Palm Coast Observer 6-11-26

PALM COAST

NEWS BRIEFS

Body found after RV fire in Bunnell

Bunnell Police Department officers and detectives are investigating a fire involving a recreational vehicle on Lake Drive in Bunnell.

On Tuesday, June 2, at 11:47 p.m., a neighbor called 9-1-1 to report their neighbor’s RV was engulfed in flames.

Bunnell Police Department officers, Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputies, Flagler County Fire Rescue, and the Palm Coast Fire Department responded to the scene and found the recreational vehicle engulfed in flames. After firefighters extinguished the fire, responders discovered the remains of one deceased person inside the vehicle.

The deceased person has not been positively identified due to the condition of the remains. The Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Medical Examiner’s Office are assisting with the investigation.

Anyone with information

COPS CORNER

JUNE 2

TRADING CARDS AND A TACKLE

6:50 p.m. — 100 block of Cypress Point Parkway, Palm Coast Petit theft. A Palm Coast man was arrested after deputies say he attempted to flee with stolen trading cards and sports cards.

related is encouraged to contact the Bunnell Police Department at 386-600-7954.

Daytona Beach man sentenced in 2025 child sex crime case

A Daytona Beach man arrested in May 2025 after he committed a sex act in front of a young child and recorded it has been convicted and sentenced to 180 days in jail.

On June 3, Timothy Williams IV, 27, pleaded guilty to lewd or lascivious exhibition. Following Williams’ plea agreement, Circuit Judge Dawn Nichols sentenced him to 180 days in jail. He will also be required to register as a sex offender, will be on sex offender probation for 10 years after his release from jail, and is prohibited from having contact with the child victim.

The investigation that resulted in Williams’ arrest was led by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Cyber Crimes/Internet Crimes Against Children Unit following a Cyber Tip reported by the FBI and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. FCSO was assisted

in the investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Northeast Florida Inter-Agency Child Exploitation and Persons Trafficking Task Force.

Williams is currently being held at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, where he will serve his jail sentence.

Palm Coast man engaged in sexual relationship with minor convicted

Brandon Raymond, 20, of Palm Coast, who was arrested in November 2025 after an investigation by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office revealed he was in a sexual relationship with a minor, has been convicted and sentenced.

On June 3, Raymond pleaded guilty to two counts of lewd or lascivious battery.

Following Raymond’s plea agreement, Circuit Judge Dawn Nichols sentenced him to four years in state prison. He will also be required to register as a sex offender and will be on sex offender probation for 11 years after his release from prison.

Raymond is currently being held at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility awaiting transfer to Florida Department of Corrections custody.

Bunnell Police chief completes FBI executive leadership course

Bunnell Police Chief David Brannon recently completed the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Command Course, an executive leadership program designed for law enforcement leaders who serve agencies with 50 or fewer sworn officers.

Brannon attended the course with 51 law enforcement executives from across the United States. The program brought together chiefs and executive leaders who face many of the same challenges common to smaller agencies, including staffing limitations, budget constraints, officer wellness, public trust, organizational leadership, and the demand to deliver professional police services with limited resources.

The FBI National Command

Course provides advanced instruction, peer collaboration, and leadership development for executives responsible for guiding their agencies through complex public safety issues. The course also gives participants direct access to experienced instructors, national-level resources, and fellow law enforcement leaders from across the country. The week-long training course is provided by the FBI at no cost to the attendees or their respective agency.

“Small agencies do not have small missions,” Brannon said. “We carry the same duty to protect, lead, adapt, and build trust as any agency in the country. In many cases, we do it with fewer people, tighter budgets, and a closer daily connection to the communities we serve. This course strengthened my commitment to keep growing as a leader and to keep building a police department our community trusts and respects.”

Court hands down sentences in two Flagler child sex crime cases

Two men arrested last year

following separate Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Major Case Unit investigations into sex offenses involving minors have been convicted and sentenced in recent days. Josiah Morales, 19, of Palm Coast, was arrested in August 2025 after Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Major Case Unit detectives determined he had sex multiple times with a minor. On June 3, Morales pled guilty to child abuse and was sentenced to five years on probation without the possibility of early termination. Morales is also required to follow certain sex offender restrictions.

Jordan Pittmon, 27, of Daytona Beach, was arrested in February 2025 following an eight-month investigation into the sexual battery of a 14-year-old victim. On June 3, Pittmon pled no contest to lewd or lascivious battery and traveling to meet a minor. Following Pittmon’s plea agreement, he was adjudicated guilty and sentenced him to 85 1/2 months, or just over seven years, in state prison. He will also be required to register as a sex offender for life and will be on sex offender probation for five years after his release from prison.

As deputies moved in to detain him, the man allegedly threw some of the merchandise into the air and ran from the front entrance. A deputy chased him on foot, repeatedly ordering him to stop. He was eventually taken into custody after a brief foot pursuit.

Store representatives advised they wished to press charges.

Most of the stolen items were trading cards and sports cards. Deputies also recov-

According to an arrest report, loss prevention employees contacted law enforcement after observing a man concealing merchandise inside a retail store. Deputies waited with store employees until the suspect passed all points of sale and exited the business.

ered two knives from the man’s possession, though investigators determined the knives belonged to him and were not stolen. The knives were entered into evidence. He was taken to jail.

JUNE 3 A SOCK SURPRISE

Time not listed in report —

5100 block of State Road 100, Palm Coast Petit theft. A Palm Coast man was arrested after deputies linked him to a shoplifting incident involving characterthemed socks.

According to an arrest report, a loss prevention officer contacted deputies after

spotting a suspected shoplifter inside a retail store. The suspect was already known to store personnel because of a theft reported the previous day.

Surveillance footage showed the man entering the girls’ hosiery section, concealing merchandise and then moving to the boys’ department, where he gathered additional socks before hiding them on his person. He later exited the store without paying, passing all points of sale. While the footage was being reviewed, deputies located a man matching the suspect’s description nearby. He was detained and identified as the

person seen in the surveillance video.

A search of the man’s belongings uncovered socks with store tags still attached. According to the report, he admitted the socks had been stolen from the store.

JUNE 4

911, THAT’S NOT AN EMERGENCY

1:18 a.m. — 300 block of Timberline Trail, Ormond Beach Misuse of 911 services. A 52-year-old Ormond Beach woman is facing a misdemeanor charge after making 171 calls to 911 in a three-week period. According to a police re-

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port, the most recent call surrounded a complaint that all her neighbors were “bickering” in the area. She called 911 four times that night, with the first call occurring at 1:18 a.m. and the fourth at 3:05 a.m. The report notes that during her third call, the dispatcher informed her that law enforcement would come to her house if she kept calling the emergency line, “to which she was very unhappy about and disconnected the call.” During her fourth and final call that night, she made “nonsensical statements” about Christians and Pagans. Police reported the woman has at least one prior charge for misusing the 911 system. As police were writing the report, the woman called 911 a fifth time — at 3:42 a.m., to report more bickering.

ONE MAN’S TRASH ... 4:30 p.m. — 600 block of North Ridgewood Avenue, Ormond Beach Theft. Police responded to an Ormond Beach home after two citizens reported an unknown suspect had stolen their trash cans. The residents said that the suspect walked onto their property sometime in the early afternoon and emptied six of their trash cans into a dumpster in the driveway. The suspect then took all of the trash cans, along with two coolers, a yard cart and a package that had been delivered to the front door. The value of the items stolen totaled $999, according to the police report. The residents wished to pursue charges.

CHARLES GAMBARO, PALM COAST CITY COUNCILMAN

Opportunity to shape the future

RICH CARROLL MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER

Palm Coast City Councilman Charles Gambaro recently joined Observer Now to discuss some of the biggest issues facing the city, including data centers, westward expansion, infrastructure funding, property tax reform and his campaign for Florida’s 6th U.S. Congressional District seat.

A retired Army brigadier general and former Flagler County School Board member, Gambaro was appointed to the Palm Coast City Council in 2024. The following transcript has been edited for length and clarity.

What’s your take on a proposed moratorium on data centers?

It’s a really important topic, not only for our community but for our state.

The reality is there are all sorts of different types of data centers. Some use tremendous amounts of water and power. Others use refrigerant cooling systems. Some use solar power.

I’ve always believed the use of the word “moratorium” can discourage economic development. I’m very proud of the work this council is doing to drive economic development, but in order to attract the right businesses we need the infrastructure, the land and the facilities necessary to support them.

That’s why I supported Councilman Ty Miller’s approach. Let’s define what types of facilities are a good fit for Palm Coast. Let’s lay out the facts and move forward with an ordinance through the normal legislative process.

Right now residents are under Phase III water restrictions due to drought conditions. Does that strengthen the argument for slowing down or pausing projects like data centers?

I think it means we need to evaluate the issue carefully, but it doesn’t mean we stop planning for the future. We’ve made some difficult decisions as a city regarding our water and wastewater systems. We’ve invested heavily in our water and wastewater treatment facilities, and we’re exploring additional well sites as part of our capital improvement planning.

Not every data center has the same impact. For example, the cable landing station project involving DC Blox and Google uses refrigerant cooling rather than large quantities of water. Certainly, current water levels are something we have to take into consideration. We need to be good stewards of our resources. But planning for future growth and economic opportunities doesn’t stop simply

because we’re experiencing a drought.

How do you balance economic development with preserving Palm Coast’s quality of life?

That’s exactly why we have a comprehensive plan and why we’re updating the land development code.

Last year we approved the comprehensive plan. Now we’re moving into the next phase, which is implementing those policies through the land development code update.

There are safeguards built into that process. We want to preserve the natural beauty that makes Palm Coast attractive in the first place. That’s why people move here. That’s why people want to raise their families here. At the same time, we have opportunities for economic development. We have companies interested in locating here. We have property owners interested in creating employment centers.

But economic development requires two things: land and

One concern residents continue to raise is water.

Can Palm Coast support westward expansion?

The first thing people need to understand is that development doesn’t move forward unless capacity exists and permits are approved.

The St. Johns River Water Management District isn’t going to approve projects that don’t have the necessary resources.

What’s often overlooked is that many of Palm Coast’s future well sites are located within the westward expansion area itself.

As we continue implementing our capital improvement plan, those resources become part of the city’s long-term strategy.

On the wastewater side, we’re already investing in expansion projects.

I remember being appointed to the council

buildings. It also requires confidence. Businesses want to invest in communities where leadership is stable and focused on results.

One of the biggest obstacles to economic development is uncertainty. We’ve had some speed bumps over the last year, but I believe this council is committed to working together and focusing on results for residents.

You were very supportive of the Loop Road project during the groundbreaking ceremony. Why do you see it as such an important project?

The Loop Road is much more than just a road.

We’re fortunate the state provided approximately $126 million for this project. It’s going to connect with State Road 2209 and create a significant transportation corridor extending south from the Jacksonville area.

shortly before Hurricane Milton. Wastewater Treatment Plant 1 was designed for about 6.8 million gallons per day, but during the storm nearly 20 million gallons moved through the system because of infiltration issues.

That’s one reason newer developments are being designed differently.

We’re expanding treatment capacity. Wastewater Treatment Plant 1 is being upgraded to approximately 10.4 million gallons per day. Wastewater Treatment Plant 2 also provides additional capacity.

Nobody has told us we’re out of water. We have a plan. We have identified future resources. We have projects underway.

That’s why I disagree with the idea that westward expansion can’t happen because of water concerns.

Road maintenance has become a major issue.

Councilman Ty Miller said the city is “losing the battle.” Do you agree?

I do. The city has made investments in road maintenance, including microsurfacing programs and reconstruction projects. If you drive on roads like Belle Terre Parkway and Whiteview Parkway, you’ll see examples of improvements we’ve already made.

But we still have a significant funding gap.

The reality is that microsurfacing is only effective when roads are above a certain condition level. Once roads deteriorate beyond that point, they require more expensive repairs or reconstruction.

That’s where we find ourselves. We’re going to have to make difficult decisions during the budget process.

This project creates tremendous opportunities for Palm Coast. It’s going to support economic development. It’s going to improve connectivity. It’s also going to become a centerpiece of future westward expansion discussions.

I think Palm Coast has an opportunity right now to shape its future.

When ITT developed Palm Coast decades ago, they created the original vision for the community. Now it’s our turn. We have an opportunity to help determine what Palm Coast 2.0 looks like.

Residents consistently tell us they want smart growth. To me, smart growth means infrastructure comes first.

For too long we’ve been playing catch-up. The Loop Road helps us get ahead.

This road will help connect future development with major transportation corridors and make Palm Coast more competitive economically.

Is Rayonier contributing enough toward infrastructure costs?

I want to recognize Community Development Director John Zobler and his team because they’ve done an outstanding job negotiating on behalf of the city.

From where these discussions began to where they are now, there’s been a lot of movement.

At the same time, we have to recognize that property owners have rights too. Rayonier owns a substantial amount of land. Their interests matter just as the city’s interests matter.

Ultimately, if our professional staff comes forward and recommends an agreement, that’s a strong indication they’ve reached a point where both sides benefit.

The goal has to be a win for Palm Coast residents and a win for the property owner.

Do we use reserves? Do we identify new funding sources? Do we tackle the problem in phases?

What I know is that we can no longer ignore it. Just as we had to address wastewater infrastructure, we have to address road infrastructure.

Some residents have suggested bringing back a half-cent sales tax. Is that an option?

Historically, some infrastructure projects were funded through a half-cent sales tax. Whether residents support that approach today remains to be seen.

We’ve already asked residents to absorb some difficult decisions over the past year, so any discussion about additional revenue sources has to be handled carefully.

But infrastructure costs don’t disappear. Eventually we have to determine how we’re going to pay for them.

Florida lawmakers recently approved a proposal that could eventually reduce property taxes. What’s your view?

I think there are some good ideas within the proposal.

For homesteaded properties, I understand the argument. Homeowners have faced rising costs across the board.

We already provide exemptions to certain groups, such as 100% disabled veterans, because they’ve earned that benefit through their service and sacrifice.

Where I become more cautious is when we start talking about commercial properties, vacation rentals and second homes.

Local governments still need revenue to provide services.

Many residents would welcome some tax relief. I think that’s why you’re seeing strong public support. The challenge is ensuring local governments can continue providing services while also giving residents some relief.

That’s where policymakers need to be careful.

You’ve announced your campaign for Florida’s 6th Congressional District. What motivated that decision?

First and foremost, I believe the person representing a district in Washington should live in the district. I also believe leadership matters. Members of Congress are supposed to serve constituents, solve problems and be present in the communities they represent.

You’ve been very critical of Congressman Randy Fine. Why?

Our current congressman lives about 150 miles away. When he leaves Washington, he doesn’t come home to this district. He goes home to Melbourne Beach.

One of the things that motivated me was Memorial Day. For veterans, Memorial Day is a sacred day. It’s a day to honor those who never came home. I felt there were missed opportunities to show the level of respect and engagement that our veterans deserve.

Ultimately, this campaign isn’t about Randy Fine. It’s about providing voters with a choice. I believe leadership is about service, and I believe the district deserves a representative who is present, engaged and focused on local issues.

What would be your top priorities if elected?

Infrastructure would be at the top of the list. Infrastructure drives economic development. Economic development creates jobs. Jobs improve quality of life. Hospitals need support. Affordable housing remains a concern.

One of the first things I would focus on is identifying opportunities to bring federal resources back to the district for infrastructure projects. Growing up in Florida, I watched projects like State Road 417 transform Central Florida. Those types of investments create longterm opportunities for communities.

How has your military career shaped your approach to public service? Leadership isn’t about titles. It isn’t about being the loudest person in the room. It’s about serving the people around you and accomplishing the mission.

I’ve also spent seven years working in Washington, including time at the National Security Council, the Pentagon and within the intelligence community. I understand how the federal government operates and how to get things done. At the end of the day, my family and I live here. We care deeply about this community. We care about the future of Palm Coast, Flagler County and the entire 6th Congressional District. That’s ultimately why I’m running for Congress.

Charles Gambaro. Courtesy photo

Mayor calls for austerity budget as tax revenue slows down

City of Palm Coast prepares for potential property tax changes.

RICH CARROLL

MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER

Palm Coast officials are beginning preparations for what could be a difficult budget cycle, with Mayor Mike Norris calling for an “austerity budget” approach and advocating for a full rollback millage rate as city leaders face slowing property value growth and uncertainty surrounding potential statewide property tax changes.

During the June 9 budget workshop, Norris said residents want to know what steps city government is taking to prepare for possible financial challenges and revealed he has asked staff to explore ways to reduce spending before considering new revenue sources.

“We have to start prepping now,” Norris said.

He also said the city should pursue a full rollback millage rate if possible, arguing that residents deserve tax relief while the city adjusts to a changing financial landscape.

“The state is doing this for a reason because we have to be more conservative in the way we govern our city,” Norris said.

A rollback rate is the property tax rate that would generate the same amount of revenue from existing properties as the previous year, excluding revenue generated from new construction.

The discussion came as city staff presented an early outlook for the fiscal year 2027

budget, which shows Palm Coast continuing to generate additional property tax revenue, but at a much slower pace than during the rapid growth years that followed the COVID-19 pandemic.

Gwen Ragsdale, the city’s budget and procurement manager, told council members that maintaining the current millage rate of 4.0893 mills would generate approximately $44.7 million in ad valorem tax revenue during fiscal year 2027. That represents an increase of roughly $1.5 million over the current fiscal year.

The city’s preliminary taxable value certification from the Property Appraiser’s Office shows overall taxable values increasing by 3.58% for fiscal year 2027. New construction accounts for much of that growth, with taxable values from new development increasing approximately 4.83%. Existing properties, however, experienced a decline in taxable value of about 1.25%.

Ragsdale said the modest increase in revenues will require city officials to take a closer look at spending requests as they prepare next year’s budget.

“Developing the fiscal year 2027 budget to meet community needs will be particularly challenging this year since we are not experiencing the same level of growth in revenue as in previous years,” Ragsdale said.

The city is currently reviewing budget requests with department directors and City Manager Mike McGlothlin and plans to provide a more detailed budget presentation in July after receiving final

Existing properties experienced a decline in taxable value of about 1.25% this year.

“We have to be more conservative in the way we govern our city.”

MIKE NORRIS, mayor

taxable value figures from the Property Appraiser’s Office.

Adding to the uncertainty is the possibility of significant changes to Florida’s property tax structure.

Councilman Charles Gambaro said city leaders should begin preparing now for potential impacts while identifying projects that can be completed with currently available resources.

“What are the things we can get done while we have the resources to do it?” Gambaro asked.

He urged staff to continue working with the Property Appraiser’s Office to determine potential impacts before the city begins making major financial decisions.

Vice Mayor Theresa Pontieri said she reviewed Palm Coast budget records dating back to 2021 and found the city experienced significant revenue growth during the post-pandemic housing boom as thousands of resi -

dents relocated to Florida and new construction surged.

“We had a ton of people move here. We had a lot of new construction,” Pontieri said.

Pontieri said the influx of residents generated substantial new revenues for the city but city leaders must now evaluate spending levels in light of slower growth in both housing and construction activity.

As part of that effort, Pontieri requested additional financial information from staff, including a breakdown of reserve funds, appropriated fund balances, grant-funded programs and the status of Holland Park settlement funds. She said the information would help council mem-

Fire engine dedicated

The Palm Coast Fire Department hosted a Gold Star Dedication Ceremony on May 23, honoring the life and sacrifice of Army Sgt. James M. Treber by dedicating Fire Engine 26 in his memory.

Held at Fire Station 26, the ceremony brought together Palm Coast Fire Department personnel, Gold

bers better understand the city’s financial position before making budget decisions.

The workshop also highlighted Palm Coast’s dependence on property taxes as its primary revenue source.

According to the presentation, ad valorem taxes account for approximately 63% of the city’s general fund revenue. Public safety, including fire services and the city’s contract with the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, consumes the largest share of the general fund budget at approximately 49%. Public Works accounts for roughly 16%, while Community Development receives about 14%.

Despite the concerns raised during the workshop, officials emphasized that Palm Coast remains in a stable financial position and continues to maintain one of the lower millage rates among similarly sized Florida cities.

The City Council is scheduled to receive a detailed general fund budget presentation on July 14, followed by consideration of the proposed maximum millage rate on July 21. Public budget hearings are expected to take place in September before adoption of the final fiscal year 2027 budget.

Star families, veterans, and community members in remembrance of Sgt. Treber’s service to the nation and ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan, a city press release stated.

Since 2021, the Palm Coast Fire Department has continued the tradition of dedicating fire apparatus in honor of Gold Star recipients as a lasting tribute to their courage, sacrifice, and legacy.

Gas prices drop

As the U.S. continues to lower is petroleum stockpile, gas prices continued to fall in Florida.

The auto club AAA put the average gallon of gas in Florida at $3.78 on Monday, 26 cents less than a week earlier and 73 cents lower than on May 21, before U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said “significant progress” had been made on a potential ceasefire and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

The national average of $4.16 a gallon on Monday has declined 16 cents over the week and 40 cents since May 21.

To contain the surge in pump prices since the start of the war with Iran on Feb. 28, the U.S. has continued to draw down its strategic reserves stored across Texas and Louisiana. Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, told CBN News the reserves are close to the lowest levels since the early 1980s.

“There’s just no telling what the next crisis could be beyond this, but the U.S. is going to have a significantly curtailed ability to insulate itself from any future supply shocks with a strategic reserve that is approaching the lowest level since it was filled up,” De Haan told CBN News on Thursday. Diesel in Florida declined 23 cents the past week to $4.90 a gallon. The national average went down 13 cents to $5.32 a gallon in the same time. For electric vehicles, the cost per kilowatt-hour at Florida charging stations stood unchanged over the week at 41 cents.

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Palm Coast Mayor Mike Norris. File photo by Sierra Williams

School Board candidates debate school choice, budgetary challenges

The American Association of University Women Flagler Branch hosted the candidate forum.

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The seven Flagler County School Board candidates gathered inside a historic building on June 9 and debated how to tackle current and future challenges facing public education.

The American Association of University Women Flagler County Branch hosted the forum — the School Board candidates’ second in a week — inside the 1926 Vault Room Museum at the historic Flagler County courthouse. Flagler Schools is leasing the rest of the building from the county to house several programs.

The Vault Room, now a Fla-

gler County Historical Society showpiece, served as the courthouse’s record storage room from 1926 to 2007. The forum had limited attendance with the room seating just 50, but the forum was also streamed and can be viewed on the “AAUWFlagler” Facebook page.

The School Board candidates are Cathy Moon and Jill Woolbright in District 1, Will Furry and Ron Wood in District 2 and Christy Chong, Ron Long and Trevor Tucker in District 3. The races are nonpartisan and county residents can vote for all School Board districts. All of the candidates have satisfied their full qualifying requirements to be on the ballot. At least two of the races will be decided in the Aug. 18 primary with the winner required to receive over 50% of the vote.

Rhona DiCamillo, the president of the League of Women Voters of Jacksonville First Coast, moderated the forum.

The AAUW local chapter posed three questions for the candidates:

„ How would you establish educational goals so every student regardless of ability has the same opportunity for success?

„ With increasing numbers choosing home school and other alternatives to public education, and the districts seeing enrollment declines that impact funding, what strategies would you support to strengthen public schools and address these budget challenges?

„ What are the key issues facing public education in Flagler County?

In answering the first question, Wood, Chong, Long and Moon said schools need to identify students’ interests at an early age.

“We need to look at every student through the lens of risk,” Wood said. “How do you support them in the moment so they can get through today

YOUR TOWN

Ed Foundation raises $125,000 to support Flagler Schools

The Flagler County Education Foundation raised a record-breaking $125,000 through its Annual Dinner on June 6, at the Hammock Beach Resort. The funds raised will directly power the Foundation’s critical “Make It Happen” initiative and a robust portfolio of educational programs spanning all Flagler Schools. The event brought together

and feel good about themselves?”

Furry, the District 2 incumbent, said schools should focus on students’ strengths rather than weaknesses. Tucker, who previously served on the board for 12 years, said electives should be replaced if poorly attended. Woolbright, a retired teacher who served on the board from 2020 to 2022, said teachers need to build relationships with students and parents.

In answering the second question, Tucker said private school and home school students should be required to take the same standardized tests that public school students have to take. “It’s hard to compare,” he said, “when there are no comparable statistics.” Wood said there should be more accountability for families that receive vouchers.

Long said that in speaking with parents who pulled their students out of pub -

hundreds of local business leaders, community advocates, and educators for an evening of targeted philanthropy.

A significant portion of the dinner’s proceeds is designated for FCEF’s “Make It Happen” initiative. This specialized program acts as an emergency safety net for the district, addressing immediate, unique, and challenging barriers that students, teachers, and families face.

“The Annual Dinner is more than a celebration; it is the financial engine that allows us to step in when our schools and families need us most,” said Teresa Rizzo, executive eirector of the Flagler County Education Foundation. “When a student faces a crisis at

lic schools, their top reasons were bullying and safety, not curriculum. He said realigning positions to add more school resource officers would help solve that problem, and eliminating many positions that were added despite a flat enrollment would address budget concerns.

Chong, the School Board’s chair, said she supports school choice and believes Flagler Schools is the best choice.

Woolbright agreed that the district provides the best choice after losing its way during COVID “when the whole country lost its way.” She said most families have come back, “and we want them back.”

Moon, who has handled large budgets while working in government positions, said she has the right skill set to handle financial challenges.

Furry noted that Flagler Schools “has not seen the exodus that other school districts have,” and that under the current board the district

home, the ‘Make It Happen’ fund ensures they don’t fall through the cracks. The generosity shown at this dinner guarantees that we can say ‘yes’ to families in their toughest moments.”

Beyond emergency relief, the dinner serves as the primary funding catalyst for innovative academic and mentorship programs implemented district-wide. Visit www.flagleredfounda tion.org.

Fourth of July celebration features parade and fireworks

The 2026 United Flagler Fourth Celebration kicks off at

has built up its general reserve fund to over $10 million. As for key issues facing public schools, Moon said districts need to bring home rule back. “Tallahassee treats districts from Jacksonville to Miami all the same, and we’re not like Miami,” she said. Chong said with planned development, the district will need to prepare to build new schools. “A new high school is $200 million, so how are we going to prepare?” she asked.

Wood said the board needs to exemplify good leadership. “Right now the culture of the board is broken,” he said, adding that is the reason he chose to run. Tucker said stability is key, When a superintendent has been in place for three to four years, district scores shoot up, he said.

Furry and Chong agreed, noting that under Superintendent LaShakia Moore’s leadership the district is projected to regain its A grade this year.

6 p.m. Friday, July 3, with First Friday at Veterans Park in Flagler Beach. The Stars and Stripes Parade, presented by the Rotary Club of Flagler Beach, follows at 9 a.m. Saturday, July 4. The parade will follow its traditional route along A1A in Flagler Beach from Sixth Street North to Sixth Street South. Public entry to Fireworks Over the Runways at Flagler Executive Airport begins at 5 p.m. on July 4. The event will feature food trucks, vendors, a beer garden, children’s activities and entertainment. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and settle in for an evening of entertainment leading to the fireworks display at 9 p.m.

Maryiotti Johnson, Diane Vidal and Stephanie Ellis. Courtesy photo

Flagler’s constitutional officers defend pay increases as commission signals budget worries

Requests for pay increases draw scrutiny as county leaders prepare for uncertain budget year.

RICH CARROLL MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER

Flagler County’s constitutional officers began making their case for employee pay increases and staffing needs Monday, June 8, as county commissioners reviewed preliminary budget requests amid growing concerns about future revenue uncertainty.

Requests from several constitutional offices include a combination of cost-of-living adjustments, merit increases and additional staffing positions.

The budget conversations came shortly after auditors from James Moore & Company presented a clean audit for fiscal year 2025. Auditor Zach Chalifour described the county’s reserve position as “healthy,” noting that Flagler County maintains roughly five months of reserves, well above the Government Finance Officers Association’s minimum recommendation of two months.

While the audit offered reassurance about the county’s financial position, commissioners made clear that the upcoming budget cycle will be challenging.

Among the first budgets reviewed was the Clerk of Court and Comptroller’s Office, which is requesting a 3% cost-of-living adjustment, a 2% merit increase and two additional full-time positions.

Clerk Tom Bexley told commissioners that approximately 90% of his office’s budget is tied directly to personnel costs and described the proposal as largely a continuation budget.

“A COLA is not a bonus. It is a tool of equality,” Bexley said. “It is what we all use to try to keep our people equal, reflecting the changes in the economy and inflation.”

Bexley said constitutional officers met prior to the

workshop and agreed that a 3% cost-of-living adjustment reflected current economic conditions.

The clerk’s office is also seeking funding for two positions designed to support financial operations between the comptroller’s office and county administration.

According to Bexley, roughly $310,000 of the proposed increase is tied to employee compensation, while approximately $190,000 would fund the new positions.

Not all commissioners appeared convinced the requests would be affordable.

Vice Chair Kim Carney warned that the county may soon be forced to make difficult decisions regarding personnel spending.

“I can tell you, this is not going to be a good year and we’re going to have to say no,” Carney said. “There’s just no money there to do a $500,000 increase.”

Carney questioned whether constitutional offices should expect both cost-of-living increases and additional staffing positions in the coming year as county leaders prepare for what could be a difficult budget cycle.

Commission Chair Leann Pennington also scrutinized the clerk’s budget after comparing it with similarly sized Florida counties.

Pennington said her review found Flagler’s clerk budget substantially higher than several comparable counties when measured on a perresident basis and questioned whether efficiencies could be identified to reduce longterm costs.

“I don’t know if there’s software that they have. I don’t know what it is, but we are 36%, 55%, 200% more than our peers with this type of population size,” Pennington said.

Bexley defended the request, arguing that comparisons between counties can be difficult because responsibilities and organizational structures vary. He emphasized that the office’s primary responsibility is ensuring taxpayer dollars are properly accounted for and managed.

“The first goal, though,

“A

COLA

is

not a bonus.

It

is a tool of equality, It is what we all use to try to keep our people equal, reflecting the changes in the economy and inflation.”

TOM BEXLEY, Clerk of Courts

is to serve the people,” Bexley said. “If I feel like I need more resources to do that and continue the great work that we’re doing, I’m not going to be afraid to ask for them.”

Bexley also noted that Flagler County continues to experience significant population growth, creating additional demands on the clerk’s office.

The Property Appraiser’s Office received a far warmer reception from commissioners.

Property Appraiser Jay Gardner’s budget proposal includes a 3% cost-of-living adjustment and a 2% merit increase but does not add any new employees.

Pennington praised the office’s staffing levels and budget performance after reviewing comparable counties.

“I looked at Martin, Sumter, Indian River, Nassau, all within our population range, and you have far less FTE [full time employees]. Your budget’s less. It’s a very good budget,”

“I can tell you, this is not going to be a good year and we’re going to have to say no, There’s just no money there to do a $500,000 increase.”

KIM CARNEY, County Commissioner

Pennington told Gardner.

A significant increase in the property appraiser’s nonoperating budget category generated questions from commissioners before staff explained it was largely an accounting adjustment.

Officials from the Property Appraiser’s Office said the Florida Department of Revenue instructed them to place proposed COLA and merit increases in a contingency account until compensation decisions are finalized, making the increase appear larger than it actually is.

Tax Collector Shelly Edmonson and Supervisor of Elections Kaiti Lenhart also presented budget overviews during the workshop.

The Sheriff’s Office budget presentation followed.

With Sheriff Rick Staly attending the National Sheriffs’ Association conference, Chief of Staff Mark Strobridge presented the agency’s proposed spending plan. The Sheriff’s Office is seeking a budget of approximately $68.3 million for the upcom-

13 New deputies requested 9 Of the

ing fiscal year, an increase of about $6.7 million, or 10.8%, over the current year’s budget. The proposal also includes funding for 13 additional deputy positions. Nine of those deputies would be assigned to Palm Coast, while four would serve countywide operations. The staffing request is consistent with proposals submitted by the agency during each of the previous two budget cycles. The workshop marked the beginning of what is expected to be several months of budget discussions before a final spending plan is adopted later this year.

While commissioners expressed appreciation for the work performed by constitutional officers, Monday’s discussion made clear that requests for additional staffing and compensation increases will face heightened scrutiny as county leaders navigate what several described as an uncertain financial environment. County officials are expected to continue budget workshops throughout the summer before adopting a final budget in September.

“I don’t know if there’s software that they have. I don’t know what it is, but we are 36%, 55%, 200% more than our peers with this type of population size.”

LEANN PENNINGTON, commission chair, on the Clerk of Courts budget

Byron Donalds campaigns across Flagler during weekend visit

Florida gubernatorial candidate and U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds spent the weekend campaigning across Flagler County alongside campaign team member Jearlyn “Pastor J” Dennie. According to Dennie, Donalds’ visit included a stop at the Defending the Florida Dream Tour event at the VFW in Palm Coast, breakfast at Southern Table in Bunnell, worship services at New Way Church in Palm Coast and door-to-door campaigning in Flagler Beach.

Donalds is seeking the Republican nomination for governor and has received President Donald Trump’s endorsement.

Signatures certified for City Council candidate John Kvederis

Flagler County Supervisor of Elections Kaiti Lenhart has certified 188 voter signatures for Palm Coast City Council candidate John Thomas Kvederis.

Kvederis is one of four candidates running for the District 4 seat. Also running in District 4 are Dylana Justine

Galery, Ramon

Byron Donalds poses during a campaign stop in Flagler County. Photo courtesy of Jearlyn Dennie

Palm Coast City Council District

John Kvederis

FOCUS ON FAITH

Alpha Kappa Alpha serves 309 families through ‘Our Father’s Table’

Chi Delta Omega Chapter members joined forces with Youth Leadership Institute students and guests on Saturday, May 23, to support the Palm Coast United Methodist Church’s “Our Father’s Table – Food Ministry.”

CDO has been working to address critical food insecurity needs across Flagler County since 2016 and this initiative is a part of that mission, according to a press release. Volunteers contributed to every stage of service from food preparation and cooking to sanitation and meal packaging. With each volunteer engagement, CDO helps feed 200-300 families. Through the recent collective effort, 309 families received meals.

“When we unite our hands and hearts, we don’t just feed families — we strengthen the very foundation of our community,” the press release stated. “This outreach represents more than a number; it reflects a community standing firmly together in service of its most vulnerable members.”

Brought to you by:

Stephenson, Wilcox and Associates

Father Jose on the dangers of artificial intelligence

Father Jose Panthaplamthottiyil, lead pastor at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, reflected on the Pope’s message about the dangers of artificial intelligence this week.

“The central message of Magnifica Humanitas is that every human person possesses an inherent dignity that no machine can replace. Technology exists to serve humanity, not the other way around. The Pope warns against reducing human beings to data, statistics, or economic units. Human persons are created in the image and likeness of God and possess intelligence, freedom, conscience and the capacity to love, qualities that cannot be replicated by machines.”

Email abbie@observerlocal news.com.

Olivia

Visitors account for 22% of spending in Flagler

Meanwhile, The Hammock prepares to host PGA Tour Champions event.

RICH CARROLL MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER

A targeted digital advertising campaign generated approximately $400,000 in hotel revenue from a $33,000 investment, showcasing how Flagler County tourism officials are using data-driven marketing to attract visitors and boost the local economy.

During a June 1 presentation to the Flagler County Commission, Tourism Development Director Amy Lukasik highlighted the results of an Expedia advertising campaign that generated 1.4 million impressions and roughly 700 clicks, ultimately producing about $400,000 in hotel revenue. The campaign delivered a return on ad spend of approximately $12 for every $2 spent.

The campaign is one example of the county’s broader tourism marketing strategy, which relies heavily on visitor data, consumer habits, booking patterns and geographic targeting to maximize the

impact of tourism dollars.

“We target geographically, predominantly for the drive markets,” Lukasik told commissioners, noting the county focuses on travelers within a six- to eight-hour drive along the Interstate 95 corridor, as well as visitors from Northeast and Midwest markets who typically arrive by air.

According to data presented during the meeting, visitors accounted for 22% of all spending in Flagler County over the past 12 months. Tourism officials also reported that visitors represented 27% of restaurant spending countywide during that period.

Lukasik said the tourism office uses a variety of analytical tools to determine where visitors come from, how they move throughout the county and where they spend money. The information helps officials identify markets that produce the greatest economic impact and adjust advertising campaigns accordingly.

NO LOVE FROM CANADA?

Commissioner Greg Hansen also asked Lukasik about reports showing a decline in Canadian tourism to Florida.

Lukasik acknowledged that Flagler County is experiencing the same trend seen else-

where in the state, although the impact locally has been limited.

“Canada historically has been about 2 to 3% of our visitors,” Lukasik said. “Yes, we’re seeing — or that’s what our partners are telling us — that they’re not coming.”

She attributed the decline largely to the current political climate but said industry representatives she recently spoke with in Canada indicated the downturn may be temporary.

“I did go to a conference not too long ago and it had people from Canada and they said, ‘We still love you guys. We’ll come there, we’ll come back. Just not yet, not now,’” Lukasik said.

Hansen also noted recent

state tourism reports showing that visitors arriving in Florida by air were down while drive-market travel had increased. Lukasik said that trend has had less impact on Flagler County because the destination relies heavily on visitors who drive to the area rather than fly. She added that Orlando, Atlanta, New York and South Florida remain among Flagler County’s strongest tourism markets.

PGA IN THE HAMMOCK

The presentation comes as Flagler County prepares for one of its most significant tourism events of the year in the Hammock. This October, the Constellation Furyk & Friends PGA Tour Champions tournament will make its debut at Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa. The tournament, scheduled for Oct. 9-11, is expected to bring national exposure to Flagler County through Golf Channel broadcasts and attract thousands of visitors to the Hammock area.

Lukasik specifically highlighted the event during her presentation, telling commissioners that the tournament would bring “a lot of national attention” to Flagler County.

Tournament organizers say the event will feature a 78-player field, a $2.2 million purse and a Furyk Foundation concert featuring country music star Billy Currington. Since its inception, the tournament has raised more than $5.45 million for charitable organizations across Northeast Florida and plans to expand its charitable efforts into Flagler County.

The event represents another opportunity for the county’s tourism office to capitalize on the type of visitor spending highlighted by the Expedia campaign. With national television exposure, tournament spectators, overnight guests and concert attendees expected to visit the area, officials hope the Hammock event will further strengthen the county’s tourism economy. Tourism remains one of the county’s largest economic drivers. In fiscal year 2025, Flagler County recorded approximately $91 million in lodging sales, according to data presented by Lukasik. Short-term vacation rentals alone generated about $7.5 million in revenue during March 2026 and maintained a 72% occupancy rate during the month. For tourism officials, the success of the Expedia campaign demonstrates how targeted marketing can translate into measurable economic activity, generating revenue for local hotels, restaurants and businesses while helping attract visitors to destinations throughout Flagler County — including major events in the Hammock.

Bereal and Kimberly Lee. Courtesy photo

Amy Lukasik, Flagler County tourism development director

The Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa. File photo by Sierra Williams

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

What would replace property taxes to fund services?

Dear Editor:

The article about property taxes, (in the June 4 edition of the Observer) is disingenuous at best. No, the state doesn’t get any revenue from property taxes. Property taxes are the main source of revenue at the county and city level. The money collected goes to fund the everyday services that we all depend on.

Getting rid of property taxes is an appealing idea, on the surface. How exactly are our county/city going to replace that income? What other taxes will have to be levied on the citizens to make up for the loss of the revenue? As it is we have budget shortfalls.

The proponents have yet to provide a factual explanation for how that income will be replaced. The governor says he will create a fund to help counties and cities affected by this. Where is the money for that “fund” going to come from. I wouldn’t hold my breath waiting for that help.

EDITH CAMPINS Palm Coast

Dealership violated city code by cutting down

oak trees

Dear Editor: About two or three weeks ago, I was driving east on Palm Coast Parkway, and, upon approaching the Palm Coast Ford dealership, I immediately felt somewhat lost as it was so bright in an area that is normally shaded. At that point I realized that all 10 of the perimeter buffer oak trees had been completely removed from the front landscape buffer!

The stumps had already been ground down to the ground, as evidenced by the sawdust where the trees were. Upon calling the city urban forester to notify her of this removal, she said they had already received some complaints and were aware of it, and no permit had been issued for the removals. This removal was particularly maddening to me, as prior to my retirement as the landscape architect of the city, the urban forester and myself investigated a previous tree removal violation on the same property which was mitigated with the planting of several new trees. The dealership was aware at that point that removal of any tree without a permit on commercially zoned property was a violation of Section 11.02.05, A, 1 of the Land Development Code. The people at the dealership absolutely knew when they cut down these 10 oaks that they could not do what they did without a permit. Mitigation is required for such violation under Section 11.04.02, A, which states in part, “... the total diameter inches of the protected trees removed shall be replaced with a minimum tree size of six-inch caliper.”

Those trees were at least 24 inches or more in diameter so I hope the city makes them pay for this and replace them back in the buffer. The arborist said she would keep me updated on the violation proceedings, but, as of yet, I have not heard from her. The city needs to make an example of this blatant violation of our tree code so others do not think they can get away with doing similar removals on their properties.

By the way, the Chrysler dealer on State Road 100 has also violated our ordinance by “lion-tailing” their trees

in their front landscape buffer. This type of tree destruction and disfigurement must be stopped!

BILL BUTLER Palm Coast

Editor’s note: The city of Palm Coast responded to the above letter:

Palm Coast Ford was cited by the city of Palm Coast on May 11, 2026, for violations related to the unauthorized removal of trees and Palm Coast Parkway Overlay Zone requirements. City staff has met with the property owner, and a mitigation plan is being developed to restore compliance with the city’s Land Development Code. The matter remains an active code enforcement case.

The dealerships did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Facebook reaction to this story was mixed. Eric Thompson wrote, “So you’re concerned about a few trees in front of the business, meanwhile they’re leveling thousands and thousands of acres of trees for asphalt. Okay.”

Michael J. Martucci wrote, “Fine all the developers as well for clearing right up to the roads!”

‘Toilet-to-tap’ is

not a credible issue in Ormond Beach

Dear Editor:

The “toilet to tap” question is not a credible issue facing our city.

I write to present facts and relevant questions on the beneficial reuse of nonpotable wastewaters based on my decades-long public health/ environmental engineering background ensuring safe drinking water for metropolitan Baltimore and our U.S.

Army worldwide. Did you know that Ormond Beach already practices safe recycling of nonpotable wastewaters, and has for many years? Here are two prominent instances.

First, there are approximately 300 septic tanks in Ormond and another 4,000 in Ormond-by-the-Sea, parts of which we supply with drinking water. After natural soil filtration, some resulting leachate from these tanks percolates into our aquifer where extensive dilution occurs.

Second, there are 4 million to 5 million gallons of highly treated wastewater applied daily to irrigate and enhance lawns and landscapes throughout our city. This reclaimed water is used by 4,500+ residents (about 10% of our population), commercial businesses and in public areas. Eventually, residual leachate from treated wastewater irrigating lawns also finds its way into our aquifer where tremendous dilution occurs.

If a public referendum is authorized and all toilet-totap (recycling of nonpotable wastewaters) is banned, then would septic tanks be outlawed? Must lawn and landscape irrigation cease to the detriment of our paradise? How would the city replace these critical services? How quickly? At what cost? How would these major projects be funded? These critical questions must be addressed.

Also, why is this being raised now? No direct toiletto-tap plans have been announced by our city or county.

We know Ormond’s treatment of aquifer water, with space-age technological advancements, produces the safe, fine quality of potable water we enjoy today.

As a side note, direct

toilet-to-tap reuse occurs on the space station. The only water sources there are urine, sweat, cabin air humidity and hygiene water (from teeth brushing, handwashing and shower runoff). A sophisticated, highly efficient closed loop recovery system produces their potable water.

Ormond has sufficient potable water supply into the future. When additional drinking water is needed, the desalination option has been studied by the St. Johns Water District, and consumer water conservation can save up to 30% applying guidance from the American Water Works Association.

So, why would we implement a ban now that limits our future options for potable use of recycled water in the event conditions point to its serious consideration?

Again, indirect toilet to tap exists here now in a very beneficial way. Direct reuse is not being considered and our city will not inject wastewater into tap water as some suggest, so why waste taxpayer funds on a referendum of this non-issue?

Facts are essential in intelligently addressing the challenges facing our city. Toilet to tap is not one of those challenges.

JERRY A. VALCIK Ormond Beach

Serve and protect

Dear Editor: I enjoyed the Cops Corner about the restaurant owner who called police to aid an “overserved” patron. Beside the owner’s concern, I was heartened that police still observe “to serve and protect” rather than “gotcha!” The policeman drove the patron, obviously not a fre-

quent imbiber, home safely.

BARBARA MORGAN Daytona Beach

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.

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Backstage pass

The multi-layered dramas and joys of Penguin Project’s

BRIAN MCMILLAN

PUBLISHER

I volunteered (mostly willingly) to help backstage dur-

ACTORS (THE STARS)

Hayden Noyes

Alanah Cunningham

Payten Stallman

Alex Dillard

Nathaniel Goncalves

Kalin Vazquez

Ellie Santos

Evie Price

Morgan Sanderson

Nicholas Henry

Elliott Chase

Winter Ashby

Ethan Lo Re

Nolan Lo Re

Annelise Gomez

Emily King

Mikayla Buffington

Julia Marino

Snow Harwood

Phoebe Schlink

Rilea Jackson

Evelyn Kling

Mila Mendes

Chloe Bunsen

Lacy McKampson

Gordon Crawford-Kling

Keaton Wilburn

Mason Bachman

MENTORS

Courtney Bard

Charmian Bryan

Giana Gemmola

Elissa Griffin

Kennedy McMillan

Nichole Smith

Lela Stearley

Elizabeth Wirth

Hayden Berry

Christi Dillard

Wynn Goncalves

Alice King

Madison Mott

Noah Smith

Matt Vasta

Ariana Buffington

Carmella Gemmola

Jordyn Green

Allie Marsh

Raphaella Ribeiro

Emma Stearley

Leanna Vazquez

ing a dress rehearsal and the final performance at the Penguin Project’s “The Lion King Jr.” last week, at Bunnell Elementary School. The show rehearsals, featuring dozens of kids with special needs and their mentors, are sometimes three hours long.

My job was to move Scar’s chair onstage, then remove it. I did an OK job.

Behind the scenes, the drama is amplified. As fictional Simba is learning to have no worries (“hakuna matata”) under the bright lights onstage, other actors with special needs are battling their real worries behind the curtains. A few have outbursts, cry, and threaten to quit. Without fail, their parents and other volunteers are there to support the kids and respond with care.

In one rehearsal, stress increased as practice time was running out, and I saw the Young Simba actor, Nathaniel Goncalves, get pulled aside by his mother, Lindsey Goncalves. She listened intently. She was there for him. And he opened up.

“This is really a lot and I’m really tired,” he told her.

I’m sure many participants (ages 8 to 25) felt the same way. My daughter Kennedy was one of the mentors, and the hours were long for her, too.

“But,” Nathaniel said to his

mother, “the end result is going to be worth it.”

Lindsey appeared to tear up as she told me about the interaction, which I assume would not have been possible without her patient approach. She was proud of her son, who was learning resilience and sacrifice in a powerful way.

The show must go on, worries or no worries.

Two of the actors used wheelchairs and one used a walker. A lot of family members, including siblings and cousins, were involved.

This is the fourth annual Penguin Project play produced by Flagler Playhouse, which is one of six Penguin Project chapters in the state of Florida. Each production takes about four months of

preparation with the participants. The show was directed by Bella Martins, with production team members Ashley Sheridan, Christina Miller, Ysa Boothman, Amanda Lo Re, Sam Brunetti, Robbie Miller, Bonnie Binns, Gerson Henry and Matt Landrum.

A group of mothers took over costume creation. They set up shop at the school and spent months creating papier-mâché animal heads and custom-tailoring costumes for every actor.

Being backstage, I was able to see these costumes up close, and the detail was impressive. Each painted eye of each lioness, for example, required many brush strokes. The back of the Pumbaa costume fea -

tured zip ties, which no one could see from the audience; those zip ties were still painted red, adding a hidden dignity and professionalism to the show. The crew that made the sets and costumes happen included Priscilla Henry, Christiana Buffington, Cindy Guldenschuh, Amber Landrum, Mary Jackson, Sandra Sanderson, and Barbara Van Arstale.

One of the most powerful moments of the show was actually the “post-credits” scene. Disney’s “The Lion King,” of course, does not end with a cover of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing.” But the Penguin Project’s retelling does, whether it’s a practice or a rehearsal or a show.

That final song is when the jubilant, saintly producer of the Penguin Project, Jerri Berry, shines. As everyone dances on stage, she holds hands or sings with each of them, one by one, beaming. They beam right back. She openly wipes tears from her own cheeks, showing the intensity of this show, the personal triumphs.

The audience sings along, sending a message: Yes, our dear friends, please don’t stop believing in yourselves. Please keep your heads high, keep trying, keep creating art, keep spreading joy.

Brent Woronoff contributed to this story.

Evie Price as Nala.

‘The Lion King Jr.’

Kalin Vazquez as Adult Simba, backstage. Photo by Brian McMillan

Alex Dillard as Scar.

The Penguin Project’s “The Lion King Jr.,” June 2026. Photos courtesy of Mike Kitaif

Alanah Cunningham as Mufasa with Nathaniel Goncalves as Young Simba.

LOCAL EVENTS

FRIDAY, JUNE 12

2026 DIRT DONATION

PROGRAM

When: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday and Saturday, June 12-13

Where: 4283 Old Kings Road

N., Palm Coast

Details: The City of Palm Coast is providing free dirt for citizens to improve drainage on their properties. Residents may receive up to 5 cubic yards of dirt. ID required. Dirt cannot be resold. A grading permit may be required if machinery is used for spreading. Download and complete a form before arriving. Visit palmcoast.gov/stormwater.

TURTLE TALK: A SEA

TURTLE’S JOURNEY

When: 10-11 a.m.

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

Details: Discover the world of sea turtles and why they matter to our coastal ecosystem. Learn how to make a difference. Meet at the beachside pavilion. Register at www. zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/ turtle-talk-a-sea-turtlesjourney.

COFFEE AND CONVERSATIONS WITH YOUR CITY MANAGER

When: 9-10 a.m.

Where: Loopers, 100 Cooper Lane, Palm Coast

Details: The City of Palm Coast invites residents to grab a cup of coffee with City Manager Mike McGlothlin. Ask questions, share ideas, and discuss what matters most to you. Free event. Registration required. Visit parksandrec.fun.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY AT THE FARM

When: 5-9 p.m.

Where: Florida Agricultural Legacy Learning Center, 7900

Old Kings Road N., Palm Coast

Details: Presented by the museum, this food truck event features a “Summer kick off” theme. There will be an artisan market, line dancing, kids’ zone nd live entertainment. Visit floridaagmuseum.org.

SATURDAY, JUNE 13

PHOENIX CROSSINGS CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT

When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Palm Harbor Golf Club, 20 Palm Harbor Drive, Palm Coast

Details: Take part in this golf tournament to benefit Phoenix Crossings, which serves Flagler County residents through permanent supportive housing. The organization serves low-income families, youth aging out of foster care and individuals with disabilities. Registration costs $150 for individual golfer; $600 for a foursome. Lunch included. Visit https://www.almhhi.org/ phoenix-crossings-inauguralcharity-golf-tournament-2/.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST

When: 9-11:30 a.m.

Where: Flagler Woman’s Club, 1524 S. Central Ave., Flagler Beach

Details: Join the Flagler Woman’s Club for its annual pancake breakfast. A $6 donation gets you pancakes, sausage, coffee, juice or ice tea. All donations benefit the Education Fund to support scholarships. For more information, call Nancy at 386-986-8392.

SECOND SATURDAY PLANT SALE

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

Where: Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, 6400 N. Oceanshore Blvd., Palm Coast

Details: Join the Friends of Washington Oaks for a plant sale. Free with paid park admission. Please bring cash.

DAYTONA BEACH

JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL

When: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: Cypress Park, 981 W.

George Engram Blvd., Daytona Beach

Details: Celebrate the heritage and resilience of African Americans with this year’s theme, “Juneteenth: Celebrating One Community in Unity.”

There will be live music, local vendors, food, art and educational experiences. Attendees can also enjoy traditional African dance performances, the Sankofa African Traveling Museum and a pound cake competition. Free festival.

JUNETEENTH

FREEDOM DAY

When: 12-6 p.m.

Where: African American Cultural Society, 4422 U.S. 1 N., Palm Coast

Details: Celebrate Juneteenth with the African American Cultural Society. There will be vendors, music, drumming, food vendors, an African fashion show and family activities. The Juneteenth program will begin at 2 p.m. Visit aacs palmcoast.org.

TOMOKA BASIN

STATE PARKS

When: 2 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach

Regional Library, 30 S. Beach

St., Ormond Beach

Details: Mark Adams, a park services specialist at Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park, will discuss the Tomoka Basin State Parks and the area’s ecology. Free.

THE COPPER CREEK BAND

When: 2 p.m.

Where: Daytona Beach

Regional Library, 105 Jackie Robinson Parkway, Daytona Beach

Details: Experience classic country, outlaw and southern rock with this local group. Free program.

GAMBLE JAM

When: 2-4 p.m.

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

Details: Join in for the Gamble Jam where musicians of all skill levels are invited to bring their acoustic instruments. Park entry fee applies.

CMTW PRESENTS ‘THE MAGIC OF DREAMS’ 2026 DANCE SHOWCASE

When: 7 p.m.

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

Details: See this dance showcase at the PAC. Tickets cost $18. Visit https://ormond beachperformingartscenter. csstix.com.

TUESDAY, JUNE 16

AMERICA250 — COMMUNITY DAY

When: 10:30 a.m.

Where: Daytona Beach

Regional Library, 105 Jackie Robinson Parkway, Daytona Beach

Details: Children can meet with community representatives, learn about valuable resources and services, and ask questions. Free program.

JUST ADD RHYTHM

When: 1 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach

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

Details: Embark on a sonic adventure that centers on finding your inner rhythm and integrating it with everyone else’s to create a groove. Free.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17

PROBUS CLUB OF PALM COAST

When: 11 a.m. to noon

Where: Cypress Knoll Golf & Country Club, 53 Easthampton Blvd., Palm Coast

play Bridge (progressive and non-progressive) or other games. All are welcome. A $4 donation is requested at the door. Call Suzanne at 386503-1893 to reserve a spot.

GAME ON! AMERICAN HISTORY JEOPARDY

When: 2 p.m.

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

Beach

Details: Teens can drop by to play or compete in a variety of games from tabletop to screen. Free program.

THURSDAY, JUNE 18

COASTAL CRAFTING

WITH SEA GLASS

When: 10 a.m. to noon

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

Details: Using sea glass, recycled corks and mixed media techniques, participants will design a seaside-inspired artwork to take home. Materials provided. Bring your own sea glass and cork (cut in half) for personalization. There’s a $5 material fee in cash. Park entry fee applies. Space limited to 10. Children welcome with an adult. Register at zeffy. com/en-US/ticketing/coastal-crafting-with-sea-glass.

THIRD THURSDAY DOCENT TOUR

When: 11 a.m. to noon

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

cies or disasters, to participate in our Disaster Volunteer Training Series. This program is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to help with traffic management during special events and emergencies.

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. The guest speaker will be Barry Powell, a candidate for Volusia County Council at-large. Likeminded guests are welcome to attend. Visit ormondbeach dems.org.

DSC MUSIC PRESENTS SUMMER JAZZ CONCERT

When: 7-9 p.m.

Where: News-Journal Center, 221 N. Beach St., Daytona Beach Details: Attend this free concert. For more information, contact the box office at 386226-1888 or at boxoffice@ daytonastate.edu.

FRIDAY, JUNE 19 GOPHER TORTOISE: SUPERHERO OF THE SCRUB When: 10-11 a.m.

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

Details: Take a tour of the reception gallery, the stairway gallery and a walk through the gardens and historic Emmons Cottage. The tour concludes with tea on the rooftop terrace. Free for museum members and U.S. veterans; included with museum admission for all others. Meet at the reception gallery by 11 a.m.

FOODS THAT BUILT

AMERICA — ICE CREAM

When: 2 p.m.

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

Details: This is a social club for the retired and semiretired that meets monthly with a guest speaker on a topic of interest, with other social events during the month. This month’s guest speaker is Tabitha Schmidt, CEO of the Museum of Arts & Sciences/ The Brown in Daytona Beach. All are welcome. Stay for lunch if you like. Explore the benefits of joining Probus, a worldwide organization. For more information, contact Larry Wright at palmcoast probusclub@gmail.com or at 386-597-3055.

FLAGLER TIGER BAY CLUB

JUNE 2026 MEETING

When: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Hammock Dunes Club, 30 Avenue Royale, Palm Coast

Details: This month’s guest speaker will be Bill Galvano, former member and majority leader of the Florida Senate. The topic will be: “25 Years of Policy, Growth, and Results: What Florida Got Right and What comes Next.” Costs $45 for members; $50 for guests. Registration required. Visit www.flaglertigerbayclub.com/ event-6621941.

BRIDGE AND GAMES

When: 1-4 p.m.

Where: Flagler Woman’s Club, 1524 South Central Avenue, Flagler Beach

Details: The Flagler Woman’s Club invites you to come and

Details: Learn about ice cream as library staff does a cooking demonstration during this Recipes and Reads Culinary Lab program. Free.

FLORIDA VISTA BOOK CLUB

When: 2-3:30 p.m.

Where: Halifax Historical Museum, 262 S. Beach St.

Daytona Beach

Details: The book club is hosting local author Jeff Boyle. Public is invited. Admission is free for Halifax Historical Museum members and $10 for non-members.

CIVILIAN TRAFFIC CONTROL TRAINING

When: 5:30-7 p.m.

Where: Flagler County Emergency Operations Center, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Bunnell

Details: Flagler County Emergency Management and Flagler Volunteer Services invite residents who are interested in learning how to support our community during emergen-

Details: Discover the world of the gopher tortoise. After the talk, stick around for an optional stroll through the park to spot active burrows. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Program open to all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Register at www. zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/ gopher-tortoise-superheroof-the-scrub.

FLORIDA HEAT, COOL WATER FAMILY PADDLE When: 5-7 p.m.

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

Details: Learn about the estuary and marine life during this paddle program, which includes a kayak, paddles and personal flotation devices. Ages 6-13 are $20 per person, in a tandem vessel with adult. Single vessel, ages 14 and up are $30 per person. Bringing your own vessel? ages 14 and up are $20 per person. Park entry fee is separate. Space is limited. Call 386-517-2086.

SATURDAY, JUNE 20

OCEAN TO ESTUARY GUIDED NATURE WALK AND CITIZEN SCIENCE When: 9-11 a.m.

Where: River to Sea Preserve, 9805 N. Ocean Shore Blvd, Marineland

Details: Take a free guided walk with a master naturalist. Meet at the pavilion. There will also be a hands-on citizen science activity. Register at gtmness.org/calendars.

YOUR SCHOOLS

Original Owl: Old Kings Elementary’s Allesee retires after 39-year career

Nancy Allesee has worked under nine superintendents and nine principals at Flagler Schools.

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Nancy Allesee was 25 when Flagler Schools Superintendent Donn Kaupke told her to come on down from Indiana and apply for a teaching position. Thirty-nine years later, Allesee has retired from the school district.

Allesee taught for three years at Bunnell Elementary School, and in 1990 she moved over with some of her teaching friends to a brand new school opening in Flagler Beach — Old Kings Elementary. She has been there ever since, saying goodbye to students, faculty, staff and administrators during a surprise send-off on May 27. “I was totally shocked,” she said. “I had no idea when I walked out in the hall.” She was beckoned to the principal’s office for the final

CLASS NOTES

Mainland Junior ROTC performs 4,000 hours of community service

The Mainland High School Air Force Junior ROTC program completed the school year with 38 cadets up in the air — at an indoor skydiving experience, during a field trip to iFLY in Orlando. According to a press release, the cadets earned over 4,000 hours of community service during the school year. They supported numerous veteran activities, including presenting the colors, cleaning the Oakridge Cemetery with the Vietnam veterans, planting flags in multiple cemeteries for Memorial Day and assisting at the VA nursing home in Daytona Beach. Cadets also took 10 field trips, including an overnight visit to the USS Alabama Battleship Park and Pensacola Naval Aviation Museum. The program hosted a drill meet for 11 schools, held a military ball, ran an awards ceremony that provided over $7,000 for graduating seniors, and is now preparing 10 cadets for a week-long summer leadership course at The Citadel in South Carolina.

time after 36 years of “dedication, love and service to our school.” She passed by an end-of-the-year celebration for two first-grade classes, turned the corner and saw the hallways lined on both sides with students and staff applauding.

“The students had signs and banners and flowers, and when I got to the end, (Superintendent) LaShakia Moore was there and the administration, and I thought, ‘oh, this is great, this is such a nice sendoff,’” Allesee said. “And then I turned and looked outside and saw the rest of the school in the courtyard.”

‘IT JUST FELT LIKE HOME’ Kaupke had been Allesee’s superintendent in Merrillville, Indiana, when she was growing up. When she arrived in Flagler County for her interview, it was a culture shock. She grew up outside of Chicago, and Palm Coast in 1987 had one traffic light.

“My parents were like, ‘hey, go try it out. If you want to stay a year, you can stay a year, and then see if you like it.’ Well, here I am still, 39 years later,” Allesee said. “So it’s certainly been a big change from when

I first moved here.”

Allesee taught first grade for 20 years and second grade for the past 19 years. With her family in Indiana, OKES became her family, she said.

“I had wonderful friends at Old Kings, and it just felt like home,” she said.

The family atmosphere trickled down to the students who stayed together in the same group from kindergarten through fifth grade.

“They were actually called, ‘the family,’ Allesee said. “They were very close-knit, and so were the teachers. And we had school-staff child care. So, both of my children, who are now 27 and 24, they came to school with me as infants and went to Old Kings all the way up through fifth grade. We were the only district in the state that provided that for our teachers, which was phenomenal.”

It’s been very rewarding, she said, to see so many of her former students go on to become teachers themselves.

“I always have thought Flagler has been a very progressive and top of the line school district,” she said. “I’ve been through nine superintendents and nine principals, and each

one brought something a little unique and different to the table.”

The addition of unique flagship career programs to each school made all of the schools special, she said. She’s also seen the elementary curriculum become more rigorous.

“When I first start teaching first grade, you would get them learning the alphabet to start teaching them to read and sound out words, and now they’re expected to be reading in first grade,” she said. “In second, it’s more focusing on comprehension, and a lot of the students are aren’t quite

ready for that, especially if they come from other places where they don’t start school until September and they’re already almost five, six weeks behind where we are.”

Allesee said now that she is retired, she and her husband are planning to go on a cruise. She is also planning trips to visit family. She wants to read more, and she said she has a lot of crafting to do that she’s had to put aside.

“I just want to really enjoy life and be able to go to the beach whenever I want to see sunrises,” she said. “And I still want to go to the school

WATCH THE VIDEO To watch Flagler Schools’ video of Allesee send-off: https:// www.facebook.com/reel /1999513694008248.

and volunteer for a couple of friends in their classrooms, just so I don’t totally miss working with the children.”

Mainland ROTC teacher, Maj. Michael Miglioranzi, is retiring this month. He and fellow instructor Master Sgt. Garthwaite said they are “extremely proud of our cadets’ accomplishments and wish the best for their future success,” the press release states.

Mainland’s ROTC program is looking for interested students to join. Cadets are not recruited nor expected to join the military. For more information, contact Garthwaite at 386-2584665, ext. 54338.

Seabreeze senior receives $2,500 scholarship

Lucy Kimble, a recent graduate of Seabreeze High School, is a recipient of a $2,500 STAR scholarship from the Philanthropic Educational Organization Sisterhood, The PEO STAR Scholarship was established in 2009 to provide funds for exceptional

high school senior women to attend an accredited postsecondary educational institution in the U.S. or Canada in the next academic year, according to a press release. Chapter BD of Daytona Beach recommended Kimble for the scholarship.

While at Seabreeze, Kimble was on the softball team, the swim team, a member of the Allied Health Academy and the school advisory council. She will attend the University of Florida in the fall to pursue a bachelor’s in biology, with the goal to have a medical career in the future.

Mainland High School Air Force Junior ROTC program recently went indoor skydiving at iFLY in Orlando. Courtesy photo

Students hold signs honoring Old Kings Elementary School teacher Nancy Allesee at her final call on May 27. Photo courtesy of Flagler Schools

Lucy Kimble, Seabreeze senior. Courtesy photo

REAL ESTATE

Historic home on Beach Street sells

for $1.2M

Ahistoric riverfront estate on about 1.6 acres along the Halifax River at 458 S. Beach St. was the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea for the week of May 16-22. The house sold on May 19, for $1.2 million. Built in 1908, the house is a 5/6 with two half baths, and has a fireplace, a pool, a gazebo, a four-car garage and 4,529 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $750,000. The house was listed by Doug Gernert, of RE/MAX Signature.

JARLEENE ALMENAS

MANAGING EDITOR

ORMOND BEACH

Archers Mill

The house at 331 Bracer Way sold on May 18, for $419,990. Built in 2026, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,108 square feet.

The house at 3005 Kingsman Trail sold on May 18, for $379,990. Built in 2026, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,034 square feet.

Halifax Plantation

The house at 1324 Tullamore Blvd. sold on May 18, for

$667,000. Built in 2022, the house is a 4/2.5 and has 2,598 square feet.

The house at 1313 Runaby Lane sold on May 18, for $345,000. Built in 1999, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,810 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $220,000.

The house at 3356 Newbliss Circle sold on May 20, for $370,000. Built in 1995, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 2,083 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $219,000.

Hunter’s Ridge

The house at 77 Abacus Ave. sold on May 18, for $410,000. Built in 2009, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,221 square feet. It last sold in March 2026 for $400,000.

The house at 32 Allenwood Look sold on May 20, for $849,999. Built in 2001, the house is a 5/4 and has a pool and 4,335 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $505,000.

Lakevue

The townhome at 133 Nature Trail sold on May 21, for $330,800. Built in 1998, the townhome is a 2/2.5 and has 1,782 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $269,900.

Not in subdivision

The manufactured home at 365 Creek Lane sold on May 19, for $27,000. Built in 1968, the manufactured home is a 2/1 and has 672 square feet. It last sold in 2001 for $32,000.

The manufactured home at 702 Virginia Terrace sold on May 22, for $199,000. Built in 2026, the manufactured home is a 2/2 and has 849 square feet.

Ormond Lakes

The house at 4 Cliffside Drive sold on May 22, for $460,000. Built in 2001, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,973 square feet. It last sold in 2008 for $242,000.

WEST DAYTONA BEACH

A house in Latitude Margaritaville at 202 Catamaran Cove was the top real estate transaction in Daytona Beach’s 32124 zip code for the week of May 16-22. The house sold on May 20, for $820,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 3/3 and has 2,468 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $604,500. The house was listed by Kelley Sarantis, of Bob Hodges and Sons Realty.

Grande Champion

The house at 988 Champion Ridge Drive sold on May 22, for $374,990. Built in 2026, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,828 square feet.

Plantation Bay

The house at 1404 Sunningdale Lane sold on May 20, for $495,000. Built in 2003, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 2,172 square feet. It last sold in 2015 for $253,000.

The house at 1216 Sunningdale Lane sold on May 22, for $490,000. Built in 2001, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a spa and 1,930 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $310,000.

The house at 440 Long Cove Road sold on May 22, for $556,100. Built in 1993, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace, a pool and 2,172 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $538,000.

Ridgehaven

The house at 1126 Cliffhaven Court sold on May 19, for $486,990. Built in 2025, the

Latitude Margaritaville

The house at 488 Hang Loose Way sold on May 18, for $705,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 2/2.5 and has a pool and 2,139 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $577,300.

The house at 1169 Fins Up Court sold on May 18, for $455,000. Built in 2019, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,563 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $480,000.

The house at 533 Hang Loose Way sold on May 18, for $418,500. Built in 2025, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,464 square feet. It last sold in 2025 for $396,100.

The house at 595 Good Life

house is a 3/3 and has 2,344 square feet.

The house at 1130 Cliffhaven Court sold on May 19, for $490,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,275 square feet.

The house at 580 Brookhaven Trail sold on May 19, for $418,000. Built in 2025, the house is a 5/4 and has 3,000 square feet.

The house at 186 Parkhaven Drive sold on May 21, for $280,000. Built in 2025, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,454 square feet.

The Trails The house at 4 Eagle Rock Trail sold on May 21, for $520,000. Built in 1976, the house is a 5/2.5 and has two fireplaces and 2,411 square feet. It last sold in 2025 for $310,000.

Way sold on May 19, for $385,000. Built in 2021, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,464 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $268,700.

LPGA

The house at 1262 Champions Drive sold on May 20, for $517,500. Built in 2025, the house is a 5/3.5 and has 3,098 square feet.

Preserve at LPGA The house at 253 Eagle Harbor Way sold on May 18, for $395,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,017 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $387,900.

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

Oaks The house at 110 N. St. Andrews Drive sold on May 18, for $595,000. Built in 1975, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a fireplace, a pool and 2,263 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $495,000.

Trails North Forty The townhome at 12 Big Buck Trail sold on May 22, for $325,000. Built in 1984, the townhome is a 4/3 and has a fireplace and 2,475 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $390,000.

ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA Surfside Estates The house at 3009 Anchor Drive sold on May 18, for $424,000. Built in 1972, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,748 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $230,000.

Tomoka

ORMOND BEACH

A historic home at 458 S. Beach St. was the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Or-

Ocean Hammock home sells for almost $2M

Ahouse at 10 Hammock Beach Circle S., in Ocean Hammock, was the top real estate transaction for May 23-29 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The house sold on May 28, for $1,984,500. Built in 2022, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a fireplace, a pool, a summer kitchen and 3,562 square feet. The house was listed by Luke O’Reilly and Renee Molitor, of Hammock Real Estate Group.

1984, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,331 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $261,000.

Condos

A condo at 60 Surfview Drive, Unit 123, sold on May 29, for $465,000. Built in 2004, the condo is a 3/2.5 and has 1,455 square feet. It sold in 2011 for $237,900.

A condo at 4600 E. Moody Blvd., Unit 14G, sold on May 28, for $150,000. Built in. 2005, the condo is a 2/2 and has 971 square feet. It sold in 2024 for $165,000.

A condo at 1601 N. Central Ave., Unit 103, sold on May 28, for $250,000. Built in 1984, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,215 square feet. It sold in 2011 for $169,000.

A condo at 3600 S. Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 212, sold on May 26, for $315,000. Built in

A condo at 13 N. Ocean Palm Villa, sold on May 26, for $227,000. Built in 1979, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,184 square feet. It sold in 2015 for $145,000.

PALM COAST

Belle Terre

A house at 31 Burning View Lane sold on May 29, for $354,000. Built in 2026, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,754 square feet.

A house at 28 Eastmoor Lane sold on May 27, for $419,000. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,306 square feet.

Grand Haven A house at 6 Ibis Court N. sold on May 29, for $485,000.

Built in 2000, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool, a hot tub and 2,276 square feet. It sold in 2016 for $335,000.

A house at 67 Lagare St. sold on May 29, for $435,000. Built in 1999, the house is a 3/2.5 and has 2,446 square feet. It sold in 2006 for $395,000.

Hammock Beach

A house at 401 Bourganville Drive sold on May 29, for $940,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a pool, a fireplace, an outdoor kitchen and 2,457 square feet.

Hammock Dunes

A house at 5 Avenue Monet sold on May 28, for $1,050,000. Built in 1999, the house is a 3/3 and has a pool, a fireplace, a hot tub, an outdoor kitchen and 2,948 square feet. It sold in 2005 for $830,000.

A house at 10 Cordoba Court sold on May 26, for $1,480,000. Built in 1998, the house is a 5/5 and has a pool, a hot tub, two fireplaces and 4,605 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $727,000.

Palm Harbor A house at 5 Clark Lane sold on May 29, for $288,000. Built in 1972, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,216 square feet. It sold in 2024 for $269,000.

Sawmill Branch

A house at 47 Springwood Drive sold on May 28, for $285,000. Built in 2025, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,714 square feet.

A house at 167 Greenwood Drive sold on May 28, for $372,910. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,986 square feet.

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

Spacious Johnson-built home featuring 4BR/2BA, 2-car garage & built-in safe room. Major updates include 2019 roof,

Ormond Beach home offers nearly 1,800 sq ft, an oversized 2-car garage, remodeled chef’s kitchen with granite countertops, screened pool, and spacious outdoor living area. Boathouse, boat lift, jet ski lift & quick access to the Tomoka River. Built in 2016 with whole-house Generac generator and no HOA! #1227065 $650,000. Jonathan Gildon 386-451-2412.

BUSINESS

Past and future of Split Oak Ranch

Naftali and Nicole DeJesus are venturing into agritourism in western Flagler County.

RICH CARROLL

MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER

A new chapter is underway at Split Oak Ranch, where the owners of the Flagler County equestrian facility are working to transform the property into a destination for horseback riding, community events and outdoor recreation.

Neftali and Nicole DeJesus purchased the 54-acre property in January and have spent the past several

months upgrading facilities while preserving the foundation established by previous owners Connie and Chase McDougald. The couple said the McDougalds remain involved as partners as they work together to expand the ranch’s offerings and community presence. The ranch, formerly known as Split Oak Farm, has operated for roughly five years and remains focused on equestrian activities, but the new owners have broader plans for the future.

“We’re keeping everything the same, but expanding and growing and trying to upgrade all the facilities,” Neftali DeJesus said. “We’re trying to make it more accessible not

just for horse riders, but for the community as a whole.”

Among the most significant additions is a new 5,000-square-foot agritourism event center currently under construction. The climate-controlled facility is expected to open within the next month and a half and will be available for weddings, fundraisers, corporate gatherings, homeschool groups, reunions and other community events.

The building will feature ADA-compliant restrooms, a preparation kitchen, a bridal suite area and a 1,200-squarefoot front porch overlooking the ranch property. According to the owners, several events have already been scheduled before construction is complete. Four events are currently on the calendar for the facility’s opening month.

A grand opening is scheduled for 5-8 p.m. July 11, featuring food trucks, vendors — and mechanical bull. Visit splitoakranchfl.com.

While the event center represents the ranch’s future growth, horses remain at the heart of the operation.

Split Oak Ranch currently offers full boarding services, pasture boarding, riding lessons for beginners through advanced riders, horse training and access to a full-size lighted rodeo arena. The property also features approximately 18 acres of wooded riding trails and another 10 acres of open riding space. Demand has grown so rapidly that the ranch has established a waiting list for lessons and is exploring the purchase of additional horses to expand its program.

The ranch has already undergone extensive upgrades since the ownership change.

Improvements include new arena lighting, upgraded irrigation systems, fencing replacements, expanded tack room facilities and improvements to horse stalls and pasture areas. Ranch officials said roughly 3,700 feet of fencing has already been replaced as part of the ongoing improvements.

For Nicole DeJesus, the ranch represents more than a business venture.

She said the family’s involvement with horses began through their daughter, who developed an interest in horseback riding at an early age. After moving to Florida from Texas, the family searched for riding opportunities and eventually became immersed in the local equestrian community.

Their daughter now competes in barrel racing events, but Nicole said the family’s interest eventually grew into a desire to preserve a place where children and adults alike could learn about horses.

“We didn’t want to see it shut down,” Nicole DeJesus said. “We wanted a place for kids to come, for adults to come, to learn how to ride a horse and learn about the care of a horse.”

The couple said one of their primary goals is to create a gathering place where residents can reconnect with the out doors.

“We want everyone to be a part of it,” Neftali DeJe sus said. “We want to share this with the community so everyone has a place to come be out in nature and enjoy it.”

Neftali DeJesus said the ranch has already seen

firsthand how horses can positively impact people’s lives. He recalled one lesson student with nonverbal autism who has begun expanding her vocabulary through interactions with horses and riding lessons.

The owners hope the facility becomes a place where residents can experience not only horseback riding but also the benefits of spending time outdoors and connecting with animals.

The property regularly hosts ranch nights and equestrian competitions, attracting anywhere from 100 to 300 participants and spectators. The events include barrel racing, pole bending and other rodeo-style competitions for riders of varying skill levels. Food trucks, concession stands and family activities are part of many of the events hosted at the ranch.

Beyond equestrian activities, the owners envision farmers markets, food truck rallies, car shows, homeschool programs, 4-H activities and community gatherings taking place on the property. The ranch has also offered the future event center to local organizations,

Sheriff’s Office, for meetings and training sessions.

The property also contains one of Flagler County’s oldest surviving homesteads. According to the owners, the home dates back more than a century and is connected to several longtime farming and ranching families in the area.

Surrounded by hundreds of mature live oak trees, some estimated to be between 100 and 300 years old, the ranch’s owners believe the property’s natural setting is one of its greatest assets.

Future plans include additional gathering spaces, a lounge area, offices, expanded tack facilities and outdoor ceremony areas designed to take advantage of the property’s scenic views and sprawling oak canopy.

“This isn’t something we’re buying as our private oasis,” Neftali DeJesus said. “We want people to come experience it.”

With construction nearing completion and bookings already underway, the DeJesus family hopes Split Oak Ranch will become a destination where residents can experience rural Flagler County while creating a new gathering

Beach Shores location earlier this spring, according to a press release.

the Bowler and Ufheil families, founders of Daytona Beverages, as the 2026 Herbert M. Davidson Honorees at this year’s Annual Celebration of Philanthropy on June 3 at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. The organization also rec-

ognized Ida Babazadeh as the 2026 Community Champion. A heartfelt tribute to her was delivered by her cousin, Nellie Lupoli, a past Community Champion recipient The event brought together leaders, philanthropists, and community partners to celebrate the generosity and impact throughout Volusia and Flagler Counties. Among the evening’s most memorable moments were inspiring tributes from Kelly Kwiatek, Chief Legal Counsel of Halifax Health, and Hyatt Brown, both longtime friends of the Bowler and Ufheil families, who shared stories highlighting the recipients’ character, leadership, and commitment to giving back.

Proceeds from this event benefit the Daytona Beverages Community First Fund, established in honor of the Bowler and Ufheil families to provide practical, life-changing support for individuals and families throughout our community.

FPL to trim 222 miles of trees along power lines in Ormond Beach

Florida Power & Light plans to complete several infrastructure improvements in Ormond Beach in 2026 in its mission to reduce outages and allow for faster power restoration following major storms.

According to a press release, FPL is planning to:

„ Trim trees and vegetation impacting 222 miles of power lines.

„ Inspect 720 power poles, strengthening or replacing those that no longer meet FPL’s standards.

Coldwell Banker relocates in Ormond

Coldwell Banker Premier Properties is relocating its Ormond Beach operations to the Ormond Towne Square shopping center, at 1462 W. Granada Blvd., Suite 220. This comes after the company opened a new Daytona

“Our move to Ormond Towne Square is all about enhancing how we serve the people who matter most, our customers,” said Thomas Heiser, managing broker. “We’ve designed this contemporary office to be an inviting, accessible space for the community to connect with our team. Coldwell Banker Premier Properties has deep roots in Ormond Beach, and though we’ve moved to a new address, we are still the same experienced, local agents who know and love this community.”

To celebrate this milestone, CBPP will host a baseballthemed “Red, White, and Coldwell Banker Blue” Grand Opening Celebration from 1-6 p.m. on Friday, June 12. The community-wide event will feature a ribbon cutting Ceremony at 3 p.m., alongside real estate insights, refreshments and family-friendly festivities.

B-CU to host Day of Giving fundraiser

Bethune-Cookman University will host its annual 24-hour Day of Giving campaign on Thursday, June 18, with a goal to raise $200,000.

“The Big Give Back” initiative is designed to rally alumni, students, faculty, staff and community supporters to invest in the future of the

To support local commerce, CBPP is also launching a shoplocal campaign where people can pick up a “Home Run Card” from now through June 12. Collect stamps by visiting participating retail stores and businesses within Ormond Towne Square. Completed cards will be entered to win a prize package with baseball-themed goodies, trading cards, gameday swag, and five tickets to a Daytona Tortugas home game. The drawing will take place at 5 p.m. on June 12.

(Left to right) CEO Courtney Edgcomb with Kevin Bowler, Jennie Bowler, Maja Bowler and Chris Bowler. Courtesy Photos

2026 Community Champion Ida Babazadeh

The future 5,000-square-foot agritourism event center takes shape at Split Oak Ranch. The building is expected to host weddings, fundraisers and community events. Courtesy photo

Naftali and Nicole DeJesus pose at Split Oak Ranch, where they are leading efforts to expand the property’s equestrian programs and create a new gathering place for the Flagler County community.

A historic homestead believed to be more than a century old stands on the grounds of Split Oak Ranch. Photos by Rich Carroll

SPORTS

Seven, not eleven

he’s familiar with most of the players, having coached them in the Ormond Beach Soccer Club.

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Chris Simsek, Seabreeze High School’s new boys soccer coach, was among the coaches who sang the praises of the high school 7v7 summer soccer league at Indian Trails Sports Complex in Palm Coast.

The weekly league opened on Friday, June 8, with four girls games and four boys games.

“As you can tell, I’m not from here,” said Simsek who grew up in England. “And it always makes me smile how the soccer season just comes to an end, and then that’s it, for like six months. So, this kind of stuff is massively beneficial for these boys.”

Simsek and assistants Dylan Reed and Brandt Herron

“We came on board as management, literally about 10 days ago, so we haven’t practiced, we haven’t met the team, so it’s just an opportunity to get to see the boys, and let them play,” he said.

The league will continue through July 31 with games on Friday nights. Nine boys and nine girls teams are participating representing Seabreeze, Flagler Palm Coast, Matanzas, First Baptist Christian Academy, Menendez, St. Joseph Academy and Palatka.

Each of the teams have their own name. Many have their own T-shirts for the league emblazoned with their team names.

“We’ve been doing this league for a handful of years,” FPC girls soccer coach Pete Hald said. “We use this to have fun and get lots of touches on

The FPC girls have two teams — The Flagler Troublemakers with mostly varsity players and the Flagler Knuckleheads which includes a handful of a strong incoming freshman class, Hald said.

The two FPC girls teams each have 14 players, enough for two seven-person squads to rotate in and out of the

The girls teams are divided into varsity and JV divisions, but the boys have one division with the teams mixed or separated anyway they want, said FPC boys soccer coach Ramtin Amiri, who has run the league since it started nine years ago.

The Troublemakers defeated the Seabreeze Big Pinchers,

“Flagler is solid always, so I’m not displeased with how we played,” said Christine Goebel, who has been the Sandcrabs’ assistant girls coach. She is coaching the teams this summer with Seabreeze not yet nam-

“We’ve been doing this league for a handful of years. We use this to have fun and get lots of touches on Friday nights.”

PETE HALD, FPC girls soccer coach

ing a new head girls coach to replace Eli Freidus.

“This league keeps them in shape,” Goebel said. “It’s fun, it’s competitive, and I’m glad we have a JV team and a varsity team.”

Seabreeze’s girls JV team, the Crimson Claws, defeated FPC’s second team, 5-3.

Seabreeze’s boys program has just one team in the league. The Breeze Boys led the Matanzas squad 3-0 before Matanzas tied it up by halftime. Breeze scored the lone goal of the second half.

The Matanzas boys graduated 19 varsity players this year, so both of their summer league teams are young.

“We’ve included some (incoming) freshmen into this group,” Matanzas boys coach Beto Aguilar said of the Haki Oscuro team. “I think that can bring a little bit of breath of fresh air for the upcoming season. I told the boys, we’re going to have mistakes, but we can build from it. When you have new players coming in, there’s going to be gaps,

but I think overall there’s good potential for us, there’s a good future.”

The FPC boys won both of their games. Palms FC 2

defeated Matanzas Armada 3-0 and Palms FC 1 beat Pedro (Menendez) Soccer 5-3.

In the other boys game, the Palatka Panthers edged the FBCA Crusaders 2-1. In the other girls games, the Bounty Hunters of Matanzas defeated the FBCA Crusaders 3-0, and the Lightning Bolts of St. Joseph defeated the Matanzas Bounty Hunters 2.0 team, 5-2.

“Ramtin does a great job with this league,” Simsek said.

“It’s always good when the players get on the grass.”

PAGE 9B

“It always makes me smile how the soccer season just comes to an end, and then that’s it, for like six months. So, this kind of stuff is massively beneficial for these boys.”

Seabreeze’s Luke Clayton (left) tries to dribble past Matanzas’ Michael Petkovsek.

Breeze Boys keeper Finn Kimble kicks the ball out. Photos by Brent Woronoff

First Baptist Christian Academy’s Ethan Bobovcan and Mikey Castillo (in orange) in a game against Palatka.

Matanzas goalkeeper Ella Forbes kicks the ball out.

7v7 soccer league helps fill the summer gap.

CHRIS SIMSEK, New Seabreeze boys soccer coach MORE PHOTOS

FPC baseball coach Kyle Marsh steps down

Marsh led the Bulldogs to the regional playoffs in three out of four years.

BRENT WORONOFF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Flagler Palm Coast High School baseball coach Kyle Marsh has stepped down, athletic director Scott Drabczyk has confirmed on Thursday, June 4.

“He’s looking at other professional opportunities outside of the area,” Drabczyk said. “That’s what he shared with us. And I respect that.”

Marsh did not respond to requests for comment.

Marsh has been the head baseball coach at FPC for four years, winning one district championship and leading the Bulldogs to the regional playoffs in three out of four years. He led FPC to its first Five Star Conference baseball tournament title in 2024 with wins against Seabreeze, Spruce Creek and Pine Ridge.

Marsh is also a head coach with the Orlando Scorpions travel baseball program, led by his former high school coach, Johnny Goodrich. Marsh graduated from Spruce Creek High in 2014.

As a high school sophomore, he led the Hawks to their first state championship in 2012, pitching to an 11-0 record with a 0.35 earned run average. He played college baseball as an

compiled a 56-55 overall record at FPC, finishing with a winning record in three out of four seasons.

“Kyle has been very successful for us,” Drabczyk said. “He’s worked very hard to put our program into a very respectful state throughout the area.”

Drabczyk said Marsh has also done a great job in helping players find a place to play at the next level, whether in Divison I, Division II or junior college.

Drabczyk said FPC will post the job next week.

“We’re starting the process [of advertising for a new coach],” he said. “We’re looking for someone who is going to continue the direction of where the program has been going the past few years.”

pieces, which includes field maintenance, he said.

“Kyle did an amazing job working on our facility and our field,” Drabczyk said. “He’s got great vision for facilities and branding. Go onto our field — the playing surface, if not the best, is one of the two best playing surfaces in Volusia, Flagler and St. Johns counties.”

High school head coaching experience is not a requirement, he said.

SIDELINES

Mainland AD named FHSAA Male Educator of the Year

Mainland High School athletic director Terrence Anthony was named Male Educator of the Year at the Florida High School Athletic Association’s FLASHY (Florida Leadership & Athletic Sports Honors Yearly) awards show on Sunday, June 7.

McFall is one of the first three members of Tusculum’s team joining another freshman and a transfer from Carter’s Mars Hill team, McFall said.

USA Weightlifting governs college Olympic weightlifting, which is growing as a varsity sport with more schools offering scholarships.

McFall said Tusculum is in “kind of a dream location” for him.

infielder and pitcher at the University of Central Florida (2014-17) and at Embry-Riddle (2017-19). While still playing at Embry-Riddle, Marsh began coaching a youth travel team, Florida Extreme Baseball.

Marsh was an assistant coach at FPC under head coach Anthony Campanella in 2022 and was named the Bulldogs’ head coach after Campanella stepped down at the end of the season. In his first season in 2023, Marsh led the Bulldogs to their first distrist title in eight years. This season, FPC posted its best record under Marsh with a 16-11 mark. Marsh

Drabczyk said in hiring coaches, the Bulldogs look for mentors who love the process of developing young men and women.

“We want them to love practice, love preparing,” he said. “We want transformational coaches, not transactional people. Transformational coaches want to pour into young people, trying to make them better human beings prepared to take on life after high school. Coaches that believe in the process and believe in development are typically the ones who are going to be most successful when it comes to wins and losses.”

Baseball has some added

“We’re never going to paint ourselves in a corner when we’re looking for a candidate,” Drabczyk said. “I do think you have to have a high level of experience. But baseball is a little unique. You have lot of guys who play for a while professionally. We’re going to look at the full body of work, the full resume. Do they meet the Bulldogs’ standard? We’ve hired some coaches who have not had head coaching experience, and they’ve thrived.”

“We’re starting the process [of advertising for a new coach]. We’re looking for someone who is going to continue the direction of where the program has been going the past few years.”

SCOTT DRABCZYK, FPC

Anthony has dedicated 30 years to his high school alma mater as track and field coach, assistant football coach and athletic director. In 2021, Anthony was named the Volusia County School District’s first Mentor of the Year.

He said that he is honored to win the award, but it’s not just about him.

“My mission is to change lives,” he said. “I’m so happy that I have so many coaches under me who have the same vision. It’s not about the wins and losses. It’s about the kids.”

Pirates softball camp on tap

The Matanzas Lady Pirates Summer Softball Camp is scheduled for June 16-17, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The camp will be led by Pirates alumni and coaches with college experience, including Emma Wood, who just finished her college career as a two-way standout at Embry-Riddle, and St. Johns River State College third baseman Juliet Fogel.

Matanzas head softball coach Sabrina Manhart is a National Fastpitch Coaches Association four-star certified coach who is a former college coach and Division I player. Cost for the camp is $125 with discounts upon request for siblings and teams with at least six players. Register at https://bit.ly/4vxTRx3. More info: email manharts@ flaglerschools.com

McFall receives weightlifting scholarship

Flagler Palm Coast state weightlifting champ Matt McFall will attend Tusculum University in Greeneville, Tennessee, under a full weightlifting scholarship.

McFall is FPC’s first weightlifter to receive a full scholarship for the emerging college sport.

Tusculum announced in April that it is starting Olympic weightlifting as a new club sport. Jared Carter, who was hired weeks earlier from Mars Hill University as Tusculum’s director of sports performance, will coach the weightlifting team.

“He just recently recruited me wanting to kickstart the program,” McFall said. “It completely came out of nowhere.”

PopINTO PARADISE

Join us each month for Pop into Paradise – a warm, welcoming luncheon designed just for seniors and their families

want a relaxed, no-pressure way to explore assisted living at Paradise Pointe. This month, enjoy delicious BBQ bites,

lemonade, and a laid-back atmosphere that captures the joy of summer.

“My grandparents have a cabin not too far from there in North Carolina,” he said.

“It’s a beautiful location for a campus up in the mountains.” McFall won the Class 3A Olympic title in the unlimited weight class last month, setting a school-record with a 660-pound total in the snatch and clean and jerk.

More than 150 teams expected at lacrosse tourney

More than 150 youth lacrosse teams are expected to compete in the 18th annual Father’s Day Invitational on June 20-21 at Palm Coast’s Indian Trails Sports Complex. The Florida United Lacrosse event features boys and girls divisions form 8U to high school level. Admission is free for spectators.

The Father’s Day Lacrosse Invitational is one of three annual Florida United Lacrosse tournaments in Palm Coast. The others are the Great Pumpkin Shootout and the Veteran’s Day Invitational.

“For 18 years, this tournament has brought athletes and families from across Florida to Palm Coast, and we’re proud to continue that tradition,” James Hirst, Palm Coast’s director of Parks and Recreation, said in a press release. “Events like this showcase our outstanding sports facilities, generate significant economic impact for local businesses, and create memorable experiences for players, parents, and visitors alike.” The city estimates that the tournament will generate about $1.8 million in economic impact through hotels, dining and other spending by visitors.

Palm Harbor golf family night Palm Harbor Golf Club in Palm Coast will host a Family Night on June 12. Special family packages include the Loop — four holes for $5 per person with tee times available 4:30-7 p.m.; and the Sunset nine — nine holes at $10 per person with tee times available 4:30-6 p.m. Each tee time accommodates up to four players. Larger families can reserve multiple tee times together. Reserve a tee time with the pro shop at 386-9864653.

• A guided tour of our community • The chance to meet our leadership team, caregivers, and residents • Fun giveaways and seasonal surprises • The perfect opportunity to experience the Paradise Pointe difference

Kyle Marsh led FPC to a district championship in his first season as the Bulldogs’ head coach in 2023. File photo by Jake Montgomery

FPC’s Samatha Burgos

Matanzas’ Micah Reynolds

Seabreeze’s Kara Kaiser

Matanzas’ Isabella Hopkins passes the ball.

Matanzas’ Tanner Lagocki battles for the ball.

Matanzas’ Sofia Picozzi (right) tries to keeps the ball away from a St. Joseph Lightning Bolts player.

Matanzas’ Matthew Ciminera (right) marks Seabreeze’s Lane Meyer.

GED® PREPARATION

$50/Semester

$32/GED® Sub-Test

These courses are designed to prepare adults to successfully pass the complete battery of the GED® subject area tests. After successfully passing all four subtests, the student earns a Florida High School Diploma.

FTC offers In-Person Classroom Learning experiences with a robust variety of resources to help students reach their goals.

Virtual Classroom learning and Independent Learning are also offered with instructor permission.

GED® preparation courses are designed to assist students with preparing for each of the four subtest subjects: Reasoning through Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, and Mathematical Reasoning.

NOTE: AGE REQUIREMENTS: Students 18 years or older may take the GED® exam without pretest requirements. Students 16/17 years of age - According to the rules of the local school board, persons who are at least 16 years of age may be permitted to take the tests under extraordinary circumstances, Section 1003.435(4), F.S. However, 16/17 year old students (permitted to take the tests), must register at a qualified GED® prep program, take and pass the online GED® Practice Tests in order to schedule the GED® exam.

Flagler Technical College

County, FL 32110, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated 6/8/2026. Marbelle, LLC 7763-348814 Jun. 11, 2026 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION IN RE: ESTATE OF SHIRLEY ANN BURCH, DECEDENT. CASE NO: 2026 CP 000284 NOTICE TO CREDITORS (INTESTATE)

The administration of the Estate of Shirley Ann Burch, Deceased, whose date of death was February 19, 2026; Case Number 2026 CP 000284, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Kim C Hammond Justice Center, 1769 E Moody Blvd, Bldg 1, Bunnell, FL 32110. The name and address of the Personal Representative are William Joseph Burch Sr, 1422 Edge Drive, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582, and the name and address of the Personal Representative's attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against Decedent's Estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the Decedent and persons having claims or demands against the Decedent's Estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS, DEMANDS AND OBJECTIONS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the Decedent’s death by the Decedent or the Decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The date of the first publication of this Notice is June 11, 2026. CARR LAW GROUP, P.A. Lee R. Carr, II, Esquire 200 Central Avenue, Suite 400 St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Voice: 727-894-7000; Fax: 727-8214042 Primary email address: lcarr@ carrlawgroup.com Secondary email address: pcardinal@

address of which is 1769 East Moody Blvd., Building 1, Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against Decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against Decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is June 11, 2026. /s/ Lloyd Bowers, Esquire LLOYD BOWERS, ESQUIRE Florida Bar No. 135607 CHRISTOPHER W. WICKERSHAM, SR., ESQUIRE Florida Bar No. 149722 WICKERSHAM & BOWERS Post Office Drawer 2250 Daytona Beach, FL 32115-2250 Telephone: (386) 252-3000 Facsimile: (386) 239-5133 Primary: lbowers@wickershamandbowers.com Secondary: randi@wickershamandbowers.com

Personal Representative Mark Coppola-Fay 7763-335363 Jun. 11, 18, 2026

THE CITY OF FLAGLER BEACH PROPOSES TO ADOPT THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCES ENTITLED: ORDINANCE 2026-12 Ordinance 2026-12. An Ordinance of the City of Commission of the City of Flagler Beach, Florida, amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Flagler Beach related to credits and adjustments to utility bills; providing for severability, codification, conflicts, and an effective date Public Hearings will be conducted to consider the amendments as follows: City Commission: Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. or soon thereafter The public hearings may be continued to a future date or dates. The times and dates of any continuance of a public hearing shall be announced during the public hearing without any further published notice. The request will be heard at 5:30 PM, or as soon thereafter as possible, in the City Commission Chambers located at 105 South Second Street, Flagler Beach, Florida. If a person decides to appeal any decision made with respect to any matter considered at the above referenced hearings, he/she will need a record of the proceedings. For such purposes, it may be necessary to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons needing assistance to participate in any of these proceedings should contact the City Clerk’s Office at 386-5172000 Ext. 233 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. 7763-348144 Jun. 11, 2026 GRAND HAVEN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT NOTICE OF BOARD OF SUPERVISORS REGULAR MEETING

Notice is hereby given that a regular meeting of the Board of Supervisors of the Grand Haven Community Development District (the “District ”) will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at the Grand Haven Village Center, Grand Haven Room, 2001 Waterside Parkway, Palm Coast, Florida 32137. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss any topics presented to the board for consideration. Copies of the agenda may be obtained from the District Manager, Vesta District Services, 250 International Parkway, Suite 208, Lake Mary, Florida 32746, Telephone (321) 263 0132, Ext. 193. The meeting is open to the public and will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Florida law for community development districts. The meeting may be continued in progress without additional notice to a date, time, and place to be specified on the record at the meeting. There may be occasions when Staff and/or Supervisors may participate by speaker telephone. Pursuant to provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person

requiring special accommodations to participate in the meeting is asked to advise the District Manager’s office at least forty-eight (48) hours before the meeting by contacting the District Manager at (321) 263-0132, Ext. 193.

If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the Florida Relay Service at 711, for assistance in contacting the District Manager’s office.

A person who decides to appeal any decision made at the meeting, with respect to any matter considered at the meeting, is advised that a record of the proceedings is needed and that accordingly, the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. Grand Haven Community Development District David McInnes, District Manager (321) 263-0132, Ext. 193 7763-348753 Jun. 11, 2026

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR SPECIAL USE PROJECT #2026040066

A request has been made by Mike Burkhead for a Special Use Approval for a Telecommunications Tower on land owned by Kevin James Ferguson located at 2512 Orange Street, Parcel No. 19-1229-5550-00080-0010. The subject property lies in the MH-1 (Rural Mobile Home) District. Special

Uses may be permitted in any zoning district provided application is made to the Planning and Development Board for its review and recommendation to the County Commission for final decision. Public hearings on the above-captioned matter will be held as follows: PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT BOARD – July 14, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible in the Flagler County Government Services Building, Board Chambers, 1769 E. Moody Boulevard, Bldg. 2, Bunnell, Florida 32110 for recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS August 17, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible in the Flagler County Government Services Building, Board Chambers, 1769 E. Moody Boulevard, Bldg. 2, Bunnell, Florida 32110 for final decision. All interested persons are urged to attend the public hearing and be heard. Anyone wishing to express their opinion may attend, telephone 386-313-4009 or write to: Flagler County Planning Department, 1769 E. Moody Blvd, Building 2, Bunnell, FL 32110 or email to planningdept@flaglercounty.gov. Please reference application number above. Copies of the application, supporting data and analysis, staff reports and other pertinent information are available for review at the Flagler County Planning & Zoning Dept., 1769 East Moody Boulevard, Building 2, Bunnell, Florida 32110, telephone (386) 313-4009. IF A PERSON DECIDES TO APPEAL ANY DECISION MADE BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WITH RESPECT TO ANY MATTER CONSIDERED AT THE MEETING, A RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS MAY BE NEEDED AND, FOR SUCH PURPOSES, THE PERSON MAY NEED TO ENSURE THAT A VERBATIM RECORD IS MADE, WHICH RECORD INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY AND EVIDENCE UPON WHICH APPEAL IS TO BE BASED. IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT, PERSONS NEEDING ASSISTANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN ANY OF THESE PROCEEDINGS SHOULD CONTACT THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT AT LEAST 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING.

7763-348824

Jun. 11, 2026

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that FIG 20, LLC the holder of the following certificate(s) has filed said certificate(s) for a tax deed to be issued thereon. The certificate number(s) and year of issuance, the description of the property, and the names in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No:2024 / 1390 Year of Issuance:2024 Description of Property: Lot 9 of Block 13, of PALM COAST, Map of PINE GROVE, Section 28, according to the plat thereof, as recorded in Map Book 9, at Page 54, of the Public Records of Flagler County, Florida.

Name in which assessed:

JIAR HUA MING, YAO HUA KUNG

All of said property being in the County of Flagler, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificate(s) will be sold to the highest bidder via an electronic auction accessible from https://flaglerclerk.gov/ TaxDeedAuction on the 11th day of

August, 2026 at 9 a.m. Tom Bexley

Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller of Flagler County, FL By: Jannet Dewberry, Deputy Clerk File # 26-026 TDC

7763-348829

Jun. 11, Jul. 9, 16, 23, 2026

IN THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT

IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA

IN RE: ESTATE OF GEORGE DEWEY LYLE, III, DECEASED. FILE NO. 2026-CP- 000280

DIVISION PROBATE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of GEORGE DEWEY LYLE, III, deceased, whose date of death was April 18, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Bunnell, FL 32110-5991. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate, on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served, must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOT WITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM NOT FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is June 4, 2026. Signed on the 5th day of May, 2026. /s/ Emily K. Crain Evans

Emily K. Crain Evans Attorney for Personal Representative Florida Bar No. 114392 GrayRobinson, P.A. P.O. Box 3 Lakeland, Florida 33802-0003

Telephone: (863)284-2206

Email: Emily.Crain@gray-robinson. com

2nd: Pamela.Doherty@gray-robinson. com /s/ George Dewey GEORGE DEWEY LYLE, II Personal Representative 19 Avenue De La Mer, Unit 301 Palm Coast, Florida 32137 7763-347713 Jun. 4, 11, 2026

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that DAVID DIBARTOLOMEO the holder of the following certificate(s) has filed said certificate(s) for a tax deed to be issued thereon. The certificate number(s) and year of issuance, the description of the property, and the names in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No:2024 / 373 Year of Issuance:2024 Description of Property: LOT 3, BLOCK 31, DAYTONA NORTH SUBDIVISION, A SUBDIVISION ACCORDING TO THE PLAT OR MAP THEREOF DESCRIBED IN PLAT BOOK 10, AT PAGE(S) 1-15, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. Name in which assessed: VICTORIA DEL VALLE All of said property being in the County of Flagler, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificate(s) will be sold to the highest bidder via an electronic auction accessible from https://flaglerclerk.gov/ TaxDeedAuction on the 14th day of July, 2026 at 9 a.m. Tom Bexley Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller of Flagler County, FL By: Tiffani Smith, Deputy Clerk File # 26-002 TDC 7763-345560 Jun. 4, 11, 18, 25, 2026

2026-13 before the City Commission, in the Chambers Meeting Room of the Bunnell Administration Complex located at 2400 Commerce Pkwy, Bunnell, Florida 32110. ORDINANCE 2026-13 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BUNNELL FLORIDA AMENDING THE CITY OF BUNNELL 2035 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AS PREVIOUSLY AMENDED; PROVIDING FOR THE SMALLSCALE AMENDMENT TO THE FUTURE LAND USE MAP IN THE FUTURE LAND USE ELEMENT OF THE CITY OF BUNNELL 2035 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RELATIVE TO CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY TOTALING 0.29± ACRES IN THE CITY OF BUNNELL LIMITS FROM SINGLE FAMILY-LOW DENSITY (SF-L)" TO INDUSTRIAL (IND)"; PROVIDING FOR LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND INTENT; PROVIDING FOR ASSIGNMENT OF THE LAND USE DESIGNATIONS FOR THE PROPERTY; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR RATIFICATION OF PRIOR ACTS OF THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF MAPS BY REFERENCE; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION AND DIRECTIONS TO THE CODE CODIFIER AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE

DATE ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE as may be legally permitted on the day of the meeting Instructions on how to participate by electronic or other means, if legally permitted, would be found on the City of Bunnell s website at www bunnellcity us on the homepage

The public is advised to check the City' s website for up-to-date information on any changes to the manner in which the meeting will be held and the location

The failure of a person to appear during said hearing and comment on or object to the Ordinance either in person or in writing might preclude the ability of such person to contest the Ordinance at a later date A copy of all pertinent information to this Ordinance can be obtained at the Bunnell Administration Complex, 2400 Commerce Pkwy, Bunnell, FL 32110. Persons with disabilities needing assistance to attend this proceeding should contact the Bunnell City Clerk at (386) 437-7500 x 5 at least 48-business hours prior to the meeting

NOTICE: If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Commission on this matter a recording of the proceeding may be needed and for such purposes the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record is made which includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is based (Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes) 7763-345970 Jun 11, 2026

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION: 53 CASE NO.: 2025 CA 000708 FEDERAL HOME LOAN MORTGAGE CORPORATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE FREDDIE MAC SEASONED LOANS STRUCTURED TRANSACTION TRUST, SERIES 2019-1, Plaintiff, vs. JAIME J. VELASQUEZ A/K/A JAIME V. VELASQUEZ A/K/A JAIME GRISALES; CITY OF PALM COAST, FLORIDA; MARTA C. FERNANDEZ A/K/A MARTHA CECILIA FERNANDEZ; PAOLA VELASQUEZ; ALEXA VELASQUEZ; UNKNOWN TENANT Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to an Order or Final Judgment entered in the above styled cause now pending in said court and as required by Florida Statute 45.031(2), TOM W. BEXLEY as the Clerk of the Circuit Court for FLAGLER County shall sell to the highest and best bidder for cash electronically at www. flagler.realforeclose.com at, 11:00 AM on the 26 day of June, 2026, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 12, BLOCK 70, OF SUBDIVISION PLAT SEMINOLE PARKSECTION 58 SEMINOLE WOODS AT

FIRST INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 2025 CP 000805 Division: 48 In re: Estate of Ronald Parsons, Deceased, The administration of the Estate of Ronald Parsons, deceased, File Number 2025 CP 000805, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Kim C. Hammond Justice Center, 1769 E Moody Blvd, Building 1, Bunnell, FL 32110. The name and addresses of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against Decedent’s estate, including immature, contingent, or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims within this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the Decedent’s estate, including immature, contingent, or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this Court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is June 11, 2026. Personal Representative for the Estate Kristie Lynn Gill 1700 Valley Creek Drive Hillsborough, North Carolina 27278-9800 Attorney for Personal Representative J. Russell Collins Rusty Law, LLC 100 Southpark Blvd., Suite 100 Saint Augustine, Florida 32086-5171 (904) 829-6600 Telephone (888) 395-5034 Facsimile Email: rusty@rustylaw.com June 11, 18, 2026 26-00173G

FIRST INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2026 CP 000149 IN RE: ESTATE OF JOHN THOMAS ROBERTSON

Deceased.

The administration of the estate of John Thomas Robertson, deceased, whose date of death was March 16, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Kim C. Hammond Justice Center, 1769 E Moody Blvd, Bldg 1, Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is June 11, 2026. Personal Representative: Cathy Robertson 135 Lilac Lane Chalfont, Pennsylvania 18914

Attorney for Personal Representative: Long H. Duong

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 11857 11 NW 33rd Court Gainesville, FL 32607 Telephone: (352) 371-2670 Fax: (866) 440-9154 E-Mail: long@ldlegal.com June 11, 18, 2026 26-00172G

FIRST INSERTION Notice Under Fictitious

intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated this 4th day of June, 2026 Joshua P Brown June 11, 2026 26-00174G

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION: 53 CASE NO.: 2025 CA 000721 U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BINOM SECURITIZATION TRUST 2022-INV1, Plaintiff, vs. ZANDER HOLDING GROUP, LLC A/K/A PALM COAST HOLDING GROUP LLC; JAY TODD BUCH; BRIAN RUTHERFORD; UNKNOWN TENANT Defendants.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to an Order or Final Judgment entered in the above styled cause now pending in said court and as required by Florida Statute 45.031(2), TOM W. BEXLEY as the Clerk of the Circuit Court for FLAGLER County shall sell to the highest and best bidder for cash electronically at www. flagler.realforeclose.com at, 11:00 AM on the 17 day of July, 2026, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: Lot 8, Block 7, of Palm Coast, Map of Country Club Cove, Section 8, a subdivision according to the plat or map thereof, described in Map Book 6, Page 29, of the Public Records of Flagler County, Florida; as amended by instrument recorded in Official Records Book 35, at Page 528, of the Public Records of Flagler County, Florida.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 1 CLARK LN, PALM COAST, FL 32137 IF YOU ARE A PERSON CLAIMING A

SECOND INSERTION

NOTICE OF SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO. 2024 CA 000115 WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Plaintiff, v. MITZI ANN MARTINEZ; ADOLFO MARTINEZ, JR.; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF ADOLFO MARTINEZ, JR.; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF MITZI ANN MARTINEZ; UNKNOWN TENANT 2; UNKNOWN TENANT 1; CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A.

Defendants. Notice is hereby given that, pursuant to the Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered on May 26, 2026, in this cause, in the Circuit Court of Flagler County, Florida, the clerk shall sell the property situated in Flagler County, Florida, described as: LOT 29, BLOCK 19, OF PALM COAST, MAP OF PINE GROVE, SECTION 28, ACCORDING TO PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 9, PAGES 51 THROUGH 66, INCLUSIVE, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. a/k/a 50 POTTERVILLE LN, PALM COAST, FL 32164-6731 at public sale, to the highest and best bidder, for cash, online at www.flagler. realforeclosure.com, on June 26, 2026 beginning at 11:00 AM. Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim before the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed.

If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration, 101 N. Alabama Ave., Ste. D-305, DeLand, FL 32724 (386) 257-6096; Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711. Dated at St. Petersburg, Florida this 28 day of May, 2026. eXL Legal, PLLC Designated Email Address: efiling@exllegal.com 12425 28th Street North, Suite 200 St. Petersburg, FL 33716 Telephone No. (727) 536-4911

Attorney for the Plaintiff /s/ Peter E. Lanning Peter E. Lanning FL Bar: 562221 1000009889 June 4, 11, 2026 26-00165G

SECOND INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2026 CP 000113 Division 48 IN RE: ESTATE OF WILLIAM PAUL ANGRICK II Deceased. The administration of the estate of William Paul Angrick II, deceased, whose date of death was December 11, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 East Moody Blvd., Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty

RIGHT TO FUNDS REMAINING AFTER THE SALE, YOU MUST FILE A CLAIM WITH THE CLERK NO LATER THAN THE DATE THAT THE CLERK REPORTS THE FUNDS AS UNCLAIMED. IF YOU FAIL TO FILE A CLAIM, YOU WILL NOT BE ENTITLED TO ANY REMAINING FUNDS. AFTER THE FUNDS ARE REPORTED AS UNCLAIMED, ONLY THE OWNER OF RECORD AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MAY CLAIM THE SURPLUS.

If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300 Daytona Beach, FL 32114 (386) 257-6096

Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711.

Dated this 01 day of June 2026.

By: /s/ Lindsay Maisonet

Lindsay Maisonet, Esq.

Bar Number: 93156

Submitted by: De Cubas & Lewis, P.A. PO Box 5026

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33310

Telephone: (954) 453-0365

Facsimile: (954) 771-6052

Toll Free: 1-800-441-2438

DESIGNATED PRIMARY E-MAIL FOR SERVICE PURSUANT TO FLA. R. JUD. ADMIN 2.516

eservice@decubaslewis.com

25-02911 June 4, 11, 2026 26-00170G

SECOND INSERTION NOTICE OF SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CA-000526 NATIONAL MAINTENANCE AND, BUILD OUT COMPANY, LLC. A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Plaintiff, vs. RELATED DEVELOPMENT GROUP, LLC. A FLORIDA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, Defendant. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to an Order of Final Judgement of foreclosure dated September 30, 2025, and entered in Case No.: 2025-CA-000526 of the Circuit Court of the Seventh Judicial Circuit in and for Flagler County, Florida, wherein the property will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash at www.flagler. realforeclose.com , the Clerk’s website for on-line auctions at 11:00 a.m. on the 10th day of July, 2026 , the following described property as set forth in said Order or Final Judgement, to wit: UNIT A201, Grand Vista Condominium at Grand Haven, Phase 1, according to the Declaration of Condominium recorded in Official Records Book 2835, page 150, and all exhibits and amendments thereof, Public Records of Flagler County, Florida.

PARCEL ID: 22-11-31-3995-00C10A201

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 455 RIVERFRONT DR. UNIT A201, Palm Coast, Florida 32137

The above is to be published in the Palm Coast Observer. Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens, must file a claim within sixty (60) days after the sale. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodations in order to participate in these proceedings, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provisions of certain assistance. Please contact ADA Coordinator at least 7 days before your scheduled appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.

Respectfully Submitted, Charles R. Pinson, Esq. Pinson Law, P.A. 7821 N. Dale Mabry Hwy, Ste 110 Tampa, FL 33614

Phone: (813) 574-7736

Fax: (813) 200-1057

Charles@pinsonlawpa.com

Fla. Bar No.: 125279

Attorney for Plaintiff June 4, 11, 2026 26-00162G

to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is June 4, 2026. Personal Representative: William P. Angrick III 300 Lambert Avenue Flagler

Attorney for Personal Representative: Diane A. Vidal

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 1008324

CHIUMENTO LAW 145 City Place, Suite 301 Palm Coast,

NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION CASE NO. 2026 CA 000108 ROCKET MORTGAGE, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. RICHARD ANDREWS PRICE; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF RICHARD ANDREWS PRICE; UNKNOWN PERSON(S) IN POSSESSION OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY, Defendant(s) To the following Defendant(s): UNKNOWN PERSON(S) IN POSSESSION OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY 19 LYTTON LANE PALM COAST, FLORIDA 32137 who is evading service of process and the unknown defendants who may be spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, assignees, lienors, creditors, trustees, and all parties claiming an interest by, through, under or against the defendant(s), who are not known to be dead or alive, and all parties having or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property described in the mortgage being foreclosed herein. To the following Defendant(s): RICHARD ANDREWS PRICE (LAST KNOWN ADDRESS) 19 LYTTON LANE PALM COAST, FLORIDA 32137 UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF RICHARD ANDREWS PRICE (LAST KNOWN ADDRESS) 19 LYTTON LANE PALM COAST, FLORIDA 32137 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Foreclosure of Mortgage on the following described property: LOT 22, BLOCK 20, PALM COAST, MAP OF LAKEVIEW, SECTION 37, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 13, PAGES 1 THROUGH 29, INCLUSIVE, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA.

SECOND INSERTION

NOTICE OF SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2025-CA-000526 NATIONAL MAINTENANCE AND, BUILD OUT COMPANY, LLC. A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Plaintiff, vs. RELATED DEVELOPMENT GROUP, LLC. A FLORIDA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, Defendant. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN , pursuant to an Order of Final Judgement of foreclosure dated September 30, 2025, and entered in Case No.: 2025-CA-000526 of the Circuit Court of the Seventh Judicial Circuit in and for Flagler County, Florida, wherein the property will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash at www.flagler. realforeclose.com , the Clerk’s website for on-line auctions at 11:00 a.m. on the 10th day of July, 2026 the following described property as set forth in said Order or Final Judgement, to wit: UNIT A104, Grand Vista Condominium at Grand Haven, Phase 1, according to the Declaration of Condominium recorded in Official Records Book 2835, page 150, and all exhibits and amendments thereof, Public Records of Flagler County, Florida. PARCEL ID: 22-11-31-3995-00C10A104 PROPERTY ADDRESS: 455 RIVERFRONT DR. UNIT A104, Palm Coast, Florida 32137

The above is to be published in the Palm Coast Observer. Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens, must file a claim within sixty (60) days after the sale. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodations in order to participate in these proceedings, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provisions of certain assistance. Please contact ADA Coordinator at least 7 days before your scheduled appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711. Respectfully Submitted, Charles R. Pinson, Esq. Pinson Law, P.A. 7821 N. Dale Mabry Hwy, Ste 110 Tampa, FL 33614 Phone: (813) 574-7736

Fax: (813) 200-1057 Charles@pinsonlawpa.com Fla. Bar No.: 125279 Attorney for Plaintiff June 4, 11, 2026 26-00163G

Rachel Dailey,