Educators lose dog and house in fire
Ormond community has raised $40,000. Jessica Kester teaches at DSC; Jason at Pine Trail Elementary.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
A GoFundMe to help two local educators after losing their dog in a house fire has raised almost $40,000.
Ormond Beach Fire Department crews responded to the Kester family home in Ormond Beach at around 10:19 a.m. on Saturday, March 28. Firefighters were able to knock down the fire, according to a Facebook post on the union page, and prevent it from spreading to neighboring homes on Windsail Circle. The home sustained significant smoke and fire damage.
The GoFundMe states the Kester family’s home is a total loss.
“The Kesters are a beloved
COPS CORNER
MARCH 22
GUNS IN THE PARK
4:40 p.m. — 2000 block of North Beach Street, Ormond Beach Culpable negligence, exposure to harm. A 22-year-old Jacksonville man was taken into ICE custody after he and a 24-year-old man were suspected of firing a BB gun in a negligent manner.
family and educators who are always looking to make a positive impact on our community,” the fundraiser states. “Now, they need our help.” Jessica Kester is an English professor at Daytona State College. Her husband Jason is
a fourth grade teacher at Pine Trail Elementary. In 2017, he was named Volusia County Schools Teacher of the Year, representing Mainland High School.
Want to help? Visit https:// gofund.me/f6bb012c9.
NEWS BRIEFS
Serial cigarette thief caught in Palm Coast, sheriff reports
Detectives in Flagler County Sheriff’s Office’s General Assignment Unit, with help from the Real Time Crime Center, identified a suspect in multiple cigarette thefts from Palm Coast gas stations as Derek Colamartino, 35, of Palm Coast, and arrested him, the FCSO reported.
In each incident, Colamartino acted as if he was going to pay. Then, he would make a “mad dash” for the door.
According to investigators, the most recent incident occurred Tuesday, March 24, at a RaceTrac located along State Road 100 near Seminole Woods Boulevard. Authorities say the same individual may be responsible for at least three separate thefts in the area.
Earlier thefts tied to the investigation include an incident at a Wawa store in Janu-
ary and another at a Circle K on March 22.
Daytona Beach airport back to normal after airfield breach
Airport operations are continuing as normal at Daytona Beach International Airport after a Holly Hill man crashed through a locked perimeter gate on Wednesday, March 25.
The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office arrested 58-yearold Bryan Parker after he crashed into the gate at a high rate of speed and drove onto the airfield towards the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University aircraft ramp, where the airport reported he tried to gain control to two aircraft.
In a press release, the airport states that Parker was retrained in less than 4 minutes from the time his vehicle crashed through the gate. All people and aircraft remain safe.
The perimeter fencing and gates “meet or exceed federal regulations for airport security,” the press release stated,
and designated airport staff and VSO deputies regularly patrol and inspect the airport’s perimeter fencing and gates.
Parker faces multiple state charges, including attempted aircraft piracy, burglary of conveyance, felony trespass, exposure of sexual organ, criminal mischief, DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to testing.
“We would like to commend the eyewitnesses who immediately called 911 to report the incident, and the air traffic controller who quickly reported the suspicious vehicle and took action to ensure the safety of airfield operations,” the airport stated in its press release. “We want to commend our airport operations agent and the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical security officer who immediately responded to the breach and subsequently chased the suspect on foot and helped detain him. Also, the Volusia Sheriff’s Office deputies who swiftly took the suspect into custody.” Send news tips to Jarleene Almenas at jarleene@ observerlocalnews.com.
The 24-year-old man was the only one seen by the victim to be holding a BB gun.
MARCH 24 SLIME CRIME
The men denied shooting at anything and initially claimed not to have a BB gun in their possession. The BB gun was later found hidden in a storage space inside one of their relatives’ cars.
8:30 p.m. — 200 block of North Nova Road, Ormond Beach Criminal mischief. A grocery store is pressing charges after two juvenile girls damaged almost $500 worth of merchandise. According to a police report, the juveniles were seen on surveillance footage opening products like glue, shampoo, shaving cream, petroleum
jelly and hair oil before taking them to the store’s baby aisle and spreading them all over the shelves. The pair were in the store for about a half hour before an adult told them something, at which point they left the store.
They only paid for items not used in the incident: heavy whipping cream, half and half creamer, and three deli items.
Two days later, the store manager recognized one of the juveniles — a 9-year-old Ormond Beach girl, who returned to the store with her grandmother.
The girl told police that she and her friend had been trying to make slime, and that they tried to clean it up, but
failed and left the store. The store manager told police the girls had been involved in a similar incident on March 15, resulting in $136 worth of damaged merchandise.
The girl was trespassed from the store and officers are working to make contact with the second girl.
LOST IN THE SAUCE
8:57 p.m. — 5000 block of State Road 100, Flagler County Disorderly intoxication. A Palm Coast man was arrested after he took a seat in a drug store employee’s car.
The employee called 911. When deputies arrived, they placed the suspect under
arrest and realized that he smelled strongly of alcohol and had difficulty staying upright.
The suspect told deputies he did have several drinks but did not know what city he was in, where he was at or how he got there, the report said.
After refusing medical treatment, the man was taken to the county jail.
MARCH 29
CAUGHT GUN-HANDED
11:40 a.m. — first block of Opossum Lane, Bunnell Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. A convicted felon from Ormond Beach was arrested for violating his parole when he went to a local
shooting range to shoot his gun.
Another person at the range, who knew the suspect was a convicted felon, reported the man to the local Sheriff’s Office. When deputies arrived, they found the suspect loading a magazine in one of the range’s shooting lanes, an arrest report said.
When deputies detained him, they found a Smith & Wesson hand gun and two magazines with 21 rounds of ammunition and a third magazine with 15 rounds of ammunition. He was arrested.
The suspect was convicted in 2022 in Volusia County for fleeing and eluding law enforcement.
The Kester family home sustained major fire and smoke damage.
Photo courtesy of Ormond Beach Professional Firefighters/ Facebook
A heroes’ memorial
never forgotten — and that they receive the honor and respect many didn’t see when they came home.
JARLEENE ALMENAS
MANAGING EDITOR
More than 50 years after the end of the Vietnam War, Volusia County celebrated the unveiling of a monument to make sure their legacy is
The Vietnam Memorial Wall, an effort led by U.S. Army veteran Robert “Bob” Adkins, of Ormond-by-theSea, was presented to the community during a ceremony on Friday, March 27.
The memorial wall is located at Veterans Memorial Plaza, at 125 E. Orange Ave. near the Volusia County Courthouse at City Island in Daytona Beach.
It’s a gray granite monument etched with scenes from the Vietnam Memorial Wall and Vietnam Women’s Memorial in Washington, D.C. It measures 8.5 feet wide and 5 feet high. It now stands on the north side of the plaza, with an inscription welcoming Vietnam veterans home.
Bringing the monument to fruition has been a ninemonth project, said Adkins, a past president of the Vietnam Veterans of America Daytona Beach Chapter 1048 who spearheaded the chapter’s $35,000 donation.
How did it start? With talks about legacy with his wife Cathy and family. Adkins was getting ready to turn over leadership of VVA Chapter, following 11 years of service
as its president.
“I said, ‘You know, this monument needs to be in Volusia County,” Adkins recalled. “We got a beautiful plaza that we’re going to put one in, and we sat down and we talked it out about how to go about this, and of course — everything that we talked about was wrong.”
They ran into challenge after challenge. Until he met Scott Olson, Volusia County Veterans Services director.
“He took this journey on with me and Cathy to make sure that this happened,” Adkins said. “He thought it was the greatest thing for this county that he could think of was having that monument placed here.”
The monument will serve as a “dignified and lasting tribute to all of our Vietnam veterans who paid the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today,” Olson said. It will also provide an educational opportunity in the community, he added.
“The Memorial Wall will contribute to preserving the historical legacy of the Vietnam War and ensuring that future generations understand its significance,” he said.
Volusia County Council atlarge member Jake Johansson, a veteran of the U.S. Navy, said that the Memorial Wall is a permanent reminder of the sacrifices of Vietnam veterans. And, he said, that their stories have a place in Volusia County.
“This wall will ensure that future generations understand what the Vietnam generation endured and what they gave in service to our nation,”
Johansson said. “It will stand here, not just as a monument of granite and stone, but as a place of reflection, remembrance and education for our entire community. Recognizing service also means ensuring veterans receive the support they deserve.”
Volusia County Council Chair Jeff Brower was also among the speakers at the ceremony, which included Florida Rep. Chase Tramont, Florida Sen. Tom Wright and Gen. James Hartsell, executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs. The unveiling ceremony, Brower said, is a “much needed celebration” for Volusia County.
“It’s a much needed time to say you weren’t given a proper homecoming,” Brower said.
“Today, you get that homecoming.”
He talked about growing up during the Vietnam War years — how fear and distrust of the U.S. government resulted in war veterans coming home to protests and public disdain.
“I want you to know today in Volusia County, that’s not how we think,” Brower said. “And I think that most of America, through the lens of history, have come to terms with that, and they respect you Vietnam veterans as much as every other veteran that sits in this beautiful place do. You earned that.
“You stood between bullets and liberty for us,” Brower continued. “You stood between bombs and napalm and freedom because you love this country. Because you love the families that you left behind and were willing to lay everything on the battlefield.
You are America’s heroes.”
“This wall will ensure that future generations understand what the Vietnam generation endured and what they gave in service to our nation. It will stand here, not just as a monument of granite and stone, but as a place of reflection, remembrance and education for our entire community. Recognizing service also means ensuring veterans receive the support they deserve.”
Volusia County unveils monument for Vietnam Veterans in Daytona Beach.
Volusia County Council Chair Jeff Brower speaks during the ceremony.
Nurses Ruth Brewster and Boris Jones-Pilcher are recognized during the ceremony. Brewster was an Army nurse during the Vietnam War. Jones-Pilcher took care of many Vietnam veterans during her nursing career.
The Vietnam Memorial Wall. Photos by Jarleene Almenas
Denim Warren looks back at Gen. James Hartsell, executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs, as he walks away.
Rick Minor, of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1048 honor guard bows his head.
Scott Olson, Volusia County Veterans Services director
Volusia County Councilman Jake Johansson presents Bob Adkins, past president of the Vietnam Veterans of America Daytona Beach Chapter 1048, with a proclamation
JAKE JOHANSSON, Volusia County Councilman
Ormond Beach’s new employee benefits broker: Foundation Risk Partners
Commissioner Harold Briley praised Foundation Risk Partners’ ‘creativity and innovation.’
24, officials heard proposals from FRP and The Gehring Group (which merged with Brown & Brown). This happened after commissioners tabled the selection of a broker last August, expressing an interest to switch, before ultimately deciding to extend its current contract with Brown and Brown in September as staff cited a need for more time to rebid the contract.
“For several years, we’ve had a good provider,” Commissioner Harold Briley said. “But one thing I hear from Foundation Risk Partners is creativity and innovation.” Brown and Brown served
as the city’s broker for over 17 years, but due to the merger, going with the Gehring Group would have meant they were also going with a new broker.
Two commissioners will abstain from the future vote: Commissioner Travis Sargent works for Foundation Risk Partners and Deputy Mayor Lori Tolland’s son works for the same company.
Last year, commissioners had questioned a broker fee disparity between the two companies. Brown and Brown proposed a fee of $50,000 and FRP proposed $99,102.
FRP’s fee remained the same in its latest proposal for
the city’s five-year contract.
The Gehring Group proposed a $75,000 annual fee for the first three years, with fees of $77,250 for the fourth year and $79,500 for the final year of the contract. The Gehring Group proposed a three-year agreement, with options to renew for two additional years.
“I know there may be a disparity in the fees, but if we can realize savings within that five-year period, it may be worth it to do it,” Briley said, speaking about switching to FRP. “I’ll just say that I think there’s opportunities for the city to be able to save money and still provide qual-
ity service.”
Commissioner Kristin Deaton said she’s spoken to 26 city employees in different departments and that the majority wanted to see change in the management of benefit plans.
“I’m going based solely on what the employees told me,” Deaton said. “This is their insurance.”
Mayor Jason Leslie inquired about whether the city has looked into going to a selfinsurance model.
Assistant City Manager Claire Whitley said it had been discussed in the past as the city looked at its strategic health care plan, but the com-
mission didn’t direct staff to go in that direction.
“Doing self-insurance would require switching our carrier, and that was not something we were interested in at that time,” Whitley said. “So that was one of the reasons, among others, why we didn’t pursue self-funding.”
Leslie was the only one of the three voting commissioners who said he wanted to go with The Gehring Group.
“If I was looking at this as an individual shopping for insurance, I’m going to go with whoever is going to provide the same level of services, but at a lower cost,” he said.
Ormond again rejects $2.3M Avalon Park settlement offer, despite lawsuit
The offer was similar to the one considered in December, ‘but with additional onerous conditions,’ staff said.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
The Ormond Beach City Commission has once again rejected a $2.3 million settlement offer in the ongoing lawsuit regarding Avalon Park, even as the developer and the City of Daytona Beach have taken the matter to federal court.
The commission voted 4-1 to reject a renewed proposal by Avalon Park and Daytona Beach during a special meeting on Tuesday, March 31. Commissioner Travis Sargent voted against.
The proposal was essentially the same as the one brought before them for con-
sideration back in December, “but with additional onerous conditions,” according to a staff report. One such condition, as stated in the resolution to deny, is “to not raise any challenge to Avalon’s future development, including its land use applications, comprehensive plan amendments, permits or requested exemptions regardless of their lawfulness or impacts on the Ormond Beach community.”
If the commission had accepted the settlement offer, a 2006 interlocal agreement — which gives Ormond the right to provide water and wastewater services at a wholesale rate to Avalon Park — would have been partially terminated, impacting all property located west of I-95 within the city limits of Daytona and future parcels the developer wishes to incorporate.
The interlocal agreement was the result of a previous lawsuit between Ormond and
Daytona.
“For nearly 20 years, from 2006 to 2023, Daytona Beach never objected to or raised concerns regarding the comprehensive settlement agreement and release of claims that had been mutually negotiated, drafted, approved, and subsequently ratified and affirmed,” the city staff report states. “Importantly, Daytona Beach never claimed that Ormond Beach violated the comprehensive settlement agreement. In fact, Ormond Beach has consistently indicated that it is ready, willing, and able to comply with the comprehensive settlement agreement.”
Four people spoke at the special City Commission meeting, including Coleen McMahon and Jennifer Bright, who are running for Ormond Beach City Commission to represent Zone 1 and 2, respectively. McMahon and Bright questioned how the
city found itself in litigation.
Avalon Park sued the city of Ormond Beach in December 2024, accusing it of refusing or failing to provide utility services, alleging that the city doesn’t have the present ability or capacity to provide water and wastewater services to Avalon Park.
According to the resolution to deny the settlement, Ormond Beach has constructed over $4.5 million in improvements to its potable water and wastewater utility system, in anticipation of providing utilities to Daytona in the service area. This service area was part of the 2006 agreement, which also led to the annexation of 3,000 acres by Daytona Beach at Ormond’s western border. This land will now become Avalon Park Daytona Beach, a development of almost 8,000 homes.
The resolution states that Daytona rejected Ormond’s request to engage in a gov-
ernmental conflict resolution process and instead chose to pursue the lawsuit with Avalon Park.
“Daytona Beach does not want to comply with its financial obligations to Ormond Beach, and Avalon does not want to incur the expense of connecting utility lines to Ormond Beach and Daytona Beach’s utility systems that will serve the entire development,” the city staff report states.
On March 10, Avalon Park sent the city of Ormond a written notice and demand letter regarding an alleged federal takings claim.
On March 26, the developer filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court Middle District of Florida. The lawsuit states that “Ormond’s regulatory actions all have the same goal — to prevent any development of the Plaintiffs’ property. These actions are taken pursuant to a plan Ormond has described in its internal documents, namely, that prolonged litigation over utility capacity will carry out its political agenda that it simply does not want development of this land.”
The developer’s attorney, Todd Norman, of Nelson Mullins, further argues that Ormond’s actions have resulted in a regulatory taking as the city’s “adverse statements and threats” that Daytona is prohibited from providing utilities have resulted in Avalon Park being unable to complete final engineering plans and a final plat for the first phase of the development. The lawsuit states that the city has cost Avalon Park $50 million, a figure associated with purchasing the property and pursuing the development for the past five years. It’s asking the courts to award damages for just compensation to Avalon Park, including attorneys’ fees.
Ormond inventor wins Volusia Innovation Challenge, takes home $10K
Steve Lofvers is the inventor of TarpBags, reusable, water-fillable ballast bags to secure emergency roof tarps.
OBSERVER STAFF
An Ormond Beach inventor took home the top prize at the second annual Volusia Innovation Challenge, held on March 25 at the Ocean Center.
Steve Lofvers’ invention of TarpBags — non-destructive, reusable, water-fillable ballast bags that secure emergency roof tarps without nails or any roof-penetrating fasteners — won the compe-
tition’s $10,000 cash prize and one year of workspace and mentoring at the Volusia Innovation Hub to help build his venture.
“I am grateful for this incredible opportunity and proud to be part of a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem here in Volusia County,” Lofvers said in a press release. “The Innovation Challenge is an amazing initiative that truly highlights the ingenuity and creativity of the business community.”
Arjun Menon, of Daytona Beach, and Jadyn Fulcher, of Palm Coast, won second place and a $5,000 prize for Tracker, a toolbox inventory accountability system featuring an intuitive interface that
delivers real-time tool use and status analytics.
ALSO COMPETING WERE:
Nathan Browning and Killian Embler, of Daytona Beach — developers of Embler Control Systems educational flight computers, which serve as powerful data recorders for model rockets
Jacob Fleming, Ryan Flournoy, and Kevin Sullivan of JRK Supplements, of Port Orange — developers of “Fruit Fuze,” an energyboosting snack food alternative to energy supplements and drinks
Maryam Khazraee, of Ormond Beach — founder and developer of Health Allied Exam Prep, a company that provides an end-to-end
judges. Attendees were able to vote for “Best of” awards across four categories: business and household products; community, nutrition, education and welfare; digital apps, programs and platforms; and science, technology and engineering. Each category winner received a $500 prize.
The competition’s “Best of Show” award, which came with a $2,000 prize, went to LEAF Alliance, an organization that unifies legal, emotional, and financial experts through proprietary data, specialized training, and a vetted professional directory to help individuals confront cases of legal abuse.
career support platform for allied health professionals
Dr. Brenton Kinker, of Daytona Beach — an ER doctor and inventor of Suture Gun, a mechanical suturing device that reduces procedure time and improves efficacy
The county reports that almost 300 people attended the competition to cheer on six finalists who pitched their inventions and business concepts to a panel of
“This year’s Volusia Innovation Challenge further reinforces our commitment to celebrating entrepreneurship and showcasing the innovation happening right here in Volusia County,” said Brian Rademacher, chair of the Volusia Innovation Challenge organizing team and Ormond Beach economic development director. “It was amazing to see the strong caliber of business ideas showcased, while also providing entrepreneurs, mentors, and community partners the opportunity to connect, collaborate, and leverage meaningful net-
Ormond Beach mayor Jason Leslie files for reelection
The mayor has exited the District 29 Florida House race to vie for a second term on the City Commission.
JARLEENE ALMENAS
MANAGING EDITOR
Ormond Beach Mayor Jason Leslie is exiting the race for District 29 in the Florida House and instead will seek reelection.
Leslie formally announced his withdrawal from his state
NEWS BRIEFS
MOAS closes doors, begins transformation into The Brown The Museum of Arts and Sciences closed its doors at 5 p.m. on Sunday, March 29, signaling the beginning of a new era as the museum works to transform into the The Cici & Hyatt Brown Museum of Art, Science & History, also to be known as The Brown.
campaign and start of his mayoral campaign in a press release. He filed for reelection on March 27.
“Serving Ormond Beach has been the honor of my life,” Leslie said in the press release. “I came in as an outsider — not part of the establishment — and from day one, my focus has been strengthening public safety, growing our economy, upgrading storm drains and other infrastructure, enhancing outdoor recreation, increasing transparency, and continuing to make this a wonderful place to live. We’ve made real prog-
According to a press release, the museum saw an “outpouring of community support, with visitors returning to walk the galleries, revisit favorite exhibits, and share memories built over generations” in the final days leading up to the closure.
“This moment is both deeply meaningful and incredibly energizing,” said Tabitha Schmidt, CEO of the museum. “We are closing our buildings to the public — but we are not stepping away from our mission. In fact, this is what allows us to move forward in a way that honors our past while building something extraordinary for the future.”
ress. But we’ve also seen how major pending issues, like the proposed development of the old Tomoka golf course, can quickly impact our community. I’m running to continue being a strong voice for residents, being active and available, and to keep us moving in the right direction — finding smarter solutions that reduce or eliminate impacts from development that doesn’t fit our community.”
Leslie is a native of New Jersey. He has lived in Ormond Beach for over five years and currently owns commercial real estate and an e-com -
The closure will allow the museum to begin a collections project — a comprehensive inventory of more than 30,000 objects in its care, to be completed over the coming months by the museum’s curatorial team. This includes cataloging, photographing, completing detailed condition reports, packing and custom crating each piece.
“This is the kind of work that happens behind the scenes but is foundational to everything a museum does,” Schmidt said. “It ensures that our collections are not only protected, but also better understood, more accessible, and ready to be experienced
merce business. He was elected mayor of Ormond Beach in 2024. According to his press release, Leslie’s reelection campaign will focus on the following issues: smart growth to protect the city’s character, including improvements to the land development code; public safety and storm readiness; traffic and infrastructure solutions, including flooding mitigation; environmental protection and public health; and “open, responsive local government that listens to residents’ concerns, delivers results the community
in new and meaningful ways when we reopen.”
The transformation project includes the construction of a new building along Nova Road, which will connect to the existing Cici & Hyatt Brown Museum of Art. The project will also incorporate access to Tuscawilla Preserve.
While the museum’s buildings are closed to daily public admission, programming will continue through partnerships with organizations including Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, the Ocean Center, and the Daytona Beach Shores Community Center.
The first of these programs
works. We will continue to build on this year’s success and look forward to what’s possible for the Innovation Challenge in 2027.”
Lou Paris, director of Volusia County’s Economic Development Division, said in the press release that while the challenge is structured as a pitch competition, “its true value lies in creating a platform where entrepreneurs can showcase their ideas, receive meaningful feedback, and connect with the resources needed to launch and grow their businesses.”
“This event plays a direct role in fostering business creation and expansion in our community,” Paris said. “The question is not whether the Volusia Innovation Challenge will produce successful businesses, but how many it will generate, and how big those businesses will grow.”
The Volusia Innovation Challenge is organized by Volusia Business Resources, a collaborative partnership of local government and private organizations designed to support small businesses. The challenge is designed to connect local entrepreneurs with the resources, visibility and funding.
expects, and includes a charter review.”
“We work for the residents — plain and simple,” Leslie said. “My work here isn’t done. We’ve faced challenges as a commission, and there have been missteps along the way, but we learn, adapt, and keep moving forward together. Residents have asked me to stay, and I’m committed to continuing to serve the community I truly care about. This campaign will be powered by a grassroots effort — supported by people, not special interests.”
will take place on April 21 at the Daytona Beach Shores Community Center, featuring Senior Curator of History Zach Zacharias, who will present a look at Audubon art by exploring the artistry, intrigue, and unexpected stories behind one of the most iconic names in American natural history.
“This is just the beginning,” Schmidt said. “We are taking the museum into the community in new ways, meeting people where they are, and continuing to deliver the experiences and learning opportunities they expect from us.”
The Lohman Planetarium will remain active, offering select ticketed events. The museum is also introducing a monthly Member Meet-up series to bring supporters of the museum together for behindthe-scenes experiences and updates.
“This is not a pause. It’s a pivot,” Schmidt said. “We are building something that will serve this community for generations to come. And we invite everyone to be part of that journey.” For more information on the construction project, visit moasfuture.org. For community programs and Planetarium events, visit thebrownmuseum.org.
Ormond Beach Mayor Jason Leslie speaks during the 2025 State of the City address on Tuesday, Oct. 14. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
Volusia County’s economic development staff.
Steve Lofvers, inventor of TarpBags, won first place at the second annual Volusia Innovation Challenge. Photo courtesy of Volusia County
‘A
vital resource’ for health care: New Daytona Beach free clinic opens
Flagler Free Clinic
Executive Director Terri Belletto said there is a growing need for affordable care.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Daytona Beach’s new free clinic is open for business at 825 Derbyshire Road.
The Hope Community Health Center will fill a gap in the health care services in Daytona Beach, co-director Dr. Rehana Saddiqui and Malik will be the co-directors cutting, Malik said the goal of the health center is to provide
Power of the Purse Flagler County
cannot afford private insurance or regular medical care.
- Garden of Giving Soirée -
Thursday, April 9
The Flagler Free Clinic treated 1,800 unique patients in 2025, providing over 6,000 care visits. The clinic is open Monday through Thursday and provides not only primary care but specialist care as well, including eye care, podiatry, oncology, dental services and more.
at the ribbon cutting that they still are raising funds for the Health Center’s $100,000 endowment funds.
Saddiqui and a colleague have each pledged $25,000 to the fund, getting the endowment halfway to the finish line. The endowment, he said, will be enough to fund the clinic “in perpetuity.”
Belletto said that despite the greater demand, the Flagler Free Clinic does not turn away qualifying patients. With the new Daytona Beach Health Center open, she said patients who live in that area may be referred to the clinic because it is closer, but their clinic does not turn people away.
That is in part because the Flagler clinic does not have any residency or employment requirements. Around 10% of the Flagler clinic’s patients are from Volusia County, Belletto said, and small numbers from surrounding counties.
“People who need health care are desperate for health care, and we’re here to help people access care,” she said. “We just want to help as many people as we possibly can.”
Dr. Mussarat Saddiqui, the husband of Health Clinic Director Dr. Rehana Siddiqui, spearheaded the fundraising for the clinic. He announced
“Going forward, this is only the beginning,” Saddiqui said. “We will be expanding the services to see the needy people of the community are taken care of, irrespective of religions, caste, colors and language.”
Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry announced at the ribbon cutting that he will ask the city manager and the city commission to appropriate $10,000 from the city to the Health Center for the endowment.
This clinic, he said, is a vital resource to the community.
“I want to say to each of you today,” Henry said, “how grateful we, as a city, are to have you, the Islamic community, taking such great leadership in such a great and important role in our community.”
As word about the Health Center gets out, Belletto said, the team may see their endowment needs increase, too, just to be able to care for the number of patients that come to their door.
“They’re going to be inundated,” Belletto said. As the need in the community expands, so, too, does the need for volunteer providers and for donors, she said. Free clinics like Flagler’s and the Health Center survive on grants and donations, Belletto said, as they receive no state funding for operations. The Flagler Free Clinic has an operating budget of around $400,000, 95% goes straight into patient services. Free clinic services treat a gap in care that most people do not discuss. When people hear the political talk about health care, Belletto said, the focus is on reducing insurance costs. But others, including seniors, can’t afford insurance at all.
“You don’t hear about people that will never be able to afford insurance,” she said.
“And there’s a lot of them in our community.”
The need continues to grow. In 2025, the Flagler Free Clinic added 800 new patients. And recently, she said, the clinic broke its internal record, adding almost 70 new patients in January alone, after federal health care subsidies expired.
“Even working people with decent jobs cannot afford their company provided insurance anymore,” Belletto said. “The need just keeps increasing.”
Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry and Volusia County Councilman Matt Reinhart attended the free clinic grand opening.
Daytona Beach leaders and leaders of the Islamic Center cut the ribbon celebrating the Hope Community Health Center. Photos by Sierra Williams
Dr. Rehana Siddiqui is the director of the new Health Center.
No Kings, from the lens of a rally organizer
‘There was an unmistakable sense that people wanted to stand together.’
SUZANNE MCCARTHY
GUEST WRITER
By 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 28, half an hour before the rally was scheduled to begin, people were already gathering at the west side of the Granada Bridge at Granada Boulevard and Beach Street in Ormond Beach.
I had expected people to arrive early because they had at the previous rally. As the intersection quickly filled,
I felt encouraged to see the morning unfolding just as we had hoped.
By 10 a.m., protesters lined all four corners. The crowd stretched down Granada Boulevard and up the bridge. We organizers estimated the crowd at 650 to 700 people — noticeably larger than the previous protest, which drew about 500.
What stood out most to me was not just the size of the crowd, but its mood.
The atmosphere was joyful. There were people of all ages in the crowd, from families with children to older residents who said they had been politically active for decades. It reminded me of the previous No Kings rally in Ormond Beach on Oct. 18. Despite the larger turnout this time, the atmosphere was remarkably similar: friendly, supportive and hopeful.
Many had attended the earlier rally as well. Others had driven from out of town.
I spoke with people visiting from Wisconsin and Buffalo, New York, who said they felt compelled to be there. People smiled at strangers, complimented signs and shared why they had come.
There was an unmistakable sense that people wanted to stand together. I spoke with a couple who had arrived from
out of state for vacation the night before and were grateful to be able to attend the rally.
Organizers circulated through the crowd, passing out “Know Your Rights” cards, free water and sunscreen. The morning grew hotter as the rally went on, but people looked out for one another. When a street preacher began causing a disturbance, organizers deescalated the situation before it grew into something larger.
Compared with the last protest, there was also less hostility from passing drivers. At the earlier rally, rude comments from cars had been common. This time, there
Palm Coast holds two ‘No Kings’ protests
Over 1,600 people gathered in Palm Coast on Saturday, March 28, to participate in two “No Kings” protests, part of a nationwide demonstration that drew crowds into cities to voice their opposition to the Trump administration.
One rally took place near State Road 100 and Belle Terre Parkway, while a second was held at the intersection of Old Kings Road and Palm Coast Parkway. More than 3,000 protests were planned across the country Saturday. The demonstrations mark the third round of nationwide “No Kings” protests since the movement launched on President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday in 2025. Participants were protesting issues such as immigration raids and the U.S. military involvement in Iran. Many in attendance also pointed to rising gas prices due to the ongoing conflict with Iran.
SYDNEY TEVIN
—
were few negative reactions. Instead, supportive honks, waves and shouted encouragement came steadily from traffic passing through the intersection. I also did not observe any counter-protesters.
The rally remained peaceful throughout the two-hour event.
The signs and conversations carried a common message. Again and again, people said they felt the need to speak out against President
Why I voted yes — even though I don’t want 254 homes either
Now that it has been a week since the Ormond Beach City Commission’s final vote on Tomoka Oaks, I want to take a minute to further explain my rationale for my final vote. I have heard from hundreds of residents, many of whom are friends, expressing their disappointment.
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Publisher Brian McMillan, brian@observerlocalnews.com
Managing Editor Jarleene Almenas, jarleene@observerlocalnews.com
Associate Editor Brent Woronoff, brent@observerlocalnews.com
Most importantly, I want to make it clear that I have never been and will never be thrilled with 254 new homes on the golf course property. My track record shows my passion for protecting our city’s neighborhoods and green spaces. I appreciate the input and feedback I’ve received on this issue and respect every opinion you have shared with me. I certainly understand your frustration and anger, so let me explain. We were making our decision as a commission with a virtual gun to our heads. The looming state and federal lawsuits were not going Ormond Beach’s way. We were limited in time due to a pending settlement date. Prior to the meeting, I did do my due diligence regarding the federal case and the ability for the developer to indeed
place over three hundred homes in the butterfly space. I confirmed that the developer will be required to perform extensive soil testing and “clean up” if needed, which is part of the permitting process from the Department of Environmental Protection. I confirmed that the traffic study will be updated accordingly. We approved the settlement of 254 homes to avoid a disastrous outcome for all. Anyone who reads the federal court file, was briefed on the depositions, and reads the judge’s rulings to date realizes that defeat was likely. And the outcome would have affected all Ormond residents, not just those in Tomoka Oaks.
Our legal defeat would cost all our residents, doubling most property tax bills. You read that correctly — the average property tax bill in
our city JUST for your city tax portion — would increase by an average of over $500 according to our finance department. I was not willing to jeopardize the finances of all residents, many of whom are on fixed incomes, in what I considered a lose-lose situation.
Then, on top of that, the outcome would have still allowed this developer to build, only with even more homes and an alarming 6-foot setback on each property, including the perimeter. These outcomes, unfortunately, left me with no other logical choice. I care deeply about Tomoka Oaks, but for the reasons above, I could not in good conscience take the high risk “gamble.”
On a personal note, I have served our community for over 35 years. I serve with
integrity, accountability, and honesty and at times must make the hard, unpopular decision on the dais. I have lost friendships and have had threats made against my campaign for mayor over this vote.
I’ve read every comment that’s been sent to me, for better or for worse. I will continue to appreciate you, regardless of how you felt about the issue and whether you’ll continue to support me. Before he was president, Ronald Reagan often said, “The person who agrees with you 80% of the time is a friend and an ally, not a 20% traitor.”
Whether you continue to support or not, I will always value your input and hope that together we can continue to work to make Ormond Beach the wonderful place it is to live, work, and raise our families. I love our city and always will.
CORRECTIONS
Donald Trump, Republicans in Congress and the MAGA movement. Many expressed fear about the direction of the country and said they believed democracy itself is at stake. But even with that urgency, the dominant feeling was not anger, but determination. People talked about the need to work together, to keep showing up and to make their voices heard. For two hours on a Saturday morning, the corners of Granada and Beach became more than an intersection. They became a place where hundreds of people, many of whom had never met, stood side by side and reminded each other that they were not alone.
Protest numbers keep rising
Dear Editor:
Flagler County participated in the third “No Kings” protest of March 28 with an estimated turnout of around 1,600. With momentum growing, that’s close to a double increase over the last October rally, suggesting a substantial heightened awareness and concern about our country’s direction. The local raw numbers may not appear to be very significant, but considering Flagler is viewed politically as “red as a baboon’s behind,” it’s noteworthy.
With the latest nationwide protest turnout numbers estimated at 8 million, a million more than June 2025, and the largest of its kind in U.S. history, it’s interesting to look at a broader perspective. Given a U.S. population of 349 million, it now means 1 out of 50 folks in the entire country showed up.
Protesters on State Road 100 in Palm Coast. Photo by Sydney Tevin
Protesters in Ormond Beach attend the third No Kings rally. Photo by Suzanne McCarthy
Protesters in Ormond Beach attend the third No Kings rally. Photo by Suzanne McCarthy
Protesters at State Road 100 and Belle Terre Parkway on March 28. Photo by Sydney Tevin
Protesters at Daytona Beach City Hall. Courtesy photo
Excellence Defined by Results
RYAN
YOUR NEIGHBORS
‘Oh, wouldn’t it be loverly?’
Daytona Playhouse presents ‘My Fair Lady’. Chelsea Conard stars as Eliza Doolittle in the musical.
SUZANNE MCCARTHY CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The Daytona Playhouse’s production of “My Fair Lady” opened on Friday, March 27.
The show is directed by Daniel Mills, of Ormond-bythe-Sea, with musical direction by Melissa Cargile and choreography by Ashley King. The production features a full cast, orchestra and periodinspired staging. Chelsea Conard stars as Eliza Doolittle alongside Curt Knupp as Professor Henry Higgins.
The musical follows a Cockney flower seller who undergoes a transformation under Higgins’ guidance and features well-known songs including “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly,” “The Rain in Spain,” and “I Could Have Danced All Night.”
Daytona Playhouse president Kathy Thompson said the production was inspired by a personal connection to the show.
“My interest in musical theater was from when my dad, a
Navy pilot, flew to London and saw the original production with Julie Andrews, and he bought the cast recording and played it over and over,” she said. “When we were choosing shows, I thought, ‘Nobody has done “My Fair Lady” around here’ — our patrons will love it.”
Thompson also plays the role of Mrs. Higgins in the musical.
Mills, the director, first came to the Daytona Playhouse about six years ago to help build sets. He then submitted his theatre resume — Mills has a bachelor’s degree in
theater from the University of Southern Maine with a focus in directing — and was asked to direct “The Drowsy Chaperone” in 2022. He has directed every spring musical since then: “Urinetown,” “Bonnie and Clyde,” “Something Rotten” and now, “My Fair Lady.”
Mills spends his winters in Ormond-by-the-Sea and summers in Bar Harbor, Maine, where he and his wife Joan run the Chiltern Inn Bed and Breakfast.
Haven’t gotten a chance to see the musical? “My Fair Lady” will grace the playhouse stage on April 2, 3, 4, 10 and 11 at 7:30 p.m., with matinee performances on April 5 and 12 at 2 p.m. The
Daytona Playhouselocated at 100 Jessamine Blvd. Tickets are available through the box office.
Managing Editor Jarleene Almenas contributed to this story.
Cast members rehearse a musical number.
Chelsea Conard stars as Eliza Doolittle in the Daytona Playhouse production of “My Fair Lady.” Photo by Suzanne McCarthy
The ensemble cast of “My Fair Lady” during dress rehearsal.
Dee Oatway, Khloë Perez-Mathis, Beth Kingsbury, Jenna Blaine and Laura Buckley rehearse a musical number. Timothy Akers, Chelsea Conard and Curt Knupp rehearse a musical number.
Timothy Akers as Colonel Pickering and Kathy Thompson as Mrs. Higgins
The orchestra warms up for the dress rehearsal.
Cast members of “My Fair Lady” perform a dress rehearsal at Daytona Playhouse.
LOCAL EVENTS
THURSDAY, APRIL 2
FILM SCREENING:
‘JURASSIC WORLD
REBIRTH’
When: 6-8 p.m.
Where: Madorsky Theater at the Daytona State College campus, Hosseini Center, 1200 W. International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach
Details: Free.
ARTS VOCO AWARDS
CELEBRATION
When: 6 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center, 399 N.
U.S. 1, Ormond Beach
Details: Attend the Arts VoCo Awards Celebration, the signature recognition event of the countywide Arts VoCo Season of the Arts. The celebration features live performances, award presentations, and special keynote moments. The event will begin with a cocktail-style dinner reception. The awards program will begin at 7:15 p.m. Tickets cost $55. Visit ormondbeach performingartscenter.csstix. com.
FRIDAY, APRIL 3
FIRST FRIDAY GARDEN WALK
When: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Washington Oaks Gardens State Park,6400 N. Oceanshore Blvd., Palm Coast
Details: No registration necessary; the walk is included with the park’s entry fees. Meet at garden parking lot.
DAYTONA BEACH ARTWALK
When: 5-9 p.m.
Where: 100-200 block of Beach Street, Daytona Beach
Details: Downtown Daytona Beach invites the community to stroll along Beach Street every first Friday of each month to enjoy ArtWalk. Meet artists, enjoy refreshments and visit local galleries.
FREE FAMILY ART NIGHT
When: 5:30-7 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Create a mixed media tulip basket. Free program. All art supplies provided. All ages welcome.
SATURDAY, APRIL 4
EASTER PARTY AND EGG HUNT
When: 10 a.m.
Where: Tomoka United Methodist Church, 1000 Old Tomoka Road, Ormond Beach
Details: Tomoka United Methodist Church will host a free Easter Party and Egg Hunt for children in preschool through fifth grade. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Activities will include a snack, storytime, games, coloring and a visit by the Easter Bunny with photo opportunities. Children will be divided into three age groups for the egg hunt.
SECOND ANNUAL ITALIAN FESTIVAL
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Flagler County Fairgrounds, 150 Sawgrass Road, Bunnell
Details: Family Life Center, in partnership with the City of Bunnell, is hosting this festival. Proceeds will benefit survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault. Food, live music, games and activities. $1 per person. Children under 12 are free. Visit https://flcfv. org/italian-festival.
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.
EGGCEPTIONAL EGG HUNT
When: 10:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Where: Calvary Christian Center, 1687 W. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Special needs egg hunt. Sign up at CalvaryFL. link/eggceptional2026 to choose a time slot.
‘MEAN GIRLS’ When: 2-4 p.m.
Where: News-Journal Center, 221 N. Beach St., Daytona Beach
Details: See this production by DSC Theatre. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12 and for Volusia and Flagler County students. Event is free for DSC students, faculty and staff with a college ID.
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.
CELEBRATING CELINE!
When: 7 p.m.
Where: Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center, 5500 E. Highway 100, Palm Coast
Details: Experience the magic of Celine Dion in this tribute production featuring Jenene Caramielo. Tickets cost $54$64. Visit flaglerentertain ment.com.
TUESDAY, APRIL 7
PIANO MEN: GENERATIONS
When: 7 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center, 399 N. U.S. 1, Ormond Beach Details: See this father-son duo and band perform this concert that promises to be a rollercoaster of iconic hits. Tickets cost $40-$60. Visit ormondbeachperformin gartscenter.csstix.com.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8
MR. & MISS SEABREEZE 2026
When: 7 p.m.
Where: Seabreeze High
School auditorium, 2700 N. Oleander Ave., Daytona Beach
Details: Attend this annual competition at Seabreeze High School, where one male and female junior will be crowned Mr. and Miss Seabreeze 2026-2027. Tickets cost $11. Visit bit.ly/4s4mC2k.
AARP MEETING
When: 10 a.m. to Noon
Where: Ormond Beach
Unitarian Universalist Church, 56 N. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach
Details: This month’s guest speaker will be Jeff Boyle, who will speak about local government issues. Public invited. $5 optional light lunch. Call Boyle at 386-341-9013.
‘FROM GEORGE WASHINGTON TO FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT: AN AMERICAN LANDSCAPE’
When: 11:15-12:15 p.m.
Where: Anderson-Price Memorial Building, 42 N. Beach St., Ormond Beach
Details: The Cherry Laurel Garden Club is hosting a free lecture honoring America’s 250th anniversary. Guest speaker Roy Young will talk about historic preservation and landscape design at Fallingwater and Mount Vernon. RSVP to andreahoy@cfl. rr.com by Friday, April 3.
THURSDAY, APRIL 9
HALIFAX GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY MEETING
When: 1:30 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach
Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach
Details: This is the monthly meeting of the Halifax Genealogical Society. All are welcome. This month’s topic is “Cecilia Dougherty Memorial Presentation: DNA and Indirect Evidence,” presented by Irene Sheridan.
ART OF HEALING WORKSHOP
When: 2-3:30 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: This workshop focuses on self-expression, growth and relaxation, often with a meditative component. Appropriate for all artistic skill levels. No art experience is necessary and all supplies are provided. Free program but registration is required. Visit www.ormondartmuseum.org/ classes-programs.
FRIDAY, APRIL 10
COFFEE AND CONVERSATIONS WITH PALM COAST CITY MANAGER
When: 9-10 a.m.
Where: Panera Bread, 5880 State Route 100, Palm Coast Details: The City of Palm Coast invites residents to grab a cup of coffee with City Manager Mike McGlothlin. Free event. Registration required. Visit www.parksandrec.fun.
For full listings, visit the calendar at observerlocalnews. com.
FOCUS ON FAITH
to you by:
First United Methodist of Ormond holds Easter egg hunt
On Saturday, March 28, First United Methodist Church of Ormond Beach hosted an Easter egg hunt at Beachside Elementary School.
About 175 children with 125 adults registered. Additionally, there were 52 volunteers and staff, totaling about 350 people total.
“It’s important for the neighbors, the children, and the community, and for celebrating the resurrection of Jesus,” said Tony Iorlano, First United Methodist Church volunteer.
Following registration, each child received an Easter bag filled with tickets to play games or make crafts, an Easter egg hunt chapstick, pencils and crayons, an Easter bandana, paper for a scavenger hunt and a coloring activity book.
“The Easter Egg Hunt is always one of my favorite events First United gets to host,” said Caitlin Booth, First United Methodist Church director of Children’s Ministries. “Being at Beachside allows us to reach more than just the families that attend on Sunday mornings. It allows us to make connections in the community and with the Beachside families. Being
Easter: When hope rises again
The following is an excerpt from a column by Father Jose Panthaplamthottiyil, of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, in Palm Coast:
Long before the coming of Jesus Christ, human beings tried to understand the mystery of life, death, and what lies beyond. In their longing, they created stories, echoes of a hope planted deep within the human heart.
One such story comes from ancient Greek mythology, the story of Persephone. She was the beloved daughter of Demeter, the goddess of the harvest. One day, Persephone was taken into the underworld by Hades. Her mother searched for her in anguish, and in her grief, the earth
itself became barren. Crops failed, flowers withered, and the world entered a season of lifelessness.
But the story does not end there. After a time, Persephone is allowed to return. When she comes back from the underworld, her mother rejoices, and the earth bursts into life again.
Flowers bloom, trees regain their leaves, and warmth returns. The Greeks used this story to explain the changing seasons, winter giving way to spring, but beneath it lies something deeper: a human intuition that life can return.
Across cultures and centuries, these stories express a universal hope: that death is not the end, that something new can emerge even from loss and destruction. And yet, these are only stories, beautiful, poetic, but imagined.
able to share God’s love in a unique way and watching how God works through the egg hunt is truly amazing. Even more amazing that the rain held off until it was over.” — ABBIE PACE
St. Thomas Episcopal to host rummage sale
St. Thomas Episcopal Church is hosting its annual rummage sale, located at 5400 Belle Terre Parkway in Palm Coast, on Friday, April 17 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Saturday, April 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shopping bags will be provided. On Saturday, April 18, from noon to 1 p.m., bags will be $5 for one, or $10 for three bags. Bags for the boutique section will cost $15 during the one-hour time frame. Shoppers will find a wide variety of gently used items, including men, women, and children’s clothing, household goods, jewelry, books, toys, and more. Breakfast and lunch items are available for purchase, as well as homemade treats.
St. Thomas Episcopal Church will be accepting donations of clean, gently used items beginning Monday, April 13 through Wednesday, April 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The church is also seeking volunteers to assist in organizing and running the sale. If interested, contact Judy at 305-219-1539. Send faith-related news to jarleene@observerlocalnews. com.
On Easter morning, something happened that was not imagined. The women who went to the tomb of Jesus were not expecting a miracle. They carried spices to anoint a dead body. Their hearts were heavy with grief. For them, Good Friday had ended everything. Their hopes had been buried with Jesus. The stone placed over the tomb was not just a physical barrier; it was a symbol of finality, of defeat, of a dream that had come to an end. But when they arrived, the stone had been rolled away. The tomb was empty. And soon they would hear the words that would change the course of history: “He is not here; he has been raised” (Luke 24:6).
Easter is not a myth like Persephone’s return. Because He lives, we too shall live.
Brought
Stephenson, Wilcox and Associates
Kinsley Alexander gets a photo with the Easter Bunny. Photos by Abbie Pace
Remi Heresco.
YOUR SCHOOLS
Winning speeches: Leon for president! Lucy wants
An aspiring wildlife vet and a presidential hopeful recited their winning speeches for Flagler School Board.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Old Kings Elementary School fourth grader Lucy David wants to be a wildlife veterinarian when she grows up. Old Kings Elementary fifth grader Leon Krawczyk wants to be president.
Lucy and Leon won the Flagler County School District’s
4H Public Speaking Contest for fourth and fifth graders on Feb. 25 at the Palm Coast Community Center. They recited their winning speeches at the March 24 Flagler
CLASS NOTES
FPC’s Hurry wins Flagler County’s Voter’s Guide cover contest
School Board meeting. Flagler Schools has participated in the 4H Public Speaking Contest for over 15 years, Frank said.
“As far back as I can remember, I’ve always loved animals,” Lucy said in her speech. “If I can spend time with them and help them when they are sick or injured, it would make me happy every day. A wildlife vet takes care of animals like lions, snakes, tigers, turtles, penguins, monkeys, giraffes and more. Many of them are not the type to sit still for an appointment, so this job can be challenging, but never boring. One day I might be helping a penguin, and the next day I might be telling a monkey to stop stealing my lunch. … Wild animals can get hurt by cars, pollution, fires or by destroying their homes. … Being a wildlife vet is an
Flagler Palm Coast High School student Jacoby Hurry has won the Flagler County 2026 Voter’s Guide cover design contest. Flagler County Supervisor of Elections Kaiti Lenhart presented Hurry with his winning certificate at the Flagler County School Board meeting on March 24. Hurry also received a $50 gift card. Over 80 FPC and Matanzas High School digital design students submitted cover designs for the county’s Voter’s Guide. School Board members on March 10 selected Hurry’s design as the winner. This is the 16th year of the
important job, because they help make sure that animals don’t go extinct. Without these vets, the world would be a much quieter and less interesting place. And zoos would be very awkwardly empty.”
Lucy went on to say that she was inspired by her great uncle
contest, Lenhart said.
“It’s really a great way for teachers to use this as civics education in the classroom, because our Voter’s Guide is a publication that we hand out at events and to new registrants when they come into the office to register to vote,” Lenha said. The Voter’s Guide provides information on how to register, where to vote, offices up for election, and the upcoming election schedule.
First
Baptist Academy receives full accreditation
First Baptist Christian Academy in Palm Coast has received full accreditation again this year, the school announced in a
who was an animal trainer at SeaWorld and also traveled the world helping rehabilitate animals and releasing them back in the wild.
Leon sounded like the politician he aspires to be in his speech, “Leon for President.”
“Today I’m running for the presidency,” he said. “Why? Because I believe this country needs more fun, more snacks and a lot less homework. First of all, if I become president, I promise longer weekends. Friday will be optional, but you will get some rewards for coming to school. Monday will be canceled and Wednesday will be called Fun Day. Second, the teachers, all teachers, must get a 500% rate. We’ll also include a private lounge filled with coffee machines, donuts and treadmills.
“Kids, let me ask you a question. Have you ever tried school lunch? Well, imagine it being a five-star meal with anything you can imagine. All the kids will have Ice Cream Tuesday. ... I have not forgotten about our wonderful parents. For all moms I’ll reward them for their hard
work, I’ll give each mom a car … while the dads will get a $100 gift card to buy their wives anything they want, because, as they say, ‘Happy wife, happy life.’ Let’s not forget about education. As your president, I will make a new law for every book that you will read, you will get a free donut. Yum, donuts. As president, I will also fix important problems. For example, why do socks disappear in the washing machine? I will find them, I’ll bring them home, and I’ll make sure each sock has a best friend again. And finally, I promise to listen to the people, especially kids, because kids know what really matters: fun, kindness and snacks.”
Kristin Frank is Flagler Schools’ teaching and learning specialist for English Language Arts, K-5.
press release. FBCA is accredited through multiple organizations, including the Middle States Association, Cognia, the Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools and the National
Council for Private School Accreditation.
“In today’s educational landscape, families deserve both transparency and choice,” Dr. Max Fernandez, FBCA’s head of school, said. “Accreditation al-
lows us to demonstrate that we are not only committed to our mission, but also to excellence, accountability, and serving students well in every area.”
Elections Supervisor Kaiti Lenhart presents Flagler Palm Coast student Jacoby Hurry with a certificate. Courtesy photo, Flagler Schools
First Baptist Christian Academy Head of School Max Fernandez holds up the Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools Accreditation Certificate. Courtesy photo
Tomoka Elementary, Ormond Middle win gold at Battle of the Books
also won third in its division.
OBSERVER STAFF
Tomoka Elementary, Ormond Beach Middle School and Mainland High School’s Battle of the Books teams walked away winners after the competition on Friday, March 27, at the Ocean Center.
The teams from Tomoka Elementary and OBMS each won first place in the elementary and middle school divisions. Mainland won third place in the high school division.
The Tomoka Elementary team was led by captain Daniel Lucas and composed of team members Cora Rodziewicz, Surya Patel, Millan Patel and Jacob Frankel, according to an email to the Observer. The team was the same as last year’s, which won second place in its division.
“I am glad I could help and be part of a team that worked together to persevere through this challenge and become champions of the 2026 Battle of the Books competition,”
Daniel Lucas said. The team was coached and mentored by teacher Yanelisi Brugone, who said that the students essentially memo -
rized 10 books, cover to cover.
“This is an outstanding accomplishment,” she said. “These students demonstrated what can be achieved through hard work, collaboration, and a love for reading. They are excellent role models for the entire school.”
Volusia County Schools began competing in Battle of the Books in 2022. The Lucas family has been involved from the start; Daniel Lucas’ sister Hailey led the team in 2023, the year the county participated at the elementary level
for the first time. She brought home a championship win for Tomoka that year too.
Hailey remained team captain in 2024, the year Daniel joined the team as a third grader. After Hailey graduated elementary school, Daniel became the captain.
“Our children enjoy challenges that involve leadership and teamwork,” said their mom Claudia Ehringer Lucas, a professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
The Lucas family also praised Brugone.
“Mrs. Brugone has gone above and beyond this competition and in the classroom, not just for my children, but for all her students,” Ehringer Lucas said. “Regardless of whether they are still in her class, she shows up to events outside of school, on dutyfree days, weekends, and even evenings. Here are a few of the many events: social studies in DeLand, science events, STEM competitions in Orlando, and fitness festivals in Port Orange; she is always cheering on Tomoka Braves.”
The Mainland High School Battle of the Books team: Calleah Knight, Mea Glover, teacher Linda Berner, Zamari King-Lee, Damian Diaz, Jayda Bryant and teacher Josie Stumpf.
The Ormond Beach Middle School Battle of the Books team: Captain Helena Estes (center), Andrew Silas Oler (third from right), Mila Sehenuk Sylvie Nazaryan, Isabella Hans and Kylie Hucka with teachers Heather Ryan and Saundra Murray. Photo courtesy of Volusia County Schools/Facebook
The Tomoka Elementary team: Millan Patel, Jacob Frankel, Daniel Lucas and Surya Patel. Courtesy photo
12-pump gas station and retail planned for Sesame and Seminole Woods, in Palm Coast
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
A gas station and drive-thru commercial building with additional retail space is being planned for the north end of Sesame Boulevard along Seminole Woods Boulevard.
The project is still under review by the city of Palm Coast, but city documents show renderings of a 12-pump gas station and an L-shaped retail space. The preliminary designs show space for a convenience store, a drivethrough restaurant and four office or retail store spaces. The project is located at the north entrance into Sesame Boulevard from Seminole Woods. The convenience store will have 4,000 square feet
BIZ BUZZ
Halifax Humane Society offers male neutering for a nickel Halifax Humane Society is offering 5-cent male cat neuter surgeries from April 1 to June 30, with a goal to complete 900 procedures in 90 days to control overpopulation.
The “Neuter Scooter for a Nickel” initiative comes as the organization prepares to celebrate its 90th anniversary, a press release stated.
“Neutering male cats is a relatively quick, noninvasive procedure,” said Sean Hawkins, chief executive
in size.
The three smaller spaces will have 1,150 square feet and 54 parking spaces will be provided. Though some aspects of the technical site plan are still under review, a development permit was issued for the property owner, PC Lane, LLC, to begin construction work.
No specific gas station company, restaurant or business was listed in the city documents at this time.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
The Swillerbees Craft Donuts and Coffee Flagler Beach location is moving across the street into a bigger space, all to create community gathering space.
In a March 25 Facebook post, the Wehde family announced that the current Swillerbees in Flagler Beach will be moving across the street to the Ocean Bliss Spa building at 205 N. Central Ave. The space will allow for more parking and community-focused gatherings, the post said.
families, business people, friends, creatives, and anyone who just needs a spot to breathe.”
The new location will be open in early April and will have a private room available for meetings and a kidfriendly space for children to play.
“We’d love to hear what you would love to have there,” coowner Holly Wehde said in the video announcement.
Swillerbees,
officer of Halifax Humane Society. “Because of this — and thanks to our highly trained veterinary team — we can safely accommodate additional surgeries each day. By focusing on male cats, we can immediately reduce the number of unwanted kitten births and make a meaningful impact on animal homelessness in our community.”
The surgeries will take place at the HHS Spay and Neuter Clinic at 600 Mason Ave., Suite 150, in Daytona Beach. Feral cat surgeries are available on Wednesdays, and pet cat surgeries will be conducted on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
Appointments for male cat neuter surgeries are required and must be made online by visiting https://www. halifaxhumanesociety.org/
of retail space while the restaurant and the largest retail space will be 1,250 square feet
spay-neuter-clinic. Feral cats must arrive in a humane box trap. Pet cats must arrive in sturdy plastic carriers.
In addition to the surgery, the initiative includes postoperative pain medication, rabies vaccination, microchip for pet cats and an ear tip for feral cats.
Additional services — including vaccinations, testing, and flea prevention — will be available at the time of surgery for an additional cost.
Novel Tea Book Shop to host literary experience
Ormond’s Novel Tea Book Shop will debut “The Book End,” a curated literary experience, at the 2026 Daytona
In that same area of Sesame Boulevard is an application for a 394-lot, age-restricted residential project, called Soleta Lakes.
Beach Arts Festival, to be held
April 11-12 in the Beach Street Arts District.
According to a press release, The Book End will transform Federal Lane between Starry Night Gallery and the former Little Italy space into a destination for readers, writers and families featuring local and regional authors, live poetry readings, storytelling, creative activities and family-friendly programming throughout the weekend.
Visitors will have the opportunity to meet authors, explore books across multiple genres, and participate in interactive experiences such as bookmark decorating, zine demonstrations and literarythemed activities.
Novel Tea Book Shop will also host a central activation
“We want to build a community hub. Because people need community more than ever,” the post said. “We’re creating a space where you can come, stay, connect, and belong. A place for moms,
space offering tea, books and featured author signings.
“The arts festival has always been an incredible showcase for visual and performing arts,” said Stephanie Gonter, coowner of Novel Tea Book Shop.
“The Book End expands that celebration to include literature and storytelling, creating a space where readers can meet authors and experience books as part of the creative community.”
The Book End will feature a curated group of authors representing a variety of genres, including fiction, fantasy, romance, young adult and children’s literature.
For more information visit www.novelteabookshop.com or contact Gonter at stephanie@novelteabookshop.com or 386-317-6820.
Dahlia closes in Daytona Beach
Dahlia Mexican Kitchen closed its Daytona Beach location on Sunday, March 28.
“We want to take a moment to sincerely thank each and every one of you who supported us, dined with us, celebrated with us, and became part of our Dahlia family,” the restaurant’s Facebook post stated. “The memories made here mean more than we can put into words.” The restaurant was located in the Shoppes at One Daytona. The owners still operate one restaurant at One Daytona — BurgenTen and ChickenToo — as well as a Dahlia location in Port Orange. Changes will be coming soon to the Port Orange restaurant, according to the post.
REAL ESTATE
Riverside Drive home sells for $1.2 million
Ahouse a historic Ormond street at 382 Riverside Drive was the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-theSea for the week of March 7-13. The house sold on March 9, for $1,200,000. Built in 1969, the house is a 4/4 and has a pool, a dock, a boat house, a boat lift and 2,428 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $685,000. The house was listed by Julie Lindesmith, of Dalton Wade Inc.
JARLEENE ALMENAS
MANAGING EDITOR
Condos
The condo at 2100 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 1110, sold on March 13, for $257,500. Built in 1973, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,087 square feet. It last sold in 2008 for $170,000.
ORMOND BEACH
Banyan Estates
The house at 25 Dormont Drive sold on March 13, for
$335,000. Built in 1958, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,990 square feet. It last sold in 1998 for $85,000.
Breakaway Trails
The house at 6 Black Pine Way sold on March 13, for $660,000. Built in 2013, the house is a 3/3.5 and has a pool, a spa and 3,289 square feet. It last sold in 2013 for $409,000.
Halifax Plantation
The house at 1141 Athlone
Way sold on March 12, for $277,500. Built in 2000, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,532 square feet. It last sold in 2014 for $156,500.
Hunter’s Ridge
The house at 34 Canterbury Woods sold on March 10, for $510,000. Built in 2003, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool, a spa and 2,181 square feet. It last sold in 2005 for $341,500.
The house at 10 Cantilever Court sold on March 13, for $485,000. Built in 2009, the house is a 4/2.5 and has a pool and 2,910 square feet. It last sold in 2009 for $285,491.
The house at 77 Abacus Ave. sold on March 13, for $400,000. Built in 2009, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,221 square feet. It last sold in 2010 for $240,000.
Kings Crossing The house at 16 Lionshead Drive sold on March 9, for $608,000. Built in 1997, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a spa and 2,570 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $282,500.
The house at 9 Lionshead Drive sold on March 11, for $579,000. Built in 1999, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool, a spa and 2,559 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $319,000.
Ormond Beach, FL 32176 PORT ORANGE OFFICE - 386-767-SOLD (7653) 301 Dunlawton Ave., Port Orange, FL 32127 COMMERCIAL OFFICE - 386-253-8565 140 S. Atlantic Ave., Suite 202, Ormond Beach, FL 32176
DAYTONA BEACH SHORES OFFICE - 386-766-SOLD (7653) 3118 S. Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach Shores, FL 32118
WEST DAYTONA BEACH
A house on at 1670 Roosevelt Blvd. was sold on March 12, for $1,010,000. Built in 2007, the house is a 5/4 and has a pool, a spa and 3,484 square feet. The house last sold in 2022 for $815,000. The house was listed by Susan Summers and Lori DeLoera, of Century 21 Sundance Realty.
Bayberry Lakes
The house at 124 Logenberry Court sold on March 13, for $360,000. Built in 2010, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,783 square feet. It last sold in 2010 for $146,783.
Grande Champion
The house at 609 Champion Ridge Drive sold on March 10, for $338,150. Built in 2013, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,714 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $226,000.
The house at 1001 Ellerston St. sold on March 13, for $359,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,828 square feet. The house at 311 Birkdale
Not in subdivision
The house at 236 S. Beach St. sold on March 12, for $940,000. Built in 1920, the house is a 4/4, including an apartment over a separate garage, and has a dock, a boat lift and 3,135 square feet. It last sold in 2012 for $275,000.
Ormond Ridge
The house at 409 Collins St. sold on March 13, for $265,000. Built in 1972, the house is a 3/1.5 and has 1,076 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $147,500.
The Trails
The house at 4 Rocky Creek Trail sold on March 12, for $745,000. Built in 1981,
Drive sold on March 10, for $349,000. Built in 2015, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,739 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $270,000.
Latitude Margaritaville
The townhome at 1032 Sea Shell Court sold on March 12, for $450,000. Built in 2019, the townhome is a 3/2 and has 1,563 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $529,000.
The house at 575 Beach Bum Blvd. sold on March 13, for $890,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 2/2.5 and has a pool, a spa and
the house is a 4/3 and has a fireplace, a pool and 2,902 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $735,000.
Tomoka Meadows
The townhome at 18 Tomoka Meadows Blvd. sold on March 10, for $180,000. Built in 1980, the townhome is a 2/2.5 and has 1,574 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $124,900.
Tomoka View
2,339 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $723,000.
Legends Preserve The house at 1133 British Circle sold on March 13, for $375,000. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,190 square feet.
Mosaic
The house at 247 Azure Mist Way sold on March 12, for $527,000. Built in 2025, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,993 square feet.
John Adams, of Adams, Cameron
The house at 389 Apache Trail sold on March 13, for $445,000. Built in 1977, the house is a 4/2.5 and has a fireplace, a pool and 2,196 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $219,000. in 2021 for $105,000.
Tymber Creek The house at 335 Bent Creek Lane sold on March 10, for $361,467. Built in 1980, the house is a 4/2 and has a fireplace and 1,936 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $198,000.
ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA Oakview Heights
The house at 28 Sunrise Ave. sold on March 9, for $500,000. Built in 1965, the house is a 5/4.5 and has a fireplace, a pool and 3,905 square feet. It last sold in 1986 for $73,000. The
Key Upgrades & Features:
1,454 sq. ft. of sophisticated living space backed by a peaceful nature preserve. The open-concept great room impresses with 12’ ceilings and porcelain plank tile flooring that flows throughout the entire home. The designer kitchen features premium quartz countertops, a tile backsplash, soft close cabinetry, a walk-in pantry, and an expansive breakfast bar overlooking the dining and living areas. Retreat to the primary suite boasting double walk-in closets and a spa-like ensuite with a large quartz vanity and custom tiled shower.
This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a 2-car garage is offered partially furnished, includes a washer and dryer. The spacious interior flows seamlessly to the outdoors through large sliding glass doors that open to a generous screenedin back porch—the perfect spot to enjoy unobstructed, serene views of the nature preserve.
Protection: Accordion hurricane shutters (plus one roll-down) and a full-house surge protector. Efficiency: Solar attic fan and a full-house water filtration system. Style: 5” baseboards, crown molding and 2” blinds throughout.
Low Maintenance: $178/month HOA includes full lawn care, hedge trimming, leaf blowing, and care of common areas for easy living. Nearby, enjoy world-class amenities including two 18-hole Championship golf courses, a practice course, a clubhouse, and a signature restaurant. Located minutes from I-95/I-4, convenient access to beaches, shopping, hospitals, and Daytona International Airport, with Orlando attractions just an hour away. At only $365,000 call today to schedule your private showing! Welcome to Eagle Marsh South at LPGA International!
ORMOND BEACH
house at 1670 Roosevelt Blvd. sold on March 12, for $1,010,000. Photo courtesy of Susan Summers/Century 21 Sundance Realty
Down under
Despite Five Star loss, new delivery working for Flagler Palm Coast pitcher
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Jordan Gonzalez is pleased with his new submarine style pitching delivery, but he and his Flagler Palm Coast teammates and coaches were not pleased with the Bulldogs’ 5-3 home loss to Orange City University on Monday, March 30, in the first round of the Five Star Conference baseball tournament.
FPC, the second seed in the tourney, dropped into the consolation bracket where the Bulldogs (13-7) hosted New Smyrna Beach (4-12-1) on Tuesday, March 31. FPC won 9-1, advancing to the fifthplace game on April 2.
On March 30, Gonzalez pitched 6.1 innings allowing four earned runs on seven hits including a second-inning home run to Aiden Shaw.
FPC scored two runs in the bottom of the fifth to take a 3-2 lead with Gonzalez contributing with a run-scoring single. But the Titans (10-9) scored a run in the sixth and two more in the seventh while University starter Tyler Kniebbe and
reliever Jaden Palmer kept the Bulldogs off the scoreboard in the last two innings.
Nole Hemmerle had a big day for FPC with a solo home run in the third inning and a single and a run scored in the fifth. Hemmerle went 3 for 4 on the night. But the Bulldogs as a team left eight men on base and struck out 11 times.
“We didn’t play well
tonight,” FPC coach Kyle Marsh said. “We didn’t make the routine plays in the beginning of the game, and it came back and bit us, and we didn’t make adjustments at the plate. We just struggled all night. Props to (Kniebbe). He came in and did his job, but we weren’t prepared.”
Gonzalez, who has a 3.16 earned run average over a team-high 37.2 innings, has been solid all season with his new submarine delivery, bending his torso and releasing the ball almost near dirt level.
“Gonzo did what Gonzo has done all season,” Marsh said. “He gave us a chance to win.”
The senior made the switch from the more conventional over-the-top delivery in the fall.
“I like throwing sub a lot more. I tore my MCL over the summer, so I couldn’t throw for a while, and I came back and I was throwing pretty bad from over the top, so I just switched.”
JORDAN GONZALEZ
“I like throwing sub a lot more,” Gonzalez said. “I feel like it’s a lot better. I tore my MCL over the summer, so I couldn’t throw for a while, and I came back and I was throwing pretty bad from over the top, so I just switched. It’s been a lot better since. Every start, I feel like I get a little better, and my stuff gets a little better.”
Marsh said the submarine delivery will give Gonzalez a better chance of getting an opportunity to pitch in college.
“He’s grown into it and doing a really good job at it,” Marsh said. “It takes a lot of time, and a lot of practice, and I think he’s putting a lot of time and effort into really mastering it. And this is just the beginning for him. I just think it
gives him more opportunities in college to come in and be a spot relief guy or be a closer. I look forward to see what he can do at the next level.”
The Bulldogs came into the University game having won six of their last seven games. They are currently ranked third in both their district and region. Each win can make a difference for their postseason position.
“We play two more games (in the Five Star tournament), and they matter for our record to get a high regional seed,” Gonzalez said after the University game. “Win a regional, and no one cares if we lost Five Star.”
The Bulldogs have three more regular-season games after the conference tournament.
Seabreeze honors its four seniors on baseball Senior Night
The Sandcrabs celebrated Austin Upchurch, Tommy Hayes, Jacob McKinnon and JT Gilbert.
OBSERVER STAFF
The Seabreeze baseball team honored its four seniors at its Senior Night celebration before its game with St. Augustine on March 25 at the Ormond Beach Sports Complex. The Sandcrabs recognized seniors Austin Upchurch, Tommy Hayes, Jacob McKinnon and JT Gilbert.
Seabreeze fell to the Yellow Jackets 4-2. Freshman Dallas Newkirk had two hits, including a double, and scored both runs for the Sandcrabs. Seabreeze won five of seven games from Feb. 26 to March 17 but then lost five in a row. Two of the losses came on the games’ final at-bat. Palm Harbor won 7-6 in the eighth inning on a walk-off single on March 18. On March 27, Seabreeze fell to Spruce Creek 2-1. The Hawks, 17-3 and the fifthranked team in Class 7A, won on a bases-loaded walk in the bottom of the seventh inning. It was a hard-luck loss for Hayes, who allowed three hits and one earned run in 6.1
The fifth-seeded
innings.
Sandcrabs beat No. 4 Deltona 6-4 on Monday, March 30, in the first round of the conference tournament, before losing to
Spruce Creek 5-4
Seabreeze honored seniors Austin Upchurch, Jacob McKinnon, JT Gilbert and Tommy Hayes. Courtesy photo by Homegrown Memories Photography
FPC third baseman Carson Flis warms up between innings. Photos by Keishia McLendon
FPC’s Jordan Gonzalez drops down to pitch.
FPC’s Marion Clayton swings at a pitch. Clayton went 1 for 3 with a walk and a run scored.
University pitcher Tyler Kniebbe (left) tries to pick off FPC’s Paul Bowen at first. But Bowen beat Nathan Tillis’ tag.
The Bulldogs celebrate Nole Hemmerle’s (7) third-inning home run.
fighting. That’s what I just love about this team: the heart. They’re a good group of girls. They love each other. They’re playing for each other, and they just battled and battled.”
Following the Buccaneers’ 20-0 loss to the Sharks the previous week, Simpson and his staff made a few adjustments before heading into the March 30 game. He moved their star rusher, Natalie “Uno” Williams, to the offensive line, where her speed was used at running back. He also told quarterback Natalie Williams that it was not necessary to throw the ball every play and, as an athlete, to trust her feet.
‘What I love about this team: the heart’
Natalie Williams scored the Buccaneers’ first touchdown of the game, on a quarterback keeper, passed for 179 yards, had 11 rushing yards, and made two interceptions. She finished with two rushing and two passing touchdowns.
Ubi Patel coached offense and defense with the Mainland flag football team for four years before becoming the defensive coordinator for Daytona State College’s flag football team last year. He is currently the Buccaneers’ defensive coach and said the adjustments made the difference.
“We went to a zone defense, and then once we went to the zone defense, after that, we got three interceptions, a bunch of sacks, and shut them out,” he said.
Mainland alumna Alexa Wilson, who was also a quarterback for the Bucs, coaches the offense. She recently graduated from Thomas University, where she had a successful career as a quarterback for the Night Hawks. She said it is emotional coaching her team.
“I wish that I could be playing still,” she said. “It’s weird to be in these close game situations with this team and not be able to do anything but trust that they’re going to take the call. But Nat (quar terback Natalie Williams) did, and she did a great job. I love to pour myself into her and try to just make her a better quarterback every day. She’s amazing.”
Natalie “Uno” Williams finished the game with one rushing touchdown as a run ning back, tight end Terri Williams had one touch down, and tight end/line backer Zariah Blue solidified the win with a last-quarter touchdown reception. Blue recently committed to play flag football with the Daytona State College Falcons. Rusher Shamya Scott cur rently leads the Bucs with 14 sacks this season.
“I wish that I could be playing still. It’s weird to be in these close game situations with this team and not be able to do anything but trust that they’re going to take the call. But Nat (quarterback Natalie Williams) did, and she did a great job. I love to pour myself into her and try to just make her a better quarterback every day. She’s amazing.”
ALEXA WILSON
Former Mainland flag football quarterback Alexa Wilson coaches the Mainland offense. She addressed the team following the win against Atlantic.
Atlantic players cannot stop the touchdown by Mainland wide receiver Zariah Blue (10). Mainland quarterback Natalie Williams (left) works her way through three Atlantic defenders.
Mainland receiver Terri Williams reaches for a first down before Atlantic players Delilah Fletcher (left) and Santana Dixon (right) pull her flag.
Mainland’s Hannah Tucker (left) tosses the ball before Atlantic’s Delilah Fletcher (right) pulls her flag.
ETHAN SIMPSON, Mainland flag football head coach
FPC advances to Five Star Conference flag football championship game
Tori Spann ran for a touchdown and threw for the extra point in FPC’s 7-6 victory over Spruce Creek.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Flagler Palm Coast’s flag football players knew their game against Spruce Creek on March 30 would come down to defense.
The Bulldogs got the job done, keeping the Hawks out of the end zone when it mattered in a 7-6 home victory in the first round of the Five Star Conference flag football tournament. FPC (8-2) went on to defeat New Smyrna Beach 19-0 on March 31 to advance to the championship game at top seed Deltona on April 2 at 6 p.m.
“Their offense is very disciplined,” FPC senior Nereyda Campos said of Spruce Creek.
“We just knew from the start that we had to come out strong and we had to protect the (fly routes) and (stop routes), and we executed very well.”
The Bulldogs took the lead with 1:52 left in the second quarter on Tori Spann’s 3-yard touchdown run. Spann then connected with Stephanie Turner on an extra-point pass which turned out to be the difference in the game.
“We stopped them in the red zone at least four times, and it’s just a testament to the girls,” FPC coach John King said. “It doesn’t matter what happens, they’re going to keep fighting.”
Spruce Creek scored in the third quarter on quarterback Khloe Jackson’s touchdown pass to Nina Macy, but the Bulldogs kept Hawks receiver Mateja Santo Domingo out of the end zone on the extra point attempt.
Creek moved to within 7 yards of a score in the waning moments of the second quarter and then moved to within 10 yards of a score with 1:09 left in the game before turning the ball over on downs.
FPC won its fourth game in a row but was playing for the first time in 18 days because of a rainout following spring break.
“You could tell we were a little rusty, but the girls showed up and got it done,” King said.
The win was the Bulldogs’ second against the Hawks this season. FPC also defeated Creek 6-0 in overtime in the season opener on Feb. 18.
Spann scored the Bulldogs’ only touchdown in that game too.
“Spruce Creek is a great program, and they have been for a long time,” King said. “They’re well respected in the area. And we’ve had to battle them twice now. I fully expect to play them at least one more time and possibly even in the regional playoffs, because that’s a really good team.”
Campos, who plays quarterback, running back and defensive back for the Bulldogs, said her team has good chemistry. Spann, Tuner and Campos first developed that chemistry with the Bulldogs’ basketball team, Campos said.
“We all work together well from basketball to flag football,” she said.
FPC quarterback Nereyda Campos (11).
FPC’s Tori Spann (23). Photos by Keishia McLendon Flagler Palm Coast’s Makayla Barbel (9).
Matanzas girls lacrosse tops FPC to clinch first winning season in 10 years
‘Tonight was such a memorable night’: Pirates celebrate after winning final home game on Senior Night.
Matanzas girls lacrosse coach
Brandie Alred has the Pirates’ program on the upswing. Flagler Palm Coast’s longtime coach, Katie Kastner, is excited about the potential of her young players.
It’s not easy running a lacrosse program in Flagler County, where the sport is essentially on an island. There are no high school lacrosse programs in neighboring Volusia County. And there is no feeder program in Flagler.
“We’re kind of like a dry zone,” Kastner said. “(The players) come to us at the high school level, and they’ve never even seen lacrosse, let alone know how to play. So you’re really starting from the ground up.”
Yet, both programs have experienced some success over the years as new players
fall in love with the game and make up for lost time. Alred took over a team that was coming off multiple winless seasons and has led the Pirates to 16 wins in three years.
Matanzas’ 10-5 win over FPC on Wednesday, March 25, clinched the Pirates’ first winning record since 2016 when they went 14-4.
With the win over the Bulldogs on Matanzas’ Senior Night, the Pirates improved to 6-4. Their final regularseason game was April 1 at Beachside.
“We clinched it,” Matanzas senior midfielder and co-captain Mia Apfelbach exclaimed. “Our first winning season in 10 years. We’re going to remember that for the rest of our lives.”
Sophomore Trinity Johnston and junior Addison
session of eight ground balls and had six draw controls.
Johnston won six draws for the Pirates, while Apfelbach had seven ground balls.
At halftime, the Pirates honored seniors Apfelbach, Taylor Basiger, Kenna Hardee, Paityn Lawrence and Openshaw.
“It was a very fun night but also a very sad night, because I’ll be leaving my team and moving to college,” said Lawrence, who is a defender and co-captain. “It’s bittersweet, but it’s definitely fun to celebrate with my team. I’m going to miss them a lot next year.”
With the win, the Pirates tied their all-time series with the Bulldogs at 11-11. Matanzas has won four in a row against FPC, including both games this season, and five of the last six. The Bulldogs had won five in a row before that.
Alred each scored three goals for Matanzas. Apfelbach and Amirah Kardas scored two goals apiece and senior Taylor Openshaw scored one goal.
Juniors Sofia Fretterd and Brianna Long scored all five goals for FPC. Fretterd scored three goals and Long scored two. Long also gained pos -
The latest game was close into the third quarter when FPC pulled to within 5-3, but the Pirates scored five goals in a row to take a 10-3 lead with 6:58 left in the game.
“We just couldn’t sustain through the 48 minutes,” Kastner said. “You’re not going to win a game playing one or two good quarters. You got to play the whole 48.”
FPC followed the loss with wins over Menendez and St. Joseph to improve to 3-9.
The Bulldogs have only three seniors this year — Gianna Seifert, Riley Nousaath and goalie Emma Haggard — with most of their key players returning next year.
“We have a lot of young girls, a lot of good potential,” Kastner said. “Most of our attack’s coming back, twothirds of our midfield is coming back, and we should have a good class coming in, so it’s exciting.”
Brandie Alred said she was pleased with the Pirates’ ball movement against FPC.
“They play hard defense and they play very aggressive,” she said. “So, the fact that we were able to keep the ball moving to keep their defense on their toes was great. That opened up a lot of different shots from different points, from the X from behind the goal, from the top, and we had some great fast breaks.”
FPC and Matanzas will play on the road in the District 4-2A quarterfinals on April 9. The other four teams in the district are all in Seminole County. But for one final night, the Pirates’ seniors were able to celebrate at the Ship.
“I loved being with my team for the last home game,” Apfelbach said. “Tonight was such a memorable night, and I loved every moment of it.”
FPC’s Brianna Long (8) carries the ball as Matanzas’ Kenna Hardee (15) and Trinity Johnston (24) defend. Photos by Brent Woronoff
Matanzas’ Trinity Johnston (24) come from behind FPC’s goal.
Matanzas girls lacrosse seniors honored on Senior Night: Taylor Openshaw (17), Paityn Lawrence (12), Mia Apfelbach (10), Taylor Basiger (33) and Kenna Hardee (15) with coach Brandie Alred.
Strawser wins two titles, McFall breaks record SIDELINES
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Flagler Palm Coast’s Matt McFall set a school record and Cody Strawser won two titles as the Bulldogs placed second in both competitions at the Five Star Conference boys weightlifting championships on Wednesday, March 25, at FPC.
Spruce Creek won both titles. The Hawks defeated FPC by one point, 53-52, in the Olympic competition. Creek won by a more comfortable margin the traditional competition, 61-42.
“I’d rather get beat by 100 points than get beat by one point,” FPC coach Duane Hagstrom said. “One made lift here, one made lift there and it’s a different (outcome).”
New Smyrna Beach finished third in both competitions. Seabreeze was fourth in
FPC’s Matt McFall gets set to snatch 265 pounds. McFall had a career day with a school record in the clean and jerk and another PR in the bench press. He won the unlimited weight class in Olympic and tied for the top total in traditional but placed second based on the body-weight tiebreaker.
strom said. “He made a crazy jump on his third clean and jerk (attempting 300 pounds after lifting 280) just because he had already won after his opener (of 270). We were just playing around with some things moving forward. We’re just trying to progress as we get towards state.”
Nya Williams wins Miss Weightlifting honor was state’s top girls lifter
FPC lacrosse goalie passes milestone
Olympic with 23 points and fifth in traditional, also with 23 points, one point behind DeLand. Mainland finished seventh in traditional and ninth in Olympic.
McFall won the Olympic title in the unlimited class by 90 pounds over Spruce Creek’s Jeremiah Hall with a 620-pound total. McFall set a school record in the clean and jerk with a 355-pound lift. He also hoisted a personal-record 355 pounds in the bench press for a 710-pound traditional total, tying Hall for first place.
But Hall won the tie-breaker with a lower body weight.
Strawser won both titles in the 129-pound class going 9-for-9 on his lifts. He totaled 450 pounds in the Olympic lifts (snatch and clean and jerk) and 475 in traditional (clean and jerk and bench).
Jackson Fedun won the 169-pound Olympic title with a 505-pound total and placed second in traditional with a 525-pound total.
“Cody won two titles. Matt had a great day. Jackson Fedun had a great day,” Hag-
Also placing among the top three for the Bulldogs were Anthony Giacobbe (second in Olympic, third in traditional, 119 pounds), Landon Gates (second in Olympic, third in traditional, 183 pounds), Marlon Alvarado (second in Olympic, 199 pounds), Mathias Parker (third in Olympic, second in traditional, 199 pounds), Joseph Casanova (second in Olympic, third in traditional, 238 pounds), and Wendell Weaver (third in Olympic, unlimited).
For Seabreeze, Ezra Williams placed second in traditional at 183 pounds with a 525-pound total, Vincent Pedersen was third in Olympic at 129 pounds, Dean Hayes was third in Olympic at 139 pounds and Jace Perez placed third in traditional at 154 pounds.
Mainland’s Ray Tatro (119 pounds) and Mason Durrance (219 pounds) both placed third in traditional.
The Bulldogs host their final regular-season meet on April 1. They will face Spruce Creek and Mainland again, along with Matanzas, in the District 4-3A tournament on April 8 at FPC. Seabreeze will compete in the District 8-2A meet at New Smyrna Beach.
“In 2022 when we won state, we didn’t win conference, we didn’t win districts and we didn’t win regionals,” Hagstrom said. “As you move farther down the road, the field thins out. So, anything’s possible.”
Flagler Palm Coast state weightlifting champion Nya Williams has been selected as the 2026 Florida Dairy Farmers Miss Weightlifting. The award goes to the top girls weightlifter in the state. Williams, a junior, dominated the 119-pound division at the Class 3A state championships, winning the traditional and Olympic titles. She set a new state clean-and-jerk record with a 210-pound lift.
Williams won three gold medals at the 2025 USA Weightlifting national championships last June and has been accepted USA Weightlifting’s National Team Program. On Tuesday, March 31, Sports Illustrated Kids visited FPC to do a photo shoot with Williams for an upcoming feature.
Pirate commits to Oglethorpe University for lacrosse Matanzas boys lacrosse attacker Vincent Ferrugiaro committed to Oglethorpe University in Atlanta to play lacrosse next year.
Mad Dogs realignment
Mad Dogs Flag Football President Jay Maxwell announced on Facebook that he is stepping away from day-to-day operations of the Flagler County organization. Maxwell’s new title with Mad Dogs will be CEO with Joey Arzuaga the new president and Rick Vaders vice president. Nicole Nichols Magsino will work with the Mad Dogs women’s league
FPC boys lacrosse goalie Aiden Commendatore surpassed 600 saves with the Bulldogs during a game on March 25. Commendatore, who has signed with Savannah College of Art and Design to play college lacrosse next year, has reached the saves milestone in three seasons after transferring to FPC before his sophomore year.
Track and field standouts
FPC’s La’Darius Simmons placed second in javelin at the FSU Relays with a throw of 190 feet, 8 inches. Matanzas’ Peyton Cerasi was 26th in the girls 3,200 meters at the Relays in 11:04.5. At the Coach McPherson Invitational in Sanford, FPC’s Jordan Haymon won the 200 with a PR 21.39, Naji Eddins won 110 hurdles, Tony Coates won 400 hurdles. Anna Grigoruk won the girls 1,600 meters. Mainland’s Ethan Figeueroa won high jump and long jump. Mainland’s Michael London won discus. Mainland’s Makayla Doe won girls triple jump and Sydney Noelien won girls discus. At the Royal Invitational at The First Academy, Matanzas’ Kamryn Miller won girls discus, Kevin Gilpin won boys 400. Jaden Hart-Dormevil, Jez McCoy, Josh Mills and Jayden McCoy won the 4x400 relay. At the Deltona Tuneup, Seabreeze’s Aiden O’Brien won both the boys 100 and 200, Hunter Shuler won the 1,600, Dominic Dowell won the 400 hurdles, Drayton Bracket won the 110 hurdles and Dowell, Brackett, Kjon Willis and Jacob McKinnon won the 4x400.
FPC placed second at Five Star Conference weightlifting.
FPC’s Cody Strawser (center) stands atop the podium after placing first in the 129-pound weight class in the Olympic competition. Seabreeze’s Vincent Pedersen (right) placed third. DeLand’s Jaxon Van Horn (left) was second. Strawser also won the traditional competition.
Mainland’s Ray Tatro cleans 195 pounds. Tatro placed third in the traditional competition and fourth in Olympic in the 129-pound weight class. Photos by Brent Woronoff
Holy Week at St. James
CLASSIFIEDS
Items under $200
PLANT LADY HAS ASSORTED PLANTS FOR SALE!!! Elephant
Ears, Snake Plants, Plus Many Other Types of Plants. Call for Appointment. Starting at $1 PC 814-574-6387
TWO shelves Light oak custom made. One is 48 x 11”. The second one is 71 x 11” 386-7933155. Can send pictures.
Recliner Chair Cushy Comfortable, Soft Gold, Good Condition $65. Office Chair, Black with Arm Rest, Shows Some Wear, 5 Wheels, Glides Easily $55. 386-871-1156
Electric Remote Control Fire Place Used 1x Slpit side Doors $140 OBO 386-206-9006
SEWING MACHINE Brother XL2600i & hideaway desk w/ cabinet $100 OBO (386) 615-0800
Cleaning services Ana’s Personal housekeeping. One Time, Weekly, Or Monthly Service (PC) anaspersonalhousekeeping@gmail.com 386-868-9662
Tired of cleaning? I’ve got you covered! Quality home cleaning—affordable & dependable. StillSpace Cleaning Services Call/text: +1 (631) 306-4528 Palm Coast & Flagler County For Rent
FLAGLER BEACH TOWNHOUSE 2/2 w 1car gar. Furnished w all supplies. $2100/ MO 678-897-7896.
TRIBUTES
Peter James Loprete
December 29, 1924 - March 24, 2026
Corporal and MP overseas. He was a successful insurance agent with Allstate for 37 years. Pete and Yolanda, his wife of 68 years, spent time between New Jersey and Palm Coast, Florida. They enjoyed golfing together and Lindy was Pete’s biggest fan watching him play softball for Wadsworth and the Senior Olympics. Pete pitched until he was 90. They were members of the Italian American Club, American Legion, Elks, VFW, and the Palm Coast Yacht Club. He was a practicing Catholic and charitable to friends and causes. Pete was always ready with a song or a joke to brighten up your day. He was predeceased by his wife, and three brothers, John, Martin, Louis, and sister, Mildred. He will be greatly missed by his children Robert (Deborah), Leslie (Bob), Donna; grandchildren Robbie, Michael, Jeffrey, Ali, and Nick; great grandchildren Steven, Harper, Lily; and many friends and teammates in Palm Coast especially Beth and Charlie Corallo who were so kind
For
Sale
New Brown Italian Chase Lounge, Never Used. Like New
Bone Colored Shiatso Massage Chair, Barely Used. New Generator Only Used 2 Days. Entire Men’s Wardrobe. Many Many More Items. 386-586-5418 Please leave message
Home Services
Bathroom Safety Grab Bars
Keep your parents and loved ones safe. Bathroom safety grab bars are a must. (386) 506-9272
Construction Cleanup Derrick The Clean Up Man. Haul Trash, Clean Flower Beds, Honey Do’s, Pressure Wash, Construction Cleans. No Job Is TOO BIG or TOO SMALL. Licensed. Insured 386-503-5536
until the end. A service and celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Pete is now coaching and pitching for God’s softball team and telling the outfield where to play. Love you Dad. Rest in peace. Go Yankees!
Real Estate FOR SALE BY OWNER 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN THE L SECTION PALM COAST. NEW ROOF, NEW A/C AND MORE. EXCELLENT PRICE. 2025 TAXES ALREADY PAID. 2 MILES FROM MATANZA WOODS
GOLF COURSE. Call 1-386-4377058 for more information. No Texting
Yard Sale Community Yard Sale April 10th &11th 9am-2pm At Plantation Oaks on Old Kings Rd Flagler Beach
Bulow Plantation Hosts Community Yard Sale Sat 4/11 9:00AM-2:00PM “Rain Date 4/18”
The Observer is everywhere. Pick one up! The print edition is free. Look for it on more than 100 newsstands.
Let us bring one to you! Sign up for driveway delivery: $52 per year.
PLAT RECORDED
THE NORTH 100 FEET OF THE EAST 25 FEET OF LOT 19 AND THE NORTH 100 FEET OF LOT(S) 21 AND 23, BLOCK B OF GREENWICH VILLAGE AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 6, PAGE 97, ET SEQ., OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA.
Property Address: 854 S ALABAMA AVE, DELAND, FL 32724
and for Volusia County, Florida, wherein U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF2 ACQUISITION TRUST is the Plaintiff and THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHERS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF MAURICE BROWN, DECEASED; THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHERS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF MARK S. BROWN A/K/A MARK BROWN, DECEASED; MARIANNE HANRAHAN; MARILYN RAMOS are the Defendant(s). Laura E. Roth as the Clerk of the Circuit Court will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash at www.volusia.realforeclose.com, at 11:00 AM, on April 23, 2026, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit:
Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim in accordance with Florida Statutes, Section 45.031. IMPORTANT AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT. If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance.
To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration, 101 N. Alabama Ave., Ste D-305, Deland, FL 32724, (386) 257-6096. Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711. Dated this 29 day of March, 2026. ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC
Attorney for Plaintiff 6409 Congress Ave., Suite 100 Boca Raton, FL 33487 Telephone: 561-241-6901
Facsimile: 561-997-6909
Service Email: flmail@raslg.com
By: \S\Danielle Salem Danielle Salem, Esquire Florida Bar No. 0058248
Communication Email: dsalem@raslg.com 23-149099 - MaS April 2, 9, 2026 26-00224I
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 2025 12467 CICI THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-13, Plaintiff, vs. DONNA TUCKER, AS PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF ALICE BARRS, DECEASED, et al. Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated March 18, 2026, and entered in 2025 12467 CICI of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH Judicial Circuit in and for Volusia County, Florida, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-13 is the Plaintiff and DONNA TUCKER; DONNA TUCKER, AS PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF ALICE BARRS, DECEASED are the Defendant(s). Laura E. Roth as the Clerk of the Circuit Court will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash at www.volusia.realforeclose.com, at 11:00 AM, on April 22, 2026, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: ALL OF LOTS 16 AND 17, AND THE WESTERLY ONE-HALF (1/2) OF LOT 18, ALL IN BLOCK 6, EAST HIGHLANDS, ACCORDING TO
TRIBUTES
Robert “Rob” Nelson Bridger
June 19, 1948 – March 9, 2026
Rob Bridger, 77, of Ormond Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, March 9, 2026. A man of profound integrity, dedicated service, and immense love for his family, Rob leaves behind a legacy of compassion and leadership that will be felt for generations.
Born on June 19, 1948, in Norfolk, Virginia, Rob grew up in Newport News alongside his brother, Royce. Following high school, Rob answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy in 1969. Serving honorably as a 1st Class Hospital Corpsman at Bethesda Naval Hospital during the Vietnam War, he discovered a lifelong passion for caring for others, particularly those facing severe medical and mental health challenges.
It was during his Navy tour that Rob met the love of his life, Maureen Fallon, a fellow Navy nurse. They were wed at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City on November 11, 1972, beginning a beautiful 53-year journey together. In the early 1970s, Rob decided to continue his education, relocating to Florida to attend Stetson University, where he graduated with a focus on psychology and social work. His commitment to excellence led him to Florida State University, where he earned a second Master’s degree in Public Administra-
tion. Rob dedicated 37 years of his professional life to serving his community, focusing on programs that helped children in need of medical services. His achievements were vast, including serving as a Regional Program Administrator for Children’s Medical Services—overseeing a $17.9 billion budget for children with special needs—and as Bureau Chief for statewide public assistance. Throughout his career, he was a tireless advocate for the homeless, the elderly, and medically needy children, always striving to make his community a better place.
In 1989, Rob and Maureen moved to The Trails in Ormond Beach, where Rob became a pillar of the local community. He served more than a decade on the HOA Board of Directors, including a tenure as President. He was instrumental in strengthening homeowner engagement and chaired the Newspaper Committee for “The Canopy.” In his home life, there were “his girls.” Rob was the rock of support for his family—always there to help, coach, and mentor. He celebrated the birth of his daughter, Erin, on May 20, 1975, and later the birth of his granddaughter, Andreya, on January 5, 2007. Rob attended every game, no matter the sport or activity, and was consistently their biggest fan. To his grand-
daughter, he was affectionately known as “GDaddy.” Rob was an avid FSU sports fan, a dedicated tennis player, and a cyclist. He was always up for an adventure, whether it was a trip or a cruise, and he and Maureen traveled the world together, making a lifetime of memories.
Rob is preceded in death by his parents, Garland and Evelyn Bridger, and his brother, Royce G. Bridger. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Maureen C. Bridger; his daughter, Erin M. Bridger; his granddaughter, Andreya R. Bridger; his sister-in-law, Judith Bridger; and a large circle of extended family and friends.
Rob Bridger lived a life defined by the values of service, leadership, and an unwavering devotion to his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A memorial service will be held on April 10 at 1:00 p.m. at Lohman Funeral Home.
