PALM COAST
Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
VOLUME 17, NO. 33
History with Habitat PAGE 1B
FREE ON NEWSSTANDS | THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Hansen: ‘We have to stop this’ Greg Hansen and the Flagler County Commission to appeal Bunnell’s Project Butterfly landfill approval. PAGE 9A
Lakeview Estates makes progress with City Council
9/11
25 YEARS LATER PAGES 3A-4A
Development on former Matanzas Golf Course to include city park. PAGE 6A INSIDE SHAPE ELUSIVE
Shape of Water restaurant proposal falls short over parking concerns. PAGE 10A
CITY BUDGET
$17 million Town Center purchase reshapes Palm Coast’s budget. PAGE 6A
DELIVERY TRAINING
How to deliver a baby: AdventHealth adds simulator to train staff in Flagler County for emergency deliveries. PAGE 12A
Over 500 participated in a 9/11 Memorial Tribute Climb at the Hammock Beach Golf Resort and Spa on Friday, Sept. 11. Photo by Rachel Mills
FOURTH WIN IN A ROW
LIFE SAVER
Lifeguard Dempsey Manhart was honored for helping to save a young boy’s life in Daytona Beach. PAGE 3B
FPC runs past First Coast. 8B INDEX
Business..................... PAGE 6B Calendar..................... PAGE 2B Cops Corner................PAGE 2A Crossword.................PAGE 13B Letters.......................PAGE 13A Public Notices............ PAGE 6C Schools....................... PAGE 3B Sports......................... PAGE 8B Tributes ...................... PAGE 4C Real Estate................. PAGE 5B
FPC’s Ehimen Ajede ran for 131 yards with a 34-yard touchdown.
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FPC football player and sousaphone player in the band Kellen Hawkins. Photos by Keishia McLendon
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
NEWS BRIEFS Three juveniles arrested in Ormond Beach shooting
Three juveniles were arrested on Sept. 7, after the Ormond Beach Police Department Criminal Investigations Unit determined they fired multiple rounds from a semiautomatic handgun into an Ormond Beach residence. At approximately 4:07 a.m. Sept. 7, Ormond Beach police officers were dispatched to a residence within Woodmere Circle in reference to a shooting. Officers arrived and found evidence that the residence had been fired upon, including a bullet fragment lodged between two panes of glass, a bullet hole and numerous spent casings along the roadway. Detectives interviewed the reporting party and surrounding neighbors as part of the investigation. From there, it was discovered that the reporting party’s child had been involved in a drug-related incident with the juveniles who allegedly fired at the residence. Following an extensive investigation, the Criminal Investigations Unit identified and located the three juveniles involved. One of the juveniles is 15 years old. The other two are 17. All three were charged with felonies, including shooting into a building and aggravated assault.
Sex offender gets 30 years in prison for kidnapping of 11-year-old boy
Darnell Hairston, 61, of Hastings, has been sentenced to 30 years in state prison in connection with the kidnapping and abuse of an 11-yearold boy, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office. According to the FCSO, Hairston, a registered sex offender, pleaded no contest Aug. 19 to kidnapping — inflicting bodily harm, aggravated child abuse, battery by strangulation, robbery with a deadly weapon and resisting an officer without violence. At a Sept. 9 sentencing hearing, Circuit Judge Dawn Nichols found Hairston guilty on each count and sentenced him to 30 years in state prison. “This was one of the most successful ‘See Something, Say Something’ cases we’ve ever had — it led to the recovery of a missing child and the next three decades behind bars for the sex offender that was responsible,” Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly said. “Of course, we’re still waiting for complete closure, as his co-conspirator’s case is still ongoing, but this is an important first step.” Hairston remains at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, where he has been held without bond since his arrest, and is awaiting transfer to the Florida Department of Corrections. The case dates to Dec. 31, 2025, when deputies conducted a traffic stop on U.S. 1 near Whiteview Drive after a caller reported seeing Hairston traveling with two juve-
COPS CORNER SEPT. 6
KNOCK, KNOCK Early morning — B-Section, Palm Coast
Aggravated assault and burglary. A 58-year-old Palm Coast man was arrested after deputies said he used a ham-
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niles, one of whom had been reported missing in St. Johns County. Deputies recovered the missing 11-year-old during the stop. FCSO said the child later told detectives that Hairston had lured him to a wooded campsite in Flagler Estates, choked him until he lost consciousness, threatened him with a knife and firearm, tied him up and placed duct tape over his mouth. The child told detectives Hairston held him at the campsite for multiple days and made him travel on the floorboard of his truck covered by a blanket. A 16 year old whom FCSO detectives identified as Hairston’s co-conspirator, is still awaiting trial.
FCSO Chief Deputy Barile resigns; position will remain vacant Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Joseph Barile resigned from the agency effective Sept. 10, according to the FCSO. Barile had served with the Sheriff’s Office since Jan. 31, 2007, working in assignments that included Community Policing, Investigative Services, Homeland Security and the Special Investigation Unit. He was appointed chief deputy on Jan. 14, 2025. The Sheriff’s Office said Barile also played a role in implementing new technology that served as a “force multiplier” for the agency. “We respect Joe’s decision to resign from the agency and move his life in a new direction. We wish Joe the best in
mer and power tools to break through a wall separating his duplex from his neighbor’s home while making threats. According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, the neighbor recorded the
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The Sheriff’s Office said Staly determined there was a greater need for additional deputies to handle the county’s growing population and increasing calls for service. As a result, he decided not to fill the chief deputy position. Those duties will instead be divided among the division chiefs, chief of staff and sheriff, as they had been previously. Chief Deputy Joseph Barile first joined the FCSO in 2007. Courtesy photo
his future endeavors,” Sheriff Rick Staly said in the FCSO news release. In his Sept. 10 resignation letter to Staly, Barile said he did not make the decision lightly but was ready to “start a new chapter” in his life. He thanked the agency for the opportunities he received during his nearly 20 years with FCSO and said he was honored to have served the community since January 2007. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the chief deputy position will not be filled as the agency deals with staffing and budget concerns. FCSO said its fiscal year 2026-27 budget negotiations with the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners and the city of Palm Coast have been difficult. The county approved four new deputy sheriff positions but reduced overall funded staffing by one position, while Palm Coast indicated it would fund only two of the nine deputy sheriff positions previously agreed upon for the upcoming fiscal year.
man hammering and using a power tool while yelling threats, including, “I’m going to be crawling through the walls and figure out ways to make your life hell.” Deputies found a hole about the size of a softball in the shared wall. The man refused to come outside for more than 90 minutes before deputies convinced him to surrender. Deputies found a hammer and electric string trimmer covered in drywall residue near the hole. The man was arrested on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and burglary with assault or battery. He was taken to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility and held without bond.
SEPT. 7
POSTMARKED DISCONTENT 12:25 p.m. — First block of Hunt Master Court, Ormond Beach Vandalism. An Ormond Beach resident contacted police after his mailbox was flipped 45 degrees to the right. His suspected culprit? His 80-year-old neighbor. According to a police report, the resident believed
Two arrested after hit-and-run; FCSO says truck was in garage Two Palm Coast residents were arrested after a hit-andrun crash that injured another driver, with investigators saying the pair tried to conceal the damaged truck inside a garage, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office. On Aug. 28, deputies responded to a crash at Russell Drive and Ruth Drive in Palm Coast. The Sheriff’s Office said a silver Dodge Ram pickup truck struck another vehicle with enough force to break its engine block and injure the driver. Investigators said both occupants of the truck got out after the crash, collected pieces of the truck that had broken off and were lying in the roadway, and then left the scene. A witness reported seeing a silver Dodge Ram with frontend damage speeding away. A tip later led deputies to a home on Roxbury Lane, less than a mile from the crash. Surveillance video from a neighbor showed the damaged truck returning to the
his neighbor had turned his mailbox because of a prior incident. In early May, the neighbor had simulated a sex act with the resident’s mailbox. Then the following day, the neighbor told him he would kill his acts and voiced rude sentiments concerning the appearance of the resident and his wife. The Wednesday before the mailbox turning incident, the resident said he spotted his neighbor walking his dog by his house in the morning. A bag of dog feces was left next to his mailbox, which someone later ran over, spraying it all over his mailbox and front yard. The resident had to clean it up, the report states. As for this incident, the resident was able to turn the mailbox around and tighten its screws.
SEPT. 11
LOOKING FOR A WELL-LIT PLACE TO STOP Just before midnight — Kingswood Drive, Palm Coast Fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement. A 42-year-old Palm Coast man was arrested after deputies said he refused to stop for a traffic stop and continued driving through several roads and parking lots.
home about three minutes after the crash, with one person running to the front door while the other opened the garage, the Sheriff’s Office said. The truck was then driven into the garage and the door was closed. Deputies identified the driver as 43-year-old Nina Holley of Palm Coast and the passenger as 38-yearold Matthew Green of Palm Coast. Investigators said Holley’s driver’s license was suspended and that she had four previous convictions for driving with a suspended license. “You can try to hide the evidence, but you can’t hide it from the Sheriff’s Office,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “These two crashed into someone, injured them, and then figured picking up the pieces and shutting the garage door would make it all disappear.” Staly added: “If you cause a crash and run, we are going to find you and hold you accountable.” Holley was arrested on charges of leaving the scene of a crash with injuries, tampering with evidence and driving with a suspended license as a third or subsequent offense. Green was arrested on charges of tampering with evidence and accessory after the fact. Both were taken to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility. Holley was released on $7,500 bond, while Green was being held without bond at the time of the Sheriff’s Office news release. Send news tips to Rich Carroll at rich@observerlocalnews.com.
According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy attempted to stop the man on Kingswood Drive after observing a traffic infraction. Despite the deputy activating his emergency lights and siren, the man continued driving erratically. The vehicle eventually stopped in the parking lot of the Palm Coast Professional Complex off Old Kings Road North, where deputies conducted a high-risk traffic stop and took the man into custody. Deputies said the man gave conflicting explanations for why he didn’t stop, first saying he was looking for a well-lit area and later saying he didn’t see the deputy behind him. The man was arrested for fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer with lights and sirens activated. He was taken to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility and later released on $2,500 bond.
SEPT. 13
BATTERY CHARGE 2:17 p.m. — 1000 block of Arroyo Parkway, Ormond Beach Suspicious person. A 57-yearold Daytona Beach man found at a vacant residence told police he was simply charging his phone — and had permission to do so. Police responded to a call about a suspicious person after a witness spotted the man entering the home with a bicycle. The witness saw the man leave his bike on the back steps and climb in through a broken window, according to a police report. When police arrived, the man was sitting between the home and the steps using his bike and backpack to block him from view. He claimed he hadn’t entered the home and was charging his phone through an outdoor power outlet, which police observed. The man said the neighbor had given him permission. Though the home is vacant, police report it has been recently remodeled and managed by a property management company, who declined to pursue charges. The man was asked not to return to the residence.
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Hammock Beach Golf Resort and Spa hosted its sixth annual 9/11 tribute climb on Friday, Sept. 11. Photos courtesy of Karen R. Johnson
A climb to remember The annual 9/11 climb at Hammock Beach Golf Resort and Spa saw a record 500 people participate. ABE MILLS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Emotions, reflection, unity and American pride were on display during the sixth annual 9/11 Memorial Tribute Climb at the Hammock Beach Resort and Spa on Friday, Sept. 11, marking the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks. The climb had record breaking numbers at nearly 500 first responders, students, community members and visitors. Many climbed 110 flights of stairs to honor
Photo by Rachel Mills
the fallen of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Event founder and CEO Lacy Martin was grateful for the community involvement. “I’m so grateful for all the students that are here,” Martin said. “We have Flagler Schools, Daytona State nursing students, Matanzas High Junior ROTC. It’s just a beautiful way for the community to come together, be patriots, and just love on each other.” Prior to the climb, there was a helicopter flyover, a moment of silence led by Chaplain Nate Karr, bagpipes and drums playing “Amazing Grace” and the singing of the national anthem by Dr. Althia Thompson. Community leaders shared their thoughts during the ceremony. “It’s also important to remember because we want to make sure that we never go back to that day again,” Flagler County Fire Chief Michael Tucker said. Flagler County Sheriff Chief of Staff Mark Strobridge also spoke. “We all know where we were, what we heard, when we saw this tragic event unfold,” Strobridge said. “I received a call from my boss who said, ‘Hey, something’s going on that’s going to change the world.’ And as a nation, we had to teach the world that we are united and resilient in all that we do.” The climbers showed their resilience in 80-degree temperatures while wearing full firefighter gear while climbing the stairs.
Flagler County Fire Rescue Chief Michael Tucker
“As a firefighter in upstate New York, this is my 11th time for James Gray,” Jeremy Hobson said as he climbed with his 4-year old daughter in his arms. James Gray was a firefighter on FDNY Ladder 20 and was killed at the age of 34 while rescuing people during the attacks in 2001. “Their spirit is with us as we fight evil across the world and in our community,” Strobridge said. “They were called to serve. Let us all be worthy of their sacrifice.” The Memorial Tribute Climb Scholarship was awarded to former FPC
Fire Academy student Evan Achins. “I received the first ever 9-11 Memorial Scholarship,”
Achins said. “I’m going to use the money to further my education in paramedicine.”
Photo by Rachel Mills
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
Flags for the fallen: Hammock Dunes’ tribute on Camino Del Mar Hammock Dunes residents place 2,977 flags for each person who died in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. ABE MILLS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The Hammock Dunes Owners Association hosted a Patriot Day ceremony on Friday, Sept. 11, and residents placed 2,977 American flags along Camino Del Mar, representing each life lost during the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The Social Activity Committee planned the event as a way to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the attacks and the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. The committee is made up of volunteers in the community.
“This is a very important event that needs to be remembered, and we wanted to make an impact,” said Lisa Fisher, social activity committee lead. “As a social committee, we try to bring the community together, and this is a very important community event, and we had a lot of people show up, and we’re very pleased with the turnout.” The event included Hammock resident Rosemary Del Rosario, who performed a rendition of the national anthem. Guest speaker Julie Duffy shared her experience. “I lost a lot of co-workers, a lot of friends,” Duffy said. “I went to five funerals in the next week. So, it really hit close to home to me and I will never forget.” It was the first time that Hammock community members placed flags to remember 9/11.
“These are little flags, but they have a big impact when you see those flags out there,” said Mike Hayek, committee lead. Along with Fisher and Hayek, Beth Mohan also helps lead the Social Activity Committee. “[There] is a lot of emotion,” Mohan said. “You know, that day was so touching for all of us. [Today] we had a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m., when the first tower was hit, then, 9:03 a.m., when the second tower was hit. Let’s go remember and never forget.” The committee leaders said that they would like for the event to become a tradition in the community. “The community was here and they all took flags and they all went and planted them,” Mohan said. “[Patriot] Day has just become a day that we have to honor.”
Members of the Hammock Dunes Social Activities Committee: back row: Brian Kargel, Debbie Hayek, Joanne Blood, Kelly Pirrello, Tina Ford, Lisa Fisher, Christi Barnard and Rosemary Del Rosario; front: Nancy Geisler, Mike Hayek, Beth Mohan and Joyce Casis. Courtesy photo
Palm Coast Elks Lodge Memorial Ceremony participants: Coastal Florida Police and Fire Pipes and Drums, Tom Coleman and Whitney Merrill (white hat). Right side of monument — Jerry DiMenna and Gail Vandeventer DiMenna (red shirts), Jerry Dickens, Sr. (seated), Jerry O’Gara (standing behind Dickens), Elks Lodge Exalted Ruler Pete Lehnertz (red shirt), Palm Coast Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill and Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly. Courtesy photo
Elks honor 9/11 first responders PALM COAST ELKS LODGE
About 200 people attended the Palm Coast Elks Lodge’s 9/11 Memorial Ceremony on the morning of Friday, Sept. 11. Master of Ceremonies Jerry DiMenna, a retired U.S. Marine major and former NCIS special agent, commenced the ceremony by introducing the Coastal Florida Police and Fire Pipes and Drums, which performed “God Bless America.” A flag presentation recognized the organizations that responded to the World Trade Center terrorist attack with members of each agency standing in recognition. Following the national anthem, Lodge Chaplain George Hanns, a former U.S. Army serviceman, delivered an invocation written by former Lodge Chaplain Gail Vandeventer DiMenna. The invocation referenced the lodge’s World Trade Center memorial. “Let this ceremony show to the forces of evil that we, as a country, like our lodge memorial of World Trade Center steel, may be bent, but cannot be broken,” Hanns stated. Lodge Exalted Ruler Pete Lehnertz, a former U.S. Navy serviceman, welcomed VIPs in attendance. Speakers included Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly, Palm Coast Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill, retired Elizabeth, New Jersey, Deputy Fire Chief Whitney
City of Palm Coast marks 25th years since 9/11 The City of Palm Coast marked the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on Friday, Sept. 11, with the annual Candlelight Memorial Service at Heroes Memorial Park. Palm Coast Fire Department Deputy Chief Bradd Clark served as master of ceremonies for the event,
Merrill and Lodge Secretary and Past Exalted Ruler Jerry O’Gara, a retired New York City Department of Correction warden. Merrill spoke of how his airplane was forced to land on 9/11 and his subsequent effort to return from the Midwest so he could respond to the World Trade Center tragedy. O’Gara spoke about the largely unknown but critical role the Department of Correction played in the rescue and recovery efforts. DiMenna spoke about being hired by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey as the Port Authority TransHudson train system security director 14 years after 9/11 and his mandate to supervise the completion of the multibillion-dollar PATH security technology and infrastructure project which included the World Trade Center Transportation Hub. It was a project that took him into the bowels of the remains of the original World Trade Center, an experience that he described as eerie, surreal and melancholy and one that gave him great respect for those who sacrificed and risked their lives on 9/11 and afterwards. All those in attendance at the ceremony who had been involved in the response, rescue, and recovery efforts were recognized and received a rousing ovation. A Palm Coast Elks Lodge wreath ceremony, with agen-
cy wreaths presented in memory of the fallen, took place in front of a table displaying World Trade Center artifacts positioned beneath the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey World Trade Center Memorial Flag. Prior to the presentation of the final wreath, honoring the Fire Department of the City of New York, Merrill recited the history of the “Tolling of the Five Bells.” Retired New York City firefighter and U.S. Marine veteran Tom Coleman tolled the fire department bell. The Coastal Florida Police and Fire Pipes and Drums performed “Amazing Grace.” The lodge’s Past Exalted Ruler, Jerry Dickens Sr., told the history of the lodge’s 9/11 memorial, which contains sections of World Trade Center steel from both the North and South Towers. He explained how lodge members, many of whom had responded to 9/11, obtained the steel and constructed the monument. Hanns delivered the benediction, utilizing an excerpt from Pope Benedict XVI’s prayer at Ground Zero. The ceremony concluded when lodge soloist Gail Vandeventer DiMenna sang her rendition of “God Bless America,” which was joined in by those in attendance. Many sang with tears in their eyes. Finally, guests proceeded outside to the lodge monument to place flowers and share a moment of reflection.
which featured remarks from Palm Coast Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill, Palm Coast Mayor Mike Norris, an invocation from Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Chaplain Dominic Scardigno, a firefighter memorial bell tolling led by Fire Department Chaplain Chris Cottle, and a benediction from Father Sergio Santos of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church. Over 100 residents gath-
ered to join Berryhill, Norris, Cottle and Sheriff Rick Staly in lighting candles at dusk. “Being intentional about remembering the events of 9/11 isn’t a ‘nice to have’, it’s a ‘must-have’ and it’s our duty to teach future generations to never forget,” Berryhill said. “The responsibility to carry the story forward is our responsibility, and this event is just one way that we are able to fulfill it.”
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
Lakeview Estates to move forward $17 million purchase reshapes city budget The proposal would allow 39 homes on Tract 3, commercial development on U.S. 1 and a future city park. RICH CARROLL MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER
The Palm Coast City Council voted 3-1 on Sept. 15 to advance amendments allowing additional residential and commercial development on the former Matanzas Woods Golf Course property. The council approved the Lakeview Estates comprehensive plan and master planned development amendments on first reading, with Vice Mayor Theresa Pontieri and Council members Charles Gambaro and David Sullivan voting in favor. Mayor Mike Norris voted against both measures. The applications are scheduled to return to the council for a final vote on Oct. 6. The council previously tabled the applications on Sept. 1 to give the developer time to address concerns involving wooded buffers, possible arsenic contamination, the proposed city park and the future of the property’s remaining undeveloped land. Under the proposal, the developer would be able to build the project’s remaining 39 homes on Tract 3, with access limited to Lakeview Boulevard. The amendment would also change about 20 acres of Tract 9 along U.S. 1 from Greenbelt to Mixed Use, allowing up to 250,000 square feet of commercial development. The property originally had entitlements for 272 homes. City staff said 221 lots have already received varying lev-
els of approval, leaving 51 residential entitlements. Converting the 20-acre portion of Tract 9 to commercial use would reduce the remaining number to 39. The proposal also calls for the developer to convey Tract 8 to the city for a future park at no cost and without receiving park impact fee credits. Pontieri said the city needs to make sure the land is suitable for an active neighborhood park and not simply undeveloped open space. “This is supposed to be the public benefit,” Pontieri said. “We need to actually make sure it’s a public benefit.” Senior Planner Michael Hanson said Tract 8 is approximately 11.5 acres, although the city does not yet have a formal wetland delineation for the site. Staff agreed to further evaluate how the property could support a park. Pontieri also requested that the agreement require soil boring to a depth of at least 18 inches on Tract 8. If arsenic is found above levels considered safe for human use, the developer would be required to remediate the property before conveying it to the city. Attorney Michael Chiumento III, representing property owner Matanzas GC Palm Coast LLC, said an arsenic study had been completed years ago and was approved by the city. However, he could not confirm during the meeting how deep the testing went. “Clearly understood that at any point in time when we convey the property to you all that it needs to meet those requirements for arsenic,” Chiumento said. “And we’re fine with that.” The amended agreement would also require a minimum 50-foot view-protection zone along Tract 3 where the proposed homes would border
existing residential lots. Chiumento said the developer also intends to preserve an existing stand of mature trees behind the homes. Pontieri pushed to retain the existing 150-foot view protection zone along Tract 9. The developer had proposed reducing it to 100 feet but agreed to work with city staff on revisions before the final vote. Pontieri said maintaining the buffer was important for residents whose homes border the proposed commercial area. “I’m very cognizant of how these residents will feel about this and how I would feel if I were in their shoes,” she said. The developer also agreed to give the city about 100 acres of undeveloped land, in addition to the proposed park site. The land could be preserved or used for stormwater management, helping ensure it is not developed in the future. The Planning and Land Development Regulation Board voted 5-1 in May to recommend approval of the comprehensive plan amendment with limits on development intensity. However, the board voted unanimously to recommend denial of the master planned development amendment after hearing opposition from residents. Norris said he could not support the proposal. “These are my neighbors, and I’m not willing to sell my neighbors out in their views for a park,” Norris said. “I know we need commercial on U.S. 1, but it’s not in the best interest of the city, in my view.” Pontieri called the revised proposal a compromise that reduces the number of homes, provides land to the city and could prevent another attempt to change the development plan in the future.
Town Center land deal forces the City of Palm Coast to weigh how much to borrow and dip into reserves.
tional money from appropriated fund balance, the city would not provide the additional funding for microsurfacing and road infrastructure that it had in previous years. The council ultimately approved a tentative fiscal year 2027 budget of $533,947,885. RICH CARROLL The amount was adjusted MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER during the hearing to include $250,000 for the animal shelThe Palm Coast City Coun- ter initiative and $15,000 for cil’s $17 million Town Cen- the arts. ter land purchase generated Council members voted 4-1 significant discussion during to set the tentative property its Sept. 9 budget hearing, tax rate at the rolled-back rate as council members debat- of 4.1387 mills, slightly highed how much of the city’s er than the current 4.0893 reserves should be used to mills. The rolled-back rate is pay for the property and how the rate designed to generate much should be borrowed. roughly the same property The proposed fiscal year tax revenue as the previous 2027 budget assumes the city year from existing properties, will reduce its general fund after accounting for changes reserves to 20% to help finance in property values. New conthe purchase. Under that sce- struction is excluded from nario, the city would take that calculation. The rate is out an $11 million expected to genline of credit with “One of the reasons erate about $45.5 estimated annual million in property you have reserves tax revenue. interest of about $550,000, leavPontieri made is for one-time ing approximately the motion but expenses that we conditioned her $13.8 million in reserves. Staff didn’t know were support on providestimated that ing up to $330,000 going to happen. amount would for two additional cover about two This is that kind of deputies through and a half months the city’s contract thing.” of city expenses. with the Flagler DAVE SULLIVAN, Vi ce M ayo r County Sheriff’s Theresa Pont- City Council member Office. ieri said she was “I’ll make a uncomfortable drawing down motion to approve the adopted the city’s reserves that far, millage rate as stated with the particularly while the city caveat that we fund $330,000 faces other financial uncer- to the sheriff’s budget for two tainties and priorities. additional deputies,” Pontieri “I have a problem going said. “Otherwise I would not down to only two and a half be voting for this millage.” months of expenses,” Pontieri When council members said. “I’ve heard on this dais a questioned where the money lot over the past few months would come from, Pontieri that we’re worried about said she believed the city Amendment 3. That was one could find it within the genexcuse why we couldn’t fund eral fund. the sheriff’s deputies. Yet here “I think out of a $45 milwe are borrowing $11 million, lion budget, $330,000 can be not funding other SAP pri- found to fund two deputies,” orities that we had discussed, she said. and also bringing our reserve Mayor Mike Norris supbalance down to less than ported adding the deputies three months of expenses.” but said the money would “I voted no for a reason,” she have to come from reductions added. “This is exactly why.” elsewhere unless City ManagCouncil Member David Sul- er Mike McGlothlin identifies livan argued that using more another funding source. of the city’s reserves would “If we’re going to fund two reduce the amount Palm new deputies, you’re going to Coast needs to borrow and have to cut other staff unless save money on interest. you can find it somewhere “One of the reasons you else,” Norris said. “I’ll leave have reserves is for one-time that up to you. But I’m not expenses that we didn’t know going to sit here and bicker were going to happen,” Sulli- about ‘we need to cut this job.’” van said. “This is that kind of Council members Charles thing.” Gambaro and Ty Miller joined Sullivan said the land pur- Pontieri and Norris in supchase resulted from the city’s porting the millage motion. legal situation and described Sullivan voted no. it as the better of two bad The council also discussed choices. He said he wanted to $1.5 million previously budkeep the city’s interest pay- geted for a proposed YMCA ments and carrying costs “to project involving an Olympica minimum.” sized swimming pool. Because Staff gave the council three an agreement will not be comoptions for paying for the pleted before the current fisTown Center property, with cal year ends Sept. 30, council the tradeoff being how much members agreed to move the the city would borrow versus funding into fiscal year 2027. how much it would take from Pontieri said the city needs reserves. Keeping reserves at a larger swimming facility, 25% would mean borrowing noting that some local famiabout $14 million and paying lies travel long distances for an estimated $700,000 a year competitive swimming. in interest. Dropping reserves “We desperately need an to 20% would reduce the bor- Olympic sized pool,” Pontrowing to $11 million, while ieri said. “I think this is really going down to 15% would cut our only opportunity to fund the loan to $7.5 million and something like this in the the estimated annual inter- most fiscally responsible way est to $390,000. Under the we can.” 15% option, the city would Gambaro said the city’s have about $10.3 million left financial commitment should in reserves. send a clear message to the The discussion also high- Flagler County School Dislighted the effect the purchase trict that Palm Coast is precould have on other city pri- pared to move forward. orities. Pontieri noted that “There’s $3 million here the budget did not initially that we’re putting in a variety account for the $250,000 of different forms,” Gambaro the council had committed said. “I don’t know what other toward the joint city-county signal they need.” animal shelter initiative. Staff The budget and millage rate said the money could be add- are still tentative. The couned but would affect how much cil will hold its final budget fund balance was available for hearing at 5:15 p.m. Sept. 23 at Palm Coast City Hall’s Jon the Town Center purchase. Pontieri also questioned the Netts Community Wing. Email rich@observerlocal impact on road funding. Staff confirmed that without addi- news.com.
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
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Final admin candidate withdraws, leaving Flagler County to start over
Dance disagreed. “I’m not in favor of hiring a big fancy firm,” Dance said. “We’re in the process of saving every hundred thousand dollars we can right now.” Dance instead supported waiting until the new commission is seated and using the next several weeks to determine what the board wants in its next administrator. He said the pending change on the commission may also have complicated the previous search because candidates knew Hansen’s seat would change hands in November. “The thing that I got out of it is we don’t know what we want,” Dance said. Carney pushed back on that assessment, saying commissioners spent significant time revising the administrator’s job description and developing the proposed employment contract.
“We know what we want. We know what we need,” Carney said. “There’s somebody out there. We just have to find them.” Carney said she was comfortable waiting until November but wanted the county to investigate professional recruiters in the meantime. Commission Chair Leann Pennington said she believes a recruiting firm may ultimately be the better option but wants commissioners to see firm pricing before making that decision. “We’ll know about Amendment 3. We’ll have firm pricing in front of us. We’ll have a new board member seated, and we’ll make the decision in that meeting,” Pennington said. Hansen, who will leave the commission in November, said he would support whatever direction the majority chooses but cautioned that money spent on a recruiter has to come from somewhere, particularly as the county prepares for possible future budget reductions. Picano will now collect proposals from firms of different sizes and compare their costs and services with what county staff provided during the first search. The commission is expected to decide how to restart the administrator search after the new board member is seated in November.
over the last quarter-century from a small decorative Halloween event with candy giveaways, to a full-scale haunted house. Last year’s Hall of Terror drew nearly 6,000 visitors over two nights. PCFD Lt. Dan Driscoll has been the event’s “Boo Master” for the last 13 years. He has announced that this will be his final year as the event’s director. “It’s a bittersweet feeling to be leaving the helm of the Hall of Terror after this year, but I have no doubt that our new Boo Masters are ready to steer this event into the future and continue its tremendous success,” Driscoll said. Volunteers are needed for all aspects of the event, in-
cluding performers, technical assistants, makeup artists, production design, etc. If you are interested in participating, please fill out the volunteer form at bit.ly/4ymJ7Df. High school students may use this as an opportunity to get community service hours. A low-sensory hour for individuals with sensory sensitivities, is scheduled 6-7 p.m. each night. Parking is available at the fire station’s adjacent parking lot. Additional overflow parking will be available at Kohl’s parking lot if necessary. The Hall of Terror is free and open to all ages. Parents or guardians are recommended to accompany children under 13. Food Trucks will be on site.
RICH CARROLL MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER
Flagler County commissioners are considering bringing in a professional recruiting firm to restart their search for a county administrator after sole finalist Aaron Van Kleeck withdrew his name from consideration. The County Commission reached a consensus during a Sept. 14 workshop to have Human Resources Director Charlie Picano gather pricing and services from executive recruiting firms. Commissioners plan to revisit the issue after a new commissioner is seated in November. Commissioner Pam Richardson said she favors using a professional firm rather than repeating the process. “I believe that we need to go to a firm that their expertise is strictly that,” Richardson said. “We went through their whole group. There was 30 people.” Richardson said she did not want another search to take six months, although she said there is not an immediate need to hire an administrator. Commissioner Kim Carney also supported looking at a professional recruiter. She said the previous search took too long and questioned whether going back to the same pool of applicants would produce a different result. “We’re just going to get the same applicants,” Carney said.
YOUR TOWN Palm Coast Hall of Terror returns Oct. 30-31 to Fire Station 21
The Palm Coast Fire Department’s Hall of Terror makes its return to Fire Station 21, 9 Corporate Drive, on Oct. 3031, 7-10 p.m. each night. This year’s theme will be a return to cinematic horror’s roots with “Universal Monsters.” Founded in 2001 by Former Palm Coast Fire Chief Jerry Forte, and former Lt. Rich Cline, the event has evolved
Aaron Van Kleeck. Courtesy photo
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
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Bunnell City Commission remains silent on Project Butterfly landfill Several residents urged commissioners to oppose it, but it was not on the agenda. RICH CARROLL MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER
Debate about the proposed Project Butterfly landfill returned to Bunnell City Hall on Sept. 14, this time before the City Commission, as several residents urged city leaders to stop the project. But commissioners did not discuss the landfill during their first meeting since the Bunnell Planning, Zoning and Appeals Board voted 3-1 on Sept. 1 to approve a special exception for the proposed Class 1 landfill. Project Butterfly was not on the City Commission’s Sept. 14 agenda, but the residents’ concerns were raised during the meeting’s general public comment period. After the speakers finished, Bunnell Mayor Catherine Robinson told the audience that commissioners had listened to their concerns. But, she said, “It is not on our agenda, so we are not going to discuss the landfill. But certainly we are listening to what you had to say, and it’s the first time this has come up to us.” Residents raised concerns
YOUR TOWN Kiwanis Club install new officers, presents annual awards Flagler Palm Coast Kiwanis Club held its 49th annual dinner meeting and awards ceremony on Sept. 9 at the Flagler Palm Coast High School Bistro.
about the landfill’s potential effects on nearby farms, groundwater and Bunnell’s rural character. Brittany Kinney, whose family has farmed in the area for generations, asked the commission to support an appeal of the PZA’s decision. Kinney said her family’s farmland is near the proposed landfill and argued that the project conflicts with Bunnell’s efforts to preserve agricultural land. “Our rural way of life is being threatened,”Kinney said. She asked commissioners to protect nearby residents on well water and thousands of acres of surrounding farmland. Other speakers questioned whether the landfill fits the community’s vision for Bunnell. Chelsea Herbert, the lone PZA member to vote against the special exception on Sept. 1, spoke as a Bunnell resident and business owner. Herbert said residents are frustrated with the direction of development in the city and said growth does not have to come at the expense of Bunnell’s identity. “This is not who we want to be,” Herbert said. “We can grow and we can develop responsibly in a direction that is beneficial and increase economic vitality and creates jobs without being a dump.” The PZA approved Project
Ed Pruitt was installed as president and Stephanie Ellis was installed as vice president for the 2026-27 year. Past president and board Member Mike McElroy was presented with the Kiwanian of the Year award. Ann Babcock, a Kiwanian since 1988, was presented the George F. Hixson Fellowship in recognition of her significant contributions to Kiwanis. Board member and awards chairman Frank Consentino provided a review of the club’s accomplishments in the past year.
“Our rural way of life is being threatened.” BRITTANY KINNEY
Butterfly’s special exception after a packed Sept. 1 meeting in which residents and Flagler County officials raised concerns about groundwater, agriculture, traffic, odors and the amount of time the public had to review the proposal. The project calls for a Class 1 landfill on approximately 610 acres at 518 County Road 45 west of Bunnell. The property is currently used as a sod farm and is zoned Agriculture and Silviculture. City staff has said a solid waste management facility can be considered on the property through the special exception process. The PZA approved the special exception 3-1, with Herbert casting the lone dissenting vote. The approval does not allow construction to begin. The project would still need additional state permitting and city approvals, including major site plan approval. SECURITY CONCERN
While commissioners did not debate Project Butterfly on Sept. 14, the controversy surrounding the Sept. 1 hearing surfaced again later in the meeting when Bunnell Police
Library of My Own provided books to students in Flagler Schools’ summer reading program. The club participated in the Back to School Jam. The club recognized 18 high school students in its Senior of the Month programs, providing them with $3,600 in stipends. The club continued to sponsor youth leadership programs: four K-Kids in elementary schools, two builders clubs in middle schools and a Key Club at Flagler Palm Coast High School. The club provided $48,000
County Commissioner Greg Hansen: ‘We have to stop this’
hensive plans, compatibility and coordination between the two governments. Commissioner Andy Dance said the county had little time to fully review the proposal before the PZA hearing because details about the project remained confidential until shortly before the meeting. He said the county has identified “at least four” significant issues involving Bunnell’s code and the comprehensive plans. Commissioner Greg Hansen made his opposition to the landfill clear. “Well, I just think for a lot of reasons, we have to stop this,” Hansen said. “We just have to stop it.” Commissioners reached a
consensus to move forward with the appeal. If the Bunnell City Commission upholds the PZA decision, county officials said the next step could be Florida’s Chapter 164 governmental dispute resolution process, which provides an opportunity for the two governments to negotiate before litigation. Project Butterfly is proposed on approximately 610 acres at 518 County Road 45 west of Bunnell. The PZA’s approval of the special exception does not authorize construction of the landfill. The project would still require additional permitting and approvals.
Chief Dave Brannon raised security concerns. Brannon said the PZA meeting became contentious and emotional and that, at the end of the meeting, a man sitting in the front row attempted to rush toward the dais. “I had to physically get in the way and stop him from doing that,” Brannon said. Brannon asked commissioners to consider placing a physical barrier, such as retractable stanchions, near the dais to make clear that members of the public are not
permitted to approach it. He said residents have a constitutional right to address their government but that the city also has an obligation to protect commissioners, board members and staff. “What I can’t do is let folks get physically violent with our commissioners, board members or other staff that are here because they don’t like the issues,” Brannon said. Robinson told Brannon the commission would take the request under advisement.
NEXT STEP
in scholarships, sponsored a high school boys and girls basketball tournament at Matanzas High School and recognized and honored law enforcement and firefighters. The club also supported the Flagler County Education Foundation and the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center. It contributed to Boggy
Creek Camp, PAL, Carver Center, STUFF Bus, summer camps, Washington Oaks State Park, Whispering Meadows Ranch, Friends of the Library, Safe Haven Baby Box, Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches and the Family Life Center. The club donated $1,400 to the Kiwanis International Chil-
dren’s Fund and $229,000 was budgeted to benefit 49 different programs and community grants. Flagler Palm Coast Kiwanis ranks in the top 4% of clubs internationally in amount of money provided to its community.
Flagler County commissioners agreed Sept. 14 to appeal Bunnell’s approval of a special exception for the proposed Project Butterfly landfill. The appeal will send the issue to the Bunnell City Commission after the city’s Planning, Zoning and Appeals Board voted 3-1 on Sept. 1 to approve the special exception for the proposed Class 1 landfill. County officials said the appeal is necessary to address concerns involving the county and Bunnell compre-
Earlier on Sept. 14, the Flagler County Commission reached a consensus to appeal the PZA’s approval of the special exception. The appeal will send the matter to the Bunnell City Commission for review. County commissioners cited concerns about compatibility, comprehensive plan issues and the limited amount of time the county had to review the proposal before the Sept. 1 hearing.
NOTICE OF PROPOSED TAX INCREASE The East Flagler Mosquito Control District has tentatively adopted a measure to increase its property tax levy.
Flagler Palm Coast Kiwanis Club officers and board: Al Jennings, Mike McElroy, Foundation Treasurer Jerri Berry, Vice President Stephanie Ellis, Frank Consentino, Secretary Mary O’Gara, Tony Andrade, President Ed Pruitt and Maria Barbosa. Courtesy photo
All concerned citizens are invited to attend a public hearing on the tax increase to be held on: SEPTEMBER 21, 2026 5:01 PM at DISTRICT OFFICE, 210 FIN WAY, PALM COAST, FL A FINAL DECISION on the proposed tax increase and the budget will be made at this hearing.
7763-359474 Sep. 17, 2026
7763-359473 Sep. 17, 2026
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
Shape of Water restaurant proposal falls short over parking concerns Flagler County’s planning board voted 5-0 against, but owner Brent Bruns could revise the proposal. RICH CARROLL MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER
The Flagler County Planning and Development Board unanimously denied a special exception for the longplanned Shape of Water restaurant in the Hammock on Sept. 8, with parking and the viability of the site plan at the center of the board’s concerns. The denial was without prejudice, meaning owner Brent Bruns can return with a new application and revised plan. Immediately afterward, the board unanimously approved a portion of a related variance request that will allow two existing structures on the property to remain within required setbacks. The restaurant is planned for a 0.58-acre property at 5047 N. Ocean Shore Blvd. The project, owned by Hammock Enterprises LLC, was the subject of two separate requests before the board: a special exception allowing the restaurant and variances involving setbacks, a landscape buffer and outdoor seating. Bruns has been working on the elaborate, themed restaurant for years. The Observer reported in 2024 that Shape of Water was being designed as an intimate dining experience featuring waterfalls, lazy rivers, sculpted rocks
The Shape of Water restaurant in The Hammock is owned by Brent Bruns. File photo
and trees, a grotto and other handcrafted features. Bruns said at the time that French cuisine would be at the center of the menu. County staff told the board that the property was originally granted a special exception for restaurant use in 2018. The approval however, was tied specifically to Hammock Enterprises LLC. When the property was transferred to Bruns in 2019, the special exception expired. County staff did not discover the issue until learning that special events were being advertised at the property. Bruns transferred the property back to Hammock Enterprises in April, but the original special exception remained expired, requiring him to apply for a new one. The new proposal would convert a home built in 1959 into a commercial kitchen while preserving a cottage dating to 1940. The property also includes cave structures,
Brent Bruns said he has spent eight years building the restaurant and estimated that he has put about 21,000 hours of his own labor into the project.
waterfalls, faux trees, a lagoon with bridges, elevated structures and an outdoor gastropub. Parking became the central issue during the nearly twohour discussion. Staff said the plan provides 10 parking spaces, limiting the restaurant to 350 square feet of seating area under county parking requirements. Staff proposed restricting the restaurant to three four-top tables, five two-top tables and three bar stools. Bruns told the board the restaurant would operate by reservation and would focus on small parties. “This is sweetheart dining. This is twos and fours, reservation only,” Bruns said. He said the restaurant would schedule three reservation periods each evening and described the project as a high-end French restaurant. He also said he eventually hopes to acquire additional property for parking. Bruns said he has spent eight years building the restaurant and estimated that he has put about 21,000 hours of his own labor into the project.
He said the current permitting issue stemmed from the way the original special exception was approved. Several nearby residents opposed the restaurant during the public hearing, raising concerns about parking, traffic, noise and the potential effect on the surrounding neighborhood. One resident whose family owns property in the adjoining neighborhood said she feared customers would end up parking along roads, grass or sidewalks when the restaurant’s spaces were full. “We see a lot of problems that can occur from this restaurant going in,” she said. She also raised concerns about emergency access, lighting and music from the property. Another speaker, representing Scenic A1A Pride, said the limited parking could create a traffic hazard along A1A. He also questioned how delivery trucks could be accommodated at the property. “This is a huge traffic safety problem in a 50 mile per hour zone on a curve,” he said. He argued that insufficient onsite parking could push vehi-
cles onto the Scenic Byway. A resident who lives directly behind the proposed restaurant also raised concerns about overflow parking reaching the neighborhood and amplified music from events at the property. “There’s no parking there. So the overflow is coming over to us and we’re dealing with it,” he said. He told the board he had heard amplified music during events at the property. Another speaker questioned whether a reservation system would prevent parking problems. “Talk about a reservation system all you want, but any business person knows that, you know, it’s hard to say no to like, walk-in customers,” he
said. He also raised concerns about customers potentially parking across A1A and crossing the road on foot. Bruns disputed concerns that restaurant customers would park in the neighborhood behind the property. He also told the board that boats, a tent and other items currently on the property would have to be removed to make room for the planned parking area. The board ultimately voted unanimously to deny the special exception because of concerns about parking and whether the site could realistically support the restaurant. The denial does not prevent Bruns from coming back with a revised plan. The denial passed 5-0.
Board approves limited setback variances
Staff said the cottage predates the county’s Land Development Code. The gastropub structure did not, but staff said the applicant appeared to have acted in good faith based on his understanding that structures could be placed in line with the existing cottage. The board approved the setback variances, allowing the two existing structures to stay where they are. The approval only applies to those structures and does not allow new structures to be built within the setback area. The variance passed unanimously, 5-0. The decision leaves Shape of Water without the special exception needed to operate as a restaurant, but Bruns can return to the county with another proposal addressing the concerns that led to the denial.
Because the Shape of Water restaurant’s special exception had just been denied, county staff said two portions of the original variance request — involving the 40-foot front landscape buffer and the outdoor seating requirement — no longer applied. Those issues could return if Bruns submits another special exception application for the restaurant. That left two setback requests. One involved the outdoor gastropub structure, which staff said was built without a permit and required a 7-foot variance from the minimum 10-foot south-side setback. The other involved the cottage dating to 1940, which required a 22-foot variance from the minimum 25-foot rear setback.
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Daytona Beach cancer survivor helps others through rediscovery of taste ADVENTHEALTH COMMUNICATIONS
Phillip Sceiczina always loved the parts of life that brought people together around food. So, when he was diagnosed with head and neck cancer years after surviving prostate cancer, he worried about more than getting through treatment. He worried cancer could change the way food tasted and take away some of the joy he had always found in food. While traveling in Italy in 2024, Sceiczina, a 65-yearold Daytona Beach resident, ate Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a traditional Florentine steak, and began noticing discomfort when swallowing bread. The next morning, he awoke with a sore neck and discovered a lump in his throat. After returning home, imaging and a biopsy at AdventHealth Daytona Beach showed oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, a form of head and neck cancer. Having survived prostate cancer years earlier gave Sceiczina confidence that he could face cancer again. But his first thought was not about himself. “What went through my mind was, ‘How am I going to tell my wife, Stephanie?’” he said. “I knew that she would get very emotional, so I just swallowed my emotions and we both said, ‘Let’s fight this.’” He underwent two surgeries at AdventHealth Altamonte Springs in August 2024. The procedures removed part of the back of his tongue, part of his tonsil and a tumor wrapped around his carotid artery. After an extensive recovery that included a feeding tube,
Phillip Sceiczina and his wife, Stephanie Sceiczina. Courtesy photo
he returned to AdventHealth Daytona Beach in October 2024 for radiation treatment. Radiation Oncologist Shiv Desai, MD, created a personalized treatment plan for Sceiczina that used lower doses and targeted a smaller area to treat his cancer while helping limit side effects. But his recovery was not finished after his 30 radiation treatments. For Sceiczina, one of the most personal parts involved something that had been part of his life since childhood: food. Sceiczina had been cooking since fifth grade, took food classes through high school, and later worked his way from dishwasher to the line at an Italian restaurant. Pasta Sunday remains a family tradition his adult children now carry on themselves. For him, cooking was always more than a hobby. It was a way to care for family and friends. Because his food initially had to be soft, he started with vanilla ice cream. He had not lost his sense of smell, so he began slowing down, paying closer attention to aromas. Gradually, flavors began to return. Sweetness came first, followed by salt.
“It was a true blessing when those first flavors began returning,” he said. His taste has since returned, although he still experiences some dry mouth and occasional swallowing difficulty. The experience also changed the way he approaches food. “I smell everything because I want the memories,” he said. “I think people don’t take the time to really smell their food. They are missing the opportunity to create memories.” Sceiczina’s journey reached a much larger audience during the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at the Daytona International Speedway, where he was recognized as a 2026 Cancer Hero and his name appeared on the No. 43 car driven by Erik Jones. The recognition was part of the NASCAR Foundation’s Honor a Cancer Hero Online Auction Program Presented by AdventHealth. AdventHealth is the Official Healthcare Provider of Daytona International Speedway and a partner of NASCAR Cup Series team, LEGACY MOTOR CLUB. “It’s hard to put into words what it meant to have my name on Erik Jones’ car,” Sceiczina said. “It was a very moving and emotional experience that brought me to tears. I wish there was room for all the survivors on the car. The real heroes are the doctors, nurses and all the staff at AdventHealth. I was just a patient.” Dr. Desai sees it differently. “He went through something that changed his life, worked hard to recover and then chose to help others facing the same thing,” said Dr. Desai. “That is what makes Phillip a hero. He is not looking for recognition. He wants to make the road a little easier for the next person.”
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
How to deliver a baby: AdventHealth adds simulator to train Flagler staff A demonstration in August introduced the community to ‘Eve.’ BRIAN MCMILLAN PUBLISHER
It was a serious demonstration of AdventHealth’s new Maternal OB Simulator Manikin, but the audience couldn’t help but giggle a few times. Purchased by the AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation for $110,000, the pregnant manikin gave a “live” birth on Aug. 17, at the hospital on State Road 100, in front of an audience of the hospital’s philanthropic 20/20 Society, after a buffet lunch. Ken Corliss, manager of simulation operations for AdventHealth’s East Florida
AdventHealth’s maternity simulator, Eve, was created by Gaumard, which has created medical simulation training equipment since World War II. Photos by Brian McMillan
Division, spoke soothingly to the manikin, named Victoria. “That’s it, push,” he said. “Ahhhhh!” Victoria’s pre-
recorded voice shouted, as she lay in a gown on a hospital bed. “There you go, baby’s head’s out,” Corliss said, wearing rubber gloves and standing at the stirrups, producing the baby, umbilical cord and all. “Is she OK?” Victoria asked. Corliss put the “doll” baby on Victoria’s chest. There wasn’t much of a reaction by Victoria, as she can’t blink or move her arms, but the audience cheered. The purchase of the simulator was no giggling matter. As Denyse Bales-Chubb, CEO for AdventHealth’s Flagler and St. Johns market, explained, there are only about 900 deliveries from Flagler County residents per year, which isn’t enough to support a labor and delivery unit here. But, emergency births do happen at the
Flagler County facilities, so local professionals need to be trained. After Corliss’ demonstration, Wally de Aquino, president of AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway, quipped: “I know Victoria’s not real, but that was super uncomfortable. Am I alone in that?” De Aquino explained that
that’s exactly why the training is needed: so the emergency staff members “don’t feel uncomfortable like I just did.” By popular vote of the attendees, Victoria was given a new name in her new home in Flagler County: Eve. Also at the event, AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation Director John Subers
AdventHealth nurses Rosa Coffey, Michele Diformato and Samantha Goodell.
Wally de Aquino, president of AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway.
thanked the staff, as well as volunteer Elaine Gonsalves. She gave him a hug, and Subers said, “She has been in our office helping for 17 years. … She has raised more money for our Pink Army and breast cancer than any one of us combined. She is just inspiring.”
YOUR TOWN
University Women of Flagler celebrates 20th anniversary The University Women of Flagler celebrated its 20th anniversary with a special event on Sept. 12 at Grand Haven Golf Club. Jane Mealy, UWF founder and past president, spoke at the celebration noting that over the past two decades, the volunteer organization has raised more than $300,000 in support of education and community organizations in Flagler County. The UWF has primarily focused on providing college scholarships for young women attending Flagler County high schools, Daytona State
The University of Women of Flagler celebrates its 20th anniversary and $300,000 in contributions to education and community organizations. Courtesy photo
College and Flagler Technical College. UWF has also provided financial support to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, Family Life Center, Flagler Cares, Habitat for Humanity and other local
brighter futures,” said Teresa Rizzo, executive director of the Flagler County Education Foundation. Membership in the University Women of Flagler is open to women who hold an
organizations. “Their generous support of Take Stock in Children and local scholarships has helped remove financial barriers, inspire students to pursue their educational goals, and create
associate degree or higher. The organization meets monthly and offers several interest groups that provide opportunities for members to connect, learn and serve the community.
Women interested in learning more about membership and UWF activities can visit uwflagler.org. Send Your Town stories to brent@observerlocalnews. com.
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
13A
MY VIEW MICHAEL DEAUGUSTINO
Teaching was never just a job for my parents MICHAEL DEAUGUSTINO GUEST WRITER
It has been about a month since school started, and for the first time in more than 45 years, my parents won’t be teaching. To truly appreciate what that means, you have to go back to 1981, when Flagler County had a population of around 12,000 people. Today, Flagler County has grown to [over 100,000] residents, and Flagler County Schools serves more than 13,000 students and employs more than 2,000 people. Through all of that growth, my amazing parents have helped elevate education and athletics throughout Flagler County for generations of
families. Both of them spent more than 40 years at the same school, dedicating their lives to their students, athletes, coworkers, and community. The average career span of a Florida educator is around 12 years, and approximately 40% of educators don’t make it past their first five years. My parents were different. This was never just a job for them — it was their passion. Their impact goes far beyond the students they taught and coached. They helped countless students achieve their goals, while also helping many of their coworkers grow, advance, and move into administrative positions along the way. They didn’t just build suc-
cessful students and athletes; they helped build the people around them. My mom finished with the highest test scores in the state multiple times. My dad won numerous team and individual state titles. Teacher of the Year as well. Those accomplishments are just a small part of the list. When I think about their careers, the awards and championships aren’t what stand out the most. It’s the thousands of lives they touched, the relationships they built, and the legacy they leave behind. I want to wish my incredible parents a very happy retirement and thank them for more than 40 years of endless effort, dedication,
We build community spirit and bridges of understanding through accurate and compelling journalism. We build the local economy by helping businesses strategically connect with our print and online readers.
you find something you truly love, stick with it. Give it everything you have, make a difference, and leave it better than you found it. Congratulations on an incredible career, Mom and Dad. You’ve earned this next chapter.
Michael DeAugustino with his parents, Renee and Steve. Courtesy photo
and love for Flagler County. I couldn’t be more proud of you both. Love you guys so much. Flagler County Public Schools will always have your fingerprints on it. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from watching my parents, it’s this: No matter what career path you choose in life, if
Publisher Brian McMillan, brian@observerlocalnews.com Managing Editor Jarleene Almenas, jarleene@observerlocalnews.com Associate Editor Brent Woronoff, brent@observerlocalnews.com Multimedia Producer Rich Carroll, rich@observerlocalnews.com Operation and Design Manager Hailey McMillan, hailey@observerlocalnews.com Marketing Consultants April Koehler, april@observerlocalnews.com; Travis Hurlbut, travis@observerlocalnews.com Office Coordinator Kay Raymond, Kay@observerlocalnews.com
Editor’s note: Michael DeAugustino is the youngest of Renee and Steve DeAugustino’s three children. Renee and Steve both retired this summer. Renee taught at Wadsworth Elementary School. Steve won three state championships as the wrestling coach at Flagler Palm Coast High School and also served as FPC’s athletic director. Michael originally posted this tribute to this parents on Facebook and gave permission to the Observer to publish it.
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Locally Owned / Publishers of the Palm Coast Observer McMillan Ink LLC 50 Leanni Way, Unit C3 Palm Coast, FL 32137
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Correction A headline in the Sept. 10 edition of the Observer had the wrong amount for the Flagler County Schools 2026-27 budget. The headline read, "Flagler School Board adopts budget of 3.5 million." The board adopted a budget of over $350 million. The first paragraph of the article had the correct budget amount of $353,097,566.
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MY VIEW
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She’s and benefits, assets fu policies/concerns, bene might think hurricane season riers or crates to contain all for every pet in my home. includes their temperashould make sure that you been with the Flagler Humane is almost over, but in truth, your pets in case you have to This includes bags for my ments and behaviors. It also are aware of where it is, just Society for nearly 25 years. the busiest weeks of hurutilize an emergency shelter? snakes and containers for includes their medical inforin case. Even if you have ricane season are usually the These are things that we my geckos. I have carriers end of September and early don’t think of on a day-tofor the birds and cats. I have 15 years of proudly insuring Puharic and Associates, Inc. is Associates, a rates fullhere service Need insurance rates today? Scan to Inc. getScan Puharic and is a fullhere service Need insurance today? to get October. 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LETTER
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
WHEN THINKING OF BUYING OR SELLING CALL
BARBARA UNGERMAN, PA REALTOR
954.651.4338
Local in Palm Coast
barbara@barbaraungermanpa.com www.barbaraungermanpa.com
Elite Housing Advisors, LLC Corporate Office: 27 SE 24th Avenue, Suite 5 Pompano Beach, FL 33062
Contract pending
SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
YOUR NEIGHBORS
BUILDING DREAMS Flagler Habitat for Humanity helped Devrie Paradowski when she needed it. Now she’s giving back.
decent place to live. We were helping people navigate finances, so we collaborated with Habitat.” ‘INCREDIBLE SUCCESS STORY’
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
When Devrie Paradowski became a Flagler Habitat for Humanity homeowner 18 years ago, she never imagined that she’d one day become the organization’s executive director. But there probably isn’t a better fit for the leadership role she’s held since April. And not just because she knows what it’s like to walk in an aspiring Habitat homeowner’s shoes. She has been helping people stave off poverty and homelessness and attain stability in their lives for nearly 20 years — even back when she was a single mother applying to be a Habitat homeowner. Paradowski was raised in Flagler County in the Daytona North community, also known as the Mondex. After serving in the Navy for seven years, she got a job in 2007 with the Northeast Florida Community Action Agency in Bunnell. That organization aims to combat poverty. But while working for the nonprofit, Paradowski was living below the poverty level herself, making $9 an hour. One of her co-workers suggested she apply to Habitat to begin a path to home ownership. Her office just happened to be right across Railroad Street from the Flagler Habitat for Humanity ReStore where the administration offices were at the time. So, she got to know and work with Habitat Executive Director Lindsay Elliott. “It worked out great to be across the street from them,” Paradowski said. “Our mission was to end poverty, and Habitat’s was obviously to ensure every person has a
YOUR TOWN Gallery500 to present final collection of local artist Beau Wild Gallery500 will celebrate the life, career and legacy of local artist Beau Wild with a special exhibition opening on Thursday, Sept. 17. “Beau Wild: From the Studio” features the final collection of artwork from Wild’s studio, according to a press release. Wild died in February after a battle with cancer, days after celebrating her 83rd birthday. The exhibition brings together many works featured in Wild’s 2023 solo retrospective at Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, along with never-before-available pieces from her private collection. A native Floridian, Wild
When Paradowski handed in her application to be a Habitat homeowner, Elliott was floored. “Linsay said, ‘If I’d known how little you were making, I’d have told you to apply a while ago,’” Paradowski recalled. Lindsay Elliott had been with Flagler Habitat for 23 years. She left in 2024 to become the executive director of the Family Renew Community in Volusia County. Elliott couldn’t me more proud of Paradowski’s rise from Flagler Habitat for Humanity home owner to now its executive director. “She has become such an incredible success story,” Elliott said. “I think she completely illustrates what the purpose of Habitat is, an opportunity for not only home ownership, but that gives you and your family stability to then be able to explore other things in life.” For Paradowski, that included getting married, having two more children and going back to school and earning several degrees, including a master’s in public administration. The process to become a Habitat homeowner took Paradowski about two years, she said. The process includes putting in 250 hours of sweat equity — 150 before they can pick out a lot — learning about home ownership and making sure they can keep up with the payments on Habitat’s zerointerest loan. Paradowski and her daughter moved into their new home in 2009. She and her family lived in the home for 10 years. “We lived in the Mondex,” she said. “Even though that’s where I grew up … we started daydreaming about having city water and paved roads and being closer to work.” In 2016, she started working
Flagler Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Devrie Paradowski in her office at 5 Hargrove Grade in Palm Coast. Photo by Brent Woronoff
for the county and three years late, she became the administrator of Flagler County’s State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP). The program provides state funding to local governments to create partnerships that produce and preserve affordable homeownership and multifamily housing. “I fell in love with that program because its whole purpose is to expand and preserve the housing inventory,” Paradowski said. “It just seems to me that people need peace in order to achieve their dreams. And if you’re really struggling to pay rent, you can’t find a place that you can afford, regardless of what job you have, and then you can’t move forward.” It bothers Paradowski that people who are struggling to afford housing are often stereotyped. “Most of the people I’ve encountered are like every single one of us that can experience loss — loss of spouses, domestic violence,” Paradowski said. “They’re not some kind of people. They’re just people, and they need to be able to have some place to call home.” AN OPENING AT HABITAT
When Paradowski was in the Navy, she was a weather forecaster. She would look for patterns. And though she didn’t want to leave SHIP, she saw a pattern on the horizon. “SHIP funds have always been a little volatile,” she said. She said she contacted the Property Appraiser’s Office to get a read on the budget cuts the county’s SHIP program could expect if Amendment 3 passes in November. “I was thinking about the
future,” she said. “And I went home on a lunch break, and I just happened to see that this position opened up at Habitat. I thought about some of the staff that I worked with and how they were wanting to move forward. And I thought that they had the ability to do that.” Paradowski replaced Maureen Compton as Flagler Habitat’s executive director. Compton retired. She had replaced Elliott, knowing she would only be in the position for a couple of years. One of Paradowski’s first duties was to hire a community outreach coordinator. She promoted interim coordinator Peter Ortiz. “I love working with Devrie,” Ortiz said. “She’s a great leader. I love how she involves the rest of the team. We keep each other aware of every aspect of the job, what we’re all doing.” Elliott said Paradowski brings something to the position that nobody else could. “She’s lived it. She’s done it,” Elliott said. “So when she sits with families and they’re struggling, or they don’t think they can do it, or what it really means and what it can do for you. Nobody can share that better than Devrie, because she’s been through it.” Paradowski had some unease when she took the position. She knew SHIP inside and out, she said. This position would be a new challenge. “It’s been more challenging than I think I expected, even though I’d like to say I’m a good forecaster,” she said. Since Flagler Habitat for Humanity incorporated in 1992, it has built 137 homes for families. They are working on
their 138th and 139th now. So many people are involved in each build. Volunteers, people who discount supplies, construction manager John Knox, and of course the homeowners themselves. “What we are doing is not something that’s given to these homeowners,” Pardowski said. “It’s not something that’s a benefit to them. It just one of the opportunities they’re seeking to overcome immense odds. And I don’t know how else to explain this, but I am humbled sometimes with some of the people that I encounter, I’m not only humbled, but inspired by their resilience.” Habitat doesn’t want people to be homeless, Paradowski said, but it needs them to pay their mortgages. And a majority of the homeowners are very successful. They have to demonstrate that they have the ability to keep up with the mortgage payments and maintain their home, and that they’re willing to partner with Habitat to do the sweat equity. The homes are a minimum of 1,200 square feet with three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a two-car garage. The zero-interest mortgages are for $125,000. But Habitat for Humanity International won’t allow a local organization to undercut the market. So, they add in a silent mortgage. If the house has to be sold for $325,000. They call that gap of $200,000 the silent mortgage. If the homeowner sells, they have to repay Habitat the full amount. “In one way, it creates a buffer so that predatory lenders don’t target them to refinance and they end up with a highinterest loan,” Paradowski said. “We ensure that it’s an affordable mortgage payment based on their income, but it’s not a free house by any stretch of the imagination.” Even with an army of volunteers and donated goods, the past two homes that Flagler Habitat has built cost $185,000, including $60,000 for the parcels of land, Paradowski said. But the mortgages are kept affordable. It’s necessary so people can work toward their dreams, she said. “That’s something that really matters to me,” Paradowski said. “It mattered to me at the county. It mattered to me at Northeast Florida Community Action Agency, and even when I was in the Navy. And I’m still continuing that track.”
“She has become such an incredible success story. I think she completely illustrates what the purpose of Habitat is, an opportunity for not only home ownership, but that gives you and your family stability to then be able to explore other things in life.” LINDSEY ELLIOTT
returned to her childhood hometown of Daytona Beach in 1983 after spending 22 years in New England. Throughout her career, Wild exhibited in museums, galleries, competitions, and art festivals throughout Florida and nationally. “Beau was an inspiration to so many people, and the more I learned about her as an artist and as a person, the more my admiration grew,” said Amber O’Neal, Gallery500 director and curator. “What impressed me most was her ability to continually evolve. She wasn’t afraid to experiment, fail, try something completely different, and keep going. She found inspiration anywhere, a sign of a true artist in my opinion.”
If you go
The exhibition will be on display at Gallery500 at One Daytona, 1870 Victory Circle, Suite H810, through
Oct. 4. Gallery hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sundays from 12-6 p.m. Monday hours are by appointment. Beau Wild died in February. She had just celebrated her 83rd birthday. Courtesy photo
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
LOCAL EVENTS THURSDAY, SEPT. 17
ORMOND BEACH AREA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEETING When: 6:30-8:15 p.m. Where: 56 N. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach Details: Join the Ormond Beach Area Democratic Club for its September meeting. Activities for the Nov. 3 General Election, including early voting, will be planned. Likeminded guests welcome. Visit ormondbeachdems.org.
FRIDAY, SEPT. 18
WELLNESS PAINT PARTY When: 10:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 Where: The Casements, 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach Details: Florida native Gina Bickish, who studied with two original Highwaymen artists, will be leading this painting event. Students will paint a view of the famous “Loop.” Classes cost $45. Includes all supplies. Bring an apron or a smock, and a light lunch. Call 386-956-6891. FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY AT THE FARM When: 5-9 p.m. Where: Florida Agricultural Legacy Learning Center, 7900 Old Kings Road N., Palm Coast Details: Enjoy food trucks, local vendors, live music and a free kids zone. Visit floridaagmu seum.org. LEARN & EXPLORE: JOY OF STARGAZING When: 7:30 p.m. Where: Daytona Beach Regional Library, 105 Jackie Robinson Parkway, Daytona Beach Details: Adults can learn about stargazing with Dr. Jason Aufdenberg, of EmbryRiddle Aeronautical University. This event is cosponsored
by Volusia County Public Library and Friends of the Daytona Beach Regional Library. No registration required. ‘COMPANY’ When: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Sept. 18, 19, 25, 26, and Oct. 2 and 3; and 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, 27 and Oct. 4 Where: City Repertory Theatre, 160 Cypress Point Parkway, Suite B207, Palm Coast Details: See this multi-Tony winning musical, which tells the story of Bobby, a successful young man who has everything but a meaningful relationship. Tickets cost $30 for adults; $15 for students.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 19
19TH ANNUAL INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY CLEANUP When: 8 a.m. to noon Where: Palm Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE, Palm Coast Details: The cleanup begins at 8 a.m. at the Palm Coast Community Center. Following the cleanup, participants are invited to a community luncheon and awards ceremony at 11 a.m. To register, visit www.palm coastgov.com/wa terwaycleanup. INTERNATIONAL CLEAN-UP DAY When: 8:15-9:30 a.m. Where: Old Dixie Highway, north of the Vista Della Toscana subdivision, Ormond Beach Details: Join Dream Green Volusia for a cleanup effort. Bring a reusable water bottle and wear closed-toed shoes. Free donuts. RSVP required. Email dreamgreenvolusia@ gmail.com. HOUSING EMPOWERMENT WORKSHOP When: 9 a.m. to noon Where: Southern Recreation Center, 1290 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast Details: Learn more about property taxes, homestead
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
GOD’S FAMILY BIBLE CHURCH PANTRY FOOD DISTRIBUTION When: 10-11 a.m. Where: Parking lot across Gods Family Bible Church, 256 Old Brick Road, Bunnell Details: God’s Family Bible Church distributes food every first and third Saturday in this drive-thru event.
NATIONAL BACK TO CHURCH SUNDAY WEEKEND When: 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19; 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 20 Where: Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 201 University Blvd., Daytona Beach Details: Attend a service at Our Lady of Lourdes and discover the heart of the church at a reception and ministry fair in the community center after each mass.
ARTWAVE YOUTH WORKSHOP When: 2-3:30 p.m. Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach Details: Students ages 10-14 are invited to explore the mediums and practices of a select artist. Early sign up is encouraged. Costs $15 for museum members; $20 for non-members. Register at www.ormondartmuseum.org.
FOOD & WINE CLASSIC When: 5-9 p.m. Where: Hammock Beach Golf Resort and Spa, 200 Ocean Crest Drive, Palm Coast Details: Attend the fourth annual Food & Wine Classic and sample more than 90 wines from around the world while enjoying culinary pairings from the resort’s restaurants. There will also be live music. Costs $175 per person. Visit https://www.hammockbeach. com/play/food-wine-classic.
LECTURE: ENGRAVINGS OF THE TIMUCA When: 2-3:30 p.m. Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach Details: Presented at OMAM by Dr. Jerald T. Milanich, of the University of Florida, will present an illustrated lecture on the Timicua tribe. Free program. Register at www. ormondartmuseum.org/ classes-programs.
FOURTH ANNUAL TIKI TIME FUNDRAISER When: 6-9 p.m. Where: Nexus Center, 2199 Commerce Parkway, Bunnell. Details: Flagler Volunteer Services will host its fourth annual Tiki Time fundraiser, featuring dinner, music, dancing, a silent auction and 50/50 drawing. Guests are encouraged to wear their “loudest” shirts and hula skirts. Tickets cost $65 per person. Visit https://flagler volunteer.org/tiki-time-iv.
exemptions, portability, and navigating the official tax appeal process. Free program.
BUNCO When: 4-10 p.m. Where: Flagler Woman’s Club, 1524 S. Central Ave., Flagler Beach Details: The Flagler Woman’s Club invites you to come and enjoy an evening of Bunco and a football-themed buffet served at 6 p.m. Please bring a potato topping, side dish or dessert to share. All welcome. $10 donation at the door. Call Debbie at 312-607-8200 or Beth at 407-506-6585.
SUNDAY, SEPT. 20
THIRD ANNUAL WALK WITHOUT SILENCE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE FUNDRAISER When: 10 a.m. Where: Central Park at Town Center, 95 Central Ave., Palm Coast Details: Take part in this domestic violence awareness walk benefitting the Family Life Center. The event is petfriendly. Sponsorships avail-
able. Contact romeo32164@ gmail.com. TEMPLE BETH SHALOM YOM KIPPUR SERVICES When: 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20; 9:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21 Where: Temple Beth Shalom, 40 Wellington Drive, Palm Coast Details: A memorial candle lighting begins at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 20 followed by Kol Nidre at 6:30 p.m. Yom Kippur and Yizkor service starts at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 21 with the evening service at 6:30 p.m. Evening service is followed by a Break Fast meal. There is no fee and Temple membership is not required. RSVP to order candles and reserve a seat at www.TBSPalmCoast.org.
MONDAY, SEPT. 21
NARFE ASSOCIATION CHAPTER 2247 MEETING When: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Where: Houligan’s, 1643 U.S. 1, Ormond Beach Details: Join the National Active and Retired Federal Employees for a meeting. Free. Lunch optional. The chapter will host Mindy Nadeau, development manager of the Alzheimer’s Association — Central North Florida. After her presentation, the chapter will present a donation. Any NARFE member, active federal employee, annuitant, and/or spouse are welcome to attend. Email narfechapter2247@gmail.com.
THURSDAY, SEPT. 24
FLAGLER COUNTY ORCHID SOCIETY MEETING When: 6:30-9 p.m. Where: Trinity Presbyterian Church, 156 Florida Park Drive N., Palm Coast Details: This is the Orchid Society’s monthly meeting. This month is the society’s yearly auction of orchid plants from Hawaii. View plants at 6:30 p.m., meeting starts at 7 p.m. Refreshments available. All welcome. Checks or cash.
YOUR TOWN A1A Super Scenic 150 Mile Garage Sale returns on Nov. 21 Get ready to shop, sell and explore Florida’s scenic East Coast as the Super Scenic 150 Mile Garage Sale returns for its 18th year on Saturday, Nov. 21, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Organized by the Friends of A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway, Inc., the annual event brings thousands of bargain hunters to participating homes, businesses and community locations stretching 150 miles on State Road A1A from Fernandina Beach south to Ponce Inlet through Nassau, Duval, St. Johns, Flagler and Volusia counties. The route includes four Florida Scenic Highways — the A1A Ocean Islands Trail, A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway, Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail and Halifax Heritage Scenic Byway. Along the way, shoppers can hunt for treasures while discovering local shops, restaurants and coastal communities. In a press release, organizers at the Friends of A1A said, “The Super Scenic 150 Mile Garage Sale is one part treasure hunt, one part road trip and a whole lot of fun. You never know what you’ll find around the next corner, and that’s part of the adventure. It’s a great day to explore our coastal communities, support local businesses and see just how much fun 150 miles of garage sales can be.” Sellers, businesses and community organizations are encouraged to register early to participate in the sale. More information, ScenicA1A. org.
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
YOUR SCHOOLS Lifeguard honored for help in saving boy’s life
CLASS NOTES
Dempsey Manhart is a junior at Matanzas High School and a lifeguard for Volusia County beaches.
Flagler Ed Foundation distributes $75K in Hunter Grants
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
July 30 was a pretty calm day, said Dempsey Manhart, 16, who was finishing up his first summer as a Volusia County ocean lifeguard in Daytona Beach. “I was getting ready to go on lunch,” said Manhart, a junior at Matanzas High School. “That’s when these people started screaming for help.” From his lifeguard tower near the Silver Beach Avenue ramp, he saw a man walking out of the ocean, carrying a 5-year-old boy who was unconscious and not breathing. “I went 10-6, which means you’re going out on a rescue,” Manhart said. “I went and grabbed the boy and brought him in.” At that point, lifeguard Mackenzie Malone, 19, who was Manhart’s lunch relief, had heard Manhart’s radio call and rushed to the area. Together they administered CPR and were able to revive the boy. “About the third or fourth round, that’s when he actually came back,” Manhart said. “It was an awesome experience to see, that it actually does work and we saved this kid’s life.” The full-time lifeguards and EMTs arrived on the scene quickly, Manhart said. “Right before they got there
Dempsey Manhart with his parents, Stan and Sabrina, at a Matanzas High School swim meet on Sept. 10 at the Palm Coast Aquatics Center. Photo by Brent Woronoff
we were able to successfully bring him back. And then the fire department and everyone was there,” Manhart said. “It was cool to see how fast they got there. I would say the coolest thing was seeing how fast our team can work together and how good we work as a team.” Manhart said they have been informed that the boy has made a full recovery and is doing well. Manhart received a certificate of recognition “for his outstanding lifesaving actions,” from the Flagler County School Board on Aug. 25. “Your quick response, courage, and dedication exemplify the highest standards of service and commitment to the safety and wellbeing of others. Your selfless actions reflect great character, compassion, and leadership,
bringing honor to yourself, your family, and the Matanzas High School community,” the certificate read. He was recognized along with some of his teammates on the Matanzas swim team who are also certified ocean lifeguards in Flagler Beach or Volusia County. “These young people are students, yet they serve in such a huge capacity, and so we appreciate them and the sacrifices they make to serve our community,” Flagler Schools Superintendent LaShakia Moore said. Dempsey’s mother, Matanzas High School teacher and coach Sabrina Manhart, stood next to him in the group photo. Dempsey said he has been training to be a lifeguard for as long as he can remember. His father, Stan Manhart, is a Volusia County Sheriff’s deputy based in New Smyrna
Beach in the coastal district. Stan is triple certified as a lifeguard, EMT and a deputy. “Dempsey’s been around it his entire life,” Stan said. Since Dempsey and his older sister, McKenzie, could swim, Stan said, he’s taught them about rip currents and what they should do when they get stuck in one. Dempsey Manhart and Mackenzie Malone will also be receiving an award from the The American Red Cross. And on Sept. 22, the Volusia County Council will honor the two with a Dempsey Manhart and Mackenzie Malone Day. “It’s a proud moment,” Stan said. “He got to put everything he’s learned over the years to use, and he had a successful outcome. Usually you get a different outcome, but this one was a great outcome.”
The Flagler County Education Foundation surprised educators across the district on Sept. 4 by delivering $75,000 in Hunter Grants to support Flagler Schools’ Classroom to Careers programs. The grants are made possible by the Hunter Foundation. Unlike general classroom enrichment grants, the Hunter Grants are targeted to support career technical education, industryaligned coursework and practical skill-building. This year’s grants included specialized gear and equipment Flagler Palm Coast High School’s Fire Leadership Academy; advanced technology and equipment for STEM programs; and environmental science resources for school agricultural programs. “The Hunter Foundation’s continued investment in our students and educators is helping us create meaningful pathways from the classroom to future careers,” said Teresa Rizzo, the Ed Foundation’s executive director. Recipients of the grants:
Indian Trails Middle School: Pathways to Independence: Schmachtenberger. Design, Model, Solve: Van Der Werf. Supplies for Success: Morden. Matanzas High School Digital Media/Multimedia Foundations: Johnston Buddy Taylor Middle School Integrated Technology Studies: Crews Flagler Palm Coast High
Catering On and Off Site: Williams FPC Esports Program: Mastropierro FPC Fire Leadership Program: Cope Imagine Town Center Ohana Oasis Discovery Garden: Charles Old Kings Elementary Future Ready NESTers: Borbely All Kids Bike: ButlerMcPherson Bunnell Elementary Garden to Table: Zanella Belle Terre Elementary Little Learners, Big Futures: Masiello
DSC nursing student receives scholarship Daytona State College nursing program student Tyra Peters has been named a 2026 Chime Workforce Scholar, joining 200 students nationwide recognized for their academic achievement and pursuit of career-focused education. The Chime Workforce Scholarship, funded by the Chime Scholars Foundation and administered by the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation, provides each scholar with $1,000 to help cover educational expenses while completing an associate degree that prepares them for a high-demand field. Peters, a single mother, was laid off from her job in advertising during COVID and decided to explore a career as a nursing assistant. She enrolled in DSC’s nursing program in 2025. She is on schedule to graduate in 2027 and is working full time at AdventHealth. “As soon as I met the residents at the facility I was working at, I knew I was meant to be in healthcare providing care to patients and support to their families,” Peters said.
DRIVE FOR A DIFFERENCE
Constellation FURYK & FRIENDS presented by Circle K is excited to welcome fans to Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa, October 9-11, 2026, in Palm Coast, Florida. This PGA TOUR Champions event combines world-class golf with music, food, and entertainment, all in support of local charities. In an effort to raise more money for our community, Constellation FURYK & FRIENDS presented by Circle K has teamed up with Flagler County Education Foundation to donate Saturday and Sunday general admission ticket proceeds to support the program’s mission of generating financial support and awareness to enhance educational programs that benefit students, families, and teachers in Flagler Schools. 100% of your Saturday and Sunday general admission ticket proceeds for Constellation FURYK & FRIENDS presented by Circle K will go directly to Flagler County Education Foundation. Scan the QR code below to purchase your tickets and support Constellation FURYK & FRIENDS presented by Circle K and Flagler County Education Foundation!
LINK: https://am.ticketmaster.com/pgafuryk/buy/bu ytickets?promocode=RURVQ0FUSU9O PROMO CODE: EDUCATION
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
FOCUS ON FAITH Tomoka Christian opens new thrift store, food pantry Tomoka Christian Church cut the ribbon on its new Tomoka Care Facility on Monday, Sept. 14, celebrating the completion of the $6 million project that the church hopes will allow it to better serve the community. Located within the church’s Ormond Beach campus at 1440 Hand Ave., the Tomoka Care Facility is a two-story building spanning 20,000 square feet. It houses the new Tomoka Thrift store, which opened its doors on Aug. 31, as well as the church’s food pantry. It also includes some church administrative space on the second floor. Tomoka Christian Church
Tomoka Christian Church holds a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the its new Tomoka Care Facility on Monday, Sept. 14. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
lead pastor Joe Putting said they have been “blessed” in so many ways. “It’s not just the buildings,” he said. “It’s the church. It’s the souls that have been saved. It’s the worship that goes on. The people that get fed.” Tomoka Christian Church
broke ground on its Tomoka Care Facility in March 2025. The project was completed several months ahead of schedule and $100,000 under budget, Putting said. It was funded by church members’ donations. The church’s original food pantry spanned 900 square
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Saturday, and it is closed on Sundays. Donations are accepted daily, except from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Sundays. The food pantry is open from 10:30-11:30 a.m. on Monday, Thursday and Saturday, as well as 5-6 p.m. on Wednesday. It is closed Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. — JARLEENE ALMENAS
B-CU football team and choir visit Palm Coast United Methodist Church Palm Coast United Methodist Church hosted the BethuneCookman University football players and choir during its service on Sunday, Aug. 30, as the church celebrated its 15th annual Football Sunday Worship. There are typically three Football Sunday Worship events that take place yearly at Palm Coast United Methodist: the Sunday before high school students return to school, the Sunday before B-CU’s first game of the season and one for Super Bowl Sunday. Senior Pastor Kevin James says that his church has welcomed high school football players from FPC and Matanzaz High School, as well as college players from B-CU since the conception of its Football Sunday Worship. “The Bible even talks about sports, because the apostle, Paul, if you look at his passages, you could assume he definitely enjoyed sports,” James said. “He talked about running the race; he even talked about the wrestling arena. That we wrestle not in flesh and blood, but in principalities, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”
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feet and served about 400 families a month. The church now anticipates that number to double. “We didn’t build this as a monument,” he said as he offered a prayer. “We built it for the same reason we built the other building — to be more useful to the kingdom of God, to minister to more people, to care about the needs of people, to help more people find Jesus in the process of that.” Ormond Beach Mayor-elect Lori Tolland attended the ribbon cutting. She congratulated the church on its expansion. “Today’s ribbon cutting represents so much more than a larger building,” she said. “It represents more people being served, more families being helped, and more lives being touched. By doubling the size of this wonderful ministry, Tomoka Christian Church will now be able to serve hundreds of additional families each month.” Tolland also commended the church for its mission work, which is funded through proceeds from the thrift store. Currently, the church has mission teams in Oklahoma and Philadelphia. On Nov. 1, a team will leave for Egypt. “This is truly a beautiful example of your faith in action, having neighbors caring for those in need and extending God’s generosity far beyond our backyard,” Tolland said. Since the building was constructed, the church relocated its Tomoka Thrift store, formerly A Second Blessing, from an off-site storefront on South Nova Road. The thrift store sells clothing, house items, books, decor and more. Tomoka Thrift is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to
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Bethune-Cookman University football player Cole Hash read a scripture at Palm Coast United Methodist during the service held on Sunday, Aug. 30. Courtesy photos
Pastor James encourages church members to come to the football Sunday events wearing their favorite team jersey, which he said unites church members as they can bond over a shared team admiration. James said he felt blessed to have the B-CU Concert Chorale during the Aug. 30 service. “They sing what the audience, as well as the young, contemporary audience enjoy hearing,” James said. “All people who love music and different genres of music can definitely receive the flavor of Bethune Cookman University Concert Chorale.” The football players joined in fellowship, and B-CU head football coach Raymond Woodie Jr. took to the podium. “He (Coach Raymond Woodie Jr.) does a greeting and thanking us for welcoming the team and also for coming out during the season, and he encourages his players to continue to be student athletes and continue to, in his words, ‘keep God first,’” James said. Woodie Jr. has been B-CU’s head football coach since 2023. He played football at B-CU prior to playing professionally for the BC Lions, a Canadian football team. During his speech at Palm Coast United Methodist, he shared the importance of growing with one another as a team. “You’ve been through things and you overcome diversity situations, and everything else will kind of work itself out,” Woodie Jr. said. “You can’t worry about the uncontrollable things, but you have to have faith that it’s going to get better and believe that.” Going through hardships in life is not always a bad thing, Woodie Jr. said. It’s a way to teach us how to adapt and be better in the future. “I tell the guys all the time to not hang on one thing, then you can’t get to that next step, so live everyday the best you can,” Woodie Jr. said. “And if you fall, you have to get back up and press even harder to turn the outcome into a better outcome. — ABBIE PACE
B-CU head coach Raymond Woodie Jr.
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
5B
REAL ESTATE PALM COAST
ORMOND BEACH
Hammocks Dunes condo sells for $2.7M A
condo at 200 Ocean Crest Drive, Unit 1112, in Hammock Beach, was the top real estate transaction for Aug. 29 to Sept. 4 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The condo sold on Sep. 2, for $2.7 million. Built in 2003, the condo is a 4/4.5 and has 3,764 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $2,350,000. The house was listed by Violet Rosenblit, of Charles Rutenberg Realty Orlando. PALM COAST
ALEXIS MILLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Condos A condo at 4 Sherbury Court, Unit 4, sold on Sep. 4, for $153,500. Built in 1986, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,098 square feet. It sold in 2001 for $64,900.
A condo at 200 Riverfront Drive, Unit A301, sold on Aug. 31, for $516,000. Built in 2006, the condo is a 3/3 and has 2,167 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $375,500. A condo at 80 Surfview Drive, Unit 811, sold on Aug. 31, for $553,000. Built in 2003, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,398 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $575,000. A condo at 104 Surfview Drive, Unit 1406, sold on Aug. 31, for $410,000. Built in 1992, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,158 square feet. It sold in 1998 for $160,000.
Grand Haven A house at 21 Eastlake Drive sold on Sep. 4, for $775,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool, a hot tub and 2,670 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $400,000. Hammock Dunes A house at 64 Island Estates Parkway sold on Sep. 4, for $1,556,831. Built in 1998, the house is a 3/2 and has 2 half bathrooms, a pool, a hot tub, a boat house, a dock, a fireplace, an outdoor kitchen and 3,102 square feet. It sold in 2000 for $630,000.
A house at 162 Island Estates Parkway sold on Aug. 31, for $2,600,000. Built in 2006, the house is a 5/4 and has 2 half bathrooms, a pool, a hot tub, a fireplace, a dock, a boat house
R E A L E S TAT E G R O U P
and 5,823 square feet. It sold in 2024 for $2,540,000. Palm Harbor A house at 20 Cedarview Court sold on Sep. 4, for $750,000. Built in 2000, the house is a 4/2.5 and has a dock, a boat house and 2,383 square feet.
A house at 11 Cottonton Court sold on Sep. 4, for $1,010,000. Built in 2013, the house is a 4/2.5 and has a pool, a dock, a boat house and 2,907 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $930,000. A house at 17 Cheyenne Court sold on Sep. 4, for $765,000. Built in 1995, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, two boat docks, a boat lift, a boat house and 2,023 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $430,000. A house at 6 Cherry Court sold on Sep. 2, for $615,000. Built in 1983, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a pool, a dock, a fireplace and 2,388 square feet. It sold in 2025 for $685,000. A house at 9 Collingville Court sold on Sep. 1, for $700,000. Built in 1986, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a dock, a boat house and 2,160 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $369,000. Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report.
Ormond house near the beach tops sales list A house in Obyrne at 3 Ocean Dunes Drive as the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea for the week of Aug. 22-28. The house sold on Aug. 26, for $800,000. Built in 1957, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,080 square feet. It last sold in 1990 for $90,000. The house was listed by Jennifer Withers and Kimberly Anderson Ellis, of EXP Realty LLC.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Condos The condo at 1275 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 205, sold on Aug. 27, for $358,000. Built in 1981, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,013 square feet. It last sold in 2025 for $385,000.
The condo at 1 John Anderson Drive, Unit 412, sold on Aug. 28, for $427,900. Built in 1996, the condo is a 2/2.5 and has 2,230 square feet. It last sold in 2002 for $242,500.
ORMOND BEACH
Archers Mill The house at 3009 Kingsman Trail sold on Aug. 26, for $440,000. Built in 2026, the house is a 5/4.5 and has 3,345 square feet. Daytona Shores The house at 792 N. Beach St. sold on Aug. 28, for $520,000. Built in 1974, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool and 1,867 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $483,900.
Royal Dunes The house at 167 Royal Dunes Blvd. sold on Aug. 27, for $635,000. Built in 1963, the house is a 4/2.5 and has a pool and 1,700 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $442,000.
The house at 131 Royal Dunes Blvd. sold on Aug. 28, for $699,900. Built in 1963, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a pool, a spa and 2,248 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $410,000. Silver Pines The house at 1759 Valencia Ave. sold on Aug. 26, for $235,000. Built in 1971, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,206 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $220,000. Sweetser The house at 250 Willow Place sold on Aug. 25, for $142,000. Built in 2006, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,559 square feet. It last sold in 2006 for $210,000.
The Trails The townhome at 300 Timberline Trail sold on Aug. 28, for $156,000. Built in 1977, the townhome is a 2/2 and has a fireplace and 1,348 square feet. It last sold in 2025 for $125,100. Village The house at 905 Willow Run sold on Aug. 24, for $395,000. Built in 1974, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,912 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $250,000. Windswept Estates The house at 17 Seafarers Drive sold on Aug. 26, for $579,900. Built in 1977, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,771 square feet. It last sold in 2010 for $150,000.
ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA Not in subdivision The house at 107 Lynnhurst Drive sold on Aug. 28, for $380,000. Built in 1956, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,408 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $345,000.
The house at 12 Ocean Shore Drive sold on Aug. 28, for $333,000. Built in 1954, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,256 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $215,000. Ocean Crest The house at 20 Ocean Crest Drive sold on Aug. 24, for $349,900. Built in 1970, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,118 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $180,000.
John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.
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6B
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
Ormond Beach Burger Week is off to a sizzling start, and it’s not over yet Twenty restaurants with 20 unique specialty burgers are vying for the coveted Burger Week trophy. ABE MILLS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
I spy burger socks, burger headbands, burger hats, burger earrings, burger purses, burger costumes, burger everything. It must be Burger Week in Ormond Beach! During Ormond Beach Burger Week, 20 restaurants with 20 unique specialty burgers vye for the coveted Burger Week trophy. Rachel and I decided to catch up with the Burger Week Committee, who has been stopping at two of the participating restaurants per day to try each burger featured in the competition, which started on Friday, Sept. 11 and runs through Sunday, Sept. 20. We found the Burger Week Committee at the Piraña Grille at 241 U.S. 1. They said that, so far, the Burger Week response has been beyond what they had imagined. “It’s all about the local businesses,” Burger Week cofounder Carly Krajewski said. “We love to support local businesses.” The committee reported that last year’s winner, Ormond Brewing Company, sold out of their Burger Week special after selling 450 of their Brisket Burger in less than two days. After stocking up on ingredients, the brewery is now ready for more Burger Week customers. The committee also reported that new restaurants and participants like Flips, Cue Note Billiards, Tango’s Ormond Beach, and others
Burger week Committee members take a bite. (Left to right) Carly Krajewski, Kristen Robbins, Billie Jo Kaler, and Skye Russell. Photos by Rachel Mills
have received visits from new customers that came in just to try their burger week offerings. “I started Burger Week because my hometown had burger week [in Georgia],” Krajewski said. “My sister would blog about it every Burger Week and I wanted to do it. And she said for years, ‘Why don’t you do it in Ormond? Ormond’s the coolest place to have a burger week.’ So, I did.” The first Burger Week was held in 2023, and is organized by members of Realty Pros Assured and Realty Pro Title. Krajewski is with Realty Pros. If you spot the committee, you may walk away with some swag.
“We typically give [hats] away at participating restaurants, and it’s a surprise to any of the people who are eating a burger,” Burger Week cofounder Billie Jo Kaler said. Many at Piraña Grille ordered the Burger Week special, “The Kamehamcha.” In my opinion, it was unique and did not disappoint. It’s a half-pound grass-fed burger topped with a grilled pineapple and a special sweet and spicy wing sauce with red onion and Sriracha Aioli. We also saw other people who were there just for Burger Week — like Bill and Chris Finnie, of Daytona Beach. Bill has created a calendar/ schedule so they can try every
burger over the 10-day period of Burger Week. “This year, his mission is to do all of them,” Chris said. Her husband Bill also included space in his printed schedule for them to write comments on their experience at each of the restaurants. “Oh, you don’t put pineapple on burgers or pizza,” Chris Finnie said, alluding to the alleged culinary faux pas. After trying Piraña Grille’s burger, she said, “Oh no, you do. It’s just delicious.” It looks like I will be creating my own spreadsheet/calendar next year. Want to participate? It’s not too late. Pick up an official 2026 Burger Week Passport
Pat O’Neill bites into a burger as part of Ormond Beach Burger Week
at one of the participating restaurants. You must try at least five burgers to vote. Each
burger costs $12 a la carte with $1 of each purchase going to Provision Packs, a nonprofit focused on supplementing meals for children and families in need in Volusia and Flagler County. Your passport also serves as your Burger Bingo card — form a horizontal, vertical or diagonal row with your stamps and you’ll be entered to win a $25 gift card from one of the participating Burger Week restaurants. If you try them all, you’ll automatically win a gift card. Visit https://ormondburgerweek.com/ for more info about participating restaurants and descriptions of the unique burgers for each restaurant.
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
7B
YOUR TOWN The Casements Camera Club’s 46th annual show winners
The Casements Camera Club has announced the winners for its 46th Annual Show. The show drew 44 entries by 33 photographers that were judged by Justin Nolan, lecturer of photography at the University of Central Florida, according to a news release. “Our members really stepped up with a great collection of creative images,” Casements President Ans van Beek said. “Please stop in the Casements while we have the show up in the gallery. You’ll see a wonderful variety of subject matter.” The photographs will remain on display at The Casements Gallery, 25 Riverside Drive, through Sept. 30. Gallery hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays.
First place: “Where Gravity Pauses” by Gloria Lotzer.
The winners were:
Third place: “Milky Way Palm” by Will Abair.
Best of Show: “Mr. Debonair” by Vicky Payne First place: “Where Gravity Pauses” by Gloria Lotzer Second place: “Sunflowers by Dawns Early Light” by Ian Hathaway Third place: “Milky Way Palm” by Will Abair Casements Award and Merit Award: “A Quiet Place” by Ans van Beek
Top: Best of Show: “Mr. Debonair” by Vicky Payne. Left: Second place: “Sunflowers by Dawns Early Light” by Ian Hathaway.
Casements Award and Merit Award: “A Quiet Place” by Ans van Beek. Courtesy photos
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True Affordability American Village Condos in Palm Coast Offer a New Path Forward for Seniors With overhead rising fast for seniors, a local developer challenges retirees to rethink their cost of living. Freedom is around the corner. PALM COAST, FL — One afternoon at a local grocery store, Palm Coast-based developer and builder Alex Ustilovsky had an encounter that changed the trajectory of his latest residential project. A woman in her 70s was bagging his groceries, and despite appearing short and frail, she politely insisted on helping him wheel his cart to his car. She was simply doing her job with pride, but her physical vulnerability struck a chord. The interaction left Mr. Ustilovsky with a lingering, unsettling question: Why was a woman of her age and physical condition working a demanding retail job? The answer, he realized, wasn’t likely a quest for a hobby, but a matter of sheer survival in a climate of skyrocketing housing costs and relentless inflation. He immediately thought of the countless seniors on fixed incomes who find themselves stuck in that exact financial vice. Driven by the encounter, Mr. Ustilovsky went home, grabbed a yellow pad of paper, and began breaking down the stark financial realities facing a typical Palm Coast retiree.
The Illusion of the “Paid-Off” Home
Mr. Ustilovsky focused his calculations on a specific, vulnerable demographic in the community: current local homeowners who live on Social Security benefits. In Palm Coast, the median monthly Social Security benefit sits under $1,900—a rigid budget that is increasingly out of step with relentless inflation. When basic costs consume nearly 60% of a senior’s monthly fixed income, maintaining a traditional home transforms from an asset into a financial crisis. It leaves less than $800 a month for food, healthcare, transportation, and emergencies. This is the hidden engine driving frail seniors back into the workforce.
No Relief in the Rental Market
For many seniors, the intuitive solution to escaping the crushing overhead of single-family homeownership is to liquidate their property and move into a rental. However, rent for a typical one-bedroom apartment across Palm Coast starts at $1,500. Handing over $1,500 to a landlord is an absolute trap, leaving virtually nothing behind for basic survival.
Space vs. Quality of Life
The core of the issue, Alex Ustilovsky notes, is a fundamental misalignment between what people actually need and use daily versus what they are forced to pay for in the current real estate landscape. Many seniors find themselves “house poor,” trapped by emotional attachment or a lack of options into maintaining square footage they no longer inhabit. The mathematical exercise on that yellow pad prompted Mr. Ustilovsky to pivot. While the initial phases of his 55+ housing development, American Village, already featured single-family homes under construction, he decided to completely redesign the next phase.
A New Blueprint at 34 Green Circle
The next chapter of American Village will introduce a low-rise condominium concept designed to deliver
true, market-rate affordability—entirely independent of government subsidies. Located at 34 Green Circle in the heart of Palm Coast, the upcoming condominium phase will consist of two modern, two-story buildings housing 16 units each, bringing a total of just 32 new homes to the community. Brand-new construction units in this highly anticipated phase are starting at an attainable $175,000—a special introductory pric. These one-bedroom, one-bathroom units are designed to accommodate individuals or couples looking to simplify. The properties feature an open-concept living area with durable flooring and modern countertops. To complete the Florida lifestyle, residents are located a few miles from the beach.
Rethinking Monthly Overhead
In stark contrast to the $1,500+ trap of local market rents, the condominium phase at American Village brings the total monthly cost of living to under $250. This is achieved through exceptionally low homeowner association (HOA) dues structured at under $150 per month. Crucially, this includes internet, landscaping, insurance, pool, and building maintenance. By bridging the gap between quality construction and sensible pricing, American Village aims to prove that private development can answer the call for attainable senior housing.
How to Secure Your Future Today Sales and inquiries for this exclusive phase are managed directly by Trademark Realty Group. To request floor plans, or reserve your unit, contact Steve Thomas, owner of Trademark Realty Group, at (386) 854-4256 or via email at AmericanVillageCondos@gmail.com. Prospective buyers can also explore at americanvillagecondos.com/
SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
SPORTS “I know I can beat people with my speed, so I feel like that’s my most dangerous factor. I don’t think people know really who I am, and once I step on the field, it’s just go time. It’s time to show them.”
TOP SPEED Jacobelli runs past First Coast in Flagler Palm Coast victory. BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
LOGAN JACOBELLI
Logan Jacobelli scored on an 88-yard touchdown catch and run in the fourth quarter. Photos by Keishia McLendon
Nei’cco Murphy (4) celebrates his pick-six.
Logan Jacobelli is the fastest 100-meter sprinter in Flagler Palm Coast’s track and field history. Many of his football opponents don’t know that. But they’re learning. Jacobelli outran the defense on two long touchdown receptions as FPC defeated Jacksonville First Coast 38-15 on Friday, Sept. 11, at Sal Campanella Stadium. The Bulldogs improved to 4-0 on the season. “He’s a little deceiving,” FPC football coach Patrick Turner said. “He won a state championship (in the 4x400 relay), but not everybody’s going to look that up and know how fast he is.” Jacobelli outran the secondary to catch a 39-yard touchdown pass from Reid Pritt with 9:27 left before halftime to give the Bulldogs a 21-7 lead. He later scored FPC’s final touchdown in the fourth quarter, taking a forward pitch from Pritt and running 88 yards past a host of stunned Buccaneer defenders to the end zone. “I know I can beat people with my speed, so I feel like that’s my most dangerous factor,” Jacobelli said. “I don’t think people know really who I am, and once I step on the field, it’s just go time. It’s time to show them.” Jacobelli now has 13 catches for 214 yards this season. The senior is not only the Bulldogs’ deep threat, he also filled in as a part-time quarterback in a 49-14 win against Jackonsville Parker on Sept. 4. And he filled in as a defensive back against First Coast. It was the first time he played defense since his sophomore season. “Logan Jacobelli has stepped into the role of a football player,” Turner said. “I’m extremely proud of him. He’s doing a great job on both sides.” FPC was banged up entering the game. Edge rusher Brian Veal and safety Shawn Smith missed the game with injuries. Nei’cco Murphy, who had a 16-yard pick-six on the game’s first play from scrimmage, was nursing a knee injury and did not play on offense, where he had been used as a change-ofpace quarterback. Linebacker Josiah Hathaway had his minutes limited but still finished with eight tackles, including one for a loss. “I think we had four or five starters that were either banged up or out completely, and we needed other people just to step up,” Turner said. “And that was our challenge all week long, that there can’t be a drop off. And I’m extremely proud of that.” Brian Gunter caught two passes and also had 1.5 sacks
Kevion Galery (17) and Logan Jacobelli (19) help with the tackle.
on defense. Jacobelli said that he’ll play wherever the Bulldogs need him. “I feel like playing DB is something I had to step up to do,” Jacobelli said. “If my team needs me there, my team needs me there. It’s not going to get you anywhere if you’re scared out there. I think this shows that there’s not a dropoff, because we work together. We got a few players out with
injuries, but they’re still on the sideline coaching people.” Running back Ehimen Ajede rushed for 131 yards on 20 carries and scored his ninth touchdown of the season on a 34-yard run early in the fourth quarter. Pritt, who missed the previous game under concussion protocol, passed for a season-high 184 yards and three touchdowns with an inter-
FPC’s Brian Gunter makes the catch.
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
9B
Pirates return home with new looks they hope will help produce a win Matanzas will host Menendez in its first official home game of the season. BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
When Matanzas hosts northern neighbor Menendez on Friday, Sept. 18, the Pirates may look quite a bit different from the last time they played at home. It has been five weeks since Matanzas played a home game. The Pirates beat Seabreeze 17-14 in a preseason kickoff classic on Aug. 14. Since then they’ve lost three games to teams with a combined 11-1 record and had their scheduled home opener on Sept. 4 postponed after persistent lightning delays. Weather permitting, they will now officially play their home opener against the Falcons. Let’s catch up with
what’s changed since they last played at the Ship. Junior Cole Hardy, their starting quarterback, has quit football to focus on grades and college, Matanzas coach Matt Forrest said. “He said he appreciates everything the program has done for him, but he just feels like it’s time turn the page in this chapter of his book, ” Forrest said. Freshman Devin Davis is the new starter. But he tweaked his knee in the Pirates’ 42-13 loss at Ocala Forest last week and will be evaluated this week. Junior Michael McDonough, who joined the team in the summer after transferring from Seabreeze, stepped in and completed all five of his pass attempts including a touchdown pass to sophomore Lukas De Freitas. “When his number was called, he was able to step up to the plate and did a good job of it,” Forrest said of McDonough.
De Freitas has earned a starting wide receiver spot. Freshman Christian Perkins will play more at slot receiver and as a pass catching tight end, Forrest said. Sophomore Mari Arneaud will get some more playing time as a receiver. And senior defensive lineman Zain Dailey has been moved to the offensive line due to injuries and emergencies, Forrest said. “His first start was at right guard (against Forest), and he did as good as he could with short notice,” Forrest said. “So we’re going to continue to work with him.” Forrest said the Pirates are still searching for the right combinations. “If it’s youth, it’s youth. If it’s older kids, it’s older kids,” he said. But I thought we played with a little bit different intensity (against Forest). I think the last two weeks, our guys have gained their confidence back. I’ve seen that in practice. And Friday night
I saw them play with some confidence. Now, did it go our way? No, but we were in that game for a long time.” The McCoy brothers each had big plays at Forest, which improved to 4-0. Junior Jayden McCoy returned a kickoff 97 yards for a touchdown. And senior Jez McCoy returned an interception 65 yards. Chase Johnson recovered a fumble. Matanzas, trailing 21-0 at the half, scored all of its points after halftime but did not get the ball on offense in the second half until about four minutes left in the game. The Pirates turned the ball over on consecutive kickoff returns and Jayden McCoy returned the Wildcats’ next kickoff for a touchdown. Forrest was pleased with the Pirates’ defense, but the offense and special teams gave the Wildcats short fields to work with. Davis and McDonough were sacked six times.
“It comes down to offensively just finding some rhythm,” Forrest said. “It was 8-0 after the first quarter, 14-0 with less than a minute left in the first half, and we have a turnover inside our own 15, an unfortunate fumble.” Menendez (1-2) comes into Friday’s game with memories of last year’s 14-0 loss to Matanzas. It was the Falcons’ first loss to the Pirates since Nov. 6, 2020 in the annual series, but six of the last seven meetings between the two teams have been decided by two or fewer touchdowns. “When us and Pedro (Menedez) play, it’s always competitive,” Forrest said. “The schools are separated by 12 miles (on I-95 exits). It’s almost as close to us as Flagler Palm Coast. So, it’s always competitive, always a fun game.” While a bus trip between the two schools is short, the Pirates are happy to finally play a game again at home.
FPC coach Patrick Turner during a timeout.
Reid Pritt (left) hands the ball off to Ehimen Ajede.
ception. In addition to the two touchdown passes to Jacobelli, Pritt fired an 18-yard touchdown pass to Trace Paffrath on the Bulldogs’ first offensive possession. “Reid’s really evolving,” Jacobelli said of the sophomore. “He’s really stepping up. He puts the ball in great places, where only the receivers can get it. He’s still learning, but I think he’s going be a really good quarterback.” Defensive lineman Jacob Harnish led the Bulldogs with nine tackles. Yamon Jordan and Mathias Parker joined Hathaway with eight tackles apiece.
Kicker Garrett Tucker, who drilled a school-record 52-yard field goal against Riverside on Aug. 28, kicked a 43-yard field goal against First Coast, and four of his kickoffs were boomed into the end zone for touchbacks. With the win the Bulldogs surpassed their 2025 win total. And they won their first District 1-6A game with four more district games remaining. They have a bye this week and then will play another district opponent on Sept. 24 at Tocoi Creek. “We’re one step closer to a district championship and the playoffs, and every game from
here on matters,” Turner said. First Coast fell to 0-4. Penalties hurt the Buccaneers, but they battled to the end, scoring with 2:36 left. That was the first time FPC has given up a second-half touchdown this season. First Coast quarterback David Hunter passed for 166 yards with two touchdowns. But FPC sacked Hunter four times for a loss of 44 yards. “I thought their entire team was good,” Turner said. “But the Bulldogs just showed up and played as a three-headed monster — offense, defense, special teams. Tonight, we got it done.”
THIS WEEK SEPT. 18: Menendez (1-2) at Matanzas (0-3) Watch the Observer’s livestream of the game at youtube.com/@PalmCoastObserver. Rich Carroll and Abe Mills call the game. The Falcons’ Jaden Roberts has rushed for 297 yards on just 21 carries and also has 12 receptions for 130 yards. He has scored three TDs.
After three straight games on the road, Matanzas will play their next four at the Ship. “I am excited to be home,” Forrest said. “I’m excited to not have to have a pregame meal, get on a bus, drive, get off, be in an unfamiliar setting. I am excited to just be home and have that familiar normal routine.”
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
Matanzas pulls out five-set volleyball victory against Seabreeze The Sandcrabs won the first and fourth sets. The Pirates prevailed in the final set, 15-11. BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Message to Matanzas’ volleyball opponents: Don’t get into a fifth set against the Pirates. The odds are not in your favor. Matanzas improved to 7-2 on the season and 4-0 in fiveset matches with a 3-2 victory over Seabreeze on Sept. 10 at the Pirates’ gym. Matanzas won the fifth set 15-11 to take the back-and forth match. “It was very exciting,” Seabreeze coach Janet Bruce said. “I think both teams did a
great job. I had no idea which way it was going to go. I can’t wait to get to play them again at our house.” Seabreeze won a tight first set 25-21. After Matanzas won the next two sets by 25-17 scores, the Sandcrabs held off the Pirates 25-23 to send the match to the deciding final set. “I figured it was going to go down to the wire,” Matanzas coach Sharell Arneaud said. “Seabreeze is a really good team. They’re well-coached. Their hitters take advantage of seams. They were controlled. We definitely had to work to be smarter in the game.” Bruce said the Seabreeze blockers were excited to go up against Pirates outside hitter Sanigh Arneaud, a Rollins College commitment. “She’s obviously a major
Analise Smith serves for the Pirates.
The Pirates’ Ari Allen (14) and Bristol Foley (15) block a hit by Kinley Lang. Photos by Brent Woronoff
hitter,” Bruce said. “She’s very powerful. Even when she was warming up, when she hit one straight down, the whole floor shook. So we’re like, ‘Wow, that’s crazy.’ But they were excited that they were blocking her and everything, so it kind of kept her at bay.” Sanigh Arneaud finished with a match-high 18 kills. Teammate Sofia Kubler had 16 kills and was in on seven blocks. “I was sick all day, so I drank a lot of orange juice and the sickness went away,” Kubler said. “This was like the best our court did all together. I just love playing with these girls.” Seabreeze middle blocker Carley Bandell led all players in the match with seven solo blocks and eight assisted blocks. Sophomore Baylee Brown had a career high 12 kills for the Sandcrabs. “My hitters and blockers did a great job,” Bruce said. “But they were getting us on tips. So, that’s something we
“I think both teams did a great job. I had no idea which way it was
Matanzas’ Sofia Kubler (21) goes up to block.
going to go.” JANET BRUCE, Seabreeze volleyball coach
got to work on. The defense, we’re just going to have to work on a lot of things and be ready for the next time.” For most of the match, the Sandcrabs handled the hits that got over the front row. Seabreeze had 76 digs with Lilli Litz leading the way with 23. Sharell Arneaud said after the close fourth set, the Pirates adjusted to the openings the Sandcrabs were giving them.
Aliya Lugo-Navas serves for Matanzas. The libero had 17 digs.
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Seabreeze’s Kinley Lang goes up for a block.
Seabreeze sophomore Baylee Brown tosses the ball up to serve.
“We were telling them to find other shots. Don’t just go for the strongest shot that you can make,” she said. Syrenity Arneaud and Aliya Lugo-Navas had 17 digs apiece for the Pirates. Matanzas setters Syrenity Arneaud (30) and Haley Stewart (20) combined for 50 assists. Breanna Dicks had 23 assists for Seabreeze.
Following the loss, the Sandcrabs (6-4) split two matches on Sept. 11 in the JJVA River City Classic in Jacksonville. Matanzas will try to avenge one of its two losses with a home match against St. Augustine on Tuesday, Sept. 15. Seabreeze and Matanzas will meet again on Sept. 28 at the Sandcrabs’ gym.
Sanigh Arneaud hits over the net. The Matanzas senior had a match-high 18 kills.
11B
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
SIDELINES
Mainland defensive backs Jae’Drian Edwards (20) and Kameren Giddens tackle Carol City wide receiver D’John Prince in the season opener on Aug. 21, at Daytona Stadium. Photo by Michele Meyers
Mainland receives forfeit win due to Carol City ineligible player Miami Carol City has been forced by the Florida High School Athletic Association to forfeit its victory over Mainland High School because of an ineligible player, according to a report by the USA Today Florida Network. Carol City, a nationally ranked program, defeated the Buccaneers 38-3 on Aug. 21 at Daytona Stadium. The game is now listed as a forfeit win on Mainland’s MaxPreps fooball page. The Bucs’ record is now 1-1 heading into their home game against Sanford Seminole on Sept. 18. Mainland lost at
Nease, 35-33, on Sept. 4. According to a USA Today article, the FHSAA’s sanction letter to the school said the player took part in the team’s football activities during the summer before enrolling in the school, had invalid paperwork and lived with a representative of school athletic interests. The player was identified as senior Jailen Hill, a University of Nebraska commit who played for California private school St. John Bosco last year. The player was ruled ineligible for a year by the FHSAA. Carol City was placed on administrative probation for a year and fined $3,700. The school will also undergo an FHSAA audit of its football program. Mainland coach Jerrime Bell told USA Today Florida
Matanzas won the boys 200-medley relay in a meet against Bartram Trail on Sept. 10 before the meet was stopped because of lightning. From left, Leo Peters, Fletcher Lasicki, Alex Demers and Nelson Rojas. Photos by Brent Woronoff
Network that he felt bad for the Carol City players. “It doesn’t change the whipping they put on us,” Bell said. “I feel bad for the kids involved. They’re 16- to 17-year-old kids making decisions they think are best.”
Two-year coin for Emmett Rosania
Emmett Rosania, a student at the Dragon Institute martial arts school in Bunnell, has earned his Two-Year Discipline Coin, recognizing that he has
practiced Wing Chun Kung Fu every day for two years straight. “That’s a pretty big deal for anyone, but especially for a kid,” said Dragon Institute Sifu Adam Williss. “At The Dragon Institute, one of the biggest things we try to teach is that martial arts isn’t just about learning punches, kicks or techniques. We use Wing Chun to teach discipline, perseverance, integrity and personal responsibility.” One way to reinforce that, Williss said, is through the Discipline Coin program. “The emphasis isn’t on who is the most talented or who learns the fastest. It’s about developing the habit of showing up and doing the work,” Williss said. “Emmett has really taken that to another level. Practicing every single day for two straight years is exactly the kind of discipline we hope kids take with them beyond the kung fu school and into the rest of their lives.” A big part of the kids program, Williss said, is Dragon PIE: Perseverance, Integrity and Education.
Smith leads Seabreeze with 2-under 34
Emmett Rosania receives the Two-Year Discipline Coin from Dragon Institute Sifu Adam Williss. Courtesy photo
Seabreeze defeated Matanzas 178-182 in a girls golf match on Sept. 14 at Palm Harbor Golf Club. The Sandcrabs won the match on the strength of Sabrina Smith’s 2-under 34. Gianna Lomash was the only other Sandcrab to shoot under 50 with a 46. All four Matanzas golfers shot in the 40s, led by Scarlett MacKenzie with a 40. Mary Grace Seward shot a 46, McKenzie Harrington shot a 47 and Willa Furnari shot a 49. The two teams were scheduled to play again
Among the girls, FPC’s Stella Guymon won the 50-yard freestyle in 25.72 seconds. Emma Gilbert placed first in the 500-yard freestyle in 5:58.61.
Matanzas swimmer Faith Liebel sings the national anthem.
on Sept. 16 at Riviera Country Club in Ormond Beach.
PRs for Green Wave runners
Father Lopez’s Lucy Fulton placed 32nd with a personalrecord time of 21:58 at the Astronaut Invite on Sept. 12 in Titusville. Among the boys, Liam Harman (19:19) and Walker Ouellette (19:58) each ran PR times.
Bulldogs boys 2nd, girls 3rd at swim meet
The Flagler Palm Coast boys swim team placed second behind DeLand at the Record Breaker Invitational on Sept. 12 at the Port Orange YMCA. The FPC girls placed third behind first-place Spruce Creek and runner-up DeLand. The FPC boys won the 200-yard medley relay with Alexander Rudik, Axel Dragstedt, Noah Roznos and Sammy Cimbala finishing in 1:43.90, nearly two seconds ahead of second-place Spruce Creek. Cimbala also won the 200 individual medley (2:04.55) and the 500-yard freestyle (4:57.88) and joined Kyle Pawulski, Roznos and Rudik to win the 400-yard freestyle relay. Rudzik also captured the 100 butterfly (54.38).
Pirates win boys medley relay before meet is halted Matanzas and Bartram Trail only got a few events in before the lightning alarm sounded at their swim meet on Sept. 10 at the Palm Coast Aquatics Center. The Pirates won the boys 200-yard medley with Alex Demers (backstroke), Leo Peters (butterfly) and Nelson Rojas (breaststroke) finishing in 1:50.97.
Local Collegians Former Mainland High defensive back Myron Shafer III had an interception for Bethune-Cookman in the Wildcats’ 43-18 win against Stetson on Sept. 12 at Daytona Stadium. Shafer’s interception with 3:20 left led to B-CU’s final touchdown as time ran out. FPC grad Colby Cronk, a sophomore defensive tackle at North Carolina State, had two tackles, assisted on a tackle for loss and added a quarterback hurry against Richmond on Sept. 11. Women’s volleyball player Rylan Miller of Palm Coast, who played three years for Matanzas, is a freshman libero at the University of Georgia. She has played in 18 sets and has 21 digs and two assists for the 7-2 Bulldogs. Send local college athletes information to Brent Woronoff at brent@observerlocalnews. com.
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
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Don't Gamble With Your Family's Peace of Mind
4C
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Get Your Chips in a Row. Because peace of mind is never a gamble.
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
TRIBUTES Shirley Ruth Skinner
December 5, 1926 - August 3, 2026 Shirley Ruth Skinner passed away peacefully at home on August 3, 2026, in Ormond Beach, Florida, at the age of 99. Born on December 6, 1926, in Elmira, New York, Shirley lived a life that spanned nearly a century. In 1949, she married Gerald R. Skinner, and they shared 58 years of marriage until his death in 2007. They later made their home in Miami, Florida, where they raised their daughter and built their family life together. Shirley was a homemaker for many years and, later, worked as a realtor in South Florida. She was also a lifelong Episcopalian whose faith remained an important part of her life. For many years, she taught Sunday School and
was active as a member of the Order of Eastern Star, PM, and the Daughters of the Nile. At the age of 54, Shirley suffered a major stroke. Even so, she continued forward with determination throughout the years that followed. Later, she and her family relocated to Winter Park, Florida, and eventually to Ormond Beach to be closer to their grandchildren. Her interests included sewing, reading, and working jigsaw puzzles. These quiet pursuits remained a meaningful part of her life and reflected the active mind she maintained over the years. Shirley is survived by her daughter, Shirley James; her son-in-law, Bruce; her four grandchildren, Stacey, Mason,
Troy, and Clay; and her four great-grandchildren, Violet, Hazel, Gabriel, and Cameron. A small family service will be held at St. James Episcopal Church in Ormond Beach on September 18. Memorial donations may be made to Shriner’s Hospital for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.
James C. Foster
November 20, 1930 - August 16, 2026
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In Loving Memory of James C. Foster James, age 95, peacefully entered into eternal rest on August 16, 2026, in Palm Coast, Florida. Deeply loved by his family, he was surrounded by those closest to him at the time of his passing. James proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict. After being honorably discharged, he went on to enjoy a distinguished career with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, retiring in 1989 as Director of Personnel. A devoted Christian and faithful servant, James served as a Deacon and in numerous leadership roles at both
Emmanuel Baptist Church in Washington, D.C., and Mount Calvary Baptist Church of Palm Coast. In 1997, he was elected to the General Board of the American Baptist Churches of the South (“ABCOTS”), and he held various other leadership positions in several national and regional organizations. James will be remembered for his unwavering faith, devoted service, and leadership. He leaves a lasting legacy of love to his three children, six grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and a host of cherished family members and friends. His life was a testament to faith, service, and love. He
will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. If you wish to donate in his memory, please give to the Mt. Calvary Baptist Church of Palm Coast Benevolence Fund. (https:// mtcalvarypc.org/giving).
Aida Correia Almeida
April 16, 1928 - September 8, 2026 Aida Correia Almeida died peacefully at her residence in Palm Coast, Florida on September 8th, 2026. She was the middle sister born on April 16, 1928 of the “Correia sisters”, Betty, Aida, and Irene, to Amadeu and Aida Correia in Elizabeth NJ where she was raised. Following her graduation from St. Patrick’s high school, she was employed by the Social Security Administration in Elizabeth where she quickly rose to the Head of the department. Her bilingual abilities enabled her to assist countless Portuguese people in the community with translations and important documents and establishing new friendships. Aida soon met the love of her life, Antonio Almeida and shared in a double wedding with her sister Betty to Edward, Antonio’s brother on June 12,1948. Two sisters, two brothers joined in marriage and bonded in life, raising families side by side. That closeness and family dedication has become a defining strength not only for her children but grandchildren as well. As Aida often said, “My foundation is built on these principles: Faith-Family-Friends.” Aida lived a full and purposeful life, always prioritizing her devotion to her Catholic Faith, her Family and her Friends. She was deeply involved in Our Lady of Fatima Church teaching both catechism and serving as an Eucharistic minister for 25 years. Her dedication to preserving our Portuguese heritage was evident in the decades of service and work she did at the PISC (Portuguese Instructive Social Club) that was founded by her father. She was
both humbled and honored to be Grand Marshall for the Portuguese Day Parade. She also served on the board of directors for the Portuguese school that bears her father’s name, for numerous decades. Through her life, actions and intentions, Aida touched and uplifted people from all walks of life. She always had a warm sense of humor, an unshakable fortitude in navigating life’s storms and genuine joy because the lens of her life was always through her faith. Trusting God’s plan, her one word mantra: “Acceptance” was often heard. There is so much that could be said about her life that spanned nearly a century, but the best reflection comes from her own words, written in her unpublished autobiography: “Early on in life, I have always had a strong sense of values; a close relationship with all family members and a strong connection with friends that I established through the years. I have always believed that the greatest treasure we possess in life are not material things, but are found in “Our Faith, Our Family and Our Friends” This, is substantiated by the feeling of complete joy and assurance that one feels in life, knowing that through ”faith”, God is the anchor of our being and the One who supplies our every need, the One who comforts us in times of joy and sorrows; Through “Family” we share an untold love, a caring and belonging for each other that goes without definition; and through “Friends” we share companionship and camaraderie in good times and bad times. My foundation is built on these principles: Faith, Family Friends.
She was preceded in death bShe was preceded in death by her husband, Antonio Almeida and son-in-law, David Hamilton of Newark, OH, and her sisters and brothers-in-law, Elizabeth and Edward Almeida and Irene and Carlos Reed. She is survived by her children Antonio (Elaine) Almeida, Rosemarie (Herb) Hiers, and Suzette Hamilton; 5 grandchildren, Antonio Almeida, Christopher Almeida, Curtis Hiers, Danielle Fallone and Jennifer Mann, and 9 great grandchildren. Viewing will be held at August F. Schmidt Funeral Home, Elizabeth, NJ on Sunday, September 13, 2026 from 1 PM to 5 PM. A Catholic Mass will be held at Our Lady of Fatima Church, Elizabeth, New Jersey, at 10:00 a.m. on Monday September 14, 2026; interment will follow at Hollywood Memorial Park and Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 4600 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast, FL 32164.
Honor your loved one with an elegant, affordable Tribute. Contact the Observer today. observerlocalnews.com/tributes
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Roofing
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1BR/1BA Bunnell/ Korona 32’ Motorhome for Rent on Private Property Includes = Electric, water, sewage and lawn maintenance. Sleeps 4/2 slide outs. $750.00 (386) 569-9211
For Sale
For Sale 2 Daisy Air Rifles with Supplies & Backstop, 2 New Copier/Scanner/Fax, Kitchen Items, CD’s Different Genres, Kurrig + Supplies, Collectable Die Cast Cars and Airplanes-still in boxes, WWII Nose Art Mugs. 386-586-5418 By Appt. Leave Message FOR SALE BY OWNER Palm Coast 2 Story Home. All New, Completely Renovated, Low Taxes, 1,848sqft Living Area. 4B/3B/3CG. 2nd Floor Lg Balcony. Call 386-437-7058 For More Info
Home Services Construction Cleanup Derrick The Clean Up Man. Haul Trash, Clean Flower Beds, Honey Do’s, Pressure Wash, Construction Cleans. No Job Is TOO BIG or TOO SMALL. Licensed. Insured 386-503-5536
SOD Removal and installation $550 per pallet sod labor prep work and taxes included No fees upfront no hidden charges Call Joe 904-868-7602 Farm fresh Sod every time 7 Days a week License and insured
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THE HAMMOCK
Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
VOLUME 1, NO. 52
LOCAL RINGERS PAGE 7B
FREE ON NEWSSTANDS | THURSDAY JUNE 25, 2026
How big will the data center be? City of Palm Coast issues clarification on size after DC Blox official’s comments on radio show. PAGE 4A
More homes in Palm Coast Proposed Seminole Woods development could add a grocery store, too. PAGE 3A INSIDE CERTIFIED FOR VPK Flagler Schools to add qualification requirement. PAGE 6A
LED BY ZEPP
Hidden behind Palm Coast development, the original Kings Road still tells Florida’s story. A walk in the woods with City Historian Preston Zepp. PAGE 3A
NO PROBLEM!
Flagler teams and individuals earn awards at the Future Problem Solvers World Finals. PAGE 1B
Whitney Lab’s art fundraiser helps research efforts Showcasing UF grad students studying at Marineland campus. ABE MILLS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The University of Florida Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience hosted “Whitney Magnified — Art of Science” on June 11, an event to help raise funds for students’ graduate studies and research at the campus in Flagler County. “This is a fund for graduate students, by graduate students,” UF graduate student Emily Skinner said. “We use this to help support graduate students if they need new technology or programs and things that maybe they can’t get covered by grants.” Graduate students created works of art for sale, inspired by the research and work that they do at the UF Whitney Laboratory, located at 9505 N. Ocean Shore Blvd., in Marineland. Student-created works of art included sculptures, photographs of microscopic organisms, paint-
ings, cards and Gyotaku, or traditional Japanese fish prints. Graduate student and Palm Coast resident Zain Khalid sold a Gyotaku of a red drum fish that he caught. The winning bid on his piece was $300. “Human health and the health of the environment are linked, and that’s part of why I really love being here at Whitney Lab,” Khalid said.” We’ve got a great ecosystem, and we do some really amazing science.” The ecosystem at UF Whitney lab is a result of its location and proximity to the ocean. “The reason why Whitney Laboratory is here rather than in Gainesville with the rest of the University of Florida is that we have a seawater pipe that goes underneath A1A into the Atlantic Ocean,” UF Whitney Laboratory Outreach Specialist Ellie Padgett said. “We have this amazing seawater piped in through all of our laboratory buildings, so that our animals that come from the ocean live in the exact same conditions that they would be if they were out in the ocean.”
Graduate student Emily Skinner holds up her DNA sand creations. Photos by Rachel Mills
Making an impact
HOME BUOYS
Palm Coast Big Buoys win big in first home game of new wooden bat collegiate league. PAGE 6B
Those involved in the fundraiser at Whitney Laboratory were asked the following question: Is the work that you’re doing changing the world? Here is what they said.
INDEX
“I don’t know if I’d be that confident, but maybe — maybe a touch, maybe a droplet.” — Cody Miner
Business .................... PAGE 8A Calendar .................... PAGE 2B Cops Corner ...............PAGE 2A Crossword ................. PAGE 4C Letters ......................PAGE 10A Public Notices ........... PAGE 5C Schools ...................... PAGE 3B Sports ........................ PAGE 6B Tributes ..................... PAGE 4C Real Estate ................ PAGE 4B
OBSERVER 50 LEANNI WAY, UNIT C3 PALM COAST, FL 32137 Graduate student Cody Miner displays his artwork.
*********ECRWSSEDDM**** POSTAL CUSTOMER PALM COAST, FL 32137
“Small projects together make a big picture.” — Dr. Ishani Mukherjee “I like the hope that the work I do with sea turtles can really help us understand our oceans.” — Emily Skinner “To understand how animals are affected by changes in their environment is really important.” — Zain Khalid
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PALM COAST, FL PERMIT 175
404546
• Roof Repair • Roof Replacement • Emergency Service •
Find your notices online at: ObserverLocalNews.com, FloridaPublicNotices.com and BusinessObserverFL.com
PUBLIC NOTICES
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Additional Public Notices may be accessed on ObserverLocalNews.com and the statewide legal notice website, FloridaPublicNotices.com
FLAGLER COUNTY LEGAL NOTICES the District Manager’s Office at 219 E. Livingston Street, Orlando, FL 32801; by calling (407) 841-5524, during normal business hours, or via the District’s website at https://radiancecdd.org. The meetings may be continued to a date, time, and place as evidenced by motion of the majority of Board Members participating. There may be occasions when one or more Supervisors will participate by telephone. Pursuant to provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person requiring special accommodation to participate in this meeting is asked to advise the District Office at (407) 841-5524 at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the meeting. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the Florida Relay Service (800) 955-8770, who can aid you in contacting the District Office. Each person who decides to appeal any action taken at these meetings is advised that person will need a record of the proceedings and that accordingly, the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which such appeal is to be based. Jeremy LeBrun District Manager Governmental Management Services – Central Florida, LLC 7763-359541 Sep. 17, 2026
NOTICE OF MEETING DATES SEMINOLE PALMS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT The Board of Supervisors of the Seminole Palms Community Development District will hold the remainder of their regularly scheduled public meetings for Fiscal Year 2027 at 12:30 pm, or shortly thereafter as reasonably possible, at the Hilton Garden Inn Palm Coast/Town Center, 55 Town Center Blvd., Palm Coast, Florida 32164, on the third Friday of every month as follows: October 16, 2026 November 20, 2026 December 18, 2026 January 15, 2027 February 19, 2027 March 19, 2027
April 16, 2027 May 21, 2027 June 18, 2027 July 16, 2027 August 20, 2027 September 17, 2027 The meetings are open to the public and will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Florida Law for Community Development Districts. A copy of the meeting agenda may be obtained from the District Manager’s Office at 219 E. Livingston Street, Orlando, FL 32801; by calling (407) 841-5524, during normal business hours, or via the District’s website at https://seminolepalmscdd. com. The meetings may be continued to a date, time, and place as evidenced by motion of the majority of Board Members participating. There may be occasions when one or more Supervisors will participate by telephone. Pursuant to provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person requiring special accommodation to participate in this meeting is asked to advise the District Office at (407) 841-5524 at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the meeting. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the Florida Relay Service (800) 955-8770, who can aid you in contacting the District Office. Each person who decides to appeal any action taken at these meetings is advised that person will need a record of the proceedings and that accordingly, the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, including the testimony and
NOTICE OF MEETING DATES RADIANCE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT The Board of Supervisors of the Radiance Community Development District will hold the remainder of their regularly scheduled public meetings for Fiscal Year 2027 at 12:30 pm, or shortly thereafter as reasonably possible, at the Hilton Garden Inn Palm Coast/Town Center, 55 Town Center Blvd., Palm Coast, Florida 32164,, on the third Friday of every month as follows: October 16, 2026 November 20, 2026 December 18, 2026 January 15, 2027 February 19, 2027 March 19, 2027 April 16, 2027 May 21, 2027 June 18, 2027 July 16, 2027 August 20, 2027 September 17, 2027 The meetings are open to the public and will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Florida Law for Community Development Districts. A copy of the meeting agenda may be obtained from
FIRST INSERTION
FIRST INSERTION
FIRST INSERTION
FIRST INSERTION
NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE COUNTY COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO. 2026 CC 001153 Division: 61 Jamie Ann Turk, Plaintiff, vs. The Estate of Jimmie Lee Nibert and Norma May Nibert, the Unknown Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, and all other parties claiming an interest by, through, under or against them, Defendant, And Debra Young, CoDefendant, And STATE OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HIGHWAY SAFETY AND MOTOR VEHICLES, CoDefendant TO: The Estate of Jimmie Lee Nibert and Norma May Nibert, the Unknown Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, and all other parties claiming an interest by, through, under or against them, YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Declaratory Judgment has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on the Plaintiff, whose address is: Jamie Ann Turk, 5 Apache St, Palm Coast, FL 32137, on or before 20 days from first publication and file the original with the clerk of this court either before service on the Plaintiff or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint. DATED on: 9/9/2026 TOM BEXLEY As Clerk of Circuit Court & Comptroller (SEAL) By: Sasha Harrell As Deputy Clerk Sept. 17, 24; Oct. 1, 8, 2026 26-00309G
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 182026CP000432AXXX01 Division Probate IN RE: ESTATE OF BRANDON J. DURAR Deceased. The administration of the estate of Brandon J. Durar, deceased, whose date of death was June 21, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Kim C. Hammond Justice Center, 1769 East Moody Boulevard, Building 1, Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is September 17, 2026. Personal Representative: /s/ Edward J Willie (Jul 29, 2026 21:31:15 EDT) Edward J. Willie 1 Satinwood Road Bayville, New York 11709-1811 Attorney for Personal Representative: /s/ Danielle Greenberg Danielle Greenberg, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 109473 DANIELLE B GREENBERG 1995 East Oakland Park Blvd Suite 315 Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33306 Telephone: (954) 289-0138 Fax: (954) 289-1007 E-Mail: greenberg.attorney@gmail.com Secondary E-Mail: greenberg.assistant@gmail.com September 17, 24, 2026 26-00310G
NOTICE TO CREDITORS File No. 2026 CP00426 Estate of Russell Newcomb Shaw, Deceased The administration of the Estate of Russell Newcomb Shaw deceased, whose date of death was April 28, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building 1, Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is September 17, 2026. Personal Representative: Sharon Gorea, Petitioner 5989 N. Ocean Shore Blvd. Palm Coast, FL 32137 Attorney for Personal Representative: Brian R. Giaquinto Florida Bar No. 0105927 brian@giaquintolegal.com 1616 Concierge Blvd., Suite 100 Daytona Beach, FL 32117 September 17, 24, 2026 26-00318G
NOTICE TO CREDITORS File No. 2026 CP 000422 Estate of Anna Marie Monteleone, Deceased The administration of the Estate of Anna Marie Monteleone, deceased, whose date of death was March 8, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building 1, Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is September 17, 2026. Personal Representative: Raymond Monteleone 3121 Middletown Road, Apt 9F Bronx, NY 10461 Attorney for Personal Representative: Brian R. Giaquinto Florida Bar No. 0105927 brian@giaquintolegal.com 1616 Concierge Blvd., Suite 100 Daytona Beach, FL 32117 September 17, 24, 2026 26-00319G
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Please take notice Go Store It - Flagler Beach located at 4601 E. Moody Blvd. Suite A7, Bunnell, FL 32110 intends to hold a public sale to the highest bidder of household goods and other personal property stored in the following units: P27 John Iles 125 Rachael Mooring 202 Rachael Mooring 212 Kyna Walter 239 Anthony Coffey 327 Valie Green Sale will be held 10/8/2026 at 11:30am via storagetreasures.com. Pursuant to Florida Statute § 83.806. 7763-358379 Sep. 17, 24, 2026
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS File No. 2026 CP 000403 Estate of Ivor Washington Roberts, Deceased The administration of the Estate of Ivor Washington Roberts, deceased, whose date of death was April 15, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building 1, Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is September 17, 2026. Personal Representative: Desiree Eades 17 Flarestone Court Palm Coast, Florida 32137 Attorney for Personal Representative: Brian R. Giaquinto Florida Bar No. 0105927 brian@giaquintolegal.com 1616 Concierge Blvd., Suite 100 Daytona Beach, FL 32117 September 17, 24, 2026 26-00317G
FIRST INSERTION FCC-Old Kings Flagler-Legal Notice Anthemnet, Inc., is proposing a 150’ monopole-type telecommunications tower within a 2,500-square-foot (MOL) lease area to be located at 5564 Sesame Blvd. Palm Coast, FL 32164, coordinates N2926-34.1. W81-10-47.7. The FAA has issued a Determination that lighting and marking are not necessary for aviation safety (FAA Study 2025-ASO-24215-OE). Anthemnet’s Federal Communications Commission ASR 854 File Number is A1394283, which you can view at http://www.fcc.gov/asr/ applications. Anthemnet seeks comments from all interested persons on the potential environmental impact or concerns of the tower; visit the FCC website to learn how to file a comment at http://www.fcc.gov/asr/ environmentalrequest. The FCC strongly encourages requests to be filed online; however, you may send a written request to: FCC Requests for Environmental Review, Attn: Ramon Williams, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554. Comments will be due no later than 10/24/2026. September 17, 2026 26-00312G
evidence upon which such appeal is to be based. Jeremy LeBrun District Manager Governmental Management Services – Central Florida, LLC 7763-359536 Sep. 17, 2026
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION 48 File # 2026 CP 449 IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JERRY LEE HENDERSON, Deceased. The administration of the Estate of JERRY LEE HENDERSON, Deceased, whose date of death was June 9, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Kim C. Hammond Justice Center, 1769 E. Moody Blvd, Bldg. 1, Bunnell, Florida 32110. The name and address of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the Decedent’s Estate on whom a copy of this Notice is required to be served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against Decedent’s Estate must file their claims with this Court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA STATUTES WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. Kerry Lawson, Personal Representative, 407 Creekside Drive, Taylorsville, KY 40071 The first publication of this notice is September 17, 2026. /s/ Andrea Burns ANDREA BURNS, ESQ. Florida Bar Number: 1031966 Geiger Law, PLLC Post Office Box 352951 Palm Coast, FL 32135 (386) 264-6937 telephone Attorney for Personal Representative andrea@386lawfirm.com September 17, 24, 2026 26-00314G
BOARD OF SUPERVIORS’ MEETING DATES GRAND HAVEN COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT FISCAL YEAR 2026/2027 Workshops: February 4th, 2027 at 9:00 a.m. May 7th, 2027 at 9:00 a.m. (Budget Workshop) September 2nd, at 9:00 a.m. Regular Meetings: October 15th, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. December 3rd, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. (Oaths of Office) January 21st, 2027 at 9:00 a.m. February 18th, 2027 at 9:00 a.m. March 18th, 2027 at 9:00 a.m. April 15th, 2027 at 9:00 a.m. May 20th, 2027 at 9:00 a.m. (Approve Budget) June 17th, 2027 at 9:00 a.m. July 15th, 2027 at 9:00 a.m. August 19th, 2027 at 9:00 a.m. (Adopt Budget) September 16th, at 9:00 a.m. Except as otherwise indicated above, all regular board meetings will convene the 3rd Thursday of the month at 9:00 a.m. at the Grand Haven Room, located at 2001 Waterside Parkway, Palm Coast, Florida 32137. All workshop meetings will convene the 1st Thursday of the month at 9:00 a.m. at the Grand Haven Room, located at 2001 Waterside Parkway, Palm Coast, Florida 32137. 7763-359799 Sep. 17, 2026 FLAGLER COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD INVITATION TO BID (ITB) NO. 27-01 ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR SERVICES
Flagler County School Board is accepting bids for the purchase of Electrical Contractor Services on an asneeded basis. Electronic submittals will be accepted until Monday, October 19, 2026 at 12:00 pm. Flagler County School Board solicitations are now available through OpenGov. In order to respond electronically to an open solicitation, a vendor must be a fully registered vendor in OpenGov. Registration is free for contractors/ bidders at: https://secure.procurenow. com/signup. Bids will be reviewed for responsiveness and responsibility in accord with the terms, conditions, and award criteria stated in this ITB. Subject to the District’s reserved rights, FCSD may award contracts to all responsive and responsible Bidders satisfying the requirements identified in the ITB Document. 7763-359935 Sep. 17, 2026 LEGAL NOTICE Dr. Lidya Lataban Lopez is no longer with Conviva Palm Coast as of Sept. 29, 2026. Current patients will automatically be transferred to another provider at the center. If you are a patient and you choose not to continue care at Conviva Palm Coast, you can obtain your medical records by calling 386-586-7005. 7763-357066 Sep. 3, 10, 17, 24, 2026
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA will hold
a Public Hearing as authorized by law at 7:00 P.M. on the 28th day of September 2026, for the purpose of Second and Final Hearing for Ordinance 2026-19 before the City Commission, in the Chambers Meeting Room of the Bunnell Administration Complex located at 2400 Commerce Pkwy, Bunnell, Florida 32110. ORDINANCE 2026-19 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA AMENDING THE CITY OF BUNNELL 2035 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN, AS PREVIOUSLY AMENDED; PROVIDING FOR THE SMALL-SCALE AMENDMENT TO THE FUTURE LAND USE MAP IN THE FUTURE LAND USE ELEMENT OF THE CITY OF BUNNELL 2035 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RELATIVE TO CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY TOTALING 12.82± ACRES IN THE CITY OF BUNNELL LIMITS FROM "MULTIFAMILY (MF)" TO "INDUSTRIAL (IND)"; PROVIDING FOR LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND INTENT; PROVIDING FOR ASSIGNMENT OF THE LAND USE DESIGNATIONS FOR THE PROPERTY; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR RATIFICATION OF PRIOR ACTS OF THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF MAPS BY REFERENCE; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION AND DIRECTIONS TO THE CODE CODIFIER AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE as may be legally permitted on the day of the meeting. Instructions on how to participate by electronic or other means, if legally permitted, would be found on the City of Bunnell's website at www.bunnellcity.us on the homepage. The public is advised to check the City's website for up-to-date information on any changes to the manner in which the meeting will be held and the location. The failure of a person to appear during said hearing and comment on or object to the Ordinance, either in person or in writing, might preclude the ability of such person to contest the Ordinance at a later date. A copy of all pertinent information to this Ordinance can be obtained at the Bunnell Administration Complex, 2400 Commerce Pkwy, Bunnell, FL 32110. Persons with disabilities needing assistance to attend this proceeding should contact the Bunnell City Clerk at (386) 437-7500 x 5 at least 48-business hours prior to the meeting. NOTICE: If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Commission on this matter a recording of the proceeding may be needed and for such purposes the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record is made which includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is based. (Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes)
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
FIRST INSERTION
FIRST INSERTION
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF FLORIDA IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 2025 CA 000812 NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, Plaintiff, vs. WILLIAM UNDERWOOD AKA WILLIAM SHELBY UNDERWOOD A/K/A WILLIAM S. UNDERWOOD, et al., Defendant. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Summary Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered August 4, 2026 in Civil Case No. 2025 CA 000812 of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT in and for Flagler County, Bunnell, Florida, wherein NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC is Plaintiff and William Underwood AKA William Shelby Underwood a/k/a William S. Underwood, et al., are Defendants, the Flagler County Clerk of Court, TOM W. BEXLEY, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash online via https://flagler. realforeclose.com/index.cfm in accordance with Chapter 45, Florida Statutes on the 2nd day of October, 2026 at 11:00 AM on the following described property as set forth in said Summary Final Judgment, to-wit: Lot 10, Block 4, Palm Coast, Map of Wynnfield, Section 22, according to the map or plat thereof, recorded in Plat Book 8, Page(s) 3 through 20, of the Public Records of Flagler County, Florida. Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens, must file a claim before the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed. If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114; (386) 257-6096. Hearing or voice impaired, please call 1 (800) 955-8770. /s/Robyn Katz Robyn Katz, Esq. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLP Attorney for Plaintiff 225 East Robinson Street, Suite 155 Orlando, FL 32801 Phone: (407) 674-1850 Fax: (321) 248-0420 Email: MRService@mccalla.com Fla. Bar No.: 146803 25-12786FL September 17, 24, 2026 26-00315G
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION 48 File # 2026 CP 26 IN RE: THE ESTATE OF IRENE C. BLASCO, Deceased. The administration of the Estate of IRENE C. BLASCO, Deceased, whose date of death was August 15, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Kim C. Hammond Justice Center, 1769 E. Moody Blvd, Bldg. 1, Bunnell, Florida 32110. The name and address of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the Decedent’s Estate on whom a copy of this Notice is required to be served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against Decedent’s Estate must file their claims with this Court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA STATUTES WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. Joan I. Blasco-Paul, 4 Blue Heron Lane, Palm Coast, FL 32137 James P. Blasco, II, 97 Voyager Court, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 Co-Personal Representatives The first publication of this notice is September 17, 2026. /s/ Andrea Burns ANDREA BURNS, ESQ. Florida Bar Number: 1031966 Geiger Law, PLLC Post Office Box 352951 Palm Coast, FL 32135 (386) 264-6937 telephone Attorney for Personal Representatives andrea@386lawfirm.com September 17, 24, 2026 26-00313G
SUBSEQUENT INSERTIONS SECOND INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2026 CP 000232 Division 48 IN RE: ESTATE OF NOELLA PESKLEVY A.K.A. NOELLA MARY-JANE PESKLEVY Deceased. The administration of the estate of Noella Pesklevy a.k.a. Noella Mary-Jane Pesklevy, deceased, whose date of death was January 20, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Bldg. 1, Bunnell, Florida 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representatives and the personal representatives’ attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty
to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is September 10, 2026. Personal Representatives: Adrienne Fox 76 Sekura Crescent Cambridge, Ontario, Canada N1R 7E8 Janet Pesklevy 15 Lunness Road Toronto, Ontario, Canada M98 3Z9 Attorney for Personal Representatives: /s/ Wendy A. Mara Wendy A. Mara, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 69872 555 West Granada Blvd., Ste.D-10 Ormond Beach, Florida 32174 Telephone: (386) 672-8081 Fax: (386) 265-5995 E-Mail: wamara@maralawpa.com Secondary E-Mail: pmflynt@maralawpa.com September 10, 17, 2026 26-00303G
SECOND INSERTION
SECOND INSERTION
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE COUNTY COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024 CC 001060 ADVANCED CONSTRUCTION & RENOVATION INC. D/B/A WATER MOLD INSURANCE REBUILD, Plaintiff, v. TRUDDIE MAE UNDERWOOD A/K/A TRUDDIE MAE JOHNSON and WANDA ELAINE UNDERWOOD, Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to the Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered on September 25, 2026, in Case No. 2024 CC 001060 of the County Court of the Seventh Judicial Circuit in and for Flagler County, Florida, ADVANCED CONSTRUCTION & RENOVATION INC. D/B/A WATER MOLD INSURANCE REBUILD is the Plaintiff, and TRUDDIE MAE UNDERWOOD A/K/A TRUDDIE MAE JOHNSON and WANDA ELAINE UNDERWOOD are the Defendants, for cash at public sale on September 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., by electronic sale at https:// flagler.realforeclose.com, the following described real property situated in Flagler County, Florida: SAM BROWN SUBD LOT 14 OR BOOK 43 PAGE 452 OR 463 PG 1132 OR 484 PG 1904 Property Address: 815 Hymon Circle, Bunnell, Florida 32110 The sale will be made pursuant to the Final Judgment of Foreclosure. ANY PERSON CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THE SURPLUS FROM THE SALE, IF ANY, OTHER THAN THE PROPERTY OWNER AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MUST FILE A CLAIM BEFORE THE CLERK REPORTS THE SURPLUS AS UNCLAIMED. Dated this 1st day of September, 2026. JENNIFER A. GARNER, P.A. Counsel for Plaintiff 24160 State Road 54, Suite 1 Lutz, Florida 33559 Email: jennifer@jenniferagarner.com /s/ Jennifer A. Garner Jennifer A. Garner, Esq. Florida Bar No. 089040 September 10, 17, 2026 26-00298G
NOTICE OF SALE IN THE COUNTY COURT, SEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT, IN AND FOR, FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-000997 RIVIERA ESTATES PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. Plaintiff, vs. IMTIAZ MOAIZ AND KANWAL MOAIZ Defendants. Notice is given that pursuant to a Summary Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered on August 5, 2026, in the above styled civil action of the County Court, in and for Flagler County, Florida, in which IMTIAZ MOAIZ AND KANWAL MOAIZ is the Defendant, and RIVIERA ESTATES PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., is the Plaintiff. The property will sell to the highest bidder for cash at 11:00 am. on October 2, 2026, on Flagler County’s Public Auction website: www.flagler.realforeclose.com in accordance with Chapter 45, Florida Statutes. Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim before the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed. The property to be sold as set forth in the Summary Final Judgment of Foreclosure is more particularly described as: Lot # 4, A Subdivision Plat of Riviera Estates as recorded in in Map Book 35, Pages 30 & 31 of the Public Records of Flagler County, Florida. 10 Riviera Estates Drive , Palm Coast, FL 32164 Plaintiff ’s Attorney: Crabtree Law Group, P.A., 8777 San Jose Boulevard, Bldg. A, Ste 200, Jacksonville, FL 32217 September 10, 17, 2026 26-00307G
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF SALE PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 45 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL ACTION CASE NO.: 2025 CA 000474 DIVISION: 2 FINANCE OF AMERICA REVERSE LLC, Plaintiff, vs. THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, OR OTHER CLAIMANTS CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER, OR AGAINST, CYNTHIA J.WEST AKA CYNTHIA JOYCE WEST, DECEASED , et al, Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN Pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated August 10, 2026, and entered in Case No. 2025 CA 000474 of the Circuit Court of the Seventh Judicial Circuit in and for Flagler County, Florida in which Finance of America Reverse LLC, is the Plaintiff and The Unknown Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, Assignees, Lienors, Creditors, Trustees, or other Claimants claiming by, through, under, or against, Cynthia J.West aka Cynthia Joyce West, deceased , United States of America Acting through Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Pauline Petrulah West, Garfield West, Hugh Rainford, Elaine Henry Johnson, are defendants, the Flagler County Clerk of the Circuit Court will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash in/on online at www.flagler.realforeclose.com, Flagler County, Florida at 11:00AM on the October 2, 2026 the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment of Foreclosure: LOT 5, OF BLOCK 44, OF PALM
COAST, MAP OF WYNNFIELD, SECTION 18, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 7, PAGE 24, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. A/K/A 74 WYNNFIELD DRIVE PALM COAST FL 32164 Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim before the Clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed. ATTENTION: PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, 386-257-6096, within 2 days of your receipt of this notice. If you are hearing impaired, call 1-800955-8771; if you are voice impaired, call 1-800-955-8770. THIS IS NOT A COURT INFORMATION LINE. To file response please contact Flagler County Clerk of Court, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building 1, Bunnell, FL 32110, Tel: (386) 313-465; Fax: (386) 4371928. Dated this 04 day of September, 2026. ALBERTELLI LAW P. O. Box 23028 Tampa, FL 33623 Tel: (813) 221-4743 Fax: (813) 221-9171 EService: servealaw@albertellilaw.com By: /s/ Robyn Sherer Florida Bar #1030716 Robyn Sherer Esq. IN/25-009529 September 17, 24, 2026 26-00316G
SUBSEQUENT INSERTIONS SECOND INSERTION NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION: CASE NO.: 2025 CA 000791 NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, Plaintiff, vs. CAROL L UMBARILA A/K/A CAROL LEE UMBARILA A/K/A CAROL UMBARILA; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF CAROL L UMBARILA A/K/A CAROL LEE UMBARILA A/K/A CAROL UMBARILA; UNKNOWN TENANT #1 AND UNKNOWN TENANT #2, Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to an Amended Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated August 31, 2026, and entered in 2025 CA 000791 of the Circuit Court of the Seventh Judicial Circuit in and for FLAGLER County, Florida, wherein NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, is the Plaintiff CAROL L UMBARILA A/K/A CAROL LEE UMBARILA A/K/A CAROL UMBARILA; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF CAROL L UMBARILA A/K/A CAROL LEE UMBARILA A/K/A CAROL UMBARILA; UNKNOWN TENANT #1 AND UNKNOWN TENANT #2, are the Defendant(s). Tom Bexley the Clerk shall sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, electronically at www.flagler.realforeclose. com at 11:00 AM on October 9, 2026, in accordance with Chapter 45, Florida Statutes, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: ALL THAT CERTAIN LAND SIUATE IN FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA, VIZ: LOT 4, BLOCK 19, PALM COAST, MAP OF ZEBULAH’S TRAIL, SEC-
TION 63, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREIF AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 18, PAGE 24 THROUGH 35, INCLUSIVE, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. Property Address: 14 ZIRCON CT, PALM COAST, FL 32164 ANY PERSON CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THE SURPLUS FROM THE SALE, IF ANY, OTHER THAN THE PROPERTY OWNER AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MUST FILE A CLAIM WITH THE CLERK BEFORE THE CLERK REPORTS THE SURPLUS AS UNCLAIMED. If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact court administration, 101 N. Alabama Ave., Ste. B-206, Deland, FL 32724; (386) 257-6096 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing impaired call 711. Dated this 2nd day of September 2026 By: /s/ Orlando DeLuca Orlando DeLuca, Esq Bar Number: 719501 Submitted by: DELUCA LAW GROUP, PLLC 2101 NE 26th STREET FORT LAUDERDALE, FL 33305 PHONE: (954) 368-1311 | FAX: (954) 200-8649 service@delucalawgroup.com 25-06966-1 September 10, 17, 2026 26-00297G
SECOND INSERTION NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION CASE NO. 2019 CA 000699 WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR WAMU MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2004-PR2 TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. GABRIELA ALEJANDRA FRANCIS; ROBERT STUART COULTER; ALL UNKNOWN HEIRS, CREDITORS, DEVISEES, BENEFICIARIES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST THE ESTATE OF MARINA FRANCIS, DECEASED; GRACE FRANCIS; CHARLES FRANCIS; ELIZABETH A. FRANCIS; GRACE C. FRANCIS, TRUSTEE OF THE MARINA G. FRANCIS REVOCABLE TRUST; GRACE C. FRANCIS, AS PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF MARINA FRANCIS, DECEASED; ALL UNKNOWN HEIRS, CREDITORS, DEVISEES, BENEFICIARIES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST THE ESTATE OF HECTOR GALARCE, DECEASED; HECTOR HUGO GALARCE, JR.; MATANZAS SHORES OWNER’S ASSOCIATION, INC.; LAKESIDE BY THE SEA HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.; UNKNOWN PERSON(S) IN POSSESSION OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY; Defendant(s) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure filed August 7, 2026 and entered in Case No. 2019 CA 000699, of the Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit in and for FLAGLER County, Florida, wherein WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR WAMU MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2004-PR2 TRUST is Plaintiff and GABRIELA ALEJANDRA FRANCIS; ROBERT STUART COULTER; ALL UNKNOWN HEIRS, CREDITORS, DEVISEES, BENEFICIARIES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST THE ESTATE OF MARINA FRANCIS, DECEASED; GRACE FRANCIS; CHARLES FRANCIS; ELIZABETH A. FRANCIS; GRACE C. FRANCIS, TRUSTEE OF THE MARINA G. FRANCIS
REVOCABLE TRUST; GRACE C. FRANCIS, AS PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF MARINA FRANCIS, DECEASED; ALL UNKNOWN HEIRS, CREDITORS, DEVISEES, BENEFICIARIES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST THE ESTATE OF HECTOR GALARCE, DECEASED; HECTOR HUGO GALARCE, JR.; UNKNOWN PERSON(S) IN POSSESSION OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY; MATANZAS SHORES OWNER’S ASSOCIATION, INC.; LAKESIDE BY THE SEA HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.; are defendants. TOM W. BEXLEY, the Clerk of the Circuit Court, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash BY ELECTRONIC SALE AT: www.flagler. realforeclose.com, at 11:00 A.M., on 2nd day of October, 2026, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 114, SUBDIVISION PLAT OF LAKESIDE AT MATANZAS SHORES, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 28, PAGE 63, PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim before the Clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed. This notice is provided pursuant to Administrative Order No.2.065. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to provisions of certain assistance. Please contact the Court Administrator at 200 East Moody Boulevard, Rm.125, Bunnell, Fl 32110, Phone No. (904)437-7394 within 2 working days of your receipt of this notice or pleading; if you are hearing impaired, call 1-800-955-8771 (TDD); if you are voice impaired, call 1-800-995-8770 (V) (Via Florida Relay Services). Dated this 2nd day of September 2026. /s/ Marc Granger Marc Granger, Esq. Fla. Bar No.: 146870 Kahane & Associates, P.A. 1619 NW 136th Avenue, Suite D-220 Sunrise, Florida 33323 Telephone: (954) 382-3486 Telefacsimile: (954) 382-5380 Designated service email: notice@kahaneandassociates.com File No.: 17-00290 SPS V6.20190626 September 10, 17, 2026 26-00299G
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF MEETINGS TOWN CENTER AT PALM COAST COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT The Board of Supervisors of the Town Center at Palm Coast Community Development District will hold its meetings for Fiscal Year 2027 at the Hilton Garden Inn Palm Coast/ Town Center, located at 55 Town Center Boulevard, Palm Coast, Florida 32164 on the third Friday of every other month at 10:00 a.m. unless otherwise noted as follows: November 20, 2026 January 15, 2027 March 19, 2027 May 21, 2027 – Budget Approval July 23, 2027 – Budget Adoption September 17, 2027 There may be occasions when one or more Supervisors will participate via telephone. Any interested person can attend the meetings at the above location and be fully informed of the discussions taking place. The meetings may be continued in progress without additional notice to a time, date, and location stated on the record. Any person requiring special accommodations at these meetings because of a disability or physical impairment should contact the District Office at (407) 566-1935 at least 48 hours prior to the meetings. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the Florida Relay Service at 7-1-1, or 800-955-8771 (TTY)/800-955-8770 (Voice), for aid in contacting the District Office. Each person who decides to appeal any action taken by the Board at these meetings is advised that person will need a record of the proceedings and accordingly, the person may need to ensure a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which such appeal is to be based. Howard Neal District Manager September 17, 2026
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SUBSEQUENT INSERTIONS SECOND INSERTION NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION: 53 CASE NO.: 2026 CA 000189 LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. FERRELL D. FURGERSON A/K/A FERRELL FURGERSON AKA FERRELL DESEAN FURGERSON; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING ON BEHALF OF THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF FERRELL D. FURGERSON AKA FERRELL FURGERSON AKA FERRELL DESEAN FURGERSON Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to an Order or Final Judgment entered in the above styled cause now pending in said court and as required by Florida Statute 45.031(2), TOM W. BEXLEY as the Clerk of the Circuit Court for FLAGLER County shall sell to the highest and best bidder for cash electronically at www.flagler. realforeclose.com at, 11:00 AM on the 02 day of October, 2026, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 18, BIMINI GARDENS, A SUBDIVISION, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT OR MAP THEREOF, DESCRIBED IN PLAT BOOK 10, PAGE 16, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. TOGETHER WITH THE 2006 FLEETWOOD HOMES OF GA, SPRING HILL 4483S MOBILE HOME PERMANENTLY AFFIXED BEARING VIN #GAFL634A80068SH21 and VIN #GAFL634B80068SH21. PROPERTY ADDRESS: 197 BIMINI
LN, BUNNELL, FL 32110 IF YOU ARE A PERSON CLAIMING A RIGHT TO FUNDS REMAINING AFTER THE SALE, YOU MUST FILE A CLAIM WITH THE CLERK NO LATER THAN THE DATE THAT THE CLERK REPORTS THE FUNDS AS UNCLAIMED. IF YOU FAIL TO FILE A CLAIM, YOU WILL NOT BE ENTITLED TO ANY REMAINING FUNDS. AFTER THE FUNDS ARE REPORTED AS UNCLAIMED, ONLY THE OWNER OF RECORD AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MAY CLAIM THE SURPLUS. If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300 Daytona Beach, FL 32114 (386) 257-6096 Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711. Dated this 04 day of September 2026. By: /s/ Lindsay Maisonet Lindsay Maisonet, Esq. Bar Number: 93156 Submitted by: De Cubas & Lewis, P.A. PO Box 5026 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33310 Telephone: (954) 453-0365 Facsimile: (954) 771-6052 Toll Free: 1-800-441-2438 DESIGNATED PRIMARY E-MAIL FOR SERVICE PURSUANT TO FLA. R. JUD. ADMIN 2.516 eservice@decubaslewis.com 25-02831 September 10, 17, 2026 26-00306G
SECOND INSERTION
SECOND INSERTION
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2026 CP 000339 IN RE: ESTATE OF ANGEL M COLINA, Deceased. The administration of the estate of ANGEL M COLINA, Deceased, whose date of death was March 27, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for FLAGLER County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is1769 E. Moody Blvd. Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. A personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211. The date of first publication of this notice is September 10, 2026. Personal Representative: Nydia Colina Attorney for Personal Representative: Scott R. Bugay, Esquire Florida Bar No. 5207 2051 Hollywood Blvd. Suite 206 Hollywood, Florida 33020 Telephone: (954)767-3399 Fax: (305) 945-2905 Primary Email: Scott@srblawyers.com Secondary Email: angelica@srblawyers.com September 10, 17, 2026 26-00301G
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2026 CP 475 Division 48 IN RE: ESTATE OF JAMES H. SCHNEIDER Deceased. The administration of the estate of James H. Schneider, deceased, whose date of death was May 3, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 East Moody Blvd., Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is September 10, 2026. Personal Representative: Kimberley Carr 94 Port Royal Drive Palm Coast, Florida 32164 Attorney for Personal Representative: Diane A. Vidal Attorney Florida Bar Number: 1008324 CHIUMENTO LAW 145 City Place, Suite 301 Palm Coast, FL 32164 Telephone: (386) 445-8900 Fax: (386) 445-6702 E-Mail: DVidal@legalteamforlife.com Secondary E-Mail: Proserv@legalteamforlife.com September 10, 17, 2026 26-00308G
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
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