Ormond Beach Observer 5-28-26

New neighbor: Avalon Park

Seabreeze senior Summer Martin, Florida Virtual School senior Tyler Young and Seabreeze senior Logan Smith strike the same pose of a photo from when they all attended Tomoka Elementary School during the annual Senior Clap Out on Wednesday, May 20. Photo by Michele Meyers

NEWS BRIEFS

Lenny’s Pizza owner sentenced

Leonard Fries Jr. — a target of Operation: Summer Slammer who was arrested twice in 2025 following investigations by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit — has been convicted and sentenced to four-and-ahalf years in state prison.

Fries is the owner of Lenny’s Pizza in Ormond Beach.

On Feb. 18, Fries plead no contest to trafficking in cocaine, sale of cocaine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell, and possession of a Schedule I or III substance with intent to sell. On May 19, following his plea agreement, Circuit Judge Dawn Nichols adjudicated him guilty and issued his sentence.

“This guy put on a façade as a reputable business owner and law enforcement supporter but detectives and prosecutors proved that it was an act,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “If you’re peddling poison in Flagler County, no matter how good of an act you put on to hide your drug dealing, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office will find you and arrest you.”

Prior to his plea agreement, Fries faced 13 total charges. He was originally arrested on May 16, 2025, during a narcotics-related search warrant at his residence, then arrested again on additional charges on Aug. 22, 2025, after further investigation.

FCSO arrests man accused of assault on pregnant woman

The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance

of Daytona Beach Police, arrested a Palm Coast man last week on a felony warrant after an investigation determined he battered a pregnant woman, strangled her, and held her against her will inside a Palm Coast residence.

On May 18, deputies responded to a domestic disturbance call at a Palm Coast residence and contacted the victim, who reported a prolonged, violent assault by Damien Irven, 25, of Palm Coast. According to the victim, an argument that began over text messages escalated into an hours-long incident during which Irven physically assaulted her, strangled her to the point she could not breathe, and prevented her from leaving the residence. The victim told deputies she believed she was going to be killed and the assault lasted approximately five to six hours.

The victim also stated that Irven threatened to kill her during a phone call the following day if she reported the incident to law enforcement.

A warrant was issued for Irven’s arrest, and the FCSO Fugitive Apprehension Unit, in coordination with the Daytona Beach Police Department’s Violent Criminal Apprehension Team, located and arrested Irven on May 19 at an apartment complex in Daytona Beach. Irven was transferred to the Volusia County Jail, where he is being held for extradition to Flagler County. Irven has a previous conviction in Flagler County for domestic battery.

Annual Law Enforcement Memorial honors fallen officers

Law enforcement agencies remembered fallen officers during the 2026 Volusia and Flagler County Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony,

held on Thursday, May 21, at Daytona Memorial Park.

This year, the Port Orange Police Department served as the host agency, according to the POPD Facebook page.

“This annual ceremony is a solemn and vital tradition, bringing together law enforcement agencies, families, and community members from across both counties to remember, honor, and pay tribute to the brave heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty,” POPD wrote.

Port Orange Mayor Scott Stiltner was the keynote speaker. The Port Orange Police Department Honor Guard placed the memorial wreath.

The ceremony honored honored local officers and K-9s who have died since 1895, including Ormond Beach Police Officer Robert Grim, who died in 2004; and Cpl. Michael Bakaysa, who died in 2023. The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office honored six of its fallen officers: Sheriff Perry Hall and Deputy Sheriff George Durrance, both who died in 1927; Sheriff Homer Brooks, who died in 1965; Deputy Sheriff Charles T. Sease, who died in 2003; Sgt. Francesco Luigi Celico, who died in 2011; and Deputy First Class Paul Luciano, who died in 2021.

Life sentence

issued in fatal shooting of off-duty officer

During a May 18 hearing, Eduardo Labrada Machado pled no contest to first-degree murder and was sentenced to life in prison for the 2025 slaying of an off-duty Edgewater Police officer.

On September 15, 2025, Machado was working a shift at an Ormond-by-the-Sea convenience store. Shortly after off-duty Edgewater Police Officer David Jewell walked into the store, video surveil-

lance showed Machado leave and take a jacket out of the passenger side of his vehicle.

When he walked back into the store, he pulled out a gun from the jacket and opened fire on Jewell at the front counter.

Machado then stood over Jewell and shot him several more times in the head.

Jewell was shot a total of 20 times and died at the scene. Machado was arrested shortly after leaving the convenience store.

Machado told detectives that he was having a “rough start” to his day and thought about shooting Jewell, who lived nearby and frequented the store, during his drive to

COPS CORNER

MAY 15

‘A LITTLE BUZZED’

4:36 p.m. — 200 block of East Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach

DUI. Police arrested a 37-yearold Ormond Beach man who hit a pedestrian while drunk driving and then told police that he had been drinking on the beach and was “a little buzzed.”

According to his arrest report, the man said that he had drank this afternoon and that he “probably shouldn’t have been driving.”

He agreed to perform field sobriety exercises, which he either failed or was unable to complete. The pedestrian involved in the crash was transported to the hospital.

work.

“The stark brutality of this case shocked our entire community,” State Attorney R.J. Larizza said. “The defendant’s plea ensures he will never be released from prison. I hope that avoiding a long and painful trial process will give the family some measure of peace. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.”

Retired business executive enters Palm Coast City Council race

Jimmy Hengy, a retired business executive, has announced his candidacy for

MAY 18 A LIGHT SNOOZE

12:20 a.m. — Intersection of Old Kings Road North and Palm Coast Parkway, Palm Coast DUI. A Palm Coast man is facing a DUI charge after he was found asleep behind the wheel of his car at an intersection.

According to an arrest report, the deputy had to knock on the window repeatedly to wake the driver up and get him to place the car in park. But, the driver was so disoriented that he could not, instead turning on the windshield wipers, turn signals and turning the car on and off repeatedly.

Finally, the deputy had the driver open the car door so the deputy could physically point at the gear shift. The driver was then able to place it in park, the report said. Inside the car was an almost-empty plastic cup with alcohol.

the Palm Coast City Council District 2 seat. Hengy becomes the third candidate vying for the seat, joining Tony Amaral and Jeani Duarte.

According to a press release, Hengy has more than 40 years of experience in business development, management and operations. He said his campaign will focus on smart growth, infrastructure-first development, economic opportunity and environmental stewardship — protecting open spaces and wildlife.

He said he would bring a business incubator program to the city to nurture local companies and create wellpaying jobs.

“Palm Coast is at a crossroads,” he said in the press release. “We’re growing fast, and the decisions we make today will determine whether this city becomes the beautiful, well-managed community our residents deserve — or whether we lose the very qualities that brought us all here. I’m running because I believe we need experienced leadership with a clear plan, not just talk.”

Hengy was born in Michigan in 1961 and raised in South Florida. He founded a contract screen printing company in 1985, later acquired The Great Atlantic and Pacific Tee Shirt Company in Sebring, Florida, and went on to found IBG Enterprises and a fishing rod manufacturing division, the press release said.

MAY 20 FBI? DEA?

3 a.m. — 400 block of South Atlantic Avenue, Ormond Beach

Burglary. A 39-year-old Daytona Beach man was arrested after entering an empty hotel room, claiming to be working for a “three-letter agency.” Police report that the hotel’s security guard advised he was patrolling the parking lot when he spotted a sedan in the fire lane on May 19. He heard yelling from the fourth floor and eventually saw the suspect kicking a door down from an empty room. Surveillance footage later showed the man putting on a black tactical vest before the burglary. Police made contact with the suspect on May 20 after he was later during a traffic stop. During the transport, the man told officers about “being in that place to do a search warrant.” He was taken to jail.

Ormond Beach Police Officer Courtney Grimes salutes during the Volusia Flagler Law Enforcement Memorial on Thursday, May 21.

Photo courtesy of Pauline Dulang/Ormond Beach Police

Palm Coast City Council candidate Jimmy Hengy. Courtesy photo

Ormond Beach Police Sgt. Caleb Braun salutes during the Volusia Flagler Law Enforcement Memorial on Thursday, May 21. Photo courtesy of Pauline Dulang/Ormond Beach Police

Tell their stories

The names etched in stone memorials across the country aren’t just names, said retired U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Don Felt.

JARLEENE

ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

“They represent a soldier, a sailor, an airman, a marine, a coast guardsman or a merchant marine as we’re honoring today, and they represent their families,” Felt said. “...

The number of those affected by their loss far exceeds that 1.3 million.”

Felt, of Daytona Beach, was the keynote speaker during the Ormond Beach Memorial Day Remembrance Service on Monday, May 25, at Rockefeller Gardens. Featuring live music by the Daytona Beach Concert Band, the ceremony consisted of wreath presentations, a flyover by the Spruce Creek Gaggle Flight, the tolling of eight bells, a rifle salute by the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1048 Honor

Guard, and a rendering of

Amazing Grace by the Coastal Florida Police and Fire Pipes and Drums.

In addition to the VVA, several other groups participated in the remembrance ceremony, including American Legion Post 267, the Capt. James Ormond Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Ormond Beach Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol, the DaytonaOrmond Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, Ormond Strong and Scout Troops 65, 88 and 717.

“It is particularly important that we honor the men and women of Ormond Beach, the surrounding communities, and our nation who have answered the call to serve our country through military service,” said retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. R. Bancroft McKittrick, who opened the

ceremony. “On this day, we remember the fallen and the liberties and the freedoms we enjoy, thanks to the sacrifices of so many generations of men and women made on our behalf.”

Felt served in the Army for 30 years before retiring. During his three decades of service, he held every leadership position within the infantry, from fire team leader to division command sergeant major, according to his bio. He served as command sergeant major during two deployments in Iraq.

During his address, Felt spoke about an 18-year-old soldier who was wounded while overseas in Iraq. The soldier, Steven Cornford, stayed by his lieutenant’s side as he died in combat.

“I could see the pain in Cornford’s eyes,” Felt recalled. “The doctors, the nurses, the surgery, the morphine — they had taken care of his physical pain, but the pain I could see in his face was because he had failed to save his lieutenant’s life. I told him, ‘Cornford, you did everything that I’ve ever asked you to do. I’m proud of you.’ I was proud of him then. I’m proud of them now.”

Cornford is a hero, Felt said, but Memorial Day is to remember men like his lieutenant, Phillip Neel, a native of Fredericksburg, Maryland, and West Point graduate.

Neel is one of the more than 1.3 million Americans who have died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

“Say their name, remember their sacrifice, tell their story, and pray for their families,” Felt said. “God bless our men and women in uniform, and may those who we memorialize today rest in peace.”

The Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1048 presents the colors. Photos by Jarleene Almenas

Ormond Beach City Commissioner Harold Briley.

The Spruce Creek Gaggle Flight performs a flyover.

The Daytona Beach Concert Band performs.

Retired U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Don Felt

VVA Chapter 1048 Giles Blais.

Ormond Beach honors the fallen during annual Memorial Day Remembrance Service.

Deputy Mayor Lori Tolland places a carnation in honor of fallen service members.

Ormond Beach Mayor Jason Leslie.

VVA Chapter 1048 member Bob Bendlin.

A citizen puts his hand over his heart.

Chaplain Bryant Thorpe, commander of American Legion 380.

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Ormond to circle back to FAA about reopening River Bend Golf Course

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These are questions several past and present Ormond Beach city commissioners have ruminated on for almost six years, since River Bend Golf Course closed its doors in December 2020, following a declaration of bankruptcy by its last operator.

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Ormond Beach Mayor Jason Leslie revisited the conversation at the commission’s meeting on Tuesday, May 19, asking if the city could put out a bid document to gauge interest for a new operator.

“Can we just at least have an RFP that we could put out — as is, without doing any kind of work to the property, any kind of building or construction — and just finding out if there is somebody out there that might be interested in this, so we can really put this topic to rest once and for all,” Leslie said. “And it shows that we at least tried, and then we can kind of move on to whatever we’re going to do with the property so that it can generate income that will go back into the Airport Fund.”

But the 172-acre golf course sits on airport property, meaning reopening it isn’t as simple as seeking a new operator — the Federal Aviation Administration needs to be on board. Before any non-aeronautical use of the property is considered, the FAA wants to see an update to the city’s airport master plan projecting 20 years of aviation demand to show that a non-aeronautical use, like a golf course, won’t interfere with current or future aviation needs. The city’s current airport master plan runs through 2034.

When the golf course closed in 2020, federal policy didn’t allow the use to automatically continue or be reestablished, City Economic Development Director Brian Rademacher said in an email to the Observer. The land use reverts back to being reserved for aviation purposes unless and until the FAA approves an alternative.

“In practical terms, that means the city is not in a

position to move forward with proposals for non-aeronautical uses — such as a golf course redevelopment — until those FAA-required studies are finished and reviewed,” Rademacher said.

And, if an interested operator is found, city officials say they would need to be willing to invest millions of dollars to rehab the golf course, without land ownership rights. A previous appraisal of the property estimated it would need $7 million in improvements.

Leslie asked if the city could sell the property, but that option would also need FAA approval and a master plan update.

“Let’s not get too far over the skis, because the FAA is going to have an awful lot to say about it,” City Attorney Randy Hayes said. “What they’re likely going to want to know, ‘OK, city, if you sell it, what purpose are you going to sell it for?’”

City staff indicated anything the commission wants to do with the property is subject to FAA approval.

“From the FAA perspective, it’s all about the airport — that’s the bottom line,” Hayes said.

Advisories issued by the FAA in 2020 and 2022 appear to dissuade golf courses near airports. The 2020 advisory states that golf courses attract hazardous wildlife that can pose a threat to aviation safety, and recommended against the new construction of golf courses if determined they would create such hazards.

The 2022 advisory additionally stated that uses such as golf courses that include water or wildlife habitat features “need to be prevented or mitigated.”

On attracting a new operator, Leslie said there might be one out that doesn’t want ownership of the land to avoid liabilities.

“I just think, though, that we owe it to the community

Commissioner Travis Sargent said he asked about two years ago to get a “black and white” response from the FAA on whether or not the golf course can be reopened. Before putting out a bid, he said the city should pursue a concrete answer.

But the commission needs concrete information about future plans before the FAA says yes or no, Hayes said.

“We can ask again, and we’ll probably get the same reply, which is going to be a non-answer to the question, really,” Hayes said.

After some more discussion, the commission directed staff to send a letter to the FAA asking if the city could have a newly constructed golf course on the property.

“They may come back with a non-answer,” City Manager Joyce Shanahan said.

In his email, Rademacher said that city officials’ actions since the closure of the golf course have followed federal framework.

“That has included coordinating directly with the FAA, commissioning a professional land-use analysis, submitting required documentation, and avoiding unilateral decisions about the property’s future,” he said. “In other words, the process has been driven by compliance requirements rather than local preference.

“At the same time, the city should consider a diverse strategy for the property that could support the airport’s long-term financial sustainability,” Rademacher continued. “Dedicating more than 100 acres to a single user at past rental rates — roughly $100,000 annually — may not be the most effective way to maximize revenue, particularly given the airport’s need to repay prior capital investments borrowed from the general fund.”

River Bend Golf Course has been closed since its last operator filed for bankruptcy in December 2020. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Farmers market minstrel

James A. performs at the Ormond Beach Farmers Market. Visit the Ormond Beach Observer’s Facebook page to watch our short documentary on the weekly gathering. Photo by Rachel Mills

The project is projected to add over 1 million square feet in commercial and nonresidential space.

SIERRA WILLIAMS

STAFF WRITER

The Daytona Beach City Commission has approved the massive Avalon Park development rezoning of 2,760 acres, paving the way for over 8,800 new homes.

The development had previously been approved for over 3,250 homes in 2018, and has been described as “a city within a city.” In addition to the increase in residential homes, Avalon Park will have over 1 million square feet of commercial and other nonresidential space, according to the May 20 Daytona Beach Commission meeting documents.

The development, located west of Interstate 95 and south of State Road 40, will be built out in multiple phases. with Phase 1 including the buildout of Avalon Park Boulevard from S.R. 40 to Tymber Creek Road, 2,032 residential units,

NEWS BRIEFS

Habitat for Humanity, Volusia County team up to deliver homes to four veterans

90,000 square feet of mixeduse buildings, meeting documents stated.

The approval included the annexation and rezoning of a 28-acre lot of land into Daytona Beach and the Avalon Park development. The City Commission approved the rezoning request and annexation in three unanimous votes.

“A project like this, there’s a long-term vision, they’re creating a community,” Commissioner Monica Paris said.

“This is something that we know is going to be contained within itself, and there’s also public benefits with roads being built and infrastructure being put in. So, when projects like this come before us, I know what I’m voting on.”

Zone 4 Commissioner Stacy Cantu — whose district includes Avalon Park — said the developer will be adding $120 million in road infrastructure to the area. Avalon Park will also, she said, be built out over a 20- to 25-year span. The development also includes land set aside for a police substation, a fire substation and, if needed, a charter school.

The developer is also required to put the road infrastructure in place before they

Four local veterans will soon have a place to call home, thanks to a partnership between West Volusia Habitat for Humanity and Volusia County’s Volusia Values Veterans Program. Habitat for Humanity is completing construction on four houses on East Walts Avenue in DeLand, with Volusia County Veterans Services staff and local

are allowed to move onto the next phase, she said.

Cantu argued these were benefits for Daytona and resident, though some Daytona Beach and Ormond Beach residents said the roads, infrastructure, substations and school would only benefit the residents of the city within a city.

Ormond Beach resident Ted Rhodes said Avalon Park will add 20,000 people to the area.

“That’s a lot, especially on the road where I live,” he said. It’s a fallacy that growth increases revenues to the point where it increases quality of life.”

Traffic was a major concern for the Ormond Beach residents in attendance, and several residents near Avalon Park requested the Daytona Beach Commission require Avalon Park not use Booth Road for any construction activities.

Booth Road is a residential and commercial road on the south side of West Granada Boulevard. Cantu included the requirement in her motion to approve the Avalon Park rezoning.

Avalon Park will likely create more than 27,000 construction jobs, $30 million of

volunteers lending a hand for the final push.

Five Volusia County veterans services officers and a corrections officer joined fellow veterans for a two-day volunteer effort May 21 and 22, painting and landscaping the homes.

Volusia County’s involvement extended well beyond the volunteer days. The coun-

impact fee revenue for Daytona Beach, and, at buildout, over $13 million in sales tax revenue, $70 million in ad valorem tax revenue and over 2,600 full-time jobs, according to a a letter from the firm England-Thims & Miller, representing Avalon Park.

Despite the approval of the

ty’s Community Assistance Division provided $79,400 in State Housing Initiatives Partnership funds to Habitat for Humanity to help fund construction. The households may also receive assistance funding to help with the downpayment. Veterans Services staff also helped identify veterans for the program and promoted fundraising events supporting the builds.

Some of the new homeowners came through Halifax Urban Ministries’ Barracks

City Commission, Avalon Park is still facing the legal roadblock of a federal lawsuit with the City of Ormond Beach over utilities.

Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry said he was not going to deny that the growth could be “painful in some ways,” and he understands the frustration of traffic on Granada Boulevard. But, he said, Daytona Beach is now in a spot where it is able to attract a developer like Avalon Park, after years of slow growth.

of Hope program, which provides transitional housing to veterans who have faced homelessness, addiction, and mental health challenges West Volusia Habitat for Humanity is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization whose vision is a world where everyone has a safe, comfortable place to live.

Families and individuals in need of decent, affordable housing can apply for homeownership with West Volusia Habitat for Humanity.

“I have waited all of my life for Daytona Beach to grow up,” Henry said.

“Stable housing is one of the most powerful tools we have for supporting veterans in our community,” said Scott Olson, director of Volusia County Veterans Services. “The Volusia Values Veterans Program exists to connect our veteran neighbors with resources, and – with a little help from fellow veterans who showed up to paint and plant – this is exactly what this program is about.” Learn more at www.volusia. org/V3P.

An aerial view of the Avalon Park development in Daytona Beach. Courtesy of City of Daytona Beach

From left: Veterans Services Officers Juan Flores, Jose Da Silva and Shane Gross; Veterans Services Director Scott Olson; West Volusia Habitat for Humanity CEO Mandy Shrader; Veterans Services Officer Greg Burgess; and Corrections Officer Anthony Whited with his son, Ashton Whited. Courtesy photo

DSC opens new honors, nursing hall

The new QuantaHonors & Health Technology Hall

‘reflects what Daytona State does best,’ DSC’s president said.

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

With the unveiling of Daytona State College’s new QuantaHonors & Health Technology Hall, nursing and honors students at DSC will have access to a collaborative and handson education designed to help them succeed.

“This building reflects what Daytona State does best, bringing together opportunity, innovation, and community to prepare our students for what comes next,” DSC President Thomas LoBasso said.

The new building houses both the Quanta-Honors College and the school’s nursing program. The hall, originally opened in 1974, was closed after Hurricane Ian in 2022, and the school took the opportunity to “create something that reflects who we are today and where we are going,” LoBasso said at the May 21 ribbon cutting.

“The result is the QuantaHonors College and the Health Technology Hall,” LoBasso said. “A modern, purposebuilt space that showcases the strength and scope of our programs.”

The Honors College is housed on the second floor of the building while the nursing program classes are on the ground floor. The nursing program now includes an immersive simulation program that will help students gain practical training.

“Becoming a nurse requires more than knowledge,”

LoBasso said. “It requires confidence, precision, and the ability to perform under pressure. This starts with handson training in an environment that feels real.”

Dr. Maxine Hicks, dean of the DSC’s Allen School of Nursing, said the simulation lab will play a vital role in elevating the nursing students’ readiness. The nursing classrooms are equipped with advanced hospital technology, including electronic medication dispensers to artificial intelligence-enhanced simulators.

DSC’s nursing program, she said, has consistently had a state board pass rate above 95%, and it is now the second largest nursing program in Florida. DSC nursing graduates are in high demand by local healthcare partners.

“Our graduates are truly practice ready,” Hicks said. The simulations are a script-driven experience where teachers man a control room, controlling the mannequins inside the “hospital rooms.” The students can ask the “patients” questions about their symptoms and pain levels, and the teachers are able to respond as the “patients,” to give more information as the students work to diagnose and treat.

These simulations closely mirror real world practice, Hicks said.

“Our immediate goal is to earn national accreditation for this simulation center. Currently, only about a dozen centers across Florida hold this honor,” she said.

DSC District Board of Trustees Chairman Randy Howard said the new hall is an example of Trustee’s mission to ensure students are prepared to succeed.

Employers are looking for people who can think critically, communicate effectively, work collaboratively and solve problems, Howard said.

“That is exactly the kind of environment that Quanta Honors College strives to create,” he said.

Quanta-Honors College

Chairman Ben Graydon said the college is called “Quanta” after an idea in quantum mechanics that how someone understands a matter depends on how one looks at it.

“Quanta-Honors & Health Technology Hall puts our program close to the center of campus, the perfect spot for launching the next generation of students centered on community connection, working together to learn and grow,” Graydon said. “We can’t wait to get started.”

Hammock Gardens nursery turns 20

As part of its anniversary celebrations, the nursery is offering summer camps.

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Over the last 20 years, Hammock Gardens has certainly grown and changed, owner Janine Regina said.

Regina and her husband Mike Fonesca purchased the property from the previous owner in 2006. For the last two decades, the garden center has gone through different stages, including offering landscaping services alongside the nursery, florist and gift shop.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, they’ve dropped the landscaping service, but, Regina said, that has given them the opportunity to focus on the garden center and florist: adding walkways, changing structures, adding more inventory.

Being a small business in a small community means the couple has gotten to know their customers and hear their positive feedback.

“It’s also just nice getting to know everybody in the area. So we really appreciate people shopping with us,” Regina said.

Around 2006, the couple was visiting Regina’s parents who live in The Hammock, and fell in love with the area.

That’s also when the Hammock Gardens property went up for sale, Regina said.

“We just kind of fell in love with the property, basically the area, the old oak trees and everything,” she said.

As a way to celebrate the anniversary, the couple has

Session two, “Gnome Sweet Gnome,” allows campers to build their own miniature gnome gardens, while the final session, “Wild Cafe,” explores the world of backyard birds and plants. The three sessions run individually from June 8-12, June 15-19 and June 22-26. Each session costs $198 per child, or $185 each for two or more sessions. Each class lasts from 9 a.m. to noon and around six seats are left for each session.

hosted more educational workshops in the spring.

When the weather cools off, Regina said, they plan to host an event in the fall, as well as introducing more workshops.

“And a lot of educational ones,” she said. “People seem to love that.”

HAMMOCK GARDENS TO OFFER SUMMER CAMPS

As part of that celebration, Hammock Gardens has organized three week-long summer camp sessions for children 7-12 years old.

Regina said the camps combine art and gardening, a combination that she said goes hand-in-hand. The camps allow the children to explore with clay, paint, watercolor and more alongside learning about plants and creating their own gardens.

“They (the children) just light up when they create these gardens, and I feel like, ‘OK, we’re teaching our future,’” she said. The summer camps each tackle something different, she said. The first session, Garden Party for Pollinators, lets children create a “garden party” designed for pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Parents can pre-register their children by calling the florist at 386-446-9154 or coming into the store. All materials and plants are included in the price and kids are asked to bring a snack and drink.

And for those who may not be able to afford the full cost of a summer camp session, Regina said the Palm Coast Garden Club has supplied some scholarships funds to cover some of the costs. This is not the first year Hammock Gardens has hosted a summer camp, but they have occasionally been sporadic. But Regina said, as a former art teacher, she loves the opportunity to continue teaching.

Both art and gardening are important for children, she said. The summer camps are an opportunity to educate kids in a fun way about plants and animals, while letting them express themselves through different mediums.

In this day and age, Regina said, it’s important to show children to explore things outside of their tablets and devices, to encourage a broader understanding and comprehension.

“Everything works together, and I just have always been an advocate about teaching a well-rounded student, not just in one thing,” Regina said.

Megan Bagwell, MD OB/GYN Daytona Beach

Tonusri Nag, DO Interventional Cardiology DeLand

Beibei Oelrich, MD Urology New Smyrna Beach

Brett Sasseen, MD Interventional Cardiology Palm Coast and St. Augustine

Justin Wage, MD Radiation Oncology Palm Coast

Daytona State College unveiled its new Quanta-Honors & Health Technology Hall at its Daytona Beach campus. Photo by Sierra Williams

Janine Regina and mike Fonesca, owners of the Hammock Gardens. Courtesy photo

Spill the tea: Goodrich uplifts PWFC

Professional Women of Flagler County holds annual Tea Party.

BRIAN MCMILLAN PUBLISHER

To find success, keynote speaker Krista Goodrich told the sold-out audience at the Professional Women of Flagler County’s annual Tea Party on May 20, women need to do one thing they’re probably not too comfortable

with: “We have to start talking about money,” she said. Goodrich, who has owned over 20 companies and is currently representing District 2 (Daytona Beach), on the Volusia County School Board, said her life’s mission is to empower women to believe in themselves.

“And that includes helping them to become financially savvy,” she said, on the stage at Barletts Restaurant, in The Hammock. “Because I believe that every woman, with the right mindset, can create the greatest life she’s ever imagined.”

Empowerment includes being able to pay your own bills and, eventually, supporting the causes you care about, she said. To get to that point, “If you’re not good at money, I want you to talk about it” with people who are good at it.

The Tea Party’s auction raised over $10,000 for the PWFC’s Go Girl Grants.

Among past winners who spoke were Lacy Martin, whose nonprofit 911 Memorial Tribute Climb Inc. recently gave out four scholarships to graduating high school

seniors; and Noami Beggelman, who owns Bunnell Range.

Beggelman said her $1,000 grant helped her to complete an archery range at Bunnell Range. As a result, she is able to focus on adding programming.

“I couldn’t have accomplished it without the help of you guys,” she said, adding, “I’m young, but I’m striving to build more.”

PWFC is led this year by President Erika Equizi, Kelly Chapman, Tracie Cotto, Kay Click, Amy Dumas and Vanessa Cole. Visit professional womenflagler.org.

The Pocket Jeweler has new owner

Ormond store was sold to Abiud Rivera, a longtime local jeweler.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

The Pocket Jeweler in Ormond Beach is under new ownership.

Locals Scott and Shannon McLeish opened their jewelry store in 2013, and after a 13-year run, decided it was time to retire this year. But they didn’t want to see their business leave the downtown.

“A downtown needs a jewelry store,” Shannon said. “You have to have it.”

So for the local family, finding the right person to take over after their retirement was important.

They found that person in Abiud Rivera, a local master bench jeweler with about 45 years of industry experience, 30 of which have been in Volusia County.

Shannon had just advertised on Facebook in March that they were interested in selling The Pocket Jeweler when she got a call from her husband. Scott asked her if she remembered the jeweler who worked at the window at Jessup’s on Beach Street.

“Back even before we opened, he was talking about Abiud in the window,” Shannon recalled.

The Pocket Jeweler specialized in retail, including estate pieces. Before opening their own store, the McLeishes used to sell jewelry wholesale.

That’s how their store’s name came to be, Shannon

store in South Florida to sell a diamond, and the jeweler said, “Oh, you’re a pocket jeweler.”

“Meaning, he was operating out of his pocket,” Shannon said.

Selling The Pocket Jeweler to Rivera brings a new service to the store: custom work.

The jewelry industry runs in Rivera’s family. His father was a jeweler in New York City, and after his death, his uncle took him in as an apprentice in his jewelry store.

Rivera has worked for several jewelers in Volusia County, but he’d always wanted his own business.

For 13 years, Rivera said he’d drive by The Pocket Jeweler in Ormond Beach and say how much he loved the store.

“I love that name because it resonates with me, also,” Rivera said. “Pocket Jeweler — because many times I used to sell from my pocket.”

Scott and Shannon had interested buyers from all over the country — as far as Denver, Colorado. People flew down to see the store with a couple days’ notice because owning a jewelry store in a downtown district is a unique opportunity, Shannon said.

However, the McLeishes wanted their buyer to carry on the same sense of community they held during their years in business. Shannon served on the Ormond MainStreet board and was part of Citizens for Ormond Beach. The Pocket Jeweler was a regular participant in events in the downtown, like Christmas in July.

“That’s why Scott was so happy that Abiud was interested, as he’s got long-term roots here in Volusia County,

in Volusia County,” Shannon said. “They’re family-oriented and community-oriented, and that’s really what we wanted to see.” Rivera, of Port Orange, will operate the store with his wife Aileen and their daughter Alianys. Their mission is to continue what Scott and Shannon built while adding expertise in creating custom jewelry pieces.

“I love the bench,” Rivera said. “I know I’m going to die at the bench. I love detail. I love making people happy. I love bringing vision to life.”

Samantha Adams, Stephanie Ellis, Selina Hernandez and Madison Asbill.

Anna Wieczorek and Amanda Redwine. Photos by Brian McMillan

The Rivera family: Abiud, Aileen

Shannon McLeish and Abiud Rivera. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Krista Goodrich.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Watering limits plus more housing: It doesn’t add up.

Dear Editor:

Palm Coast residents are being told to conserve water and limit landscape irrigation to one day per week because of ongoing water supply concerns. Most homeowners understand the need for conservation and are willing to do their part.

What is difficult to understand, however, is how the same city leadership asking existing residents to sacrifice continues approving massive new residential developments at a rapid pace. Every new subdivision brings hundreds of additional homes, each requiring water for daily living, irrigation, pools, and infrastructure. The math simply does not add up.

If our current water resources are already strained to the point that homeowners can only irrigate once a week, then where will the water come from to support hundreds of additional residents? Existing homeowners should not bear the burden of conservation while unchecked growth continues without adequate long-term planning for water infrastructure and supply. Growth itself is not the enemy. Irresponsible growth is. That means ensuring roads, schools, emergency services, and especially water resources are in place before approving more large-scale development projects. Residents deserve answers. Has the city fully evaluated the long-term impact these developments will have on our water? What guarantees exist that current residents will not face even stricter restrictions in the future? At what point does growth outpace sustainability? Asking residents to con-

serve while simultaneously accelerating development sends conflicting messages and raises legitimate concerns about priorities and planning.

Citizens are doing their part. It is time for city leadership to demonstrate the same level of responsibility.

JOHN NEGOVETICH Palm Coast

Win or lose, perception of Mullins won’t change

Dear Editor: He’s back. Just when we thought former Flagler Commissioner Joe Mullins had faded into the sunset of unwelcome politicos, we learn he is suing FlaglerLive for defamation. These kinds of free speech and First Amendment attacks are unfortunately in vogue, but lawsuits, when they arise, are often quashed by the courts when they relate to critiques of politicians and public figures.

For those that appreciate FlaglerLive and especially those that are freedom-ofthe-press supporters and First Amendment advocates, you can contribute to FlaglerLive’s legal defense. Its website has the particulars. Hopefully, the Observer also recognizes the threat level this kind of litigation raises and will editorialize its support for FlaglerLive, as well.

ED GARDNER Palm Coast

Mullins lawsuit is an assault on First Amendment rights

Dear Editor: Surely many of us are flabbergasted and appalled by former Flagler County Commissioner Joe Mullins’

lawsuit against FlaglerLive and its editor for libel. Mullins appears to be in lockstep with the First Amendment assault on the media, and even late night comedy free speech, we are sadly experiencing nationwide.

Mullins became an infamous presence known for outrageous behavior. And that behavior was documented, not only by FlaglerLive, but by the Observer and even national news. FlaglerLive commentary included Mullins’ own spoken and recorded words, court records, and videos of his shenanigans.

FlaglerLive has always done well with the facts while at times mixing in some left leaning commentary and opinion. And that does not rise to the legal “high bar” level of libel that requires a statement to be entirely and objectively false.

Opinions usually don’t count. The libel burden of proof is even more stringent for public officials, candidates and celebrities that mostly flips the proof burden to the plaintiff. It also adds “actual malice” to the requisite in that a statement was known to be false with a reckless disregard for the truth. Failing to meet the criteria in a libel lawsuit, especially against a public official or candidate, is often considered without merit and promptly dismissed by the court. The FlaglerLive case seems to have a good shot at prompt dismissal.

Mullins’ attorney, Anthony Sabatini, is no stranger to accusations of filing frivolous actions. He previously gained a reputation and received a judge’s warning of possible sanctions for filing “frivolous” lawsuits that were often perceived as having political motivations. We also recall Sabatini as the attorney chosen by our

Endorsement for Kristin Deaton

Dear Editor:

On behalf of the members of I.U.P.A. Local 6075, I am proud to offer our endorsement of Commissioner Kristin Deaton.

In my role as Union President, I work closely with city leadership on issues that directly impact public safety, officer welfare, and the quality of service we provide to our community. Commissioner Deaton has consistently demonstrated a clear understanding of these priorities and a willingness to stand alongside the men and women who serve on the front lines.

Commissioner Deaton has been a steady and reliable partner in supporting policies that strengthen public safety. Just as important, she recognizes the importance of fair working conditions, open dialogue, and mutual respect between city leadership and law enforcement personnel.

What sets Commissioner Deaton apart is her accessibility and straightforward approach. She listens, she shows up, and she engages honestly — even when conversations are difficult. That kind of leadership builds trust.

[Palm Coast Mayor Mike Norris] to file suit against the city of Palm Coast that was promptly dismissed by the court. And not long ago, Sabatini was sanctioned by a court for filing a case with “factual assertions which were not true and an incorrect legal theory equating to a frivolous claim.” As a result, he was ordered to pay the defendant’s legal costs, a result that many of us would

Our members have seen first-hand Commissioner Deaton’s commitment to balancing accountability with support for law enforcement.

For these reasons, the members of I.U.P.A. Local 6075 fully support Commissioner Deaton and appreciate their continued leadership and partnership.

RHETT SUMMERLOT

President of IUPA Local 6075

RAY LLANES

Vice president of IUPA Local 6075

Endorsements for Deaton, Tolland

City Commissioner Kristin Deaton and Deputy Mayor Lori Tolland have both been endorsed in their races by by the Ormond Beach Firefighter’s Association, IAFF Local 3499. Deaton is running for reelection is Zone 3. Tolland is running for Ormond Beach mayor.

Endorsement for Gambaro

Former Ocala Mayor and City Councilman Kent Guinn has endorsed Palm Coast City Councilman Charles Gambaro for U.S. Congress, District 6.

hope to see in the Mullins lawsuit for its likely frivolity. Actually, both Sabatini, and Mullins in particular, risk an order to pay FlaglerLive’s legal expenses. FlaglerLive has been a long-time daily staple for so many in our community with its insightful stories, local news, editorials, investigative journalism, finely crafted wordsmithing and of course the daily political

cartoons. But most importantly, whether you agree or disagree with FlaglerLive content or perspective, we should all abhor this assault on its First Amendment rights.

BOB GORDON Palm Coast

Send letters up to 400 words to jarleene@observerlocalnews.com.

Honoring Life's Journey with Grace

Cremation & Traditional Funeral Services

Why Pay More for the Same Services?

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And while many competitors also add a 3% credit card processing fee on every payment, Lotus Funeral Services charges no credit card fees – ever.

Before making a decision, we encourage you to ask any funeral home you’re considering:

1. What are your processing or document fees?

2.Do you add credit card processing fees to transactions?

3.Are there any additional service or administrative charges I should expect?

You’ll quickly see the Lotus difference. No hidden fees. No surprises. Just genuine care at a fair price.

Palm Coast historian Art Dycke was 92, not 91, when he died.

NEED FOR SPEED

The sun was blazing. The sweat was dripping. The candy was flying.

A total of 23 teams and 46 students took part in Pathways Elementary’s 21st annual “Most Spectacular Awe Inspiring Derby” on Thursday, May 21. As is tradition, the fifth graders competed in “future” cars (new to the derby) and “classic” cars, which have competed in the past.

This year’s race featured 20 new derby cars — a record, according to Pathways Elementary teacher Matt Coleman, who organizes the race every year.

Students took part in a car parade, two drift races and a push race. This year’s grand marshal was retired Ormond Beach Police Capt. DW Smith.

–JARLEENE ALMENAS

This year’s derby winners were:

PATHWAYS SPIRIT

First place: Heelers, MacKenzie

Madison and Maci Villarreal

Second place: Awesome Americans, Teagan Royer and Nova Weston

Third place: 101 Dalmatians, Alanna Petreska and Jocelyn Powell

MOST TEAM SPIRIT

First place: 101 Dalmatians, Alanna Petreska and Jocelyn Powell

Second place: Ketchup, Leifur Arnason and Barry Kra

Third place: Team Radioactive, Sawyer Niswander and Adrian Stefancik

Vandervoort and Kyler Grant

Second place: Awesome Americans, Teagan Royer and Nova

Weston

Third place: Ketchup, Leifur Arnason and Barry Kra

PUSH RACE (CLASSIC CAR)

First place: Sports Sisters, Addison Whiting and Delsa Tabatabaei

Second place: Cloud 9 Cowgirls, Whitley Klarich and Vivienne Ellery

Third place: Strawberry Sisters, Joyce Hardy and Marina Rosenberg

PUSH RACE (FUTURE CAR)

First place: Ketchup, Leifur Arnason and Barry Kra

Addison Whiting and Delsa Tabatabaei are team Sports Sisters.

Leifur Arnason and Barry Kral are team Ketchup.

Vivienne Ellery and Whitley Klarich are team Cloud 9 Cowgirls.

Retired Ormond Beach Police Capt. DW Smith acted as the grand marshal.

Michael Walsh and Grayson Sypian are ready for the second drift race.

Team 101 Dalmatians: Alanna Petreska and Jocelyn Powell

Lucas Upson and Luka Knisley, of team Oops We Crashed Again.

Above: McKenzie Long and Mia Gilbert, of team Cherry Bloom. Right: Pathways Elementary third grade teacher and Derby organizer Matt Coleman.

FOCUS ON FAITH

Volusia churches to give free groceries to seniors

Calvary Christian Church in Ormond Beach, the Daytona Dream Center, Second Harvest Food Bank and WAPN

91.5 FM Holly Hill will join forces on Friday, May 29, to distribute free groceries at the church’s campus at 1687

W. Granada Blvd. Distribution will begin at 11 a.m. and will run until supplies last.

Want to volunteer? Te Daytona Dream Center is asking churches, businesses, organizations and college groups to come lend a hand during the food drop. Volunteer call time is 9 a.m.

CORPORATE OFFICE - 386-677-SOLD (7653)

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

BEACHSIDE OFFICE - 386-441-SOLD (7653)

2110 Ocean Shore Blvd., Ste. B, Ormond Beach, FL 32176

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

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

Built in 2022, this custom 4BR, 2 full bath, 2 half bath ICF home offers approximately 2,900 sq ft of panoramic Atlantic views. Features vaulted ceilings, chef’s kitchen, elevator, and an oversized RV/boat garage. Upgrades include a wholehouse Generac generator & water filtration. Direct beach access steps away! #1226003 $1,450,000. Patti McKinley 386-235-0462.

Upgraded Parrot floor plan 2BR/2BA + enclosed den & flex space with stunning pond views. Features include quartz countertops, gas cooktop, wall oven, crown molding, Mohawk laminate flooring, oversized tiled shower, screened lanai with pavers, gas hookup & resort-style amenities including private beach club & shuttle! #1224635 $615,000. Shannon Brooks 386-481-0901.

5BR/6BA estate on 1 acre in Ormond Beach with 4+ car garage, saltwater pool, and spa. Nearly 10,500 total sq ft with soaring ceilings, chef’s kitchen, game room, office, and multiple living areas. Primary suite on main level, all bedrooms en-suite. Balcony, summer kitchen, generator. Option for additional acre. #1225121 $2,200,000. Amy Beals 386-852-1400.

Beautiful 2021-built home offering 4BR/2BA and 1,836 sq ft of modern living space. Open-concept kitchen and living area create a bright, spacious feel perfect for entertaining. Situated on a .25-acre lot on a quiet paved street, quick access to I-4, Orlando, and Florida beaches. Move-in ready! #1224194 $334,900. Kevin Rybicki 386-547-9445.

Beautiful beachside home featuring 3BR/2BA with impact windows & doors, 10’ ceilings, quartz countertops, stainless appliances & open split floor plan. Spacious owner’s suite with dual walkin closets, screened porch with hot tub, outdoor shower & newer A/C. Short walk to no-drive beach & new dune walkover! #1226498 $669,000. Debbie Carter 386-506-1810.

3BR/3BA pool home in sought-after Hunters Ridge. 3-car garage, heated pool, and open split floor plan with high ceilings. Dedicated home office and spacious gourmet kitchen open to main living areas. Primary suite with dual closets and spa-style bath. Near top schools, trails, and minutes to the beach. #1224366 $634,000. Lindsey Wolf 407-432-3849.

SEAS’s Father Jose on ‘Sacred Heart’

Father Jose Panthaplamthottiyil, lead pastor at Palm Coast’s St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, reflects on the month of June, which is the Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. He wrote: “The Sacred Heart devotion is not merely about saying

LOCAL EVENTS

THURSDAY, MAY 28

BEATS AND EATS

When: 6-8 p.m.

Where: The Stage at Town Center,1500 Central Ave. Palm Coast

Details: Beats and Eats is a new monthly community event that combines the familiar Food Truck Tuesday experience with live concert entertainment from the Palm Coast Concert Series. The band on May 28 is Soul Fire and the beneficiary will be the Hispanic American Cultural Association.

FRIDAY, MAY 29

TIRE AMNESTY DAYS

When: 3-6 p.m. Friday, May 29; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 30; and 12-6 p.m. Sunday, May 31

Where: East Flagler Mosquito Control, 210 Fin Way, Palm Coast

Details: Recycle your old tires and prevent mosquitoes. Open to all Flagler County residents with proof of residency. Limit 24 tires per resident; no rims.

SATURDAY, MAY 30

BUTTERFLIES FOR BEGINNERS

When: 10-11 a.m.

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

Details: Join a park ranger for an informative stroll down “butterfly lane,” where you’ll learn the basics of butterfly identification, observation tips and field practices. Program included with park entry fee.

CUP OF GRACE RETREAT

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Flagler County Association of Realtors Building, 4101 E. Moody Blvd., Bunnell Details: Join Vincent’s

certain prayers or displaying a picture. It is an invitation to grow closer to Jesus Himself. It calls us to trust more deeply in His love, spend time with Him in prayer and Eucharistic adoration, receive the sacraments faithfully, practice charity and forgiveness, and make reparation for sin. The more we come closer to the Heart of Jesus, the more our

Clubhouse for an afternoon created for the women who spend so much of themselves caring for others. Lunch and refreshments will be served. A $20 donation is requested. Visit VincentsClubhouse.org.

FOURTH HISPANIC FOOD AND ART FEST

When: 12-7 p.m.

Where: Central Park at Town Center, 975 Central Ave., Palm Coast

Details: The Hispanic American Cultural Society is hosting this event, featuring cuisines from different hispanic and non-hispanic countries. See and listen to folkloric dances, arts and crafts and music. Free.

TUESDAY, JUNE 2

WRANGLER ON THE WAY

When: 10:30 a.m.

Where: Daytona Beach Regional Library, 105 Jackie Robinson Parkway, Daytona Beach

Details: Gatorland’s animal wranglers will visit the library, and they’re not coming alone. Free.

AMERICA250 KICKOFF

When: 2 p.m.

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

Details: This event will launch the library’s summer reading season for children and families. Take part in seasonal crafts, games, educational entertainment and handson experiences designed to encourage reading and family participation. Free.

PALM COAST ASTRONOMY CLUB MEETING

When: 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Where: Palm Coast Public Library, 2500 Palm Coast Parkway NW, Palm Coast Details: “Inexplicable Life (part 3).”

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3

MAKERLAB: PUFFY PAINT

PROJECTS When: 2 p.m.

Stephenson, Wilcox and Associates

own hearts are transformed with compassion, peace, humility, and love.” Email abbie@observerlocal news.com.

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

Details: Students in grades 6-12 can stop by the Teen Area to use dimensional paint to decorate items to take home. All supplies will be provided while they last. Free.

AMERICA250 — EAGLE EYES ON THE ENVIRONMENT

When: 2 p.m.

Where: Daytona Beach Regional Library, 105 Jackie Robinson Parkway

Details: Cheryl Merz of Audubon Center for Birds of Prey will share facts about eagles. Free program

SANDY BEACH PAINTING

When: 2 p.m.

Where: Daytona Beach Regional Library, 105 Jackie Robinson Parkway

Details: This MakerLab program allows students to express themselves by exploring, designing, and experimenting through STREAM activities and crafts.

THURSDAY, JUNE 4

SUMMER EXHIBITION OPENING RECEPTION When: 5-7 p.m.

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

Details: Join OMAM to celebrate the opening of its summer exhibition, “The Art of Isabella Losskarn and Jeff Schofield.” Free event. Enjoy refreshments and live music.

ATLANTIC FEDERATED REPUBLICAN WOMEN CELEBRATION OF AMERICA’S 250TH

When: 4 p.m.

Where: The Palmetto Club, 1000 S. Beach St., Daytona Beach

Details: Games, activities, costumes, food and a color guard. Patriotic attire is encouraged. Register by 9 p.m. on June 2. Costs $26.76 per person and includes food. Visit www.atlanticrepublican women.com.

A FULL CIRCLE MOMENT

ences, there was a pervasive sense of nostalgia. Seabreeze senior Tahla Bibik and fellow graduates Lindsey Krallinger and Landon Cozier agreed. All three attended Ormond Beach Elementary.

MICHELE MEYERS

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Faculty, staff, and stu -

dents of local elementary schools welcomed graduating seniors to annual Senior Clap Out events on Wednesday, May 20.

Locally, the seniors were invited to attend the celebrations at Ormond Beach, Tomoka, Pine Trail, Pathways, Beachside and Champion elementary schools, where they paraded through the hallways of their former schools to the sounds of teachers and students cheering amid an array of congratulatory signs.

As seniors cruised the halls where many had their first formal educational experi -

“I’d say it’s a very nostalgic feeling being back in a place that you used to be with all these people,” Bibik said. “It’s kind of sad. The place feels so much smaller, too. It’s a very bittersweet feeling — like I’m going to graduate, and this is it. I feel like, in a way, it’s giving closure.”

Ormond Beach Elementary School principal Shannon Hay said the importance of hosting the event is that it reflects their end goal — graduation.

“It’s not only a great experience for our students to come back and see their teachers, and it’s a full circle moment for us, because we’re inspired by that, but it also motivates our current students to know where they’re headed and what to do,” Hay said. “Our school has a long tradition of history, and we actually have grandparents here that graduated from here 50 years ago, so it’s really nice to have our families together celebrating this big moment and milestone in their lives.”

This year was Tomoka Elementary School principal Julie Roseboom’s last Senior Clap Out. After 40 years of teaching in Volusia County, Roseboom is retiring. Twenty-four of those years were in the role of principal; eight of those were at Tomoka. She is also a product of Volusia County Schools, having

attended Westside Elementary, Campbell Middle School and graduated from Mainland High School.

“The students who came this year were with me my first year at Tomoka as fifth graders,” she said. “It’s so exciting to see them come back. I am so proud of them. They’ve been sharing what they’re going to do next, including which college they’ll attend. Some of them are talking about what they’re majoring in. They’re just precious.”

Over 30 seniors arrived at the Tomoka “clap out” for celebratory refreshments and a walk down memory lane. Roseboom remembered Seabreeze senior Leena Harman as the first student whose name she remembered when she became Tomoka’s principal. Also in attendance were the fifth-grade spelling bee winner, Logan Compton, and runner-up Mackenzie Mancuso. Compton will be attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Aviation Maintenance Science, and Mancuso will be attending the University of South Florida.

Pine Trail Elementary School uses the acronym P.R.I.D.E. to teach core life skills to the students — Patience, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Empathy. Principal Charles Bynum highlighted a few for the seniors during the Pioneers’ Senior Clap Out.

“You’re not going to know everything tomorrow, just because you walk across the stage, have some patience

with yourself,” he said. “... Have respect for yourself. Do things that are going to make you proud of yourself, and hang out with people that you respect … The last letter in pride is ‘E’, and I think it’s one of the things that we have failed to do over the last few years. This is just my personal opinion, but it’s empathy … Have empathy and try to understand where people come from. We don’t all come from the same place; we come from all walks of life, and all have baggage we carry. Be empathetic.”

For seniors who went to Champion Elementary School, the Senior Clap Out brought them together after three years of middle school and four years of high school.

“Just hearing their memories, that’s what it is about,” Champion principal Steffan Mallory said. “To hear them

reminiscing back on what they did when they were here, that’s what it’s all about, right here. It’s all about when they can think back to what they did, those little kindergarten through fifth-grade kids, and they still think back to when they did certain things, certain activities here at the school, that’s what it’s all about.”

“I’d say it’s a very nostalgic feeling being back in a place that you used to be with all these people. It’s kind of sad ... It’s a very bittersweet feeling — like I’m going to graduate, and this is it. I feel like, in a way, it’s giving closure.”

TAHLA BIBIK, Seabreeze High School senior

Seabreeze seniors take a photo at the Tomoka Elementary School’s annual Senior Clap Out on Wednesday, May 20.

Photos by Michele Meyers

Ormond, Daytona elementary schools host annual Senior Clap Out events.

Tomoka Elementary School teacher Kristin Robinson (right) recognizes a former student.

Seniors (left to right) Kailey Hunt, Nathan Kirk, Camila Arellano, Melissa Santiago Canseco, Natalia Orta, Dimitri Wills and Cortez Waring pose on the Champion Elementary School playground.

Seabreeze graduates (left to right) McKenna Simson, Mercedee Anderson and Ava Marcus peruse an Ormond Beach Elementary School yearbook.

Lone Mainland senior Hope Bronson (left) and Seabreeze senior Tatum Gibbens (right) visit Ormond Beach Elementary, where they attended elementary school.

Seabreeze grad Tahla Bibik

The first student’s name that Tomoka Elementary School principal Dr. Julie Roseboom (right) memorized when she started working at Tomoka was Seabreeze senior Leena Harman’s when Harman went to school there.

CHERYL MYERS REALTOR® 386-276-5108

CHERYLBURCHAM1@GMAIL.COM

CHERYLSELLSFIRSTCOAST.COM

Palm Coast Z Section: Your sign has arrived at Zodiac Place in Palm Coast! Located on a short cul-de-sac and backing to a large wooded area, this lovingly maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath home may be written in the stars.

Tile flooring runs throughout the main living & wet areas, while 3 of the 4 bedrooms feature newer carpet. The formal dining room has a beautiful double trey ceiling with high ceilings in the rest of the living area. Freshly painted interior and exterior (2026). Major updates include a roof (2021), Rheem water heater (2026), ceiling fans in all bedrooms and the living room (2024) and Rheem A/C (2022). $365,000.

REAL ESTATE

Hammock Dunes home sells for $3.3 million

Ahouse at 6 Cordoba Court, in Hammock Dunes, was the top real estate transaction for May 9-15 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The house sold on May 14, for $3,300,000.

Built in 1997, the house is a 4/5 and has a pool, a hot tub, an outdoor kitchen, two fireplaces and 5,212 square feet. It sold in 2018 for $1,085,000. The house was listed by Krista Libby, of Coastal Gateway Real Estate.

ALEXIS MILLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

FLAGLER BEACH

Veranda Bay

A house at 160 Stillwater Drive sold on May 15, for $550,000. Built in 2025, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,114 square feet.

PALM COAST

Cypress Knoll

A house at 2 Elder Drive sold on May 15, for $590,000. Built in 1998, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 2,279 square feet. It sold in 2016 for $160,000.

A house at 1 Essex Place sold on May 15, for $624,900. Built in 2019, the house is a 4/3 and has a bonus room a pool and 2,693 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $574,900.

Flagler Village

A house at 68 Wandering Creek Way sold on May 15, for $363,990. Built in 2026, the house is a 4/3 and has 1,842 square feet.

A house at 70 Wandering Creek Way sold on May 14,

MODEL GRAND

for $360,990. Built in 2026, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,193 square feet.

Ocean Hammock

A house at 17 Las Palmas Way sold on May 12, for $1,309,000. Built in 2006, the house is a 4/4.5 and has a fireplace and 4,075 square feet.

Palm Harbor A house at 62 Fort Caroline Lane sold on May 15, for $365,000. Built in 1978, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,629 square feet. It sold in 2015 for $112,000.

A house at 13 Clinton Court S. sold on May 14, for $525,000. Built in 1981, the

house is a 3/3 and has a fireplace, a boat house and 2,129 square feet. It sold in 2017 for $312,000.

A house at 4 Coral Reef Court S. sold on May 14, for $470,000. Built in 1985, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a

2026, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,862 square feet. A house at 60 Sawdust Lane, sold on May 13, for $341,490. Built in 2026, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,862 square feet. Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report.

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PALM COAST

Oceanfront house in Ormond sells for $2.8M

A

n oceanfront home at 717 Ocean Shore Blvd. was the the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-theSea for the week of May 2-8. The house sold on May 4, for $2.8 million. Built in 1966, the house is a 5/3.5 and has two fireplaces and 5,013 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $2.5 million. The house was listed by Bill Navarra, of Realty Pros Assured.

JARLEENE ALMENAS

MANAGING EDITOR

Condos

The condo at 89 S. Atlantic Ave., Unit 1004, sold on May 5, for $294,000. Built in 1979, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,200 square feet. It last sold in 1980 for $65,200.

The condo at 1425 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 901, sold on May 5, for $530,000. Built in 2006, the condo is a 3/3 and has 2,515 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $385,000.

The condo at 1926 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 3120, sold on May 8, for $262,000. Built in 1974, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,175 square feet. It last sold in 2009 for $175,000.

ORMOND BEACH

Breakaway Trails

The house at 53 Creek Bluff Way sold on May 5, for $415,000. Built in 1996, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,246 square feet. It last sold in 2007 for $255,000.

Fountain View

The house at 1452 Morning Walk Drive sold on May 4, for

$334,990. Built in 2026, the house is a 5/2 and has 1,708 square feet.

Halifax Plantation

The house at 1333 Antrim Circle sold on May 6, for $645,000. Built in 2003, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a fireplace, a pool, a spa and 2,667 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $625,000.

The house at 3143 Kailani Court sold on May 6, for $327,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,684 square feet. It last sold in 2012 for $148,000.

Northbrook

The house at 17 Brookside Circle sold on May 8, for $352,000. Built in 1979, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,335 square feet. It last sold in 1998 for $84,000.

Ocean Village

The house at 718 Flamingo Drive A sold on May 8, for $160,000. Built in 1947, the house is a 1/1 and has 504 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $82,000.

Pineland The house at 120 Sunset

Point Drive sold on May 8, for $345,000. Built in 2020, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,334 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $300,000.

Southern Pines

The house at 16 Ardisia Circle sold on May 4, for $508,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 2,049 square feet. It last sold in 2004 for $151,700.

The Trails The townhome at 6 Appaloosa Trail sold on May 8, for $314,900. Built in 1983, the townhome is a 2/2 and has a fireplace and 1,464 square feet. It last sold in 2025 for $170,000.

Tymber Creek

The house at 179 Suntree Court sold on May 5, for $292,000. Built in 1982, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,358 square feet. It last sold in 2012 for $95,000.

Woodmere

The house at 897 Lindenwood Circle N. sold on May 7, for $361,000. Built in 1976, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,905 square feet. It last sold in 1976 for $43,100.

The house at 700 Lindenwood Circle E. sold on May 8, for $365,000. Built in 1975, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,696 square feet. It last sold in 2011 for $111,000.

ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA

Lynhurst

The house at 213 Lynnhurst Drive sold on May 8, for $300,000. Built in 1962, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,120 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $368,000.

Oakview Heights

The house at 11 Sunrise Ave. sold on May 7, for $505,000. Built in 1969, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace, a pool and 1,712 square feet. It last

sold in 2014 for $157,000.

Ormond Beach Estates

The house at 45 Wisteria Drive sold on May 7, for $520,000. Built in 1963, the house is a 3/2.5 and has 1,794 square feet. It last sold in 2014 for $229,900.

Seabridge South

The house at 5 Sand Dollar Drive sold on May 4, for $535,000. Built in 2014, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,572 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $570,000.

The house at 29 Sea Gull Drive sold on May 8, for $410,000. Built in 1987, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,426 square feet. It last sold in 2005 for $265,000.

John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.

WEST DAYTONA BEACH

A house in Mosaic at 195 Azure Mist Way was the top real estate transaction in Daytona Beach’s 32124 zip code for the week of May 2-8. The house sold on May 8, for $448,900. Built in 2018, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,666 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $435,000. The house was listed by Jennifer Matacale, of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty.

Bayberry Lakes The house at 260 Bayberry Lakes Blvd. sold on May 7, for $325,000. Built in 2008, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,830 square feet. It last sold in 2008 for $160,100.

Grande Champion The house at 1147 Morfon-

taine St. sold on May 7, for $395,000. Built in 2026, the house is a 5/3 and has 2,601 square feet.

The house at 1068 Morfontaine St. sold on May 8, for $395,950. Built in 2026, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,020 square feet.

Latitude Margaritaville The townhome at 944 Margaritaville Ave. sold on May 6, for $425,000. Built in 2023, the townhome is a 2/2 and has 1,563 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $385,700.

Preserve at LPGA The house at 1173 Sand Trap Court sold on May 8, for $410,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,093 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $424,200.

The house at 717 Ocean Shore Blvd. sold on May 4, for $2.8 million. Photo courtesy of Realty Pros Assured

SPORTS

Forward progress

Seabreeze snags tight spring game win over Flagler Palm Coast.

MICHELE MEYERS

WRITER

CONTRIBUTING

The final score is not the most important thing in a high school spring football game. The team showing signs of improvement, first-year starters showing they can take over a position, players taking what they learned in practice and applying it to the game. Those are what coaches are looking for in the spring.

But for the Seabreeze Sandcrabs, their 14-7 road win over Flagler Palm Coast on May 22 was a nice way to close out spring practice.

“I told our guys, what I’m looking for is for you guys to play smart football, play disciplined football and be doing all the little things,” Seabreeze head coach Mike Klein said. “I want us to be consistent in our assignment. I want to see the guys go out and show what they can do, because we had a good off-season, had a good spring. The guys have improved, and you know it was nice to see tonight.”

The Sandcrabs scored first on Danny Spada’s touchdown catch from Michael “Bear Hog” McDonough in the second quarter. Bulldogs quarterback Bobby Starr answered a few minutes later with a 45-yard touchdown run.

FPC’s Trace Paffrath’s touchdown catch was called back , and the score remained

tied through the three varsity quarters. Seabreeze quarterback Noah Bagdanowicz ran for a touchdown from midfield with 8:30 left in the game for the final score.

“I thought they showed up and did exactly what our expectation was,” Flagler Palm Coast head coach Patrick Turner said. “Defense played exceptionally well. Offense did what they should have done. We had one touchdown called back, and probably another [possession] that we probably should have kicked a field goal in the red zone. We did score some points, and I was extremely proud of their effort.”

Seabreeze produced some big defensive plays. Defensive back Sebastian Tocco had an interception in the first quarter. The Sandcrabs ended a Bulldogs’ drive with a quarterback sack at the beginning of the second half, Neither team could score, and the third quarter ended in a 7-7 stalemate.

Klein said Bagdanowicz and McDonough have been vying for the QB spot the entire offseason.

“Both of them are playing pretty good football, and so they’re battling,” he said. “They’re making each other better every day, which is really positive to see.”

Turner said the overall continuity of FPC’s offense has been boosted with the return of several offensive linemen, running back Ehimen Ajede — who led the Bulldogs with

Matanzas’ strong showing

Varsity blanks Eustis

seven touchdowns last season — and two receivers. Eight of 11 defensive players who started last season also return.

“Anytime you have that, you know you’re going to be good on defense, and that honestly is going to be the strength of this year’s team,” Turner said. “I’m just excited about the whole program, and where they are. We’re excited about the kids who were on JV that have stepped up and are now in new positions. Even though they weren’t scoring touchdowns for the varsity yet, they were scoring a lot of touchdowns on JV.”

A good indicator that it is going to be a good year, Turner said, is that the leaders are putting in the work, leading by example on the field, off the field and in the classroom. He said the Bulldogs have a ton of

leaders on both sides of the ball.

“From a defensive standpoint, we’ve got two senior linebackers, Josiah Hathaway and Mathias Parker, who did an exceptional job leading,” Turner said. “Our secondary has two senior cornerbacks that are lock-down corners. We’re still young at safety, but both of them played last year, Shawn Smith and Nei’cco Murphy. Unbelievable job setting up our coverages and communication. On the offensive side of the ball, we have running back Ehimen Ajede and Bobby Starr at quarterback, who did an outstanding job and scored the touchdown in the game.” Klein also has been

impressed with his team’s leadership. He said Simeon Daffin, who will be returning this summer after recovering from an ACL injury, has been an outstanding leader. The Sandcrabs will also rely onthe leadership of rising seniors Spada and Matt Wells, Klein said.

“I feel like we’ve really improved in this area,” Klein said. “Our guys are starting to learn how to lead and how to pick each other up and how to make each other better. To be a great football team, players lead. Coaches lead average teams, players lead great teams. Proud of our guys for stepping up. I’m excited to get our leadership council together this summer.”

Seabreeze wide receiver Danny Spada (4) grabs a long pass as Flagler Palm Coast’s Yamon Jordan (right) chases him down. Photos by Michele Meyers

Lucas Siharaj (5) is called for pass interference against Seabreeze wide receiver Danny Spada.

Seabreeze’s Adrian “A.J.” Brown (3) celebrates making a big tackle.

FPC’s Trace Paffrath (center) gets caught by two Sandcrabs.

A pack of Bulldogs take down Seabreeze running back Beckett Fowler (center).

Flagler Palm Coast’s Yamon Jordan (right) tackles Seabreeze quarterback Noah Bagdanowicz (17)

in spring jamboree. PAGE 7B

Matanzas varsity blanks Eustis in spring football jamboree

ers who suit up to see action in the spring exhibitions.

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Matanzas running back Wiley Conner scored two touchdowns and Brennon Friendly and Jayden McCoy each grabbed an interception as the Pirates defeated Eustis 19-0 in the second half of a spring jamboree on May 21 at Pine Ridge High School.

The Pirates played their JV players and some younger varsity players in the first half against Pine Ridge’s varsity team and lost 14-7.

“We wanted to get some film of everybody,” said Matanzas coach Matt Forrest, explaining that he likes all of his play-

“We want to see what everyone needs to work on,” Forrest said. “Pine Ridge played their varsity, which is fine; I had no problem with that at all. Our young guys got to play against a varsity football team, and I think they played with them physically.”

Rising sophomore Mari Arneaud scored the Pirates’ only touchdown against Pine Ridge. Arneaud played quarterback, but he will likely transition to wide receiver/ defensive back this fall, Forrest said.

“He played quarterback in the spring, just because we needed a backup,” Forrest said. “But we feel we have freshman quarterbacks coming up. We’re real excited about the group of quarterbacks we’ve got coming in.”

Matanzas dominated the half against Eustis, which was played under a running clock. The Pirates kept the ball on the ground with 1,000yard rusher Conner running behind an experience offensive line. Quarterback Cole Hardy threw the ball only a few times.

“He did a good job of handling the varsity reps when it came to the tempo we wanted

to run,” Forrest said of Hardy, a rising junior. “I thought he managed the game really well.”

The defense, playing a new scheme installed by new defensive coordinator Devin Mathews this spring, made some mistakes, but the energy and intensity were evident, Forrest said.

“The scheme, the details, those things we can correct,”

Forrest said. “But the effort was there. We had two interceptions and a lot of big hits.”

Of the overall performance, Forrest said, “There were some things we can clean up, as always, but I thought the kids handled the game really well. There was a lightning delay before we even got off the bus, and they handled that well. It was a good showing.”

Matanzas receiver Brady Putis (right) tries to run past a Eustis defender.

Matanzas’ Antoine Jenkins with the ball. Photos by Keishia McLendon

Wiley Conner scored two TDs, the Pirates picked off two passes.

Matanzas’ Ayden Joseph makes the tackle.

Matanzas’ Jordan Viveiros chases after a loose ball.

Matanzas’ Brennon Friendly (10) returns an interception.

Matanzas offensive lineman Logan Walker (right).

Williams, Haymon named FPC Athletes of Year

Boys track and field is Team of Year; Paulo wins Spirit of Flagler award; Hagstrom is Coach of the Year.

Principal’s Award winners

Baseball: Carson Flis

Boys basketball: Anthony Hampton

Girls basketball: Nereyda Campos

Beach volleyball: Haley

Sobin

Boys Bowling: Cole

SIDELINES

Volusia-Flagler awards

Matanzas’ boys tennis team, which reached the Class 3A state semifinals, was named the Volusia-Flagler Boys Team of the Year at the Daytona Beach News-Journal’s

Volusia-Flagler High School Awards Show on May 21.

Osypian

Girls Bowling: Kailyn

Ball

Cheer: Natalie PatelHolmes

Boys cross country:

Soccer goalie and football kicker Teagan Paulo won the Spirit of Flagler Award. “He embodied everything it means to be a Flagler Bulldog,” FPC athletic director Scott Drabczyk said.

The boys track and field team was named Team of the Year. The Bulldogs placed sixth at the 4A state championship.

Weightlifting coach Duane Hagstrom was named Flagler Palm Coast’s Coach of the Year. The weightlifting teams produced three state champs in Williams, Cody Strawser and Matt McFall.

Nya Williams, who won two state weightlifting championships, setting a state record along the way, was named Female Athlete of the Year at the Flagler Palm Coast Athletics Award Show on Tuesday, May 26, at the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center. Williams won the 119-pound title in both competitions at the Class 3A championships. She set a school record with a 210-pound clean and jerk. After the season, she was named the Florida Dairy Farmers’ Miss Weightliftng, as the girls overall state weightlifter of the year. Track sprinter Jordan Haymon, was named Male Athlete of the Year. Haymon was a member of the Bulldogs’ Class 4A state championship 4x400 relay team with Logan Jacobelli, Will Roberts and Mikey Najpaver. Haymon also was the state runner-up in the 400-meter run. He set the school record in the 400 during the season with a time of 46.88 seconds.

The Bulldogs also recognized girls basketball coach

George Butts as the all-time winningest basketball coach in Volusia and Flagler counties and finished the season with 595 victories.

And Steve DeAugustino, who is retiring in August, received special recognition. DeAugustino was the Bulldogs’ head wrestling coach for 27 years, establishing FPC as a state power with three state championships and two runners-up. He then served as athletic director for 16 years and returned to wrestling the past three years as an assistant coach.

“He’ll be impossible to replace,” Drabczyk said. “His fingerprints are on every corner of this campus.”

Douglas Seth

Girls cross country: Ari Slaughter

Flag football: Nereyda

Campos

Football: Angel De Leon

Boys golf: Carson Flis

Girls golf: Sofia Stiwich

Boys lacrosse: Aiden

Commendatore

Girls lacrosse: Emma Haggard

Boys soccer: Rami Amiri

Girls soccer: Eva Sites

Softball: Sanai Figueiredo

Boys swimming: Noah Roznos

Girls swimming: Matilda Noble

Boys tennis: Shoshiro

Waki

Girls tennis: Aasi Bharucha

Boys track: Logan

Jacobelli

Girls track: Karina

Marcelus

Volleyball: Faith Dailey

Boys weightlifting:

Landon Gates

Girls weightlifting: Lily Ames

Boys wrestlng: Mikey Fries

Girls wrestling: Alex Calidonio

Flagler Palm Coast and Seabreeze each won six Player of the Year awards.

FPC’s Players of the Year were Marion Clayton (baseball), Karina Marcelus (girls track and field), Douglas Seth (boys cross country), Sofia Stiwich (girls golf), Alexa Calidonio (girls wrestling) and Kevin McLean (boys wrestling). FPC’s Jordan Haymon was named Power Play Athlete of the Year.

Seabreeze’s Players of the Year were Olivia Chase (girls soccer), Luke Harrell (boys soccer), Reef McKeeking (boys swimming), Dalton Boice (boys bowling), Marissa Watson (Girls Special Olympian of the Year) and Anthony Nagel (Boys Special Olympican of the Year).

Sabreeze’s Jacob McBroom was named Unified Partner Champion of the Year.

Matanzas had three Players of the Year: Olivia Rabbat (girls bowling), Peyton Cerasi (girls cross country) and Daniel Patsula (boys tennis).

Mainland’s Dennis King III was named Defensive Football Player of the Year.

Imagine runners at Middle School Track Championships

Five runners from the Imagine School At Town Center cross county and track club, coached by Michael Pane, competed in the Florida

FBCA basketball coaches

Flagler Palm Coast Male Athlete of the Year: Jordan Haymon

Flagler Palm Coast Female Athlete of the Year: Nya Williams with AD Scott Drabczyk and Principal Bobby Bossardet. Photo by Brent Woronoff

Spirit of Flagler Award: Soccer player Teagan Paulo

Aspen Lester placed fourth

State Track and Field Championships. Courtesy photo

Flagler Palm Coast Coach of the Year: Boys and girls weightlifting coach Duane Hagstrom.

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CONGRATS GRADS

Class of 2026

Adyson Doherty, Seabreeze

Layla Marie Acosta

Mercedee

Aivah Beyer

Jonas

Brad

Cook Alyssia Cooley Dakota LeAnn Copeland William Corya Landon Cozier Carter Crafton

Erin Crall Megan Curran Karma Dalton Janell

Ditsunon

Kaitlyn Epp Camryn Esposito

Euson Anna Evans Liliana Farrell Amira Ferguson Jack Fillegar Madison Fleischer Joshua Floyd Tre’Lin Francis Yurem Fuentes

Sarah

Anakin Reyna

Adelynn

Caden Robbins, Seabreeze

Sophia M. Giorgianni, Seabreeze

Tatum Cameron Gibbens, Seabreeze

Lyla Roberson, Seabreeze

Luke Harrell, Seabreeze

Vivian Ngo, Seabreeze

Liv Chase, Seabreeze

Ethan McBroom, Seabreeze

Caley Linzmayer, Seabreeze

Casey Jensen Gainey, Seabreeze

Seth

Baldwin

Landon Baliles Joseph Balint Zaniya Ballard Lavender Barber Wesley Barnes Celina Barrett

Battista Nikka Bautista Je’Ylah Bell Nicolle Bernal Campo Bernard Berry

Samantha Best Trindon Bholai Zariah

Boylan

Braswell

Breece Levi Brengle

Bronson Lyniah Brooks Kaiya Brown

Kaleb Brown Madison Brown Qavarious Brown

Daniel Carlton Serenity Causer

Dotson

Jeslene Gonzalez Beegie Gordon Ilana Goycochea

Snowe Haynes

Kailey

Harmonie

Kenziya Lewis Laila Limbric Jayla Long Remilio

Salvatore Maiolo Kevin Maisey Caiden Mann Zandarius Martin

London

Carlos Meza De Los Santo

Yexenia Mickens Jazzliya Miller Shadae

Ordonez Murcia Zanay Otto Robert PaoliScarola Anthony Parker

Zanell Parker Donavon Parks Vir

Prince

Laila

Rivers Bobbie Roberts Canidate Juan Rodriguez Ylse RodriguezRamos

Janiya Rone Stephone Ross Shariya Rucker Meadow Runde Jordin Saddlemire Luther Sapsford

Schaier

Scofield Shamya Scott George Scudiero Landon Seyk

Lorelei Shoaf Michael Short Denzel Shropshire

Kiarin

Carter Coates, Calvary Christian

Anthony Romeo Comino,Mainland

La-Vonte Terry Aysia Thompson Tahleisha Thompson Daniel Toby Dominic Torres-Smack Diego TorresSoto Liam Towner Aleena Tran Bao Tran Abigail Treacle Daisa Trigo Gomez

Weston Tucker Everett Vanderlinde Mayra Vasquez Luis VegaColon Adriana Velasco Aguilar Mya Wagner Cortez Waring Caden Washington Jackson Watkins Zakiyah Watson Cameron Wilcox

Javeyon Wilcox Wesley Wilkins Allen Williams Brandon Williams Jacob Williams Johnyah Williams La’Zhiya Williams Tyvaris Williams Dallez Williamson Barriannae Wilson Breche- Wilson

Kailyn Wilson Skyler Wilson Veronica Wing K’Niyah Wood Ariel Workman Wyatt Worley Lanasia Yarbrough Leilani Youmans Sarah Young

Elijah Alvarez Hunter Amato Alyssa Andrews Eduardo Azpiri Madison Baich Jake Baron Marlene Beaty Calla Benedict Isabella Bosinski Bryce Budgen Bryce Burton

Ian Campanella Nathan Carley Georgia Carpenter Brady Carrasquillo

Bonnie Cates Andrea Cendejas

Quinn Cottle Caroline Curtis Yumalay Da Silva Nikolas DeLeo Sebastian Depeau

Indy Donohue Raymond Dormeyer Finnegan Driscoll Kaylee Durney Paige Ferracane Addison Fisher Moore Natalie Francis Dominic Gambino

Jessica Gazzoli Isabel Gonzalez Gabriella Green

Cynthia Gunn Caleb Hawkins Lena Heck Kayawna Hill Noah Jackson Kate Jorissen Seth Kalisz Erin Kealy Carlysle Kline Rylan Kollar Ian LaFleur

Angelica Larkins Ayden Le Nathalia Leiva Erica Leo Benjamin Livingston Root Adrian Lopez Trevor Marquinez

William Melvin Brody Milligan Jack Mills Alyssa Moore

Morgan Morrell Caitlin Morris Daven Murray Kallie Nemmers

Dhruv Patel Aiden Pierson Tristan Plenzler Brianno Quiroz Hailey Randlov Isabelle Rex Gavin Richmond

Jacqueline Riley Evynn Roberson James Roberson

Kimberli Ruiz Nathan Sabogal Chloe Scott Addie Sheridan Fern Sheridan Cameron Shewey Saige Sieger Aidan Simpson

Brianna Spanos Jordan Stonaker Ofelia Stout Carley Thumbeck

Conner Tischler Vanda Varhelyi Benjamin Walczyk Nathan Watkins Chloe Wilen Annabelle Worden Brody Yablonski

Erin Kealy, Father Lopez

Elizabeth Futch, Homeschool

Isaac Kennedy, Homeschool

Payton Bonino, Spruce Creek

Pearl Kelly, Seabreeze

Anakin James Reyna, Seabreeze

Chase Ryan Owen, Seabreeze

Camila Arellano, Seabreeze