Volusia to push pause on data centers
Seabreeze quarterback Noah Bogdanowicz takes a snap on the firstl day of preseason practice July 27. Photo by Michele Meyers
Ormond Beach Mainstreet staff, the Clauses, and the Gary Yeomans team, at Christmas in July. Courtesy photo
Dozens charged in fentanyl trafficking bust
State Attorney R.J. Larizza says year-anda-half operation will have a lasting impact.
A year-and-a-half multiagency investigation targeting fentanyl and other drug trafficking organizations operating across Central Florida has resulted in charges against dozens of defendants, with prosecutors saying the case will make a lasting difference in communities plagued by addiction and overdose deaths.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced Thursday that the Office of Statewide Prosecution, working with State Attorney R.J. Larizza’s Seventh Judicial Circuit and numerous local law enforcement agencies, has charged dozens of defendants tied to trafficking organizations operating in Volusia, Flagler, St. Johns, Marion and Orange counties. Authorities said 49 defendants have been arrested so far.
According to the Attorney General’s Office, the investigation ran from the fall of 2025 through late June 2026 and relied on wiretaps, courtauthorized pen registers, trap-and-trace orders, physical surveillance and controlled drug purchases to identify mid- and upper-level distributors of fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine and other controlled substances. Search
warrants executed June 30 led to the seizure of narcotics, cash, digital scales, cutting agents, cell phones and other evidence.
In an interview following Thursday’s announcement, Larizza said the investigation demonstrated the value of law enforcement agencies working together to dismantle drug trafficking organizations rather than focusing solely on individual dealers.
“We had a press conference today with the Attorney General, James Uthmeier, his statewide prosecutor Brett McVeigh, Sheriff Staly, Sheriff Chitwood and Daytona Beach Police Chief Jakari Young,” Larizza said. “Approximately 60 defendants were arrested or are in the process of being arrested for trafficking in fentanyl, cocaine and other controlled substances. This was probably about a year-anda-half-long operation getting
it all put together.”
Larizza said the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office played an important supporting role in the investigation.
“Sheriff Staly assisted logistically with the arrest of some of the defendants and also with any other help that was needed regarding subpoenas or search warrants,” he said, adding that the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office and Daytona Beach Police Department were actively involved throughout the investigation.
Larizza said removing the organizations from the streets will benefit neighborhoods throughout the region.
“It’s going to make a big difference in the communities in Daytona Beach and Volusia County,” he said. “Drugs and these drug traffickers and these drug organizations, they breed addiction, they breed death, they breed despair in the neighborhoods where
they set up their trade.”
He said the damage extends well beyond those directly involved in drug trafficking.
“The families also suffer from losses with overdose deaths and just the loss of family members who become addicted and are willing to do just about anything to get more drugs and get high,” Larizza said. “I was again pleased and proud to be a part of this. We’re going to prosecute these folks to the fullest extent.”
According to the Attorney General’s Office, several defendants identified as alleged leaders of the trafficking organizations face firstdegree felony trafficking and conspiracy charges carrying mandatory minimum prison sentences ranging from seven to 25 years, along with fines of up to $500,000. Numerous other defendants are charged with trafficking, conspiracy, delivery of controlled substances and other crimes.
Larizza said Florida’s mandatory minimum sentencing laws will be a key part of the prosecution.
“A lot of minimum mandatory sentences will be available to us, and we hope that it will make a positive and a long-lasting difference on the communities where these folks had set up shop,” he said.
The cases will be prosecuted jointly by the Office of Statewide Prosecution and the Seventh Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office. The Attorney General’s Office said the investigation remains active and additional arrests and charges are anticipated.
COPS CORNER
JULY 23
FEDERAL FUGITIVE
ARRESTED DURING
DAYTONA BEACH OPERATION
A 30-year-old man wanted on a federal deportation order was arrested during a law enforcement operation at a Daytona Beach residence.
According to the Volusia Sheriff’s Office, detectives located the suspect inside a garage with several other people where multiple firearms were within arm’s reach. Everyone at the scene, including children inside the home, was secured without incident.
Investigators said the residence is connected to Operation Holy Rollers, a long-term drug trafficking investigation that previously resulted in more than 30 arrests.
The suspect was taken into custody on the federal deportation order.
JULY 25
DOORDASH DRIVER’S CALL LEADS TO RESCUE OF DOG WITH EIGHT PUPPIES
1:30 p.m. — Rolland Lane, Palm Coast Animal cruelty. A Palatka woman was arrested after deputies say she left a nursing American Bully and her eight puppies caged inside a garage in 97-degree heat without adequate water.
According to the arrest report, a DoorDash driver called the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office after spotting the dogs inside a two-level cage through a partially open garage door. The driver reported
the animals had no food, little or no water and were panting in the extreme heat. Deputies found eight puppies, about four-and-a-half weeks old, crowded together in the upper cage with a nearly empty water bowl, while their mother panted heavily in the lower cage beside an empty water bowl.
Deputies said the woman refused repeated commands to provide the dog with water, finally complying after a second order several minutes later. As Animal Control responded, she allegedly attempted to close the garage door, loaded the puppies into a cardboard box and refused multiple commands to reopen the garage.
Animal Control eventually took custody of the eight puppies and their mother, all of whom were transported to an air-conditioned vehicle. The woman was arrested.
GOLF CART RIDE ENDS WITH FUGITIVE’S ARREST
5:45 p.m. — Belle Terre Parkway and Zebulahs Trail, Palm Coast Driving while license suspended warrant. A Palm Coast man wanted in Volusia County was arrested after deputies stopped him driving a golf cart along the sidewalk and through a crosswalk at Belle Terre Parkway and Zebulahs Trail, where golf carts are not permitted under Palm Coast regulations.
A records check revealed the 20-year-old driver had an active Volusia County warrant for driving while his license was suspended. Deputies took him into custody on the warrant and transported him to jail. He was later released on a $500 bond.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announces charges in a multi-agency fentanyl trafficking investigation. Courtesy of the Office of the Attorney General.
Firemen vs. Deputies
Volusia softball showdown, at Jackie Robinson Ballpark: Volusia County Fire and Rescue and the Volusia Sheriff’s Office combine to raise over $70,000 for the V Foundation.
ABE MILLS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The softball showdown of the year was a hit on July 22, at Jackie Robinson Ballpark in Daytona Beach.
The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office faced off against the Volusia County Fire and Rescue for the first charity softball game to support the V Foundation for Pediatric Cancer Research and the Volusia Sheriff’s Youth Foundation.
Fire and Rescue won the game and the bragging rights on the field by dominating 26-6, but the real victory was off the field, as the event raised more than $70,000.
“To date, the V Foundation has raised almost $500 million,” said Coach G, retired baseball coach and Master of Ceremonies. “Having this kind of crowd come out here means a lot to so many people, but mainly the kids we’re trying to help.”
Fighting to cure cancer hits close to home for people on both teams.
“Anything for charity, especially cancer and little kids,” Deputy A.J. Cole said. “I love everything about it. Bringing everybody together.”
John Moak, of Fire and Rescue, added that it’s a great opportunity for two different sides of public safety to enjoy time together for a good cause.
“It’s camaraderie with my fellow firefighters and with the sheriffs,” Moak said.
The entertainment on the field did not disappoint.
“If we lose, I’m gonna be really disappointed,” Fire Chief Joe King joked. “I won’t be upset, I’ll just be really disappointed. I like those guys!” King did not end up being disappointed.
Volusia Fire and Rescue jumped out to a huge lead in the first inning and never looked back. Over the first five innings, they built up a 20-run lead before the Spruce Creek girls varsity softball team stepped in to pitch and field against both squads.
The Spruce Creek team did so well that Sheriff Mike Chitwood decided a change was in order.
“We’re going to have a change in the lineup,” Chitwood said. “I have to swear these ladies in to become deputies tonight, and they are going to bat for us next inning.”
In the end, both teams declared the night a big success.
“We thank you all for coming out,” Chitwood said. “And we’re going to do this again in 2027.”
Deputy Matt Seltzer and his son, ballboy Gage Seltzer, in the dugout.
A member of the Fire and Rescue team gestures with his raised arm as he rounds first base.
Members of the VSO team look on from the dugout.
A Fire and Rescue base runner slides home..
Josh Tress of Fire and Rescue watches with his son, ball boy Logan Tress.
The Volusia County Sheriff Department and Fire and Rescue take a photo together to commemorate the first charity softball game to support the V Foundation for Pediatric Cancer Research and the Volusia Sheriff’s Youth Foundation. Photos by Rachel Mills
Happy birthday, Daytona Beach
Happy birthday, Daytona Beach
Drone show, music, stilts and beach balls help residents celebrate Daytona Beach’s 150th birthday.
ABE MILLS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Daytona Beach is 150 years old.
The city held a celebration at the Daytona Bandshell to kick off a historic weekend. People of all ages converged at the Daytona Bandshell for “Illuminate the Decades” featuring decades of music, dancing, a drone show, stilts, roller skates and choreographed dancers.
The party was hosted by DJ Tremble and Alyssa from The Morning Vibe show on 103.3. DJ Tremble played the most popular songs from each decade.
“I’m so grateful that every-
one came to celebrate our 150th birthday with us,” said Katie Prestwood, Daytona Beach community relations and events coordinator.
The dancers changed outfits to represent the styles of each era and had choreographed dances. One of the crowd favorites was the dance to “Bye Bye Bye” from the popular 1990s group NSYNC. The night ended with a special Daytona Beach drone show that shared images specific to Daytona Beach’s unique history: race cars, checkered flags, the universities in the area, the state of Florida and the 150 year logo.
Daytona Beach was incorporated on July 26, 1876, by Matthias D. Day. The city will continue to celebrate its 150th birthday throughout 2026 with social media posts and scheduled events. For more info go to https://www.db150.com/
Kids enjoyed dancing with costumed dancers through every decade of music.
Pierre Luis danced the night away.
A man simply known as DW dances like no one is watching at the Daytona bandshell.
A dancer roller skates while kids play with beach balls and dance at Daytona Beach’s 150 year birthday celebration. Photos by Rachel Mills
Linda Ingra busts a move.
A dancer on stilts dances in a poodle skirt to celebrate the 50s at the "Illuminate the Decades" event.
Drones create images in the sky.
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YOUR TOWN
Volusia County sets new record for sea turtle nests in a season
Volusia County recorded its 1,517th sea turtle nest of 2026, setting a new all-time nesting record and making this year’s season the most successful in the county’s history.
The record-breaking nest was documented the morning of Wednesday, July 22, in Daytona Beach Shores, surpassing the previous countywide record of 1,516 nests established during the 2023 nesting season. With sea turtle nesting season continuing through Oct. 31, additional nests are still expected, meaning the new record will continue to grow in the weeks ahead.
The historic milestone highlights the importance of Volusia County’s coastline as critical nesting habitat for threatened and endangered sea turtles. Each year, loggerhead, green and leatherback sea turtles return to the county’s beaches to lay their eggs. The 2026 season has also included multiple nests from the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, the world’s rarest and most endangered sea turtle species.
Throughout nesting season, county staff and sea turtle monitoring partners survey Volusia County’s beaches
each morning to locate, document, mark, monitor and help protect sea turtle nests while supporting the safe emergence of hatchlings. Their work is complemented by ongoing public education efforts that encourage residents, beachfront property owners and visitors to help reduce disturbances to nesting turtles and hatchlings.
As hatchlings continue emerging from nests across the county, residents and visitors are encouraged to do their part by observing marked nesting areas, turning off or shielding lights visible from the beach at night, removing beach furniture and equipment each evening, filling in holes, flattening sandcastles, properly disposing of trash and respecting posted conservation zones.
While the record is a milestone worth celebrating, it also serves as a reminder that nesting season is still under-
way. Continued stewardship of Volusia County’s beaches will help give nesting turtles and thousands of hatchlings the best possible chance for success throughout the remainder of the season.
The public can stay updated on sea turtle nesting activity throughout the season by visiting www.volusiaseaturtles.org.
Volusia Veteran of the Year receives keys to home, newly rebuilt through Transform386
Volusia County’s inaugural Veteran of the Year, retired U.S. Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 2 Pierre Louis, was welcomed home on Friday, July 25.
The Daytona Beach resident received the keys to his newly reconstructed home through Volusia County’s
Transform386 Homeowner Recovery Program. Louis’ home had been severely damaged by Hurricane Ian in 2022.
County leaders, family members, friends, community partners and supporters gathered to celebrate Louis’ return home. The ceremony marked the completion of his home and another important milestone in his recovery from one of Florida’s most destructive storms.
The home was rebuilt through the Transform386 Homeowner Recovery Program, which is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block GrantDisaster Recovery program. Transform386 provides eligible homeowners impacted by Hurricane Ian with assistance through rehabilitation, reconstruction, replacement and other housing recovery
options. Louis served more than 20 years in the U.S. Marine Corps as a pilot and maintenance officer before continuing his commitment to public service through volunteer leadership, mentoring and helping fellow veterans navigate U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs benefits. In recognition of his lifelong dedication to others, Volusia County named him its inaugural Veteran of the Year in May. Since the Transform386 Homeowner Recovery Program launched, more than 300 recovery projects have been completed with hundreds more actively being worked on the the county. Residents interested in learning more about the Transform386 Homeowner Recovery Program can visit www.transform386.org or call 386-943-7029. Send news tips to brent@ observerlocalnews.com.
Volusia County’s 1,517th sea turtle nest of 2026 set a new county record. Courtesy photos
Pierre Louis cuts the ribbon on his newly reconstructed home rebuilt through Volusia County’s Transform386 Homeowner Recovery Program.
Q+A PAUL RENNER, CANDIDATE FOR FLORIDA GOVERNOR
On affordability and freedom in Florida
BRIAN MCMILLAN PUBLISHER
Paul Renner is a veteran and attorney. He’s a Palm Coast resident. He served in the Florida House of Representatives from 2015 to 2024, including his final two years as the Speaker of the House. He will be on the Aug. 18 Republican ballot in the race to be Florida’s next governor. He’s got a plan, but polls show he has a tough battle ahead, as he is projected to earn less than 10% of the Republican vote.
What follows is an edited transcript of a July 23 interview.
The race’s Republican frontrunner, Byron Donalds, has been invited to be interviewed as well.
What is at the heart of your motivation to be governor?
I love the state. I’ve spent my whole life here. My grandfather moved here almost 100 years ago. My dad was born here. And of course I live moved here at 6 months of age and have lived here ever since, except for college and the Navy. And so I love this state. I don’t want to go backwards. We’ve become a victim of our success here in Florida. We’ve done so well that people want to be here. And as a result of that, you see skyrocketing home prices, insurance, taxes, electric bills, and I sense that people feel that we’re losing control of our destiny in Florida. You want someone at the helm who’s helped build the free state of Florida, but is going to preserve and protect it. We need to make sure we’re taking care of the people who are truly Florida residents. I think is the challenge of the moment.
If elected governor, what would you do to make Florida more affordable?
Right after I get inaugurated next January, I want a special session specifically on affordability to cover four things.
One is to address property taxes, depending on what happens on the ballot. I’m the only candidate with a specific plan to eliminate homestead property taxes, help small businesses, renters.
It’s a comprehensive plan that goes beyond just homestead property, with a combination of savings that we can do at all levels of government, with permanent DOGE across the state — the local government, university, special districts — to save a good chunk of that, so we don’t have to have replacement taxes.
But the ones we do, we want to shift the burden over to tourists, people who vacation here, who speculate here, out-of-state and outof-country private equity companies, who turn homes into rentals. They’ll pay a little bit more under my plan, and we’ll shift that burden away from those who make Florida home. That’s number one on taxes.
And then we have a plan to reduce insurance rates by 10% to 20% through a series of reforms, as well as electric rates by reforming how utilities charge, so they are prioritizing lower cost options, not getting paid a guaranteed profit based on how much they spend, which of course incentivizes them to spend more.
And then separately on affordability is stopping the construction of these 1.0 versions of the A.I. hyperscale data centers.
Imagine if you bragged to your friends about your music collection and you pointed to your wall and said, “Look at my eight-track tape collection.” That’s really what’s on offer with these data centers. Over time, they will get more manageable. But right now, this is a terrible deal for Florida. We
pendulum needs to come back into balance. That is partly the answer to how we control our own destiny when it comes to matters of growth and where things get built and making sure that local governments that know better about their communities than the state, will have control over the destiny of their communities by listening to their voters.
The Secret to Getting Better Results From Your Hearing Aids
Dr. Indira Alvarez, Au.D., F-AAA
Advertising often makes hearing aids seem like a simple product: Choose a device, put it in your ears, and start hearing better. It can create the impression that hearing aids are basically interchangeable and that the outcome will be the same regardless of which devices you choose—or where you purchase them.
But hearing care is not “one size fits all.”
pressure, or irritation in the ear canal.
need to take a pause on it statewide and then wait for those companies to offer us a better deal with technology that develops, because what’s going to happen is they’re actually going to abandon these large scale data centers that are going to be the dinosaurs, the eight-track tapes, if you will, of data centers in the future
Next I have a couple questions about some of the platforms on your website. How do you balance having compassion for your neighbors while also having zero tolerance for illegal immigration? Illegal immigration is driving up home prices. It’s putting a burden on taxpayers and in terms of education, health care — all the things that taxpayers have to foot the bill for, and people can’t afford their own bills. So, I’m compassionate for people who are Florida residents, U.S. citizens, and that’s where compassion belongs. Certainly, people that go through the process and become immigrants — I’m married to one — that’s a different story. But people that are coming across the border, people that should not be here, need to leave.
While speaker of the house, you promoted safeguards for children from social media exploitation. Is that mission accomplished or does more need to be done? More needs to be done. You now have A.I. on top of that. I’m not against A.I. as a technology, but the threat to kids is, it takes it up an order of magnitude. Humanity has to be in control of technology, not the other way around.
Your campaign website says you support instruction in American exceptionalism in schools. What does that mean to you? And are there aspects of our history that we should avoid teaching? We should never avoid teaching any aspects of our history. You should always be frank and honest about the good, the bad, and the ugly. But there’s a lot more good than bad or ugly.
Reagan said that we cannot guarantee freedom beyond a single generation. It’s not part of our bloodstream; it has to be inculcated. It has to be taught. It has to be transmitted and really given to the next generation to love this country for any of its faults. Freedom has always served society across the globe better. Too often you have the indoctrination, I would call it, of the other philosophy that views America as a place that ought to be torn to the ground.
More and more people see those who disagree with them as also being immoral. We tend to villainize people who disagree with us. What do you think we can do to be able to disagree but still be agreeable?
As a military veteran, I fought for everybody. I wore one uniform, and the guy next to me might have been a liberal
Democrat — I didn’t care. We were there for a mission and a purpose, which was the purpose of our country to protect our citizens in the case of Desert Storm, against Saddam Hussein and what was happening there and in Afghanistan, to go after the people that bombed the towers, at 9/11, and make sure we’re protected against the threat of Islam here in the homeland. And so that meant that you’re protecting everyone’s free speech, the right to petition for redress of grievances, right of press and assembly and everything. The challenge we have is a philosophy that does not believe any truth. It can’t define what a woman is. We’re at a crossroads, because as a person of faith, that’s where I get my capital T Truth. That’s where I get my north star, in terms of what leads to happiness, what leads to success, human thriving. And I think the keys to our 250 years has been faith, it’s family, it’s been patriotism.
And if you lose things like that, that you can rally around, then it’s hard for the nation to stay united. But I do believe we must have a united nation. As Lincoln said, “A house divided cannot stand.” And so I would make every effort to try to bridge that divide without compromising my belief in what I believe are timeless truths that make of Florida and America exceptional.
As governor and in the Legislature there is an ability to say, “That’s something that I don’t agree with,” and to outlaw it. Can other viewpoints coexist and still be legal? Ideas and speech have to coexist because the First Amendment dictates that they coexist. Having both sides debating these issues — the legislation gets better. It addresses some of the complaints by the Democrats in that case, or if the roles were reversed, Republicans raising objections, the Democrats would say, “OK, that’s probably true.” And so we get better laws as a result of that clashing of ideas. And it can be civil, but it can be vigorous.
We never silenced the opposition. With a supermajority, you can waive a lot of rules and just jam things through. I never did that.
We as the majority party had to argue why we’re doing what we’re doing and make the case, and it made us better — to deliver that case to voters.
How does this relate to the concept of Home Rule?
How do you balance saying, “We’re going to take the state in this direction, but we’re also going to respect that the local leaders also need to run things the best way that matches what their community desires”?
As I’ve spent time on the campaign trail, I’ve really come to a firm conclusion that people want more local control, and they deserve it.
We don’t want the federal government stripping away from us all of our ability to act at the state level, and so we shouldn’t do it to the local. So I do believe that
Last question: When I heard that you were going to run, and I’ve interviewed you many times — seen you rise to that level at the Speaker of the House — I assumed that you would be the front runner in this race. And right now, you’re not. What is the main reason that you think people should shift their support to you, as opposed to others that may be leading you in the polls? First of all, there’s certainly been an effort to try to — I don’t want to say rig the election — but to make sure that no money flows to any other candidate that can get their message out, but only to one candidate who refuses to even get on the stage and debate. So, it’s really an affront to the voters.
When we get our message in front of voters, we convert those votes, and we beat Byron Donalds. “Undecided” is still the frontrunner, always has been.
We believe we’ll convert a lot of those undecideds in the upcoming weeks before the election for five reasons:
One is, you want a proven leader who’s been battle tested. I served 20 years as a Navy commander. I served in two wars, leading under pressure as a state prosecutor, trying violent felons as a business owner. I was a partner in a business. I’ve had private sector experience and also leading the Florida House, about 500 employees. So, I’ve had these executive roles. That is important for an executive office like governor, and the other candidates come nowhere close.
The same is true for results. The governor (Ron DeSantis) said those two years were unprecedented among all the states in the country. We got more done in those two years when I was leading than any other two years in Florida history, frankly. And so, I just say when I was in charge, conservatives won every battle. But we also did some bipartisan things that were big wins, like social media, like the Florida Wildlife Corridor, protecting our environment.
Third is vision. We have a contract with Florida on our website, voterenner.com, a comprehensive a plan for the first 100 days, my written commitment to get after affordability, safety, health freedom, our environment, and also just keeping Florida free.
Fourth, I’ve led from the front with the governor when others have waited for the battle to come to them. In school board races and for amendments, I fought vigorously, traveled the state, spent over $2 million in 2024 alone out of the stuff we raised — money that I can’t use in the governor’s race. That’s what you should expect from a leader. The other guy sent out a post on social media, but that doesn’t get it done.
A fifth one is experience at the state. Byron Donalds was in Congress for the last five years. Not his fault, but I have much more experience at the state level. I know the incoming presiding officers and can work with all of them at a very high level and be effective on day one. There’s no on-the-job training because I was really the number two, as speaker of the house. I’m ready to go.
Successfully treating hearing loss requires much more than selecting a hearing aid.
A complete treatment process includes four essential steps:
1. A comprehensive hearing evaluation
2. Selection of the right hearing aids for your hearing loss, lifestyle, and needs
3. Precise programming and verification of the hearing aids to ensure they match your individual prescription
4. Comprehensive aural rehabilitation, counseling, and follow-up care after the fitting
Last month, we discussed why choosing the right hearing aid is so important. This month, we are focusing on something equally important: making sure those hearing aids are fitted accurately.
Even the most advanced hearing aids cannot provide their best results if they are not programmed correctly. Your audiologist must have the training, expertise, and specialized equipment needed to program your hearing aids to your individual hearing prescription—and then objectively verify that the devices are actually delivering the correct amount of sound.
Hearing Aids Are Fitted to a Prescription
Many people are surprised to learn that prescription hearing aids are fitted according to specific prescriptive targets based on the results of their hearing evaluation.
Think about what happens when you get new glasses. Your eye doctor examines your eyes and determines the prescription needed to help you see clearly. You might pick up someone else’s beautiful designer glasses, but if the prescription is not right for your eyes, you still will not see well.
Hearing aids work in a similar way—but fitting them is even more complex.
Glasses have a relatively fixed job: They correct your vision while your eyes do the focusing. Modern hearing aids, however, are constantly analyzing your listening environment. Their microphones and processing systems automatically adjust how they respond to speech, background noise, music, wind, and other sounds. Your hearing aids must therefore be programmed not only for the degree and pattern of your hearing loss, but also for the way you experience sound in everyday life. As your hearing changes, many prescription hearing aids can also be reprogrammed—provided the devices remain appropriate for your current hearing needs.
Why an Accurate Fitting Matters
When hearing aids are not fitted properly, you may feel that you are still struggling to understand speech, that voices are unclear, or that certain sounds are too soft or uncomfortably loud. An improperly fitted earpiece can also cause soreness,
Unfortunately, connecting hearing aids to a computer and accepting the manufacturer’s suggested settings does not prove that the fitting is correct. Every ear canal is shaped differently, and those differences affect how sound reaches the eardrum.
That is why best-practice hearing care includes Real-Ear Measures, commonly called REM.
During real-ear testing, a very small probe microphone is carefully placed inside the ear canal. Measurements are taken while you are wearing your hearing aids so the audiologist can determine exactly how much sound is reaching your eardrum. Those results are then compared with validated prescriptive targets based on your hearing evaluation. If the measurements do not match the targets, the audiologist adjusts the hearing aids and measures again until the fitting is appropriately optimized for your hearing. Real-ear verification should be completed when your hearing aids are initially fitted and repeated when there is a meaningful change in your hearing or programming needs. It is important to understand that simply connecting hearing aids to a computer and changing their settings is not real-ear measurement.
Doctors of Audiology receive extensive education and clinical training in hearing assessment and hearing-aid technology. However, patients should still ask whether their provider routinely performs Real-Ear Measures as part of the fitting process. The hearing aid you choose matters—but the expertise of the professional who evaluates, fits, verifies, and follows your progress can matter just as much. A properly selected hearing aid is only the beginning. Accurate fitting and verification are what help turn advanced technology into better hearing in the real world. If you already have hearing aids, and you aren’t hearing well, call and schedule an appointment to have real-ear measures performed on your current devices. If you are considering treating your hearing loss, make sure you ask “Do you verify your hearing aid fittings with REM? And where did you get your training?” At Palm Coast & Ormond Hearing Center, our mission is to not only provide the best quality hearing care possible, but also to educate the community and help all patients make informed decisions so they can get the care they need and deserve. Visit our website, www.palmcoasthearingcenter. com to learn more and schedule an appointment. We also have a locations in Ormond, learn more at www. Ormondhearingcenter.com.
Paul Renner, as pictured on his campaign Facebook page.
Volusia County considers 6-month A.I. data center moratorium
No data center projects are currently proposed, but council members want to establish safeguards.
RICH CARROLL
MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER
Volusia County officials are considering a temporary pause on new artificial intelligence data centers, directing staff to prepare a proposed six-month moratorium while the County Council studies how the rapidly expanding industry could affect water resources, utility infrastructure and environmentally sensitive areas.
The discussion took place during the County Council’s July 21 meeting, where members emphasized that no AI data center projects are currently proposed in Volusia County. Instead, council members said the county should be proactive and develop policies before an application is submitted.
Councilman David Santiago said increasing national attention on AI data centers prompted him to suggest the county consider a temporary pause while officials gather more information.
“I think it’s just getting so much more attention that I wanted to consider the thought process of — and I usually don’t say these words — but a six-month moratorium on data centers in Volusia while we get an understanding of what the trends are and understanding what protocols we can put in place to protect our community,” Santiago said.
Councilman Danny Robbins agreed that the county should base any future decisions on facts rather than speculation.
“There’s a lot of misinformation,” Robbins said. “We need factual information for the public. A lot of what I see is flashlight under the chin. I want to get by that. We want to deal in facts and not emotions.”
Robbins said he was not aware of any AI data center proposals currently before the county, making this an appropriate time to study the issue before one arrives.
“I don’t think there’s been one proposed in Volusia,” Robbins said. “But we do need to look at it and make sure if we do go forward ... my biggest concern was in accordance with our charter because there were water resources in our sensitive areas.”
AI data centers have caused concern for their potential demand for water and electricity. Council members said they want a better understanding of those impacts before considering any future projects in Volusia County.
“I’ve had more opportunity to look into it more since we last talked,” Santiago said. “I agree with you. There’s information on both sides of this. But maybe it may be prudent to put a six months out there, give us time to make some wise decisions and if we have to make any changes to protect us.”
County staff reminded council members that they had already requested information on data center regulations and that the issue was scheduled to return for discussion at an upcoming meeting. Santiago said he wanted
staff to go a step further by preparing a draft moratorium that council members could consider if they determine additional time is needed to study the issue.
“I want staff at that time to have prepared for us, if this council decides, a resolution ... for a six-month moratorium on that,” Santiago said before making the motion.
The motion received unanimous support from the County Council.
The action does not immediately halt AI data center development in Volusia County. Instead, it directs county staff to return with information on the industry’s potential impacts, possible regulations and a proposed six-month moratorium for the council’s consideration at a future meeting. If ultimately adopted, the moratorium would temporarily pause approvals for new AI data center projects while county officials evaluate whether additional development standards are needed to protect Volusia County’s water resources, utility systems and environmentally sensitive lands.
NEWS BRIEFS
Volusia creates domestic violence offender database
The Volusia County Council approved the creation of what will become Florida’s first local government-operated Domestic Violence Offender Database during its July 21 meeting. This online resource will make existing public record information about individuals convicted of qualifying domestic violence offenses in Volusia County easier for residents to access and search.
While records of qualifying convictions are available through the Volusia County Clerk of the Circuit Court’s public records system, the new database will consolidate that information into a single, searchable resource designed to help residents more easily locate relevant records and make informed, safety-conscious decisions.
The database will frequently synchronize with the clerk’s case management system, allowing newly qualifying convictions to be added and ensuring residents have access to current public record information through an easyto-use, searchable database.
The database will include individuals convicted of qualifying domestic violence or dating violence offenses in Volusia County within recent years. Information displayed will include the offender’s full legal name, date of birth, most recent qualifying booking photo, applicable case numbers, references to the applicable Florida statutes, and offense dates.
County staff will begin working in partnership with the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office to develop the database. Once it goes live,
residents will be able to access and search the database on the County’s website at www.volusia.gov, providing a centralized location for qualifying records. Additional details, including the database’s anticipated launch date, will be announced as development progresses.
Florida’s deportation orders surge
Since March, deportations ordered by immigration judges in Florida have increased 18 percent, according to recently released data.
In June, judges issued 5,415 removal orders, a 17.6 percent increase compared to March’s 4,605 removal orders, according to the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse (TRAC), a nonprofit that tracks immigration data.
Florida follows a national trend of an increase in deportation orders, which hit an all-time high of 79,000 in June, the most orders issued in a month so far in President Donald Trump’s second term.
Even though Florida remains one of the top states for overall deportations, it lagged behind an average national surge of 30 percent, as other states saw steeper climbs in the number of people ordered to be deported to their country of origin between the months of March to June.
For example, Illinois saw a 120 percent increase in removal orders, from 3,228 to 7,087 over the four-month period.
In June, removal orders were the most likely outcome in immigration court proceedings across the country, with 78 percent of the court cases resulting in deportation orders. Out of the 99,441 cases heard, 1,883 immigrants were allowed to remain in the country.
With 3,934 detainees,
Florida ranks fifth among states. About a quarter of immigrants detained in Florida are housed in a state-run immigration detention facility in Baker County dubbed Deportation Depot. Alligator Alcatraz, a billion-dollar tent facility located in the Everglades that was in operation for nearly a year, closed earlier this month. Miami-Dade County still leads with the most pending immigration court deportation cases out of any court in the country, with 137,373. Gas back to $4 a gallon in parts of Florida
Parts of Florida were back over $4 a gallon for gas as the state average approached that mark this week.
But questions remain about the future of pump prices as crude oil prices dropped after the U.S. and Iran curbed new attacks over the weekend, while the nation’s crude oil supply remains at a seasonal low.
“Where we stand now — national average could inch up, not spike,” Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, posted Sunday night on X. The national average was $4.11 on Monday, according to AAA. The mark was up 11 cents from a week earlier and 23 cents higher than a month ago, before military action against Iran resumed. Florida’s average of $3.98 per gallon on Monday was up 4 cents from a week earlier and 15 cents over the month, according to AAA numbers. Most of South Florida and the Big Bend region east of Tallahassee showed averages over $4, while the lowest averages were found across the Panhandle, with a low of $3.76 in Jackson County. For the prior few week, Monroe County was the lone part of the state with an average over $4.
Volusia County Councilman David Santiago. File photo by Jarleene Almenas
Ormond Beach Mainstreet hosts Christmas in July
The ninth annual celebration puts local shops in the spotlight.
SYDNEY TEVIN
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Ormond Beach Main Street
hosted its ninth annual Christmas in July celebration last week, with a scavenger hunt at 45 shops from July 18 to 25, culminating in events along Granada Boulevard on Saturday.
Hosted by the Mainstreet team of Becky Parker, Jade Bowling and Cassie Dixon, the event puts local shops in the spotlight. Residents visited the Mainstreet office throughout the day on Saturday to enter to win prizes.
Among the events elsewhere, The Casements hosted activities for children: a beach ball scavenger hunt around the historic Casement building. Participants received clipboards and prizes for spotting all the beach balls hidden throughout the premises. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus
made an appearance, greeting attendees as they walked through Ormond Beach.
Kaitlyn and her friend Addisin participated in the Christmas in July event.
When asked about their favorite part of the Christmas scavenger hunt, Kaitlyn said it was discovering the different rooms at the Casements.
“I like the dancing studio,” she said. “It’s like a ballet room.”
In addition to the holiday fun, Casements workers collaborated with Mainstreet to offer educational tours that taught visitors about the building’s history and significance.
Visit ormondbeachmainstreet.org.
Brian McMillan contributed to this story.
Pursuing peace, on the Observer’s opinion page
Curation in a time of social media.
BRIAN MCMILLAN PUBLISHER
In the past week, someone told me that the Observer is “just a MAGA rag”; then, someone else called it a “liberal rag.”
I’m a nice guy, to a fault, and it’s no fun to be in the political crossfire, but no one told me I had to be in the news business, so I can’t
complain.
These accusations have caused me to reflect a lot on why we do what we do.
A few years ago, when my wife and I bought the Observer, we decided to not endorse political candidates. Hailey and I felt it was best to stay focused on publishing the news in an unbiased fashion. Most people, I think, appreciated that approach, although we did receive a letter this week asking us to start endorsing again (we have no plans to do that). While imperfect, we can commit to this with a clear conscience: The Observer does not promote any particular political viewpoint or philosophy — only peacemaking. We promote peace by reporting on
what the government does and why, and also what our neighbors think and why. Then, if two neighbors disagree, at least they will understand each other’s motivations and be less likely to see each other as enemies.
What does this mean for our opinion page?
We encourage letters to the editor from all viewpoints, including from candidates. The letters should be of general interest on local topics and fewer than 400 words. We publish first and last names, plus the author’s city of residence.
We do not guarantee that all letters will be published in print and/or online, but we publish as many as we can. If someone writes a let-
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Editor’s note: The following two letters, by were submitted in response to a previous writer, Doug Pettit, who called them “hit men,” suggesting that the Lori Tolland campaign had “found” them, and that they were doing the campaign’s “dirty work.” Tolland declined to respond.
Responding to a letter that accused them of being campaign ‘hit men’
Dear Editor:
I am not involved with any campaign but exercise my constitutional rights by sharing my opinion. It’s disappointing that the letter was shared without reaching out to the citizens mentioned in it. I was under the impression the Observer did fact checking per policy prior to publication?
It seems that the Mayor Jason Leslie got preferential treatment prior to Mr. Weader’s letter being published. I guess us common folk just don’t get the same opportunity as the mayor.
JAMES POWERS Ormond Beach
Dear Editor: Doug Pettit’s letter about me being affiliated with Lori Tolland’s campaign was false. I am not affiliated with any campaign. Before it was published, I personally informed him that I have no connection to Lori Tolland’s campaign. Despite already knowing the truth, he published the opposite. I support the best candidate for the job, regardless of who that is. Readers deserve accurate reporting, not knowingly false claims.
I also question why the Ormond Beach Observer applied a different standard to Doug Pettit’s article. When I submitted an article
about Jason Leslie, it was scrutinized, fact-checked, and Jason Leslie was given an opportunity to respond. Consistent journalism requires the same level of scrutiny and fairness for everyone.
Jason Leslie has yet to respond to the claims I made in my article. Instead, he has made false personal claims against me rather than addressing the issues raised.
DERRICK WEADER
Ormond Beach
Editor’s Note: The Observer is committed to building bridges of understanding, which includes checking facts and giving all sides an opportunity comment. Rebuttals of rebuttals can get complicated in that process, but we agree that Powers and Weader should have been given an opportunity to reply to Pettit’s claims. We appreciate their responses now.
Equal space has not been provided to all candidates
Dear Editor: Kudos to the Observer for its recent publication of the Election Guide for the 2026 Primary on Aug. 18. Equal space for candidates and answers to key questions affecting our community were a definite plus. However, there are two things voters need to know that were not readily apparent. First, thinking of Aug. 18 as primary day masks the fact that, for purposes of local zone commissioner elections and that of our next mayor, it could be the race is over. Many Ormond Beach residents are not aware of the May 2019 change to our City Charter wherein a candidate who receives 50% plus one of the votes in the primary is automatically elected. Even though another candidate
may receive upwards of 49% of the the total vote, it’s all over. There is no runoff in November.
Second, why has the Observer, to date, given preferential treatment to certain candidates and mayoral contender Lori Tolland?
Allow me to use my Zone 4 to make this point. Despite the equal treatment of all candidates in the election guide, recent additional above-thefold, near half-page space was given to Harold Briley’s candidacy and that of Ms. Tolland.
I confirmed with Mayor Jason Leslie and Zone 4 candidate Barry DuMoulin that, as of the writing of this letter, the Observer offered neither equal space.
ter and includes a personal insult, we don’t publish the insult. We also don’t publish accusations that aren’t verified, and we don’t publish false statements of fact. We include clarifying “editor’s notes” when necessary, while trying our best to respect the author’s intent and not make it look like we are correcting their opinions. When a letter writer has personal insight or is a public figure, we sometimes treat their submission as a My View with a larger headline. We sometimes work with letter writers to help them meet our standards. If a writer speculates about another person’s motives, or makes an accusation, we may remove that portion of
the letter, or give the opposing party an opportunity for a rebuttal. We strive to be fair and respectful. We never intentionally exclude one viewpoint in favor of another, as long as the viewpoint in in pursuit of truth and not aimed to do harm to others.
What should the Observer do about personal attacks and claims of fact in the social media comments?
We have to acknowledge that social media’s success is mostly measured on engagement — even if that engagement is insulting or false. The Observer will not set aside its mission just to get more views. Instead, we intend to use our news and opinion pages to build bridges of
understanding. Intentions may not be enough, however.
Peacemaking starts with trust. Our next step to build trust in our newspaper is to establish more policies that eliminate even the perception of bias. We welcome suggestions. Email me at brian@ observerlocalnews.com.
BOB BAUMER Ormond Beach
This favored treatment to incumbent Briley and especially to Lori Tolland at the expense of our current mayor is a disservice to Ormond Beach voters. I would hope the Observer takes immediate steps to correct this unfairness so as much as possible is known about all candidates running to represent us on Aug.18.
Editor’s note: The Observer is publishing Q&A interviews with elected officials, including Briley and Tolland, as you mentioned. In that sense, the reason they were treated differently from their opponents is that they are making decisions that voters already elected them to make, so we are holding them accountable to their current roles. At the same time, while our process makes sense to us, it may not to others. And, we want people to trust the Observer completely, which means we need to do more to avoid even the appearance of preference. We will reach out to opposing candidates.
— Brian McMillan, publisher
The Clauses visited shops in the Ormond Beach Mainstreet district for Christmas in July, on July 25. Courtesy photo
Kaitlyn and Addisin Photo by Sydney Tevin
TAKING CENTER STAGE
cially retires July 31. “I work for the school district, which is incredible, and run the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center, where we bring professional plays, musicals and professional acts to our stage.”
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Craig Uppercue, the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center’s new director, is an overachiever and a multitasker. In other words, he’s perfect for his new role.
Uppercue is an employee of Flagler Schools, and he also runs a nonprofit — the performing arts center on the campus of Flagler Palm Coast High School.
He is not only the director at The Fitz, he is also the new adminstrator of the school district’s Flagler Youth Orchestra. And he is the director of the district’s K-12 Visual and Performing Arts programs, including the district’s dance, theater, band, choir, general music and 2D, 3D and digital arts programs.
“It’s a very unique position, because we are the only performing arts center in Florida that is directly affiliated with the public school district,” said Uppercue, who came on board July 8 and is replacing Amelia Fulmer, who offi-
Fulmer has been an educator with Flagler Schools for 38 years, the last seven as The Fitz’s director. She is moving to New Smyrna Beach where she will be on the board of trustees for the Hub on Canal, a downtown community arts center featuring rotating arts exhibitions and working artist studios. She is also on the board of directors for the Daytona Beach Symphony Society and is a Florida vocal Association choral adjudicator.
“I started all these things in the last six months, because I wanted to still have something to cook on and make new friends,” Fulmer said. “The last seven years, I’ve grown a lot and learned a lot about how to run a business. Now I’ll be doing quite a different thing, but I’m excited.”
In her final weeks with Flagler Schools, Fulmer has helped Uppercue transition into his new position.
“Craig has a lot to learn [about his new job], but I know that he can do it,” Fulmer said. “I know he’s got the right attitude. He’s got that growth mindset as all good educators do.”
None of his new roles are unfamiliar territory. Uppercue has most recently been Volusia County Schools’ fine arts specialist overseeing visual and performing arts programs. From 2013 to 2022, he was the artistic director for the Athens Theatre in DeLand, a full-time job, while also working full time for Volusia County Schools.
He taught music on the elementary, middle and high school levels for 16 years in Seminole and Volusia counties before moving into administration seven years ago. He earned a bachelor’s degree in music education at Stetson University, a master’s degree in educational leadership at Grand Canyon University and an education specialist degree in curriculum and instruction from Stetson. And he is wrapping up his doctorate degree in curricu-
lum instruction from Liberty University.
“All of my coursework and dissertation are done,” he said. “So I’m just waiting to cross the stage at this point.”
PERFORMER, TEACHER, ADMINISTRATOR
Uppercue lives in DeLand with his wife and three children and said he’s been enjoying the quiet time of his new commute. He wife told hime that if they move closer to Palm Coast it will be to north DeLand.
Uppercue’s new office is not far from The Fitz’s stage, a place where he feels at home. He is a percussionist. He performed in the orchestra for the “Lion King” on Broadway and on national tour.
He grew up in Tampa. Both of his parents are musicians and educators. His father taught music for 42 years in Hillsborough County Public Schools. His mother, a former banker, is now a guidance counselor. Uppercue grew up playing in the Tampa youth orchestras and also performed in professional theater.
He has experience for all the different roles his new job entails, but he’s never been able to combine them all under one umbrella.
“I think what’s most exciting is really combining all the things that I love in one place,” he said. “For at least the last 10 to 15 years, I felt very torn in my jobs with the Athens Theatre, and in the school district. I was being pulled in a lot of different directions, and it wasn’t for one common pur-
pose and one common mission.”
Now his jobs are all connected. The Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center is a direct support organization for Flagler Schools. The professional shows support the community. High school students, by their junior or senior year, get to work in theater in the sound and lighting department, doing stagehand work and stage managment, operating the spot light, as well as working in the front of the house — in the snack bar, learning how to manage the lobby, taking tickets, learning customer service while working with the box office staff.
“We refer to it often as the ultimate classroom for the arts,” he said. “So, they can have those opportunities where they’re learning and growing.”
Uppercue said Fulmer has grown a tremendous team at The Fitz with a staff that handles the box office, bookkeeping, ticket sales and marketing.
“When I think about arts and education,” he said, “the professional shows that come here allow us to give back to the school district, so that when it comes time we can utilize some of the funding that we may make as a nonprofit. We can help a school buy a tuba. We can help kids afford voice lessons. We can help the theater programs at the high schools.”
Uppercue hasn’t met The Fitz’s entire governing board yet. He said he’s going to take the next few months to get
Shows at
The Fitz
The Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center on the campus of Flagler Palm Coast High School presents both professional and community events.
There are 21 shows scheduled for the 202627 season, which opens on Oct. 13 with “The President’s Own United States Marine Band,” a free show.
“That’s very exciting,”
Craig Uppercue, the center’s new director, said. “That’a free concert and that’s a really big deal. That is probably the most difficult military band to be a part of.” Uppercue, a child of the ’80s, is also excited about the Oct. 30 show, “80’s night with the American Sirens and Heart Throb.”
Other highlights include: “Black Tie Optional: A Tribute to Michael Buble and Beyond,” on Nov. 20.
“My dear friend plays bass for the real Michael Buble,” Uppercue said. “I love that style. I love jazz music, so I’m excited to see that.”
“Elements: The Ultimate Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute,” is scheduled for Nov. 27. “The FROST Holiday Variety Cirque Show,” is scheduled for Dec. 4.
“It’s going to be very Cirque du Soleil, with people swinging through the air and doing tricks on stage and all set to music,” Uppercue said.
Comedian Rita Rudner will be at the Fitz on Feb. 5.
“Michael Cavanaugh, the Music of Billy Joel and Elton John,” will be here on March 12.
To see the complete season’s schedule and to order tickets, go to flaglerentertainment. com/events.
to know all of the Fitzgerald’s stakeholders including folks who regularly attend the shows as well as those who never come, so he can see what shows The Fitz can bring in to appeal to the next generation.
Fulmer said Uppercue’s new responsibilities are all in the name of arts education.
“So, I’m excited for Mr. Uppercue to come in and give a little bit more emphasis to that,” she said, “because that’s what I’ve tried to do.”
Flagler Tiger Bay Club Vice President Amelia Fulmer. Photo by Brian McMillan
Craig Uppercue, the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center’s new director, was recently Volusia County Schools’ fine arts specialist. Photo by Brent Woronoff
Craig Uppercue has a new home with Flagler Schools and the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center
LOCAL EVENTS
THURSDAY, JULY 30
PENINSULA WOMENS CLUB
GAMES
When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Peninsula Womens Club, 415 S. Peninsula Drive, Daytona Beach
Details: Play Bridge, Samba, “Hand, Foot and Elbow” players. All ladies who enjoy cards welcome. Call Betsy Patton at 386-843-1061.
FRIDAY, JULY 31
WELLNESS PAINT PARTY
When: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: The Casements, 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond
Beach
Details: Gina Bickish will lead this step-by-step painting instruction. All supplies provided. Bring an apron, smock or old shirt. Class costs $40. Call 386-956-6891 to register.
SUMMER SOUNDS When: 6-8 p.m.
Where: Rockefeller Gardens, 26 Riverside Drive, Ormond
Beach
Details: Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a free concert by the Black Velvet Duo, who will perform a variety of classic hits from different genres.
SATURDAY, AUG. 1
HALIFAX REPERTORY THEATRE PRESENTS
‘HADESTOWN: TEEN
EDITION’
When: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, July 31, Aug. 1, 7 and 8; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 2 and 3
Where: Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center, 399 N. U.S. 1, Ormond Beach
Details: See this performance by the Halifax Repertory Theatre. Tickets cost $25 for students; $35 for adults. Visit https://ormondbeachperformingartscenter.csstix.com.
ORMOND FIRST SATURDAY
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.
SHOE GIVEAWAY
When: 4-7 p.m.
Where: Dickerson Center, 308 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd., Daytona Beach
Details: Organized by “Give To Live,” hundreds of gently used athletic shoes will be disbursed. Give To Live is an environmentally conscious group helping the community while promoting environmental awareness through recycling and reducing goods. For more information, call Thanda Le Roux at 386-307-9442.
MONDAY, AUG. 3
READ, LISTEN, PLAY!
When: 10:30 a.m.
FOCUS ON FAITH
Salty Church Pastor Robbie O’Brien makes a 30-day prayer challenge
Salty Church Lead Pastor Robbie O’Brien challenged the members to embark on a 30-day challenge utilizing the Lord’s Prayer.
“There is no substitute for your direct connection with God. You can’t farm it out. You can’t hire somebody else to do it or phone it in, right?
You need to connect,” O’Brien said. He began the prayer with the entire church: “Our father
in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread, and forgive us
for our debts, as we have also forgiven our debtors.”
O’Brien began to reiterate the importance of forgiveness: “If you forgive others,
Long weekends are in.
For a limited time, save 50% on select Sunday and Monday night stays.
Where: Ormond Beach
Regional Public Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach
Details: Toddlers, preschoolers and their caregivers are invited to drop in for an interactive learning experience. Explore stories through books, audiobooks, educational technology, virtual resources, building activities, scavenger hunts, and handson play.
THURSDAY, AUG. 6
PENINSULA WOMENS CLUB
GAMES
When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Peninsula Womens Club, 415 S. Peninsula Drive, Daytona Beach Details: Play Bridge, Samba, “Hand, Foot and Elbow” players. All ladies who enjoy cards welcome. Call Betsy Patton at 386-843-1061.
FRIDAY, AUG. 7
FREE FAMILY ART NIGHT: FAUVISM STYLE PET
PORTRAITS
When: 5:30-7 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78
E. Granada Blvd., Ormond
Beach Details: Drop in for a free family art project activity. Create a mixed media gnome and fairy house. All instruction and supplies are provided. No registration or art experience is necessary. All ages welcome.
SATURDAY, AUG. 8
ANNUAL STUFF THE BUS
DONATION DRIVE
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 8 and 9
Where: Tanger Outlets Daytona Beach, 1100 Cornerstone Blvd., Daytona Beach Details: Tanger Outlets Daytona Beach is kicking off back-to-school season with its annual Stuff the Bus donation drive. Donate school supplies, clothing, shoes and backpacks to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Volusia-Flagler Counties, with the first 50 donors each day receiving a free backpack.
FOODS THAT BUILT AMERICA
When: 2 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Regional Public Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach
Details: Learn about the history of lunchboxes in this cooking demonstration presented by library staff. Free program.
ORMOND BEACH
MAINSTREET’S 30TH
ANNIVERSARY BLOCK PARTY
When: 5-9 p.m.
Where: Under the bridge at Cassen Park
Details: Party like it’s 1996, celebrating the 30th annivesary of Ormond Beach Mainstreet. An evening full of music, local food, street art, games, nostalgia, and good vibes under the bridge at Cassen Park. Whether you’ve supported Main Street for decades or just discovered the district, this celebration is for everyone who has helped shape the energy and spirit of our community.
then your Heavenly Father will forgive you, but if you don’t, he won’t.”
He said it’s not necessary for the greater good to immediately forget someone’s wrongdoings.
Then, the concept of forgiveness was broken up into two parts and displayed on the large TV screen for the congregation to view.
Part one states, “Forgiving someone else does not require you to trust them.”
Furthermore, part two states, “It is releasing the debt they owe.”
In terms of baptism, this act can symbolically represent the releasing of one’s
debt, and then emerging from the water “clean.”
Toward the end of the service, O’Brien told his church members that bowls of ocean water were meticulously placed throughout the church.
He urged his members to utilize the water as a reminder that each individual is forgiven and cleansed through each baptism. O’Brien said that individuals could simply dip their fingers in the water, or perhaps, make the outline of a cross atop their foreheads.
“The water is a reminder, a tool. Some of you need that,” O’Brien said. Prior to the conclu-
sion of the service, O’Brien asked some reflection questions: When are you eager or reluctant to accept God’s gift of forgiveness? When are you eager or reluctant to give the gift of forgiveness?
Salty Church is located at 221 Vining Court, Ormond Beach. The church services take place at 5:30 p.m. Saturdays, and 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and noon on Sundays.
Brought to you by:
Stephenson, Wilcox and Associates
Salty Church Pastor Robbie O’Brien leads his new series, “The Prayer Experiment.” Courtesy photo
YOUR SCHOOLS
Seabreeze High School’s new principal is moved by Sandcrab spirit
Meet Seabreeze High School’s new principal, Jodi Lewitt.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
When Jodi Lewitt was thinking about becoming an administrator, Seabreeze High School was at the top of her wish list.
The faculty. The students. The alumni. The community support. All of that stood out to Lewitt.
“Our mantra of ‘Once a Sandcrab, always a Sandcrab’ — it is so true,” Lewitt said. “... A lot of our faculty were students here. The alumni want to come back. They want to participate. They bring their kids here. We have three or four generations of families here because they want their kids to graduate from Seabreeze.”
Now, Lewitt is taking the lead as the school’s new principal, succeeding Tucker Harris, who is now the director of secondary schools for Volusia County Schools. Lewitt is entering her 23rd year in education. She started working
for VCS in 2004. And she’s not a stranger on the sandbar. Lewitt previously served as the school’s assistant principal since 2022.
Seabreeze is currently an A rated school, for the third year in a row. It’s also the 11th highest-ranked non-charter, non-magnet high school in the state, according to the district.
So Lewitt’s goal for the upcoming school year is simply to keep the momentum going.
“We’re going to keep on keeping on because it’s working,” Lewitt said. As a former teacher, 14 years of which were spent at the elementary level, Lewitt said that coaching remains a big part of the job.
Whether it’s a student or a teacher, as a principal, you’re still trying to inspire and motivate using similar strategies.
Going into education, she said, was always going to be her path.
“I don’t think there was ever a question,” Lewitt said. “... I love mentoring and helping others, and love learning — I have a passion for learning.”
“Throughout my career, I have learned that the strongest schools are built on meaningful relationships, open communication, and a shared commitment to student success. I am excited to bring that same continued commitment to Seabreeze.”
Lewitt expressed her excitement at becoming Seabreeze’s new principal in a recent message to students and their families.
She encouraged them to stay connected and involved in the school.
“Throughout my career, I have learned that the strongest schools are built on meaningful relationships, open communication, and a shared commitment to student success,” Lewitt wrote. “I am excited to bring that same continued commitment to Seabreeze.”
Seabreeze High School principal Jodi Lewitt. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
REAL ESTATE
Ocean Hammock home sells for $3.2 million
Ahouse at 34 Hammock Beach Circle South, in Ocean Hammock, was the top real estate transaction for July 11-17 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The house sold on July 15, for $3.2 million. Built in 2009, the house is a 6/5 and has a pool, a hot tub, an elevator, a fireplace and 5,324 square feet. It sold in 2017 for $1,900,000. The house was listed by Anthony Lombardo, of Coastal Gateway Real Estate Group.
ALEXIS MILLER
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Palm Harbor A house at 4 Fortress Court, sold on July 17, for $405,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,536 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $330,000.
A house at 18 Old Oak Drive N., sold on July 17, for $1,205,000.
shutters throughout, and the full fenced backyard on an oversized, pie-shaped lot. $375000 Call Grace Barbeiro 386-334-9997.
PALM COAST
Indian Trails
A house at 64 Bennett Lane, sold on July 17, for $448,000. Built in 2026, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,311 square feet.
A house at 35 Burning Ember Lane, sold on July 17, for $500,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool, a hot tub and 2,150 square feet. It sold in 2002 for $124,600.
Lehigh Woods
A house at 25 Ryecroft Lane, sold on July 16, for $270,000. Built in 1999, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,264 square feet. It sold in 2024 for $272,000.
A house at 114 Red Mill Drive, sold on July 15, for $444,000.
Built in 2006, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 2,348 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $450,000.
A house at 42 Rose Drive, sold on July 15, for $345,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,700 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $339,900.
A house at 10 Rale Place, sold on July 15, for $310,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,467 square feet. It sold in 2024 for $325,400.
Ocean Hammock
A house at 27 Las Palmas Way, sold on July 17, for $1,750,000. Built in 2017, the house is a 5/4.5 and has a pool, a hot tub, a summer kitchen, a fireplace and 4,457 square feet.
Florida Beaches Real Estate celebrates 5 years
Jordan Farrell and Tony Garren and their team celebrated the five-year anniversary of Florida Beaches Real Estate Co. on July 24, with a ribbon cutting, in association with the Palm Coast-Flagler Regional Chamber of Commerce. The business, located at 701 N. Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach specializes in
Flagler Beach, Palm Coast and the surrounding areas.
After the ribbon cutting, the company posted a message on Facebook:
“Our hearts are full... To our customers, friends, family, business partners, and community, thank you for your trust, support, and encouragement over the past five years. ...
“Thank you for being part of our journey. The best is yet to come, and we’d love for you to be part of it.”
PALM COAST
Florida Beaches Real Estate Company turns 5 years old. Courtesy photo
Riverfront Ormond home sells for $2.2M
Ahouse on the Halifax River at 1210 John Anderson Drive was the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormond-bythe-Sea for the week of July 4-10. The house sold on July 8, for $2.2 million. Built in 1995, the house is a 3/4 and has a fireplace, a pool, a spa, a dock, an outdoor kitchen, an elevator and 4,788 square feet. The house was listed by Chris Lohman, of Starr Real Estate LLC.
JARLEENE ALMENAS
MANAGING EDITOR
Condos
The condo at 1415 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 1002, sold on July 10, for $445,000. Built in 1974, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,300 square feet. It last sold in 2004 for $335,000.
The condo at 1 John Anderson Drive, Unit 710, sold on July 10, for $395,000. Built in 1996, the condo is a 2/2.5 and has 2,230 square feet. It last sold in 2005 for $420,000.
The condo at 2700 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 209, sold on July 9, for $229,000. Built in 1986, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,025 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $168,500.
ORMOND BEACH
Assessors Ormond Beach
The house at 276 John Anderson Drive sold on July 9, for $1,725,000. Built in 1963, the house is a 6/4.5 and has a fireplace, a dock, a boat lift and 5,018 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $1.4 million.
Halifax Plantation
The house at 428 Rexford Circle sold on July 8, for $575,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 2,329 square feet. It last sold in 2025 for $545,000.
The house at 1128 Killarney Drive sold on July 8, for $470,000. Built in 2001, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 2,159 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $340,000.
Hunter’s Ridge
The house at 21 Meadow Ridge Way sold on July 7, for $315,000. Built in 1996, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,831 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $295,000.
The house at 171 Pergola Place sold on July 10, for $449,000. Built in 2016, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,371 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $264,600.
Northbrook
The house at 909 Northbrook Drive sold on July 6,
for $335,000. Built in 1980, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,604 square feet. It last sold in 1998 for $91,200.
Oak Forest The house at 1329 Oak Forest Drive sold on July 9, for $1,335,000. Built in 1977, the house is a 4/2.5 and has a fireplace, a dock, a boat house, a boat lift, a pool and 3,209 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $750,000.
Ormond Lakes The house at 34 Emerald Oaks Lane sold on July 10, for $1,020,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 4/3 with two half baths and has a fireplace, a pool, a spa and 4,012 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $657,500.
Plantation Bay The house at 915 Brookridge Lane sold on July 6, for $405,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,607 square feet. It last sold in 2014 for $183,000.
WEST DAYTONA BEACH
A house in Latitude Margaritaville at 228 Cheeseburger Drive was the top real estate transaction in Daytona Beach’s 32124 zip code for the week of July 4-10. The house sold on July 8, for $820,000. Built in 2021, the house is a 2/2.5 and has a pool and 2,339 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $473,300. The house was listed by Kelley Saranti, of Bob Hodges and Sons Realty.
Grande Champion
The house at 113 Gleneagle Grande Drive sold on July 7, for $328,000. Built in 4/2 and has 1,920 square feet. It last sold in 2015 for $185,700.
Highridge Estates
The house at 1433 Tommy Hitchcock Ave. sold on July 10, for $210,000. Built in 1987, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,099 square feet. It last sold in 2005 for $161,500.
Silver Pines
The house at 1756 Valencia Ave. sold on July 10, for $245,000. Built in 1971, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,206 square feet. It last sold in 2014 for $51,900.
Standish Shores
The house at 209 Standish Drive sold on July 6, for $453,000. Built in 1963, the house is a 5/3.5 and has 2,990 square feet. It last sold in 2009 for $202,000.
Tomoka Oaks
The house at 71 N. St. Andrews Drive sold on July 7, for $460,000. Built in 1968, the house is a 4/3 and has a fireplace, a pool and 2,498 square feet. It last sold in 2025 for $293,300.
Trails South Forty
The townhome at 104 Horseshoe Trail sold on July 10, for $226,500. Built in 1984, the townhome is a 2/2 and has 1,411 square feet. It last sold in 20211 for $150,000.
ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA
Not in subdivision
The house at 31 River Shore Drive sold on July 10, for $320,000. Built in 1956, the house is a 2/1 and has 996 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $365,000.
Ormond Beach Plaza
The house at 3580 Ocean Shore Blvd. sold on July 10, for $1,050,000. Built in 2007, the house is a 4/3.5, including a 1/1 guesthouse, and has a private beach walkover and 3,142 square feet. It last sold in 1995 for $90,000.
John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.
Latitude Margaritaville
The house at 149 Gypsy Palace Lane sold on July 6, for $590,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,922 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $537,600.
The house at 786 Jollymon Way sold on July 7, for $643,700. Built in 2019, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a pool and 2,394 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $678,000.
Legends Preserve
The house at 1008 British Circle sold on July 10, for $360,000. Built in 2026, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,908 square feet.
LPGA
The house at 201 Ekana Circle sold on July 10, for $390,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,770 square feet. It last sold in 2011 for $180,000.
Sunlea breaks ground at Ormond Crossings
Part of the Ormond Crossings development, Sunlea broke ground on July 9. The development is projected to have over 400 homes.
“This represents another step in the long-planned Ormond Crossings development and reflects the continued growth and evolution of our community,” the Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce said in
a Facebook post. “We appreciate the invitation to be part of this significant occasion and look forward to seeing the community continue to take shape.”
The builder in the development is Meritage Homes. Ormond Crossings is a mixed-use project located south of U.S. 1 and along both the east and west sides of I-95, with land in both Volusia and Flagler counties. In addition to building about 2,550 residential units, Ormond Crossings will have a commerce park and a town center with retail, restaurants and outdoor areas.
Mile Marker 803
Clubhouse opens in European Village
A new sports bar has opened in European Village: Mile Marker 803 celebrated with a ribbon cutting earlier this month. The establishment, in Units A101 and A102 at 101 Palm
Parkway in Palm Coast, is an upscale bar with live music scheduled in the coming days. According to an interview with BusinessDebut.com, it’s owned by Chris Moore and Pamela Moore, who also own Pelican Pub, in St. Augustine. The name comes from the location of the Hammock Dunes Bridge, which is at Nautical Mile 803, according to the restaurant’s Facebook page.
And we’re committed to helping it grow. Investing time and resources into our communities has been part of the Intracoastal Bank story since day one. From supporting local businesses to funding dreams and giving back, every decision we make is guided by those we serve. Come experience a bank committed to making a bigger difference.
Palm Coast OKs land sale for proposed $31M rehabilitation hospital
Council unanimously approves land sale for 36-bed facility expected to create more than 100 jobs.
RICH CARROLL MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER
Palm Coast leaders approved the sale of approximately 8.5 acres of city-owned land last week, clearing the way for a proposed $31 million inpatient rehabilitation hospital that officials say will bring more than 100 high-paying jobs while expanding access to specialized health care.
The Palm Coast City Council, acting as the State Road 100 Community Redevelopment Agency Board unanimously approved the purchase and sale agreement with Sanders Trust LLC for the former Whispering Pines redevelopment site.
The proposed 36-bed hospital will be leased to and operated by ClearSky Health. According to the city, the project is expected to create more than 100 full-time jobs with an average annual salary of approximately $75,000, generate about $45 million in construction-related economic activity and eventually produce an estimated $310,000 annually in tax increment revenue for the State Road 100 Community Redevelopment Area through 2034.
While council members expressed strong support for the project itself, much of their discussion centered on protecting the city’s investment if the development does not move forward as proposed.
Vice Mayor Theresa Pontieri asked staff to explore adding a “clawback” provision to the agreement that would require the developer to pay the full appraised value of the property if a substantially similar hospital is never built.
“It seems like we’re kind of giving a break a little bit on the sales price because of what they’re proposing to develop,” Pontieri said. “If they don’t propose to develop that ... that they pay the appraised value and not get a break on that price.”
City Attorney Marcus Duffy said such a provision would require the agreement of both parties, while staff explained they had already pursued similar language during negotiations.
Pontieri said she supports the project but wants to ensure the city’s discounted sale price remains tied to the promised investment.
Staff responded that Sanders Trust has already executed a 20-year lease with ClearSky Health that is contingent upon purchasing the property
and constructing the hospital. They also said negotiations included commitments demonstrating the developer intends to move forward with the project.
Council member Ty Miller focused his questions on the final privately owned parcel within the redevelopment area, asking whether the remaining resident had been treated fairly and whether nearby businesses would continue to have access after construction.
Staff said Sanders Trust has agreed to provide moving assistance for the tenant and confirmed neighboring businesses, including AK Tires, will maintain access to their properties. The redevelopment is the culmination of more than two decades of work within the State Road 100 Community Redevelopment Area.
The city and CRA began assembling the former Whispering Pines neighborhood in 2005, purchasing 22 residential lots, removing aging structures, wells and septic systems, and preparing the land for redevelopment. The city invested more than $3.16 million acquiring the properties during the height of the real estate market. Today, the assembled 8.5-acre site has an appraised value of approximately $2.8 million. Three development proposals were submitted, with Sanders Trust unanimously selected by the city’s evaluation committee.
According to the city, the hospital will specialize in inpatient rehabilitation for patients recovering from strokes, heart attacks, brain and spinal cord injuries, orthopedic conditions, cancer and pulmonary illnesses.
Community Development Director John Zobler said in a city news release the project represents a major investment in Palm Coast’s future.
“This is a tremendous win for Palm Coast residents and a strong example of City Council’s commitment to creating high-quality jobs while strengthening our tax base,” Zobler said. “This project turns previously blighted property into a major private investment that will expand access to specialized health care and generate revenue that can support continued improvements throughout the State Road 100 corridor.” ClearSky Health currently operates 16 inpatient rehabilitation hospitals nationwide, including facilities in Lecanto and Lake City.
Once the remaining private property acquisition is completed, the hospital project must still undergo Palm Coast’s standard development review and permitting process before construction can begin.
Rendering of the proposed 36-bed ClearSky Health rehabilitation hospital. Image courtesy of the City of Palm Coast
Sunlea is being developed by Meritage Homes, as part of Ormond Crossings. Photo posted on the Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce Facebook page
Mile Marker 803 Clubhouse, in European Village, was named for the nautical mile marker of the nearby Hammock Dunes Bridge. Photo posted by George Hanns on Facebook
‘Moment of Collision’ named Best of Show at Casements Camera Club
The Casements Camera Club has announced the winners for its 13th annual Spring Exhibit at a special reception held in The Casements Gallery.
The show entries were judged by the Casements Camera Club members as well as a special “People’s Choice Award” chosen by popular vote by the general public.
Gloria Lotzer won Best of Show with “Moment of Collision” and Jeanne Figurelli took home The People’s Choice Award for “Double Vision.”
Larry Parker earned First Place for “The Flaming Lily” with Donna Armstrong placing Second with “Lady of the Lake.” Janet Bernardini took Third Place with “Leafy Red Lettuce.”
–MICHELE OLIVER.
CASEMENTS CAMERA CLUB
Larry Parker’s “The Flaming Lily” won first place.
Donna Armstrong’s “Lady of the Lake” won second place.
Gloria Lotzer’s “Moment of Collision” won Best of Show at the Casements Camera Club’s 13th annual Spring Exhibit. Courtesy photos
Jeanne Figurelli’s “Double Vision” was chose by popular vote for the People’s Choice award.
SPORTS
DAY ONE
Coach Mike Klein is excited about his 3rd season with Seabreeze.
MICHELE MEYERS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Seabreeze head football coach Mike Klein kicked off his third preseason with the Sandcrabs on Monday, July 27, with a state-mandated non-contact practice.
Klein said that due to the non-contact nature of the first week of practice, there is little physicality on the field; therefore, the emphasis is on learning the game.
Through individual drills, his players are understanding their stance, technique and steps while team drills teach them who to block, where they fit, and who to cover.
“We’ve got the culture established now, and we’ve got a lot of good leadership from the older guys,” he said.
“I think everybody’s really excited to be back out there. Learning the game is really the focus of this week. It was a good, good day one.”
Returning on defensive line are rising seniors Hezekiah Perea, Matthew Wells and Simeon Daffin, who have played together for the past three years. New to the group
is Father Lopez transfer Nick Viscomi. Coming in behind them are rising juniors Tristan Mobley, Jaycob Acosta, and Jacob Doherty.
“We’ve got a group on the defensive line coming back that I really like,” Klein said. “We’ve got a lot of depth on that line, and some real athleticism. So I think that group’s going to really shine for us.”
Offensive coordinator Matt Dickman is going into his second season at Seabreeze.
At this point, the players on offense are familiar with the system and each other, Klein said. They know when to communicate and call their blocks and schemes.
“I think we have a tightknit offensive line group up front,” Klein said. “I know for me defensively we took such a big jump from year one to year two. So I think we’re going to see that on that side of the ball this season. We’re just starting in a position now where we’re so much further ahead than where we were last year at this time.”
Wide receiver Danny Spada returns to the fold as a rising senior. He led the team with 110 receiving yards last season. He said his teammates may have had first-day jitters because he saw a lot of slacking on the first day of practice.
Gone fishing
Mainland football coaches and players gathered at the Port Orange Causeway Park on Wednesday, July 22, for brotherhood and camaraderie. PAGE 7B
“Honestly, kids are getting complacent, and we hold ourselves to a higher standard than that,” he said. “I need to lead and encourage them. Not tell them what they’re doing wrong. Tell them how to fix what they’re doing wrong. They have to want it as bad as me.”
Rising sophomore Noah Bogdanowicz is Seabreeze’s starting quarterback entering the season. He has played in the hot seat since he was 6 years old. His oldest brother, Tyler, was a quarterback and has been teaching him a lot about the nuances of the position.
“There were a few stupid mistakes (at practice), but I think the guys are trying pretty hard to get better out here,” he said. “I feel a little bit of pressure (as starting quarterback), but I’m trying to really prepare myself for game time.”
Klein said a quarterback needs to run the offense, know where everybody lines up, make checks and read coverages. It is not an easy job, Klein said, but as a rising sophomore, Bogdanowicz is mentally much further ahead than most players his age.
“He’s got a great demeanor,” Klein said. “He’s very calm, cool, and collected. He’s a competitor, but he’s never two up or two down. He’s always focused on where he needs to be, and so he’s got a lot of great qualities. I’m really excited for him going into just his sophomore year to be our guy.”
New to the coaching staff are Bobby Kestri, who is working with the receivers; Ben
Mainland, Father Lopez at Media Days
Highlights from interviews streamed from Central Florida Media Days, July 23 at Seminole State College, Heathrow campus.
MAINLAND: The Buccaneers were 9-3 last year during Jerrime Bell’s second season. They lost to Ponte Vedra in the Region 1-5A final. Mainland had a tough schedule last season. It’s even tougher this year.
They start with fivetime state champion Miami Carol City in the season opener on Aug. 21 at Daytona Stadium, and the schedule also includes 2025 Class 7A state champ Lake Mary and runner-up Vero Beach.
“If we’re going to be the team, we think we are, we got to go play those type of teams,” Bell said. “We had some tough matchups last year, but I don’t think we were as battle tested as we needed to be. …
Williams, who is working with the backs and receivers; and Bethune-Cookman University graduate Joshua Thornhill, who will be assisting the secondary with the defensive backs.
Kerry Kramer returns as the defensive line coach. He has been coaching at Seabreeze for 41 years. After “encouraging” his players to run and “not walk on his grass,” he commented on the first official practice before the season.
“First one of 41,” he said. Seabreeze will travel to play Matanzas in a preseason game on Aug. 14.
The Sandcrabs lost 18-10 to the Pirates during Klein’s first season and came back to win 21-11 last year. Klein said he respects coach Matt Forrest and his work.
“This week and next week are really about us,” Klein said. “We probably won’t really get into the nuts and bolts of Matanzas until that first week of school, that game week, because we want to get everything in on offense and defense. As we go through the year, we’ll be able to pull those things back out and use them as we go.”
The Sandcrabs open the season on Aug. 21 “on the road” at Father Lopez, across the street from their home field at Daytona Stadium.
When coach (Toro) Wallace got the job down in Carol City, I probably reached out to him within the first 48 hours and said, let’s play. I knew he was bringing the city of Miami with him.” Bell on the Bucs’ rivalry with DeLand, 13-1 last year: “DeLand is one of the biggest rivalry games we have. With one of our other little rivals not being as tough as they used to be, DeLand [is] the biggest rival we have on the schedule.”
Senior linebacker Shawn Holmes on trying to reach 100 tackles this season: “Last year, I was learning from [Dennis ‘Tank’ King III, now with the University of South Florida]. I’m taking that to the field this year.
I’ve been working on my fundamentals, my technique in the off-season, making sure I get my body right, so I can get to that 100-tackle goal.”
FATHER LOPEZ: The Green Wave were 6-5 last year and made the playoffs in coach Mark Gabbard’s first
season. Gabbard said the team has a leadership book called “Extreme Ownership,” given to the team’s leadership group of about 15 players, who stay after practice once a week.
“We just go through that book, and we talk about what does leadership look like, how do we engage certain situations when they arise, and how do we respond to that,” Gabbard said.
Sophomore WR Owen Albert: “We’re not the most athletic team, but we’re going to be the most disciplined.”
Senior RB/S Maverick Grimm (567 yards rushing, 48 tackles, four sacks last season): “For me, it’s less about personal stats and more about using my strengths and talents to help the team win. Last year, I was playing defensive end. Now, I’m at safety. I’m still playing running back, but now we’ve got a whole new system we’re working on, and I’ll be a little more of a blocking back.”
“We’ve got the culture established now, and we’ve got a lot of good leadership from the older guys. I think everybody’s really excited to be back out there. Learning the game is really the focus of this week. It was a good, good day one.
MIKE KLEIN,Seabreeze head football coach
Seabreeze’s Leon Murray (right) catches the ball with Jace Perez in coverage. Photos by Michele Meyers
Kai Campbell (right) runs a route as K.J. Willis tracks him.
Wide receiver Danny Spada (5) goes up for a catch.
FISHING FOR FELLOWSHIP
my passion is now their passion.”
MICHELE MEYERS
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Fishing and fellowship were the only topics on the Buccaneers’ agenda on Wednesday, July 22, at the Port Orange Causeway Park. For the third year in a row, Mainland head football coach Jerrime “Squatty” Bell invited his coaches and players to take a break from the typical off-season grind and join him for a little team bonding and camaraderie. This year, it was at the fishing pier under the Dunlawton Bridge.
Bell said before he had kids with hectic schedules of their own, he would sit by the river after work and immerse himself in its beauty and peace.
“These guys actually share it with me now because I don’t get out as often, and they’re usually on the water fishing,” he said. “They know the right spots and all this type of stuff. It’s good to see what once was
Following a grueling summer of 7-on-7 competitions, practice in “feels-like” temperatures of over 100 degrees, lifting and team analytics, Bell said it is important for his players to build friendships outside the sport.
“It’s important to get the boys together outside of just sports and the hustle and bustle that comes with the sport,” he said. “To have them come out and enjoy each other’s company outside of football is vital. They get to find out what each other’s personality really is, and it’s peaceful on the water. I love to see my boys outside of their natural element that we see them in, and just see them be kids.”
Rising senior linebackers Shawn Holmes and Isaac Strozier agreed that fishing together was an important bonding experience for the team. Strozier said it was fun to bond with people he normally does not talk to because they play different positions or spots on the field.
“It’s important so we can all build a brotherhood bond and become a family with each other,” Holmes said. “We can’t just be a family on the field or
in the weight room. We have to be family friends outside of it. Having a bond outside of football makes everything feel more natural on the field.”
Texas Christian University javelin thrower Preston Kuznof said he joined the “fishermen” to support Bell, his former Atlantic High School football coach, and Holmes, who is his cousin.
Kuznof is a two-time Florida state champion javelin thrower, broke the TCU school throwing record his freshman year, and won the men’s javelin gold medal at the Big 12 Conference.
“A big part of the success of football for me is the connection of the team, team bonding, and honestly, just as important as it is to be connected with the team, it’s equally important to be connected with the community,” Kuznof said. “The opportunity for the players to connect with some people from the community, like myself, is going to happen here while they’re out here fishing and having a good time. It’s a good opportunity.”
“We can’t just be a family on the field or in the weight room. We have to be family friends outside of it. Having a bond outside of football makes everything feel more natural on the field.”
SHAWN HOLMES, Mainland senior linebacker
Mainland athetic director Terrence Anthony (center) and football coaches (from left) Arthur Westbrook, Moe Lloyd, Jerrime Bell and Alvin Mallory enjoy a day of team bonding.
Mainland defensive end Jake Fisher shows the juvenile hammerhead shark he caught before returning it back to the Halifax River.
Mainland football player Danny Sullivan (left) helps Ayden Lewis free a fish at the Port Orange Causeway Park on Wednesday, July 22.
Photos by Michele Meyers
Mainland quarterback Patrick Miller (left).
Mainland football coaches and players gathered at the Port Orange Causeway Park for a day of bonding.
Don't Gamble With Your Family's Peace of Mind
Get Your Chips in a Row.
Pre-planning is for Everyone
TRIBUTES
Arvid Olson
January 13, 1944 - July 14, 2026
Arvid passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026 in Palm Coast with his wife, Pat, by his side. Arvid was born in Pasadena, CA and was the son of the late Chester Olson and Mabel Park Olson. His two siblings, Allene Olson and Gilbert Olson, predeceased him.
Upon returning stateside they spent three years in Carmel, CA while stationed at Ft. Ord. They loved this assignment and had many close friends visit.
From there Arvid attended the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta and became a board certified Endodontist.
Arvid graduated from San Ramon High School in Danville, CA in 1961 and attended California State College in Hayward, CA and from there attended the University of Pacific Dental School in San Francisco where he graduated in 1969.
Arvid practiced General Dentistry in El Cerrito, CA and during this time met and married Pat Wakeman. They spent 51 wonderful years together.
Arvid loved his country and traveling which led him to rejoin the Army in 1980 where he and Pat were stationed in Mainz, Germany for three years. Their favorite country was France. Many of Arvid’s friends thought he had a second home there!
Philip W. Tucker
Arvid and Pat moved to Palm Coast in 1995 and Arvid became very active as a member of Trinity Presbyterian Church and was a deacon for three years. Arvid was also a member of the Palm Coast Cruisers, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the Elks Club and Kiwanis Club where he was President from 2022 to 2023.
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Philip W. Tucker of Palm Coast, FL passed away in his home on July 13, 2026, surrounded by family members at his bedside. Present were his daughters Anne Cress-Tucker of Indianapolis, IN and Jennifer Leopold of Palm City, FL; sons Jeff Tucker of Ludington, MI and Greg Tucker and his wife Amy of Ashville, NC. His “favorite child” Shadow and cat Spooky were also nearby in the home. He joined his eldest son Chris Tucker upon passing.
Phil died the way he lived – doing everything fast, efficiently and with a purpose, thinking of others first and making as little trouble as he could. His diagnosis to death was only 16 days, which he filled with friends and family. He kept asking what day it was and finally let go on his long-time partner Denise’s birthday.
Phil was a master storyteller and had an incredible memory for detail. He told stories to his entourage of visitors up until the point he could no longer talk. Then he listened as his children told his stories for him, which we will continue to do.
Shotgun shooting was Phil’s passion. He bought his first Winchester Model 42 when he was twelve years old, and started registered skeet shooting in 1973. Phil was one of the last registered skeet shooters using pump guns exclusively, which adds an extra level of complexity. He loved his Winchester Model 42’s and 12’s, “the perfect repeater”. He was the President of the Izaak Walton Club in Southern Indiana starting in 1980 and was instrumental in saving that club in 1988 when their land lease was cancelled. He then shot at Crooked Creek Gun Club in Indianapolis. He obtained many awards for service within the shotgun shooting community and was a lifetime member of the NRA and the National Skeet Shooting Association. When Phil moved to Florida, his shooting and service reputation preceded him. He enjoyed shooting for fun with his many friends at Flagler County Gun Club and volunteered to help whenever he could in his younger years. Despite the heat, he shot his final round of Trap at Flagler Gun Club on America’s 250th birthday.
Phil was extremely proud that he was the first person to
Arvid loved a challenge and in 1999 opened up a Travel Agency in Palm Coast. Arvid and Pat escorted many groups for a number of years visiting the Caribbean and Europe. His love of photography inspired him to produce very professional DVD’s which included a number of specially selected music related to the island or country visited. These memento DVD’s were given out to all members of Arvid’s personally guided group. Together Arvid and Pat went on over 160 cruises.
August 8, 1941 - July 13, 2026
have his membership accepted at the St. Augustine Rod & Gun Club without a sponsor. After two years, he became the Club President at St. Augustine, and soon after became the Manager. In this role he described himself as “a benevolent dictator”.
He absolutely loved St. Augustine Gun Club and all the people in it. He had told his children many times that he wanted to manage a gun club in his retirement. It was a position he enjoyed so much he held it for 24 years, retiring just months before his passing, despite having undiagnosed stage 4 pancreatic cancer that had spread to his liver and adrenal gland. He was tough! But as he always said, “Gettin’ old ain’t for sissies!”
Phil had a great childhood “growing up like Tom Sawyer” in his hometown of Wever, Iowa, midway between Burlington and Fort Madison, near the Mississippi River. Always a diligent worker, Phil had various jobs as a kid; paper route, detasseling corn, various farm work, poultry house...
Phil attended a two-room schoolhouse in Wever, then Fort Madison High School, and was the first in his family to graduate college. He paid his own way through from his childhood savings and obtained a Civil Engineering degree from Iowa State University in 1963.
Phil contributed to several important engineering jobs over the years, starting out with Dravo Construction Division. He worked on the I-70 bridge over the Mississippi River in St. Louis; the Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan East Center Pier Foundation; Lock and Dam in Fort Smith Arkansas; Interstate 280 bridge in Davenport, Iowa; and others, settling his family in Evansville, IN when he came to work on the Newburgh, IN Dam. Phil then managed Baker Inc. Construction from 1975-1988. He worked in Indianapolis for Circle B Construction from 1988-1992. Finally, Phil transferred to Palm Coast, Florida, with EI Brown Architects to work on local schools, including Buddy Taylor Middle School, Bunnell Elementary, and an addition to Old Kings Elementary School. Phil later became the Inspector for the Daytona Beach Community College Vocational School. His final “building project” was building the first skeet field at
For those who knew Arvid he was known for his unwavering faith, strength, kindness and a deep love for God and family. Arvid will be remembered as a kind and gentle soul who was always willing to contribute both his time and support. A celebration of life ceremony will be held at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Palm Coast on Saturday October 3, 2026 at 11 am.
the then-new Flagler County Gun Club. Phil was extremely proud that all his children and grandchildren graduated from college, several with advanced degrees. He felt education was like climbing a ladder – the higher you wanted to be in life meant the higher wrung you needed to step off at. He learned this partially from watching his father struggle through life with only an eighth-grade education. His children and others learned the value of hard work and a good education from Phil. Phil was preceded in death by his son Chris Tucker, long-time partner Denise Hochstadt, parents Sammie Tucker and Julia (Niggemeyer) Tucker, and his sister Audrey Seyb. He is survived by his children Anne Cress-Tucker (Tina), Jeff Tucker (Michelle), Jennifer Leopold (Jeff), Greg Tucker (Amy), their mother Patricia Tucker, daughterin-law Kathy Thompson, as well as seven grandchildren (Madeleine, Victoria, John Philip, Joseph, Samuel, Cecelia, Elliott). He is also survived by sisters Janet Dale; Patsy Holtkamp, and her three sons, Jody, Nathan (Julie), and Ryan; Peach (Norma) Hench (husband Dale) their son Zach (Sarah); nephews Doug Seyb (partner Beth Howard), and Dennis Seyb (Liza); nieces Karen Clark, Pastor Karla Seyb-Stockton (Ed), and Pam Kuhr (Jim).
Phil gave more back to this world than he took from it and will be sorely missed. Phil loved meeting and helping his neighbors. In lieu of flowers or donations, please honor Phil by doing something nice for your neighbor and/or spreading his love of shooting sports through training and supporting new shooters. For condolences, and sharing any stories we may not have heard, please reach out to his daughter who will share with other family members. Jennifer Leopold 908-208-8569
COVE
SECTIONS 16,
SUBDIVISION LY-
AND
18 SOUTH, RANGE
EAST, VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORI-
SAID
BEING
TICULARLY. A PORTION OF SECTION 16, TOWNSHIP 18 SOUTH, RANGE 32 EAST, VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: COMMENCE AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SECTION 16, TOWNSHIP 18, SOUTH, RANGE 32 EAST, VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA, SAID POINT BEING A 4` X 4` CONCRETE MONUMENT (FOUND IN PLACE); THENCE RUN S02 DEGREES 12` 56” W 983.43 FEET, ALONG THE EAST LINE OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SAID SECTION 16 TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE S 75 DEGREES 11` 26” W 990.14 FEET; THENCE S 86 DEGREES 42` 43” W 276.62 FEET; THENCE S 31 DEGREES 23` 58” E 104.17 FEET TO THE POINT OF CURVATURE OF A CURVE CONCAVE TO THE SOUTHWEST, HAVING A RADIUS OF 239.02 FEET AND A CENTRAL ANGLE OF 37 DEGREES 18` 50”; THENCE RUN SOUTHWESTERLY ALONG THE ARC OF SAID CURVE 155.66 FEET; THENCE DEPARTING SAID CURVE, S 87 DEGREES 56` 07” E 1124.83 FEET TO A POINT ON THE EAST LINE OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SAID SECTION 16; THENCE N 02 DEGREES 12` 56” E ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID NORTHEAST 1/4, 547.93 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. SUBJECT TO AN EASEMENT FOR INGRESS, EGRESS AND UTILITIES OVER THE WESTERLY 30 FEET THEREOF AS RECORDED IN O.R.B. 3727, PAGE 3704, IN THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. ALSO SUBJECT TO BRIDAL PATH AND DRAINAGE EASEMENT OVER THE EAST 20 FEET THEREOF. ALSO SUBJECT TO A DRAINAGE AND UTILITY EASEMENT OVER THE NORTH AND SOUTH 10 FEET THEREOF. Property address: 172 Ashby Cove Lane, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
SECOND INSERTION
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA
CIVIL DIVISION: CASE NO.: 2025 14422 CICI UNION HOME MORTGAGE CORP., Plaintiff, vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHERS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST ON THE ESTATE OF DONALD STEVENS YOUNG JR AKA DONALD S YOUNG JR; JUDITH D. YOUNG; KRISTINA M. YOUNG; HEATHER A. YOUNG; JUDITH D. YOUNG, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE; UNKNOWN TENANT Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to an Order or Final Judgment entered in the above styled cause now pending in said court and as required by Florida Statute 45.031(2), LAURA E. ROTH as the Clerk of the Circuit Court for VOLUSIA County shall sell to the highest and best bidder for cash electronically at www. volusia.realforeclose.com at, 11:00 AM on the 12 day of August, 2026, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 4, WOOD HAVEN SUBDIVISION, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 26, PAGE 77, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. PROPERTY ADDRESS: 39 WOODHAVEN CIR, ORMOND BEACH, FL 32176 IF YOU ARE A PERSON CLAIMING A
RIGHT TO FUNDS REMAINING AFTER THE SALE, YOU MUST FILE A CLAIM WITH THE CLERK NO LATER THAN THE DATE THAT THE CLERK REPORTS THE FUNDS AS UNCLAIMED. IF YOU FAIL TO FILE A CLAIM, YOU WILL NOT BE ENTITLED TO ANY REMAINING FUNDS. AFTER THE FUNDS ARE REPORTED AS UNCLAIMED, ONLY THE OWNER OF RECORD AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MAY CLAIM THE SURPLUS. 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 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300 Daytona Beach, FL 32114 (386) 257-6096 Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711. Dated this 17 day of July 2026. By: /s/ Lindsay Maisonet Lindsay Maisonet, Esq. Bar Number: 93156 Submitted by: De Cubas & Lewis, P.A. PO Box 5026 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33310 Telephone: (954) 453-0365 Facsimile: (954) 77 1-6052 Toll Free: 1-800-441-2438 DESIGNATED PRIMARY E-MAIL FOR SERVICE PURSUANT TO FLA. R. JUD. ADMIN 2.516 eservice@decubaslewis.com 25-05093 July 23, 30, 2026 26-00517I
PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2026 12036 PRDL Division 10 IN RE: ESTATE OF GERRY LANMAN AFRICA Deceased. The administration of the estate of Gerry Lanman Africa, deceased, whose date of death was May 30, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 101 North Alabama Avenue, DeLand, Florida 32724. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is July 23, 2026.
Personal Representative: Deborah A. Lanman 364 Gleneagles Drive
Smyrna Beach, Florida 32168 Attorney for Personal Representative: Thomas J. Upchurch, Esquire E-mail Addresses: service@upchurchlaw.com, clutes@upchurchlaw.com
Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens, must file a claim before the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed. 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, 125 E. ORANGE AVE., STE. 300, DAYTONA BEACH, FL 32114, (386) 2576096. HEARING OR VOICE IMPAIRED, PLEASE CALL 711. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Stephen G. Hurley PADGETT LAW GROUP
STEVEN G. HURLEY, ESQ. Florida Bar # 99802 6267 Old Water Oak Road, Suite 203 Tallahassee, FL 32312 (850) 422-2520 (telephone) (850) 422-2567 (facsimile)
attorney@padgettlawgroup.com
Attorney for Plaintiff Pursuant to the Fla. R. Jud. Admin. 2.516, the above signed counsel for Plaintiff designates attorney@padgettlawgroup.com as its primary e-mail address for service, in the above styled matter, of all pleadings and documents required to be served on the parties.
TDP File No. 25-009450-1 July 23, 30, 2026 26-00520I
SECOND INSERTION
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2026 11997 PRDL Division: Probate IN RE: ESTATE OF CHASE ANTHONY RIVERA, a/k/a CHASE A. RIVERA, Deceased. The administration of the estate of Chase Anthony Rivera, deceased, whose date of death was March 19, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Volusia County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is P.O. Box 6043, DeLand, FL 32721. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is July 23, 2026.
Personal Representative: /s/ Jessica Angel Picallo Jessica Angel Picallo 465 Bryant St. Ormond Beach, FL 32174
Attorney for Personal Representative: /s/ Lowell S. Schoenfeld Lowell S. Schoenfeld
Attorney for Personal Representative Florida Bar Number: 980099
SCHOENFELD KYLE & ASSOCIATES LLP 1380 Royal Palm Square Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33919 Telephone: (239) 936-7200
Fax: (239) 936-7997
E-Mail: lowells@trustska.com
Secondary E-Mail: bethm@trustska.com July 23, 30, 2026 26-00523I
SECOND INSERTION NOTICE OF ACTIONCONSTRUCTIVE SERVICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 2026 12364 CIDL U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, vs. THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHERS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF AUSTIN M. HOWARD A/K/A AUSTIN HOWARD, DECEASED. et. al. Defendant(s), TO: THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHERS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF AUSTIN M. HOWARD A/K/A AUSTIN HOWARD, DECEASED, whose residence is unknown if he/she/they be living; and if he/she/they be dead, the unknown defendants who may be spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, assignees, lienors, creditors, trustees, and all parties claiming an interest by, through, under or against the Defendants, who are not known to be dead or alive, and all parties having or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property described in the mortgage being foreclosed herein. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a mortgage on the following property: LOT 37, 38 AND 39, BLOCK 10, DAYTONA PARK ESTATES SECTION NO. F, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 23, PAGE 101, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on counsel for Plaintiff, whose address is 6409 Congress Ave., Suite 100, Boca Raton, Florida 33487 on or before August 17, 2026 /(30 days from Date of First Publication of this Notice) and file the original with the clerk of this court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition filed herein.
THIS NOTICE SHALL BE PUBLISHED ONCE A WEEK FOR TWO (2) CONSECUTIVE WEEKS. WITNESS my hand and the seal of this Court at Volusia County, Florida, this 17 day of July, 2026.
LAURA E ROTH
CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT (SEAL) BY: /s/ Jennifer Vazquez DEPUTY CLERK ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, AND SCHNEID, PL ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFF 6409 Congress Ave., Suite 100 Boca Raton, FL 33487 PRIMARY EMAIL: flmail@raslg.com 26-419532 July 23, 30, 2026
26-00521I
SECOND INSERTION SUNGATE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE ADOPTION OF THE FISCAL
who
Manager’s Office.
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 13327 CICI U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, vs. BRENDA MARIE YOUNG AKA BRENDA M. YOUNG, et al. Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated June 12, 2026, and entered in 2025 13327 CICI of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH Judicial Circuit in and for Volusia County, Florida, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION is the Plaintiff and BRENDA MARIE YOUNG A/K/A BRENDA M. YOUNG; FLORIDA HOUSING FINANCE CORPORATION; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ACTING ON BEHALF OF THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; FIFTH THIRD BANK, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER WITH DIVIDEND SOLAR FINANCE LLC 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 August 12, 2026, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 2, “CEDAR HIGHLAND” UNIT NO. 1, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 29, PAGE 48, OF THE CURRENT PUBLIC RECORDS OF
SECOND INSERTION NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF FLORIDA IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 2026 10562 CIDL SERVIS ONE, INC. DBA BSI FINANCIAL SERVICES, Plaintiff, vs. TOLSTOY LLC, et al., Defendant. To: TOLSTOY LLC 3216 S DORCHESTER DR, DELTONA, FL 32738 LAST KNOWN ADDRESS STATED, CURRENT RESIDENCE UNKNOWN YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose Mortgage covering the following real and personal property described as follows, to-wit: LOT 3, BLOCK 765, DELTONA LAKES UNIT THIRTY-TWO, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 27, PAGES 101 THROUGH 118, INCLUSIVE, PUBLIC RECORDS OF VOLU-
SIA COUNTY, FLORIDA. has been filed against you and you are required to file a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Elsa Camacho, Esq., McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLP, 225 East Robinson Street, Suite 155, Orlando, FL 32801 and file the original with the Clerk of the above- styled Court on or before August 12, 2026 or 30 days from the first publication, otherwise a Judgment may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint. WITNESS my hand and seal of said Court on the 13 day of July, 2026. LAURA E. ROTH, ESQ. CLERK OF COURT OF VOLUSIA COUNTY As Clerk of the Court (SEAL) BY: /s/ Jennifer Vazquez Deputy Clerk MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLP 225 East Robinson Street, Suite 155, Orlando, FL 32801 Phone: (407) 674-1850 Fax: (321) 248-0420 Email: kimberlee.masters@mccalla.com 25-14969FL July 23, 30, 2026 26-00519I
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO. 2025 12753 CIDL FINANCE OF AMERICA REVERSE LLC, Plaintiff, vs. FOSTER ALLEN DUZAN,
(386) 492-3871 Primary Email: service@upchurchlaw.com Secondary Email: clutes@upchurchlaw.com July 23, 30, 2026 26-00526I
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
Maple, Walnut, Mahogany 40 bf of Various Woods $200.00 (386) 447-0399 Palm Coast
WeatherTech Front/Rear Grey Floor mats. Fits All Chevy Equinox $125 631-525-1813
Charmglow Gas Grill, side burner, storage cabinet, full propane tank included, cover, $120. 386-585-4291
Wrought Iron Glass top Rectangle Coffee Table $200 OBO 386-437-7058
42” Round Solid Wood Glass Top Dining Room Table with 4 Chairs $200 Firm 386-437-7058
Cleaning Services
