Beach
Susan Hansen helps decorate the Christmas tree inside The Casements. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
NEWS BRIEFS
Previously deported man arrested for burglary
A previously deported Colombian national was arrested following an 11-month investigation into a residential burglary on Pritchard Lane, in Palm Coast.
William Vargas-Carmona, 33, of Jacksonville, was originally deported in September 2024 after he was found to be in the United States illegally, according to a FCSO press release. He since re-entered the country without permission and is now facing a two felony charges for burglary and grand theft.
In January, the FCSO received a call that a home on Pritchard Lane had been ransacked. During the investigation, detectives found that the suspect had covered a home security camera with a jacket, turned off the circuit breaker and internet and stole
COPS CORNER
NOV. 5
RENTAL THEFT
2:53 p.m. — First block of Coquina Ridge Way, Ormond Beach Stolen vehicle. An Ormond Beach couple called police after a vehicle they had rented to a third-party company failed to be returned. According to a police incident report, the couple had rented the car for a threeday period. Shortly after the rental began, they received a message on the company’s app that the renter, a Day-
between $2,500 and $3,000, the press release said. While collecting evidence, detectives found a blood smear on a pizza box in the kitchen, the press release said. A sample was collected and sent to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for analysis.
The results did not come in until Aug. 18, but the FDLE found a match to the DNA in a previous offender, William Vargas-Carmona, the press release said.
On Oct. 14, detectives obtained a warrant for VargasCarmona’s arrest and on Nov. 21, U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement notified the FCSO Fugitive Unit that they had located VargasCarmona in Jacksonville. ICE agents arrested him.
18-month investigation into drive-by shooting leads to arrest
After an 18-month investigation, a man has been arrested in connection to the June 2024 drive-by shooting in Hymon Circle.
tona Beach man, had been arrested.
The person messaging the couple told them the renter was his uncle and that he had the car but wasn’t sure where the keys were or where he should drop it off to return it. In later messages, the person said he had retrieved the keys from his uncle’s belongings. The couple gave their residential address and instructed the vehicle be dropped off or they would report it as stolen. However, the vehicle’s GPS ceased to operate just as they were supposed to return it. They pressed charges.
NOV. 19
MILLION-DOLLAR MASKS
4:03 p.m. — 1300 block of
Traycan T. Verdell, 27, was taken into custody over the Thanksgiving holidays by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, according to a Bunnell Police Department press release. Verdell has been charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and shooting or throwing a deadly missile into an occupied building, with bond set at $10,000.
The June 19, 2024 shooting took place at around 12:22 a.m. BPD officers responded to a report of multiple gunshots, but only found shell casings left in the road by the time they arrived. Video evidence later showed a car arriving, a suspect walking around the victim’s residence, and then firing numerous rounds at the home as the car drove away, the press release said.
The suspect vehicle was quickly found by the Daytona Beach Police Department with a handgun and ammunition inside.
Verdell is believed to have been driving the suspect vehicle, which had three other occupants, and had a gun in his possession at the time
West Granada, Ormond Beach
Trespassing. A 59-year-old man from Dunnellon was trespassed from a local bank after he demanded to receive $50 million from African masks he had allegedly sold.
Police report that the man entered the bank and demanded his money, despite the bank manager telling him there were no transactions on file of such a sum. The man became angry and refused to leave when asked. When police arrived, the man continued to refuse to leave the premises. He was arrested and taken to jail.
NOV. 26 TAG — HE’S IT 11:04 p.m. – 100 block of
of the shooting, the press release said.
During the extensive investigation, BPD officers executed search warrant at a residence in Daytona Beach, interviewed multiple people, and executed multiple search warrants for digital evidence and subpoenas. All those involved in the investigation have been identified and interviewed, the press release said. During his interview with detectives, Verdell admitted to being in the suspect car earlier in the day but said he was home during the shooting. The BPD investigation of Verdell’s Daytona Beach home and additional witness interviews contradicted his statement.
He has been booked into the Volusia jail.
Daytona officer arrested after allegedly hitting girlfriend in face
A Daytona Beach Police Officer was arrested by the Daytona Beach Police Department on domestic battery charges over the weekend.
Cypress Point Parkway, Palm Coast Petit theft, possession. A St. Augustine man was arrested in Palm Coast for driving a truck with a stolen plate.
A Sheriff’s Office deputy was alerted to a possible stolen tag on a red Chrysler van and found the vehicle at a nearby gas station, according to an arrest report. The deputy immediately detained the man who owned the van. Before the deputy could ask the suspect any questions, the man said, “I knew that tag was bad.” The suspect told the deputy he had just bought the tag and van from two separate friends, and was living out of the van.
The man admitted to hav-
Jazmen Renee Harrell, a DBPD officer since August 2022, punched her girlfriend in the face as the girlfriend was trying to leave Harrell’s apartment, according to Harrell’s arrest report. The victim told police officers that Harrell hit her after she threatened to call Harrell’s coworkers at the DBPD.
Harrell has been placed on administrative leave.
“This type of behavior is not representative of the values of the Daytona Beach Police Department, and the officer will be held accountable in accordance with departmental policy and the law,” the press release said.
Neighbors who heard the commotion sheltered the victim until police came. Though the victim declined to press chares, Harrell was arrested.
State debates creating online exchange for health insurance
Amid widespread national debate about making changes in the health-care system, a Florida House panel on Dec.
ing cannabis and meth in the van. Deputies found 0.6 grams of meth, 3 grams of marijuana and one pill of a controlled substance.
The man is facing several charges. He was taken to the county jail.
NOV. 28
DUMPSTER DIVING
DISASTER
1:46 a.m. – 600 block of S.R. 100, Flagler County
False name given to law enforcement. A woman with an active warrant was caught dumpster diving on Thanksgiving behind a dollar store.
2 backed a proposal that would create a state program offering an online exchange for buying individual health insurance. The program would be tied to what are known as “individual coverage health reimbursement arrangements,” which involve workers making coverage choices and getting reimbursed by their employers. The arrangements have tax benefits.
The House Health Care Facilities & Systems Subcommittee on Tuesday voted 12-3 to approve a bill (HB 141) that would create the Florida Employee Health Choices Program, which would include the exchange.
Bill sponsor Taylor Yarkosky, R-Montverde, said the proposal seeks to address high insurance costs and limited choices for businesses and employees. He described it as a “free market bill” and said the state could get out ahead as “massive health care changes are absolutely coming.”
But some lawmakers questioned why a state program is needed when private exchanges exist for such coverage.
A police arrived was called out to the retail location just before 2 a.m. and found an empty SUV parked in front of a fenced-in dumpster area. Two women were found hiding behind the dumpster fence and told the deputy they were dumpster diving. Two additional Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived on scene and searched the area for suspicious items and instead found a third woman hiding in the dumpster area, according to an arrest report. A search for the first two women turned up no results but the third woman initially gave the officers a false name. The woman turned out to have an active warrant for her arrest out of Putnam County and was violating her probation by being out after curfew. She was placed under arrest and taken to the county jail.
‘A Crystal Christmas’
Come Friday, The Casements will be glittering in crystals for its 47th annual Christmas Gala.
The Casements Guild have dedicated the start of this week to preparing John D. Rockefeller’s historic winter home for the annual event, which will begin with a tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5, and include live entertainment
and family activities through 9 p.m. Themed “A Crystal Christmas,” the Guild has decked the house in shades of blue, white and silver this year.
“It’s a huge group effort, and we start planning in January,” Gala Chair Becky Panknin said.
The Guild picks themes two years in advance, always working on the next year’s
gala event as soon as the current one comes to a close.
The free event will continue from noon-5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6-7, as the community is invited to stop by The Casements and tour the house, enjoy holiday entertainment, visit the gift shop, browse through handmade crafts and view the annual tree gallery — featuring 20 Christmas trees decorated by community organizations.
On Sunday, carolers will be at The Casements in period costume.
This year’s gala will also feature a mannequin dressed as Disney’s Elsa for photo opportunities.
I know that’s going to be a big hit for kids,” Guild President Jayde Lyle said.
The event comes together through the work of between 45-50 volunteers. As gala chair, Panknin’s responsibility revolves around organization and making sure tasks are handled and people know where they’re supposed to be, both during
the decorating days, and on the day of the gala.
But, the end result is worth it for the Guild members.
It fills you with pride,” Panknin said. “Look what we did — again.”
Lyle agreed.
Just to change it up every year is spectacular, really,” she said.
–JARLEENE ALMENAS
Pete Gimmi helps decorate the Christmas tree inside The Casements in preparation of the 47th annual Christmas Gala.
Mare Koehnecke, Linda Bonis and Paula McMurray-Schwarz pose with the Elsa mannequin inside The Casements.
The Christmas tree at Rockefeller Gardens will be the centerpiece of the exterior festivities for the 47th annual Christmas Gala event on Friday, Dec. 5. Photos by Jarleene Almenas
The Casements Guild President Jayde Lyle and Gala Chair Becky Panknin.
Patty Ferland and Rachel Hacheky help decorate The Casements.
Margie Sheppard laughs as she works to decorate The Casements’ Christmas tree.
Denny Lee Snyder looks up to the Christmas tree with a smile.
Volusia County Council votes against restoring beach driving from ISB
Restoring beach driving in the section from East
to Seabreeze would require
JARLEENE
ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
In 2000, beach driving in Daytona from International Speedway Boulevard to Seabreeze went away.
Twenty-five years later, it’s not looking like that will change anytime soon.
The County Council voted 5-2 against reinstating beach driving in this section of beach at its meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 2. The discussion was put on the agenda by Volusia County Council Chair Jeff Brower, who has been advocating in favor of this issue since he was elected in 2021, saying reinstating beach driving will help revitalize the Main Street corridor and its businesses.
Brower said the County Council that approved removing beach driving from ISB to Seabreeze did so on a promise that it would bring bigger investments into the corridor. Instead, what happened was small businesses were left to struggle.
“I can’t look at these people and say, ‘You’re not investing in our community, you don’t deserve to have a spot here,’” Brower said. “... You’re the ones that have dug in and are providing good services and fun places for us to come.”
It’s not the first time Brower has brought this discussion before the County Council. It has been one of his key issues since he was elected in 2021.
“There is nothing like the experience of going to this beach and parking your car,
your van or your truck and having your own little section of beachfront property with everything you need to enjoy the day surrounding your vehicle,” Brower said. “That’s what made Daytona Beach the most popular beach in Florida.”
In 1996, the Volusia County Council at the time signed the ordinance to remove beach driving from ISB to Seabreeze, which went into effect four years later, contingent upon the opening of at least 1,000 parking spaces near the beach.
The City of Daytona Beach entered into an agreement with the developer of Ocean Walk Shoppes for the construction of the beachside shopping center, but it would only occur if beach driving was removed in that section. The Ocean Center parking area later opened to the public, offering 1,500 public parking spaces.
Senior Assistant County Attorney Paolo Soria said that, to reinstate beach driving from ISB to Seabreeze, the Legislature would need to file a new bill, as the state’s current law only allows for removal of beach driving sections, not restoration.
Included in the county’s agenda item were five written letters of opposition from property owners, including the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort and the Boardwalk at Daytona investment group, which is working with two developers for a mixed-use project that would include a new hotel and retail.
Representing Boardwalk at Daytona at the council meeting was Cobb Cole attorney Rob Merrell, who said the discussion to reinstate beach driving was bringing hesitation to those involved with the project.
“This has created a chill-
ing effect,” Merrell said. “... Can I say that the project is definitely going to happen as a result of you guys saying no? Of course not. But I can tell you that it will absolutely have an effect if this goes the way it started to go just now.”
One member of the public questioned this stance, saying it would minimize access to the public beach.
“Their message to this council is loud and clear, and frankly, it’s chilling,” said Gabe Wozniak, chairman of the Libertarian Party of Volusia County, who spoke at the meeting. “They’re essentially threatening to withhold investment if you do not maintain a sanitized vehiclefree zone that benefits their
bottom line. ... These entities want the taxpayer-funded government to enforce a restriction on the public so their private developments can enjoy the exclusivity of a private beach atmosphere without paying for the land.”
There was one letter of support, and the county states one other property owner verbally issued his or her support. The letter was written by Joyce Louizes, whose family owns and operates two shops on Main Street.
“I truly believe that the day they stopped it was one of the saddest days in Daytona’s history,” she wrote. “I strongly believe that this will revitalize our area and city and encourage investment and hopefully be more attractive to someone to bring in some amusements on the large portion of the boardwalk that sadly now stands vacant.”
Other property owners, the county reported, didn’t respond. Neither did the City of Daytona Beach.
County Councilman Troy Kent was the only other councilman in favor of reinstating beach driving from ISB to Seabreeze. He said its removal was an “experiment.”
“There are two words to
describe the results of this experiment, and those words to me are ‘epic failure,’” Kent said.
The council is hearing about a “possible investment,” he said, referencing the Boardwalk at Daytona project. But the council should talk about the investments of the struggling Main Street Merchants — and, he added, the hundreds of businesses that have since closed.
“When you shut off access to the beach, you basically make a private beach for the landowners that own that beach,” Kent said.
Councilman David Santiago said he didn’t think reinstating beach driving was the solution to the Main Street merchants’ issues. The answer is economic investment, he said.
“I think there’s other potential opportunities,” he said. “I’m not a hotelier, but I hear from hoteliers that they want to invest more in that community. Hoteliers bring people to the community, which bring people to your shops.”
Santiago said the revitalization of the corridor through reinstating beach driving is a “false hope.”
“Daytona Beach is the economic engine of Volusia
County,” he said. “Investment needs to occur there, and no insult to them — they are stuck in the ’80s. We need to find ways to get investment in here, and we’re hearing from people in the investment world: A solution to this in the vote of a no is a potential moving forward.”
Brower compared Main Street’s heyday to New Smyrna Beach’s Flagler Avenue approach, and councilmen discussed the latter’s popularity. Councilman Danny Robins also brought up Daytona Beach’s infamous Spring Break era, which created public safety issues and disorderly conduct in local hotels.
Councilmen stressed wanting to collaborate with the City of Daytona Beach on what they envision for the future of Main Street. Leaving Brower and Kent on the losing side of the argument.
“OK, so we wait another 30 years and maybe somebody from Atlanta will help us throw our locals under the bus — take their beach away from them,” Brower said. What’s your take on beach driving? Email letters to the editor to jarleene@observerlocalnews.com.
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock/4kclips
Ormond rejects Daytona’s $2.3M offer in Avalon Park water dispute
JARLEENE ALMENAS
EDITOR
MANAGING
The City of Ormond Beach has rejected Daytona’s $2.3 million settlement offer in the ongoing Avalon Park lawsuit.
Following a shade meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 2, the Ormond Beach City Commission voted 4-1 to decline the offer and continue with mediation, with Commissioner Travis Sargent voting against. There was no discussion on the dais by the commissioners about their decision, and the city declined to comment due to the litigation.
In an email to the Observer, Mayor Jason Leslie said the shade meeting went well.
“In my view, it was very similar to meeting individually with staff, as we’ve been doing,” he said. “Although we were limited in what could be discussed, we received a full update on the situation and had the opportunity to ask questions before reconvening the commission meeting and ultimately voting to provide city staff with direction moving forward.”
The shade meeting — which in this case was a meeting held privately between the elected officials and its attorney to discuss the pending litigation — was held a day before the settlement offer was set to expire. Ormond Beach, Daytona Beach and Avalon Park are scheduled to go to court on Wednesday, Dec. 3, for a docket sounding prior to going to trial. Daytona’s settlement offer would have bought out Ormond Beach’s right to provide water and wastewater services at a wholesale rate to Avalon Park, the result of a 2006 lawsuit between the two cities.
In addition to the utility agreement, the 2006 lawsuit also opened the door for Daytona Beach to annex 3,000 acres of land at Ormond Beach’s western border — land that is now slated to become Avalon Park Daytona Beach, a residential development of almost 8,000 homes.
Avalon Park filed a lawsuit against both cities in December 2024, accusing Ormond Beach of refusing or failing to provide utility services for their development, alleging that the city doesn’t have the present ability or capacity to provide water and wastewater services to Avalon Park. The
lawsuit states that the city would need to “incur more than $157 million in expenditures from undetermined sources to build the infrastructure necessary to be able to provide water and wastewater services to Avalon Park Daytona Beach,” and if such funds were available, it would take years for infrastructure to be completed.
Daytona Beach, however, has the “present capacity and willingness” to provide utilities, the lawsuit states.
In a motion to dismiss the lawsuit filed in February on behalf of Ormond, the city’s attorneys argued that Avalon Park had no standing to adjudicate the city’s utility rights, as they are not third party beneficiaries of the service agreement established in 2006. Additionally, the city argued Avalon Park has no enforceable rights in a preliminary plat approval; a final plat approval has not yet been approved by the City of Daytona Beach.
Ormond Beach is arguing that the developer and the City of Daytona Beach are trying to get out of the 2006 service agreement.
“They don’t want to design the system and connect to Ormond because Ormond then will service,” Attorney Abe McKinnon said to the judge during a hearing held May 1. “They don’t want Ormond involved. The developer has their reasons they don’t want Ormond involved, because they’re concerned about future development. And Daytona doesn’t want Ormond involved because that’s a massive income stream that they would like to have for themselves. “
During that hearing, Brent Spain, the attorney representing Avalon Park, said that the developers have tried for the past three years to obtain information from Ormond Beach to finalize their engineering plans and final plat.
But Ormond, Spain said, is refusing to give Avalon Park needed information until they receive a master utility plan for the entire service area.
“We’re being held hostage by the City of Ormond,” Spain said.
Daytona is asking for different connection points, and Spain said Avalon Park cannot finalize its plans, as there is a potential the cities’ util-
ity systems may not be compatible with each other, and therefore engineering plans need to be city-specific.
Seeing as Daytona Beach, though sued also by Avalon Park, has no allegations made against it in the lawsuit, Ormond Beach argues this is a way for Daytona to get out of the 2006 service agreement.
“So the inference that you were making was that Avalon’s the Trojan Horse to get Daytona Beach into court?” asked Judge Dennis Craig.
“That’s exactly what this is, your honor,” McKinnon replied in the May 1 hearing.
“And it’s a misread of the statute.”
While the current commission did not comment on the settlement offer on Dec. 1, and the decision to refuse it, one former Ormond Beach City Commissioner did.
Jeff Boyle was on the commission during the original dispute in the late ’90s and early 2000s with the city of Daytona and ConsolidatedTomoka Land Co., which owned the land now slated for Avalon Park.
Boyle challenged the public claim that Ormond Beach can leverage the size of Avalon Park by withholding water and sewer service.
“No, we do not have that leverage, and the courts will agree,” Boyle said.
He also argued that providing utilities to Avalon Park won’t bring in “enormous future cash profits,” as the city will need to build more infrastructure. The latest lawsuit, he said, has already cost the city $320,000 in legal fees, and, with the commission rejecting Daytona’s settlement offer, Boyle said those figures are likely to double.
“If we provide water and sewer, we’ll be partners with Daytona Beach forever — a city, Daytona Beach, that is intent on paving the planet and flooding the Tomoka River,” Boyle said. “A city we would have to trust to make payments on time. You had a $2.3 million offer on the table tonight to sell the rights, avoid court and extricate Ormond Beach from this hopeless mess. I’m disappointed you rejected the offer and on information the public doesn’t have. We’ve had no input on this.”
Email jarleene@observer localnews.com.
110 W. Rich Ave., DeLand 1845 Holsonback Drive, Daytona Beach 717 W. Canal St., New Smyrna Beach 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona
History of what’s now Palm Coast stretches back to 18th century
A major trade route made its way through the middle of Flagler County in the 1760s.
PRESTON ZEPP
GUEST WRITER
When people hear about history in Florida, most of the time it’s places like St. Augustine that come to mind. Although they would be justified, it was one of the first places settled in North America after all, not many would think of our own backyard, Flagler County, and definitely not where Palm Coast is now.
But, what if I told you that we can document Timucuan activities across the county, that when you drive on Old Kings Road, that you are traveling on a roadway that dates back before the American
Revolution, a sawmill that supplied both St. Augustine and the British Navy was in our northern part, Palm Coast was not the first “city” on the land it calls its borders, cattle once roamed along Palm Coast Parkway, and you can shop for groceries where one of the largest plantations once stood?
And that’s just a small piece of our story. It wasn’t barren land and woods before the subdivisions and golf courses popped up in the late 1960s. It was much more than that, going back to 1768, when the first major trade route made its way down through the middle of our bustling city.
To give you an idea, let’s start with Old Kings Road. It’s old all right, 18th century old.
As the British took over Florida in 1763, it divided it into two separate colonies, 14th (East) and 15th (West). St. Augustine
was made the capital of East Florida because some infrastructure was already there.
But a trade route was needed with Georgia. So, a roadway was built connecting Colraine, Georgia, to St. Augustine. When Dr. Turnbull set up the Smyrna Colony (New Smyrna Beach now), the roadway was extended south to it. It was officially named Kings Road in honor of King George III.
Parts of what we drive on follow that original path. But deep in the woods, we have a section that is exactly on the footprint and looks like it did over 250 years ago — dirt and trees. Kings Road was considered one of the first “highways” in Florida, kind of the I-95 of its day. And we are still using it today.
Preston Zepp is a member of the Flagler County Historical Society.
NEWS BRIEFS
Daytona Beach Symphony Society moves to NewsJournal Center
For the first time in its 74-year history, the Daytona Beach Symphony Society will present its upcoming 2025-2026 concert season at a new venue: the News-Journal Center in Downtown Daytona Beach.
“The excitement building in Downtown Daytona Beach makes this the perfect moment to bring world-class symphonic music into the heart of the city,” said Mark Francis, DBSS executive director in a press release.
“We are thrilled to welcome renowned orchestras from across the country to a venue that matches the caliber of their performances.”
Previously, DBSS concerts were held at the Peabody Auditorium on the beachside.
The 2025-2026 concert season opens on Thursday, Dec. 11, with selections from Handel’s Messiah, performed by the Jacksonville Symphony under the direction of Courtney Lewis.
The season will also feature:
Jan. 8 — “John Williams
Salutes America” a concert
celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S., performed by the Jacksonville Symphony Jan. 30 — “Carmen” by Georges Bizet, performed by Teatro Lirico D’Europa Feb. 26 — The Manhattan Chamber Players, whose concert includes Dvorak’s “Serenade for Strings” and Tchaikovsky’s “Serenade for Strings.”
March 27 — The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by JoAnn Falleta. The concert will include Bruch’s “Scottish Fantasy,” performed by world-renowned violinist Simone Porter, and Brahms’ First Symphony.
For tickets and subscriptions, visit DBSS.org or call 386-253-2901.
Volusia schools selected for drone pilot program for school safety
Volusia County Schools has been selected as one of three school districts in Florida to participate in a school safety pilot program utilizing drones.
An initiative funded by $557,000 by the Florida Legislature, the pilot program with Texas-based company Campus Guardian Angel is aimed at protecting students and staff during active shooter situations. According to a press release by VCS, the
system deploys non-lethal drones within seconds of an emergency alert and provides real-time video to law enforcement.
It also uses deterrents like sirens, flashing lights and pepper spray pellets to disorient a potential active shooter. The district states the drones will be stored onsite and have the ability to reach any point on campus as fast as 15 seconds.
“There is no more important mission than the safety and security of our schools, and the Volusia Sheriff’s Office and Volusia County Schools are eager to work with the state of Florida and Campus Guardian Angel to lead the charge in exploring new tools to protect our students, faculty, and staff,” Sheriff Mike Chitwood said in the press release.
The pilot program will begin implementation in early 2026.
“Being selected for this pilot program is an incredible honor, and we are grateful for the opportunity to lead the way in using cutting-edge technology to safeguard our students and staff,” Superintendent Dr. Balgobin said. “This initiative reflects our commitment to proactive security measures and to ensuring that our schools remain places of learning, not fear.”
Old Kings Road originally connected St. Augustine to Colraine, Georgia, and then was extended through what is now Palm Coast south to the Smyrna Colony in 1768. Courtesy photo
The News-Journal Center. File photo by Jarleene Almenas
The Campus Guardian Angel system will deploy drones to help with student and staff safety during an active shooter situation. Photo courtesy of Volusia County Schools
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5,000 toys received from Flagler, Volusia Margarita Balls for local kids
The Flagler County ball, limited to 200 guests, brought in 800 toys while the Volusia County ball received 4,130 toys from its attendees.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Almost 5,000 toys will be delivered to children in need in Flagler and Volusia Counties after the 2025 Flagler and Volusia Margarita Balls.
The balls, organized by each county’s Margarita Society, is an invite-only event funded and organized by the Societies’ directors. Each director is given a certain number of invitations, said Cindy Evans, a director on both the Flagler and Volusia County Margarita Society boards.
“Basically, every invitation is for two people, so we expect at least $200 worth of toys from an invitation,” Evans said. “The point is that for every invitation, we want double the toys. But the more the merrier.”
Typically, Evans said, guests end up bringing more than just the two required toys.
The ninth annual Margarita Ball in Flagler County was held at Channel Side on Nov. 7. Limited by its 200-person capacity for the event, the ball still raised over 800 toys for Flagler families. In Volusia, the ball was held on Nov. 22 and brought in 4,130 toys, more than in the previous year.
“A lot of people bring multitudes [of toys],” she said.
“Big, big, big bags of toys.”
Local nonprofits received the toy donations to deliver to children and families who need them.
Evans founded the Fla -
gler County Margarita Ball almost 10 years ago but has been a director of the Volusia County Margarita Society for over 30 years, since she married her husband Jeff Evans,
a co-founder of the Volusia Margarita Society.
The Flagler ball has 20 directors. In Volusia, the event is held at the Ocean Center; each of the 25 directors had 40 invitations, for a total potential of 2,000 guests. Comparatively, in 1988, at the Volusia Margarita Ball’s inaugural event, there were a few hundred attendees.
“But again, it’s a controlled thing, because we aren’t collecting money,” Evans said.
“It’s just us paying for the party, putting the party on, asking our attendees to bring toys.”
According to the Margarita Society of Volusia County’s website, their efforts have
“furnished over 100,000 gifts to needy children throughout Central Florida.”
Below are the recipient nonprofits and organizations for each Margarita Ball:
In Flagler County: A Christmas to Remember; Early Learning Coalition of Flagler County; Flagler Cares; Flagler County Schools; Families in Transition; Flagler County Housing Authority; Loads of Smiles Flagler; I Just Want to Say Women’s Group.
In Volusia County: Beachside Elementary; Central Daytona Beach PAL; Children’s Home Society of Florida; Community Partnership for Children; Early Learning Coalition of Flagler and
Volusia; FBH Community; FUTURES Foundation/Take Stock in Children; Florida Guardian ad Litem Foundation; Jewish Federation of Volusia & Flagler Counties; Kidds Are First Inc.; Loads of Smiles LLC; McInnis Elementary; Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church; Neighbor
To
Family, Inc.; Operation Changing Lives; Ormond Beach Police Athletic League; Pace Center for Girls, Inc.; Residing Hope (Aka Florida United Methodist Children’s Home); Salty Family Services; The Childhood Cancer Foundation Inc.; Volusia Sheriff’s Youth Foundation.
The Margarita Society of Volusia County directors at the 2025 Margarita Ball.
Toys raised by the Flagler Margarita Ball.
The Margarita Ball of Volusia County raised 4,130 toys for local children.
The Margarita Society of Flagler County directors at the 2025 Margarita Ball. Photo courtesy of Cindy Evans
Museum of Art & Sciences to become ‘crown jewel’ named ‘The Brown’
‘We’re going to put this place on the map like no one’s ever seen before,’ said Andy Watts, chairman of the MOAS Board.
SIERRA WILLIAMS
STAFF WRITER
The Daytona Beach Museum of Arts and Sciences is stepping into a new era: It is now “The Brown: The Cici & Hyatt Brown Museum of Art, Science & History.”
The change is not just about the name, which honors the museum’s longtime benefactors Cici and Hyatt Brown. The transition signifies the museum is stepping onto a new stage, one with a lofty vision of becoming the “crown jewel” and cultural heart of Volusia County.
Andy Watts, chairman of the MOAS Board of Trustees, said the vision is to create a “premier museum” not just in Volusia County, but in the Southeast of the United States.
“We’re going to put this place on the map like no one’s ever seen before,” he said.
THE BROWN The museum announced the name change and the launch of its “Crown Jewel Campaign” at a private event on Dec. 1, held at the Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art, showcasing the new building’s preliminary design and features. Details about the Crown Jewel Campaign and the vision for The Brown can be found at www.moasfuture.
org.
The new building — two stories and around 60,000 square feet in size — will be
visible from Nova Road on the 60 acres owned by MOAS at 352 S. Nova Road. A large, 60-foot sphere in the center of the building will be the museum’s new, state-of-theart planetarium. Watts directly referenced other iconic museums like The Guggenheim in New York City and The Perez in Miami, Florida. He said The Brown will be designed to have interests for everyone in the community, as well as something that could be a destination for visitors.
“We strive to be a cornerstone of our communities where all minds are expanded and spirits are sparked, creating deeper connections to the world using the nexus of art, science and history,” Watts
said. “That is the vision that we set up for this organization.”
The new museum will leverage the MOAS’ current collections and utilize the 60-acre property for education as well. The current Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art Building will be married to the future museum building under one roof.
The Brown will have a cafe, permanent collection galleries and experiences, an adaptive, multi-sensory, experimental performance hall, a rotating special exhibition gallery and a redesigned sustainable environmental education path along Tuscawilla Preserve that connects to an education pavilion.
The existing MOAS building will be repurposed for mitigation purposes as part of the overall site plan.
MOAS CEO Tabitha Schmidt said The Brown will be more innovative, accessible, relevant and integrated.
“When we construct this we will no longer be a hidden gem, but a crown jewel,” she said.
$150M ENDOWMENT
Cici and Hyatt Brown have committed to a $150 million
endowment for the museum’s future, leaving just $25 million to be raised by the community.
The couple have already contributed $75 million. The other $75 million will come as a 3-for-1 match: for every $1 contributed by the community, the Browns will donate another $3, to cap at the $25 million community contribution.
Combined, that is a $175 million investment. And the Browns have taken their commitment once step further: Hyatt Brown announced that should he and Cici predecease the completion of The Brown or the fundraising efforts, they have entered into a contract that obligates their estate, foundation and children into honoring the $150 million contribution.
“That money is 100%
good,” he said.
The Browns first announced their $150 million endowment and 3-for-1 match in 2024. The couple has been supporting the museum since 1972, when Cici Brown began volunteering at MOAS. They donated millions of dollars to the creation of their namesake Museum of Art, and have donated hundreds of paintings to it that feature historic, natural Florida landscapes, among other subjects.
Cici Brown said museums can’t survive today without endowments, as in recent years the federal and state funding for them have been repeatedly cut back.
“The endowment is more important than it ever used to be,” she said.
The current MOAS building will close on March 29,
2026, with the final dates of its current Dinosaur exhibition. From there, staff will begin the arduous process of carefully packing up all the displays, art and galleries.
Building The Brown will take two to three years, Hyatt Brown said. In the meantime, the museum will continue to serve the community through a variety of programs. The museum has planned for a mobile museum program called Framing the Future, among other community initiatives for people to enjoy. Hyatt Brown said the community only has one shot to get this right.
“This museum is in a position to become iconic,” Hyatt Brown said. “This is going to be — and is — part of the soul of Volusia County.”
A rendering of the future Brown museum building. Courtesy of MOAS
Andy Watts, the 2026 chair person for the Museum of Art and Sciences Board of Trustees.
Photo by Sierra Williams
Cici and Hyatt Brown. Photo by Stephen Holvik/Lunar Studio
MY VIEW ISABELLA HERRERA
Flagler County is developing to its own demise. Here’s why.
Development is inevitable, but conservation is crucial.
Counties across the state of Florida are experiencing record-breaking heat and severe weather events. At the same time, our beloved sunshine state is seeing unprecedented population growth and urban development — and, consequently, unprecedented deforestation and ecosystem destruction. With people pouring into Florida from across the United States and acres of forests cleared to make way for new construction, our communities’ first line of defense against natural disasters — our ecosystems — have seen a rapid decline.
Flagler County shares the same challenges faced by our neighboring communities, experiencing sweltering summers and flooding following recent hurricanes and severe storms. Even still, we’ve seen an uptick of construction in recent years and widespread destruction of our local ecosystems as a result. Just between the years 2017 and 2021, North Central Florida lost over 34,768 acres of tree cover. The City of Palm Coast lost the most of any municipality during that time period — over 3,155 acres.
Floodwaters that used to recede into wetlands and pine flatwoods are now met with yet another single family home development or a shopping plaza ladened with concrete. Decades-old oak trees and once pristine wetlands — all critical to our community’s air quality and wellbeing — decimated for more storage unit facilities, car washes, and parking lots devoid of trees.
Flagler County is uniquely positioned to invest in our existing community by choosing to develop responsibly, conservatively, and sustainably. Development is inevitable, but conservation is crucial and necessary.
WEATHER WORSENS
Extreme weather events are expensive — and increasing in frequency. Since 1980, the United States has experi-
enced over 403 environmental disasters that have exceeded $1 billion in damage costs, surmounting $2.915 trillion dollars. These costly occurrences are increasing in frequency; in 2024 alone, Florida had 11 extreme weather events that cost over $135.2 billion in damages. Since the 1980s, extreme weather events have cost our state nearly $370 billion, the second highest cumulativedamage costs in the entire country. The Southeastern United States has seen an increase in tornado activity in recent years, and less forest cover means more exposure to the impacts of severe weather events for residents across the county.
The costs of extreme weather events, as well as our communities’ vulnerability to them, will continue to increase. Environmental disasters can cause significant damages to a region’s infrastructure and economy long after they’ve occurred. It’s not if a disaster is going to strike — it’s when.
ECOSYSTEM SERVICES
Ecosystems are our community’s greatest defense against extreme weather and our greatest advantage in progressing as a healthy and resilient community. An ecosystem consists of all of the living organisms, as well as the physical and chemical components (such as the weather, the atmosphere, and the landscape) interacting within a geographic area.
Flagler County is home to a diverse array of ecosystems that provide “benefits,” known as ecosystem services,
including flood and storm protection, erosion control, and freshwater filtration. Our forests, full of towering oaks, pines, and sprawling palms, play a significant role in regulating temperature and air quality, providing shading and cooling to our neighborhoods and roadways. Wetlands and mangroves mitigate flood impacts, protect against storm surge, and help maintain water quality across the region. Sea dunes protect our shorelines from rough surf and erosion — more effectively than any sea wall— and provide habitat and nesting grounds for threatened and endangered species, such as gopher tortoises and sea turtles.
The clearing of these ecosystems for new construction directly impacts our health, our infrastructure, and our ability to bounce back after severe weather events.
Preserving ecosystems and maintaining green spaces within a community not only protects existing developments, but actually increases their property values. The protection of endangered species — and by extension, their habitats —actually leads to an appreciation in property values in proximity to the protected ecosystems.
Flagler County is uniquely positioned to invest in our existing community by choosing to develop responsibly, conservatively, and sustainably. The deforestation and urbanization we’re witnessing across Flagler County has resounding impacts — locally, regionally, and nationally. With the filling of wetlands
and disruptions of naturally occurring stormwater flows, we’re going to be seeing more frequent flooding events locally, even outside of hurricane season. Following Hurricanes Milton and Helene in 2024, neighborhoods in Palm Coast, Bunnell, and Flagler Beach experienced unprecedented flooding after acres of wetlands and forests that had historically absorbed floodwaters have now been filled to support new neighborhoods and shopping plazas.
A HOTTER PLANET
A reduction of green spaces and increased development also means we’ll be seeing increasing temperatures. Land-use changes as a result of population growth — deforestation, industrialization, and urbanization — have a major influence on temperatures locally and regionally. Heat can have significant impacts on both human-made systems and the natural environment: straining a community’s infrastructure, exacerbating existing health issues, and disrupting local economies. Shade provided by trees significantly lower the temperatures of an area — anyone that’s walked through a parking lot barren of trees this past summer can imagine the relief that the shade of just a single tree could provide. While other counties across Florida are scrambling to remedy their poor development choices of the past (clear-cutting and building in flood zones, for example), Flagler County is in a unique position to be proactive in preparing for future natural
disasters, centering conservation in all development decisions, and prioritizing our ecosystems not only for the people of the present, but for the generations of the future.
In the last decade, we’ve seen a slew of private companies capitalizing off our community’s remaining green spaces. KB Home, which states that its “sustainability is built on one essential idea: balance,” generated a $7 billion in revenue for 2024 after developing 106 new communities across the United States. KB Home now has four developments in Flagler County, in addition to its 16 communities in the Jacksonville/St. Augustine area and 34 in the Orlando area.
Sunbelt Land Management, the company behind the Veranda Bay Development along John Anderson Highway, has cleared multiple acres of trees and wetlands in Flagler County, removing the benefits of the mangroves.
Apartment complexes and subdivisions often use words like “preserve” and “reserve” but then build on gopher tortoise habitats and wetlands.
The City of Bunnell recently followed neighboring cities’ Palm Coast and Flagler Beach’s suit and approved a 6,100-home development — The Reserve at Haw Creek — across nearly 2,788 acres in west Flagler County. Despite frequent flooding already burdening Bunnell residents and concerns over arsenic contamination at the two confirmed Cow Dipping
Scott A. Selis, Esq.
Estate
and that’s where
often go tragically (and sometimes hilariously) off course. Here are the top five estate planning mistakes regular folks make.
1. Not Having a Plan Let’s start with the classic: doing nothing. Some people treat estate planning like cleaning the garage — it’s always on the list but never actually happens. The problem? If you don’t make a plan, the state makes one for you. And trust me, the government is terrible at guessing who gets Grandma’s emerald brooch.
2. Naming the Wrong Beneficiaries
People assume once they fill out that beneficiary form, it’s good forever. But things change — marriages end, new kids arrive, siblings go rogue. If your ex life partner is listed as a beneficiary, she or he might get a very unexpected windfall.
3. DIY Legal Documents
Yes, you could use an online form generator or copy your cousin’s will from 1998. You could also cut your own hair or fix your car’s brakes with duct tape. That doesn’t mean you should. Estate law is full of quirks, and one wrong word can send your entire plan straight to probate court — where nothing is fast, fun, or free.
4. Forgetting to Fund the Trust
Creating a living trust is great, but forgetting to put assets into it is like buying a safe and leaving your jewelry on the kitchen counter. A trust without assets is just a fancy stack of paper — and a missed opportunity.
5. Not Planning for Disability
Estate planning isn’t just about death (cheery, right?). It’s also about who manages your finances or makes medical decisions if you’re incapacitated. Without powers of attorney or advance directives, your loved ones could end up in court while you’re stuck in a hospital bed, unaware and unrepresented.
Bottom Line: Estate planning doesn’t have to be scary — but ignoring it won’t make it go away. Do your family a favor: create an estate plan!
Wetlands are filled for a new residential development in Flagler County. Photos by Isabella Herrera
The clearing and filling of wetlands in Flagler County.
What the state — and you — can do about development
Vat sites on the property, the Reserve at Haw Creek development is moving along. How are we sure local residents or any soil and groundwater don’t have arsenic or other contaminants?
THE STATE’S ROLE
While the impacts of irresponsible development and growth are felt locally, these issues cascade from the state level. One major factor contributing to this issue is the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) currently being run by developers — a conflict of interest. The seven FWC Commissioners, appointed by the Florida Governor and confirmed by the Florida Senate, are responsible for “managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.” However, all seven of these political appointees have ties to real estate and commercial development, and little to no expertise in natural resource management or environmental science.
You may recall the proposed plan to build golf courses and hotels in Florida state parks from earlier this year — we can, in part, thank former FWC Commissioner Gary Nicklaus for that controversy, though he’s since resigned and has been replaced by another individual with ties to development. We can also thank the current FWC Commission for approving the first black bear hunt in over a decade, despite insufficient scientific evidence or current research about Florida bear populations and overwhelming opposition from the majority of Floridians.
YOUR TOWN
Christmas with Community Heroes: shopping trip for 100 kids
The 17th annual Christmas with Community Heroes shopping event is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Palm Coast Walmart.
The event was founded by Larry Jones in 2008. This year, the event is supporting 100 local children, ages 4-12, whose families are facing hardships this holiday season. The children have been recommended by Flagler Schools guidance counselors. Each child receives $150 to shop for gifts at Walmart and is paired with a “Community Hero” who walks beside them, helping them select items, stay on budget and, most importantly, feel seen, supported and celebrated.
The Community Heroes may include first responders, nurses, teachers, medical professionals, veterans, local business owners, volunteers, community leaders, elected officials or neighbors who want to give back.
Here’s how to help:
Make donations to Christmas with Community Heroes and mail check to CWCH, P.O. Box 1954, Bunnell, FL 32110 or via PayPal at @cwchflagler.
Volunteer to help shop or wrap gifts by sending an email to cwchflagler@gmail.com.
Santa is coming to Bunnell neighborhoods on Dec. 5 and Dec. 13
Santa Claus is coming to visit the neighborhoods of Bunnell on two nights in December.
On Friday, Dec. 5, he will drive through the neighborhoods south of East Moody Boulevard, including Pine Forest, Old Haw Creek and Deen
A proposed amendment aims to reform the FWC Commission to encompass a variety of local and regional expertise to ensure representation for farmers, hunters and anglers, and conservationists — not just private developers and real estate interests. You can learn more about the growing movement to demand greater transparency, scientific integrity, and public accountability within the FWC Commission at https://reformfwc.org.
In response to public outcry this past year, Florida’s 175 state parks are now protected from future developments. However, a recent bill introduced by Flagler County’s U.S. Rep., Randy Fine, seeks to establish 2,800 square miles of land in Florida, including our own Princess Place Preserve, as part of the National Parks system — and this bill has the potential to do more harm
Road, accompanied by the Bunnell Police Department. On Saturday, Dec. 13, he will drive through the neighborhoods north of East Moody Boulevard, including Grand Reserve and Palm Terrace Mobile Home Park. Santa will start each journey at the Bunnell Police Department at 4:30 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be at Bunnell Christmas 2025 on Friday, Dec. 12. The free event will run 5-9 p.m. at JB King Park, 300 Citrus St. It will include a carnival area, Florida snow, an obstacle course, Christmas characters, free s’mores, a Christmas passport game, holiday activities and music.
Breakfast with Santa at Matanzas High cafeteria: Dec. 13.
Meet Santa and the Grinch at Breakfast with Santa, 8-11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 at the Matanzas High School cafeteria. Cost is $5 per person. Event includes photo booth with free print-outs, raffle baskets, cookie decorating, face painting, arts and crafts, games and music. For more information, email breakfastwithsanta2@gmail.com.
Ormond DAR to honor veterans for Wreaths Across America
The Capt. James Ormond Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution will host the 10th annual Wreaths Across America ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 13. The ceremony, which honors deceased veterans of all service branches, will be held at 9 a.m. at the Hillside Cemetery at 143 Seton Trail in Ormond Beach. The local DAR chapter is aiming to honor all 250 veteran graves with a live balsam wreath. To help sponsor a wreath, visit
than good if passed. A major concern is that at this time, federally managed lands do not have the same level of protection as achieved by the recent Florida state parks bill, and could lead to future development decisions being made by the federal government, overriding local and state decision makers.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
It’s time to advocate for responsible, sensible, and conservative growth in our local communities by attending a meeting. Voice your concern about how the county is being developed with local leadership
The Flagler County Planning and Development Board meets on the second Tuesday of each month.
You can check the schedule for Palm Coast’s City Council meetings at: https://www. palmcoast.gov/agendas/
www.wreathsacrossamerica. org/FL0645. Want to volunteer to lay them or attend the ceremony? The DAR asks you arrive by 8:45 a.m. The ceremony will take place at the flagpole in the center of the cemetery.
Arc of Volusia’s ornament fundraiser supports new van
The Arc of Volusia has launched a community ornament fundraiser to help purchase a 15-passenger van for the individuals with disabilities in the nonprofit’s programs.
“Many of the people we serve rely on us every single day for safe transportation to medical appointments, activities, and meaningful experiences throughout Volusia County,” an email to the Observer stated. “This new van will directly improve their access to the community and enhance their quality of life.”
The van, according to the fundraiser page, will help with transportation for day trips to places like the Sanford Zoo, Dave & Buster’s, the Museum of Arts and Sciences and for activities such as bowling, swimming and dining out.
The Arc Of Volusia was established in 1961 and serves people with intellectual and/ or developmental disabilities. It provides an adult day training program and supports adults with supported employment.
The ornaments cost $10 for one or three for $25. The Arc of Volusia has a $10,000 fundraising goal.
Ornaments for the fundraiser can be purchased from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday at The Arc of Volusia’s front office. They can also be purchased online at https://givebutter.com/ CuAyXx.
Send Your Town stories to brent@observerlocalnews. com.
meetings/city-council/2025
You can check the schedule for Bunnell’s City Council meetings at: https://www. bunnellcity.us/node/470/ agenda/2025.
You can check the City of Flagler Beach’s Commission meeting schedule at: https:// www.cityofflaglerbeach. com/calendar.aspx?CID=25
Supporting land acquisition efforts;
Applications to the Flagler County Land Acquisition Committee can be sent in at any time, and are found on Page 50 of the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Acquisition Manual;
Applications for new Florida Forever projects are accepted two times a fiscal year, Oct. 15 and April 15;
Contacting your elected representatives;
Flagler County’s represen-
tative is Randy Fine. You can email him or call his Washington, D.C., office at: 202225-2706. His communications director can be reached at: esteban.elizondo@mail. house.gov.
Not a resident of Flagler County? Find your representative at https://www.house. gov/representatives/findyour-representative. We need to prioritize the conservation of our remaining ecosystems in all future development decisions. The clear cutting of acres of forest and destruction of critical wetland habitat must come to an end. Development is inevitable, but conservation is crucial and necessary.
Isabella Herrera is a lifelong resident of Flagler County. A graduate of Matanzas High School, Herrera achieved her bachelor’s degree in sustain-
A comparison of a local development before and after construction. The photo on the right (taken in 2024) shows a manmade beach where mangroves have been removed. As of August 2025, the beach has been expanded, and more mangroves at other lots have been removed. Photo by Isabella Herrera
Hit the road
The event is held every year by the Volusia Region Antique Automobile Club of America.
The 67th annual Gaslight Parade was held at The Casements on Friday, Nov. 28. The event by the Volusia Region Antique Automobile Club of America showcased a wide range of vehicles from the year 2000 and earlier. Before the parade began its journey from East Granada Boulevard to Harvard Drive, spectators had the opportunity to view the lineup of cars parked at The Casements. The event also held an antique car show on Saturday, Nov. 29. –SYDNEY TEVIN
People show off their cars during the 67th annual Gaslight Parade on East Granada. Photos by Sydney Tevin
THURSDAY, DEC. 4
DSC PRESENTS ‘OUR GIFT TO THE COMMUNITY’ HOLIDAY SHOWCASE
When: 7 p.m.
Where: News-Journal Center, 221 N. Beach St., Daytona Beach
Details: See the Daytona Beach Symphonic Band perform holiday favorites. Free.
FRIDAY, DEC. 5
HOLIDAY SALE
When: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 5; and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6
Where: Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Ormond Beach, 56 N. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach
Details: Browse through this annual holiday sale featuring ornaments, décor, jewelry, gifts, crafts and more. Proceeds benefit outreach programs serving the homeless population. Visit uuormond.info.
MOONRISE AT THE BEACH
When: 4:45-5:30 p.m.
Where: Gamble Rogers Memorial State Park, 3100 S Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler
Beach
Details: Learn facts about the moon and watch it rise. Bring binoculars and a camera for photo opportunities. Meet at the beachside pavilion. Park entry fee applies.
THE CASEMENTS 47TH
ANNUAL CHRISTMAS GALA
When: 5-9 p.m. Friday, Dec.
5; 12-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6-7
Where: The Casements, 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach
Details: Celebrate the start of the holiday season with the annual tree lighting in Rockefeller Gardens at 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5. There will e live entertainment, food trucks, train rides, handmade crafts, a tree gallery and more.
FREE FAMILY ART NIGHT
When: 5:30-7 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Bring your family for a fun art project. All art supplies are provided. No art experience needed. All ages are welcome. Free program.
PAR-TEE AFTER DARK
When: 6-9 p.m.
Where: Palm Harbor Golf Club, 20 Palm Harbor Drive, Palm Coast
Details: Join the city of Palm Coast for a family-friendly glow-in-the-dark golf experience. Registration is available at ParksandRec.fun. The cost is $30 dollars for individuals or $100 for teams of four. Each golfer receives a commemorative glow-in-the-dark golf ball. A total of 84 spots are open, with tee times assigned upon registration.
CMTW PRESENTS
‘FROZEN JR.’
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5; 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6; and 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7
Where: Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center, 399 N. U.S. 1, Ormond Beach
Details: Children’s Musical Theatre Workshop is celebrating their 44th year, and their fall show is Disney’s “Frozen Jr.,” based on the 2018 Broadway musical. Tickets cost $15. Children 3 and under free with a paid ticket. Visit ormondbeachperformingartscenter. csstix.com.
SATURDAY, DEC. 6
ANNUAL CRAFT AND BAKE
SALE
When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: St. Mark by the Sea Lutheran Church, 303 Palm Coast Parkway, NE, Palm Coast
Details: Hosted by the Women of St. Mark, this sale supports local, state, and national nonprofits. There will be a variety of handmade items for sale including quilts, stained glass, diamond paintings, table runners, baked goods and more. Cash and credit cards accepted.
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA When: 8-10 a.m.
Where: Captain’s BBQ, 5862
N. Oceanshore Blvd., Palm Coast
Details: The Seawolf Privateers will host a breakfast with Santa. All sales will go toward toys and gifts for local foster and displaced children this holiday. Tickets cost $10 for adults; $6 for children under 12. Visit seawolfprivateers.org/ fundraisers.
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.
NATURAL BEAUTY NATIVE PLANT PRESENTATION
When: 10 a.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Environmental Discovery Center, 601 Division Ave., Ormond Beach
Details: Receive an intro to native shrubs and browse through plants for sale. Hosted by the EDC.
HOLIDAY AT THE BEACH PARADE
When: 1-2 p.m.
Where: A1A, North 6th Street to South 6th Street Flagler
Beach
Details: Head to Flagler Beach to watch a community parade with festive floats, marching bands, classic cars, first responders and more. Hosted by the Rotary Club of Flagler beach and the City of Flagler Beach.
DAYTONA PLAYHOUSE TRAVELING TROUPE
When: 2 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach
Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach
Details: Enjoy a holiday performance of “The Christmas Show,” an episode from “My Friend Irma,” by the Daytona Playhouse Traveling Troupe.
NATURE JOURNALING: DEER
When: 2-3:30 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Environmental Discovery Center, 601 Division Ave., Ormond
Beach
Details: This is a beginnerfriendly adult learning program that includes a presentation about deer, plus drawing and writing activities. The EDC recommends you bring your own journal, but all materials will be provided.
ORMOND ART WALK When: 3-7 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach
MainStreet Arts District, 128 W. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Join 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.
STARLIGHT PARADE When: 4-9 p.m.
Where: Central Park at Town Center, 975 Central Ave., Palm Coast
Details: Watch the Starlight Parade light up Central Park with holiday floats, marching band and Christmas spirit. The pre-parade event starts at 4 p.m. with food vendors and entertainment. The parade will start at 6 p.m.
HEAVEN AND NATURE SING When: 4-6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6 and Sunday, Dec. 7
Where: Central Baptist Church, 152 Fairview Ave., Daytona Beach (Dec. 6); and St. James Episcopal Church, 44 S. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach (Dec. 7)
Details: The Bel Canto Singers of Daytona Beach will perform Christmas standards and melodies, along with solos. Tickets cost $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Visit belcantodaytona.org.
THE LOCALS MIX 2025 MUSIC +ARTS EXPO When: 5-9 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Attend this celebration of creativity. There will be an original music competition, live painting, food trucks, drinks and artisan vendors. No cover to explore the museum, gardens and vendor village. Rooftop music admission is $10 in advance or $15 at the door. Visit thelocalsmix. com.
JINGLE & JAMMIES
SLUMBER PARTY
When: 7 p.m. to midnight
Where: Palm Coast Lanes, 11 Old Kings Road N., Palm Coast
Details: Sip & Bowl and Live Like Cameron are teaming up for a slumber party with Santa. Dance to your favorite sing-alongs, party hits and Christmas classics with DJ Big Mike Brown. Palm Coast Lanes is also a toy drive dropoff location.
SUNDAY, DEC. 7
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS PANCAKE BREAKFAST
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Where: Social Hall at St. Brendan Catholic Church, 1000 Ocean Shore Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: The Father Eamonn Gill Council 13018 Knights of Columbus will serve their famous pancake breakfast. The meal includes all the pancakes you can eat, scrambled eggs, a sausage link, orange juice and endless coffee. Costs $6 for adults; children under 12 eat free. All are welcome.
STREAM: MATH WITH NO-
SEW FAMILY BEANIES
When: Noon
Where: Ormond Beach
Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach
Details: Families and teens will practice measurement skills and learn how to make a fleece beanie without sewing. This program is open to ages 8 and up. Registration is required. Call 386-676-4191.
BACC VINTAGE CAR
DISPLAY
When: 12-4 PM
Where: Teddy Morse’s Daytona Harley-Davidson Pavilion,1637 N. U.S. 1, Ormond
Beach
Details: There will be HD car picks, a 50/50 raffle benefiting Toys For Tots, live music by Fuse, a food truck and a Good Humor truck selling ice cream. Unwrapped toy for Toys For Tots are appreciated. Free show.
CHRISTMAS MUSIC
PROGRAM
When: 3 p.m.
Where: Lighthouse Christ
Presbyterian Church, 1035 W. Granada Blvd. Ormond Beach
Details: The public is invited to attend this program, to include music by the Sanctuary Choir, the JuBellation Handbell choir, special soloists and duets. There will also be a Christmas carol sing-along and an audience participation version of the 12 days of Christmas. Following the program, there will be a cookie and hot chocolate reception.
A KINDA WACKY
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
When: 3:30-5:30 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Presbyterian Church, 105 Amsden Road, Ormond Beach
Detals: The Daytona Beach Choral Society will perform this silly concert featuring songs about ugly sweaters, funny family dynamics and phone-focused gatherings. There will also be a carol singalong to close the concert. Holiday attire encouraged. A free reception with refreshments, karaoke and a photo booth will follow.
HANDEL’S ‘MESSIAH’
When: 4 p.m.
Where: Palm Coast United Methodist Church, 6500 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast
Details: See the Christmas portion of Handel’s “Messiah” performed live with the Hallelujah Chorus, accompanied by the Chamber Players of Palm Coast.
Chris Hazlett, a 20year commercial fisherman, bought the business 18 months ago
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
For almost a decade, A1A Fisheries has been quietly serving up fresh seafood to Hammock residents while supporting local fishermen.
Chris Hazlett has only owned A1A Fisheries for the last 18 months. He purchased the shop from the previous owner, local Bill O’Neill, in July 2024, after working for O’Neill in the shop since September 2023.
As a retail fishmonger, A1A Fisheries has a little bit of everything, Hazlett said, from crab and salmon to grouper and other local fish. A crowd favorite is the smoked salmon — which, he said, is brined and smoked in-house — and the fresh local fish is caught by either local fishermen or Hazlett. Some varieties, like the salmon and halibut, A1A Fisheries purchases from out of state.
Around 90% their stock is supplied by locals, he said, and can vary by the season. Going into the winter months,
as an example, Hazlett said he expects to have a more generous supply of fish like sheepshead, a white fish with a mild taste.
He may be the new owner of A1A Fisheries, but Hazlett has been working with fish for most of his life. For the last 10 years, Hazlett has run a charter boat business in Jacksonville, and, for the last 20 years, he’s also run a commercial fishing business. He’s sold fish to O’Neill at A1A Fisheries for years, he said.
One day, during a winterlull in charters, Hazlett said O’Neill asked him to come work at A1A Fisheries.
“Then it just kind of spiraled, and he wanted to sell it,” Hazlett said. “And I was like, ‘Well, alright, I guess I can stop chartering and start cutting fish.’”
Hazlett comes by his passion for the ocean and fishing from his father. A school teacher by trade, Hazlett’s father would go out on commercial fishing trips on weekends and during the summer.
Hazlett’s father taught himhow to commercial fish and spear fish.
Commercial fishing trips can last for days, he said. Following their return to land, the fishermen bring him their catch.
“Everything that we have is fresh cut that day. You can’t get that at any of your big stores.”
CHRIS HAZLETT
“It’s caught right out of St. Augustine or Ponce Inlet,” he said. Some fishermen go as far as 50-80 miles out to sea for a catch.
Because he knows the job personally, Hazlett said he enjoys being in a position to help his fellow fisherman.
“They don’t get paid enough in the first place,” Hazlett said. “They should get paid way more. If everybody knew what they went through to get their fish, then it’d be a lot different.”
The Hammock community has shown Hazlett support, purchasing their fish from him instead of the box stores. It’s worth the difference in price to know the fish is fresh, he said.
“You don’t know where most of that stuff [in box stores] is coming from,” he said. “Our prices might be a little bit higher for your groupers and snappers and stuff, but everything that we have is fresh cut that day. You can’t get that at any of your big stores.”
A1A Fisheries has everything from crab and salmon to grouper and other local fish. Courtesy photo
Panda Express and Bojangles to open soon on LPGA in Daytona Beach
Panda Express, located near the Tanger Outlets, is awaiting final paperwork from the city.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
A new Panda Express could be opening soon in Daytona Beach on LPGA Boulevard near North Clyde Morris Boulevard in a matter of weeks.
The 2,700-square-foot restaurant is located at 1950 LPGA Blvd. and will have a two-lane drive-thru. Troy Perkins, a project manager with Gerald N Candito Construction, out of Georgia, said he and a Panda Express
representative would be conducting the final walkthrough on either Dec. 2 or 3 and, barring any issues, would just be waiting on the final approval from Daytona Beach. Once a certificate of occupancy is issued, the restaurant could open within the week, Perkins said. A representative from Panda Express could not be reached in time for the publication of this article.
The Panda Express is one of several new restaurants under construction in the area between Williamson Boulevard and North Clyde Morris on LPGA. The area is near Tanger Outlets shopping plaza and abuts a new large apartment complex.
A Bojangles — a quick-service Southern chicken restaurant — directly neighbor-
ing the Panda Express at 1956 LPGA Blvd., is also wrapping up construction.
The Bojangles is a 3,170-square-foot building that will also have a two-lane drive-thru and has a maximum occupancy of 73. Daytona Beach first announced the LPGA Bojangles would be opening soon on June 5 on the
The
true reminder of the love and community that surrounds The Salty Mermaid Art Gallery & Studio.”
food
Coastal Gateway Real Estate Group organizes donation to Grace food pantry
Coastal Gateway Real Estate Group recently organized a social event at Yacht Harbor Village condos raising $200 for the Grace Community Food Pantry and collecting nonperishable food items that filled two wagon loads.
Joani McCullough and Fran DeMartin from Coastal Gateway organized the event.
Email business stories to sierra@observerlocalnews.com.
city Facebook page. This will be the first Bojangles to open in the area, according to the restaurant’s website.
According to city documents, the Bojangles is undergoing the final review. While the final building review is pending, the project has already passed a fire site, electrical, gas, mechanical and
plumbing final review at the end of November.
Nearby, at 1972 LPGA Blvd., a second Daytona Beach Dutch Bros, a drive-thru coffee shop, is under construction, and White Castle has announced its fourth store location in
With
Annette Turcotte, Crystal Strobridge, The Salty Mermaid owner Penny Shumate, Amber Shellenberger and Christine Marie.
Wendy Burke performs during
Salty Mermaid Art Gallery and Studio’s sixth anniversary holiday party.
Mary Vamos, Joanne Murphy, Fran DeMartin and Joani McCullough at Yacht Harbor condos with wagon loads of nonperishable
collected for Grace Community Food Pantry. Courtesy photos
Florida, to be located at 1944 LPGA Blvd., on the east lot next to the Panda Express. No plans or applications have been filed with Daytona Beach for the White Castle, according to the city’s website.
The new Daytona Beach Bojangles is located at 1956 LPGA Blvd.
Daytona Beach’s new Panda Express is located at 1950 LPGA Blvd.
Photos by Sierra Williams
REAL ESTATE
Palm Coast Plantation home tops list at $1.2M
Ahouse at 110 Heron Drive, in Palm Coast Plantation, was the top real estate transaction for Nov. 15-21, in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The house sold on Nov. 18, for $1,200,000. Built in 2013, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a pool, a boat dock, a fireplace, an outdoor kitchen and 3,499 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $690,000.
ALEXIS MILLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Condos
A condo at 20 Porto Mar, Unit 302, sold on Nov. 21, for $840,000. Built in 2004, the condo is a 2/2.5 and has 2,150 square feet. It sold in 2015 for $438,000.
A condo at 500 Canopy Walk Lane, Unit 515, sold on Nov. 20, for $425,000. Built in 2003, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,712 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $320,000.
A condo at 102 Yacht Harbor Drive, Unit 465, sold on Nov. 19, for $399,000. Built in 2006, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1m570 square feet. It sold in 2006 for $675,000.
PALM COAST
Flagler Village
A house at 6 Wandering Creek Way sold on Nov. 21, for $357,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,193 square feet.
A house at 35 Derbyshire Drive sold on Nov. 20, for $312,900. Built in 2025, the
house is a 4/2 and has 1,607 square feet.
Lehigh Woods
A house at 14 Ryal Tern Lane sold on Nov. 21, for $330,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,230 square feet. It sold in 2002 for $99,900.
A house at 12 Ripcord Lane sold on Nov. 17, for $304,900. Built in 2025, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,333 square feet.
Palm Coast Plantation
A house at 21 North Riverwalk Drive sold on Nov. 21, for $699,999. Built in 2022, the house is a 3/2.5 and has 2,031 square feet.
A house at 207 S. Riverwalk Drive sold on Nov. 21, for $1,070,000. Built in 2010, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a boat house, a boat lift, a boat dock, a fireplace, an outdoor kitchen and 2,929 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $1,102,500.
A house at 80 North Lakewalk Drive sold on Nov. 19, for $652,000. Built in 2023,
New build in Ormondby-the-Sea: $750K
Ahouse at 155 Avalon Drive in the Avalon by the Sea subdivision was the top estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormondby-the-Sea for the week of Nov. 8-14. The house sold on Nov. 10, for $750,000. Built in 2025, the house is a 3/3 and has a fireplace and 2,024 square feet.
JARLEENE
Condos The condo at 140 Limewood Place, Unit 2, sold on Nov. 10, for $147,000. Built in 1985, the condo is a 2/2.5 and has 1,316 square feet. It last sold in 1990 for $58,000.
The condo at 1 John Anderson Drive, Unit 1070, sold on Nov. 14, for $380,000. Built in 1996, the condo is a 2/2.5 and has 1,745 square feet. It last sold in 2010 for $160,000.
ORMOND BEACH
Arbor Lakes
The townhome at 36 Arbor Lake Park sold on Nov. 10, for $199,000. Built in 1985, the townhome is a 3/2.5 and has 1,496 square feet. It last sold
in 2017 for $111,000.
Archer’s Mill
The house at 3350 Arch Ave. sold on Nov. 13, for $402,990. Built in 2025, the 4/2 house has 2,034 square feet.
Castlegate
The house at 3 King Edward Drive sold on Nov. 14, for $470,000. Built in 1990, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a fireplace, a pool and 2,187 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $315,000.
Fountain View
The house at 1351 Morning Walk Drive sold on Nov. 10, for $371,665. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,020 square feet.
Halifax Plantation
The house at 2861 Monaghan
Drive sold on Nov. 10, for $420,000. Built in 2022, the house is a 3/3 and has 2,048 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $442,000.
The house at 3753 Mayo Circle sold on Nov. 14, for $635,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 4/4 and has a pool and 2,863 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $395,000.
Pine Hills
The manufactured house at 520 Bryant St. sold on Nov. 12, for $100,000. Built in 1970, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,688 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $110,000.
Plantation Bay
The house at 1273 Sunningdale Lane sold on Nov. 12, for $490,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace, a pool and 2,117 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $460,000.
Saddlers Run
The house at 51 Sounders Trail Circle sold on Nov. 14, for $415,000. Built in 1999, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,898 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $275,000.
Sandy Oak The house at 539 Sandy Oaks Blvd. sold on Nov. 14, for $336,500. Built in 1987, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,681 square feet. It last sold in 2015 for $156,000.
JOAN BURNETT REALTOR® Broker Associate
Grande Champion
The house at 1036 Morfontaine St. sold on Nov. 10, for $399,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,020 square feet.
Latitude Margaritaville
The house at 1078 Castaway Court sold on Nov. 10 for $660,000. Built in 2019, the house is a 2/2.5 and has a spa, a pool and 2,080 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $473,300.
The house at 326 Pop Top Lane sold on Nov. 10, for $392,500. Built in 2023, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,464 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $331,100.
The house at 596 Hang Loose Way sold on Nov. 10, for $510,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,684 square feet. It last
Tomoka Oaks
The house at 64 Oakmont Circle sold on Nov. 14, for $445,000. Built in 1975, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool and 1,850 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $265,000.
ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA
Ocean Aire
The house at 119 Ocean Aire
Terrace S. sold on Nov. 14, for
sold in 2024 for $496,000. The house at 374 Lost Shaker Way sold on Nov. 12, for $540,000. Built in 2020, the house is a 2/2.5 and has 2,067 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $575,000.
The house at 768 Coral Reef Way sold on Nov. 12, for $565,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,848 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $451,300.
The house at 512 Barefoot Life Lane sold on Nov. 12, for $657,000. Built in 2022, the house is a 2/2.5 and has 2,339 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $461,000.
The house at 245 Gypsy Palace Lane sold on Nov. 13, for $345,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,205 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $345,900.
The house at 308 Low Tide
$379,000. Built in 2005, the 3/2 house has 1,637 square feet. It last sold in 2010 for $189,900.
Ocean Breeze
The house at 13 Starlight Drive sold on Nov. 12, for $455,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,610 square feet. It last sold in 2011 for $265,000.
Lane sold on Nov. 10, for $537,500. Built in 2022, the house is a 2/2.5 and has a pool, a spa and 1,743 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $424,700.
Preserve at LPGA The house at 1227 Belle Isle Lane sold on Nov. 10, for $379,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 5/2.5 and has 2,326 square feet.
LPGA The house at 1143 Champions Drive sold on Nov. 13, for $360,000. Built in 2006, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,804 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $390,000.
Mosaic The house at 249 Mosaic Blvd. sold on Nov. 12, for $449,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,003 square feet. It last sold in April 2025 for $522,500.
The house at 9 Dolphin Ave. sold on Nov. 14, for $400,000. Built in 1956, the house is a 2/1 and has a pool, a spa and 1,359 square feet. It last sold in 2001 for $83,000.
John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.
Ormond by the Sea – This cozy 2-bedroom,
Ormond Beach Plaza
WEST DAYTONA BEACH
FOCUS ON FAITH
Missionaries launch Haitian Creole classes
Two elders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Elijah Nyre and Chinaza Uyanwune, have launched a new outreach effort aimed at supporting the local Haitian population. The missionaries have begun teaching weekly lessons in Haitian Creole as a way to share the message of Jesus Christ while also helping participants develop English-language skills.
The free classes are held every Thursday at 7 p.m. at 402 N. Palmetto St., Bunnell, and are open to all members of the public, regardless of religious background. A Sunday School class in Haitian Creole will also be held at 10 a.m. the first Sunday of each month through the end of the year; in 2026, the time changes to 12:30 p.m.
In addition to the weekly meetings, Nyre and Uyanwune, originally from Victorville, California, and Boston, Massachusetts, respectively, use social media to reach individuals who may not yet be aware of the church’s programs.
“A lot of people reach out to us through social media, where we post about Jesus Christ and our English classes,” Nyre said. “When someone fills out their info, we’ll call them, set up a time to visit, and just get to know them. We invite them to read the scriptures, to pray, and to come worship Jesus Christ with us. We also go out and talk with everyone we meet, inviting anyone who’s looking for peace, community, or a sense of family. That’s really important to a lot of people.”
Call Nyre and Uyanwune at 689-299-2614.
St. Mark by the Sea hosts annual craft and bake sale
Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the Annual Craft and Bake Sale hosted by St. Mark by the Sea Lutheran Church, located at 303 Palm Coast Parkway NE, on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Organized by the Women of St. Mark, the sale supports local, state, and national non-profit organizations.
Attendees can find a variety of handmade crafts such as quilts, stained glass, diamond paintings, table runners, and microwave holders, as well as homemade baked goods including cookies, candies, breads and muffins.
Other items available include furniture and a boxed electric child-size toy car. Cash and credit cards will be accepted.
The event provides an opportunity for the community to support charitable causes while browsing handmade items and baked goods.
Methodist churches unite to serve Thanksgiving
Three local Methodist congregations recently teamed up to provide hot Thanksgiving meals at one shared location, offering support to residents experiencing food insecurity during the holiday season.
First United Methodist Church of Bunnell, First AME Church of Palm Coast, and Palm Coast United Methodist Church combined their volunteers and resources to host the community meal.
The initiative was organized in partnership with Grace Tabernacle Ministries under the leadership of Pastor
Charles Silano, who also directs the Grace Community Food Pantry. In addition to the prepared Thanksgiving meals, the pantry distributed 818 food boxes, including 700 turkeys, for families to cook at home. The coordinated effort helped ensure that households throughout the area had access to both festive meals and essential groceries for the holiday.
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton announces roof repairs
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church has launched a capital campaign to address major infrastructure needs, including extensive roof repairs and the expansion of the parish columbarium, the sacred space used for the interment of cremated remains. The initiative is intended to maintain the safety and functionality of the church while accommodating a growing faith community. The project will focus on restoring aging structures and expanding facilities to better serve parishioners and visitors. As part of the campaign, the parish is coordinating events and initiatives to engage the community in supporting the necessary improvements.
The columbarium expansion will provide additional space for interment, while the roof repairs are expected to prevent further deterioration and ensure the long-term integrity of the building. The campaign reflects an ongoing commitment to preserving the parish’s sacred spaces and supporting the needs of the local faith community for years to come. Send your faithrelated news to alexis@ observerlocalnews.com.
Elijah Nyre and Chinaza Uyanwune Photo by Brian McMillan
Stephenson, Wilcox and Associates
Turkey Run: past, present and future
Founder Stu Sarjeant wants to include the next generation — even if they’re not into hot rods.
BRIAN MCMILLAN PUBLISHER
Now 80 years old, Stuart Sarjeant has a little secret.
While he is the founder of the Daytona Turkey Run event, a national hot rod phenomenon, he no longer drives a hot rod. Not even close.
“I drive an electric vehicle,” he said. “I have a Tesla, and I have a Rivian. Some of my friends have given me the evil eye.”
He added, to maintain his reputation: “I still have a ’69 Camaro that fire breathes and burns tires.”
Now in its 52nd year, the Daytona Turkey Run was expected to bring 200,000 hot rod fans to the Daytona International Speedway over the Thanksgiving weekend.
Sarjeant’s son was there, too — the same son who, as a boy, convinced his father to start it.
The origin story begins in 1973, when the Ormond Beach Gaslight Parade was about 14 years old. The Sarjeants admired the parade, and they wanted to participate, so they got in line, hoping to show off their 1923 Ford T-Bucket.
When the Sarjeants arrived, however, a zealous volunteer from the Jaycees ran up to them and, “literally screaming,” as Sarjeant remembers it, said, “‘Get that hot rod out of here! You can’t put that in here — that’s junk!’”
The parade, as it turned out, was only for “classic” cars. No modified, custom or hot rods.
(This year, the 67th annual Gaslight Parade was run by the Volusia Region Antique Automobile Club of America, featuring vehicles from the year 2000 and older, and the rules remain the same.)
The Sarjeants backed up, got out of line, and drove back to their home, on Tomoka Farms Road. Sarjeant remembers his young son, bundled up in the cold wind in the T Bucket, crying the whole way home. When they arrived, he asked his father, “Can we have our own parade next year?”
He got his wish. The next
year, 1974, they gathered 45 hot rods from car clubs for a show — the Fun Rally — the Saturday after Thanksgiving, at a Howard Johnson hotel in Ormond Beach. They had a hot dog roast that night in the parking lot.
In subsequent years, it grew to 130 vehicles, then 900. It changed its name to the Turkey Rod Run, and then just the Turkey Run, and finally moved to the Daytona International Speedway. This year, the event featured about 7,000 cars for show or sale.
‘A FAMILY REUNION’
At the Turkey Run about 10 years ago, a raffle ticket was drawn with a handwritten message on the back. As WJBJ disc jockey Jennifer Johnston remembers it being announced on the air, on the back of the ticket was a message that mentioned a woman’s name and read: “Will you marry me?”
From the crowd, gathered in folding chairs on a portion of the infield of the Daytona International Speedway, the woman screamed. Her boyfriend, Pat, was sitting next to her, and she said yes; they ended up getting married.
Johnston and her husband, Butch Johnston, of Eustis, have been going to the Turkey Run to broadcast tunes on WJBJ for 27 years, and they meet a lot of the same people every year, including this couple. So she recalls Pat, who is from Long Island, being asked, “Why didn’t you propose earlier?”
“He said, ‘I have been,’” Johnston recalled. “‘I’ve been writing that note on my ticket for eight years.’ And it was the eighth ticket that was pulled.”
Johnston doesn’t remember what prize Pat won with his ticket that year, but, of course, the true prize for him was his wife.
Jennifer Johnston said the Turkey Run has the feel of “a family reunion” because so many people have made it part of their Thanksgiving tradition and come every year to share their love of cars.
Some of the news from this “family reunion” is sad: Last year, Pat’s wife died, the Johnstons learned. But, he came again to the Turkey Run again anyway.
“I saw him yesterday,” Butch Johnston said.
Turkey Run because she can meet people from all over the country and hear their stories. The best part, though, is knowing what the Street Rods club does for local charities through its raffles. A Flagler Palm Coast High School student received a scholarship from the club in a recent year, she said.
THE LOVE OF CARS
Another family, from Palm Coast, was volunteering at a tent near the WJBJ trailer, where raffle tickets were being sold. Pete Cavaliere has been a member of the Daytona Beach Street Rods for 26 years and has come to the Turkey Run each year.
“The cars, the camaraderie,” Cavaliere said, “the love of cars draws us all together. … My father was a car guy, and I caught the bug from him.” Cavaliere currently owns a 2022 Ford Mustang GT — the seventh Mustang he has owned. His first was a 1968 Fastback, which he bought for $2,800, right after he got out of the Army, in 1968. Today, the same car could be worth over $100,000, he said.
Pete’s wife, Sandy, admitted with a laugh that she prefers “comfortable, new cars” over old cars. But she loves the
Joining the Cavalieres at the event, on Nov. 28, was their grandson Samuel, a Matanzas High School student. At 15 years old, he can’t drive yet, so he’s an honorary member of the club.
“It helps me connect with my grandparents,” he said.
A SPIRIT OF INCLUSIVITY
The Turkey Run has grown, in part, thanks to Sarjeant’s philosophy of inclusivity. Vendors were invited in the early days, and other clubs were invited. Today, there is a small, full-time, year-round staff, including Gregg Pellicer and Marketing Director James Richards, of Palm Coast. Richards said there are close to 250 golf carts active throughout the Turkey Run, to go along with 2,500 vendors.
Celebrity mechanic Derek Drinkwater and the social media influencer Giuseppe, of
Giuseppe’s Garage, have been recent attendees.
This year, Sarjeant has been thinking about the future.
Does the next generation still care about hot rods? He believes there’s more interest in tilted wheels and exterior modifications to Korean or Japanese cars, and less interest in engines and horsepower.
“It’s a totally different crowd,” he said.
Is that crowd the future of the Turkey Run?
“It has to be,” Sarjeant said enthusiastically.
He doesn’t see the next generation as one to exclude, but to include. That’s the spirit that started the Turkey Run in the first place.
Sandy and Pete Cavaliere, with their grandson Samuel Cavaliere, all of Palm Coast. Photos by Brian McMillan
Cathy Sarjeant with her father, Turkey Run founder Stuart Sarjeant. Cathy said she has never had a traditional Thanksgiving dinner on Thanksgiving — usually just a sandwich while working the event.
Daytona Turkey Run Marketing Director James Richard, of Palm Coast, with Patti Jeffries.
Over 7,000 cars were for show or sale at the 52nd annual Daytona Turkey Run.
Caleb Chesley, of Daytona Beach, and Ben Parsons, of Palm Coast, helped with a youth fundraiser for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
About 200,000 attendees were anticipated at the 52nd annual Daytona Turkey Run.
Among thousands of cars and trucks on display was this wooden truck, which took 3,0000 hours to build, over nine years.
Flagler Free Clinic receives $400,000 gift as it celebrates 20 years of care
Volunteers were recognized at ‘Evening of Gratitude’ Nov. 15.
CINDY DALECKI
MARKETING 2 GO
The Flagler Free Clinic, which provides free health care to uninsured residents of Flagler and Volusia counties, has received a $400,000 bequest from the estate of Mr. Florence, representing 30% of his estate. The announcement was made Saturday, Nov. 15, as the clinic hosted its 20th anniversary “Evening of Gratitude,” at Grand Haven Clubhouse in Palm Coast.
The gift will serve as seed money toward a future permanent home for the clinic and will help launch its capital campaign. The organization currently pays approximately $50,000 per year in rent, at 700 E. Moody Blvd., in Bunnell.
During the program, volunteer Janet Powell was recognized for beginning her service with the clinic in 2005. Known for her kindness and steady presence, Powell is now retired but continues to recruit new volunteers and advocate for the clinic’s mission.
The clinic also honored front desk volunteer Margaret Chodosh and Dr. Lance Chodosh, who received the 2025 Canakaris-Coleman Dedication to Volunteerism Award. The award is named for the clinic’s founders, Dr. John Canakaris, Flagler County’s first physician in the late 1940s, and Faith Coleman, ARNP. Rosario Aseniero Alfonso, patient services director for the past eight years, was recognized. Colleagues noted that she knows nearly every patient by name and is often the first friendly face new patients meet as she helps them complete applications and navigate services.
Dr. Don Alfonso was honored for being the clinic’s first volunteer provider. He served patients for 20 years before retiring from his volunteer
role last year.
Maria Thomas, the clinic’s social worker, was thanked for three years of service.
The clinic’s newest administrative assistant, Mary Darlington, was also recognized.
AdventHealth was thanked for providing unlimited imaging services to Flagler County Free Clinic patients, expanding access to diagnostic care that many could not otherwise afford. Flagler County Human Services was recognized for collaborating with the clinic to connect patients with a full suite of additional services and resources.
In a separate luncheon recently, Dr. Manuel Frankel, DDS, and his wife and assistant, Paula Frankel, were presented with the CanakarisColeman Volunteer of the Year Award.
“Dr. Manny and Paula Frankel exemplify the spirit of service that our founders envisioned,” Belletto said. “Their dedication to providing dental care to our patients has been transformational for our community.”
The luncheon also celebrated high school volunteer Aasi Bharucha. Over the past two years, Bharucha has volunteered every weekend and dedicated her entire summer to serving patients at the clinic before returning to school.
“Aasi’s dedication is truly inspiring,” Belletto said. “Her commitment to serving others while pursuing her dream of becoming a physician shows the incredible impact young volunteers can have on their community.”
Volunteers across all service levels were recognized with commemorative pins.
Twenty-year veterans Dr. Jane Walter, Dr. Mark Kennedy and RN Hazel Deveaux lead the clinic’s most seasoned volunteers, joined by 18-year volunteer Dr. Ruben Sierra and 16-year volunteer Pat Prill. Long-term volunteers with 10 or more years of service include Belletto (11 years), Dr. Chiamaka Iheme, Dr. Martin Pourkesali, APRN Adrienne Murbarak and RN Sue Osmond (all 10 years).
New volunteers welcomed in 2025 include Dr. Alexa Stylianakis, Dr. Vijay Jain, Britta Hoffman, Julie Coolidge and Meghan Klumpp.
Another event held in celebration of the 20-year anniversary was a charity golf tournament on Nov. 3 at Ocean Hammock Golf Course, which raised $50,000 to support clinic operations.
Trembley.
The Evening of Gratitude also included a special moment of recognition for donor and board member Mr. Jack Leckie.
The tournament and the postevent luncheon were planned by longtime clinic supporters Dr. Shinoo Wainganker, an orthopedic volunteer at the clinic for 11years, along with Frank Petruno and Tony
A close friend and golf buddy of the late Dr. John Canakaris, Jack was introduced to the mission and heart of the clinic through Dr. John and quickly became one of its most loyal supporters. When he learned the clinic was launching its dental program, Jack made a substantial gift to purchase a brand-new dental chair, helping to open the clinic’s dental services and expand care to patients who had nowhere else to turn.
“For 20 years, the Flagler Free Clinic has been a safe-
ty net for those who have nowhere else to turn,” Belletto said. “This anniversary is not just about our organization — it’s about every volunteer, donor, partner and supporter who has helped keep our doors open and our services available to the community.”
Since its founding, the Flagler Free Clinic has provided
YOUR TOWN
Sea Turtle Coloring Contest awards presented at library
Sea Turtle Rescue Team
members Mary Susan Hultay and Cynthia Weston held a Sea Turtle Photo Coloring Contest for children with support from the Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach, Florida. Awards were presented on Nov. 15 at the Flagler County Public Library — Palm Coast.
The winner, Maximillian Kajewski, received a Sea Turtle Adoption Certificate from the Loggerhead Marinelife Center.
Other winners were Landon Earnshaw (second place), Emma Gregondy (third place), Emma McFedden (fourth place) and Charlie Serrano and Indigo Vasquez (fifth place). All the winners received turtle magnets and bracelets, crayon packs, lollipops and sea turtle-related baseball caps.
Honorable mention recipients were Rhoades Christopher, Rhea Davison, Bailey McFedden, Caroline Pavlova in group one and Harbor Lou Christopher, Ahro Taylor Maldonada, Sol Taylor Maldonada and Trent Geiger in group two. Send news tips to brent@ observerlocalnews.com.
Sea turtle photo coloring contest winners, from left: Emma Gregondy (third place), Landon Ernshaw (second), Maximillian Kajeski (first), Emma McFedden (fourth), Charlie Serrano (fifth) and coordinator Mary Susan Hultay. Courtesy photo
free medical care, medications and support services to uninsured adults in Flagler County, relying on donations, grants and volunteer support rather than patient fees. The clinic’s board and staff said continued community support will be essential as they look ahead to the next 20 years of service.
Left: Rosario Alfonso, Mardy Donasco, Maya Tan, Phyllis VanReeth, Mary Darlington, Larice Tan. Below: Dave Hause, Ed Samuels, Terri Belletto, Bruce Gough.
Terri Belletto, Laurie Harrison, Maria Thomas and Mary Darlington.
Dr. Mark Kennedy and Sharon Atack.
Aasi Bharucha
AJ Belletto, Dr. Richard and Maria Smith
Above left: Danielle Clymer, Robert Daren, Dr. Patricia Biert-Daren, Robert Daren, Marcelle Miller. Photos courtesy of Cindy Dalecki
‘We knew it was going to be a dog fight’
CONTRIBUTING
Heart, dedication and discipline.
Mainland head coach Jerrime “Squatty” Bell said that is what got the Bucs to the Region 1-5A final against the
on Friday, Nov. 28. The Sharks will face Lakeland in the Class 5A state semifinals on Dec. 5. Bell talked to his players following the loss. He said
people did not expect Mainland to be “worth a darn” this year following its 5-6 record last season, but the Bucs persevered and finished 9-3.
“It’s playoff time — there’s got to be a winner, there’s got to be the loser,” he said. “We didn’t play our best. I’m not going to talk about tonight. I’m going to talk about the journey that we took. You started at the Kickoff Classic against a top five team in the state, at the time, down 14-13 and came back and won. You kept building from there.”
Mainland quarterback Sebastian Johnson completed 24 of 42 passes for 328 yards. Ponte Vedra quarterback Cole Rosendahl passed for 239 yards. Even though Mainland accumulated more yards on offense, 402 to 357, Ponte Vedra was able to capitalize on Mainland turnovers — three lost fumbles recoveries and two interceptions.
“It was just an off night for us,” Bell said. “We never really, truly got a rhythm, even though we probably had over 400 yards offense. It just never felt like we were really into the game. With Juice (Braylyn Simmons), Sebastian and our
receivers, we never got on the same page all night long.”
The first quarter set the tone with a fumbled handoff by the Bucs that was recovered by Ponte Vedra linebacker Bennett Baumgartner. A punt fake and subsequent pass from Sam Cote to Alex Winkles led to a first down followed by Winkles’ touchdown run.
Bell said he and his coaches had scouted Ponte Vedra well and knew there would be areas of their game they could take advantage of. On the first drive, they utilized that knowledge but eventually turned the ball over.
“We knew it was going to be a dog fight,” he said. “They were exactly who we thought they were, but they played mistake-free football and we picked the wrong night to play our ‘C’ game.”
Kicker David Aponte put the Bucs on the board with a field goal in the second quarter. Ponte Vedra kicker Noah Ash matched those points that quarter and also had four touchbacks in the game. Rosendahl and Jack Berquist scored the final two touchdowns for the Sharks. Jaden “Melo” Parks caught a pass in the fourth quarter for the only Bucs touchdown.
Bell’s second year at the helm of Mainland football proved to be a successful one with a season record reflecting his seniors’ commitment to the program, resulting in a deeper playoff run. Last year, the Bucs were eliminated in the first round with a 21-0 loss to Tallahassee Lincoln. This year, the Bucs had a 34-13 first-round win against Middleburg and a 36-31 win over Lynn Haven Mosley in the regional semfinals.
Before the start of the season, the seniors bonded with a goal in mind to change the program and put it back on the right trajectory. Bell said they did just that and added some big wins along the way — a win against perennial power Cocoa on Aug. 29, a win
All-American at middle school nationals Eighth grader Avery Wisniewski of the Imagine School at Town Center club team earned All-American honors at the Middle School Cross Country Nationals on Nov. 16 in Louisville, Kentucky. Nine members of the Imagine School team participated. Wisniewski placed 22nd out of 289 runners in the 4-kilometer championship race with a time of 15:22 in windy
conditions. The top 25 receive All-American honors. Runners were also scored by state. Wisniewski placed fourth
among Florida runners. Imagine School’s No. 2 runner was fifth grader Aspen Lester, who placed 105th
against Kissimmee Osceola, ranked top 12 in the state at the time, and a win at Georgia state power Coffee.
“When you mention 2025 Mainland High School football, people need to respect the fact that these guys are winners, and they did it their way,” Bell said.
Seniors led the team not only with leadership skills but also top team performances. Johnson wrapped up the season with 2,872 yards passing and 2,979 total yards. Middle linebacker Dennis “Tank” King III completed the season with 78 solo tackles, 39 assists, two interceptions and one sack, while defensive back Jhavin Westbrook had three interceptions and was a major playmaker.
“They were determined to make a run, and they did it,” Bell said. “Now, we’ve got to build on that leadership that we saw from Sebastian (Johnson), Christian (Cooper) and Dennis (King) and some of the other seniors like Kiarin Sullivan and Amare Campbell. We have to build on that and make sure that all they did this year isn’t forgotten and make a deeper run next year because of the path they put us on.”
Simmons led the team with 1,129 rushing yards and 231 receiving this season. Sophomore Kadin Flores finished with 1,158 total all-purpose yards. Junior linebacker Tamaj Woodard followed King’s lead with 72 solo tackles, 36 assists and 3.5 sacks.
Bell said he will miss the smiles of his seniors but is looking forward to helping the underclassmen evolve during the offseason.
“We are going to miss those smiles more than anything else,” he said. “Those smiles make the day. They make practice go by better. Losing those smiles is going to hurt, but we’ve got some good, young leaders coming up, and I’m looking forward to seeing them smile a lot more, too.”
“When you mention 2025 Mainland High School football, people need to respect the fact that these guys are winners and they did it their way.”
with a time of 16:33. There were just five girls in the race in fourth or fifth grade, and Aspen was the first to finish. Madelyn Yorgey rounded out the team’s top three, finishing 154th in 17:12.
The Imagine School team placed 19th out of 27 middle school teams. The other girls on the team who ran in the race were Mia Moore, Hailey Brennan, Addy Saunders, Ayana Henry, Natalia Langer and Lydia Cottman.
Mile series
begins Dec. 6
The Imagine School at Town Center cross county team is hosting the annual Imagine Mile Series, a series of three 1-mile races on Dec. 6, 13 and 20 at Flagler Palm Coast High School. The races will begin at 8:30 a.m. The series is open to all children in grades 4 to 8. Each runner will run 1 mile on the track. At the last race, all runners who complete at least two of the three races will be given a finisher medal. There will be series awards for the top three runners in each grade level for both boys and girls. For more information and
The Imagine School at Town Center girls cross country team, at Middle School Nationals (from left): Avery Wisniewski, Aspen Lester, Ayana Henry, Hailey Brennan, Addy Saunders, Natalia Langer, Lydia Cottman and Madelyn Yorgey. Not pictured: Mia Moore. Courtesy photo
MICHELE MEYERS
WRITER
Ponte Vedra Sharks. Ponte Vedra ended Mainland’s season with a 27-10 win at the “Shark Tank”
Mainland wraps up playoffs with 27-10 loss to Ponte Vedra
JERRIME BELL, Mainland head football coach
Ponte Vedra’s Hudson Hauseman tackles Mainland’s Braylyn “Juice” Simmons
Mainland wide receiver Christian Cooper (left) sprints to a first down as Ponte Vedra ‘s Trey Butz (29) moves in for the tackle.
Mainland lineman Amarion Lane (right) dives on a fumble along with Ponte Vedra’s Brody McLeod (left). Photos by Michele Meyers
Paiden Hickman drops 27 points to lead Matanzas girls basketball
The freshman drained 4-of-9 shots from 3-point range in the Pirates’ home opener.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Matanzas freshman Paiden Hickman had scored a total of 22 points in her first two games. On Tuesday, Dec. 2, she poured in 27 points to lead the Pirates to a 43-22 victory over Atlantic in their home opener.
“I knew coming in she’d be a key piece for us this year,” Matanzas first-year coach Cory Curtis said. “She played (a team-high) 30 minutes tonight.”
Hickman hit 4 of 9 from behind the 3-point arc and connected on 11 of 19 field goals overall. She played varsity basketball as an eighth grader last year for First
Baptist Christian Academy, where she averaged 9.6 points per game.
“I’ve been playing basketball since I was 5 years old,” she said, adding that until this summer she mostly had been an inside player.
“I never really took (3-point) shots for my AAU teams,” she said. “This summer, I got out of the paint and started shooting. I feel more comfortable (on the perimeter).”
She is shooting 54.5% (6 of 11) from 3-point range after not attempting any 3-pointers for the Crusaders last year.
The Pirates improved to 2-1, while the Sharks fell to 2-2. Atlantic went to the free throw line 22 times, but connected on just seven free throws.
Santana Dixon led Atlantic with nine points. Senior Katelynn Smith added seven points and a team-high 12 rebounds for Matanzas.
“She’s our point forward. She makes our offense go,” Curtis said of Smith.
Smith, Ruby Fogel (nine rebounds) and Kaylina Vitt (three assists) are the only seniors on the team. The Pirates also have two juniors and eight freshmen with Hickman and 6-foot-1 freshman Kyleigh Rainey playing key roles.
“We’re looking forward to Paiden and Kyleigh sliding into leadership roles. Those girls are the future,” Curtis said.
After taking Thanksgiving week off, the Pirates had three games scheduled this week.
Matanzas hosts Seabreeze on Thrusday, Dec. 4, at 6 p.m. and then visits county rival Flagler Palm Coast on Friday, Dec. 5, at 7 p.m. FPC opened its season with a 63-13 win at Unversity on Dec. 2.
“I know FPC is going to be a tough game, but it’s not going to be like last year (when the Bulldogs won 58-31),” Curtis said.
Heather Curry, HIS
Matanzas’ Ruby Fogel goes up for a layup.
Atlantic’s Zhaveya Watson dribbles between Paiden Hickman (23) and Aurora Purdy (12). Photos by Keishia McLendon
Katelynn Smith shoots a jumper.
Matanzas’ Paiden Hickman (left) shoots over Atlantic’s Santana Dixon.
SIDELINES
USSP national championships at Pictona
The 2025 US Senior Pickleball National Championships will be held Dec. 5-8 at Pictona in Holly Hill. The tournament at the 49-court facility will have brackets for players ages 50 to 80-plus in skill divisions and age groups in five-year increments.
“US Senior Pickleball is thrilled to celebrate senior athletes by providing them the avenue to compete in their own age and skill levels in a round robin tournament that offers plenty of competition,” Karen Parrish, USSP’s events director, said in a press release.
The tournament will be preceded by a Pickleball Mindset Pro Demonstration on Dec. 3-4 featuring senior pro Dayne Gingrich and personal trainer Jill Martin. Admission to the demo is $25.
Rose leads FBCA girls to 3-0 mark
The First Baptist Christian Academy girls basketball has won its first three games of the season with seventh grader Julia “Jay” Rose averaging 32.5 points per game. Rose is leading the nation in scoring, but the minimum number of games for stat leaders at this point in the season is five games.
The Crusaders defeated Father Lopez, Halifax Academy and Forest Lake Academy. Their next game is Friday, Dec. 5, at home against Orangewood Christian.
USA BMX grands
improved to 5-1-1. They host Spruce Creek at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8.
Soccer recap: Olivia Chase scores 6 goals
Considered the pinnacle of BMX racing, the Grands had over 800 motos (race heats).
Olivia Chase scored six goals in Seabreeze’s 8-0 girls soccer victory over Mainland on Monday, Dec. 1. The senior striker is among the national leaders with 19 goals in seven games. The Sandcrabs
Victor Ortiz of Palm Coast competed in the USA BMX Grands on Nov. 27-30 at the SageNet Center In Tulsa, Oklahoma. Competing in the 56-and-over Intermediate division, Ortiz placed eighth in the Race of Champions (the ROC) and fifth in the Grand Nationals.
The Flagler Palm Coast girls team defeated New Smyrna Beach 2-1 on Dec. 2 to improve to 7-1-1. Hailey Sammons and Lauralee Macleod each scored. FPC coach Pete Hald can notch his 550th career win on Friday, Dec. 5, at home against Sandalwood. The FPC boys soccer team (4-3) fell to Taylor, 2-1, at home on Dec 1. Rami Amiri scored his sixth goal of the season for the Bulldogs. FPC was scheduled to host Sandalwood on Dec. 3.
The Matanzas boys (4-2-1) defeated Sabreeze (1-4-3), 2-1 on Dec. 2.
Palm Coast’s Victor Ortiz at USA BMX Grand Nationals in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Courtesy photo
Three Bulldog wrestlers win titles at Flagler Rotary Girls Invitational
“If you leave the state tournament with three champs, you win the state tournament. So, we left here with three champs today. Let’s leave the state tournament with three champs.”
DAVID BOSSARDET, FPC wrestling coach
FPC’s Johnson was named Outstanding Wrestler; Calidonio and Vilar also took home first-place medals.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Flagler Palm Coast wrestler
Joslyn Johnson is calling this season her “redemption year.”
The first day of the season couldn’t have been any better.
Johnson won the 105-pound weight class with four consecutive pins at the second annual Flagler Rotary Girls Wrestling Invitational on Tuesday, Nov. 25, at FPC’s main gym.
At the end of the tournament, she was presented with the invitational’s Outstanding Wrestler Award. And, ahead of the championship round, the Bulldogs honored their two seniors — Johnson and Alexa Calidonio — on Senior Night.
Johnson, Calidonio and Alisha Vilar all won first-place medals for the Bulldogs, while Juliana Mills placed third.
With only five girls on the team this season, FPC placed fifth out of 38 teams at the Flagler Rotary. Orlando Freedom, Viera, Middleburg and St. John Neumann of Naples took the top four places, respectively.
“I don’t pay attention to team scores at these tournaments,” FPC coach David
Bossardet said. “We want to win them because we’re in a competition, but if you leave the state tournament with three champs, you win the state tournament. So, we left here with three champs today. Let’s leave the state tournament with three champs.”
The Bulldogs won the inaugural Flagler Rotary Girls Invitational last year and went on to win the girls state championship. Although they graduated five wrestlers who placed first, second or third at state last season, three state qualifiers — Johnson, Calidonio and Mills — have returned.
Johnson placed third at state last season after winning the 100-pound state championship as a sophomore. She was one of three Florida wrestlers at 105 pounds last season who were nationally ranked. The others were Erin Rizzuto, who beat Johnson in the state semifinals, and Camdyn Elliott, who won the state title.
Johnson said she came into the Flagler Rotary with a different mindset.
“In other tournaments I’m kind of, ‘Just go ahead and win, go head and win,’” she said. “I think today, I had a couple of matches where I was
able to work on a couple things and just slow down and make sure I’m not getting into my head. So, it was nice to come in, especially in the environment being Senior Night, to just have a clear mind and have my family around me cheering me on.”
Rizzuto has graduated, and Elliott of Gulf Breeze has moved up in weight. She won the 115-pound title at Tuesday’s tournament. Johnson came into the tourney ranked 18th in the nation by FloWrestling. She pinned 20th-ranked Hananeel Gregoire of Freedom in the championship match in one minute, 29 seconds.
Vilar lost in the blood round in this tournament last year and also lost in the blood round at region last season.
“I am probably most pleased with what I saw out of Alisha,” Bossardet said. “Last year, she did not place at this tournament, and then this year she wins it.”
Vilar, a junior, pinned Taylor Pelchat of St. Augustine in 1:10 in the 155-pound title match.
“I’ve been working hard throughout the summer to the start of the season to get to where I am now, so I’m pretty proud,” Vilar said. “This feels like a good start, but there’s still more work to do. My goal is to place at state.”
Calidonio placed fifth at state last season. She won a 4-2 decision over Savanah Nazario-Darnell of Viera in the 170-pound final.
“I’m glad I was able to finish off good. The beginning was not going my way,” Calidonio said.
Mills, a sophomore who moved up from 100 pounds to 120 this year, won three of
four matches and automatically won the third-place match because her opponent had already wrestled the maximum six matches for the day. The Bulldogs held Senior Night at the Flagler Rotary, because it is the only time the girls team is wrestling at home this season.
Bossardet said assistant coach TJ Gillin did another great job in running the tournament, which was slightly larger than last year’s field.
“I said this last year when we started this tournament: the goal is to have the largest, toughest tournament in the state of Florida, and do it the right way by giving them a first class event, and that’s what we’re striving to do,” Bossardet said. “People talk about growing girls wrestling. But I think it should be done the right way with quality over quantity. You (should) put a product out there and put an event out there that people want to come be a part of, and people want to see. That’s what’s going to grow the sport of wrestling.”
Alexa Calidonio (right) works on a wrist-lock in the 170-pound championship match.
Joslyn Johnson pinned Hananeel Gregoire of Orlando Freedom at 1:29 in the 105-pound final.
Alisha Vilar won the 155-pound championship match. Photos by Brent Woronoff
WHERE COTTON GROWS, SHADOWS LINGER
The Sound of the Whippoorwill is a moving memoir set in the postWWII deep south. It narrates the struggles of a fourth-generation white family on a cotton farm, wrestling with hard labor, mental illness, and child abuse. The narrative also explores the complex racial dynamics between the family and their black farm workers, delineating the stark inequities of a racially segregated society. A poignant exploration of resilience and the human spirit, it offers a profound reflection on cultural and social issues.
Paperback ISBN: 9798822984417
Mainland’s season ends
Christmas
Mainland wide receiver Chris Butler (7) runs between two Sharks for a first down
Above: Mainland quarterback Sebastian Johnson (10) passes under pressure. Left: Ponte Vedra’s Fionn Day (left) and Talan Baban tackle Mainland receiver Kadin Flores (15). Photos by Michele Meyers
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deceased, whose date of death was June 12, 2025, 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, 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 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 December 4, 2025.
Personal Representative: David M. Willink 624 Landshark Blvd. Daytona Beach, FL 32124
Attorney for Personal Representative: Cyrus Malhotra Florida Bar No. 0022751 THE MALHOTRA LAW FIRM P.A. 3903 Northdale Blvd., Suite 100E Tampa, FL 33624
Telephone: (813) 902-2119
Fax Number: (727)290-4044
Email: filings@FLprobatesolutions.com
Secondary: cortney@FLprobatesolutions.com December 4, 11, 2025 25-00613I
of Housing and Urban Development (Scott Turner) (the “Secretary”), by Assignment recorded April 18, 2023 in Official Records Book 8394, Page 3595, in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida; and WHEREAS, the Mortgage was insured by the Secretary pursuant to the National Housing Act for the purpose of providing single family housing; and WHEREAS, the Mortgage is now owned by the Secretary; and WHEREAS, a default has been made in the covenants and conditions of the Mortgage in that Mortgagor has either died, defaulted under the terms of the Mortgage or has abandoned the Property, hereinafter defined and the Mortgage remains wholly unpaid as of the date of this Notice and no payment has been made to restore the loan to current status; and NOTE: This Notice is being rerecorded solely to correct the sale date from 2025 to 2026. WHEREAS, the entire amount delinquent as of October 12, 2025 is $107,901.68 plus accrued unpaid interest, if any, late charges, if any, fees and costs; and WHEREAS, by virtue of this default, the Secretary has declared the entire amount of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage to be immediately due and payable; and
WHEREAS, the Unknown Spouse of Gladys L. Schwab, with a last known address of 112 Lacosta Lane, #116, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114 may claim some interest in the property hereinafter described, as the surviving spouse in possession of the property, but such interest is subordinate to the lien of the Mortgage of the Secretary; and WHEREAS, Unknown Tenant(s), with an address of may claim some interest in the property hereinafter described, as a/the tenant(s) in possession of the property, but such interest is subordinate to the lien of the Mortgage of the Secretary; and WHEREAS, Indigo Woods Condominium Association, Inc. with a last known address of 112 La Costa Lane, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114 may claim some interest in the property hereinafter described pursuant to that certain Declaration recorded in Official Records Book 2407, Page 782, as amended, of the Public Records of Volusia County, Florida but such interest is subordinate to the lien of the Mortgage of the Secretary; WHEREAS, the Secretary may have an interest in the property hereinafter described, pursuant to that Adjustable-Rate Home Equity Conversion Second Mortgage recorded October 13, 2008, in Official Records Book 6285, Page 1042, of the Public Records of Volusia County, Florida but such interest is subordinate to the lien of the Mortgage of the Secretary. NOW, THEREFORE, pursuant to powers vested in me by the Single Family Mortgage Foreclosure Act of 1994, 12 U.S.C. 3751 et seq., by 24 CFR part 27, subpart B, and by the Secretary’s designation of the undersigned as Foreclosure Commissioner, recorded on June 22, 2000 in Official Records Book 4563, Page 4679 of the Public Records of Volusia County, Florida, notice is hereby given that on January 7, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. local time, all real and personal property at or used in connection with the following described premises (the “Property”) will be sold at public auction to the highest bidder: THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA, COUNTY OF VOLUSIA, CITY OF DAYTONA BEACH, AND IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: THAT CERTAIN CONDOMINIUM PARCEL COMPOSED OF UNIT NO. 116, INDIGO WOODS EAST CONDOMINIUM, TOGETHER WITH AN UNDIVIDED PERCENTAGE INTEREST IN THE COMMON ELEMENTS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH AND SUBJECT TO COVENANTS, CONDITIONS, RESTRICTIONS, TERMS AND OTHER PROVISION OF THE DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM INDIGO WOODS EAST, A CONDOMINIUM, AS RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 2407, PAGE 782, AND ALL AMENDMENTS THERETO, ALL OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA Commonly known as: 112 Lacosta Lane, #116, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114
The sale will be held at 112 Lacosta Lane, #116, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114. The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will bid $107,901.68 together with accrued interest from October 12, 2025 (subject to increases applicable under the Note), plus all costs of this foreclosure and plus costs of an owner’s policy of title insurance or other sums which may be due. There will be no proration of taxes, rents or other income or liabilities, except that the purchaser will pay, at or before closing, his/her/its pro-rata share of any real estate taxes that have been paid by the Secretary to the date of the foreclosure sale. When making their bids, all bidders except the Secretary must submit a deposit totaling ten (10%) percent of the bid amount in the form of a certified check or cashier’s check made out to the Secretary of HUD. Each oral bid need not be accompanied by a deposit. If the successful bid is oral, a deposit of ten (10%) percent of the bid amount must be presented before the bidding is closed. The deposit is non-refundable.
