Palm Coast Observer 06-19-25

PALM COAST

Beach funding solution eludes county

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Construction set to begin on new Flagler Beach pier

The project is scheduled to be completed in December 2026.

The clock has started on the $14.1 million Flagler Beach pier replacement project. But it might be days before actual construction begins, City Manager Dale Martin said at a public information meeting Wednesday, June 11, at Santa Maria del Mar Catholic Church.

“The city issued the notice to proceed today,” Martin said. “Now we have to work with (the Florida Department of Transportation) for final coordination.”

Traffic, parking and pedestrian crosswalks with be diverted during construction on State Road A1A from South Fifth Street north to South Third Street to accommodate a 400-foot work set-up zone. The northbound traffic lane in that area will be closed. Northbound traffic will be shifted to the current southbound lane with southbound traffic shifting to the parallel parking area on the west side of the road.

A temporary crosswalk to the beach will be set up on the corner of South Sixth Street with the next crosswalk at South Third Street in front of the pier. The project is scheduled to be complete in December 2026, Martin said. Originally, the city had hoped to complete the pier by next year’s July 4th festivities. The pier has been closed since

September 2022 when Hurricane

Ian tore off a chunk. But since the pier originally opened in 1928, it has withstood many storms.

“The pier has been very resilient, relatively speaking, for a deck elevation of plus-18 feet, which is about the elevation of A1A in that area,” said Gabe Perdomo, project manager for the pier’s designer, Moffat & Nichol.

“The next pier is not going to be built with timber,” he said. “It is going to be built with concrete piles, concrete bent caps and concrete stringers, so the skeleton structure of this pier is going to be far more robust, far more resilient than the timber design that has withstood over the course of the last 100 years.”

The first 100 feet of the original pier will remain. An ADA-compliant ramp will rise 10 feet with a 5% slope connecting to the new deck.

The 28-foot elevation is similar to other recently constructed piers in Florida including the nearby Jacksonville Beach pier, which has a height of 27.5 feet.

The T-head at the end of the pier will be restored at 20 feet by 32 feet. There will be a new firewater system that meets codes, potable water with three fish-cleaning stations, benches, turtle lighting and artistic shade structures that “capture the image of a pelican,” Perdomo said.

The first step in the construction will be building a temporary trestle, or work bridge, needed to support the cranes and other equipment to be used in demolition and construction, said Justin McKay, proj-

ect manager for contractor Vecellio & Grogan.

The construction will be noisy, McKay said, but the noise will decrease as construction progresses out into the water.

In addition to the design and construction firms, Jason Cronk, of civil engineering firm England Thims & Miller will serve as project administrator, monitoring construction activities and ensuring the pier is built to plan and specifications. Cronk will report to Flagler Beach Project Manager Chris Novak.

The separate beach walk project won’t begin for six to eight months at the earliest, Martin said, because FEMA, which is funding the majority of the pier project, wants to make

sure the two projects are financially separated with no shared labor or equipment.

The county is providing $750,000 of the first phase of the beach walk project, which will encompass the renovation of the structures under the pier’s iconic A-frame entrance including bathrooms, the radio station and the space housing the bait shop.

The city will fund phase two of beach walk project — constructing a new promenade boardwalk south of the pier. Updates on the pier project will appear regularly on Flagler Beach’s website, cityofflaglerbeach.com and the city’s Facebook page, Martin said.

The ITMS Global Issues team: Mary Grace Seward, Dempsey Manhart, Willa Ames, Wesley Kopach, Diana Kolodiy. Courtesy photo

Palm Coast votes to raise impact fees by $5,800

‘We are course correcting,’ Pontieri said.

SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The Palm Coast City Council has approved its new impact fees, with the overall cost for new single-family homes increasing by $5,881.

Though the rates are increasing significantly, the Parks and Recreation rates were reduced from an originally proposed increase of 98% and transportation rates — which vary depending on the type of development — were reduced from a proposed 137% increase for single family residential homes. Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri said the council has worked hard to analyze the effect on Palm Coast’s building community and avoid “shocking the system.”

“We are course correcting in what we are doing here today,” Pontieri said. “We’ve been fair, we’ve been calculated, we’ve been very reasonable in our efforts to ensure growth pays for itself while, at the same time, not outpricing our essential workers and young professionals.”

The city has been able to increase the rates so extensively because of its extraordinary circumstances of extreme growth rate and the “dramatic” increase of inflation rates in the last six years, according to Jonathan Paul, the transportation impact fee presenter from NUE Concepts.

Both the parks and recreation and fire service impact fees, which were under the final review by the council before being adopted, were unanimously approved.

The transportation impact fees still face one more vote before the new rates are

adopted. The council made multiple changes to how these rates were calculated, as the original study suggested increasing the rates 137% for single family homes.

Since the original presentation in May, the council has removed state road from the calculation, with the exception of State Road 100 from Belle Terre Boulevard to Old Kings Road, assumed an anticipated $30 million in state or federal funding — which lowers the impact fee rate — and changed the residential calculation to be based on the home’s square footage.

Now residential homes will be based on the home’s size: a 1,000-square-foot home would pay $3,770 in transportation impact fees while a 2,000-square-foot home will pay $7,540. The council went this route to try to mitigate the impact on first-time home buyers and essential personnel like teachers and first responders.

“If you build a smaller home, you pay a smaller fee,” Paul said. “If you build a larger home, you pay a larger fee.”

Up until the June 17 meeting, the study also included a reduced fee for Palm Coast’s vested ITT lots, per the direction of the 2018 City Council, who last updated the rates. Paul said the reasoning was because the existing infrastructure reduced the number of generated trips. The reduced rate shaved almost $2,000 off the impact fee for the ITT homes of 2,000 square feet.

But this council was “flabbergasted,” as Pontieri said. The council, she said, had been wracking their brains for way to reduce the impact rates and had been told they could not “cherry pick” the mechanisms used.

“We have been killing ourselves up here trying to bal -

HOMEBUILDERS: THESE ARE NOT ‘EXTRAORDINARY CIRCUMSTANCES’

The Flagler Home Builder’s Association has launched a website outlining its concerns on the “extraordinary circumstances” increase to impact fees.

The webpage — www.flaglerhba.com/fairfees — states the extraordinary circumstances outlined in the city’s fee studies are “unjustified.”

“The Flagler HBA supports increasing impact fees up to the legal 50% limit to fund parks, fire, and transportation,” the website states, “but challenges the city’s unsupported claim of “extraordinary circumstances” used to exceed that cap.”

Typically, Florida state law prohibits municipalities from increasing impact fees by more than 50% of the current rate. Any increase must also be phased in over a two- to four-year period and the fees can not be increased but once every four years.

The FHBA website says a 2020 study projected Palm Coast would have a population of over 110,000 by 2025. The city’s population this year is 107,000.

The website also argues that the construction cost spikes due to inflation were temporary and have since stabilized.

ance interests between making housing affordable for our workforce,” Pontieri said.

Ultimately, the council removed the reduced rate for the ITT lots, which will now be charged the same rate as other residential homes, based on the home’s size.

“It is still an impact,” Mayor Mike Norris said of the homes.

Though removing the rate does not change the calculations, it will change how much the city could anticipate from transportation impact fees from residential housing.

Flagler Home Builder Association’s Executive Officer Annamaria Long said the change to the ITT lots would create “a significant dollar” amount over time. Long has said repeatedly in council meetings that there are no extraordinary circumstances.

While inflation for construction costs has gone up, she argued, it by itself is not an extraordinary circum -

stance. She also argues that population is not a factor that can be considered because the 2018 studies anticipated the growth rate to be as it is, even though Palm Coast has not met the projected growth rate from 2018.

The law requires extraordinary circumstances be “severe, unforeseen and local,” she said.

“We planned for higher growth than occurred and we’re now planning for lesser growth than we did previously,” she said.

Paul disagreed with Long’s statements.

“By all metrics that we’ve looked at population growth, growth is growing quite dramatically in Palm Coast,” Paul said. Of inflation, he said, “For a fact, and it’s not disputable, inflation increased dramatically between 2018 and where we are today.”

Email letters to brent@ observerlocalnews.com.

Judge: Ormond must pay River Bend taxes

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

Seven years after the City of Ormond Beach sued the Volusia County Property Appraiser over $240,000 in unpaid taxes concerning the now-shuttered River Bend Golf Course, a judge has ruled that the city is responsible for paying taxes on the property.

Circuit Judge Kathryn Weston issued a partial summary judgment on the litigation on June 16, stating that the city is the proper taxpayer and that the city and the property appraiser must coordinate an evidentiary hearing at which the court will determine how much the city owes.

According to the Volusia County Property Appraiser’s website, the amount due is $377,466.69 for 2013 through 2020. No taxes were assessed for 2021-2024, following the golf course’s closure in 2020.

The city filed its initial complaint in June 2019, arguing that the unpaid taxes — calculated at $240,848 at the time — were the responsibility of the golf course’s lessee. The taxes owed had accumulated since 2013, and the city stated this occurred without their knowledge.

That is, until 2018, when the city submitted an ECHO grant application to the county and was denied due to the outstanding ad valorem taxes. While the golf course was privately operated at the time, it is owned by the city.

According to the court’s judgment, the city first entered into a lease agreement in 1988 for the construction and operation of a public golf course. This lease required River Bend Investment Group Inc. to pay all ad valorem taxes.

Then, after a lawsuit in 1994, the property was declared tax exempt. Fifteen years later, a new lease was signed.

In 2013, that exemption was removed after being deemed unconstitutional, but the city was not notified until 2019 when it received a letter by email in 2019 from the Volusia County Property Appraiser. The city argued that, because Property Appraiser Larry Bartlett later testified that the letter was an invitation to engage in mediation for the ongoing lawsuit, this didn’t constitute a valid legal notice of the removal of the ad valorem exemption. However, the court found the notification adhered to state law. The judgment states: “the court finds that the property was not exempt from ad valorem taxation while leased to a private entity,” citing a provision in the Florida Constitution that states “all property owned by a municipality and used exclusively by it for municipal or public purposes shall be exempt from taxation.”

The court found that the lease signed in 2009 “divested Ormond Beach of exclusive use and control of the property” and that the operation of a for-profit golf course is not a “public purpose,” and therefore not entitled to a tax exemption.

“This court cannot grant an impermissible exemption which the Florida Supreme Court held could not be granted by itself or the Florida Legislature,” the judgment states.

The city and Volusia County both declined to comment because the case is still in litigation.

No consensus

Flagler County Commission remains undecided on how to fund beach management.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING

EDITOR

Make budget cuts. Increase property taxes. Or, establish a new revenue stream — one that may or may not be a halfcent sales tax?

The Flagler County Commission discussed these options to fund a beach management plan during a fourhour workshop on Monday, June 16. Officials heard presentations from county staff and coastal engineers, including the consultants who worked on the county’s beach management study and ongoing nourishment projects.

The workshop was held after the board asked staff earlier this month to present them with options to fund a beach management plan that includes all 18 miles of coastline, but does not include a half-cent sales tax, as three out of the five commissioners have voiced opposition to it. For the half-cent sales tax to pass, the board needs a supermajority vote of 4-1.

The county is estimating the initial construction cost of the beach management plan at $120 million, and management at $72.1 million.

Taking into account Tourist Development Tax dollars, the utilization of special taxing districts (known as Municipal Service Benefit Units, or MSBUs), property tax dollars and grants, County Administrator Heidi Petito said the

As Flagler County officials have yet to find a solution to funding a beach management plan, a citizen grassroots effort has emerged.

Jennifer Herold, a resident of the Hammock, has launched an initiative called Protect Flagler’s Beaches. The initiative calls for a holistic government approach with involvement from elected officials at the local, state and federal level to help find funding to conduct beach renourishment on all 18 miles of the county’s coastline.

“We’ve just been seeing a lot of this indecision locally with our elected officials,” Herold said. “We just decided to go from there and see if we could get more people involved, raise a little bit more awareness and see f we could maybe get some other players in just to help

county is facing a $17.5 million shortfall for the initial construction cost — needed in 2-3 years to remain on track — and a $10 million shortfall annually for six years for maintenance. That equates to: $15.8 million needed in 2026 and 2027 each; $15.9 million needed in 2028; and $10 million needed in 2029, 2030 and 2031 each.

“There are a lot of future variables, such as storm events, sea level rise, shifting state or federal priorities,” Petito said. “We don’t know what’s going to happen with FEMA at the federal level ... It does make it a challenge, because I think it makes that long-term plan a little bit more complex, but we do remain committed to seeking additional grants leveraging tourist-generated revenues.”

FUNDING OPTIONS

If the commission opts to fund the beach management plan using property tax dollars, without raising them — and the cost is to be absorbed by all of the operating budgets of the county’s constitutional officers, including the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office — the annual budgets would need to be reduced by 10%.

If the cost is to be absorbed only by the county’s operating budget, the annual budgets would need to be cut by 20%.

“That would be about a 40% reduction in personnel costs,” Petito said.

us get toward a final goal here.”

Earlier this month, the Flagler County Commission asked county staff to nix the proposed half-cent sales tax push and instead bring them an alternate funding plan to find, or generate, $12 million in recurring costs to maintain the beach. A sales tax needs a supermajority vote of 4-1, and the initiative has yet to reach that level of support on the commission.

“We have been working on the funding plan for two years,” County Administrator Heidi Petito said in a statement to the Observer

“It does include state and federal partnerships, in the initial construction, emergency work and ongoing.

Even with state and federal dollars, there needs to be local dollars included, or these grants won’t be available

The county is also facing a $2.9 million budget cap for its upcoming fiscal year.

TDC funds can only contribute $880,000 a year, but using the maximum funds would have “severe consequences” to the county’s tourist development program, Petito said. If the county uses its current sales tax, then no funding would be available for roads and stormwater projects.

Currently, Petito said the county receives $4.7 million from its local option sales tax. Using these funds for beach management would mean abandoning the county’s strategic plan, failing to establish a pavement management plan, as well as not having a local match for Florida Department of Transportation roadway grants, Petito said. The county may also lose grant funding.

The commission can also choose to raise property taxes to fund beach management or increase its proposed MSBU amount from the proposed $160 per unit.

HALF-CENT SALES TAX

Commissioner Kim Carney said she didn’t see anything stating that the county needed to have a “100% plan in place” to call it a beach management funding plan.

“Nature is going to determine what happens on this ... coastline,” Carney said. “To say that we have to have $17 million in one of these funds

moving forward.”

Herold said she understands that there have been “a lot of good attempts at trying to get things done locally.” But that maybe, it’ll need to take leadership from state representatives, and perhaps the governor, to fund the beach long term.

“Residents of the beaches are not opposed to necessarily a tax increase, but we’d like to see that every other option has been exhausted,” Herold said.

Ideally, she said, she’d like to see dollars from the state and federal level help fund the plan.

Protect Flagler’s Beaches is advocating for a roundtable meeting where all elected officials can propose solutions and discuss current funds.

“Maybe there’s something we’re not thinking of, but so

by the end of 2025 or 2026

... If we can come up with the strategy that we need to get to funding, where does it say that we have to fund at a 100%?”

She suggested the county return to the sources of funding it already has and enter into an interlocal agreement with the cities of Flagler Beach, Beverly Beach and Marineland for an MSBU, and have that in place for fiscal years 2026-2027 and beyond.

“All of our municipalities should be encouraged to generate their own funding source — the local fees and that could be used to offset the MSBUs,” Carney said, adding that the generated dollars could also act as more funding.

Commission Chair Andy Dance said the county doesn’t want to be in a position where it has to make drastic last minute decisions to find match dollars for available grants, which he said was the most critical component of obtaining that funding.

He brought up the half-cent sales tax.

“I know we’re looking at other funding options separate from the half-penny, but you can manipulate the halfpenny to shorter time frames,” Dance said. “There’s nothing that says this has to be a 20-year timeline.”

Commissioner Pam Richardson said that three months ago, she asked when a halfcent sales tax could sunset —

far, what we’ve done isn’t working,” Herold said. She started the initiative with her husband, but has since gotten support from other locals.

Flagler County is the only coastal county in the state without a funded beach management plan. That’s difficult to see, Herold said, as the county relies on its beaches as an economic driver and as its first line of defense during storms.

“We’re lagging behind everybody else, so I think that’s why we’re hoping, whether it’s new leadership or new voices coming to the table, will help get us out of tis circle that we’re in we can’t seem to get out of,” she said. “I do think all of the residents in the county, and really in the district, we deserve clear answers — transparency.”

ing agreed.

“I think the half-cent sales tax would be the least painful and the fairest method,” said Dennis Clark, representing Scenic A1A Pride. But others weren’t convinced. Citizen Ron Long said he came to the meeting with hopes that there would be new ideas and new figures discussed.

“But it looks like we got the same stuff again — different font, little bit different layout, but again, we’re being told this half cent tax is the only way to go,” Long said. “... This isn’t going to be done in 10 years. This half-cent tax will go on forever and ever and ever. No tax has ever been taken back on.”

‘A DEFENSIBLE PLAN’

In regards to an alternate plan, county administration was placed in a tough position to come up with one, Dance said.

“Ultimately, there’s got to be a plan — a defensible plan — that we come up with, no matter how we fund it, in order to alleviate the concerns of our state and federal funding partners,” he said. Their partners will see right through a non-viable funding plan, he added.

and the answer she was given was 30 years.

“And you were adamant about it,” she said. “Today, you’re not adamant about it. I’m not questioning your expertise or your talent, but I’m concerned about what facts are factual and what’s not, because it can’t go both ways. I wanted a short-term element, and now that was nixed months ago, and this is why we’re going in a circle, folks.”

Dance said a month ago, the commission spoke about a shorter timeline on a halfcent sales tax. The sales tax for the schools is up for renewal every 10 years, he said, citing an example.

“They are variable,” he said.

PUBLIC INPUT

Commissioner Leann Pennington redirected the conversation away from a halfcent sales tax, mentioning the lack of consensus, and said that any plan chosen by the board will likely change as more elements come together in the future.

The board lacked numbers showing how the budget would be affected if they chose to dedicate all of the local option sales tax to the beach, as well as what raising the MSBU would look like, Pennington said.

Dance said that was an “impossible ask” because the board never reached a consensus on what it wanted to do.

“It would have helped to have seen some preliminary numbers based on the options,” Pennington said.

Increasing the MSBUs by $30 per unit — which would need interlocal agreements with the coastal cities to include residences outside of the unincorporated area — would generate almost $2 million, Petito said.

With that in mind, Pennington agreed with Carney: The county should attempt to enter into interlocal agreements with the coastal cities.

But are MSBUs fair? Former Flagler County Tax Collector Suzanne Johnston said they weren’t.

A commercial unit as big as Publix, a condo and a 9,000-square-foot home would all pay the same.

“Oceanside restaurant would pay less than my 1,100-square-foot condo on the west side of A1A,” Johnston said. “That’s not fair.”

A sales tax, she said, gives residents a choice on how much they pay. Other speakers at the meet-

“We’re already trying to make hay with a $3 million deficit for this budget,” Dance said. “Lord help us if you’re trying to make me go negotiate with the sheriff on a 10% budget cut, or any of the other constitutional [officers].”

The only solid answer, Commissioner Greg Hansen said, is to create a new stream of money: A half-cent sales tax, or raising property taxes, because doing anything other than that is “irresponsible,” he said.

“Because we’re cutting services to the county and we’re cutting — just eviscerating — our strategic plan and eviscerating our stormwater plan that we’ve put in place to serve the taxpayer and fix problems that we’ve got to fix,” Hansen said. “That has to keep going. Those plans have to keep going, or we’re not doing our job for the county.”

Carney said the problem is that the media, and the general public, believe the half-cent sales tax is the only funding source.

“I believe this is fluid,” she said. “I believe that the state will back us if we look structured, if we look well-thought-out and wellplanned, and if we have momentum going forward. I do not believe that we need $20 million in the bank by 2026 in order for the state to talk to Flagler County.” She also suggested, as she has in the past, to use funds from the county’s Environmentally Sensitive Lands program in the future, once it sunsets.

But Dance said that was not the board’s consensus — he wants to see the program renewed via voter referendum.

So how will the county fund the beach? That remains to be determined.

“I don’t know that we’ve come up with additional clarification on staff to be able to come up with a non half-penny funding formula,” Dance said. He asked for staff to send commissioners a working spreadsheet that will allow them to reallocate funds on the budget toward the beach to envision different scenarios.

The takeaway from the workshop, he said, is that Flagler County does need a viable funding plan for its state and federal partners.

“We can’t put something together on hopes and wishes,” he said. “So we have to back it up and be able to present that in order to get those additional grants and opportunities that are out there, and I know we’re working on a lot of it.”

An aerial view of A1A and the Atlantic coastline in Flagler Beach. Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock/RK

Bunnell to consider rezoning 1,800 acres to industrial

Rather than the stereotypical smokestacks, the industrial land could bring ‘high-end jobs,’ but will also be near homes, causing some controversy.

SIERRA WILLIAMS

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The Bunnell City Commission is preparing to review an application that would rezone an 1,800-acre property from agricultural to industrial, a project that has caused controversy among local residents.

The land is east of Old Haw Creek Road, north of County Road 304 and the west of U.S. 1. The planning board approved the application at its May 6 meeting in a 3-1 vote, with member Lynn Lafferty, one of the landowners, recusing herself because of the conflict of interest.

The applicant is looking to rezone the land into two types: 1,383 acres of heavy industrial and 459 acres of agriculture commercial industrial near the southwestern residents. The City Commission will review the application at its June 23 meeting.

One of the main issues residents were concerned with at the planning board meeting is that the applicant’s team has not stated what is intended for the property. Bunnell Community Development Director Joe Parsons said the project has no proposed uses currently.

“There’s no plan at the moment,” Parsons said. “But it’s not a requirement to say what you’re doing.”

Even the developments that have presented plans alongside their rezoning requests — such as the equally controversial Haw Creek Reserve, which planned for 8,000 residential units — are still able to change those plans after the fact, Parsons said, so long as it falls under the allotted land use.

But as far as he knows about the owners, Parsons said, “Their intention is to keep the property. They have no intention of selling. They’re not locked into any agreement that says they can never sell, but that’s what their verbal intentions have been to us.”

Though the property is in Bunnell, it abuts the properties of Palm Coast’s K-Section and unincorporated Flagler County residents, too, on C.R. 304. Some Flagler County residents even showed up at the Flagler County Commission meeting on June 16 to speak out about the zoning and concerns about the heavy industrial uses so close to residents.

Deputy County Attorney Sean Moylan, who was at the planning board meeting, said the property won’t be allowed to have large amounts of hazardous chemicals.

“They’re not going to have a fuel depot,” Moylan said. “This is not Belvedere.”

Parsons reiterated the same: “Belvedere is not associated with this rezoning whatsoever,” he said.

Part of the issue, he said, is what some residents think of in terms of the word “industrial”: visions of smokestacks billowing toxic fumes and pipes oozing slime into creeks.

But in reality, Parsons said, that’s not what this project is.

“What we’re looking at is highend jobs,” he said. “Possibly for building components for SpaceX or Blue Origin. Or maybe it’s an Amazon distribution center or a Walmart distribution center. I think we’re

“They’re

not going to have a fuel depot. This is not Belvedere.”

SEAN MOYLAN, Flagler County deputy attorneey

looking at something that is less ‘waste’ and more ‘opportunity.’”

When asked about residents concerned there will be an industrial site next to where their kids live and play,

Parsons said that is a valid concern.

But on the flip side of that argument, he said, the location of the site is surrounded by parts of Florida’s strategic intermodal systems: the railroad, U.S. 1 and C.R. 304.

“Location wise, this is where it should go,” he said. “Is that where the houses should have gone? Maybe not.”

But the houses are there, and so the city will be looking to make sure any development is cohesive as it goes in, like possibly requiring larger buffers.

“We all need to play well together and make sure it is cohesive,” Parsons said.

The fact of the matter is the development could bring in a muchneeded supply of tax revenue and jobs for Bunnell, and Flagler County.

Parsons said the city brings in under $6 million in ad valorem taxes and utilities as its operating budget.

Things like repaving the city roads cost significantly more. Just repaving the 24 miles of road Bunnell needs to repave would cost $1 million per mile to repave, he said, while the city’s road improvement budget of $500,000 is enough to cover the potholes.

“We can’t keep the status quo,” Parsons said. “We have to bring in development.”

BEST ADVICE I EVER GOT

‘Be willing to walk through the doors God is opening for you.’

Erick Palacios has been in the wealth management business for about 10 years, including the past two running his own business, Plan to Prosper Wealth Management. He is currently the chairman of the Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce.

How did he get here? What’s the best advice he ever got, that shaped his journey?

Although these words weren’t said exactly, looking back, the lesson that stands out to him is this:

“Be willing to walk through the doors God is opening for you.”

When Palacios was about to graduate high school, in 1997, in South Florida, a guidance counselor named Ms. Christie asked him what his plans were. He said he was intending to stay close to home to attend college. It struck her as a safe choice, one that wouldn’t stretch him to be his best. He knew it was safe as well: Looking back, he recalled, he was likely to end up working in construction, possibly not finishing school — a path many of his own family members had followed.

Ms. Christie knew he had the grades to try to get into the University of Florida. It was too late to apply, really.

“But,” she asked, “if I can make something happen for you, will you do it?”

Palacios remembers that moment as a door that God was opening for him. He was being asked to take a risk and go farther away from home, to a more challenging academic environment, and he currently had no place to live there, no job.

Still, he took what he calls now a leap of faith. And that has made all the difference in his life since then.

“I know God put Ms. Christie in my

BIZ BUZZ

Halifax Health Brooks Rehabilitation announces newly expanded unit

Halifax Health Brooks Rehabilitation — Center for Inpatient Rehabilitation, located within Halifax Health Medical Center of Daytona Beach, recently announced its expansion, adding 12 more private beds to its 40-bed unit.

path for a reason,” Palacios recalled, “to see the potential in me.”

Another teacher, Mr. Long, had a similar impact on him by challenging him to take harder classes than he had planned, in middle school. Without Mr. Long, he wouldn’t have had as much success in high school, which means he wouldn’t have been in position to go to the University of Florida at all.

Palacios was recently honored to join the Gator100, which recognized

Brooks Rehabilitation receives a therapy schedule, 24/7 nursing care and an individualized care plan overseen by a board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation physician. For Halifax Health Team Member Jamie Boudreau, it was an obvious

his business as one of the 100 fastestgrowing businesses led by University of Florida alumni.

Today, Palacios is motivated to give back. “The point of life I’m in, I have the ability to help or be a conduit, to be the person that opens the door for someone else. It’s my responsibility, understanding where I’ve been.”

—BRIAN MCMILLLAN

choice when she needed rehabilitation after Guillain-Barre Syndrome.

“If I didn’t have Halifax Health Brooks Rehabilitation to support me, I don’t feel I’d be walking today,” she said.

The inpatient center is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities for stroke, brain injury, cancer, and comprehensive patients, according to a press release. Halifax Health Brooks Rehabilitation is one of three facilities in the state with a CARF accredited cancer program.

Each patient at Halifax Health

Erick Palacios, owner of Plan to Prosper Wealth Management. Courtesy photo

Halifax Health celebrates the expansion of its inpatient rehabilitation services. Courtesy photo

Deeper background checks for coaches?

SIERRA WILLIAMS

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Per a Florida State Statute that goes into effect in 2026, the Palm Coast City Council is ironing out an ordinance requiring all coaches and assistant coaches to undergo a Level 2 background check.

Though none of Palm Coast’s sports organizations are operated through the city, many use the city’s parks and fields for their games. A Level 2 background check includes a state and national criminal history search using fingerprinting.

The new Florida statute requiring the background checks was passed in 2024, Parks and Recreation Director James Hirst said at the June 10 City Council meeting, but is not in effect until July 1, 2026. The statute requires all background checks go through the Agency for Health Care Administration Clearinghouse and states that no one may serve as a coach without a complete background check.

BIZ BUZZ

Ritz-Carlton Residences, Hammock Dunes set sales record at $20M

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Hammock Dunes, have just made Flagler County history with two record-breaking sales. BH Group, a luxury real estate developer based in South Florida, announced on Monday, June 16, that both penthouses in the North Tower of The RitzCarlton Residences, Hammock Dunes have been reserved, totaling about a $20 million sale — the highest residential

Hirst said the city already requires Level 2 background checks for any employees, volunteers and event vendors.

“Any vendor that interacts with children — Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, things like that — they also have to go through a Level 2 background check,” Hirst said.

Instead of requiring coaches to perform background checks through city, incurring additional costs, the council decided to go the route of having teams and organizations sign affidavits swearing their coaches have completed the background checks, and include a list of the coaches.

The details are still being worked out. Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri asked that proof the checks were conducted be provided to the city, while the entire council debated on what would disqualify coaches from assisting.

Typically, Acting City Manager Lauren Johnston said parent organizations — like Little League — already

A rendering showing what The Ritz-Carlton, Hammock Dunes, will look like once built. Courtesy photo

sale in Flagler County history, according to a news release.

“These sales are a testament not only to the strength of Florida’s luxury real estate market but also to the unique vision we’ve brought to Hammock Dunes,” said Isaac Toledano,

require Level 2 background checks for coaches. Council member Ty Miller, however, said those searches focus on child-related crimes, instead of including certain drug and violence charges.

“It doesn’t seem right to me,” Miller said.

Miller proposed including violent and drug crimes as part of the disqualifying factors, but also suggested a time element be considered as well.

“You don’t want to exclude someone who did something 18 years ago and has now cleaned up their life,” Miller said.

Pontieri agreed. Some of the children in these programs, she said, come from a troubled background themselves.

“Sometimes it takes a person who’s been through that to pull a kid out of it,” she said. “I certainly don’t want to disqualify coaches who have turned their lives around.”

Mayor Mike Norris said he was concerned about possibly opening the process up to discrimination.

CEO of BH Group. “Flagler County is emerging as a rising player in the state’s luxury real estate market.”

The two buyers are from New Jersey and Florida.

Previously, Flagler County’s highest residential sale was an ocean view home in the Hammock Dunes area, which sold in June 2024 for $5.2 million.

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Hammock Dunes, at 197-201

Avenue De La Mer, Palm Coast, is expected to be completed in 2027. It will feature two towers with 128 oceanfront residential condominium units spanning approximately 6.8 acres. It is the final large-scale residential opportunity within the Hammock Dunes master plan.

Faith in Flagler

St. Thomas Episcopal Church

• 5400 Belle Terre Pkwy, Palm Coast

• Sundays: 8 a.m. Holy Communion; 9:15 a.m.

11 a.m.

Building faith strengthens our community.

The wonder of the Easter experiences in scripture, is that they open for the believer a world of possibility. We all tend to fall into a worldview governed by limitations when faced with grief or hardship. So, we need a community to remind us of a grander vision. A vision not defined by failure but possibility, not scarcity but by abundance, not by remembered offenses, but set free by forgiveness and reconciliation.

Brought to you by

Rev. Bob Goolsby

Teen chased on e-bike, SUV driver arrested

Palm Coast teen’s father was told at first that nothing could be done.

SIERRA WILLIAMS

STAFF WRITER

Palm Coast resident Adam Ellis said he was “shell-shocked” by the response from local law enforcement after his 14-year-old son was chased down by a woman driving an SUV while riding his e-bike on June 7.

Julia Kalthof, 65, of Palm Coast was arrested on June 10 and is now facing a felony aggravated assault with a deadly weapon charge after she chased Ellis’ son Gaige down the Pine Lakes Parkway pedestrian path. A bystander eventually cut Kalthof’s car off at an intersection, allowing Gaige to escape home.

“This happened only three miles from our house,” Ellis said. The incident was recorded by the bystander’s girlfriend and by Gaige. But Kalthof’s arrest only came after Ellis said he spent three days waiting on FCSO deputies to take action. Ultimately, after the arrest was made, Sheriff Rick Staly issued this statement:

“This woman caused a dangerous situation with her reckless and aggressive behavior and could have seriously hurt or killed not just the child she was chasing, but anyone who happened to be walking or biking on that path. I’m thankful that nobody was hurt, or she could be facing even more serious charges. I also want to thank the bystander who stopped a dangerous situation and called 911 so that our deputies could handle it, conduct their investigation, and arrest this driver who clearly needs anger management.”

According to Florida law, an e-bike is a vehicle to the same extent as a bicycle. E-bikes may be rid -

COPS CORNER

JUNE 4

‘EXCITED DELIRIUM’

9:25 p.m. — 100 block of Briargate Look, Ormond Beach

Disturbance. Police arrived at a local neighborhood after an 80-yearold Ormond man entered his neighbors’ garage and wielded a brush in a “threatening manner.”

The verbal altercation began after the man accused the neighbors of not mowing his lawn, as they had agreed upon, although the grass was indeed cut, an incident report states.

den wherever bicycles are allowed, including multiuse paths.

“E-bikes are becoming more and more prevalent in Palm Coast, and the riders need to control their speed and recklessness too,” Sheriff Staly added. “The Legislature needs to give us the new laws to address the behavior of these riders, such as limiting the allowed speed riders can go, just like cars.”

SLOW RESPONSE

Ellis said he couldn’t believe it when the deputy told him on June 8 there was nothing to be done. According to the computer aided dispatch notes of Ellis’ conversation with the deputy — no written report was filed — Gaige told the deputy that the woman chased him from a neighboring subdivision, almost cut him off at an intersection and then almost hit him with her vehicle.

Despite that, the deputy said driving on the pedestrian path was a traffic violation and that the video evidence Gaige recorded was not proof of intent to commit a crime, Ellis said.

FCSO Division Chief Jon Welker said Kalthof was not initially charged because there was no evidence of intent to harm behind her actions. Kalthof did admit to following Gaige on his e-bike, on a pedestrian path. Later, the FCSO’s report stated that she had been only 6-10 feet behind Gaige in her SUV.

She said she wanted to confront him about his speed, according to her arrest report.

And because Gaige did not remain on scene to make a statement, Kalthof was released without a citation that night. In the initial interview with deputies, Welker said Gaige “didn’t describe any intent” on Kalthof’s part. Ellis said he took to social media. He posted his son’s video, which showed Gaige riding his e-bike at

One of the neighbors grabbed the man’s arm and hit the brush out of his hand, which resulted in the man falling backward on the floor. The neighbor yelled at him to leave his property, and threw the brush into the driveway. The man then left.

The neighbors wished to press charges.

Police then spoke with the man, who was seen holding the same brush while walking down the road. After he was instructed to drop it, and refused, police eventually grabbed it out of his hand.

Officers placed him in handcuffs, but the report noted that as they spoke with him, “he was very excited and appeared to be not fully coher-

night on one of Palm Coast’s multiuse pedestrian paths with a car behind him. Ellis said his Facebook post “exploded.”

The next day, Ellis called the dispatch line when he did not hear anything from the FCSO. The dispatcher’s advice, Ellis said, was to call 911 and start the report all over again.

So he did. And again, he said, the responding deputy told him the same thing: Nothing can be done.

“That’s when the emotions overtook,” Ellis said. “I threatened to sue him. I said, ‘I need your badge number. I’m going to hire any attorney that will take this.’”

Ellis also began reaching out to the press. It was through a reporter with the Daytona Beach News Journal, he said, that he even learned there was a witness who intervened on his son’s behalf, and that a second video of the chase that showed Kalthof driving behind Gaige’s e-bike on the pedestrian path had been uploaded and given to the FCSO.

It wasn’t until the next day, Tuesday, June 10, that the deputy returned to his home with a supervisor who apologized to him for how his son’s case was handled.

That evening, Ellis said, the FCSO deputy called and said Kalthof had been arrested on an aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and a misdemeanor for reckless driving.

“The witness statement matched my son’s statement to the letter,” Ellis said.

Welker said the deputy found probable cause for aggravated assault after further interviews. Welker said Gaige added details to his statement during the interview and “determined he felt fear based on her actions.”

Ellis said he’s glad Kalthof was arrested.

“I don’t know why anybody would chase a child,” he said.

ent of his surroundings.”

Paramedics suspected he was experiencing “excited delirium.” Police spoke with the neighbors, who then decided against pressing charges.

The man was taken to the hospital.

JUNE 8

SECRET IDENTITY

10:28 p.m. — Intersection of Hand Avenue and South Orchard Street, Ormond Beach Loitering or prowling. Police arrested a 45-year-old Holly Hill man who threw a knife sheath at an unmarked patrol car before fleeing.

When the suspect was eventually detained, one of the officers

BRIEFS

Commerce Parkway is nearly ready to open

The newly constructed roadway corridor called Commerce Parkway will open for traffic sometime in August.

“It’s taken more than 20 years of collaboration between the City of Bunnell, the Florida Department of Transportation, and Flagler County to get us to this moment,” County Commission Chair Andy Dance said in the news release. “This project stands as a testament to what collaboration can achieve. Commerce Parkway will serve as a catalyst for light industrial and commercial growth right here in Bunnell, helping to diversify our economy and bring new jobs and investment to the area.”

Commerce Parkway will connect State Road 100 and U.S. 1 in Bunnell, and will improve safety by cutting the travel time for first responders, as well as residents, between the two points, the news release states. It will also open previously landlocked properties for light industrial, commercial and residential growth.

In July 2022, the state allocated $6.8 million to Bunnell for the project through legislative appropriation funding. Flagler County and the City of Bunnell added $5.9 million toward the roadway and utilities. The project is currently projected to be completed approximately $1 million under the estimated $12.75 million total cost.

Commerce Parkway consists of two, undivided 11-foot lanes, with a 5-foot sidewalk along the eastern side.

Victim charged with theft of mother’s gun

A 16-year-old Palm Coast boy who was robbed at gunpoint of his cash and a gun he took from his mother in May is now facing a grand theft charge, a Flagler County press release said.

questioned his attire — the man was wearing a long black shirt, long dark pants and a dark mask. Because it was 79 degrees outside with 83% humidity, the reporting officer noted the man’s outfit was abnormal.

On his clothing, the man said he “does not like people knowing his identity.”

Police discovered he was currently on probation for a felony charge of written threats to kill. He was taken to jail.

JUNE 9

FIND MY EARBUDS

12:51 p.m. — 600 block of South Oceanshore Boulevard, Flagler Beach

The teenager took the gun to show to two other 16-year-old boys, who then robbed him while holding a gun to his head. In a statement to deputies at the time of the theft, the victim in the theft said he took his mother’s gun to look cool and fit in, according to a press release in May. Now, the victim in the robbery is facing his own grand theft of a firearm charge and possession of a firearm by a minor, a June 11 FCSO press release said.

“All three teens involved in this case are being held accountable for their bad choices,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “This situation could have ended in tragedy. Parents, be the sheriff of your own home and lock up your firearms. Keeping guns out of the wrong hands starts at home and is one of the most important things you can do to keep your family and our community safe.”

Ormond woman in Flagler hid syringes, drugs in genitals

An Ormond Beach woman arrested in Palm Coast on June 15 was found to have hidden six syringes and two grams of fentanyl in a sock in her genitals.

Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputies pulled over Jessica Reno, 34, when a patrol car’s automatic license plate reader indicated the plate on her pickup truck belonged to a different vehicle. When deputies ran her license, it came up as suspended and her vehicle’s registration was expired, a FCSO press release said. Deputies placed Reno under arrest and searched her in field, where Reno told deputies she did not have any narcotics or weapons on her person, the press release said. But as Reno was being booked at the Flagler County jail, a more thorough search using the facility’s x-ray machine found a sock hidden in her genitalia. In the sock, detention deputies found six syringes and a plastic bag with two grams of fentanyl, the press release said.

Petit theft. Police arrested a 30-year-old Palm Coast man who stole a backpack on the beach containing AirPods, which helped officers track him down. The victim had set his backpack down on the sand before entering the water, returning half an hour later to find it gone, according to the man’s arrest report. The victim tracked his AirPods to the library, then to a local grocery store.

Officers identified a suspect on a bench, but the man denied stealing the AirPods. However, when the victim pinged them, a sound came from the man’s pocket. He then confessed to the theft was taken to jail.

REAL ESTATE

Hammock Dunes condo tops

Asales list in Flagler

condo at 15 Avenue De La Mer, Unit 2702, in Hammock Dunes, was the top real estate transaction for May 31 to June 6 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The house sold on June 2, for $1,450,000. Built in 1996, the condo is a 3/3.5 and has 3,068 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $640,000.

ALEXIS MILLER

Condos

A condo at 900 Ocean Marina Drive, Unit 900, sold on June 6, for $219,000. Built in 1989, the condo is a 1/1 and has 804 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $160,000.

A condo at 17 Veranda Way, Unit 20, sold on June 4, for $272,500. Built in 2002, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,453 square feet. It sold in 2014 for $160,000.

A condo at 20 Marina Point Place sold on June 3, for $406,479. Built in 1993, the condo is a 3/2.5 and has 1,875 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $350,000.

A condo at 55 Riverview Bend South, Unit 2021, sold on June 2, for $259,900. Built in 2007, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,115 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $210,000.

A condo at 2450 N. Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 315, sold on June 2, for $875,000. Built in 2007, the condo is a 3/3 and has 2,162 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $950,000.

FLAGLER BEACH

Eagle Lakes

A house at 9 Eagle Lake Drive sold on June 6, for $390,000. Built in 2007, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,039 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $320,000.

PALM COAST

Belle Terre

A house at 13 President Lane sold on June 4, for $268,000. Built in 2001, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,273 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $197,900.

A house at 84 Ponce De Leon Drive sold on June 5, for $245,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,014 square feet. It sold in 2011 for $105,000.

Ocean Hammock

A house at 30 Oak View Circle East sold on June 5, for

Plantation Bay pool home is the top sale

Ahouse at 1068 Hampstead Lane in Plantation Bay was the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea for the week of May 24-30. The house sold on May 29, for $833,500. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/3 and has a pool, a spa and 3,131 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $749,000.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

Condos

The condo at 120 Limewood Place, Unit A, sold on May 28, for $190,000. Built in 1986, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,196 square feet. It last sold in 1994 for $65,000.

ORMOND BEACH

Archer’s Mill

The house at 335 Barebow Lane sold on May 27, for $369,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,034 square feet.

The house at 3239 Arch Ave. sold on May 28, for $449,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,361 square feet.

Fountain View

The house at 1507 Fountain View St. sold on May 27, for $404,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,020 square feet.

Halifax Plantation

The house at 2956 Arranmore Drive sold on May 27, for $599,000. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/4.5 and has 2,921 square feet.

The house at 2944 Arranmore Drive sold on May 27, for $550,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 4/3.5 and has 2,721 square feet.

$975,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 3/3 and has a pool, a hot tub, a fireplace and 2,913 square feet. It sold in 2008 for $1,000,000.

Pine Grove

A house at 24 Pickering Drive sold on June 6, for $319,990. Built in 2023, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,600 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $332,900.

Pine Lakes A house at 4 Winterling Place sold on June 6, for $350,000. Built in 1997, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,917 square feet.

A house at 36 Welling Lane sold on June 5, for $425,000. Built in 1989, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a hot tub, a fireplace and 1,915 square feet. It sold in 2025 for $285,000.

A house at 50 Westbury Lane sold on June 4, for $530,000. Built in 2021, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool, a hot tub and 2,208 square feet

A house at 57 Wood Haven Drive sold on June 4, for $438,000. Built in 1999, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 2,167 square feet.

Reverie at Palm Coast

A house at 4 Jackson Blue Place sold on June 6, for $349,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,693 square feet.

Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report.

square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $180,000.

Park Place

The townhome at 30 Park Place sold on May 29, for $225,000. Built in 1983, the townhome is a 2/2 and has 1,021 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $205,000.

Plantation Bay

The townhome at 781 Aldenham Lane sold on May 27, for $352,000. Built in 2016, the townhome is a 2/2 and has 1,510 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $316,000.

Springleaf

Hunter’s Ridge The house at 164 Pergola Place sold on May 27, for $357,000. Built in 2015, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,175 square feet. It last sold in 2015 for $209,000.

Not in subdivision

The house at 3425 Saltee Circle sold on May 28, for $440,000. Built in 2006, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,341 square feet. It last sold in 2006 for $298,231.

The house at 672 N. Beach St. sold on May 27, for $540,000. Built in 1974, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 2,058 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $350,000.

Ormond Lakes

The house at 9 Emerald Oaks Lane sold on May 27, for $690,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 4/3 and has a pool and 2,790 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $594,000.

Ormond Terrace The house at 530 McIntosh Road sold on May 27, for $470,000. Built in 1957, the house is a 3/2 and has a greenhouse, detached garage, 1/1.5 apartment and 2,060

The house at 1457 Springleaf Drive sold on May 27, for $310,000. Built in 2016, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,595 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $186,000.

The Trails

The townhome at 207 Pine Cone Trail sold on May 27, for $175,000. Built in 1978, the townhome is a 3/2.5 and has a fireplace and 1,698 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $125,000.

ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA

Avalon by the Sea

The house at 159 Avalon Drive sold on May 28, for $343,000. Built in 2001, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,147 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $333,000.

Not in subdivision

The house at 18 Concord Drive sold on May 29, for $440,000. Built in 1976, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,538 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $265,0000.

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

Local ‘No Kings’ protests draw thousands

About 3,000 people took part in the “No Kings” protest at the Daytona Beach City Hall on Saturday, June 14. Large crowds also gathered in locations around Palm Coast.

The local protests were among about 2,000 nationwide in response to President Donald Trump’s military parade in Washington, D.C.

“Across all 50 states, communities will gather to declare: The president is not a king,” a press release about the local protest stated. “No Kings is a nationwide day of defiance. From city blocks to small towns, from courthouse steps to community parks, we’re taking action to reject authoritarianism — and show the world what democracy really looks like.”

STAFF

LETTERS

Making history

Dear Editor:

The cities of Palm Coast and Flagler Beach did their part and turned out a large contingent of “No Kings Day” rally supporters. It was the biggest local showing so far, with estimates over 1,000. And it was part of huge peaceful gatherings countrywide which had some estimates exceeding 5 million, becoming one of the largest one-day protests, if not the largest, in U.S. his-

BRIEFS

Flagler County leadership academy holds graduation

Twelve executives, managers, and professionals graduated from the Flagler County Local Government Leadership Academy at a special ceremony at the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Operations Center on Thursday, June 12. The graduates are:

„ Michael Hanson, City of Palm Coast

„ Benny Cope, City of Palm Coast

„ Jean Ferrer, Office of the Flagler County Tax Collector

„ Stephanie Field, Office of the Flagler County Tax Collector

„ Bryanna Ivey, Office of the Flagler County Tax Collector

„ Megan Scheide, Office of the Flagler County Tax Collector

„ Jonathan Welker, Flagler County Sheriff’s Office

„ Amanda Raslowsky, Flagler County Board of County Commissioners

„ Kelly Bowman, Flagler County Board of County Commissioners

„ Toussaint Roberson, Flagler

tory. And that’s a big deal. It is only rivaled by the 2017 Women’s March of 3-5 million.

But what was most impressive, despite the fear mongering, including threatening almost doomsday rhetoric by various Florida law enforcement officials, and even our governor, who seemed almost hungry for violence, both statewide and nationwide, it was almost totally peaceful. And that’s an even bigger deal. There were, of course, a few opposition theatrical middle fingers noted in Palm

County School Board

„ Bill Freeman, City of Flagler Beach

„ Sarah Spector, Flagler County Board of County Commissioners

Daytona State College partners with the Flagler County Tax Collector’s Office and local governments to provide this leadership academy, which now has several dozen graduates in executive, managerial, and professional roles serving the citizens of Flagler County. Graduates receive a certificate of completion from DSC.

The academy is an intensive four-month executive education program which meets weekly for two-hour classes at the Tax Collector’s Office.

Tuition freeze approved for 15th consecutive year at Daytona State

Recognizing the need to keep college affordable for all students, Daytona State College is freezing tuition and associated fees for the upcoming 2025-26 academic year. This marks the 15th consecutive year of no increases in tuition and associated fee rates. The DSC District Board

Coast, but no violence at all, and not even any meaningful counter protests. Here, we had just gentle, peaceful, but very determined souls with a strong message to send.

And given the turnout of the rally in our little town and the millions around the country, that message was no doubt duly noted.

MARGARET MINUTAGLIO

Palm Coast

We, The People

Dear Editor:

The No Kings event held on Flag Day was a good

of Trustees approved the tuition freeze on Thursday, June 12, at its regular monthly meeting.

The tuition freeze applies to all DSC bachelor’s, associates, career and technical certificate programs, as well as adult education. In 2015, DSC was the only state college to lower tuition by 2%.

Volusia Medical Examiner helps solve missing diver case

It’s not often that a diver helps solve the mystery of another diver’s disappearance — but that’s precisely what happened when Volusia County Medical Examiner Dr. James Fulcher brought both his forensic expertise and deep diving experience to bear on a nearly 20-year-old cold case.

A certified diver with 25 years of experience, Fulcher is no stranger to the risks and mechanics of diving. He is also the continuing medical education director and main lecturer for the International Society of Aquatic Medicine, an organization that evaluates dive safety and fitness to dive from a physician’s perspective. That firsthand

reminder of the spirit of this country’s founding and We, The People’s right to protest authoritarian government rule.

Along with many American flags being flown, I also saw USMC (United States Marine Corp) and Pride (pro-LGBT) flags expressing freedom.

My personal favorite was the Gadsden (“Don’t Tread on Me”) flag.

I hope this energy continues to grow in the years to come to serve as a reminder to whoever the president is — Republican, Democrat or other — that We The People are not subjects to a king but a free people with liberty and

knowledge proved essential in evaluating a set of recovered dive gear belonging to a man who vanished off the coast of Ponce Inlet in 2006. The case had gone cold despite years of investigation. In 2007, a diver discovered gear at an offshore site east of Ponce Inlet, and partial human remains later washed ashore in New Smyrna Beach. DNA testing at the time failed to provide a match. The decedent was officially listed as a missing person in 2008.

It wasn’t until 2024 that the Volusia County Medical Examiner’s Office submitted the unidentified remains for advanced forensic testing under a state-funded initiative. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement determined it qualified for specialized support under the Missing and Unidentified Human Remains grant program. That funding enabled forensic genetic genealogy testing, a powerful tool for identifying individuals when traditional DNA comparison has failed.

Salt water, sun, sand, and time had all conspired to destroy most of the decedent’s biological material — conditions that usually make DNA recovery impossible. Yet, a private lab specializing in degraded DNA was able to

justice for all.

JOE HANNOUSH Ormond Beach

A federal mandate

Dear Editor:

The front page headline “Mom’s imminent deportation devastates Palm Coast family” (Observer’s June 12 edition) is certainly a tragic story. The parents made a very poor decision coming here illegally.

President Trump received a mandate from the American people with his 2024 landslide election victory to enforce immigration law.

extract a viable profile.

In April 2025, FDLE’s Genetic Genealogy Investigations Team began its work.

One month later, they made a match: the remains belonged to Robert Martin, a diver who disappeared in 2006 during a trip to a popular dive site known as the “party grounds,” about 20 miles offshore.

From there, Fulcher and a detective from the Volusia Sheriff’s Office examined Martin’s recovered diving equipment.

“With my diving background, I could examine the equipment and picture what he likely experienced,” Fulcher said. “Based on the condition of the gear and known challenges of the dive site, we were able to pinpoint probable malfunctions and evaluate how his habits may have played a role. That helped us determine this was a tragic accident — not foul play.”

The Medical Examiner’s Office has officially ruled the manner of death accidental. Martin’s next of kin has been notified.

Volusia analyzes shifting sands, planning for beach protection

In a continued effort to strengthen shoreline resilience and model the unique sand dynamics of the county’s coastline, the Volusia County Council approved funding this month to continue annual beach profile surveys along the county’s coastline.

These surveys play a critical role in the county’s longterm beach management

Parents who come here illegally do so knowing they may be deported. Our immigration laws maintain public safety, and prevent the economic burdens of illegal immigration. All those who violate these laws must be held accountable. Even in Palm Coast.

ADAM LANGE Palm Coast

Send letters to brent@ observerlocalnews.com. Include first and last name, as well as city of residence. Editor may alter the letter for clarity and/or length.

strategy by providing the scientific data needed to track how sand shifts along the shoreline, whether it is being lost or built up, to plan future shoreline protection projects, and to respond effectively to coastal storms.

The beach profile data will extend from the top of a dune or seawall to approximately 30 feet of water depth. It is collected by near-shore survey vessels, surveyors in waders, and all-terrain vehicles.

Volusia County has conducted these surveys in partnership with Taylor Engineering, Inc., since 2019 to ensure a reliable, sciencebased understanding of how local beaches are changing over time.

Palm Coast named a Tree City for 20th consecutive year

Palm Coast has been recognized as a Tree City USA community by the Arbor Day Foundation for the 20th consecutive year. The milestone reflects the City’s long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible urban forestry, a press release stated. Palm Coast Urban Forester Carol Mini said to qualify as a Tree City community, the city must maintain a tree board, adopt a tree care ordinance invest in urban forestry and celebrate Arbor Day.

“These actions show we’re not just planting trees—we’re building a legacy,” Mini said. Send news tips to jarleene@ observerlocalnews.com.

People take part in the “No Kings” protest at the Daytona Beach City Hall on Saturday, June 14. Courtesy photos

YOUR NEIGHBORS

World Champs

Flagler County students take first place in international Future Problem Solvers competition.

OBSERVER STAFF

A team of Flagler County students won first place at the Future Problem Solvers 2025 International Conference.

The conference is the highest level competition for the Future Problem Solvers. This year, 59 Flagler County students competed amidst 1,465 champion problem solvers from across 11 countries and 262 different schools and groups at Indiana University June 4-8.

Flagler County students placed at two divisions in the conference. The Flagler Palm Coast High Schools’ Global Issues Problem Solving team — FPC students Jack Mikutel, Liam Lafferty, Vicky DaSilva Carvalheira and Ava Mello — placed first against the other senior teams in their division.

Elevyn Thompson, of Indian Trail Middle School, took third place in the

junior division of the Multi Affiliate Global Issues Competition.

“All students and teams worked very hard to represent Flagler County and Florida the very best,” FPS Coach Amy Kopach wrote in an email. “Just getting to compete at this level is an honor.”

The Flagler County students ranged across all grade levels, with representatives from Matanzas High School, Flagler Palm Coast High School, Indian Trails Middle School and Rymfire Elementary School. Kopach and fellow coach Beth Blumengarten said they are happy to see the amount of students who choose

to participate in the FPS program each year.

“It is no small task to organize trips to the state and international competitions, but the experience for the students makes it all worth it,” the coaches wrote in an email statement. “These are memories that they will hold on to forever.”

Send community news and other school news to Brent Woronoff at brent@observerlocalnews.com.

Community Foundation, United Way award grants to 25 local nonprofits

Efforts to enhance education, financial stability and health for local residents will get an $800,000 boost in July from the Community Foundation and United Way of VolusiaFlagler Counties with grants to 25 nonprofit organizations.

The awards, part of the CF/ UWVFC’s Community Impact grantmaking initiative, were approved May 19 by its Board of Directors. The one-year funding for will begin July 1. Programs to be funded

were selected through an open application process led by the all- volunteer Community Impact Cabinet. Eight of the chosen programs and six of the organizations are receiving Community Impact funding for the first time.

“The CF/UWVFC and Board of Directors are incredibly grateful to the Community Impact Cabinet volunteers for their countless volunteer hours and commitment to a fair and equitable process for all applicants,” said Courtney Edgcomb, president and CEO of the Community Foundation and United Way of VolusiaFlagler Counties. “We are thrilled to expand our support to more local nonprofit organizations and to create meaningful change with them over the next year.”

The Flagler County Educa-

tion Foundation, one of the recipients, received a $42,000 grant for its Career Coaching to Diploma Plus program.

“Through the Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia Flagler Counties and Flagler County Education Foundation, the Career Coaching to Diploma Plus program has connected all Flagler students and families with real-world industry experiences and local career pathways,” said Teresa Rizzo, executive director of the Ed Foundation. “By partnering with businesses and hosting career fairs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities, the program helps students explore various professions and develop post-graduation plans. This initiative empowers families to engage in their child’s future, foster-

ing a stronger school-tocareer pipeline across Flagler County.”

Funded education programs will prepare children to enter kindergarten ready to succeed or help youth make successful transitions into, through and out of K-12 systems.

“We’re honored to support so many incredible nonprofits and excited to see the ripple effect of impact grow — especially with the newly funded partners expanding the reach of those who need it most,” said Stephanie C. Parks, chair of the Community Impact Cabinet and assistant director of FUTURES Foundation for Volusia County Schools.

The CF/UWVFC raises funds through an annual campaign and other sources to provide financial and

capacity-building support to nonprofits, disaster assistance and programs with community benefits. The grant recipients were:

„ Boys & Girls Clubs of Volusia/Flagler Counties, $47,000

„ CATALYST Global Youth Initiatives, $17,000

„ Catholic Charities of Central Florida, $32,000

„ Children’s Home Society of Florida, $42,000

„ Council on Aging of Volusia County, $47,000

„ Domestic Abuse Council of Volusia County, $42,000

„ Early Learning Coalition of Flagler and Volusia Counties, $22,000

„ Easterseals Northeast Central Florida, $20,000

„ Family Life Center, $37,000

„ Family Renew Community, $37,000

„ First Step Shelter, $47,000

„ Flagler Cares, $42,000

„ Flagler County Education Foundation, $42,000

„ Foundations to Freedom, $16,000

„ IMPOWER, $16,000

„ Jewish Federation of Volusia & Flagler Counties, $20,000

„ PACE Center for Girls Volusia-Flagler, $47,000

„ Presbyterian Counseling Center, $27,000

„ Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, $20,000

The Neighborhood Center of West Volusia, $47,000

The Salvation Army, $20,000

Volusia-Flagler County Coalition for

Flagler County sent 59 students from Matanzas High School, Flagler Palm Coast High School, Indian Trails Middle School and Rymfire Elementary School to the International Future Problem Solvers Conference. Photos courtesy of Amy Kopach

Elevyn Thompson from Indian Trails Middle School won third place for her team, MAGIC. Pictured: Thompson with coach Hannah Anderson.

The Flagler Palm Coast GIPS team won first place. From left to right: Coach Danielle Moss, Vicky DaSilva Carvalheira, Ava Mello, Liam Lafferty and Jack Mikutel.

LOCAL EVENTS

THURDSAY, JUNE 19

ORMOND BEACH AREA

DEMOCRATIC CLUB

MEETING

When: 6:30-8:15 p.m.

Where: 56 N. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach

Details: Attend the June meeting of the Ormond Beach Area Democratic Club. Updates will be presented and discussed of current national and local issues, activities, gatherings and planning activities to continue effectively organize, act, and raise our voices. Like minded guests are welcome to attend. Club information can be found at ormondbeachdems.org.

FRIDAY, JUNE 20

MIXED MEDIA ASSEMBLAGE

When: 12-4 p.m.

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

Details: This is a one-day workshop with instructor Loretta Youngman. For more information and to register, visit artleague.org or contact us at 386-947-7103.

SATURDAY, JUNE 21

AFRICAN NEW YEAR 6265

When: 10 a.m.

Where: African American Cultural Society Cultural Center and Museum, 4422 U.S. Highway 1, Palm Coast

Details: The African American Cultural Society invites the public to celebrate the African New Year 6265, an event honoring the creation of the world’s first solar calendar over 6,265 years ago. Prior to the program, there will be a sunrise gathering at Jungle Hut Road Beach at 6 a.m. Free admission. For more information, call 386-447-7030.

MONDAY, JUNE 23

TRUE NORTH VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

When: 9 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, June 23-27

Where: Lighthouse Christ Presbyterian Church, 1035 W. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach

Details: Lighthouse Christ Presbyterian Church will host a vacation Bible school where kids will participate in Biblelearning activities, sing songs, play teamwork-building games, enjoy treats, experience Bible adventures, collect Bible Buddies Tags and test out science experiments. Family members and friends are encouraged to join in daily at 11:40 a.m. for a Compass Closing. Children will also join a missions effort to provide local families in need with school supplies. Open to kids entering kindergarten to fifth grade. For more information, call 386-677-4076 or visit lighthousecpc.org.

WILDLIFE WEEK CAMP

When: 9 a.m. to noon

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

Ormond Beach

Details: OMAM invites campers ages 6-11 to step into the wild side of life at the museum, where they will choose a favorite habitat, such as forest, ocean, or desert, and use yarns to bring it to life. Other activities include sculpting a plaster alligator, creating shark-themed suncatchers and more. Camp costs $135 for members and $150 for future members. Register at ormondartmuseum.org.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25

ART TALK: ‘WHAT’S THAT BANANA TAPED TO THE WALL ALL ABOUT?’

When: 2-3 p.m.

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

Details: Italian artist Maurizio Catteland exhibited a banana duct-taped to the wall at Miami’s Art Basel, which he titled “Comedian.” It sold for $6.2 million at Sotheby’s, creating an uproar. Guest curator, Ruth Grim will attempt to provide some reasons why. Free admission. Registration requested. Seats are limited. Visit ormondartmuseum.org.

THURSDAY, JUNE 26

PALM COAST CONCERT SERIES

When: 6-8 p.m.

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

Details: See the band Half Step Down at this free community event. There will be live music, food trucks, ven-

dors, yard games, and beer and wine. Bring a chair.

FRIDAY, JUNE 27

BARBECUE AND JAZZ

When: 4-7 p.m.

Where: Palm Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE, Palm Coast

Details: The North East Florida Jazz Association invites the community to listen to jazz while enjoying barbecue at its annual Barbecue and Jazz event. The music will feature NEFJA scholarship winner and local Jazz percussionist Ethan Grussgott and his quintet. Tickets cost $45. Seating is limited. For tickets or more information, visit NEFJA.org or call Muriel McCoy at 386-445-1329.

CMTW PRESENTS

‘BEETLEJUICE JR.’

When: 7 p.m. on Friday, June 27; 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 28

Where: Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center, 399 N. U.S. 1, Ormond Beach

Details: Children’s Musical Theatre Workshop is celebrating its 43rd year and presenting its 2025 Summer Musical Theatre Camp Show. This musical is based on the movie turned Broadway phenomenon and tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange an unusual teenager. Tickets cost $25 for 13 and up and $200 for children 4-12. Kids 3 and under are free with a paid adult ticket. Visit ormondbeachperformingartscenter. csstix.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 28

OYSTERS FOR ORMOND: VERTICAL OYSTER GARDEN WORKDAY

When: 9 a.m. to noon

Where: River Lily Inn B&B;, 558 Riverside Drive, Daytona Beach

Details: Come build vertical oyster gardens to hang on local docks. Help protect the river, connect with friends and create cleaner, healthier waters for generations to come. Clubs, groups, or students who want volunteer hours for an environmental project are welcome. Bring a team of six to compete for prizes.

MINI FELTED LANDSCAPES

When: 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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

Details: Create a mini landscape using 2D needle felting techniques with Liz Canali. Participants will learn how to translate the design, choose the appropriate woods, create a sky, foreground and details. All materials are included. Class costs $50 for members and $60 for non-members. Register at www.ormondartmuseum.org/classesprograms.

THIRD ANNUAL CHILDREN’S BUSINESS FAIR

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

Where: Palm Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE, Palm Coast

Details: Hosted by Culinary Wellness, this is a one-day

fair created for local youth vendors to sell and showcase their products and/ or services. There will be handmade crafts, artwork, 3D prints and other products made by children ages 6-18. Registration closes on June 20. Youth vendor fee is $30. Visit childrensbusinessfair. org/palmcoast.

STROKE AWARENESS

When: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: South Ormond Neighborhood Center, 176 Division Ave., Ormond Beach Details: Healthier Wealthier Wiser, Inc. is hosting its third seminar of the year, this time themed on stroke awareness with guest speaker Shirley Thompson, a registered nurse. There will be a free lunch and health screenings. RSVP by emailing investinhealth2022@gmail.com.

ONGOING

MOAS EXHIBITIONS

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday

Where: Museum of Arts and Sciences, 352 S. Nova Road, Daytona Beach

Details: Want to spend a day looking at fine art? The Museum of Arts and Sciences has the following shows on display: “Bugs Outside the Box: Discover the Art Within the Sciences” (opening June 14) ; “Shoosty Bugs: An Art Infestation” ; and “It’s a Ship Show: Florida’s Maritime Canvas.”

‘Very proud’: Palm

The Elks stand for four cardinal virtues: charity, justice, brotherly love and fidelity.

American freedom wasn’t won just once. It was repurchased with every battle fought by American soldiers since 1775.

That was the sentiment conveyed at the Flag Day ceremony on Saturday, June 14, at the Palm Coast Elks Lodge 2709.

Joining other lodges around the United States, the Palm Coast Elks helped the community remember the history and symbolism of the American flag: how it has flown over lands near and far, inspiring people to strive for virtues of bravery, purity and justice, along with the Elks’ cardinal virtues of charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity.

William Hall delivered the speech, as Elks members brought flags representing the progression of the flag’s design through history. One of the largest crowds in recent years at the ceremony participated in singing the national anthem, “God Bless America” and reciting the pledge of allegiance.

Sheriff Rick Staly praised the Elks for keeping the spirit of the flag alive. If people around the country thought more about the history of the flag, there might not be as many people protesting around the country, he said.

Finally, County Commissioner Greg Hansen spoke, explaining how he had served in the U.S. Navy for 27, including commanding two warships and serving in Vietnam for a year.

“I’m very proud to be an American — very proud,” he said, “and days like this reinforce that.” Elks leadership includes Exalted Ruler Pete Lenhertz and Jerry DiMenna, Gerald O’Gara, Frank Amaturo, William Hall, Charles Bensley, Richard Glover, Michael Cook, Dominic Austrino and John Lyons.

YOUR TOWN

JUNETEENTH:

CELEBRATING THE END OF SLAVERY

Juneteenth, the celebration of the Emancipation Proclamation of 1865, which ended slavery, was celebrated on June 14, at the African American Cultural Society in Palm Coast.

Coast Elks Lodge celebrates Flag Day

take 30% of the deceased spouse’s estate — a value that includes not just probate assets, but also revocable trusts, joint accounts, and suspiciously “gifted” property that vanished shortly before death. (Nice try, Carl.) But wait, Florida throws in another surprise: the surviving spouse can instead elect 50% of the deceased spouse’s interest in the primary residence if the home was not jointly owned. That’s right — even if the house was solely in the deceased spouse’s name, the surviving spouse may claim half of its equity (unless they prefer a life estate instead, which entitles them to live there for life). The law calls it equity protection. We call it the ultimate “I’m not going anywhere” clause.

Of course, there’s a timer on this gift from beyond. The spouse must file the elective share claim within 6 months of receiving notice of estate administration, and in any case, within 2 years of death. Miss it, and the chance vanishes like leftover cake at a funeral reception. If all this seems too generous, couples can agree in a prenup or postnup to waive the elective share. This keeps everyone on the same page, and out of court — or off the front porch with a suitcase and nowhere to go.

Bottom line: In Florida, love might not conquer all, but it does come with built-in financial rights. And whether it’s 30% of the estate or 50% of the house, the surviving spouse won’t be left out in the heat.

BRIAN MCMILLAN

Members of the Elks Lodge participate in the Flag Day ceremony.

The Palm Coast Business Professionals Network donated $630 to the Elks Lodge after the Flag Day ceremony.

Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly

William Hall explains the symbolism of the folds in the flag, demonstrated by Tom Coleman and Jerry DiMenna. Photos by Brian McMillan

Flagler County Commissioner Greg Hansen

Michele Knox Larece, Claude Larece and Mamie Godfrey. Photos by Brian McMillan

Barbara Solomon, Board Chair Stephanie Matthews, Tamara Brown, Imani Kinshasa, Eileen McMillan, Delores Clinton, Gloria Singleton, Cathy Pearson

Robot dogs and AI

Bethune-Cookman University hosts Summer Robotics Academy.

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

High school students from throughout the state, and beyond, have spent the last three weeks at BethuneCookman University learning coding, critical thinking and robotics.

Thanks to a Minority Science Engineering Improvement Program grant from the Florida Department of Education, the Summer Robotics Academy aims to increase minority representation in STEM. Rising pre-college students (seniors and juniors) worked in teams to design, build and program a robot while instructors prepared them for future careers in the science sector.

“The idea is to involve the student in the area of robotics, artificial intelligence, coding, math,” said Juan Calderon, assistant professor of computer science at B-CU.

“The principal goal is to try to encourage them to follow careers related with math, science, engineering.”

AI and robotics is the future, he added.

“This is the way we want our students going forward,” Calderon said.

Before student Sean Pierre, of Pompano Beach, attended the academy, he didn’t know how to code. Working with robots is something he had never done before.

And on Tuesday, June 17, students raced robot dogs using coding and artificial intelligence.

“Our team is doing pretty good,” Pierre said. “We’re still working out a little coding, little kinks, so we can get the right speed, the right turns and stuff like that.”

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Of the 26 students taking part in the academy this year, seven are girls — five more than last year’s participation. For Farahnaz Golroo, assistant professor of AI and data science, she’s been able to see the girls’ confidence grow as they participate in the program.

“I can see how great they are doing and they’re very motivated to learn more,” Golroo said. “ So I think this program is helping them a lot and I hope next year, and also if we can extend this program to five years, we can actually motivate and encourage more students.”

Jovan Lopez and Iliana Silva test out their robot dog. Photos by Jarleene Almenas

Joseph Novotny works on the coding for his team’s robot dog.

Farahnaz Golroo, assistant professor of AI and data science; student Sean Pierre; and Juan Calderon, B-CU assistant professor of computer science.

Liam and Aiden Chipungu work on the coding for their robot dog

YOUR TOWN

Michael’s ‘Ohana hosts annual Backpack Back to School Drive

Michael’s ‘Ohana is hosting its annual Backpack Back to School drive, partnering with the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Volunteer Network for the second year in a row.

This year, Michael’s ‘Ohana has a goal to collect 100 new backpacks, according to a press release. For every bag donated, the organization is also donating a new teddy bear to Devereaux Advanced Behavioral Health in honor of Kada’s Promise, a program that delivers the stuffed animals and blankets to foster care children, hospitals, homeless and women’s shelters throughout the country. The drive will run through July 18.

Gianna Capri, of Michael’s ‘Ohana, will also be representing Volusia County this month in Little Rock, Arkansas, at the National Miss Elementary America Pageant. In the press release, she said she looks forward to representing her hometown and bringing “Aloha to the State of Florida while honoring my Uncle Mike.”

Michael’s ‘Ohana was established in June 2021 after the death of Gianna’s uncle Michael Alberico, a long-time resident of Ormond Beach.

“He loved school and back to school shopping,” Gianna said. “I will be donating a red backpack, his favorite color, to the drive. There are so many students in our community in need of supplies. I really

hope we reach our goal of 100 new backpacks!”

The organization has been collecting backpacks and school supplies for foster children in Volusia and Flagler counties since June 2022, and has partnered with Devereaux Advanced Behavioral Health, which reaches close to home for Gianna because of her advocacy for those with special needs. Gianna also has a brother on the autism spectrum.

“The backpack drive is an essential component of the foster care programs we have here at Devereux,” said Nicole McAtee, LCSW Service Center director at Devereux Advance Behavioral Health. “It started as a couple backpacks for our older youth in middle or high school.

It’s grown to support many more children of all ages. Foster homes often need additional support when it comes to supporting the children in their home. We serve foster youth and those in danger of coming into foster care in several programs here at Devereux and Michael’s ‘Ohana has touched many lives with their ongoing support.”

Having the support of a volunteer network like ERAU’s has helped Michael’s ‘Ohana expand its reach in Volusia County, said Jennifer Capri, Gianna’s mother.

“The students work extremely hard in all aspects of their community service,” she said. “Michael’s ‘Ohana truly appreciates the ERAU Volunteer Networks support.”

The ERAU Volunteer Network is a student-led, university-sponsored group which participates in efforts to plan accessible service programming and learning opportunities for students.

Laura Maeda, ERAU student volunteer, said: “The mission of serving those with disabilities as well as supporting the academic achievement of young people is one area that we value — and the reason we are supporting Michael’s ‘Ohana.”

Meet OMAM’s featured art night family for June

Mia Sejnowski and her parents and grandparents were selected as Ormond Memorial Art Museum’s featured family from the museum’s June 7 Free Family Art Night event.

According to a statement from the museum, Mia was joined by her parents Melissa and Tom Sejnowski, and both sets of grandparents, Linda and Tom Bradley as well as Jill and

Michael Shepherd, for the event “and they loved every minute of it.”

OMAM’s Family Art Night takes place from 5:30-7 p.m. on most first Fridays of the month. All art supplies are provided, and the program is sponsored in part by the Women United Volusia Chapter.

A father’s heart and a surgeon’s hands: Dr. Wideroff in Palm Coast

For Dr. Matthew Wideroff, planting roots in Palm Coast felt like the right next step in both his career and family life. After years of surgical training and early practice outside the state, the Boca Raton native knew it was time to return to the place that first shaped him.

“I had to leave Florida to really understand how great it is to live here,” said Wideroff, general surgeon at AdventHealth Palm Coast. “Now that I’ve moved back and I watch my kids growing up here, I am reminded of how great of a childhood you can have, living in such a beautiful state.”

Wideroff was drawn to both the culture of the organization and the pace of life in the area.

“I like the community both within AdventHealth and Palm Coast,” he said. “It’s a good balance between getting a lot of good work done while sometimes slowing down to enjoy and appreciate life.”

Medicine runs in his family, and from an early age, he was certain he would follow the same path.

“Since I was young, I have always known I wanted to become a doctor,” said Wideroff. “In medical school, I solidified my interest in general surgery and have been focused on that ever since.”

Wideroff is a board-certified general surgeon who earned a medical degree from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine in Miami, Florida. He completed his residency in general surgery and fellowship in surgical critical care at the University of Iowa. For eight years, he served as a general surgeon at Monument Health in Rapid City, South Dakota.

He now finds himself practicing in a growing region with expanding needs and possibilities.

“Growth is always exciting. It means a constant supply of new opportunities. That is certainly the case in Palm Coast,” said Wideroff.

“Knowing that I am joining at such a time gives me a great deal of comfort that I am where I belong.”

For those considering a career in health care, Wideroff shares that the road in health care is well paved, but long and filled with challenges. However, there is a fit for those interested in health care roles.

“Anyone who can make it through and be successful serves as a role model for aspiring doctors and health care professionals,” he said.

“I have been fortunate to have many role models along the way and to serve as a role model from time to time as well.”

As a father, his purpose goes far beyond the operating room.

“Being a father is the ultimate expression of becoming a man,” he

Just Us Volusia raises over $2,700 for Volusia seniors

Local volunteers from Just Us Volusia raised over $2,700 in donations during a recent supply drive for the Council on Aging’s Aging with Dignity program.

The event, branded “Fill the Truck Bed,” was held in conjunction with a peaceful protest on May 31, according to a press release. The donation drive focused on collecting highneed items like incontinence products and protein drinks for elderly individuals in Volusia County.

“We wanted to do more than just

raise our voices. We wanted to show up with tangible support,” said Dorothy Butala, community aid lead for Just Us Volusia in the press release.

“The response was overwhelming.” An anonymous donor contributed $1,000, and the value of tangible donations exceeded $1,700.

“I am so blown away by the goodness and generosity of so many,” said Doreen Willett, community engagement liaison with the Council on Aging. “You are truly making such an impact on the community.”

said. “You never regret the time you spend with your children. Savoring those moments, giving them your love and helping them achieve their happiness is the formula I strive for.”

This Father’s Day, Wideroff continues to build a life of service, purpose and connection: in a place that reminds him every day how much the right setting can shape a meaningful future.

Halifax Health celebrates over 300 cancer survivors at annual ‘Celebrate Life’

Over 300 cancer survivors and family members gathered for the Halifax Health — Cancer Center for Hope 2025 Celebrate Life event at EmbryRiddle Aeronautical University on Saturday, June 7. The annual event held in June, National Cancer Survivor Month, recognizes those who are currently

in treatment and those that have fought the disease.

“Each year, it’s a true privilege to celebrate our survivors at this annual breakfast,” said Julie Roth, service line administrator at Halifax Health — Cancer Center for Hope. “Hearing our patients share their journeys is incredibly moving, and we’re deeply grateful to walk alongside them in their stories of strength and hope.”

The event included remarks from the Cancer Center’s benefactor, Charles L. Grant, also a cancer survivor, and testimonials from other survivors including Elizabeth Patterson, Brittany Taylor and Donna Victory. A partner in the Arts in Medicine program with Cancer Center for Hope, The Hub on Canal, an art gallery in New Smyrna Beach, was present to provide an art project for attendees, and 40 attendees were gifted plant centerpieces donated by Lindley’s Garden Center.

“There are more than 18 million cancer survivors in the United States alone,” Roth said. “This community reminds us that life does not stop with a diagnosis — it continues with purpose, strength and the power to inspire others. Their stories are a testament to resilience, and they represent the hope we strive to share every day.”

To learn more about the programs and treatments offered by Halifax Health – Cancer Center for Hope, visit halifaxhealth.org/cancercare or call 386-425-HOPE.

Send community news releases to Jarleene Almenas at jarleene@ observerlocalnews.com.

Doreen Willett, community engagement liaison with the Council on Aging, and Dorothy Butala, community aid lead for Just Us Volusia, unload donations collected at the peaceful protest event on Saturday, May 31.

Just Us Volusia members Betsy and Steve W., Dorothy Butala and Kelly Czajkowski.

The event included remarks from the Cancer Center’s benefactor, Charles L. Grant, a cancer survivor, and testimonials from other survivors.

Mia Sejnowski (front, center) and her family. Courtesy photos

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University flight students Peter Stewart Jr. and Robert Villa hold flyers for Michael’s ‘Ohana’s backpack drive.

Beauty of the league

Coach Joe Giddens’ summer basketball league gives boys, girls time to prepare — and to get competitive.

MICHELE MEYERS CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Joe Giddens’ summer basketball league is back in action at the Vince Carter Athletic Center.

In his seventh year organizing the event, the Mainland High School basketball coach has brought back girls’ teams and, for the first time, has added a middle school league.

Giddens coaches the Hinson Middle School Hurricanes basketball team. This year, they won the Volusia County Championship — the first time in school history. He said that after seeing all the talent at that age level, he wanted to start a league for them, and discussed it with Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry.

“With me coaching middle school, we won the championship and I saw a lot of good sixth and seventh graders— even guys going from fifth to sixth grade,” he said. “I really wished I could do a middle school league. I had a vision and talked with Mayor Henry. We just said ‘let’s do it’.”

He set up the league to include girls and boys going into the sixth, seventh and eighth grades. Giddens held a draft and followed up with team rosters.

Girls teams were part of the summer league when Brandon Stewart coached at Mainland prior to accepting a similar position at St. Thomas Aquinas in Fort Lauderdale in 2024. Zykia McNair was his assistant coach and took over as head coach last season. She said she and Giddens mutually decided to add the girls back to the summer league schedule even before she got the job.

“If I got the job, we were going to get connected even more with the community and start hosting events,” she said. “And, of course, on the business side we need to do what we have to do to make money for our program.”

During her interviews for

the coaching position, she expressed concern that the team had become disconnected from the community and thought bringing back the summer league for girls would nurture that connection.

“I want to keep it pumping,” she said about game attendance. “I remember when we had games at Mainland — the bleachers were filled. I want to get back to that. It’s important for us to be connected with everybody and be connected to the community.”

McNair said the summer camp is for the community, but for her, it is also personal and about making a statement. This is the year of redemption, she said, and she aims for her team to be a challenge for others this upcoming season.

The Mainland girls’ team consists predominantly of underclassmen and returning players — rising sophomores Brooklin Cooper and Tanaijah Martin and rising senior Natalie Williams. McNair said all have shown leadership qualities this summer.

Giddens said his league is a good place for coaches to see the talent before the season starts and for players to face a variety of competitive teams. This year, girls’ teams travel from Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Flagler, Port Orange, Sanford and Daytona Beach for the summer league.

Boys’ teams play on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Calvary Christian, Deltona, Flagler Palm Coast, Mainland, Matanzas, Pedro Menendez, Pine Ridge and Seabreeze battled each other on Thursday, June 12.

The Sandcrabs won 39-27 against Calvary Christian then immediately played and won against the Deltona Wolves. Seabreeze head coach Ray Gaines said the players who won today were the firstyear varsity players who were “thrown into the fire” last year

“It’s a lot on me but it’s worth it. If I can change one or two kids’ lives and keep kids off the streets by playing sports, I’m going to do it. Someone did it for me, I’m just returning the favor.”

JOE GIDDENS

when four seniors transferred.

“What we talk about all the time is just playing hard and competing,” he said. “What we’re trying to do is simulate a regular season. We’re trying to get them to compete at a high level and that’s why they won today. They’re competing.”

Gaines said their goal was to win 16 games and lose seven. They are currently 10-3 for the summer and every game they have lost has been close.

“I’m just super proud of how hard they play,” he said.

“I told them we have a special team — we just have to learn how to compete. No matter who their opponent is out here, we have to play at a certain level so we treat every game like it’s a state championship game.”

Gaines said Jeremiah Outler is a player who does everything — rebounds, scores, blocks shots and steals. Outler is a rising junior and said he did not start playing basketball until the eighth grade.

“Seeing the court comes naturally to me — even my dad is surprised by this,” he said. “I think this league is really good. You can show what you got and compete until the regular season comes when you really show what you have. The benefit (of the league) is you get better every day.”

Mainland alley-ooped their way to a 86-45 win over Pine Ridge without their top five guys. The young team comprising of rising freshmen, sophomores and juniors were led by assistant coach, 23-year-old Jalen Reuss who began coaching with the Buccaneers last season.

“Half the team was middle schoolers and the other half were transfers,” he said. “I think we pose a lot of threats. I think as long as we stay composed and continue to be ourselves and have fun, it’s going to be hard for a lot of teams to match what we have.”

Reuss, a math teacher at DeLand High School, said he brings a lot of energy, youth and collegiate-level playing experience to the team.

“Being able to share my experiences with guys who are truthfully more talented than

I was at their age, I think it changes things a lot for them,” he said.

Sophomore Ethan Figueroa is Mainland’s point guard and shooting guard. He said they always practice hard and bring that intensity to the games.

“I love playing this game,” he said. “I love playing it with my brothers on the court. As long as I can keep playing this game after this league and stay healthy, it will mean the world to me.”

Rivals Flagler Palm Coast and Matanzas were the final matchup of the night. In a flurry of flagrant fouls, steals, blocks and dunks, the Bulldogs reigned supreme over the Pirates with a 51-49 win.

Matanzas assistant coach Travis Boone said prior to the game, he told his players not to focus on the rivalry, but to work on getting better as a team, cohesiveness and to understand the offense being implemented this year.

“Teaching them how to get out and run the lanes the right way and be able to find the open teammate is what we’re trying to do’” he said. “I’m preaching this summer and all year — pass up a good shot for a great shot.”

Boone said he is appreciative of the summer league because it is a good time to give all his players court experience.

“Coach Eric (Guerrero) and I are trying to build a program where there’s no lack in whoever we put on the floor,” he said. “So when we take one kid out and put another one in, we don’t skip a beat. They all know their roles and what they’re supposed to do per position.”

Giddens said the beauty of the league is that it keeps kids out of trouble.

“It’s a lot on me but it’s worth it,” he said. “If I can change one or two kids’ lives and keep kids off the streets by playing sports, I’m going to do it. Someone did it for me, I’m just returning the favor.”

Things got a little rough between rival teams Matanzas and Flagler Palm Coast in a summer basketball league game.

The Mainland boys basketball team put on an aerial show in the game against Pine Ridge.

Rival teams Matanzas and Flagler Palm Coast go up for a rebound in a summer basketball league game.

Seabreeze rising junior Jeremiah Outler (center) rebounds during a game.

Seabreeze shoots against Cavalry Christian.

Mainland drives to the basket.

Mainland girls battle Spruce Creek in a summer basketball league game.

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TRIBUTES

Paul H. Levesque

November 6, 1941-May 7, 2025

Paul H. Levesque died on May 7, 2025 at his Florida home. He was devoted to his lifelong love and wife of 63 years, Claire, whom he met when they were young teenagers. Together, they built a life filled with family and friends, great food, and world travel. With an easy confidence, Paul had a flair for conversation and the ability to connect with people that left a lasting impact on those who knew him.

In business, Paul forged his own path with intelligence, grit, and loads of charm. He started out selling magazines door-to-door at 17, then wrote and sold ads for The Standard-Times of New Bedford -- but found a true calling in radio. At 26, he became the country’s youngest radio station general manager. During his career, Paul managed stations in Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island, and was appointed to oversee J.J. Taylor Companies’ national radio group. He served on the National Association of Broadcasters Radio Board of Directors. Paul and Claire ultimately purchased and ran their own radio stations on Cape Cod. One of his colleagues aptly called him an “icon.”

After selling the radio stations, Paul retired at 57,

remaining an avid investor and consumer of financial news. He and Claire traveled extensively. They even put up a map to keep track of where they had been and their next destination. Paul loved talking with people wherever they went, often forging bonds that lasted for life. Claire and Paul enjoyed entertaining, opening their home to guests for cocktails and dinner, special celebrations, and multi-day visits. A lifelong card player, Paul regularly hosted poker nights, stocking the house with each player’s favorite beverage and snack.

Paul and Claire loved cooking and eating all kinds of food. With adventurous palates and keen interest in new cuisines, they sought out authentic local dishes everywhere they traveled. The question “what’s for dinner?” would result in their cookbook collection being strewn across the kitchen table as they chose a new dish to try.

Over the years, Paul served on homeowner boards in their communities. He was a devoted reader, an ardent swimmer who relished having a pool at their homes, and a fan of naps. Paul was also known for making late night phone calls, leaving funny voicemails with impromptu songs. Paul is deeply missed and

his memory will be cherished. He was born on November 6, 1941 to his now-late parents Hervey and Alice, and grew up in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Paul is survived by Claire. He was immensely proud of their children: Kevin and late partner Denise; Christine and husband David; and Timothy and fiancé Tatiane. Paul adored his brothers, sisters- and brother-in-law: the late Gerard “Gerry” and wife Janet; Roger and late wife Cynthia; and Augustus “Butch.” He leaves behind his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Sean; Zachery and wife Elizabeth; Marisa and husband James; Timothy; Tayla; James Jr.; and Jace, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are private. Donations are requested to the American Diabetes Association: P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023, USA or via diabetes.org.

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