Every resident knows what they pay in property taxes because they write the check once a year. But hardly anyone can tell you how much sales tax they pay annually — because we

don’t track it. A small, half-cent countywide sales tax spread across residents, tourists and businesses is not only fair, it is less painful and more effective. Combine that with tourist development taxes, and we have a simple, sustainable formula for maintaining our beaches without burdening any single neighborhood or group of residents.

The truth is this: Our beaches are the lifeblood of Flagler County. Residents west of the Intracoastal, east on the barrier island and visitors alike all use and enjoy them. If we allow our beaches to deteriorate, we not only hurt oceanfront property owners — we hurt everyone, because declining beaches mean declining tourism, declining property values and higher taxes for all of us.

The simplest, fairest, and most sustainable approach is to enact a countywide half-cent sales tax, dedicate a portion of the tourism tax, and commit those funds transparently to beach management. That way, every resident and every visitor contributes, and we keep Flagler County’s beaches and shoreline healthy, secure, and beautiful for all to enjoy now and for future generations.

DR. MICHAEL RUEL Flagler County

SEND YOUR LETTERS What’s your opinion about the beach management plan? What else is on your mind? Send letters to brent@ observerlocalnews.com. Include first and last name, as well as city of residence. Editor may alter the letter for clarity and/or length.

Bunnell and Flagler County officials celebrate the grand opening of Commerce Parkway

The new Bunnell City Hall and police department complex opened on Aug. 27. Photo courtesy of Flagler County

MY VIEW KRISTA GOODRICH, DISTRICT 2 SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER

Let’s praise the real progress of Volusia County Schools

When disruption replaces dialogue, and politics outweigh the pursuit of student success, our children lose.

In recent weeks, several principals, teachers, business owners, and community leaders have asked me to share my perspective as a School Board member about what is really happening in Volusia County Schools. They, like me, are concerned about a negative narrative being spread by some individuals, and they want our community to hear another side.

One parent summed it up well in a note to me:

“Our school leaders are working tirelessly for the well-being and academic success of our students. They deserve support, not suspicion. As a lifelong resident, an alumna, and a proud parent to a current VCS student,

I urge my fellow parents to pay attention to this behavior. I believe our community deserves better.”

These words reflect what I hear again and again. Volusia County Schools is not perfect — no district is — but we are making real progress and earning recognition for it. We don’t have to be combative to achieve results.

Asking questions, seeking new solutions, and challenging the status quo are healthy. But it’s also important to acknowledge success.

Under Superintendent Dr. Carmen Balgobin’s leadership, who has been recognized nationally as one of only five finalists for National Superintendent of the Year, we’ve made tremendous strides. For decades, Volusia struggled with a revolving door of superintendents, leading to instability and declining performance. With Dr. Balgobin — asked to return by the previous board — we are finally on steady ground. Our exceptional teaching staff, strong parental support and focused district leadership has increased our student proficiency and overall school grades have risen. For the first time in 16 years, Volusia County

Schools earned an A-rating, with many schools reaching their highest performance in history and not a single school receiving a D or F. When you see a teacher, make sure to congratulate them as these achievements can be directly attributed to their greatness.

Our results are based on state standards, not locally manipulated data and the numbers tell the story: Eighth grade math proficiency rose from 40% in 2024 to 56% in 2025, geometry proficiency jumped from 47% to 62%, and both ELA and math scores increased significantly across multiple grades. Volusia is now leading among its Central Florida peers.

Some have raised concerns about “transparency.” It’s an easy word to use when trying to sow distrust, but here are the facts: Volusia County Schools publishes its budget, holds public workshops, and consistently passes state audits. Questions about NDAs have been used as a scare tactic, but in reality, NDAs are common when protecting sensitive information such as retirement contributions or insurance records. No teacher was ever asked to sign one, and nothing prevents the public from

accessing records as required by law.

Headline-driven accusations may stir fear, but they don’t serve families. Some critics openly admit they don’t understand the school board budget yet insist something sinister is happening. A lack of personal understanding does not make the district dishonest. If there are questions, the solution is to ask, learn, and engage — not to spread misinformation.

Here are the hard facts:

„ Student achievement is climbing across all grade levels.

„ Fiscal responsibility is strong, with clean audits and clear reporting.

„ Career and technical education programs are expanding, preparing students for workforce success.

„ Advanced academic opportunities are growing, giving more students a chance to excel.

„ Community partnerships are stronger than ever, connecting schools and families. Families across Volusia County can be proud of this progress, even as we continue to aim higher.

What I would like to see is the business side of the house held more account-

Volusia County Schools is not perfect — no district is — but we are making real progress and earning recognition for it. We don’t have to be combative to achieve results.

able-where can we find ways to be more conscience with taxpayer dollars? How can we become more efficient and where can we improve operations without sacrificing academics? Perhaps a business report card to show where we are strong and where we need improvement would be beneficial. We are a budget of over $1 billion dollars; we must be accountable for our efficiency.

Any constituent who wants to understand how our schools are performing, how our budget is managed, or what programs are available is welcome to reach out to me directly. My door is always open. What our children need most right now is unity, not division. Those who want to see our schools thrive should carefully consider the motives of people who choose negativity over collaboration. When disruption replaces dialogue and politics outweigh the pursuit of student success, our children lose.

Parents, taxpayers, and community members deserve accurate information — not sensational headlines, political spin, or false rumors.

Volusia County Schools belong to all of us. Let’s continue to support our students, celebrate progress, and ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.

Moving all of Flagler Forward — a new chapter for FESPA

We believe that when we support those who support our children, everyone wins.

In every thriving school district, there’s a group of unsung heroes working tirelessly behind the scenes — driving our students safely to school, preparing hot meals, keeping campuses clean and

secure, supporting teachers in classrooms, answering phones, managing school operations, repairing buses and so much more. These are the support professionals of Flagler Schools, and they are the heartbeat of our community.

They are paraprofessionals, clerical staff, food service workers, custodians, security personnel, aides, mechanics and bus drivers. And they are proudly represented by the Flagler Educational Support Professionals Association (FESPA).

As Flagler Schools moves “Flagler Forward,” it’s essential that everyone moves forward together. No one should be left behind — especially not the people who keep our

We’re

schools running every single day with care, skill and dedication.

We’ll be the first to admit: FESPA hasn’t always had the loudest voice. But that changes now.

With new leadership and a renewed sense of purpose, we’re turning the page. We’re focused on rebuilding trust, strengthening unity and raising the visibility of our members. We’re not here to chase headlines — we’re here to build relationships, advocate for fairness and serve our schools with pride.

We are living our values by strengthening our communications to members, providing more consistent updates on the issues that matter to them and where we stand on

critical local work. We are pushing for more than just negotiated raises and steps — we need annual cost-ofliving adjustments (COLA) built in so that employees don’t fall behind year after year. And we are committed to making sure that promises from administration — whether on training, staffing, or pay — translate into real results for our members.

Membership in FESPA isn’t just about job protection. It’s about opportunity. Through our partnerships with the Florida Education Association (FEA) and NEA Member Benefits, our members have access to valuable tools like student loan forgiveness help, career development, legal support and member-

only discounts that help stretch every dollar. These are real resources for real people — people who give their all to Flagler’s students. We believe that when we support those who support our children, everyone wins. Because school success isn’t just about test scores or curriculum — it’s about community. To truly move Flagler Forward, we must do it together — with dignity, accountability and equity for every employee.

FESPA is ready. We’re listening. And we’re all in — for our members, our district and our community.

Lisa Torres is the new president of the Flagler Educational Professional Support Association union.

accurate and compelling journalism. We build the local economy by helping businesses strategically connect with our print and online readers.

Publisher Brian McMillan, brian@observerlocalnews.com

Managing Editor Jarleene Almenas, jarleene@observerlocalnews.com

Associate Editor Brent Woronoff, brent@observerlocalnews.com

Staff Writer Sierra Williams, sierra@observerlocalnews.com

Operation and Design Manager Hailey McMillan, hailey@observerlocalnews.com

Marketing Consultants April Koehler, april@observerlocalnews.com; Travis Hurlbut, travis@observerlocalnews.com

Office Coordinator Kay Raymond, Kay@observerlocalnews.com

SUBSCRIBE For driveway delivery, visit www.observerlocalnews.com/ subscribe. TO ADVERTISE Call the office at 386-447-9723, or reach out to a marketing consultant above. Locally Owned / Publishers of the Palm Coast

Ca

We offer a full range of services: Cremation Traditional funeral services Keepsakes Assistance for those needing to return home to their final resting place Care & guidance every step of the way are affordable At Lotus Funeral Services, we understand that saying goodbye to a loved one is deeply personal. Our compassionate team is here to support you with care, respect and guidance every step of the journey.

The following headlines and lightly edited comments were posted on the Observer’s Facebook pages.

Flagler Habitat for Humanity celebrates Elizabeth Monroe’s new home Sharon Holloway I love this organization for so many reasons. This is beautiful to see. God bless you and your family!

Ormond Beach mayor: No discussion on eliminating youth sports Amber Bobak Having nice things does cost money. Do we want no [tax] increase? What type of community do we want to be? My answer as a resident, my house is divided. I don’t think the tax increase will hurt us too much, and as a mother, I think community centers are important and I don’t mind contributing. My husband and children however, don’t feel like our family should be responsible for up-keeping facilities we don’t use regularly. There’s gotta be a compromise somewhere, and I really wish the residence would start having discussions with open minds trying to find solutions, instead of just arguing against each other and demanding the other one listen to their side.

YOUR NEIGHBORS

The perfect fit

Spruce Creek sophomore starts

Volusia county-wide dress drive

JARLEENE ALMENAS

EDITOR

MANAGING

Spruce Creek High School

sophomore Jaycee Alley was shopping for her homecoming dress with her stepmother a couple weeks ago when she found “the perfect one.”

They spent the rest of the day picking out shoes and accessories for the dance, celebrating a successful shopping spree with a dinner at Olive Garden. That’s where Jaycee mentioned that she thought it was sad that other girls may not get the same experience.

“I feel like no girl should have to miss out on that,” Jaycee said.

About 18 hours later, The Dress Loop’s first dress drive was born. To be held at Mainland High School from 12-3 p.m.on Sunday, Sept. 7, the dress drive is a Volusia County-wide style swap where local high schoolers are invited to find their perfect homecoming dress — at no cost to them. The dress drive has been made possible thanks to about 15 sponsorships by local businesses and dress donations from the community.

Jaycee and her stepmom, Caley Alley, have raised over $2,000 so far and collected over 200 dresses, the major-

ity of which are either new with tags, or are in like-new condition. Donations are still sought for short, cocktail style dresses. Attendees — who must have a current school ID to enter — can also “shop” for accessories and shoes.

Caley said she wasn’t surprised that Jaycee thought of helping other girls for homecoming.

“Jaycee’s always had a really big heart and she’s already a natural born leader,”

Caley said. “Her having that thought comes natural for her and she’s always in her community wondering how we can give back. ... She’s always aware — she’s got an old soul in that sense.”

Caley, a wedding planner, said Jaycee has been helping her with events since she was 9 years old. In addition to being on the cross country and track team at Spruce Creek, Jaycee is also part of the finance academy and volunteers with the Salty Church children’s ministry in New Smyrna Beach. Recently, she also volunteered with the Oceans of Hope Foundation, a program that makes surfing accessible to people with physical disabilities.

Jaycee also started a nonprofit with her dad called the JC & Me Foundation to find ways to give back to the community — beyond dresses. The name is inspired by the initials of her dad and stepmom, which pronounced together sound like her first name, as well as her connection with

“It’s cool to see how many people wanted to help out ... You get caught up in the world where everybody’s like, ‘It’s hard to see the good,’ but now it’s easy to see the good in a situation like this.”

JAYCEE ALLEY, event organizer

YOUR TOWN

Daytona Beach German Shepherd Rescue to host fundraiser

Local nonprofit Daytona Beach German Shepherd Rescue will be hosting a fundraiser at The Casements in Ormond Beach on Saturday, Sept. 13. Held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. the “Dogs Days of Summer” fundraiser at 25 Riverside Drive will feature dog-friendly vendors, a “puppy play yard” with agility courses and splash pools, photo sessions and training demos from Superior K9 academy.

“We are doing what we hope is going to be the first of

an annual end of summer fun event for people to come out and bring their dogs,” volunteer Adrienne Bishop said. Tickets for the fundraiser cost $30 for one dog, and $50 for two dogs. Human admission is free.

Daytona Beach German Shepherd Rescue was founded in 2013 with the mis-

WANT TO HELP?

Dress donations will be accepted through Friday, Sept. 5. Drop off locations are:

„ LaBosco’s Jewelry Castle, 4360 S. Ridgewood Ave., Port Orange

„ Salty Church Ormond Beach, 221 Vining Court, Ormond Beach

„ Reilly Auto Repair, 850 Ridgewood Ave., Holly Hill

„ Mane Beauty Lounge, 2010 S. Ridgewood Ave., South Daytona

„ R&M Custom Cakes, 394 N. Causeway, New Smyrna Beach

„ Pinch-a-Penny, 3755 S Nova Road, Port Orange; and 214 N. Dixie Freeway, New Smyrna Beach

Dresses can also be donated by Thursday, Sept. 4, to Volusia County high schools.

her faith.

“What drives me a lot is definitely my relationship with Christ,” Jaycee said. Seeing the dress drive come together so quickly has been neat to show Jaycee how a small thought can bring people together, Caley said.

The morning after their homecoming shopping spree, Caley started calling schools and asking them if they were interested in taking part in the dress drive. Within two minutes of being on the phone with Mainland’s Activities Director Jill Rogers, Caley had a host for the event.

“She was like, ‘We’ll host it,’” Caley said. “Her excitement just matched our own.”

After Caley and Jaycee posted the dress drive idea on social media, local business owners took notice. Mane Beauty Lounge in South Daytona is donating up to five free hair and makeup sessions per

sion to find homes and rescue German shepherds. They are a foster home-based rescue, operating out of the Daytona Beach and Jacksonville areas.

Bishop has been fostering for Daytona Beach German Shepherd Rescue since 2018.

The fundraiser, she said, was a result of the rescue trying to come up with ways to provide something fun for the community while raising necessary funds, as their dogs are spending more time in foster homes than before as adoptions have slowed. Currently, the rescue has 13 dogs in foster homes.

“I think the biggest challenge right now is that there are more people surrendering dogs than there are people looking to add dogs to their family,” Bishop said. To purchase tickets or learn more about the fundraiser, visit https://dbgsr.better-

school, with winners to be selected at a drawing during the event. Texas Roadhouse and Outback Steakhouse are sponsoring free dinners for homecoming night, and iRock Your Party will host a live DJ and a photo booth station at the dress drive.

“Definitely JC’s vision and then the community effort kind of put the bow on it, so it’s been really cool,” Caley said.

It’s crazy how fast the event came together, Jaycee said.

“It’s cool to see how many

world.org/events/DBGSRDogDaysOfSummer.

Ormond-by-theSea Lions Club hosts first District Advisory meeting

The Ormond-by-the-Sea Lions Club hosted the first District Advisory Meeting on Aug.16 at the St. Brendan’s Church Media Center. Over 75 Lions from across the state attended, according to a press release.

The guest speaker during the meeting was Beth Robertson, of Cookies for Kids’ Cancer. District Governor Maggiy Williams also held a Lions cookie contest at the meeting.

Additionally, OBTS Lions Club President Aleta Dick was presented with a Grand Lion Life Membership from Lions

people wanted to help out,” she said. “... You get caught up in the world where everybody’s like, ‘It’s hard to see the good,’ but now it’s easy to see the good in a situation like this.”

The monetary donations for the drive have also helped Caley and Jaycee purchase new dresses to ensure they have inventory in different colors, styles and sizes.

Schools have accepted dress donations in the past, Caley said, but it lacks the shopping experience. Students typical-

ly just go to the office to pick one up. “We want to give them, not just the dress, but we want to give them the experience,” Caley said. The dress drive is for everybody, Jaycee said. Plus, it’s earth-friendly. And while finding your perfect homecoming dress is fun, Jayce added, it’s also a relief. “Once I found one that fit me nice and I liked he color, I just felt confident,” she said. “I want girls to feel that same bit of confidence.”

Saving Sight for her help with those needing glasses and/ or surgeries. International President Fabricio Oliveira Appreciation Certificates were presented to Lions Mary Yochum, of the Ormond-bythe-Sea Lions, Nina Guiglotto, Amy Dumas and Abby Baker, from the Palm Coast Lions Club for their assistance at International Convention. Then, on Aug. 23, Dick and Lion members Jean Cerullo, Bobbie Cheh, Marcia Pizzimenti, Melinda Uebel and Mary Yochum of the OBTS Club were re-certified as blood sugar screeners for another year.

Jaycee Alley holds up dresses for The Dress Loop’s dress drive. Photos by Jarleene Almenas

Beyah is available for adoption.

Lions are re-certified for diabetes screenings. Courtesy photos

CORPORATE OFFICE - 386-677-SOLD (7653)

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

BEACHSIDE OFFICE - 386-441-SOLD (7653) 2110 Ocean Shore Blvd., Ste. B, Ormond Beach, FL 32176

PORT ORANGE OFFICE - 386-767-SOLD (7653)

840 Dunlawton Ave., Ste. D, Port Orange, FL 32127

COMMERCIAL OFFICE - 386-253-8565

140 S. Atlantic Ave., Suite 202, Ormond Beach, FL 32176

DAYTONA BEACH SHORES OFFICE - 386-766-SOLD (7653) 3118 S. Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach Shores, FL 32118

Centrally located in Port Orange, this 2BR/2BA home is on quiet street near shopping, schools & parks. Features glass-enclosed rear porch, oversized 2-car garage with workbenches. Big ticket items in great shape, just needs your updates. Perfect for downsizing or first-time buyers! #1217167 $249,000. Matt Renshaw 386-566-1233.

Welcome to this 2BR/2.5BA townhome in the heart of Ormond Beach. Near shopping, dining, medical & I-95, just minutes to beaches. Features functional layout, spacious bedrooms, natural light & private back deck. Low-maintenance living in a prime location, ready for its next owner! #1217161 $190,000. Tonia Klokow 386-679-4685.

LOCAL EVENTS

FRIDAY, SEPT. 5

VFW AUXILIARY 8696

TACO BAR

When: 5-7 p.m.

Where: VFW Post 8696, 47 Old Kings Road N., Palm Coast

Details: Join in for a $10 taco bar. All proceeds will benefit local veterans and their families.

FREE FAMILY ART NIGHT

When: 5:30-7 p.m.

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

Details: Work with your family to make paper lizard sculptures. All art supplies provided. No art experience needed. All ages welcome.

MOVIES ON THE HALIFAX

When: 8 p.m.

Where: Rockefeller Gardens, 26 Riverside Drive, Ormond

Beach

Details: Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a showing of “Princess Diaries,” rated PG. Movies are weather-sensitive. Call 386-676-3216 for rainout information.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 6

ORMOND BEACH CIVIL AIR

PATROL OPEN HOUSE

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

Where: Ormond Beach Composite Squadron, 760 Airport Road, Ormond Beach

Details: See Civil Air Patrol’s new facility and airplane, and learn about CAP. There will be a ribbon-cutting at noon. For more information, contact Nicole Sharbono at Nicole. Sharbono@flwgcap.us.

THE FLAGLER PLAYHOUSE GRAND REOPENING

When: 11:30 a.m.

Where: 301 E. Moody Blvd., Bunnell

Details: Celebrate the reopening of the Flagler Playhouse, with its new 50-seat theater and event space.

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.

FROM GRIEF TO GRACE: A MOTHER’S MISSION TO END VIOLENCE

When: 11 a.m. to noon

Where: St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 5400 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast

Details: St. Thomas Episcopal Church is hosting Carmen Gray, mother of Curtis Gray, a local star athlete who died in 2019, just six weeks before his high school graduation. Gray is the founder of Long Live Curtis, Rise Above Violence Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to violence prevention. Free event. Open to the public.

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 art events.

CASINO NIGHT

When: 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Where: St. Brendan the Navigator Catholic Church social hall, 1000 Ocean Shore Blvd., Ormond Beach

Details: Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Council 13018. The OneBlood Big Red Bus will be onsite to accept blood donations, and all donors will receive a free pass to the breakfast to enjoy scrambled eggs, sausage, and all the pancakes you can eat, along with coffee and orange juice. OneBlood will also offer a free gift and a $20 eGift card in addition to a complimentary wellness checkup. Breakfast for non-donors costs $6; kids under 12 eat free.

‘EL TERCER ESPACIO — THE THIRD SPACE’ SOLO EXHIBIT OPENING RECEPTION

When: 1-4 p.m.

Where: Art League of Daytona Beach, 433 S. Palmetto Ave., Daytona Beach

Details: Celebrate the opening of this exhibit featuring the photography of Lisette Otero-Lewis, with guest artists Edmundo Lopez and Grace Senior Morandi.

MONDAY, SEPT. 8

PALM COAST FOUR CORNERS BUS TOUR

When: 9:30 a.m. to noon

Where: Intersection of City Place and Lake Avenue, Palm Coast

Details: The City of Palm Coast and the Flagler County Cultural Council are sponsoring this free bus tour. Registration required. Visit https:// www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/palm-coast-four-cornersbus-tour.

TUESDAY, SEPT. 9

FLORIDA 101

When: 9 a.m. to noon

Where: UF/IFAS Extension Flagler County, 150 Sawgrass Road, Bunnell

Details: Florida 101 is an introduction to Florida designed for both new and seasoned residents of Flagler County who are interested in learning about the ecology of Florida, how to best take advantage of our unique climate, flora, and fauna, and how to protect it. This is a four week course, with other sessions being held on Sept. 16, 23 and 30. Course costs $45 per person. Register at tinyurl.com/ Florida101-2025.

FILM SCREENING:

“FINDING NEMO”

When: 6-8 p.m.

Where: Madorsky Theater at the Daytona State College campus, Hosseini Center, 1200 W International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach

Details: See “Finding Nemo,” cartoon film about an overprotective clownfish desperate to find his missing son. Free and open to the public.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT 10

AARP MEETING

When: 10 a.m. to noon

Where: Ormond Beach

Unitarian Universalist Church, 56 N. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach

Details: This month’s guest speaker is Lori Tolland, Ormond Beach Zone 1 city commissioner and deputy mayor. The public is invited. An optional $5 light lunch will follow. For more information, call Jeff Boyle at 386 3419013.

CITIZENS FOR ORMOND BEACH

When: 5:30 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach Regional Library auditorium, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach

Details: Join Citizens for Ormond Beach as they host guest speaker Ormond Beach

LITTLE ARTISTS

WORKSHOP

When: 10:30 a.m. to noon

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

Details: Young artists ages 3-5 will explore an art element with activities designed to develop fine motor skills and encourage imagination. The program ends with immersive storytelling. Offered in partnership with the Early Learning Coalition of Flagler and Volusia. Free program. Registration required. Visit ormondartmuseum.org.

‘WEAVING A TAPESTRY’: GENEALOGY AND FAMILY HISTORY

When: 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach Regional Library auditorium

Details: The Halifax Genealogy Society member Linda Vivian will speak on the distinction between genealogy and family history and how to get started,

ART OF HEALING

WORKSHOP

When: 2-3:30 p.m.

Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens

Details: Focus on self-expression, growth and relaxation during this workshop, which has a meditative component and is appropriate for all artistic skill levels. No experience necessary. All supplies are provided. Free admission. Registration required. Visit ormondartmuseum.org/ classes-programs.

SEPT. 11 CANDLELIGHT

MEMORIAL SERVICE

When: 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: Heroes Memorial Park, 2860 Palm Coat Parkway NW, Palm Coast

Details: Palm Coast Fire Department’s annual 9/11 Candlelight Vigil. Candles will be provided. The public is encouraged to attend.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 12

VETERANS

LUNCH AND LEARN

When: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

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

Details: Attendees will enjoy a special presentation and activity led by an instructor, followed by a complimentary Publix sub or salad lunch. All supplies provided. No previous art experience necessary. Open to veterans and current service members only. Free admission. Registration required. Visit ormondartmuseum.org/ classes-programs.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 13

DAYTONA CAT SHOW AND ADOPTION EVENT

When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: Ocean Center, 101 N. Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach

Details: The Cat Fanciers’ Association’s annual cat show will host over 100 cats competing for “Best Cat in Show,” a cat costume contest, feline agility and adoptable cats. Tickets cost $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and seniors and $45 for a family of four. Children 4 and under are free. Parking costs $15 a day. Visit daytonacatweek.com.

HOW-TO FESTIVAL

When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach Regional Library

Details: Attend this festival at the library and attend free sessions about designing buttons, family crafting, discovering microscopes, gardening with native plants, birding, genealogy and more. For more information, visit https://volusialibrary.libcal.com.

Where: Italian American Club, 45 Old Kings Road N., Palm Coast

offers Jack&-Jill + 3rd bath. Prime Ormond Beach location near parks, shops & beach! #1209936 $485,000. Julia Laoun 386-301-0983.

Updated 4BR/2.5BA pool home near Daytona State & Embry-Riddle! Features bright open layout, updated kitchen/baths, brick fireplace, dining & living rooms, indoor laundry, covered patio & resurfaced pool w/jacuzzi. Roof 2020, HVAC 2022, windows & water heater updated. Great family home or student rental! #1213509 $385,000. Tracy Carter 321-303-0323.

Details: The Flagler Woman’s Club invites the community to attend its third annual Casino Night. Admission costs $85 and includes appetizers, raffle tickets and $5,000 in chips for casino games. There will be live music by Frank Braccia.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 7

PANCAKE BREAKFAST

When: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Mayor Jason Leslie. The public is invited to ask questions concerning issues involving Ormond Beach and on-going actions to improve the city. For more information, email billdenny105@gmail.com.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 11

FIFTH ANNUAL 9/11

MEMORIAL TRIBUTE CLIMB

When: 8:15 a.m.

Where: Hammock Beach

Golf Resort & Spa, 200 Ocean Crest Drive, Palm Coast

Details: See Page 8A.

CARDBOARD REGATTA

When: 12-3 p.m.

Where: Moody’s Boat Ramp, 825 Moody Lane, Flagler Beach

Details: Get ready to race or sink at the Flagler Beach Centennial Cardboard Regatta. Build your vessel from cardboard, duct tape and latex paint. There will be awards for fastest boat, best design, and the most dramatic sinking. Register at City Hall or online at cityofflaglerbeach.com.

YOUR SCHOOLS

Flagler Ed Foundation secures $136,000 in grants

Flagler County Education Foundation Executive Director Teresa Rizzo announced four community grants totaling $136,000 secured by the foundation for Flagler Schools initiatives.

“We’ve had a busy and successful grant season. These grants reflect not only strong partnerships but also full confidence this community has in the work that is happening here in our classrooms,” Rizzo said in the Ed Foundation’s Spotlight at the Aug. 26 Flagler County School Board meeting.

The largest grant totaled $76,000 for teachers’ needs across the county. The sum included $38,000 from the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations, which was matched by Beaver Toyota. The awards will include academic and behavior grants with presentations beginning on Sept. 15, Rizzo said.

Florida Power & Light donated $7,000 for science teacher professional development with

the district’s teachers spending a Saturday sharing their most successful Florida-standardsaligned lessons with each other. Each teacher receives a tote filled with science equipment to take back to their classrooms. United Way donated $42,000 to fund the countywide Career Fair on Nov. 14 and the two middle school career fairs in January. Geico presented the Ed Foundation with a check for $11,000 for the STUFF Bus program. In the past, the program has provided students with everything from size 16 shoes to adaptive PE equipment and headphones for classrooms, Rizzo said.

Volusia County Schools offers online driver education course

Volusia County Schools offers an online driver education class that satisfies a new state law requiring the completion of such a course to obtain a learner’s permit. The course, offered by VFlex through VCS’s Volusia Virtual Solutions, is available to all

students who are at least 14 ½ years old. The course is completely online, offering flexibility in when and where students can complete it. The course is also completely free to students and families, has open and rolling enrollment, and can be requested at any time.

The VFlex class includes four hours of education on drugs and alcohol, followed by the traffic law and substance abuse exam. Students will also have a chance to take the Class E Knowledge exam online for free. The new law, which took effect July 1, requires teens aged 15-17 to complete a driver education course before they can secure a learner’s permit. This replaces the previous re-

FOCUS ON FAITH

Epic Church’s food drive collects 4,600 pounds of food

Epic Church of Palm Coast is holding a food drive.

The church has been holding this food drive for over a decade in the months of February and August. The food is given to Grace Community Food Pantry, specifically for their backpack program. This

program helps children in our local schools be able to eat over the weekend, when the schools are not able to provide meals for them.

The director of the food drive, Ricky Coyne, shed some light onto why Epic Church does this. “We are called to love and serve everybody,” he said. Coyne said he feels that a lot of people feel estranged from the faith-based commu-

nity for various reasons, but if they could see the services provided by the local churches, then maybe that perception can be changed.

As of Aug. 25, the church has surpassed its goal of 4,600 pounds of food. Want to help? Non-perishable food items may be donated at the Epic Church office at 160 Cypress Pointe Parkway, Suite C107 from Monday to Thursday, or on

Sundays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Buddy Taylor Middle School, located at 4500 Belle Terre Parkway.

Grace Community of Ormond strives to bring churches together

quirement of only completing a traffic law and substance abuse course.

“VCS is proud to be able to offer a driver education course that satisfies the new state law and is readily available to students,” Superintendent Dr. Carmen Balgobin said. “This is just one of the many ways our Volusia Virtual Solutions offer-

Pastor Seth Tweeddale from Grace Community Church in Ormond Beach believes that “pastors have influence in the lives of their people.”

Stephenson, Wilcox and Associates

— ELIZABETH MOORE

What is your church or synagogue up to? Send story ideas to jarleene@observerlocalnews.com.

This belief has encouraged him to hold a Pastor Summit on Sept. 11, in which he hopes pastors from all sects will come together to learn how to be involved in showing the love of Christ and improve the community. Tweeddale would also like to “develop relationships with government…to have a pipeline in place” in order to support and pray for those in authority.

WHERE COTTON GROWS, SHADOWS

The Sound of the Whippoorwill is a moving memoir set in the postWWII deep south. It narrates the struggles of a fourth-generation white family on a cotton farm, wrestling with hard labor, mental illness, and child abuse. The narrative also explores the complex racial dynamics between the

Flagler Schools administrators hold up grant checks secured by the Flagler County Education Foundation at the Aug. 26 School Board meeting. Flagler Schools photo

Brought to you by:

RECOMMENDED BY 10/10 DOCTORS OF AUDIOLOGY

5-Star Rated by our patients!

HEARING EXAM receive a copy for your medical records

3-YEAR GUARANTEE an extended warranty covering loss & damage

45-DAY TRIAL try out new devices for no cost and no obligation

A high-speed charging option, a drying function via inductive charging, and intuitive left and right LEDs for status information

An AI chip that expands the listening range from all directions, delivering unparalleled speech clarity by separating speech from noise

Connect your hearing aids to televisions and smartphones for easy, carefree streaming phone calls and TV directly to your ears

Directly control your hearing aid with a smartphone app, allowing discreet adjustments to volume and other hearing programs

BUSINESS

Beachside Angie’s to become latest addition to Fountain Square Village

Owner and chef Angie Lutts aims to celebrate her deli’s grand opening on Sept. 20.

JARLEENE ALMENAS

MANAGING EDITOR

A gourmet deli is opening soon in Ormond’s beachside.

Located inside Fountain Square Village at 142 E. Granada Blvd., Suite 203, Beachside

Angie’s will first offer fresh pastries, homemade pies and desserts. Once owner and chef Angie Lutts completes interior renovations, the deli will expand its offerings to sandwiches, soups and salads. Opening her own business has been a whirlwind for Lutts. She signed the lease for the second-floor space at

Fountain Square on Aug. 11, shortly after taking part in the plaza’s new Sunday farmer’s market, having heard that there were spaces available to lease.

“I don’t ever make fast decisions but my heart felt right — everything felt right,” Lutts said. “The space was beautiful. The sun was setting and I could see Beachside Angie’s here.”

She is aiming to celebrate the grand opening of her deli on Sept. 20.

Beachside Angie’s was first founded in 2021 as a pop-up.

This summer was a hard one for the business, Lutts said, and after she lost her tent during an event, she looked at her husband and close friends and decided it was time to go brick and mortar.

Lutts is a member of Biz

Bestie, a local women’s busi-

ness group, which led to her joining the weekly farmer’s market at Fountain Square.

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Lutts is a fourth generation chef. Growing up, her family owned a general store in the city as well as a deli. Lutts knew she had a passion — and talent — for the culinary arts by the time she was about 14. She’s been actively pursuing it ever since.

Part of what fuels her passion for cooking is being able to blend cuisines and flavors together. Lutts is a melting pot herself, having Puerto Rican, Ukrainian and Romanian heritage in her family.

“Just like a painter knows how to blend colors, she’s a chef that knows how to blend flavors,” said her husband, Dan Lutts. “All of her food is very savory and has a lot of depth, and it’s not just

separate ingredients, but they all marry together. She’s a creative mind and her food

reflects that creativity.”

Beachside Angie’s menu will be seasonal, but everything

will be made from scratch, Angie Lutts said. The deli will also be available for private reservation in the evenings, where customers will receive a personalized fixed menu.

Her motto for her business?

“Wow, that’s good.”

“The slogan is ‘Beachside Angie’s, now that’s the place,’” Dan Lutts said. “Because we want to become a place where you can sit and have a conversation with your friend, and eat some of the best food your palate’s ever tasted.”

“And not have to go to Paris or France,” Angie added. “You can just travel to your local area and international will be transported to you.”

Beachside Angie’s will be open 9 a.m to 2 p.m. daily.

Email business story ideas to jarleene@observerlocalnews. com.

AdventHealth Daytona Beach names new chief medical officer

AdventHealth Daytona Beach has named a new chief medical officer.

Dr. Carolyn Harraway-Smith stepped into the role on Aug. 25, bringing over 20 years of experience as a practicing physician and health care executive, according to a press release.

Board-certified in both obstetrics/gynecology and family medicine, Harraway-

been a practicing physician for many years, and she’s also led systemwide quality initiatives,” said Dr. David Sinclair, president and CEO of AdventHealth Daytona Beach. “She understands that better care isn’t just about protocols or equipment — it’s about people. And she knows how to bring teams together to make meaningful change.”

Smith most recently served as the system chief quality officer for Cone Health in North Carolina. She’s also held roles as a department chair, fellowship director, and hospital chief medical officer.

“Dr. Harraway-Smith has

Harraway-Smith joins the hospital as construction crews continue to work on a $220 million expansion that will add 104 new inpatient beds, four surgical suites, and more than 240,000 square feet of space, the press release states.

“I was drawn to AdventHealth because of its whole-person care philosophy. It’s how people show up here, every day,” Dr.

Harraway-Smith said. “I’m looking forward to being part of a team that’s serious about safety, equity, and helping patients feel not only better, but truly cared for.”

First Watch opens in Ormond Beach

First Watch’s new location in Ormond Beach opened on Monday, Sept. 1.

The Florida-based breakfast chain announced the opening of its new 4,800-square-foot restaurant, located at Granada Plaza at 185 E. Granada Blvd., on Friday, Aug. 29. The restaurant will seat over 160 people and features a patio and interior bar, according to a press release.

On the menu are dishes such as avocado toast, farmhouse hash, lemon ricotta pancakes, sandwiches, salads and fresh juices. The restaurant offers a revolving seasonal menu five times a year; Ormond Beach’s first seasonal menu will launch in winter.

“First Watch is widely beloved for its modern take on breakfast and brunch,” the press release

The stress of starting school can trigger embarrassing and painful flares of eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, acne breakouts or other skin conditions. Now is the perfect time for our dermatology experts to create a personalized action plan to address your child’s or teen’s ongoing skin conditions, or identify and treat new concerns.

Fall in love with your own skin again

With the kids back in school, you’ve got more time to pamper yourself. We offer some of the most popular cosmetic treatments including BOTOX® Cosmetic, dermal fillers, lasers and energy treatments for pigmentation issues, Xtrac® for vitiligo and psoriasis, and Platelet-Rich Plasma treatments for facial rejuvenation and hair loss.

725 W Granada Blvd, Ste 44 Ormond Beach, FL 32174

L-R Hannah Leonard, PA-C, Dr. Billy Bethea, Beth McDonough, PA-C

A First Watch brunch spread with juice.

Dr. Carolyn Harraway-Smith. Courtesy photos

Dan Lutts and Chef Angie Lutts, the faces behind Beachside Angie’s. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Monday, September 8th til Friday, September 12th

• 7.7 billion operations per second

• Spheric Speech Clarity doubles your chances of hearing and understanding everything

• 10/10 surveyed audiologists report Phonak Audéo Sphere delivered an OUTSTANDING HEARING EXPERIENCE The First Hearing Aid with true AI Technology!

REAL ESTATE

Rollins Dunes home tops sales list in Flagler

Ahouse at 7 Rollins Dunes Drive in the Rollins Dunes subdivision was the top real estate transaction for Aug. 16-22 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The house sold on Aug. 18, for $735,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a fireplace and 2,013 square feet. It sold in 2016 for $450,000.

ALEXIS MILLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Condos

A condo at 28 Lafayette Lane sold on Aug. 22, for $240,000. Built in 2001, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,469 square feet. It sold in 2005 for $205,000.

A condo at 7 Sherbury Court sold on Aug. 22, for $219,000. Built in 1986, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,338 square feet. It sold in 2025 for $90,000.

A condo at 17 Masters Court sold on Aug. 22, for $210,000. Built in 1980, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,006 square feet. It sold in 2017 for $119,000.

A condo at 45 Riverview Bend South, Unit 1926, sold on Aug. 21, for $490,000. Built in 2006, the condo is a 3/3 and has 2,007 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $590,000.

A condo at 1601 North Central Ave., Unit 504, sold on Aug. 21, for $345,000. Built in 1984, the condo is a 2/2

and has 1,215 square feet. It sold in 2016 for $292,000.

A condo at 1200 Cinnamon Beach Way, Unit 1142, sold on Aug. 18, for $515,000. Built in 2004, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,682 square feet. It sold in 2017 for $270,000.

Indian Trails

A house at 2 Birch Haven Place sold on Aug. 22, for $395,900. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 1,873 square feet.

Matanzas Woods

A house at 43 Langdon Drive sold on Aug. 20, for $395,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool and 2,014 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $285,000.

Palm Harbor A house at 8 Corning Court sold on Aug. 22, for $495,000. Built in 1981, the house is a 2/2 and has a boat dock, a pool and 1,620 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $330,000.

Ormond home on five acres sells for $900K

Ahouse at 540 Leeway Trail in was the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea for the week of Aug. 9-15. The townhome sold on Aug. 15, for $900,000. Built in 2005, the house sits on five acres and is a 5/2.5 and has a fireplace, a pool, a spa and 3,000 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $955,000.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

Condos

The condo at 2860 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 105, sold on Aug. 11, for $300,000. Built in 1990, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,056 square feet. It last sold in June 2025 for $195,000.

The condo at 2860 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 208, sold on Aug. 15, for $230,000. Built in 1990, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,056 square feet. It last sold in 1990 for $65,000.

Breakaway Trails

The house at 9 Circle Creek Way sold on Aug. 11, for $640,000. Built in 2000, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 2,027 square feet. It last sold in 2005 for $315,000.

Broadwater 10 Broadwater Drive sold on Aug. 15, for $709,500. Built in 1992, the house is a 3/2.5 and has two fireplaces, a pool, an outdoor kitchen and 2,594 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $539,000.

Country Acres

The house at 255 Woodhaven Circle W. sold on Aug. 14, for $540,000. Built in 1994, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace, a pool, a spa and 2,469 square feet. It last sold

A house at 73 Foxhall Lane sold on Aug. 22, for $340,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,752 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $235,000.

A house at 75 Fortune Lane sold on Aug. 22, for $420,000. Built in 1989, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a fireplace and 2,409 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $272,000.

Pine Lakes A house at 6 Winchester Place sold on Aug. 22, for $319,000. Built in 1989, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,521 square feet. It sold in 2025 for $221,500.

A house at 7 White Oak Lane sold on Aug. 22, for $365,000. Built in 1992, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,518 square feet. It sold in 2017 for $165,000.

A house at 1 Waves Place sold on Aug.

in 2020 for $395,000.

Cupola at Oceanside

The townhome at 124 N.

Halifax Drive sold on Aug. 10, for $895,000. Built in 2024, the townhome is a 3/3.5 and has 2,473 square feet.

Halifax Plantation

The house at 3171 Connemara Drive sold on Aug. 11, for $419,000. Built in 2014, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,919 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $290,000.

The house at 3959 S. Chinook Lane sold on Aug. 11, for $640,000. Built in 1994, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,530 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $445,000.

The house at 2603 Kinsale Lane sold on Aug. 14, for $274,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,608 square feet.

Melrose

The house at 71 Fairview Ave. sold on Aug. 11, for $343,000. Built in 1951, the house is a 4/2 and has two fireplaces and 1,618 square feet. It last sold in 2015 for $142,000.

Not in subdivision

The house at 7 Tam O Shanter Lane sold on Aug. 11, for $100,000. Built in 1975, the house is a 2/1.5 and has a

in 2005, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,777 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $310,000.

A house at 21 Uniondale place sold on Aug. 22, for $358,582. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,265 square feet.

Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report. fireplace and 1,474 square feet. It last sold in 1975 for $27,000.

The house at 87 Ellsworth Ave. sold on Aug. 14, for $245,000. Built in 1955, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,597 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $160,000.

Ocean Village The house at 59 Cardinal Drive, Unit A, sold on Aug. 13, for $230,000. Built in 1947, the house is a 2/1 and has 808 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $136,500.

Rio Vista The house at 739 Buena Vista Ave., sold on Aug. 11, for $450,000. Built in 1954, the house is a 3/2.5 and has 2,052 square feet. It last sold in 2003 for $136,000.

Rockefeller Heights The house at 88 Valencia Drive sold on Aug. 12, for $345,000. Built in 1965, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,327 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $280,000.

Twin River Estates The house at 6 Waterberry Circle sold on Aug. 15, for $260,000. Built in 1976, the house is a 4/2 and has a fireplace, a pool, boat dock and 2,400 square feet. It last sold in 2004 for $375,000.

Woodland The house at 16 Red Maple Circle sold on Aug. 13, for $195,000. Built in 1978, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,720 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $125,000.

Woodmere The house at 860 Lindenwood Circle N. sold on Aug. 11, for $338,000. Built in 1976, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,830 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $245,000. John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.

PALM COAST

ORMOND BEACH

Field of dreams

MICHELE MEYERS CONTRIBUTING WRITER

As a little girl, Deanna Newkirk did not dream of owning batting cages.

Her passion for dance led her to be a part of Seabreeze High School’s Sunsations Dance Team and also to found the Appalachian State University Elite Dance Team in Boone, North Carolina, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology and a minor in business management. She continued her prowess in dance as an NFL cheerleader for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Needless to say, dancing was probably the dream.

Today, Newkirk is a mom to 15-year-old son Dallas who recently started his freshman year at Seabreeze where he will play baseball. She said it

is a mother’s love of a son that loves baseball that has taken her on this journey to owning the Volusia Sports Center — a non-profit baseball and softball training facility that happens to include indoor batting cages.

“The one common denominator is a mother’s love — a parent’s love,” she said. “The things we do for our children like this whole facility, moving forward on the field, building the infield — these people who have all come full circle to help make this happen. I could have never done this by myself. It’s all teamwork. The stuff parents go through to drive it and make it happen is so involved.”

VSC opened in spring 2023 as a multi-sport training facility. Newkirk recently changed it to be predominantly a baseball and softball training facility following the addition of the SBA Elite travel league — an affiliate of the Showcase Baseball Academy based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Sean Harmon, president of The SBA Clubhouse

in Brooksville, Florida, will run the league with the support of his team of professional-level coaches, current and former college athletes. Newkirk has stepped into the role as administrator for the SBA Elite teams.

In January 2026, Newkirk said, she will sell the business to Harmon, not to include the building or land which is owned by her father Roy Johnson and in trust for her son Dallas. She said it will be a good time for her to step away from the business and focus on supporting Dallas while he attends high school. Newkirk has already secured a grant to pay for a new Seabreeze baseball scoreboard at the Ormond Beach Sports Complex’s Wendelstedt fields.

Harmon said he was already considering expansion of The SBA Clubhouse when Newkirk messaged him the offer on Facebook in December last year. The opportunity to run the SBA Elite in Ormond Beach was serendipitous — he said yes.

Team tryouts for 10U-14U age groups were held in spring. Coach resumes were submitted and scrutinized.

“Teams were the first piece to taking this over,” Harmon said. “So now that we have a good set of players and coaches, that opens the door to creating something really special over here that’s more than just a batting cage.”

SBA Elite currently operates four teams — 10U, 11U, 12U and 13U — with the majority of coaches having collegiate playing experience and success. Former MLB pitcher Scott Moss is the teams director and pitching coach. He graduated from DeLand High School in 2013 as a top lefthanded pitcher and played for the Florida Gators. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in 2016.

The Clubhouse in the Tampa area is an ultra high-level training center where college and professional players utilize the facility on a regular basis. There is also an academy for elementary through high school-aged athletes. Harmon opened the center in 2021 and is in his fifth year of operation. He has been with the SBA for three years.

At the VSC, he plans on having a weight center and player

access to high-level coaches. He said Moss is already bringing invaluable knowledge to his pitchers who may not have had exposure to a former professional player in the area.

“We’re trying to bring some of what we’ve done over there (Brooksville) and model that over here for the VSC,” Harmon said. “We’d like to create more of a higher level training center for players like K.J. (Schoeps) that are above average — players that need more than just the standard.”

K.J., 11, plays on the 12U and 13U SBA Elite teams and was recently invited to play on the SBA Bolts National team. Dallas also received an invitation to play with the Bolts. K.J. said he has been playing baseball for six years and usually plays shortstop or pitches. His father, Kurt Schoeps, a captain with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, said K.J. was introduced to baseball at an early age by his 15-year-old daughter Katelyn who plays softball at Spruce Creek High School.

“He’s been around the sport for so long that he just naturally picked it up,” Kurt said.

“I think one of the things that has helped is he’s always had good coaches and he’s always had baseball people in his life. There’s a coach locally, Antwan Brown, and he’s always been with K.J. since he was literally 3 years old. K.J. has always been treated as a normal kid, not just a little kid.”

Kurt said it was important to find an organization that has the ability to take K.J. to the next level that takes into consideration his path to high school, eventually to college and hopefully professional ball.

“SBA seemed like a great fit

from the moment we met Sean and we’ve known Deanna for a while,” Kurt said. “SBA is probably going to be one of the top organizations in the state and hopefully nationally.”

As the teams came together and practice became a necessity, Newkirk reached out to local baseball fields and sports complexes to make reservations. She had success reserving the Wendelstedt fields for the 13U team but not for the other three teams. Daytona’s Bethune Point was saved for the East Coast Storm, Port Orange’s fields were occupied by Crush Baseball and South Daytona was a no-go for travel teams.

Undeterred, Newkirk decided to build her own outdoor turf infield. After she purchased the used turf, her staff laid out all 3,000 square feet of it, upgraded the fencing, made LED lighting and electrical improvements, added safety netting and two complete infield baselines. Total cost of the project was just under $25,000 of which $12,750 has been secured through donations. The facility is approximately $12,000 short. Newkirk said there are plenty of opportunities for local businesses to get involved.

“We’re not just building fields,” she said. “We’re building futures. We’d love for the community to be a part of that.”

“The one common denominator is a mother’s love — a parent’s love. The things we do for our children like this whole facility, moving forward on the field, building the infield...The stuff parents go through to drive it and make it happen is so involved.”

Volusia Sports Center owner Deanna Newkirk

Volusia Sports Center owner Deanna Newkirk brings SBA Elite into fold.

DEANNA NEWKIRK, Volusia Sports Center owner

SBA coaches T Mack (left) and Kyle Burkhead (right) hit balls for the team at the Volusia Sports Center. Photos by Michele Meyers

Showcase Baseball Academy 12U player Jordan “J.J.” Lichty makes a catch during practice

Showcase Baseball Academy player K.J. Schoeps finishes practice.

Mainland topples three-time defending state champ Cocoa

Sebastian Johnson threw 3 touchdown passes as the Bucs defeated the Tigers 19-14 and avenged a lopsided 2024 loss.

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The No. 1 question for the Mainland Bucs entering their season-opener Friday, Aug. 29 — on the road against Cocoa High — was would they be able to compete with the three-time defending state champion. Cocoa thrashed the Bucs 51-0 last season.

A key question at halftime, when the Bucs led 19-0, was would they be able to handle a second-half surge from the Tigers. With Mainland’s 19-14 victory, the Bucs not only silenced doubters, but they made a statement, albeit an

early season one: Last season was an aberration.

Mainland reached the playoffs for the 31st consecutive season last year, but they finished with a 5-6 record. It was the first time they had finished under .500 in 14 seasons.

“It feels good,” Mainland coach Jerrime Bell said a day after the win. “They’re a tough opponent. They fought for four quarters as our guys did, and we came out on top. (Our players) were determined to show the state that this is a different team. We’re not same team as last year — 51-0 is not the Mainland way, and (we) came out and proved it.”

The Bucs are just two years removed from a state championship. While it may be too early to know if they are back to that level, in Cocoa they beat a team that has not only won three state titles in a row but has won seven state championships since 2008 and has advanced to the state

“(Our players) were determined to show the state that this is a different team. We’re not same team as last year — 51-0 is not the Mainland way, and (we) came out and proved it. ”

semifinals 18 years in a row.

The Bucs jumped out to a big first-half lead on the Tigers behind senior quarterback Sebastian Johnson’s three long touchdown passes to Chris Butler, Christian Cooper and Kadin Flores. An interception by Denzel Shropshire set up the second touchdown.

Bell said Mainland penalties helped give the Tigers short fields in the second half and they were able to capitalize with two touchdowns. But Bubba Westbrook had a key interception late in the game to help preserve Mainland’s lead.

“It was a complete game on both sides of the football,” Bell said of the Bucs’ performance. “(This is) a good group. We’re extremely talented at the wide receiver position as well as all around the field.”

While the Bucs were a week behind with a bye in Week 1, Bell said that turned out to be an advantage.

“We were able to get healthy,” he said. “We still have a starting receiver and an offensive lineman out, but it worked out. We’re as healthy as we probably could have been.”

The Bucs (1-0) will host Flagler Palm Coast (1-1) on Friday, Sept. 5, in their home opener at Daytona Stadium.

“They beat us last year (7-2 at FPC), so that’s another chance to get a bad taste out our mouth,” Bell said. “(FPC

have a really good football team, so it will be a good game.”

Inter-United U17 girls soccer team wins tournament

PUZZLED

coach) Patrick Turner will

Johnson looks for a receiver in Bethune-Cookman’s 7-on-7 tournament in June. File photo by Michele Meyers

JERRIME BELL, Mainland coach

The Inter-United Soccer Club of Palm Coast’s U17 girls team won the 33rd annual Jacksonville FC Labor Day Shootout, Aug. 29-31, with three consecutive 2-0 shutouts. The I-U team defeated Jacksonville FC with goals by Zoe Almberg and Hailey Sammons on Aug. 29. On Aug. 30, I-U defeated Florida Kraze Krush with goals by Rhyan Bennett and Kaylin Henthorn. And on Aug. 31, I-U beat Florida Premier FC with Carsyn O’Linn scoring both goals. The defensive players contributing to the three straight clean sheets were Belle Alford, Rebeka Cordero, Payton Daniels, Charlie Parsons, Julia McKenna, Anastasia Wilgis, Adelyn Allen, Marianna Dimillo, Emma Lightfoot, Colby Vitale, Chloe Ascone and goalkeeper Ella Forbes. Other members of the team included Alexandria Villalobos, Victoria Cardenas, Julia McKenna, Nicolle Raciborski, Alexa Sanchez and Emma Lightfoot with Casey O’Linn coaching.

Late turnovers mar outstanding game by Nolan Caliendo in FPC loss

Caliendo caught 13 passes for 172 yards and three touchdowns from quarterback Caden Burchfield.

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

When Flagler Palm Coast safety Kenneth Robinson intercepted an overthrown pass with 6 minutes left in the game, the Bulldogs appeared to be back in business.

FPC trailed Lake Howell 21-19, but quarterback Caden Burchfield and receiver Nolan Caliendo seemed to be able to connect whenever they needed a big play. And they needed one now.

But in an absurd ending to an exciting back-and-forth battle, Robinson’s pick was just the first of four consecutive turnovers by the two teams. Unfortunately for the Bulldogs, they committed the final turnover in this game of hot potato, and the Silver Hawks went on to score again and hand FPC a 28-19 loss on Friday, Aug. 29, at Sal Campanella Stadium.

“Those two turnovers are what killed us,” FPC coach Patrick Turner said. “We had an opportunity, we’re driving, and we coughed it up. You don’t win by turning the ball over.”

Unless the other team turns the ball over too. After Robinson’s interception, Lake Howell’s Tyler Thermezi intercepted a Burchfield pass near midfield. Two plays later, FPC

“Burchfield, he’s a great QB. I love him to death. Having that connection with him is big.” NOLAN CALIENDO

got the ball back again with Tywann Andrews recovering a Lake Howell fumble. But with 3:51 left, Burchfield fumbled and the Silver Hawks marched 52 yards with running back Malek Wilkerson putting the game out of reach with a 5-yard touchdown run.

FPC’s loss overshadowed an outstanding game by Caliendo who caught 13 passes for 172 yards and all three FPC touchdowns.

In two games this season, Caliendo has 17 catches for 236 yards and four touchdowns. Burchfield delivered 15 of those passes.

“Burchfield, he’s a great QB,” Caliendo said. “I love him to death. Having that

connection with him is big.”

La’Darius Simmons and Burchfield split time at quarterback in the season opener against Matanzas, but Simmons missed the Lake Howell game with an ankle injury. The Bulldogs were without several players in the game, but their offense was able to move up and down the field until late when Lake Howell took a player out of the box and added a second high safety.

“We were doing really good,” Caliendo said. “We had great passes, great drives. We just got to fix the small things, the holding calls, penalties; just no fumbles or picks.”

Burchfield completed 21 of

30 passes for 207 yards with two interceptions and three TDs of 7, 36 and 9 yards to Caliendo. The Bulldogs also ran for more than 100 yards with Darwin Harris rushing for 66 yards and Burchfield adding 42 yards with his legs.

“Offensively speaking, everything that we had in the game plan was working extremely well. We just had some unfortunate things happen,” Turner said.

Last year, FPC crushed Lake

Howell 56-15 in the seasonopener. This year, a muchimproved Silver Hawks team was scheduled in between two of the Bulldogs’ biggest rivals. FPC was coming off an emotional 26-14 win against Matanzas. They visit Mainland on Friday, Sept. 5.

“Last week, our kids were locked in,” Turner said. “They want to beat the rivals, and then this team shows up. They smoked them last year. I tried to tell them that this was not the same team. But if we capitalize on those two possessions, it’s a different ball game.”

Matanzas wins volleyball opener in Menendez’s return as head coach

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Matanzas swept Mainland 3-0 on Wednesday, Aug. 27, in Julie Menendez’s return as the Pirates’ head volleyball coach.

While Mainland was playing its fourth match of the season, this was the Pirates’ season-opener on their newly surfaced gym floor.

The Pirates defeated the Bucs, 25-12, 25-7, 25-13. Menendez is in her 12th year as a volleyball coach with Matanzas, but this is her first year as Pirates’ head coach since 2021. She takes over for Dawn Moses, who led the team the past three seasons.

While Matanzas has a bunch of new players this season, Menendez’s relationship with some goes way back.

“She was my third-grade PE teacher at Belle Terre Elementary School, and she was my first-ever club coach,” junior setter Haley Stewart

“We have a very well-rounded hitting team. But can Sanigh hit it hard? Oh, yeah.”

JULIE MENENDEZ

said. “She shaped me into the athlete I am today.” Stewart played on the Pirates’ JV team last year where Menendez was her

coach.

“We moved up together,” Stewart said. “I’m excited for this season with her.”

The Pirates have only two seniors in Olivia Chochev and Nevaeh Walker, but they have a lot of experienced volleyball players, several — including junior outside hitter Sanigh Arneaud — who have played on the Winnerz Circle travel

team. Arneaud had 201 kills and 154 digs for First Baptist Christian Academy last year.

Arneaud is one of several Matanzas hitters and middle blockers who can attack the net, Menendez said.

“We have a very wellrounded hitting team,” she said. “But can Sanigh hit it hard? Oh, yeah.

“We have a very unselfish team,” Menedez added. “They’re very skilled and very smart, and everyone plays, which is nice.”

The Bucs (0-5) have a new coach in Stephen Young, and, like Matanzas, a lot of new faces.

“This is a new team. They graduated seven of 11 last year,” Young said. “They’re fighting very hard. We have some things to work on, but it’s still early in the season.”

Mainland lost 3-1 to Father Lopez on Aug. 28, one night after playing at Matanzas. The Bucs battled to win the second set in extra points at 28-26.

Father Lopez improved to 2-2 with the four-set victory. Senior Jeslene Gonzalez led the Bucs with 5 kills and 10 digs against the Green Wave.

The Pirates defeated Mainland in three sets.

Mainland’s Krista Greco passes.

The Pirates celebrate their three-set sweep of the Bucs. Photos by Brent Woronoff

Matanzas junior Sanigh Arneaud serves.

Mainland sophomore Kaliyah Legette had two serving aces against Matanzas.

Matanzas sophomore setter Analise Smith serves. Matanzas junior Sanigh Arneaud (4) hits between Mainland’s Jeslene Gonzalez (18) and Aubree Morgan.

Sophomore libero Aliya LugoNavas serves for the Pirates.

FPC color guard members before the game.

FPC’s Caden Burchfield (11) runs a quarterback keeper.

FPC color guard member Trinity Williams performs at halftime.

FPC drum major Tatev Hartenyan.

FPC running back Darwin Harris (25) tries to break out of the grasp of a Lake Howell defender.

Photos by Brent Woronoff

Lawn Care

Trimming Specials “Everything but the Lawn” Trimming, Weeding, Maintenance, Mulch, Rocks, Design, Pressure Washing & More Palm Coast Only 631-5655203 or 386-263-2680

Yard Sale

Cabinet shop closing Friday August 22, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM - Saturday August 23, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM - Rain or Shine

2 Market Place Owner retiring. Everything for sale shop and showroom to include displays, bits, saws, materials, all tools. Open house 8/22/25 & 8/23/25, 9:00AM - 4:00PM, or call 386-445-9627 to set up an appointment to come in & browse.

Wanted

Magic Illusion Producer. Daytona Magic Company LLC. Ormond Beach, FL (Volusia county). Comprehensive production & direction of illusions for professional & amateur magicians, encompassing everything from creative planning to technical execution. Manages budgets, schedules, & logistics, ensuring project viability. Develops scripts, performances & original illusions, & modifies existing tricks to create unique experiences. Ensures compliance with safety standards. Reqs: HS diploma from US or foreign accredited school & 4 yrs exp in the magic

DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at Noon; Service Directory - Friday at 3PM

• PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card

sdm@gmail.com

Palatka Housing Authority (PHA) is requesting proposals from qualified firms with prior experience in public housing authority financial management to provide interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO) services. The selected firm will support the agency in stabilizing financial operations, training incoming financial leadership, and ensuring compliance with HUD and related regulations. Instruction to this Request for Proposals can be obtained from the PHA Website at: www. palatkaha.org (under the procurement section). Proposals are due no later than by 2 pm. September 25, 2025.

INFORMATION & RATES: 386-447-9723 • info@observerlocalnews. com • classifieds.palmcoastobserver.com

The Observer reserves the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only. *All ads are subject to the approval of the Publisher.

*It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in the Palm Coast Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with towncodes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property. Notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF FLORIDA IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 2025 10813 CIDL FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff, vs. KYLE LATOUR, et al., Defendant. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Summary Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered August 08, 2025 in Civil Case No. 2025 10813 CIDL of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT in and for Volusia County, Deland, Florida, wherein FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION is Plaintiff and Kyle Latour, et al., are Defendants, the Clerk of Court, LAURA E. ROTH, ESQ., will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash electronically at www.volusia. realforeclose.com in accordance with Chapter 45, Florida Statutes on the 25th day of September, 2025 at 11:00 AM on the following described property as set forth in said Summary Final Judgment, to-wit: Lot 7, Block 560, Deltona Lakes Unit Seventeen, according to the map or plat thereof as recorded in Map Book 25, Pages 241 through 244, inclusive, of the Public Records of Volusia County, Florida. Any person claiming an interest 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. If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to ac-

IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 2025 11744 CICI ROCKET MORTGAGE, LLC F/K/A QUICKEN LOANS, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHERS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF TROY BEDELL, JR., DECEASED, et. al. Defendant(s), TO: THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHERS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF TROY BEDELL, JR., DECEASED, whose residence is unknown if he/she/they be living; and if he/she/they be dead, the unknown defendants who may be spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, assignees, lienors, creditors, trustees, and all parties claiming an interest by, through, under or against the Defendants, who are not known to be dead or alive, and all parties having or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property described in the mortgage being foreclosed herein. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a mortgage on the following property: LOT 3 AND NORTHERLY 30 FEET OF LOT 4, BLOCK 7, HARBOR POINT SUBDIVISION, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 11, PAGE 91, PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSION COUNTY, FLORIDA. has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on counsel for Plaintiff,

DIVISION File No. 2025 12321 PRDL Division PROBATE IN RE: ESTATE OF JOSEPH STEVEN FERBER Deceased. The administration of the estate of JOSEPH STEVEN FERBER, deceased, whose date of death was May 25, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 101 N. Alabama Avenue, Deland, Florida 32724. The names and addresses of the personal representatives and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is September 4, 2025. Personal Representative: MICHAEL FERBER 279 Main Road Lake Mary, Florida 32746

Attorney for Personal Representative: MICHAEL G. HORTON

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 123841

MICHAEL G. HORTON, P.A. 3721 South Highway 27, Suite A Clermont, FL 34711 Telephone: (352) 394-4008 Fax: (352) 394-5805

E-Mail: michael@mghpa.com

Secondary E-Mail: trish@mghpa.com September 4, 11, 2025 25-00412I

cess court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114; (386) 257-6096. Hearing or voice impaired, please call 1 (800) 955-8770.

/s/Robyn Katz Robyn Katz, Esq. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLP Attorney for Plaintiff 225 East Robinson Street, Suite 155 Orlando, FL 32801 Phone: (407) 674-1850 Fax: (321) 248-0420 Email: MRService@mccalla.com Fla. Bar No.: 146803 25-11508FL September 4, 11, 2025 25-00407I

FIRST INSERTION

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2025-12071-PROL Division Probate IN RE: ESTATE OF JOHN LOCKWOOD a/k/a JOHN F. LOCKWOOD Deceased. The ancillary administration of the Estate of John Lockwood, deceased, whose date of death was June 8, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 101 North Alabama Avenue, Deland, Florida 32724. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of 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. The Personal Representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. 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 DECEDENTS DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is September 4, 2025. Personal Representative: Gary Lockwood 136 Boston Road Ontario, New York 14519

Attorney for Personal Representative: Hannon M. Cannon, Esq. E-mail Addresses: hcannon@woodsoviatt.com

Florida Bar No. FL-1054745

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP 1900 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, New York 14604 Telephone: (585) 987-2800 September 4, 11, 2025 25-00414I

FIRST INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2025 12260 PRDL Division 10 IN RE: ESTATE OF GERALD L. ANDERSON Deceased.

The administration of the estate of Gerald L. Anderson, deceased, whose date of death was April 7, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is PO Box 6043, Deland, FL 32721-6043. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The

NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION CASE NO. 2025 11011 CICI MORTGAGE RESEARCH CENTER, LLC D/B/A VETERANS UNITED HOME LOANS, A MISSOURI LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, Plaintiff, vs. BRIAN MCANDREW; BROOKE E. BUSTRANN; UNKNOWN PERSON(S) IN POSSESSION OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY, Defendant(s) To the following Defendant(s): BRIAN MCANDREW (LAST KNOWN ADDRESS) 4637 SECRET RIVER TRAIL PORT ORANGE, FLORIDA 32129 BROOKE E. BUSTRANN (LAST KNOWN ADDRESS) 4637 SECRET RIVER TRAIL PORT ORANGE, FLORIDA 32129 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Foreclosure of Mortgage on the following described property: LOT 121, CROSS CREEK PHASE II, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 43, PAGE 56, PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. a/k/a 4637 SECRET RIVER TRAIL, PORT ORANGE, FLORIDA 32129 has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it, on Kahane & Associates, P.A., Attorney for Plaintiff, whose address

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO. 2019 30682 CICI GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION HSBC BANK USA, N.A., AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED NOTEHOLDERS OF RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST 2005-4, RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN ASSET-BACKED NOTES, SERIES 2005-4, Plaintiff, vs. CHRISTOPHER N. BOTTS AND THOMAS N. BOTTS, et al. Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated June 21, 2024, and entered in 2019 30682 CICI of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH Judicial Circuit in and for Volusia County, Florida, wherein HSBC BANK USA, N.A., AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED NOTEHOLDERS OF RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST 2005-4, RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN ASSET-BACKED NOTES, SERIES 2005-4 is the Plaintiff and PATRICIA BOTTS; THOMAS N. BOTTS; STATE OF FLORIDA, DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE; CLERK OF THE COURT, VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF THOMAS N. BOTTS N/K/A PATRICIA BOTTS are the Defendant(s). Laura E. Roth as the Clerk of the Circuit Court will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash at www.volusia.realforeclose.com, at 11:00 AM, on September 24, 2025, the following described property as set forth in said

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS TO CONSIDER IMPOSITION OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS AND ADOPTION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL PURSUANT TO SECTIONS 170.07 AND 197.3632(4)(b), FLORIDA STATUTES, BY THE DEERING PARK STEWARDSHIP DISTRICT AND NOTICE OF MEETING OF BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

The Board of Supervisors (“Board”) of the Deering Park Stewardship District (“District”) will hold public hearings and a regular board meeting on September 29, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at the Storch Law Firm, 420 S Nova Road, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114, to consider the adoption of an assessment roll, the imposition of special assessments to secure proposed bonds on benefited lands within the Deering Park Stewardship District (“District”), a depiction of which lands is shown below, and to provide for the levy, collection and enforcement of the special assessments. The streets and areas to be improved and property subject to the special assessments are geographically depicted below and in the District’s Master and Supplemental Engineers Report for DPSD JV1 #1, dated August 12, 2025, (the “Improvement Plan”). The public hearings are being conducted pursuant to Chapter 2017-206, Laws of Florida, and Chapters 170, 189 and 197, Florida Statutes. A description of the property to be assessed and the amount to be assessed to each piece or parcel of property may be ascertained at the District Manager’s Office located at 2300 Glades Road, Suite 410W, Boca Raton, Florida 33431, (561) 571-0010.

The District is a unit of special-purpose local government responsible for providing infrastructure improvements for lands within the District. The infrastructure improvements (“Improvements”) are currently expected to include, but are not limited to, roadways, alleys, mobility trails, stormwater management facilities, water distribution system, wastewater system, reclaim water system, landscaping, hardscaping and irrigation system improvements, recreation improvements, street lighting improvements, and other improvements, all as more specifically described in the Improvement Plan, on file and available during normal business hours at the address provided above. The District intends to impose assessments on benefited lands within the District in the manner set forth in the District’s Master Special Assessment Methodology Report for the DPSD JV1 #1, dated August 12, 2025 (the “Assessment Report”), which is on file and available during normal business hours at the address provided above. The purpose of any such assessment is to secure the bonds issued to fund the Improvements. As described in more detail in the Assessment Report, the District’s assessments will be levied against all benefitted lands within the District. The Assessment Report identifies the legal description of the property within the District which will be subject to the assessments and the assessment amounts per parcel for each land use category that is currently expected to be assessed. The method of allocating assessments for the Improvements to be funded by the District will initially be determined on an equal assessment per gross acre basis. The methodology is explained in more detail in the Assessment Report. Also as described in more detail in the Assessment Report, the District’s assessments will be levied against all assessable lands within the District. Please consult the Assessment Report for more details. The annual principal assessment levied against each parcel will be based on repayment over thirty (30) years of the total debt allocated to each parcel. The District expects to collect sufficient revenues to retire no more than $119,790,000 in debt to be assessed by the District, inclusive of fees and costs of collection or enforcement, discounts for early payment and interest. The proposed annual schedule of assessments is as follows:

The assessments may be prepaid in whole at any time, or in some instances in part, or may be paid in not more than thirty (30) annual installments subsequent to the issuance of debt to finance the Improvements. These annual assessments will be collected on the Volusia County tax roll by the Tax Collector. Alternatively, the District may choose to directly collect and enforce these assessments. All persons interested may ascertain the description of each property to be assessed and the amount to be assessed to each piece or parcel of property at the District Manager’s Office stated above. All affected property owners have the right to appear at the public hearings and the right to file written objections with the District within twenty (20) days of the publication of this notice. Also on September 29, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Storch Law Firm, 420 S Nova Road, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114, the Board will hold a regular public meeting to consider any other business that may lawfully be considered by the District. The Board meeting and hearings are open to the public and will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Florida law for special districts. The Board meeting and/ or the public hearings may be continued in progress to a date and time certain announced at the meeting and/or hearings. If anyone chooses to appeal any decision of the Board with respect to any matter considered at the meeting or hearings, such person will need a record of the proceedings and should accordingly ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which includes the testimony and evidence upon which such appeal is to be based.

Any person requiring special accommodations at the meeting or hearings because of a disability or physical impairment should contact the District Manager’s Office at (561) 571-0010 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the Florida Relay Service at 1-800-955-8770 for aid in contacting the District Manager’s office. RESOLUTION 2025-17 A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE DEERING PARK STEWARDSHIP DISTRICT RESCINDING RESOLUTIONS 2025-04, 2025-05, AND 2025-08 IN THEIR ENTIRETY; DECLARING SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS; INDICATING THE LOCATION, NATURE AND ESTIMATED COST OF THOSE INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS WHOSE COST IS TO BE DEFRAYED BY THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS; PROVIDING THE PORTION OF THE ESTIMATED COST OF THE IMPROVEMENTS TO BE DEFRAYED BY THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS; PROVIDING THE MANNER IN WHICH SUCH SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS SHALL BE MADE; PROVIDING WHEN SUCH SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS SHALL BE PAID; DESIGNATING LANDS UPON WHICH THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS SHALL BE LEVIED; PROVIDING FOR AN ASSESSMENT PLAT; ADOPTING A PRELIMINARY ASSESSMENT ROLL; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION OF THIS RESOLUTION.

WHEREAS, the Deering Park Stewardship District (the “District”) is a local unit of special-purpose government located in Brevard and Volusia Counties and the City of Edgewater, and established pursuant to Chapter 2020-197, Laws of Florida (the “Act”) for the purposes of constructing, installing, acquiring, operating and/or maintaining public infrastructure improvements; and WHEREAS, the District has previously adopted Resolutions 2025-04, 2025-05, and 2025-08 regarding the imposition of special assessment and setting a public hearing thereon, which the District desires to rescind in their entirety; and WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors (the “Board”) of the District hereby determines to undertake, install, plan, establish, construct or reconstruct, enlarge or extend, equip, acquire, operate, and/or maintain the infrastructure improvements (the “Improvements”) described in the District’s Master and Supplemental Engineers Report for DPSD JV1 #1, dated August 12, 2025, attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by reference; and WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the District to pay the cost of the Improvements by special assessments pursuant to Chapter 2020-197, Laws of Florida (the “Assessments”); and WHEREAS, the District is empowered by Chapter 2020-197, Laws of Florida, and Chapters 170 and 197, Florida Statutes, to finance, fund, plan, establish, acquire, construct or reconstruct, enlarge or extend, equip, operate, and maintain the Improvements and to impose,

FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF FLORIDA IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 2025 11601 CIDL THE MORTGAGE FIRM, INC., Plaintiff, vs. VANESSA DEANN HERNANDEZ, et al., Defendant. To: VANESSA DEANN HERNANDEZ 1548 BALTIMORE AVENUE, DELTONA, FL 32725 UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF VANESSA DEANN HERNANDEZ 1548 BALTIMORE AVENUE, DELTONA, FL 32725 LAST KNOWN ADDRESS STATED, CURRENT RESIDENCE UNKNOWN YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose Mortgage covering

NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO. 2025 12334 CICI U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR RESIDENTIAL ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION, HOME EQUITY MORTGAGE ASSET-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-EMX3, Plaintiff, vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS OF TRENIQUA LASHAWN CULVER A/K/A TRENIQUA L. CULVER A/K/A TRENIQUA LASHAWN ANDERSON A/, ET AL. Defendants To the following Defendant(s): UNKNOWN HEIRS OF TRENIQUA LASHAWN CULVER A/K/A TRENIQUA L. CULVER A/K/A TRENIQUA LASHAWN ANDERSON A/K/A TRENIQUA L. ANDERSON (CURRENT RESIDENCE UNKNOWN) Last Known Address: UNKNOWN YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action for Foreclosure of Mortgage on the following described property: LOT 54, BLOCK 18, MADISON HEIGHTS, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 11, PAGE 211, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. A/K/A 720 IOWA STREET, DAYTONA BEACH FL 32114-4574 has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to J. Anthony Van Ness, Esq. at VAN NESS LAW FIRM, PLC, Attorney for the Plaintiff, whose address is 1239 E. NEWPORT CENTER DRIVE, SUITE #110, DEERFIELD BEACH, FL 33442 on or before October 13, 2025 and file the original with the Clerk of this Court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint. This notice is provided to Administrative Order No. 2065. If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance.

levy and collect the Assessments; and WHEREAS, the District hereby determines that benefits will accrue to the property improved, the amount of those benefits, and that special assessments will be made in proportion to the benefits received as set forth in the Master Special Assessment Methodology Report for the DPSD JV1 #1, dated August 12, 2025, attached hereto as Exhibit B and incorporated herein by reference and on file at 2300 Glades Road, Suite 410W, Boca Raton, Florida 33431 (the “District Records Office”); and

WHEREAS, the District hereby determines that the Assessments to be levied will not exceed the benefit to the property improved.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE DEERING PARK

STEWARDSHIP DISTRICT:

1. Assessments shall be levied to defray a portion of the cost of the Improvements.

2. The nature and general location of, and plans and specifications for, the Improvements are described in Exhibit A, which is on file at the District Records Office. Exhibit B is also on file and available for public inspection at the same location.

3. The total estimated cost of the Improvements is $87,335,000 (the “Estimated Cost”).

4. The Assessments

5.

6. The Assessments shall be levied, within the District, on all lots and lands adjoining and contiguous or bounding and abutting upon the Improvements or specially benefitted thereby and further designated by the assessment plat hereinafter provided for.

7. There is on file, at the District Records Office, an assessment plat showing the area to be assessed, with certain plans and specifications describing the Improvements and the estimated cost of the Improvements, all of which shall be open to inspection by the public.

8. Commencing with the year in which the Assessments are levied and confirmed, the Assessments shall be paid in not more than (30) thirty annual installments. The Assessments may be payable at the same time and in the same manner as are ad-valorem taxes and collected pursuant to Chapter 197, Florida Statutes; provided, however, that in the event the uniform non ad-valorem assessment method of collecting the Assessments is not available to the District in any year, or if determined by the District to be in its best interest, the Assessments may be collected as is otherwise permitted by law.

9. The District Manager has caused to be made a preliminary assessment roll, in accordance with the method of assessment described in Exhibit B hereto, which shows the lots and lands assessed, the amount of benefit to and the assessment against each lot or parcel of land and the number of annual installments into which the assessment may be divided, which assessment roll is hereby adopted and approved as the District’s preliminary assessment roll.

Secretary/Assistant

September 4, 11, 2025 25-00416I

To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, (386) 257-6096. Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711.

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) 2576096, 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 DISCAPACID-

ADES Si usted es una person con discapacidad que necesita una adaptación para poder participar en este procedimiento, usted tiene el derecho a que se le proporcione cierta asistencia, sin incurrir en gastos. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Administración Judicial (Court Administration), 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, (386) 257-6096, con no menos de 7 dias de antelación de su cita de comparecencia ante el juez, o de inmediato al recibir esta notificación si la cita de comparecencia está dentro de un plazo menos de 7 días ; si usted tiene una discapacidad del habla o del oído, llame al 711.

ESTOS NUMEROS TELEFONICOS NO SON PARA OBTENER INFORMACION JUDICIAL WITNESS my hand and the seal of this Court this 27 day of August, 2025. LAURA E ROTH CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT (SEAL) By /s/ Jennifer Vazquez As Deputy Clerk J. Anthony Van Ness, Esq. VAN NESS LAW FIRM, PLC Attorney for the Plaintiff 1239 E. NEWPORT CENTER DRIVE, SUITE #110 DEERFIELD BEACH, FL 33442 PHH20981-25/cam September 4, 11, 2025 25-00410I FIRST

Email your Legal Notice

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

File No. 2025 11548 PRDL Division 10 IN RE: ESTATE OF Daniel Dredonne Moquin, aka Daniel D. Moquin, Deceased. The administration of the estate of Daniel Dredonne Moquin, aka Daniel D. Moquin, deceased, whose date of death was September 10, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 101 N. Alabama Ave., DeLand, FL 32724. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served, must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

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.

The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216 732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PE RIOD 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: September 4, 2025. Sherry Garner Moquin