Palm Coast Observer 6-25-26

PALM COAST

Palm Coast City Historian Preston Zepp stands near a preserved section of the original Kings Road at Hewitt’s Sawmill Park,

NEWS BRIEFS

DeSantis signs ‘Officer Jason Raynor Act’

The Officer Jason Raynor Act was signed into law by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday, June 16.

Senate Bill 156, named after a fallen Daytona Beach Police officer who was killed in the line of duty in 2021, establishes a mandatory life sentence without the possibility of parole for defendants convicted of killing a law enforcement officer in the state.

Raynor was killed by Othal Wallace, who was sentenced to 30 years in prison in 2023 after he was convicted of manslaughter; the State Attorney’s Office had initially charged him with first degree

murder of a law enforcement officer.

“Officer Raynor’s murder was a dark time for his family and our law enforcement communities,” State Attorney R.J. Larizza said in a press release. “This law brings some much needed protections to law enforcement and honors the life and sacrifice of Officer Raynor.” Larizza and members of the State Attorney’s Office executive team have been advocating for the law in Tallahassee for the past three years, with support from Florida Sen. Tom Leek and Rep. Jessica Baker, the press release states. The bill was signed in Polk County alongside Raynor’s family and members of DBPD.

Three human trafficking victims rescued in Flagler

Three human trafficking victims were rescuerd in Op-

eration Innocence Shield, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office. There were also 10 arrests and numerous seizures.

From June 10 to 14, the FCSO Cyber Crimes Unit conducted a series of undercover operations in coordination with several other agencies.

As part of the investigation, detectives focused on individuals seeking to purchase sex services from online ads.

The final phase of the operation is ongoing. Based on interviews and forensic examination of digital evidence conducted by the FCSO Digital Forensics Unit, detectives have identified and are investigating three human sex traffickers.

“Operation Innocence Shield identified and rescued victims from the nightmarish world of human sex trafficking. Rescuing even one victim from being trafficked is priceless; this operation liberated

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

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COMMERCIAL OFFICE - 386-253-8565

140 S. Atlantic Ave., Suite 202, Ormond Beach, FL 32176

DAYTONA BEACH SHORES OFFICE - 386-766-SOLD (7653)

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SHORT SALE! 3rd party approval required. Updated

2BR/2BA home in gated Tymber Creek. Features cathedral ceilings, wood-look tile, sunken living room with fireplace, & a chef’s granite kitchen. Primary suite has a spa-like bath & private deck. Complete with a fenced yard, 2-car garage, & new AC. Bring offers! #1216575 $239,000. Pam Harvey 386-846-5051.

Ormond Beach Pool Home! This beautifully updated 3BR/2BA residence sits on a rare oversized lot with NO HOA restrictions. Step inside to a bright, renovated layout. The massive, fully-fenced backyard features a sparkling swimming pool and plenty of room for your boat and RV. Near Riviera Country Club. Bring your toys! #1226180 $355,000. Jennifer Himmelstein 386-212-6397.

TRAILS

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

14th-Floor Luxury at Towers Grande! Fully furnished 2BR/2BA condo showcasing sweeping views of the Atlantic & Intracoastal. Features an updated quartz kitchen, tile floors, and dual private suites. Enjoy oceanfront balcony breezes and resort amenities: 2 pools, 2 spas, and a gym. Never rented & move-in ready! #1227473 $535,000. Bonnie Karet 386-295-2109.

three, and we may continue to be able to help more as the investigation continues,” Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly said. Staly encourages residents to help save human trafficking victims by visiting the National Human Trafficking Hotline’s website and learning to recognize the signs of human trafficking. If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, report it by calling 911, the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888, or the Florida Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-855-352-7233.

Volusia County Corrections grows GED program

Volusia County’s Corrections Division is enhancing its existing GED preparation program by adding on-site testing, allowing eligible inmates to complete the certification process without having to leave the facility.

The Corrections Division has long offered GED preparation classes as part of its educational and reentry programming. However, inmates who completed coursework and were ready to take the GED exam had to be transported to Daytona State College for testing.

Like other educational and reentry initiatives offered through the Corrections Division, the program is financed through inmate commissary purchases.

COPS CORNER

JUNE 18 A BAD EXIT STRATEGY

2:43 p.m. — Interstate 95 southbound at State Road 100, Palm Coast Road rage. A 70-year-old Palm Coast woman was arrested after deputies say a minor traffic crash escalated into a physical confrontation at the State Road 100 exit ramp.

According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, the woman and a 76-year-old man were involved in a minor collision while exiting Interstate 95. The man told deputies the woman got out of her vehicle, approached his car, opened the driver’s side door and struck him in the face before driving away without exchanging information.

Two independent witnesses provided statements supporting the victim’s account.

JUNE 19

LANDLORD BREAK-IN

11:50 a.m. — 500 block of Collins Street, Ormond Beach Civil complaint. Police responded to a home after receiving a call regarding a burglary that had occurred the previous day. Upon arrival, a woman told police that her landlord — whom she had a handwritten lease with on

Groth is Bunnell’s first FBI National Academy graduate

Bunnell Police Department

Lt. Shane Groth graduated Thursday, June 18, from the 298th Session of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.

This achievement marks a first for the Bunnell Police Department.

City Manager Dr. Alvin Jackson, Chief of Police David Brannon, and Lt. Groth’s wife attended the graduation ceremony in Quantico to support and celebrate this milestone.

The FBI National Academy graduates represent an elite group of senior-level law enforcement professionals, often recognized as among the top 1% of law enforcement leaders.

Groth was born in California and moved with his family to the Daytona Beach area as an infant. He began his law enforcement career in 2009 as a Reserve Police Officer with the Daytona Beach Police Department.

In 2013, Lt. Groth joined the Bunnell Police Department and has more than 17 years of law enforcement experience.

104 defrauded Seabreeze students to get paid back

A Massachusetts travel agency owner who defrauded

a sheet of loose-leaf paper — had been calling her cell phone and showing up unannounced because she and her roommate were two months behind on rent.

On June 18, the woman’s roommate said he witnessed the landlord enter the home through a window in the backyard, and as he yelled about the late rent, he kicked her 11-year-old Chihuahua because the dog was barking, an incident report states. They declined to press charges, however, citing their landlord’s age (he is 93).

Police contacted the landlord, who said that he tried to enter the home through a window, but that the roommate let him in when he heard noise coming from the backyard.

JUNE 21

PLOWING THROUGH

11:44 p.m. — 2300 block of Chretien Drive, Ormond Beach Vandalism. A 39-year-old Ormond Beach resident selfreported that he had driven through his neighborhood’s community gate with his golf cart after having issues with it. According to a police report, the man called 911 about an hour after he drove through the entry gate, stating it had failed to open for him and admitting he had been under the influence of alcohol at the time of the

104 Seabreeze High School students out of $400,000 for a 2024 international trip was ordered by a judge on June 22 to pay students back. Robert Goodwin, arrested in December 2025 on two grand theft charges, was sentenced to time served (180 days) and 25 years of probation during the hearing. He pleaded no contest to charges, and, as part of his sentencing, he was ordered to pay $637,260 in restitution — which includes the funds also misappropriated from students at Flagler College in St. Augustine. According to a press release, Goodwin paid $194,000 in restitution upfront, to be split among the Seabreeze and Flagler College victims. “Folks must use due diligence when booking travel with brokers to ensure that their plans come to fruition,” State Attorney R.J. Larizza said following the sentencing. “In this case, the victims are fortunate that a sizable amount of restitution was paid up front.” In 2023, a group of Seabreeze students and chaperones signed up with Goodwin’s travel agency — Stone and Compass Travel — for a nine-day class trip to Italy and Greece in June 2024. Each traveler paid a minimum of $3,550 in travel fees up front. One month before the trip, the agency notified them by email that it was going out of business and didn’t have the money for refunds.

incident. Once police arrived, they noticed the gate was detached from its support poles and lying on the ground. The man told officers that he had gone to the store earlier and had issues with the gate, but was able to exit the community. But upon his return, the gate failed to open and caused him to become frustrated, so he drove through it. Police await contact with the community’s homeowners association to see if charges will be pursued.

GUTTER BALL

2:30 a.m. — Elder Street, Bunnell DUI. A 23-year-old Palm Coast woman was arrested after deputies say she struck a culvert, fence and mailbox while driving drunk and nearly caused a head-on collision. When asked about the extensive front-end damage, the woman reportedly told deputies the vehicle “had been like that.” Deputies observed signs of impairment, including glassy eyes, slurred speech and a strong odor of alcohol. They also noted her shirt appeared wet and stained with vomit. The woman told deputies she was traveling from a bowling alley in Palm Coast to a friend’s house. She later failed field sobriety exercises and was arrested on a charge of driving under the influence.

HIDDEN HISTORY

Behind Palm Coast development, the original Kings Road still tells Florida’s story.

RICH

CARROLL

PRODUCER

MULTIMEDIA

Thousands of motorists travel Old Kings Road every day, passing subdivisions, shopping centers and intersections that have become familiar landmarks of modern Palm Coast.

Few realize that hidden behind the development, beneath a canopy of oaks and cypress trees, portions of the original Kings Road still survive — a colonial transportation corridor that predates the United States itself.

On a recent tour of Hewitt’s Sawmill Park, Palm Coast City Historian Preston Zepp led me along remnants of the historic route, explaining how the road helped shape East Florida more than 250 years ago and why preserving what’s left has become increasingly important as Flagler County continues to grow.

“This was the first superhighway that was built through Florida,” Zepp said. “Think of it like I-95 of its day.”

The comparison may seem surprising to anyone familiar with today’s Old Kings Road.

The modern roadway is

paved, widened and lined with development. In some sections it features sidewalks, bike lanes and multiple travel lanes. It crosses modern infrastructure including Interstate 95 and Palm Coast Parkway and serves as a major local transportation corridor.

The original Kings Road was something entirely different.

Constructed by the British during the 1760s and extending southward as East Florida developed, the road connected St. Augustine to New Smyrna and settlements beyond. It followed portions of existing Native American trails, crossed swamps and waterways using bridges and causeways, and became the primary route for commerce, military movement and settlement throughout British East Florida.

Much of the original road has disappeared or been altered over time, but portions remain visible in and around Hewitt’s Sawmill Park, where Zepp says visitors can still walk along the same route traveled by British settlers, soldiers, traders and laborers during the colonial era.

“This is an original stretch of Kings Road,” Zepp said as we followed a narrow trail through the woods.

The route’s significance extended far beyond transportation.

One of the most important industrial sites in colonial East Florida was built directly alongside it.

According to Zepp, builder and contractor John Hewitt established a water-powered sawmill at the site in 1770 to supply lumber to St. Augustine and British interests throughout the region.

“This is pre-American Revolution,” Zepp said. “This is our revolutionary site here.”

At the time, Florida remained loyal to Britain while revolution was unfolding in the American colonies to the north.

The operation supplied lumber harvested from the surrounding forests, including live oak, pine, cedar and cypress. Live oak was particularly valuable because of its strength and natural curvature, making it highly desirable for shipbuilding.

“The British loved live oak,” Zepp said. “It creates a perfect bowsprit for ships.”

Historians believe lumber produced at the site helped support construction projects in St. Augustine during a period of rapid growth. Following the American Revolution, thousands of Loyalists

fled south to British Florida, creating a housing shortage and increasing demand for building materials.

“Everybody thinks of history around here as St. Augustine,” Zepp said. “But we’re 23 miles south and we’re supplying the lumber to build what you see up there.”

Today, little remains of the mill itself.

White markers outline the approximate footprint of the structure, which Zepp said measured roughly 53 feet long, 32 feet wide and 26 feet tall.

Much of what historians know about the site today stems from archaeological work conducted by William M. Jones in 1977. Zepp said Jones identified the remains of the colonial-era sawmill and recovered numerous artifacts from the property, helping establish its significance as one of Flagler County’s most important historic sites.

Yet evidence of the sophisticated engineering that powered the operation remains visible throughout the property.

Unlike traditional northern sawmills that relied on falling water, Hewitt’s mill used an undershot wheel powered by a complex hydraulic system. Workers constructed canals, ditches, dams and reservoirs that controlled water flow through the site.

Standing near the remnants of a colonial-era dam, Zepp pointed to the surrounding landscape.

“This was all man-made,” he said. “This was all built up by slaves basically with wheelbarrows and bags of dirt.”

Researchers believe the sawmill complex included far more than the mill itself. Historical evidence suggests there were likely slave quarters, a caretaker’s residence, a blacksmith shop, kitchen facilities and possibly a cooperage where barrels were produced.

Scattered pieces of coquina stone can still be found throughout portions of the site.

The area also contains what may be one of Florida’s earliest railroad beds.

Zepp pointed to a raised corridor crossing the property that historians believe may date back to the sawmill’s operation.

“If we’re correct, it makes it the oldest railroad bed in the state of Florida,” he said.

The route was later reused in the late 1800s when the East Florida Land and Produce Company built railroad infra-

7,000 years ago

The history preserved at Hewitt’s Sawmill stretches far beyond the colonial period.

Long before the arrival of Europeans, Native Americans lived throughout what is now Flagler County.

“This is our oldest documented site in the county,” Zepp said.

Among the discoveries highlighting that history is a spear point found in the St. Johns Park-Hall Creek area that has been dated to approximately 7,000 years ago.

The artifact was later turned over to the Flagler County Historical Society.

The surrounding landscape would have provided ideal conditions for Native American communities, with access to freshwater creeks, wetlands, fish, game and transportation routes.

structure through the area to move agricultural products.

The region’s strategic importance continued long after the British period ended.

When Britain ceded Florida back to Spain in 1783 following the American Revolution, British settlers were given a choice: remain and swear loyalty to Spain or leave. Hewitt chose to leave.

The site later became entangled in a series of conflicts that shaped Florida’s early history.

During the Patriot War of 1812, Georgia militia forces invaded Spanish Florida in an unsuccessful attempt to seize the territory. According to local accounts, portions of the sawmill complex were damaged during those attacks.

The Second Seminole War also left its mark on the corridor.

Fort Fulton, a military outpost active between 1838 and 1840, stood nearby.

“Osceola would have came up through here before he got captured up at Fort Peyton,” Zepp said.

Archaeologists and historians have recovered railroad spikes and musket balls that may be connected to the Seminole Wars, Civil War-era activity or other chapters of the region’s history.

The Civil War brought additional activity to the

where his 1977 investigations helped identify and document the remains of the colonial-era lumber operation along the original Kings Road corridor. Photo courtesy of the Flagler County Historical Society

corridor as Florida supplied cattle to the Confederacy and military forces moved through portions of East Florida.

Walking through the property today, traces of those centuries remain hidden beneath the forest floor.

At the same time, reminders of modern Palm Coast are never far away.

Subdivisions border portions of the site. Development has altered parts of the historic landscape. Recent storms have brought down trees and damaged trails.

Zepp and a small group of volunteers work to maintain the property and educate the public about its significance.

For him, the challenge is ensuring that future generations understand the importance of a place that helped shape the region long before Palm Coast existed.

“We’re walking on a couple of centuries of history,” Zepp said. “And nobody knows it sits back here.”

As Palm Coast continues to grow, Hewitt’s Sawmill Park offers a rare opportunity to step back in time.

A short walk off the modern roadway reveals the original Kings Road — a place where Native Americans hunted and fished thousands of years ago, where British engineers built Florida’s first major transportation corridor, where enslaved laborers powered an industrial operation that supplied colonial St. Augustine, and where generations of Floridians left their mark on the landscape.

“This is history we’re trying to save for future generations,” Zepp said. “It’s important for people to learn, and it’s just constantly under threat from development right now.”

Proposed Seminole Woods development could add homes, grocery store

The 119-acre proposal could bring up to 502 homes, a grocery store — and 4,800 daily vehicle trips.

RICH CARROLL

MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER

A proposed 119-acre mixeduse development along Seminole Woods Boulevard moved forward June 15 after the Flagler County Commission considered a large-scale future land use amendment that would allow a combination of residential, commercial and assisted living uses on property surrounded by existing neighborhoods. The commission voted 4-1 to advance the project, with Andy Dance voting no.

The request, submitted by MPC Lots LLC, seeks to amend the property’s future land use designation from Agricultural and Timberlands and Commercial Low Intensity to Mixed Use High Intensity. The site is located west of Seminole Woods Boulevard, approximately one mile from U.S. 1, and is bordered by

Grand Landings, Cascades and a School Board-owned parcel reserved for a future school.

County planners told commissioners the amendment includes a parcel-specific limiting policy that would cap residential density at an average of seven units per acre, matching the density allowed under the county’s Mixed Use Low Intensity category. The higher-intensity designation was requested primarily because the developer wants the ability to include a shopping center and grocery store. During her presentation, Principal Planner Simone Kenney said county staff analyzed the proposal using the maximum development potential allowed under the requested land use designation. Under that worstcase scenario, the amendment would generate a net increase of approximately 1,153 residents, 4,800 daily vehicle trips, 420,000 gallons of potable water demand, 370,000 gallons of wastewater demand and nearly 18,000 pounds of solid waste. The project would also increase demand for parks and recreation facilities and generate an estimated 100 additional

public school students.

Kenney said the project could ultimately include up to 502 residential units and approximately 829,000 square feet of commercial development. However, the companion rezoning application includes restrictions reducing the commercial floor area ratio, resulting in approximately 414,000 square feet of commercial development while preserving plans for a grocery store and neighborhood shopping center. The project would also be required to maintain at least 25% open space, or roughly 30 acres.

The Planning and Development Board unanimously recommended approval of the amendment in February after requesting additional input from the City of Palm Coast.

LONG-RANGE PLANNING

Representing the applicant, attorney Michael Chiumento argued the proposal reflects a vision that has existed since Palm Coast’s original planning documents were created more than 50 years ago.

Chiumento presented historical planning maps dating back to the ITT era.

“This has been the plan

for over 50 years to provide this type of development in the area,” Chiumento told commissioners, “so that the neighbors and the people in that part of the community don’t have to travel as far to get their day-to-day needs.”

He said the project has been substantially revised over the past year in response to comments from county staff, Palm Coast officials and residents.

Among the changes, the applicant reduced the project’s commercial intensity, added larger landscape buffers, lowered maximum building heights, restricted certain commercial uses and committed to keeping stormwater on-site through a curb-and-gutter drainage system. Chiumento said the development would include single-family homes, townhomes, multifamily housing, an assisted living facility and neighborhood-serving commercial uses.

The developer also pointed to a utility capacity letter from Palm Coast indicating water and sewer service is available and noted that any future development would still be required to meet concurrency requirements before

construction could occur.

RESIDENTS’ CONCERNS

Several residents from nearby communities urged commissioners to reject the proposal or require additional restrictions.

Grand Landings resident James Carlin thanked the applicant for making concessions but requested wider buffers and questioned whether commercial uses selling alcohol should be located next to land reserved for a future school.

Palm Coast City Council candidate Darlene Shelley argued the amendment conflicts with the county’s long-term planning goals and Vision 2050 initiative.

“We are not anti-growth,” Shelley told commissioners. “Flagler County needs responsible development that honors our Vision 2050.”

She contended the proposal would encourage urban sprawl, place additional pressure on infrastructure and erode the area’s rural character.

Other residents questioned the project’s traffic projections and the need for additional commercial development in the area.

Grand Landings resident Robert Meyer said he has not heard demand from residents for another grocery store and challenged portions of the traffic analysis presented by the developer.

Seminole Woods resident Liz Shanahan argued the proposal is inconsistent with the character of the surrounding neighborhood.

“Seminole Woods is over 95% residential,” Shanahan said, adding that large-scale commercial development would be out of place in the area. Another Grand Landings resident, Jim D’Agostino, told commissioners the project would fundamentally alter the character of nearby neighborhoods and urged them to keep development at the intensity currently allowed under existing land-use regulations.

NEXT STEPS The future land use amendment represents the first in a multi-stage process. Commissioners also considered a companion rezoning that establishes specific development standards and limitations for the project.

Archaeologist William M. Jones stands at the Hewitt’s Sawmill site,

Palm Coast City Historian Preston Zepp stands near the site of Hewitt’s Sawmill at Hewitt’s Sawmill Park, where a British-era lumber operation helped supply St. Augustine during the colonial period. Archaeological evidence indicates the mill was built in 1770 along the original Kings Road corridor. Photo by Rich Carroll.

Skate park or more parking spaces?

Palm Coast tables funding decision as officials weigh priorities to spend $1.5 million savings.

RICH CARROLL MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER

Palm Coast officials are considering whether to use approximately $1.5 million in project savings to address parking shortages at the Southern Recreation Center, advance a long-discussed skate park project or pursue a combination of recreational improvements.

The discussion took place during the Palm Coast City Council’s June 16 meeting as members reviewed a proposal to redirect savings generated from the Indian Trail Sports Complex parking expansion project. Staff initially recommended using the funds to construct additional parking at the Southern Recreation Center, which currently lacks enough parking to meet city requirements.

Stormwater and Engineering Director Carl Cote explained that the parking project was intended to address a known issue at the facility.

“With those savings, we’re looking to address a known issue, an existing facility and to meet our initial obligations of that project to provide the required parking,” Cote said.

The proposed work would also include stormwater improvements, sidewalks and related infrastructure.

Mayor Mike Norris, however, suggested the city consider using a portion of the available funding to accelerate construction of a skate park, an amenity identified in both

the city’s Strategic Action Plan and Parks Master Plan.

“What I was thinking was why don’t we add an additional amenity out there at the Southern Recreation Center,” Norris said. “It’s also in the parks master plan — a skate park. We can get a nice skate park put in out there for under a million dollars, and it’s diversifying the amenities to other residents within the city.”

The suggestion sparked a broader discussion about recreational priorities and how impact fee dollars should be spent.

“We did propose basketball courts and a skate park to [Florida Power and Light], and they shot us down. They said not allowed,” Cote said. As the discussion continued, Norris questioned whether a skate park should be located at the Southern Recreation Center at all.

“If we did something with a skate park, I’d rather have it in the center of the city. Geographic center of the city,” Norris said.

Councilman Ty Miller responded: “I support trying to get the skate park done sooner rather than later,” Miller said. “It’s just, as mentioned right now, it’s like year 13 of the parks master plan or something — way off, right? — not budgeted. So that means shifting it forward and shifting something else back, in order to accommodate that.”

The conversation later turned to the financial performance of the Southern Recreation Center.

Norris asked Parks and Recreation Director James Hirst whether the facility was currently operating in the black and whether parking shortages were the primary reason it was falling short of full cost recovery.

“Parking can definitely help,” Hirst said. “We are limited with space out there. So, more parking, more members, more programs, more events, those can definitely help us get close.”

When Norris pressed further, Hirst acknowledged other factors contribute to the facility’s financial performance but maintained parking remains a significant issue.

Hirst estimated that the facility currently operates at 65% to 70% cost recovery.

The exchange highlighted one of the central questions facing council members: whether the available funding should be used to solve an existing operational challenge at the Southern Recreation Center or invested in a new recreational amenity.

Staff explained that the parking expansion was already included in the city’s fiveyear Capital Improvement Program and was originally expected to be funded later with Community Redevelopment Agency dollars. The savings from the Indian Trail Sports Complex project created an opportunity to move the work forward sooner.

Vice Mayor Theresa Pontieri ultimately proposed tabling the resolution so staff could return with a more comprehensive analysis.

The motion passed unanimously.

Staff will return at a future workshop with potential skate park locations, parking expansion options for the Southern Recreation Center, safety improvements at the Indian Trail Sports Complex and a detailed breakdown of available funding sources before council determines how the savings will ultimately be spent.

How big will the data center be?

City says the approved facility, by DC Blox, is substantially smaller than data centers discussed nationally.

CITY OF PALM COAST

The City of Palm Coast is providing clarification regarding the DC Blox cable landing station currently under construction in Town Center following public statements made during a June 19 radio interview that inaccurately described the size and scope of the approved project.

During the interview, a representative of DC Blox stated that the Palm Coast facility would consist of two buildings totaling approximately 100,000 square feet. That description does not reflect the project that has been reviewed and approved by the City of Palm Coast.

The project currently approved and permitted by the city consists of: „ One building „ 33,760 square feet

NEWS BRIEFS

Palm Coast Parkway resurfacing begins June 28

The City of Palm Coast will begin the Palm Coast Parkway Resurfacing Project on the evening of Sunday, June 28. This project will include the complete milling and resurfacing of Palm Coast Parkway from US-1 to Hammock Beach

„ Building permit issued April 8, 2026

„ Construction currently underway

The approved plans on file with the city do not include a second building. Should DC Blox wish to construct additional buildings on the site in the future, those proposals would require separate review and approval through the city’s development review process. Any future expansion would be evaluated based on the regulations in place at the time of application and would be subject to all applicable public review requirements.

Palm Coast’s development review process establishes different levels of review based on project size. Projects under 40,000 square feet may be reviewed administratively if they meet all applicable code requirements. Projects between 40,000 and 99,999 square feet require review by the Planning Land Development and Regulation Board. Projects of 100,000 square feet or greater require review by both the PLDRB and the Palm Coast City Council.

Bridge, as well as the extension of two turn lanes, which will be located at the intersections of Pine Lakes Parkway and Bridgehaven Drive. The work on this project will closely mirror that of the Whiteview Parkway and Belle Terre Parkway traffic improvement projects that are currently underway and are slated to be completed in August 2026 and February 2027 respectively. However, work on the Palm Coast Parkway project will be completed during overnight hours from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. Motorists can expect nightly lane closures

Because the DC Blox project approved by the city is 33,760 square feet, it qualified for administrative review under the City’s Land Development Code.

Additionally, the Palm Coast City Council is currently advancing amendments to the Land Development Code that would establish additional requirements for future data center proposals. Under the proposed amendments, data centers would require a Special Exception approved by a supermajority vote of the City Council following a public hearing process. The city recognizes that residents have raised questions about the project and has worked to provide accurate information regarding the approved facility.

City officials have consistently communicated that the approved project is not a hyperscale data center and that the approved building is substantially smaller than the large-scale facilities often discussed in national conversations about data center development.

for the duration of the project.

“We’re looking forward to completing this project and restoring one of our city’s major thoroughfares and adding turn lanes to enhance traffic flow,” project manager Tyler Gibson said. “Fortunately, since the project is not located in a residential area, we will be able to complete the work during overnight hours for the benefit of daytime traffic flow while work is underway.” This project is slated to be completed in December 2026. Send news tips to Rich Carroll at rich@observerlocalnews.com.

How did sex offenders end up — here?

Cody’s Corner owner said sex offenders were found camping behind his store in western Flagler County.

RICH CARROLL

MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER

The owner of a western Flagler County convenience store says he is still searching for answers after discovering registered sex offenders had been using his business address while camping in the woods behind his property.

Edward Corcoran, owner of Cody’s Corner on State Road 11, said he first became aware of the situation in late May when one of the individuals allegedly showed store employees paperwork indicating he was required to remain at the location.

The discovery ultimately led to an investigation by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, which confirmed that three registered sex offenders had been camping in a wooded area behind the store, and using the property’s address without Corcoran’s permission.

According to a statement provided by the Sheriff’s Office, the individuals were issued trespass warnings, removed from the property and relocated to another location approved by their probation officers.

Corcoran said the explanation leaves a number of unanswered questions.

“They were staying here without permission,” he said. “Nobody ever verified that it was OK for them to stay here.”

According to Corcoran, probation officers had allegedly met with some of the offenders on the property

during the months they were staying there.

“They can’t say they didn’t know they were here because their probation officers are coming out here and meeting them on property out in the woods,” he said.

Corcoran also claimed several of the offenders were wearing GPS ankle monitors and were assigned to remain at the location.

“When he went out into the road, his ankle monitor rang,” Corcoran said.

The Sheriff’s Office statement did not address those allegations.

“Obtaining a property owner’s permission to stay at an address ... is the responsibility of the person registering,” FCSO said.

The agency added that offenders on active probation are supervised by the Florida Department of Corrections.

To prevent a recurrence, the Sheriff’s Office said it has permanently flagged the Cody’s Corner address.

“To prevent a recurrence, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office has flagged the address at Cody’s Corner so it cannot be used as a registered address again,” the statement said.

The agency also said deputies will periodically check the area to ensure no one returns to camp behind the store.

Corcoran disputes the notion that proper verification occurred.

He said mail addressed to some of the offenders had been arriving at the business for months and claimed he had no knowledge that registered sex offenders were living on the property.

“We didn’t know they were sex offenders or anything like that,” Corcoran said. “We thought they were just hanging out here.”

Corcoran said the situation

came to light after one individual showed store employees paperwork indicating he was assigned to the location.

“The next morning, the sheriff’s department ... flew a drone over the property and got them off this property and the neighboring property,” Corcoran said.

While Corcoran praised responding deputies for addressing the issue once it was discovered, he remains frustrated by what he views as a breakdown in oversight.

“My parking lot is a school bus stop,” Corcoran said. “It’s the absolute worst place to send sexual offenders because you’ve got kids going right by you on four-wheelers all day.”

Corcoran said he was also concerned after learning the property had been listed as a sex offender residence in public databases.

“The hardest part of this whole thing was getting my name off the FDLE website,” he said.

He worries the designation may have damaged the business’s reputation among customers and families who regularly stop at the store.

“I wonder how many more of these little campsites are set up throughout the county that nobody knows about,” Corcoran said. “You can’t tell me I was the only one.”

As of this week, Corcoran said he has been told the individuals are no longer living on the property.

“To the best of my knowledge, that’s correct,” he said.

The Palm Coast Observer has reached out to the Florida Department of Corrections for comment regarding address approval procedures for offenders under active supervision and whether any review of the Cody’s Corner situation has been conducted.

‘30

is the new 35’: a slower Ormond

JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR

When it comes to Ormond Beach’s downtown district, “30 is the new 35.”

Ormond MainStreet recently launched a year-long community awareness campaign to bring attention to the reduced speed limit on Granada Boulevard between U.S. 1 and A1A.

As part of the traffic calming roadwork completed by the Florida Department of Transportation last year, the speed limit in this 1.5-mile section of Granada was reduced from 35 mph to 30 mph.

The speed limit reduction is an opportunity to show the community and its visitors that the downtown is more of a destination, rather than a pass-through, said Georgia McCurdy, board member and chair of the Ormond MainStreet design committee.

“You’re seeing things happening,” she said. “You’re seeing pedestrians. You’re seeing parked cars. You’re seeing beautiful buildings with greenery around them, and you know that there’s something going on there. It’s a slow-down moment.”

When the MainStreet Board realized many didn’t know the speed limit had changed with the FDOT project, McCurdy said they felt it was time to help educate.

Beginning June 15, Ormond MainStreet’s campaign banners, posters and window decals were displayed in local businesses. The date also marked the launch of the nonprofit’s social media messaging. The kick-off will last two weeks, and the campaign will return quarterly for the year.

McCurdy said that the education campaign was met with “resounding enthusiasm and a lot of gratitude” from the local business community. Ormond MainStreet quickly ran out of materials to distribute.

The campaign circles back to the revitalization of the downtown, much of which has been completed by Bill Jones, said Becky Parker, executive director of Ormond MainStreet. Jones has redeveloped several buildings in the district.

“The exquisite and charming renovations are part of what makes Ormond Beach so special, and when drivers move at a calmer pace, they get to appreciate them in a more meaningful way,” she said.

In a letter to business partners in the downtown, Ormond MainStreet wrote that “the change is about more than traffic speed.”

“It represents an opportunity for a true cultural shift in our town, as Historic Ormond Beach evolves into a safer, more walkable, and more welcoming place,” the letter states.

Reduced vehicle speeds improve pedestrian safety, lower traffic noise and create a “more pleasant atmosphere for shopping and dining,” the letter continued.

McCurdy agrees.

“Slowing down the traffic has so many multiple benefits, and from a business standpoint, when the traffic slows down, people notice storefronts more,” McCurdy said. “They notice businesses more. We believe it’ll increase foot traffic to those businesses. People feel safer parking their cars, getting out, crossing on these new crosswalks.” According to research from the Federal Highway Administration, driving 30 mph instead of 35 mph on a 1.5-mile corridor adds 26 seconds to a trip. In case of a pedestrian crash, fatality is also reduced; the FHWA states pedestrian survivability improves by 40% with every 10 mph reduction.

The “30 is the new 35” initiative is being conducted in partnership with the City of Ormond Beach, with the support of the Police Department. The campaign would not be possible without McCurdy, Parker said.

“She’s the type of person that is action-oriented,” Parker said. “... She really came to us with a solution and really made it happen.”

Megan Bagwell, MD OB/GYN Daytona Beach

Tonusri Nag, DO Interventional Cardiology DeLand

Beibei Oelrich, MD Urology New Smyrna Beach

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

Justin Wage, MD Radiation Oncology Palm Coast

The campaign will return once every quarter over the next year. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

District to hire certified teachers for VPK

Ultimately, Flagler Schools would like to have a certified teacher in all VPK classrooms.

BRENT WORONOFF

EDITOR

ASSOCIATE

With the expansion and focus on its voluntary prekindergarten program, Flagler Schools wants to put certified teachers in the VPK classrooms. It plans to begin that initiative in the upcoming school year by placing two VPK teachers in each of its three Title I elementary schools — Bunnell, Rymfire and Wadsworth.

Currently, facilitators who have certifications in child development, are teaching the VPK classes. Usually, there are two facilitators per classroom, Dr. Angela O’Brien, the district’s assistant superintendent, said. The VPK classrooms are capped at 20 students and the ratio that the district uses is one facilitator per 11 students, she said.

Superintendent LaShakia Moore said ultimately they would like to have one certified teacher and one facilitator in each VPK class. For now, Flagler Schools will be using federal Title I funds to pay for the initial six teachers.

The School Board unanimously approved the phasing in of the certified teachers at its board meeting on June 23.

The district has been focusing on early learning and kindergarten readiness. In a February board workshop presentation, district staff reported that kindergarten readiness had dropped to 37%.

The Flagler County Education Foundation is organizing two “Launch to Learning” events to provide VPK options and registration assistance for parents. The sessions will be July 11 at the Carver Center and July 18 at Hidden Trails Community Center, both at 10 a.m. to noon.

“As we grow, maybe not every class will have a certified teacher,” Moore said. “But through attrition and through the review of data, that’s what we will use to determine where they are.

“It’s our desire to have a certified teacher in all of the classes, and we will continue to work with the board in order to identify ways that we can make that happen.”

The certified teachers would fall under a different bargaining unit than the facilitators, Moore and O’Brien said. While the facilitators are under the support bargaining unit, the certified teachers will be under the instructional bargaining unit.

“The certified VPK position, I think, will make a huge difference with our young learners,” board member Lauren Ramirez said.

Fitz board to contribute to new director’s salary

The Flagler Auditorium Governing Board will pay $30,000 toward the director’s salary and benefits.

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The Flagler County School Board approved a memorandum of understanding with the Flagler Auditorium Governing Board, accepting the governing board’s proposal to contribute $30,000 toward the new auditorium director’s salary and benefits.

The MOU is for the upcoming school year and will automatically renew for the fol-

NEWS BRIEFS

Ruddy votes no on UNF agreement

Flagler School Board member Janie Ruddy voted against an agreement with the University of North Florida to provide the district with student teacher interns because UNF had removed a protected class from the nondiscrimination provision in the agreement.

The board approved the agreement in April but had to vote again on June 23 after UNF removed “sexual orientation” from the nondiscrimination clause.

Ruddy said her vote “is no reflection on my opinion or interest to continue to work with this organization, but really, it’s about making sure

lowing three years.

The current auditorium director, Amelia Fulmer, is retiring on July 31. The school district plans to recommend her replacement for board approval next month, Superintendent LaShakia Moore said.

The auditorium director is a Flagler Schools position, but it entails directing student arts education as well as overseeing the procurement of professional shows at the auditorium, which was rebranded as the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center three years ago.

The starting salary for the director position’s salary lane is $79,267, but the district will be choosing an experienced candidate from among more

that I am in alignment with my own morals and values.”

The board approved the agreement 3-1. It was one of three affiliation agreements with universities that the board approved at the meeting.

Flagler Schools honors Volunteers of the Year Elliott and Blair

Flagler Schools presented awards to 2025-26 Volunteers of the Year Kevin Blair and Nicole Elliott at the June 23 board meeting. Blair and Elliott both volunteer at Belle Terre Elementary School.

“We are proud to announce both of them as Florida DOE Outstanding School Volunteers,” BTES Assistant Principal Tim Ruddy announced. Blair was unable to attend the meeting because he was on a fishing trip, Ruddy said.

than 50 applicants from all over the country, Moore said. The salary increases by steps based on years of experience in positions with similar qualifications.

Moore said the Governing Board made the offer with the realization that public school budgets have been shrinking and help is needed to ensure a qualified candidate is hired to take on the position’s dual roles.

“Prior to this, the School Board has covered the entire cost of that salary and benefits,” Moore said. “When you look at everything that’s happening with budgets, this really is [the Governing Board’s] partnership with this board to ensure that we can move forward and have a

competitive wage. This position will support our schools as well as support the community, so it’s not just about the professional shows, it’s also about the K-12 arts experience that our students are going to have.”

Jeff Reaves, Flagler Schools’ director of Teaching and Learning, presented the MOU to the School Board at its afternoon workshop on Tuesday, June 23. The board approved the agreement that evening at its monthly business meeting as part of the consent agenda.

“This is a gift, at the end of the day, to make sure we keep this position in place,” School Board member Will Furry said.

But on school days, he can always be found at BTES.

“If you’ve been to Belle Terre, you know Kevin,” Ruddy said. “He spends every day, all day at Belle Terre.” Elliott has volunteered at

BTES for nine years, Ruddy said.

“She started with her students when they were there,” Ruddy said. “They aren’t there anymore, but she keeps coming and volunteering for us.”

Nicole Elliott (front row, left) was honored by the Flagler County School Board along with Kevin Blair, who couldn’t attend the meeting, as Flagler Schools’ Volunteers of the Year. Front row, right: Belle Terre Elementary School Assistant Principal Tim Ruddy. Back row: Superintendent LaShakia Moore and School Board members Christy Chong, Will Furry, Janie Ruddy and Lauren Ramirez. Courtesy photo.

Flagler Schools Superintendent LaShakia Moore. File photo

BUSINESS

Ormond’s historic Hillside Cemetery adds new columbarium

Hillside Cemetery, a historic nonprofit cemetery in Ormond Beach, has added a new columbarium structure. According to a press release, the cemetery at 143 Seton Trail identified the need to expand due to the growing preference for cremation services. The new columbarium provides a permanent space for the placement of cremated remains in secure memorial niches.

“This addition allows us to better meet the needs of today’s families while continuing our mission of honoring life and preserving the legacy of those who came before us,” said a

etery in the press release. “We are proud to provide a peaceful place where loved ones can be remembered for generations to come.”

Hillside Cemetery used local companies to help with this addition: Bryson Crane Rental Service, LLC in Daytona Beach, Josh McFarran with McFarran Corporation, and James Young from Young Enterprises. In addition to traditional burial spaces, Hillside Cemetery offers: „ Traditional burials „ Cremation niches within the new columbarium „ Companion placement options for couples and families „ Memorialization opportunities to honor loved ones in a historic setting. Visit hillsidecemetery.co.

“It’s always been an honor to be recognized by this esteemed organization,” she said in the press release. “I am very grateful to be included in such qualified and professional company!”

Kona Construction celebrates ribbon

cutting

in Ormond

Kona Construction Services celebrated a ribbon cutting of its new location of 85 S. Washington St. in Ormond Beach on Thursday, June 18.

The company is owned by Mike Bowen and Rick Burt.

Prior to moving into their new location three months ago, the company was located at 100 E. Granada Blvd. for six years.

Kona’s new location is now equipped with an office, a warehouse and a design center, the latter two of which are new additions to the company.

Ormond-by-the-Sea.

Salt Sculpt Fitness Studio will be located at the Ormond Beach Mall at 1270 Ocean Shore Blvd., next to Publix.

The studio will offer instructorled classes in Pilates, yoga, strength training, sculpt, stretching and recovery-focused sessions, according to a press release. Each class will be structured around 16 training stations.

The studio is founded by Israelle Schindler.

Erum Kistemaker selected to Florida Super Lawyers for 11th consecutive year

Erum Kistemaker, managing attorney and shareholder of Ormond Beach’s Kistemaker Business Law Group, has been selected to Florida Super Lawyers for the 11th consecutive year.

According to a press release, the top 5% of the lawyers in Florida are selected by Super Lawyers. Kistemaker, a condo/ HOA, construction, real estate/ landlord and business Law attorney has had a vital and active role in Florida’s new and changing legislation regarding community association regulations. Kistemaker was also selected to the Gator100.

This is the 13th consecutive year Kistemaker has been recognized by Super Lawyers; she was voted a Rising Star for her first two years.

“We moved in here not knowing we were going to set up a design center, but we had all this space, and we said, ‘Well, let’s do this,’ and then we ended up putting it all together and one thing led to another,” Bowen said.

Bowen is most looking forward to the influx of clientele that his new location is bringing. Since being in their new building, Bowen said numerous subcontractors and painters drop by the business in hopes to work with them.

“We’re doing a lot of remodeling, interior, residential remodeling, like kitchens, bathrooms, full interiors of the house and assisting those who need structural walls removed,” said Bowen, who has lived in Volusia County since 1974.

Visit konaconstructionservices.com.

Salt Sculpt Fitness Studio comes to Ormond

A new boutique fitness studio will be opening this fall in

“I didn’t set out to open a fitness studio,” she said in the press release. “I was actually searching for one. I wanted a place that offered strength training, Pilates, yoga, and recovery-focused movement in a welcoming environment where women could feel comfortable, challenged, and supported. When I couldn’t find exactly what I was looking for in the Ormond Beach area, I realized there were probably many other women searching for the same thing.” Schindler said her goal to create a space where people can build “strength, improve their health, and feel empowered in their bodies for years to come.”

Salt Sculpt is seeking instructors to join its founding team. Those interested are encouraged to email their resume and credentials to info@saltsculptfs.com.

Visit www.saltsculptfs.com.

Weichert, Realtors Hallmark Properties adds Kim Manford Weichert, Realtors Hallmark

James Young, Josh McFarran, and Nina Guiglotto. Courtesy photo

Before we vote on property tax cut, we deserve answers

Over the past several weeks, I have followed the discussion surrounding the proposed property tax cuts in Florida. Like many Floridians, I understand the frustration of rising costs and increasing tax bills. I am a homeowner. I understand the appeal of tax relief. But before voters are asked to make a decision that could fundamentally change how local governments fund essential services, we deserve honest answers about the consequences. Much of the conversation has focused on what homeowners could save. Far less attention has been given to

LETTER

To retain students, invest in teachers

Dear Editor:

I attended the Bryon Donalds forum at the VFW. I appreciated his vision for Florida’s future, especially his focus on education. During the question portion, School Board candidate Ron Long asked how local counties can compete with the mass exit of students and the loss of funding. He pointed out that parents’ main concerns are bullying and safety — both very real issues. Donalds suggested voting in School Board members who truly represent our voices and who are willing to hold the superintendent and district accountable. But there is a critical piece Florida is still failing to address: teacher pay and support. Florida ranks 50th in the nation for average teacher pay [according to the National Education Association]. Teachers are leaving because they cannot afford to stay, do not feel supported and are expected to manage increasingly out-of-control classrooms. If we do not invest in the quality of our teachers, our schools will never improve.

In recent years, the quality of education has plummeted. Districts are placing “bodies” in classrooms, and sometimes there is no certified teacher available for core subjects. Is that acceptable? My child had no consistent teacher for the majority of his freshman year, yet he was still held accountable for maintaining his GPA and required to take state testing. Why is the district not held to the same level of accountability as our students?

I pleaded with the district to think outside the box to support students, even suggesting that district employees spend a few hours at our local high schools to help. Their solution? Place a coach in the classroom and have students follow an online curriculum. And we wonder why parents are pulling their children out of public schools. We have three open School Board seats on the ballot in August. I urge every parent and community member to take the time to learn about each candidate. Your child deserves better, and meaningful change has to start with you — in the voting booth.

KATHY BARNETT

what communities could lose.

Property taxes fund many of the services we rely on every day. They help pay for fire protection, law enforcement, emergency services, road maintenance, parks, libraries, stormwater systems, mosquito control and numerous special districts that protect public health and safety.

One service that is often overlooked is mosquito control. In Florida, mosquito control is far more than spraying for nuisance mosquitoes. It includes surveillance programs, disease monitoring, larval control, storm response, environmental management and public health protection. These programs operate year-round to prevent problems before they become outbreaks. Most residents never see that work because prevention is the goal. However, reduced funding could mean an increased risk of mosquito-borne illnesses affecting our communities.

Supporters of the proposal often point out that schools, fire services and law enforcement would be protected. While those services are

undoubtedly essential, simply identifying them as priorities does not automatically provide funding.

Fire departments still need firefighters, equipment, fuel, stations and training. Law enforcement agencies still need deputies, patrol vehicles, technology, and school resource deputies. Roads still need maintenance. Stormwater systems still require upkeep. Public health programs still require staffing and resources.

The question is simple: If property taxes are significantly reduced, where will the replacement revenue come from?

Will the state provide billions of dollars to local governments each year? If so, where will those funds originate? Will sales taxes increase? Will fees and special assessments rise? Will local governments be forced to reduce services?

These are not political questions. They are practical questions.

In Flagler County, public safety represents a significant portion of local government spending. If local governments lose a substan-

tial share of their revenue, difficult decisions will inevitably follow. The math does not disappear simply because a funding source changes.

As the wife of an East Flagler Mosquito Control employee, I have seen firsthand the dedication of the men and women who work behind the scenes to protect public health. They are often out before sunrise, after storms, and in challenging conditions performing work that most residents never see. This issue is personal for my family, but it is bigger than any one job or agency. It is about ensuring that essential services remain available for future generations. I also believe it is important to acknowledge that many people advocating for property tax reform have legitimate concerns. Seniors on fixed incomes, young families struggling to purchase homes and working residents facing rising insurance and living costs deserve relief. That conversation is worth having. But there is a significant difference between targeted

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ORMOND STATION COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT

Pursuant to Section 190.005(1)(c) and Section 190.046(1)(b), Florida Statutes, the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners hereby provide notice of consideration of a petition submitted by Jere Earlywine Esq seeking the amendment of the Ormond Station Community Development District and possible adoption of the following Ordinance titled similar to: AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA , AMENDING ORDINANCE NO 202308; AS AMENDED BY ORDINANCE NO 2024-01; AMENDING THE ORMOND CROSSING COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 190 FLORIDA STATUTES; AMENDING AND EXPANDING THE BOUNDARIES OF THE DISTRICT TO INCLUDE A 21.24 ACRE PARCEL AND A 14.39 ACRE PARCEL; PROVIDING FOR FINDINGS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE

tax relief and broad property tax cuts that could dramatically reduce funding for essential services.

A proposal of this magnitude should not be driven by slogans or assumptions.

The question is not whether tax relief is needed. The question is how we provide that relief without compromising the services our communities depend on every day.

The future of our communities depends on more than what we save on a tax bill. It depends on maintaining the services that keep our neighborhoods safe, healthy and functioning.

Before moving forward with any significant property tax reduction, Floridians deserve a clear understanding of what services may be affected and how those funding gaps will be filled.

Lacy Martin is a Palm Coast resident, homeowner, wife and mother of two.

rst reading at 6 pm at the same location Ordinance 2026-02 proposes to change the designated parcels on the town s future land-use map from General Commercial (GC) to High-density Residential (HDR). Ordinance 2026-03 proposes to rezone the parcels from General Commercial (GC) to Planned Unit Development (PUD).

Ordinance 2026-02 (Future Land-use) AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN COMMISSION OF THE TOWN OF BEVERLY BEACH FLORIDA AMENDING THE BEVERLY BEACH 2035 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN INITIALLY ADOPTED PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF SECTION 163.3184, FLORIDA STATUES INITIALLY ADOPTED JUNE 1990, AS

SUBSEQUENTLY AMENDED, IN ORDER TO CHANGE THE FUTURE LAND USE MAP TO CHANGE THE FUTURE LAND USE DESIGNATION OF THREE PARCELS OF LAND (TAX PARCELS IDENTIFICATION# 26-11-31-0000-011200000, 26-11-31- 0000-01160-0000, 26-11-31-0000- 01130-0000), TOTALING

APPROXIMATELY 3.95 ACRES, FROM GENERAL COMMERCIAL (COM) TO HIGH-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (HDR) PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE

Ordinance 2026-03 (Rezoning) AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN COMMISSION OF THE TOWN OF BEVERLY BEACH FLORIDA PURSUANT WITH CHAPTER 26, LAND DEVELOPMENT

CODE ARTICLE TWELVE SECTION 26-783 OF THE BEVERLY BEACH LAND

DEVELOPMENT CODE AS AMENDED PROVIDING FOR THE REZONING OF THREE PARCELS OF LAND (TAX PARCEL IDENTIFICATION# 26-11-31-000001120-0000, 26-11-31-0000- 01160-0000, 26-11-31-0000-01130-0000) TOTALING

APPROXIMATELY 3.95 ACRES, FROM ITS PRESENT ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF GENERAL COMMERCIAL (GC) TO PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (PUD) CONSISTENT WITH DIVISION EIGHT SEC 26- 1082; PROVIDING A DESCRIPTION; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE

Public hearing on the above-captioned matter will be held as follows: BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS - Monday July 13 2026 at 5:30 p m or as soon thereafter as possible in the Flagler County Government Services Building Board Chambers 1769 E Moody Blvd Bunnell, Florida

All affected units of general-purpose local government and the general public shall be given an opportunity to appear at the hearing and present oral or written comments on the petition 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 Copies of the proposal supporting data and analysis, staff reports and other pertinent information are available for review between the hours of 8:00 a m and 4:30 p m Monday through Friday at the Flagler County Planning & Zoning Dept 1769 East Moody Boulevard Building 2, Bunnell Florida 32110.

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

LACY MARTIN GUEST WRITER

Former Flagler County Sheriff James Manfre is a friend I respect. We don’t agree on

this one.

Manfre’s “My View” [June 18] opens by warning that a “potential huge shortfall in tax revenues” from Tallahassee should have us “demand-

ing” consolidation talks now. We shouldn’t be demanding anything before we know whether that shortfall materializes. He states that “property tax revenue may be disastrously reduced by the state” but the state doesn’t get a thin dime of property tax revenue. The Legislature has finished its work and now it is up to the voters.

Building county policy around a hypothetical is how communities back themselves into decisions they can’t undo. The current ballot amendment, while the largest tax cut in Florida history, is nowhere near the original proposal that I have previously written about. It is also nowhere near guaranteed.

He’s right that some consolidation already happened here, and that he’s the one who built it. If I may say so, Manfre did it right. In 2001, Manfre and Palm Coast City Manager Dick Kelton struck the agreement where FCSO provides municipal level law enforcement to Palm Coast rather than the city standing up its own police department. That has held solid for 25 years. It was a smart move. What Manfre doesn’t mention is why that’s worked when so many similar arrangements are now failing: Palm Coast kept its own fire department. It never surrendered every public-safety function to the county by keeping one essential service under direct municipal control as a check, and a point of comparison.

That distinction matters because Manfre’s example of Broward’s countywide sheriff’s model isn’t the success story he presents. Neither is the Duval/Jacksonville metro

ideal.

In January 2026, Deerfield Beach voted to leave Broward SO’s contracted policing and fire service entirely, after a consultant’s report projected roughly half a billion dollars in savings over 20 years from going its own way.

Pembroke Park left in 2022 and stood up its own department.

Pompano Beach, Broward’s second-largest contract city, is now running its own feasibility study on doing the same.

If Broward is the proof of concept for combining police, fire, and emergency management under one sheriff, the cities inside that experiment are voting with their feet to get out.

Palm Beach County, not mentioned by Manfre, tells the same story on firerescue. I wouldn’t have even known this but a friend of mine is a Jupiter deputy chief. Jupiter spent two years leaving Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, and its own department went into service this year, with the Town Council projecting $50 million to $70 million in savings over the 10-year term of the prior county agreement. Jupiter didn’t consolidate into the county system. It de-consolidated out of it, because the numbers favored local control.

Former Sheriff Manfre raises vehicle maintenance merger and Flagler’s existing trauma, SWAT and HAZMAT agreements with neighboring counties. I believe that interlocal mutual aid for specialized, low-frequency capabilities makes sense, and certainly that we should expand it, including Putnam alongside St. Johns and

Volusia. But there’s a real difference between sharing a SWAT team for major incidents and dissolving a city’s police or fire department into the Sheriff’s Office permanently. The first is what most of Florida has been doing. The second is what Broward’s largest contract cities are actively unwinding. Palm Coast became a city on Dec. 31, 1999, for an incredibly important reason and a purpose: home rule and a promise that incorporation would deliver better service than the county offered even if paid for at a premium. Those who have been here for 30 years will attest that it was not a guaranteed outcome. The Palm Coast Fire Department backs that up with its sharp and clean apparatus (fire trucks) that bear an ISO Class 2 rating, a standard most departments in this state will never reach. Deerfield Beach, Pembroke Park, Pompano Beach and Jupiter didn’t need a hypothetical tax shortfall to make that call. They had years of bills, response times and budget hearings, and they decided the math worked better at the local level. Flagler doesn’t have to guess at this outcome. The lesson of Manfre’s own 2001 agreement isn’t that Flagler should consolidate further. It’s that Flagler County and Palm Coast has already found the balance other counties are now scrambling to attain. Roland Clee writes the American Peace Officer newsletter, speaks at public safety, recruiting and leadership conferences and helps local governments and public safety agencies through his business, CommandStaffConsulting.com

SUPER SOLVERS

Four Flagler County teams and individuals earn awards at the Future Problem Solvers World Finals.

OBSERVER STAFF

Flagler Schools sent 45 students from four schools to the Future Problem Solvers World Finals on June 10-14 at Indiana University in Bloomington.

The Flagler students represented Matanzas and Flagler Palm Coast high schools, Indian Trails Middle School, and Rymfire Elementary School and competed in all five Future Problem Solving components — Global Issues Problem Solving, MultiAffiliate Problem Solving, Community Problem Solving, Creative Writing and Storytelling.

Four Flagler teams and individuals earned medals and trophies:

„ Muhammad Khawaja of FPC placed second collaborating with students from other schools in Multi-Affiliate Global Issues.

„ Mia Puccio of ITMS

vidual in Community Problem Solving.

„ Rymfire Elementary School Community Problem Solving team, The Positivity Patrol, placed fourth. The team included Derrick Hatter, Cole Delacruz, Abdo Aldra, Ethan Verdote, Austin May, Jordyn Maffei, Aspen Lester, Mira Gitto and Cece Dorozsmay.

„ Matanzas High’s Eva Luis placed sixth in Creative Writing. Luis was also Florida’s flag bearer in the opening ceremony. Flagler’s students were among 2,300 World Finals participants from 11 countries, 33 states and 259 schools. The week-long event was packed with competitions, workshops and showcases but also allowed the students from around the world to join together in a memento exchange, variety show and dance.

Amy Kopach, Matanzas’ FPS coach and an FPS Florida Northeast board member, was making her 10th trip accompanying students to the World Finals in her 14 years coaching. She said this was one of the best FPS events she has attended.

“As a group we made memories and all of the students were focused on their competitions,” Kopach said. “I am always impressed by the

“I am always impressed by the level of thinking these students give and all they are accomplishing. Competing against other students around the world is incomparable.”

AMY KOPACH, FPS coach, board member

level of thinking these students give and all they are accomplishing. Competing against other students around the world is incomparable. It is a very busy week, but we made time for some fun. This year we were able to tour the Indiana University basketball and football stadiums. It was amazing to be able to see where athletes train, play, hold press (conferences) and live.”

teammates from other schools in Multi-Affiliate Global Issues.

FLAGLER’S WORLD FINALS PARTICIPANTS

MATANZAS HIGH SCHOOL

Coach Amy Kopach (six participants). Community Problem Solving — The Real You (Wesley Kopach, Willa Ames, Diana Kolodiy, Dempsey Manhart and Mary Grace Seward). Creative Writing — Eva Luis, sixth place.

FLAGLER PALM COAST HIGH SCHOOL

Coach Danielle Moss (seven participants). Global Issues Problem Solving — Abigail Blumengarten, Lillian Ames, Annnabelle Machado and Victoria DaSilva Carvalheira.

Storytelling — Emma Gilbert.

Multi-Affiliate Global Issues — Muhammad Khawaja, sixth place. Sydney Mahon.

INDIAN TRAILS

MIDDLE SCHOOL Coaches Beth Blumengarten Neil Kopach and Hannah Anderson (16 participants). Community Problem Solving — Volunteer Engineers (Baedan Canfield, Kam Weisstein, Analyn Hurley, Dilan Glodav and Jaxon Letterman). Ready, Set, Work (Avery Mahon, Mia Kopcikova, Elevyn Thompson, Illiana Stockman, Pina Gitto and Olivia Willems). Mia Puccio (individual competitor), second place.

Storytelling — Katelyn Castello.

Multi-Affiliate Global Issues — MacKenzie MacDonald, Tamir Robinson, Gabe Colon.

RYMFIRE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Coaches Amber Acosta and Caryn Taylor (16 participants). Community Problem Solving — The Positivity Patrol (Derrick Hatter, Cole Delacruz, Abdo Aldra, Ethan Verdote, Austin May, Jordyn Maffei, Aspen Lester, Mira Gitto and Cece Dorozsmay), fourth place. Reading to Relatives — (Layla Verdote, Connelly Davis, Noelle Castello, Gabriel Shuler, Enzo Gitto, Mariah Mullins and Gabby Manley).

FPC’s Muhammad Khawaja placed second with his

Indian Trails Middle School’s Ready, Set, Work team (Community Problem Solving).

Indian Trails Middle School’s Mia Puccio placed second as an individual competitor in Community Problem Solving.

Rymfire Elementary School’s Positivity Patrol placed fourth in Community Problem Solving. Courtesy photos

Matanzas’ Eva Luis served as Florida’s flag bearer and placed sixth.

My Insurance Covers Hearing Aids… Doesn’t It?

Dr. Indira Alvarez, Au.D., F-AAA

As a Doctor of Audiology, one of the most rewarding parts of my work is watching patients reconnect with their families, conversations, and everyday life through better hearing. But one of the most confusing parts of hearing healthcare — for both patients and providers — is understanding insurance coverage.

Many people are surprised to learn that hearing aids are not simply “devices.” Successful hearing treatment depends on two equally important things: advanced technology and the clinical expertise required to select, program, verify, and fine-tune that technology for each individual patient.

A hearing aid may be small, but today’s devices contain highly sophisticated computer processing. They are designed to analyze sound environments, reduce background noise, enhance speech, manage feedback, connect to phones, and adapt to changing listening situations. Years of research and development go into making that technology work.

However, the technology alone is not what creates success.

The most important factor in a good outcome is the professional care behind it. A Doctor of Audiology evaluates the type and degree of hearing loss, considers medical history and communication needs, recommends appropriate treatment options, programs the devices accurately, verifies the fitting, provides counseling, and continues to make adjustments over time. This is why two people can purchase similar hearing aids and have very different results depending on the quality of care they receive.

That level of care takes time.

A thorough hearing aid fitting is not a quick transaction. It involves testing, education, real-world problem solving, follow-up appointments, ongoing maintenance, and careful adjustments as the patient adapts. High-quality hearing care is a process — not a one-time purchase.

Unfortunately, insurance coverage has not always kept up with the time and expertise required to provide this level of care. Traditional Medicare does not cover hearing aids, and many Medicare supplement plans follow Medicare guidelines. Some private insurance plans offer a hearing aid benefit, but the details vary widely. Some plans provide a set allowance, while others route patients through third-party hearing aid programs that may limit technology choices, reduce covered services, or reimburse clinics at rates that do not support comprehensive care.

This is not unique to audiology. Across healthcare, many physicians and private practices are struggling with

the same issue: insurance reimbursement often does not reflect the time needed to provide thorough, personalized care. As a result, more medical practices are moving toward concierge, membership, direct-care, or enhanced-service models. These models are designed to preserve access to higher-quality, more personalized care by allowing providers to spend appropriate time with each patient.

The same shift is beginning to happen in hearing healthcare.

Many private audiology practices are reconsidering which insurance and third-party plans they can participate with — not because they do not want to help patients, but because they want to continue providing the level of care patients actually need. When reimbursement does not cover the cost of professional time, follow-up care, staff support, verification equipment, and ongoing service, it becomes difficult for a practice to maintain high standards. Patients deserve to understand this distinction. A “hearing aid benefit” may not always mean comprehensive hearing care. Sometimes it means a discount program, a limited list of devices, fewer included services, or more restrictions on where and how care can be provided. The best thing patients can do is become informed consumers. Ask what your insurance actually covers. Ask whether your benefit includes professional services, follow-up care, verification, repairs, cleanings, and long-term support. Most importantly, choose a qualified provider who takes the time to evaluate your needs and guide you through the process.

Better hearing is an investment in your health, relationships, independence, and quality of life. The technology matters — but the expertise, time, and care behind it matter just as much. At Ormond and Palm Coast Hearing Centers, our mission is to provide high-quality, personalized hearing care while helping patients make informed decisions. We believe every patient deserves clear information, expert guidance, and a treatment plan designed around their real-life hearing needs. Want to learn more about hearing health? Visit our website at palmcoasthearingcenter.com and click the “About” button, then “Helpful Articles”. You can also schedule an appointment online. We also have a second location to serve you in Ormond Beach at ormondhearingcenter.com.

LOCAL EVENTS

THURSDAY, JUNE 25

FLAGLER TIGER BAY CLUB

2026 CANDIDATE FORUM

When: 5-8 p.m.

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

Details: Featuring qualified candidates for the Flagler County Commission and Palm Coast City Council. The forum will begin with a meet-andgreet from 5-6 p.m., followed by a moderated Q&A. Free.

MID SUMMER WINE WALK

When: 6-9 p.m.

Where: European Village, 101 Palm Harbor Parkway, Palm Coast

Details: Support Vincent’s Clubhouse by taking part in this wine walk event, featuring wine tastings, vendors and live music. Tickets cost $25. Visit https://www.zeffy. com/en-US/ticketing/midsummer-wine-walk.

FRIDAY, JUNE 26

NEFJA BARBECUE, JAZZ AND BLUES

When: 4-7 p.m.

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

Details: Join the North East Florida Jazz Association for live music and a buffet barbecue dinner. The featured artist is the Amy Hall Quintet. Tickets are $55. Visit nefja.org.

‘FROM SEED TO SOUL’ EXHIBITION OPENING

When: 6-8:30 p.m.

Where: African American Museum and Cultural Center of Florida, 4422 U.S. Highway

1 N., Palm Coast

Details: The African American Cultural Society presents the grand opening of “From Seed to Soul: African, Indigenous and Cultural Foodways of Flagler County,” a Smithsonian Museum on Main Street exhibition in partnership with Florida Humanities. Free and open to the public.

CMTW PRESENTS

‘BETWEEN THE LINES JR.’

When: 7 p.m. Friday, June 26; 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, June 27

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

Details: Children’s Musical

Theatre Workshop will present its 2026 Summer Musical Theatre Camp Show, “Between The Lines, Jr.” This is a new Broadway junior show based on the novel by author Jodi

Picoult and Samantha van

Leer. Tickets cost $15 for ages 4-12; $20 for 13 and up. Children 3 and under are free. Visit https://ormondbeachperformingartscenter.csstix.com.

‘1776’

When: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, June 26, 27 and July 3; 2 p.m. Friday, July 3; and 2 p.m. Sunday, June 28 and July 5

Where: News-Journal Center, 221 N. Beach St., Daytona Beach

Details: Step into the summer of 1776, when a handful of bickering, brilliant, and very human delegates gathered in a Philadelphia chamber to argue, compromise, and ultimately change the world. Winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical, “1776” brings John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and the Continental Congress vividly to life through wit, song and stirring drama. Presented by Halifax Repertory Theatre. Tickets cost $40 for adults; $35 for seniors. Visit https:// www.halifaxrep.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 27

PANCAKES IN PAJAMAS WITH POPS

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

Where: The Casements, 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach

Details: Attend this new father-daugther event at The Casements. Wear your favorite pajamas and enjoy a morning filled with pancakes, sausage and a toppings bar. There will be face painting, a photo booth, crafts, a pajama contest and more. Open to girls 5-12 years old and their fathers/father figure. Costs $5 per person. Space is limited. Purchase tickets in person at The Casements.

VOICES OF MEMORY: BOTH SIDES OF THE BRIDGE

When: 10-11 a.m.

Where: Palm Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE, Palm Coast Details: Attend this free speaker series event hosted by the Palm Coast Historical Society. The featured speaker will be Cynthia Dodziek.

DIDGERIDOO BASICS: A BEGINNER’S SOUND JOURNEY

When: 12-1 p.m.

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

Details: Discover the unique sounds and cultural history of the didgeridoo in this beginner-friendly class. Children under 17 must be

accompanied by an adult. Register at https://www.zeffy. com/en-US/ticketing/didgeridoo-basics-a-beginnerssound-journey.

MONDAY, JUNE 29

OPEN MAHJONG

FUNDRAISER

When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Pine Lakes Golf Club, Pine Lakes Parkway N., Palm Coast

Details: Presented by The Towns Tails, LLC, this is a fundraiser for local animal rescues. Donation of $45 includes lunch, iced tea, door prizes. Call 808-344-9911.

TUESDAY, JUNE 30

AMERICA250 — MAGICIAN

MARK ALAN

When: 10:30 a.m.

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

Details: Children can enjoy Magician Mark Alan and his hour-long comedy show with music, sound effects, audience participation and the antics of his sidekick, Bixby. Free program.

JACKI MANNA — FOSSIL FINDERS

When: 1 p.m.

Where: Ormond Beach Regional Library, 30 S. Beach

St., Ormond Beach

Details: See this ventriloquism show featuring puppets, music and magic. Free program.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 1

ARTWAVE YOUTH WORKSHOP: PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SUZANNE MCCARTHY

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

Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach Details: Ages 10-14 will learn about digital photography from guest instructor Suzanne McCarthy. Workshop costs $15 for members; $20 for non-members. Students will need to bring a smartphone, camera or iPad to take photos, which will be printed during class to take home. Visit ormondartmuseum.org.

PALM COAST ASTRONOMY CLUB MEETING

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

Where: Palm Coast Public Library, 2500 Palm Coast Parkway NW, Palm Coast Details: Join the Palm Coast Astronomy Club for its monthly meeting. The topic will be “The Universe in Perspective (Part 4).” Everyone interested in astronomy is welcome. Meeting room

is located to the right after entering the library.

THURSDAY, JULY 2

PENINSULA WOMEN’S CLUB GAMES

When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: Peninsula Club, 415 S. Peninsula Drive, Daytona Beach

Details: All ladies who enjoy cards, lunch and fellowship welcome. Call 386-843-1061.

FRIDAY, JULY 3

FLAGLER BEACH FIRST

FRIDAY When: 6-9 p.m.

Where: Veterans Park, 105 S. Second St., Flagler Beach Details: Entertainment by Soulfire.

SATURDAY, JULY 4 STARS AND STRIPES PARADE

When: 9 a.m.

Where: A1A, from 6th Street North to 6th Street South, Flagler Beach

Details: Presented by the Rotary Club of Flagler Beach, this parade will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States. Part of the United Flagler Fourth festivities.

UNITED FLAGLER 4TH: FIREWORKS OVER THE RUNWAYS

When: 5-10 p.m.

Where: Flagler Executive Airport, 201 Airport Road, Palm Coast

Details: The City of Palm Coast, in partnership with the Flagler County Government, Flagler Beach, and Bunnell, invites residents and visitors to come together for the 2026 United Flagler Fourth Community Celebration. This fireworks event will feature food trucks, vendors, a beer garden, children’s activities and live entertainment. A reading of the Declaration of Independence will take place at 6:30 p.m., following a performance of the National Anthem. At 7 p.m., spectators can cheer on contestants in the first-ever United Flagler Fourth Hot Dog Eating Competition, presented by Hot Diggity Dogs & Shakes. Free.

ORMOND BEACH INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION

When: 8-9:30 p.m.

Where: Rockefeller Gardens, 26 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach

Details: The City of Ormond Beach will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States with its annual Fourth of July celebration. There will be food trucks, live music and fireworks at 9 p.m. Free.

YOUR SCHOOLS

Flagler School

Board honors FPC’s eight state champs

The Flagler County School Board honored Flagler Palm Coast High School’s 2025-26 eight athletic state champions on June 23 at its monthly board meeting. Four of FPC’s five track and field champs attended the meeting — the Class 4A boys 4x400-meter relay team of Logan Jacobelli, Jordan Haymon, Mike Najpaver and Will Roberts. The three state weightlifting champs — Nya Williams, Cody Strawser and Matt McFall — were all competing at the USA Weightlifting National Championships in Colorado Springs and could not attend. But Wil-

liams joined the board meeting spotlight remotely as did state girls triple jump champ Karina Marcelus.

How to learn about Flagler Schools’ VPK options

Two “Launch to Learning” community outreach events are scheduled in July to help families learn about voluntary pre-kindergarten options. The events, hosted by the Flagler County Education Foundation in partnership with Early Learning Coalition of Flagler & Volusia and Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia Flagler counties, are scheduled for 10 a.m.

to noon July 11 at the George Washington Carver Center, 206 E. Drain St, Bunnell, and 10 a.m. to noon July 18 at the Hidden Trails Community Center, 6108 Mahogany Blvd., Bunnell. The events are free and open to all area families with children

from birth to 5 years old.

“Kindergarten readiness starts before the first day of school,” Teresa Rizzo, executive director of the Ed Foundation, said in a press release. “These events are an opportunity for

PAAPC celebrates Philippines

Independence

The Philippine American Association of Palm Coast commemorated the 128th anniversary of Philippines Independence Day with a community celebration June 14 at the Italian American Social Club.

A highlight of the evening was an inspiring address by Honorary Consul Sharol Noblejas of the Philippine Consulate in Florida, who spoke about the importance of preserving Filipino traditions and strengthening the bonds between the Philippines and Filipino communities throughout the United States.

Guests enjoyed an evening filled with cultural pride and

entertainment, including performances by The Jewels, who showcased traditional Filipino folk dances.

“Philippine Independence Day is an opportunity to honor our history, celebrate our culture and bring people together in a spirit of unity and friendship,” said Judy Ostrin, president of PAAPC.

“We are proud to share our heritage with the Palm Coast and Flagler County communities while continuing to build bridges of understanding and cultural appreciation.”

Filipino cultural exhibit at Palm Coast library

As part of the community’s observance of Filipino Heritage Month, the Philippine American Association of Palm Coast invites residents to explore a special cultural exhibit at the Palm Coast Library through July 11.

The exhibit highlights the

history of the Philippines and the experiences of Filipino Americans through photographs, traditional clothing, handcrafted bags, educational displays, indigenous artwork, wood carvings and cultural artifacts. The official month for Filipino Heritage is in October, however it is widely celebrated in June for the recognition of the Independence Day from Spain. Visitors can learn about the country’s journey to independence, its diverse regions and customs, and the traditions that continue to be passed down through generations.

“Palm Coast is a closeknit community, and we are proud to share a part of our heritage with the neighbors and friends who make this community so special,” said Aileen Mariano, PAAPC vice president.

Email stories about your nonprofit organization to brent@observerlocalnews. com.

the next

Research shows VPK helps children enter kindergarten more confident and ready to

Philippine American Association of Palm Coast board members at the Philippine Independence Celebration. Courtesy photo

Flagler Palm Coast’s 4x400-meter state champion track relay team was honored at the Flagler County School Board meeting on June 23 along with state champs Nya Williams (weightlifting) and Karina Marcelus (track and field triple jump) who joined remotely. From left: State 4x400 champs Logan Jacobelli, Jordan Haymon, Mike Najpaver and Will Roberts and track coach David Halliday. Courtesy photo

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REAL ESTATE

Cochran Place home tops list at over $2M

Ahouse at 1301 N. Ocean Shore Blvd., in Cochran Place, was the top real estate transaction for June 6-12, in Flagler County. The house sold on June 12, for $2,065,000. Built in 2021, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a pool, an elevator and 3,005 square feet. The house was listed by Tracy Callahan, of Realty Exchange.

ALEXIS MILLER

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Condos

A condo at 200 Ocean Crest Drive, Unit 233, sold on June 12, for $310,000. Built in 2003, the condo is a 1/1 and has 678 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $315,000.

A condo at 102 Yacht Harbor Drive, Unit 569, sold on June 10, for $499,000. Built in 2006, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,570 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $245,000.

A condo at 100 Cinnamon Beach Way, Unit 934, sold on June 8, for $449,000. Built in 2004, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,682 square feet. It sold in 2015 for $299,000.

A condo at 47 Summerwind Circle, sold on June 8, for $250,000. Built in 2005, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,143 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $274,900.

FLAGLER BEACH

Seaside Landings

A house at 222 Seaside Landings Drive S. sold on June 12, for $1,400,000. Built in 2023,

the house is a 4/3.5 and has a pool, a hot tub, an outdoor kitchen and 3,269 square feet.

PALM COAST

Grand Haven

A house at 9 Sweetwater Court sold on June 10, for $785,000. Built in 2009, the house is a 4/2.5 and has a pool, a hot tub, a fireplace and 2,733 square feet. It sold in 2018 for $415,000.

A house at 16 Lagare St. sold on June 12, for $530,000. Built in 2000, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a hot tub, a fireplace and 2,154 square feet.

Grand Landings

A house at 124 S. Humming-

PALM COAST

Breakaway Trails pool home sells for

$685k

Ahouse in Breakaway Trails at 21 Forest View Way was the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea for the week of May 30 to June 5. The house sold on June 1, for $685,000. Built in 1988, the house is a 4/3 and has two fireplaces, a pool, a spa and 2,837 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $630,000. The house was listed by Cora Winn, of Adams, Cameron & Co., Realtors.

square feet.

Halifax Plantation

The house at 3169 Connemara Drive sold on June 3, for $355,000. Built in 2014, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,919 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $435,000.

The house at 2771 Kinsale Lane sold on June 4, for $280,990. Built in 2026, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,564 square feet.

Hunter’s Ridge

The house at 12 Westland Run sold on June 4, for $389,900. Built in 2013, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,854 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $375,000.

Not in subdivision

The house at 258 Jefferson St. sold on June 1, for $282,500. Built in 2006, the house is a 3/2 and hhas 1,612 square feet. It last sold in 2006 for $199,000.

The house at 646 Hand Ave. sold on June 2, for $415,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,644 square feet. It last sold in 2002 for $135,500.

Oak Forest

The house at 2 Red Cedar Court sold on June 2, for $517,000. Built in 1985, the house is a 3/3 and has a fireplace, a pool, a spa and 1,815 square feet. It last sold in 2025 for $330,000.

The house at 33 Sycamore Circle sold on June 3, for $360,000. Built in 1984, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a fireplace, a pool and 2,051 square feet. It last sold in 2012 for $159,500.

Ormond Terrace

The house at 436 N. Beach St. sold on June 5, for $325,000. Built in 1957, the

house is a 3/1.5 and has 1,732 square feet. It last sold in 1997 for $90,000.

Plantation Bay

The house at 1216 Hampstead Lane sold on June 2, for $535,000. Built in 2003, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a spa and 1,973 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $589,900.

Rio Vista

The house at 672 Cordova Ave. sold on June 3, for $235,000. Built in 1954, the house is a 2/1 and has a spa and 999 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $217,900.

Tomoka Oaks

The house at 52 Oakmont Circle sold on June 1, for $250,000. Built in 1972, the house is a 4/2 with two half baths and has two fireplaces, a pool and 2,711 square feet. It last sold in 1985 for $155,000.

Tropical Mobile

Home Village

The manufactured home at 1808 Woodcrest Drive sold on June 3, for $190,000. Built in 1987, the manufactured home is a 4/2 and has 1,495 square feet. It last sold in 2007 for $119,000.

ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA

Not in subdivision The house at 45 Alamanda

Drive sold on June 1, for $259,000. Built in 1953, the house is a 2/1 and has 864 square feet. It last sold in 2009 for $100,000.

Ocean Aire

The house at 122 Ocean Aire Terrace N. sold on June 2, for $507,500. Built in 1973, the house is a 2/2 and has a pool and 1,489 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $395,000.

Silk Oaks The house at 30 Silk Oaks Drive sold on June 3, for $399,000. Built in 1962, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,244 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $475,000. John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.

WEST DAYTONA BEACH

A house in Latitude Margaritaville at 850 Attitude Ave. was the top real estate transaction in Daytona Beach’s 32124 zip code for the week of May 30 to June 5. The house sold on June 5, for $895,000. Built in 2019, the house is a 2/2.5 and has a pool, a spa, an outdoor kitchen and 2,339 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $469,600.

The house was listed by Cherri Tindall and Robyn Beckett Young, of Realty Hub

Grande Champion

The house at 1088 Morfontaine St. sold on June 2, for $414,990. Built in 2026, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,020 square feet.

Latitude Margaritaville The house at 463 Salty Lime Place sold on June 1, for $383,500. Built in 2023, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,308 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $370,000.

The house at 467 Lost Shaker Way sold on June 5 ,for $449,900. Built in 2020, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,563 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $302,300.

The townhome at 914 Attitude Ave. sold on June 5, for $420,000. Built in 2019, the townhome is a 2/2 and has 1,563 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $480,000.

The house at 996 Champion Ridge Drive sold on June 1, for $349,990. Built in 2026, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,672 square feet.

Home Buoys

Palm Coast Big Buoys win big in their first home game.

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Brenin Striplin got the party started for the Palm Coast Big Buoys in their home opener Wednesday night, June 17, at the Indian Trails Sports Complex.

The former Flagler Palm Coast High School baseball player led off the bottom of the first inning with a double and scored the first run of the game.

The Big Buoys would send 10 men to the plate in the first inning and score 13 runs over the first two innings on the way to a 17-5 victory against the New Smyrna Beach Gnarlies in a game shortened to 6½ innings by the 10-run rule.

The Big Buoys are one of four teams in the first-year Orange State League, a woodbat summer collegiate baseball league. The other teams, in addition to the Gnarlies, are the St. Augustine Sardines and the Cocoa Tailgators.

Palm Coast (3-4) played its first six games on the road before finally coming home.

A sizeable crowd greeted the team and got a chance to watch several hometown players take the field, including FPC alums Striplin, Logan Shudy, Connor May and Reggie Bass,

who started on the mound and got the win for the Big Buoys. And Matanzas High School rising senior P.J. Trettner started in center field.

Striplin, who played second base, went 3-for-4 with a run and an RBI. He had two hits in the Big Buoys’ six-run first inning. For him and many of his teammates, it was a real homecoming.

“It feels amazing to be back home,” he said. “I played Little League here when I was young, till I was 13. Our first game home, it was electric. And we come out, and we molly whop them. It’s awesome. It’s great.”

While the Big Buoys were knocking out 17 hits, including four doubles, Bass pitched five innings, striking out nine batters and allowing three runs on four hits and four walks. Daniel Reyes pitched the final two innings, allowing two runs in the top of the seventh and leaving two runners on base — runners that would have stretched the 2½-hour game even longer had they come in to score.

“Reggie is doing his job,” Big Buoys head coach James Timmons said. “He’s a great kid. He goes out there and he pitches and eats up those innings. If I wanted him to go out there for another two innings, he would have been able to do it and pull through for us.” Bass, who graduated high

school last month, will be pitching for Florida A&M; University next season. He and Striplin grew up playing together at the Palm Coast Little League fields at the Indian Trails Sports Complex.

“It’s nice, growing up together, getting to play on the home field back together

before we all go to college,” Striplin said.

Striplin, who graduated in 2025, played at NCAA Division II Pennsylvania Western University Clarion this spring. He entered the transfer portal after the season and hopes to play baseball at Daytona State College next season.

Shudy, who will be entering his sophomore season at Division III Leslie University of Cambridge, Massachusetts, had a base hit and two walks and drove in two runs and scored a run in the win. May, who will be a junior at

“Our first game home, it was electric. And we come out, and we molly whop them. It’s awesome. It’s great.”

BRENIN STRIPLIN

Division III Methodist in Fayetteville, North Carolina, hit a two-run double in the second inning. And Trettner went 1-for-3 with a walk and scored a run.

The purpose of the woodbat leagues is to give college players some summer competition using wood bats, which are used in pro leagues, instead of metal bats used in high school and college. The high scores in the Orange State League would indicate that the hitters have adapted well.

“I think the wood bats got more juice than the metal,” Striplin said.

But also, pitching has been at a premium.

“We have to work through pitchers. We can only pitch them certain times and certain amounts,” Timmons said.

“So, some games end lop-sided.”

Timmons coaches a Flagler County travel baseball team for 10- to 12-year-olds, which is also called the Big Buoys. He was happy to see the big Big Buoys draw a large crowd in its home opener.

“There were a lot of people, and I was happy our players showed up and did what they know how to do,” he said. “The field was nice. Everything was beautiful here. I’m just happy to be close to home.”

The Big Bouys have 17 more home games on their schedule through July 26. Their next game at Indian Trails is Wednesday, July 1, which begins

games in

days.

of

Former FPC pitcher Reggie Bass, who is headed to Florida A&M, got the win for the Palm Coast Big Buoys in their home opener on June 17. Photos by Brent Woronoff

a stretch

seven home

11

Former FPC baseball player Connor May had a two-run double.

Former FPC baseball player Logan Shudy, who is entering his sophomore season at Leslie College in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is tagged out at third base by the Gnarlies’ Ben Abram (22).

Palm Coast Big Buoys catcher Skyler Milheiser takes a lead off second base.

Big Buoys’ Roberto Reyes watches a wild pitch.

Hit House Academy opens in Bunnell with two indoor batting cages

The facility has a pitching machine in each batting-cage lane and a loft area for viewing with seating.

BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Coaches of the Palm Coast Panthers, a travel-team softball and baseball organization, had been discussing for the past few years about the need in Flagler County for an indoor batting-cage facility

that players of all ages can use. So, they decided to put their idea into action, and on June 20 they held a ribbon cutting for their new business — Hit House Academy at 2323 N. State St., Unit 168, in Bunnell. Jon Christie, the president of the Panthers; his wife, Lexi Christie; coach Joe Striplin and his wife, Arien Striplin; and coach Chrissy Barnes are the owners of Hit House Academy, a two-story facility that has two batting cages with wide lanes and pitching machines for both baseball and softball as well as protective screens for human pitch-

ers and tees for one-on-one work. An upstairs loft overlooks the batting cages and has a seating area with two TVs.

The two-story space for the batting cages allows hitters to have a higher space that more closely resembles a baseball or softball field than do many other screened-in batting cages.

The facility offers individual 30-minute batting-cage sessions with pitching machines, and monthly packages that range from four sessions to 20 sessions.

“In this area, nobody has

SIDELINES

FPC’s Fedun wins national weightlifting title; Williams second Flagler Palm Coast High School rising senior Jackson Fedun has won a USA Weightlifting National Championship.

Fedun, one of seven FPC weightlifters competing at the National Championships in Colorado Springs this week, won the men’s youth under-17 title in the 79-kilogram (174.2 pounds) weight class on Monday, June 22. He hit 291 pounds in his final clean and jerk lift to win the championship by one kilogram (2.2 pounds) with a 238 kilogram total (524.7 pounds) in the snatch and clean and jerk.

Fedun celebrated by jumping into the arms of his coach, Duane Hagstrom, after succsfully completing his final lift. Overall, Fedun won two gold medals, in clean and jerk and total lifts, and a silver in snatch.

This is the second straight year that an FPC lifter has won a national title. Last year, Nya Williams swept the women’s youth title in the 53 kilogram class (116.8 pounds).

Williams, a rising senior, competed again on Tuesday, June 23, and finished second to USA Junior National Team member Jade Morales in the women’s junior 53 kilogram class. Even though Williams is 17,

Pirates’ pair on winning lacrosse team

Matanzas High School lacrosse players Addison Alred and Trinity Johnston won the girls high school division with their adopted team at the 18th annual Father’s Day Invitational, hosted by Florida United Lacrosse, June 20-21 at the Indian Trails Sports Complex in Palm Coast.

Alred and Johnston played with the Miami Chaos, which dominated its competition at the tournament.

this type of indoor facility where you got climate control where people can get out of the heat and go inside to the cool air and get some hitting done and elevate their kids’ games,” Jon Christie said.

Hit House Academy also offers private coaching and plans to eventually add a tutoring service with Arien Striplin, a teacher with more than 20 years experience, serving as academic tutoring director. But their main focus is helping local baseball and softball players improve their hitting skills.

“We’re here to make the kids grow in this community, the Bunnell and Palm Coast area, to compete at a higher level against all other teams in Florida,” Jon Christie said. “This is open to the public. We want Little League kids here. We want kids that are coming up, college kids that want to come in and get some hitting to elevate their game. We want everybody to come here.”

An individual 30-minute batting-cage session costs $40 with monthly packages starting with the Rookie package of four sessions a month at $145 and escalating to the All-

IWLCA Presidents Cup on Nov. 21-23 in Tampa.

The Father’s Day Invitational drew about 150 boys and girls lacrosse teams in divisions from 8U through high school.

Matanzas’ Tate Conner signs to play baseball

Matanzas High School graduate Tate Conner has signed a National Letter of Intent to play baseball at Brewton-Parker Christian

Star package (eight sessions, $250), the MVP package (12 sessions, $365) and the Hall of Fame package (20 sessions, $560).

They will also offer team deals, Joe Striplin said.

“So, if you have a travel team or just a local organiza-

University, an NAIA school in Mount Vernon, Georgia. Conner led the Pirates with a .404 batting average, 15 runs scored and 23 hits. He struck out just twice in 67 at-bats.

“I’m super happy for the kid,” Matanzas baseball coach Sean McManus said.

“He definitely deserves to be playing somewhere. He’s just an all-around athlete. He was a real spark plug there at the top of the lineup.” Conner will join Flagler Palm Coast baseball players Nole Hemmerle and Jordan

tion that wants to get inside reps, we’ll work a deal out with them per player, and they can come so many times a month,” he said. For more information or to book sessions, go to hithouseacademy.com or call 386-3131663.

Gonzalez, who also signed with Brewton-Parker.

Pirates soccer player RJ Cerasi commits Matanzas graduate RJ Cerasi has committed to play soccer at Daytona Beach Christian University. He’ll be a part of the school’s new program.

“RJ’s hard work, dedication and love for the game have earned him this incredible opportunity,” Pirates boys soccer coach Beto Aguilar said.

she moved up to the junior division as a member of USA Weightlifting’s National Team Program. Williams totaled 155 kilograms (341.7 pounds) in her two lifts. Morales, who lifts for the powerhouse Hassle Free Barbell Club of Belmont, California, and has competed on the world stage, totaled 176 kilograms (388 pounds).

Williams won two high school state championships this past season, setting a state clean-and-jerk record of 210 pounds in the 119-pound weight class.

Other FPC lifters at the National Championships include Cody Strawser (scheduled to lift on June 23), Landon Gates (June 24), Joe Casanova (June 24) and Matt McFall (June 25).

Brandie Alred, Matanzas’ girls lacrosse coach and Addison’s mom, had reached out to the tournament director asking if there were any teams in the high school division that needed some players.

“They sent me a list of contacts and I emailed them,” Brandie said. “Bill O’Connell [coach of the Chaos] said a couple of his midfielders weren’t able to make it, so he would love for them to play. We met him Saturday morning, got the jerseys and then they played all weekend.”

The Chaos won four games by a combined score of 615, including two shutouts.

Johnston scored seven goals and added 11 assists over the weekend, while Alred had nine goals and 10 assists.

“They were such a welcoming team,” Brandie Alred said.

The two Matanzas players were invited to play with the Miami team again at the

Savannah Walters steps into the batter’s box at th new Hit House Academy in Bunnell.

A view from the second floor of the two batting cages at Hit House Academy in Bunnell. Photos by Brent Woronoff

Flagler Palm Coast High School’s Jackson Fedun (left) holds up his medals after winning the Youth 79 kg championship on June 22 at the USA Weightlifting National Championships in Colorado Springs. Courtesy photo

Rachel Dailey, APRN

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