PCO 06 24 21

PALM COAST

Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 12, NO. 21

COMING HOME PAGE 22 THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

Choosing your next mayor A look at candidates’ views on taxation, economic development, law enforcement and more. PAGES 9-11

‘It has been truly a privilege’

2021

HURRICANE GUIDE

County Administrator Jerry Cameron’s last day of work for the county will be July 2. PAGE 2

Weathering the storm Your guide to making a plan, gathering supplies and being informed when a storm approaches PAGES 12-16

INSIDE NEW TIMELINE

Completion date for new Sheriff’s Operations Center pushed back PAGE 4 Photo by Jonathan Simmons

SALES TAX

City won’t back county’s proposed sales tax hike PAGE 5

SPEAKING OUT

Former city manager writes that he was forced out after resisting ‘malfeasance’ PAGE 3

Heidi Petito listens at a June 21 meeting as County Administrator Jerry Cameron speaks. Cameron will step down on July 2.

WATER BALLET

Synchro Belles bound for Championship PAGE 17

INSIDE

BUG OFF

‘Cicadian’ rhythms set to perform live in Palm Coast this summer PAGE 3

Courtesy Photo

INDEX

Briefs..................... PAGE 8 Business.............. PAGE 23 Sports...................PAGE 21 Real Estate.......... PAGE 24 Your Town............PAGE 20

THERAPY HORSE VISITS RESIDENTS Photo by Michele Meyers

Mariia Nosenko and Paityn Lawrence are lifted by Molly Anderson and Carlysle Kline.

Dude the therapy horse stopped by the Tuscan Gardens assisted living facility on June 13.

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PalmCoastObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

Heidi Petito to become Flagler’s interim county administrator Jorge Salinas will remain second-in-command.

JERRY CAMERON TO STEP DOWN JULY 2

NEWS EDITOR

Heidi Petito, previously Flagler County’s General Services director, earned a unanimous County Commission vote June 21 to become the county’s interim county administrator as County Administrator Jerry Cameron steps down.

“I think that we’ve got a great team, an extraordinary team, and I look forward to continuing to move the organization in that direction, even if it is only in an interim capacity,” Petito said at a County Commission meeting June 21.

That was not the expected transition: Cameron’s second-incommand, Jorge Salinas, has been trained for the tasks associated with the administrator position, and had been the expected pick.

But Salinas, Cameron said at a June 21 commission meeting, had decided to stay in his current position as chief of staff and was backing Petito for interim administrator.

“Flagler County is indeed fortunate,” Cameron said. “We have two people that are ready and could take over any organization this size tomorrow, and do a great job. ... I agree with him that Heidi has a longstanding record of accomplishment here. She has grown up the ranks; she under-

Heidi Petito

stands every portion of what we do here.”

Cameron proposed that the commission appoint Petito for a three-month interim position, ending Sept. 30, then make a decision on whether to retain her as regular county administrator or conduct a search.

“That will give you three months, will give Heidi months, to assess what that position is and what her abilities are,” Cameron said. “You will effectively have a three-month interview.”

Petito had indicated that, should the commission decide to conduct a search after the interim period, she’d be wiling to stay on while that happens, Cameron said.

Commissioner Andy Dance suggested that county staff “work in the background to prepare search parameters,” so that if the commission ultimately decides to conduct a search after Sept. 30, it can do so quickly.

Commission Chairman Donald O’Brien noted that Petito will be the county’s first female county administrator.

Cameron’s last day will be July 2.

cated projects, built an esprit de corps among the county’s staff and financially secured the county’s future by building up its reserves.

He mentioned a number of the initiatives Cameron had undertaken, including planning for a new Sheriff’s Operations Center and the federal dune renourishment project.

“One by one, he’s been just knocking them off, and that was his mission,” O’Brien said. “ ... and I think we’re almost there.”

Cameron is technically the county’s interim administrator: Although commissioners opted to keep him on indefinitely after initially selecting him for the interim position in February 2019, as a St. Johns County resident, he was ineligible under state law to be appointed to the regular, non-interim Flagler County administrator post unless he moved to Flagler County.

Cameron, in comments at the end of the June 21 meeting, credited staff and the commission.

“It has been truly a privilege for me to be associated with people who genuinely have such interest in this community,” he said.

County Administrator Jerry Cameron’s last day of work for the county will be July 2.

County Commissioners said their farewells at a June 21 commission meeting — Cameron’s last before he steps down.

Commission Chairman Donald O’Brien said Cameron has managed many compli-

Photo by Jonathan Simmons

County Administrator Jerry Cameron will step down on July 3.

JUNE 14

SEEING RED 7:30 p.m. First block of Town Center Boulevard.

Assault/battery. A woman got into an argument with a man in a red pickup truck about his driving.

The man got out of the red truck and jumped onto her car, breaking the outside mirror, then smacked her in the face.

The woman reported the crime.

Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputies didn’t find the man.

JUNE 15

WARM WELCOME 3:43 p.m. Palm Coast.

Larceny. A man left for vacation for four days.

When he returned home, his exterior air conditioning condensing unit was gone.

The man contacted the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies are investigating.

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PalmCoastObserver.com

LOCAL CICADAS

CICADIAN

rhythms

BRENT FOSTER

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

T

his summer, the United States will host one of nature’s wildest concerts filled with sex, drugs, and rock’n roll. The stars of the show? Billions of cicadas that have been hiding underground for up to 17 years.

The life cycle of cicadas is one of the most intriguing sagas in the animal kingdom, filled with mysteries that perplex biologists. Perhaps the most dramatic example is the group of species known as “periodical” cicadas— these insects spend 13–17 years of their life in solitary confinement underground to emerge in the billions for one month of summer.

We won’t see periodical cicadas in north-central Florida, but most Palm Coast residents are probably familiar with the competing bands of our local cicadas, from the zitzit-zit-zit of the seaside cicada to the soft buzz of the swamp cicada that crescendos and pulsates and then finally tapers off in a diminuendo in the early mornings.

Chances are you haven’t seen these cicadas. Even if you have, you may not be able to tell one species from another. And yet each has its own distinct song.

“Of the nearly 200 species of cicadas found in the United States, you can count on one hand the lifecycles we know about in any appreciable detail,” said Brian Stucky, a scientist at the University of Florida who earned his PhD studying the relationship between cicadas and parasitic flies. “There’s still so much to uncover.”

UNIQUE LIFE CYCLE

Most cicadas hatch from trees and fall to the ground, where they burrow and spend up to 99.7% of their lives as nymphs. Underground, they seem to lead a pretty dull life, sucking up sap from roots.

For some context, the average human lifespan is approximately 79 years. If you lived the cicada lifecycle, you would spend about 78 years and 10 months in your eccentric uncle’s underground bunker, then emerge for two months to search for and hope-

A periodical cicada

Photo courtesy of the National Park Service

Cicadas are harmless, but they can be as loud as a jackhammer, and have a unique life cycle.

drawn to the noise of their equipment. One report says that some species can produce a sound in the 100-decibel range, the same intensity as a jackhammer.

CICADA SONGS

Photo from wikimedia commons

The swamp cicada.

fully find your soul mate before you die.

“The question is how and why do periodical cicadas have such a unique lifecycle with such a tight synchrony?” Stucky said. The current hypothesis supposes that periodical cicadas evolved this lifecycle as a means to avoid predation. Basically, most predators would die off quickly if they waited for cicada broods to emerge.

You’d starve, too, if you had to wait 13 to 17 years between meals.

No one knows how cicadas can tell when it’s time to emerge. One key factor is soil temperature, but this doesn’t account for the years-long timer.

Whatever the main switch, the emergence of cicada broods can be dramatic. Young nymphs claw their way to the surface, hook themselves at the base of a tree, and molt one last time, leaving an empty husk of their old selves as they emerge into adulthood and fly off. You may see these husks clinging to the bark of trees.

The next 4–6 weeks of a cicada’s life is spent in a frenzied search for mates, to begin the cycle all over again. The method of attracting potential mates? Making lots of noise. Construction workers sometimes say that cicadas are

“Cicadas make sounds for two main reasons: to attract a mate and to startle predators,” said Stucky. Males congregate into choral groups, maneuvering special organs on their abdomens that have evolved for making sound. These organs, called tymbals, consist of a ribbed membrane stretched taught like a drum. Muscles on the inside of the membrane will contract, collapsing the ribs. When the muscles relax, the ribs snap back into place, producing a clicking sound.

“It’s like if you squeezed an empty soda can in your hand and then let go,” explained Stucky.

“Then when the can snaps back into place, it makes a crinkling sound.” In general, only the male cicadas sing.

Females may be mute, but they are acute listeners. They’ll listen to the different musical arrangements—a cacophony of discordant sounds, like trying to pick out the voice of Ed Sheeran while Josh Groban and Louis Armstrong and Billy Joel imitators are all singing different songs. No one really knows what makes one cicada’s song stand out from the rest.

When a female hears something she likes, she’ll find the crooning male herself. In some species, females will flick their wings at the males to catch the attention of their future lovers.

THE PARASITES

As you might imagine, all that ruckus also attracts unwanted attention. Parasitic flies such as Emblemasoma erro listen for the male cicada’s song.

A pregnant female fly will then stalk the cicada, waiting, biding its time. When the cicada takes flight, the fly will zip out—“Faster than you’re able to see,” Stucky explained—and in mid-flight the fly will dip down its abdomen, depositing its living larvae to burrow into the cicada’s body.

The larvae will eventually eat the

There are at least 19 species of cicada found in Florida. Here in Flagler County, you’re likely to hear any number of them this summer in densely wooded areas. One of the species that emerges first is called the hieroglyphic cicada—from early June through July, these insects produce a discordant droning that has been described as sounding like the engine of a model airplane.

Though local scientists don’t have definitive data on where you’re most likely to find cicada colonies, it seems as if these insects prefer stands of pine or oak trees for their center stage.

If you’re interested in learning more about the cicadas that are common to northern Florida and want to test your ability to differentiate species, check out this website: https:// orthsoc.org/sina/ c700fl1.htm.

cicada from the inside out.

“For the most part these flies parasitize male cicadas,” Stucky said. These parasitic flies have been documented to infest swamp cicadas here central Florida. It’s unclear whether these flies attack periodical cicadas.

Periodical cicadas have an even more specialized parasite, one that has actually managed to synchronize itself to their 13–17-year lifecycle, rendering their primary defense useless. This predator is a fungus, Massospora cicadina.

It also prefers male cicadas, creating a yellow plug of fungal spores that replaces the cicadas’ abdomens. The spores hijack the male’s nervous system and causes him to flick his wings. This behavior is often used by female cicadas to attract a male during mating, meaning that the Massospora fungus manipulates its dying victims to lure other males close enough for the spores to spread.

Cicadas themselves are harmless—they don’t bite or sting, nor do they damage property or eat our crops. Early settlers of North America thought of cicadas like plagues of locusts described in the Bible. While their sheer numbers may seem biblical and their sounds may be a persistent reminder of an unseen presence, these insects keep to themselves. They don’t have time for anything else. For insects that only spend a fraction of their lives above ground, they’re focused on one thing only: find their soulmate and make babies.

“The lifecycle of these insects is really amazing,” Stucky said.

“They live quite a long time, but so little of their life is actually known by humans.”

So when you walk outside and hear that constant, rattling trill of the lyric cicada in your backyard, think of the short flings happening across the stage of the whole United States. Maybe take a break from thinking about the buzz of your own short life and take a moment to enjoy nature’s summer symphony.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

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Morton writes that he was forced out by Danko, Barbosa JONATHAN SIMMONS NEWS EDITOR

Two days after he unexpectedly announced his resignation May 27, then-City-Manager Matt Morton wrote an email to his own city email account stating that he was being forced out of his position by city councilmen Ed Danko and Victor Barbosa after resisting what he called their “malfeasance.”

Morton wrote, “I am writing this 29th of May, 2021 in advance [of] what I believe could be a retaliation/constructive discharge — certainly a resignation forced due to malfeasance of office and/ or threats by Council members Barbosa and Danko.”

Morton, in his resignation letter, had cited Tenet 10 of the ICMA’s ethics code, which instructs city managers to “resist any encroachment on professional responsibilities.”

In a separate email sent from his personal email account to his official city email account on May 29, he’d elaborated, writing that Barbosa and Danko had pressured him to fire specific city staff members and that Barbosa had tried to influence staff hirings.

Palm Coast’s City Charter explicitly bars such interference by council members.

Danko, speaking briefly by phone while attending a candidate forum June 22, denied the allegations and said Morton had “resigned under a cloud.”

Barbosa, reached by Facebook messenger, wrote, “These accusations are not only false, but slanderous and shouldn’t be printed.”

Morton wrote that Danko “had a list of employees he wanted fired/gone among other things.”

“I disagreed with almost all of his nonsense,” Morton wrote, “and told him he was wrong, clueless and a ‘political w---e’ who has traded good governance for politics and would destroy this community.”

“Matt Morton is a liar,” Danko said in the phone interview. “I never gave Matt Morton a list … I don’t have a list. The city manager hires and fires city employees.”

Morton, in his email, added that Danko was under an HR inquiry for harassing employees. “Several employees came forward,” Morton wrote. “He was furious with me.”

Danko, asked by a reporter if he’d been the subject of an HR investigation, said, “No — that’s ridiculous.”

Morton alleged that Barbosa had pressed him to hire Perry Mitrano, the former solid waste supervisor for Bunnell, as the city of Palm Coast’s garbage supervisor after meeting with the two men. Barbosa said he’d brought Mitrano to Morton to offer advice on the city’s solid waste issues, not to suggest that Morton hire him.

Asked about the allegations in Morton’s letter, the two remaining city council members — Nick Klufas and Eddie Branquinho — said they weren’t aware of Barbosa or Danko asking for individual staff members to be fired.

But Branquinho said he believed Morton.

“I believe Mr. Morton’s statements,” Branquinho said after reading Morton’s email. “Mr. Morton never lied to me.”

For more information, view this story at palmcoastobserver.com.

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PALM COAST OBSERVER

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PalmCoastObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

ExploreConnect Play with Parks & Recreation

Featured

Completion date for new Sheriff’s Operations Center pushed back by 11 months The 51,615-square-foot Operations Center was initially expected to be finished in November 2021.

JONATHAN SIMMONS NEWS EDITOR

Join us on July 3 for fun and fireworks at Central Park! Pack a picnic and blanket and get cozy for the show. The event starts at 6pm and Fireworks start at 9:15pm!

Three to See

Construction of the planned $19 million Sheriff’s Operations Center is now expected to end almost a year later than previously anticipated.

The County Commission, late last year, approved a construction timeline that was expected to end with completion in November 2021. But a new guaranteed maximum price contract approved by the County Commission at a June 21 meeting listed a completion date of October 2022.

County Administrator Jerry Cameron said COVID-19 had affected materials and labor.

“I think that it is incredible that we maintained as much of a schedule as we did, with everything shutting down during COVID,” Cameron said at the meeting. “The great news here is that this portion of the contract is coming in exactly on budget.”

Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly and his staff have been dis-

placed since the summer of 2018, when the agency evacuated its previous Ops Center on State Road 100 due to concerns that mold or other contaminants were responsible for staff members’ illnesses.

The county government is responsible for providing facilities for the sheriff, and had created the former Ops Center from the bones of an old hospital that sat empty for years before the county renovated it for the Sheriff’s Office’s use in 2015.

When FCSO employees began reporting bizarre medical symptoms, staff members pressed for an evacuation, saying the structure was a sick building. The county government conducted multiple rounds of environmental testing on the building, but ultimately decided to get rid of it and start over — leaving the FCSO temporarily homeless.

As they wait for their new Operations Center, FCSO staff members have been divided between the county courthouse and an administrative facility at the

Courtesy image

county jail.

Staly and Clerk of Courts Tom Bexley have both pressed the County Commission to act swiftly to shift the FCSO’s staff to a more workable location.

Commissioner Andy Dance asked about the reason for the delay.

Ajax Operations Manager Lon Neuman replied that design and pricing issues had delayed completion of the design, pushing back the start of construction.

The contract approved at the June 21 meeting, for $2.91 million, covers the first phase of the work: site work and utilities. Ajax will return to the county in September with another guaranteed maximum price contract for the rest of the project.

The two-story, 51,615-squarefoot Operations Center will be built on 8.4 acres near the county’s Government Services Building on State Road 100.

The new Operations Center will be about twice the size of the old one.

“I think that it is incredible that we maintained as much of a schedule as we did, with everything shutting down during COVID.” JERRY CAMERON, Flagler County administrator

Robotics Camp

Monday, June 28

How Flagler plans to spend $22 million in stimulus money

Aqua Zumba®

Tuesday, June 29

JULIE MURPHY FLAGLER COUNTY PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

Flagler County has a plan in place to spend its share of the $1.9 trillion stimulus package signed into law in March that includes $350 billion for state and local governments to recover from COVID-19.

The county will have until the end of 2024 to allocate the funds.

They will be used based on federal guidelines.

Phase 1 projects include the following: n Provide water and sewer infrastructure to underserved areas — $1.8 million n Expand access to mental health therapy — $500,000 n Reimburse revenue lost due to COVID-19 — $1 million n COVID-related expenses not already reimbursed — $250,000 n Mental Health Clinic initia-

tives — $300,000 n Provide funds to the Florida Governmental Utility Authority to expand water and sewer infrastructure, especially in the Plantation Bay area — $1.5 million n Expand sewer infrastructure at MalaCompra and Bing’s Landing — $3.3 million n Network upgrades, including Office 365, to increase county’s ability to telework — $1 million n Expand program space for Florida Department of HealthFlagler — $80,000 n Contribute to expanding broadband capabilities to underand unserved areas of the county — $1 million n Expand water and sewer infrastructure at Bull Creek Campground — $150,000 n Develop county storm water drainage plan — $296,568 Phase 2 projects include the following:

n Implement county storm water drainage plan — $1.2 million n Reimburse revenue lost due to COVID-19 — $1 million n Expand water and sewer infrastructure at the Florida Agricultural Museum — $1.6 million n Expand water and sewer infrastructure at the Princess Place Preserve — $2.3 million n Reduce close contact with customers at the Tax Collector’s Office by installing drive-thru window — $125,000 n Implement pandemic mitigation measures at public facilities — $4 million n Increase availability of public restroom facilities in support of public health — $448,135 n Network upgrades, including Office 365, to increase County’s ability to telework effectively — $500,000.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

5

CITY WATC H

Divided City Council rejects county’s request to support half-cent sales tax increase JONATHAN SIMMONS NEWS EDITOR

BY THE NUMBERS

$2.26 million

Palm Coast’s current share of the county’s existing Small County Surtax money

73-76%

Percentage of calls for which the Palm Coast Fire Department is able to meet its goal of a sub7-minute response time

12-14 minutes

Response time in the Seminole Woods area, where the Fire Department would like to add a new station

Palm Coast’s Fire Station 22 is old, and it’s small — so much so that standard modern fire trucks, the kind the city uses at other stations, won’t fit inside its bays. The city has to have apparatus custom built for it.Its living quarters for firefighters are also inadequate: 16 share one bunk room.

It needs replacement, not renovation, Fire Chief Jerry Forte told City Council members at a June 22 meeting.

Meanwhile, he said, the city also needs to add new stations in the Seminole Woods Parkway area and the Whiteview Parkway area, where response times can be 12-14 minutes and 8-10 minutes, respectively.

The department aims to have a sub-7-minute response time 85% of the time.

At the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, the agency hopes to add more deputies to cope with Palm Coast’s rising population.

Forte and Sheriff’s Office Chief of Staff Mark Strobridge spoke before the council June 22, laying out the costly needs of their respective agencies

(Strobridge was standing in for Sheriff Rick Staly, who was out of town), to press the council to support the county government’s push to raise the county’s sales tax by half a cent.

The county currently has a half-cent sales tax. It’s considering adding another half-cent, bringing the overall total sales tax to 7.5 cents, including the state’s and school district’s share.

Some of that money flows to city coffers — Palm Coast got $3.26 million this part year — to fund things like public safety initiatives.

The county had requested local city elected boards’ support for the tax incase. It didn’t get it in Palm Coast.

“The county has asked us to simply support their tax increase. This is a county tax increase,” City Councilman Ed Danko said. “This is not the city of Palm Coast. ... Do they not lack the courage to pass this tax increase on their own?

They need us to get behind them first?”

Councilman Victor Barbosa was concerned that raising the

sales tax would drive shoppers to cross county lines and go elsewhere for better prices.

Councilman Nick Klufas thought it unlikely that people would be driving out of the county just to avoid paying an extra 50 cents on a $100 purchase. Councilman Eddie Branquinho supported the increase for the purpose of improving emergency response times.

Forte said the city Fire Department is on the verge of raising its ISO rating from a 2 to a 1, which would lead to lower homeowners’ insurance rates. Paying for the improvements using sales tax money would mean that out-town-visitors, as well as residents, would share the burden, he said.

Danko asked how much money it would save for residents. City staff didn’t know.

“Let the county figure out what they’re going to do,” Danko said. “Let them vote or not vote for it. Let them learn how to tighten their belts and stop buying moldy buildings.

But I don’t want them coming to us for cover to get a tax increase.”

$4.5 million

estimate for design and construction of a new station to replace Fire Station 22, on Palm Coast Parkway

“Let them vote or not vote for it. Let them learn how to tighten their belts and stop buying moldy buildings.”

Cimmaron residents push for sidewalk Cimmaron Drive residents on June 22 again appeared before the City Council asking the city to add a sidewalk on Cimmaron Drive, which they said has become congested with a dangerous mix of vehicular and pedestrian traffic as the city has grown.

Over 90 locals signed a petition that was delivered to the city at the June 22 meeting, requesting the installation of a sidewalk along the road’s entire 1.2-mile length.

“Cimmaron Drive serves over 40 side streets that constitute five separate communities,” it states.” This road is essential to access all of these communities and is a gathering point for walkers, runners, riders, cyclists pets and other pedestrian traffic. ... This situation is very unsafe for both pedestrians and drivers, as both are continually having to adjust for the other.”

ED DANKO, city councilman

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REM is the objective calibration of the prescription in your hearing aids. It is how we make sure that the sounds that your hearing aids produce in your ear are appropriate for your hearing loss and that speech is as clear as possible. This calibration optimizes the way your hearing aids sound. We make precise adjustments in the physical and acoustic fit so the sounds coming out of your hearing aids in your ear match your prescription, which are the levels where you will hear the best.

You will be positioned in front of a set of speakers with your hearing aids and a small probe in each ear. Your provider will play a series of calibrated sounds that include all the frequencies of speech, and program the settings in your hearing aids as they measure the output of sound from your aids. Real-ear measurements are important because they measure how a hearing aid’s volume and pitch are affected by your individual ear size and shape. Finally, we make the appropriate adjustments based on your audiogram, the response we see on the computer screen and your feedback.

We also use evidence-based amplification targets to help guide our decisions as to how to set the volume of the hearing

aids. Real-ear measurements allow us to apply the hearing aid fitting to your specific ear.

The result is that your hearing aid settings are accurate for the size and shape of your ear and for your hearing loss.

Our mission is to practice audiology to the gold standard of care, using evidenced-based practice

and protocols; which means we practice audiology based on information and evidence from our audiology research community. The audiology research community continuously publishes peer reviewed studies to help doctors better understand and treat hearing loss. Realear measurements have been proven by the audiology research community as the gold standard for hearing aid fitting verification.

This results in less accuracy and satisfaction with hearing aids for many patients. We use real-ear measurements because our mission is to serve our patients by providing the best care possible.

According to evidence-based practice, the best audiological care cannot be provided without the use of real-ear measurements

Unfortunately, there are many hearing care providers who do not use real-ear measurements in their practice.

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AT OUR FACILITY, OUR PROVIDERS USE REAL EAR MEASURES, OR REM TO PROPERLY FIT YOUR HEARING AIDS.

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PALM COAST OBSERVER

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PalmCoastObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

Palm Coast plans updates to Florida Park Drive The city will also add new landscaping.

BRAD WEST SR. COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER, CITY OF PALM COAST

The city of Palm Coast is excited to share draft designs that are planned to bring enhancements to Florida Park Drive. These updates are intended to bring significant improvements to the aesthetics of the roadway and to calm traffic.

Residents along Florida Park Drive have raised concerns over increased traffic on the road.

In January 2020, city staff met with residents to discuss various options in a neighborhood meeting. The draft design and timeline are a direct result of that meeting

and additional feedback from residents.

The current project plan is expected to have final designs completed by the end of summer 2021. Once designs are approved, the project will go out for bid.

Construction is expected to begin in the early part of 2022, with completion expected near the middle of 2022. The projected cost of the project is $250,000.

Funds will come from the Streets Improvement Fund.

The most notable change will be the addition of two medians to add traffic calming measures.

One will be located to the north between Flinstone Court and Foster Lane. The other will be situated to the south between Fernham Lane and Farragut Drive.

These medians will produce a traffic shift for vehicles on the road, which is intended to slow

traffic. Lanes will be 10 feet wide on either side of the median.

With the addition of these medians, beautification improvements are proposed as well. The enhancements include green groundcover within and alongside the medians, a shift in the sidewalk, trees and screening shrubs, and concrete pads with benches.

“We appreciate the participation and input from residents that have helped bring about this plan,” said Director of Stormwater and Engineering Carl Cote.

“Once completed, we are confident these enhancements will provide the solutions to address resident concerns and be in line with the great quality of life our residents expect.”

The city intends to keep the community updated as the project progresses.

Residents will be able to view detailed project information and follow project progress on the city’s Capital Improvement Projects online map by visiting palmcoastgov.com/maps.

Florida Park Drive residents can expect updates through direct email, including traffic pattern impacts during construction.

Email addresses have been obtained from utility accounts as well as those who have provided contact information to staff.

Residents can also sign up to be included on the list by emailing contact information to communications@palmcoastgov.com.

Stay informed with the latest news and information from the city of Palm Coast by signing up for weekly updates. Visit palmcoastgov.com/government/citymanager/week-in-review to get started.

Matanzas team wins third in state for Project Venture Project Venture is a competition for the state’s High School High Tech programs and challenges students DONNA H. WRIGHT DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT AND MARKETING, THE ABLE TRUST

Matanzas High School took third place in the second-annual Project Venture Business Development Competition. Their project was called Pirate Press, offering a variety of apparel and merchandise with in house or customized vinyl or ink graphics, with the slogan "Yer One Stop Shop."

Project Venture is a competition for the state’s High School High Tech programs and challenges students to develop a business plan proposal and accompanying commercial. This competition allows students to develop and hone their communication, critical thinking and teamwork skills in a workplace related simulation.

This year’s event was presented in part by CareerSource Florida, Florida Department of Education Division of Vocational Rehabili-

tation, and The Batchelor Foundation.

The Florida Department of Vocational Rehabilitation and The Able Trust partners with organizations around the state, including Ability 1st Leon County, District School Board of Madison County, Education Foundation of Lake County, Flagler County Education Foundation and Polk County Public Schools, to provide key services to high school students with disabilities and their families.

During the 2020-2021 school year, the HSHT program served more than 1,000 students with disabilities at 43 sites in 40 counties and achieved a graduation rate of 99% for all participating seniors.

The program has a 77% continuing education rate which they want to see increase every year.

“The Able Trust is excited at the level of participation and quality of projects in this year’s comple-

LET T ERS

Lowe’s past should be disqualifying Dead Editor: Remember when it was a big deal to discover that a candidate for political office may have smoked pot in college?

It bordered on being a scandal with the potential of derailing a campaign.

The times have obviously changed but what exactly represents a disqualifying past is not easy to pin down and is usually in the eyes of the beholder.

However, what has been unearthed about the past of Palm Coast mayoral candidate, Alan Lowe would at any time be disqualifying by any standards and by any beholder.

Are we really considering whether to elect someone who, as a professed sovereign citizen, aligned himself with an FBI defined domestic terrorism threat, publicly renounced his citizenship, claimed to be immune to paying taxes and

PALM COAST

Observer “If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.”

Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944

Publisher / John Walsh, jwalsh@palmcoastobserver.com Executive Editor / Brian McMillan, bmcmillan@ palmcoastobserver.com News Editor / Jonathan Simmons, jonathan@ palmcoastobserver.com Page Designers / Hailey McMillan, Jennifer Edwards Advertising Manager / Jaclyn Centofanti, jaclyn@palmcoastobserver.com Senior Account Manager / Susan Moore, susan@ palmcoastobserver.com Senior Account Manager Hallie Hydrick, hallie@ palmcoastobserver.com Front Desk Associate / Bonnie Hamilton, bonnie@ palmcoastobserver.com Operations Manager / Maureen Walsh, maureen@ palmcoastobserver.com Circulation Manager / David Brooks, david@horizonroad.com

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LETTERS Courtesy photo

Matanzas High School students Sarah Wallace, Jaheim Jordan, Nadia Adkins, Carlos Rivera-Virella, and Mariyah Krug.

tion in spite of covid-related hurdles,” said Joseph D’Souza, state director of High School High Tech. “Our High School High tech students are truly a creative and innovative group, and the Project Venture competition really lets them shine. Participating in High School High Tech is a choice for our students. They are go-getters.”

not subject to U.S. laws, and couldn’t be bothered with the civic duty of voting?

What Alan Lowe stood for and what he publicly documented is the antithesis of patriotism and the foundations our country is based upon. And that is a big deal.

DENISE DIAMOND Palm Coast

Don’t debase our flag while protesting Dear Editor, It’s been a long time since I’ve been moved to write a letter to the editor, but the sights I saw at the corner of A1A and Route 100 appalled me as a civics teacher.

It is perfectly OK to protest.

We have the First Amendment right to peacefully assemble.

However, disrespecting the flag to which I pledge allegiance is definitely not OK. It’s especially not OK if you call

Laurie Sallarulo, chair of the Board of Directors for The Able Trust and president and CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida, added that "the skills and confidence these students gain through the High School High Tech program will undoubtably help them on their journey to college and career.”

yourself a patriot.

Ironically, this debasement of our flag occurred at Veterans Park. Perhaps these protestors need a civics lesson? I’d be glad to provide it.

ANNETTE JONES Palm Coast

Editor’s note: Jones supplied a photo of a protestor holding a sign that framed the U.S. flag between the letters “F” and “K,” followed by “Biden.”

Adding mental health experts is step in right direction for FCSO Dear Editor: It was with great pleasure and gratitude that we, the members of the Flagler County branch of SURJ (Showing up for Racial Justice), learned from your paper of Sheriff Staly’s plan to add to his staff two employees who will respond to juvenile-involved, mental-health-crisis calls.

As specified in your June

11 article entitled “Flagler County awarded $1.2 million Criminal Justice Mental Health and Substance Abuse Reinvestment Grant,” these two new behavioral health positions will be funded by the grant, and the professionals hired to fill them will accompany FCSO deputies on calls that involve youths experiencing mental health crises.

The immediate and deescalating intervention of these behaviorists will ensure not only that the youths in crisis will receive appropriate care and treatment, but also that they will avoid the lifelong denial of opportunities that result from any arrest and imprisonment they might otherwise have endured.

Along with both the issuance of civil citations in lieu of arrests and the reduction of out-of-school suspensions in favor of in-school restorative practices, this strategy of employing mental health professionals to respond to youths

Send letters to editor@ palmcoastobserver.com. The editor may make changes for clarity and length. Include first and last name and city of residence.

Palm Coast Observer, LLC P.O. Box 353850 Palm Coast, 32135 PALMCOASTOBSERVER.COM ©Copyright The Observer Media Group Inc. 2015 All Rights Reserved

in crisis will further reduce the numbers of youths who pass through the so-called “schoolto-prison pipeline” and further expand the numbers who can, with the right treatment and without an arrest record, develop into individuals who are a credit to the community that treated them — and continues to treat them — with respect and humanity.

For securing the funding that allows the county to rescue and recuperate these children, the members of SURJ Flagler express our deepest gratitude to Flagler Cares, the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners, Flagler County Schools, Halifax Health, and the Flagler County Sheriff’s Department.

THE MEMBERS OF SURJ FLAGLER www.surjflagler.com

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

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PalmCoastObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

First responders FDOT to begin talk suicidal girl off work on SR A1A of I-95 overpass rock revetment

Man steals car and leads deputies on a chase

First responders coordinated June 20 to save a suicidal teenage girl who’d climbed out on the Interstate 95/Palm Coast Parkway overpass and was threatening to jump.

The FCSO received a call from a father at about 6 a.m. reporting that his juvenile daughter was threatening selfharm.

When deputies arrived to the overpass bridge of Palm Coast Parkway and I-95, she was holding onto the outside railing facing I-95 southbound, slowly inching her way closer towards the highway.

Deputies shut down Palm Coast Parkway and I-95, rerouting traffic as multiple agencies responded.

Responding deputies were made aware that the girl doesn’t like males and acted quickly to bring a female negotiation team to her rescue.

FCSO Deputy Jenkins was negotiating with the girl when the girl let go of the rail to jump.

Deputy Jenkins immediately grabbed her hand before she could fall, and secured her to the rail with handcuffs.

The rescue team rescued the girl using a fire engine ladder, and DFC Rainey safely brought her to the ground after an hour of negotiations.

“This is an outstanding rescue by all agencies involved,” Sheriff Rick Staly said.

The girl was placed under a Baker Act and transported to Halifax Health. For resources on mental health, visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

A man with a criminal history dating back to 2001 snatched a woman’s car keys, stole her Honda CRV and then led deputies on a car chase on June 19.

The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office had responded to Coral Reef Court about a physical disturbance where the victim reported that a male, later identified as 38-year-old Angelo Walsh, had just fled the scene after battering her and stealing her silver Honda CRV. The incident was captured on a neighbor’s RING video doorbell camera, and showed Walsh first attempting to hotwire another car in the neighboring driveway before approaching the victim and snatching her car keys.

FCSO deputies observed Walsh traveling north on Palm Coast Parkway towards Old Kings Road. Walsh ignored deputies attempts to conduct a traffic stop and instead continued to drive erratically, traveling at speeds of 70 mph and swerving in and out of traffic lanes.

At one point, Walsh drove through a hedge at a CVS parking lot and the Lutheran Church.He later crashed the stolen vehicle into a tree at the Red Roof Inn. Walsh attempted to flee on foot, but gave up when confronted by deputies and was detained. He was then taken to Advent Hospital where he was medically cleared.

Angelo Walsh is being held on no bond with charges including battery on a person over 65, carjacking, burglary and criminal mischief.

Flagler County officials are advising residents that the Florida Department of Transportation will start work Monday, June 21, on State Road A1A in Flagler Beach between South 16th and South 12th streets to reinforce and stabilize the current rock revetment.

The contractor will be adding large boulders to the existing rock revetment footprint. The materials used for the dune stabilization will be native and locally sourced. As part of this project, any dune plantings disturbed will be replanted, according to the notice sent by FDOT. The project is permitted through the Florida Department of Environmental protection and no work will be performed from the beach.

According to FDOT, northbound State Road A1A detours are as follows: n Phase 1 Detour – Northbound S.R. A1A will be detoured at South 17th Street. n Phase 2 Detour – Northbound S.R. A1A will be detoured to South 16th Street. n Phase 3 Detour – Northbound S.R. A1A will be detoured to South 13th Street.

Southbound State Road A1A and all side streets will remain open.Crews will work 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and start on the south end of the project at South 16th Street. Motorists on northbound State Road (S.R.) A1A will be detoured around the work areas using South Central Avenue.

Courtesy photo

Michael Orlando, Tim Telfer, Mike Lagasse, Amanda Gilbert, Robert Detherow, Shannon Nolan.

Financial Services Department on fire as two analysts cross-train Amanda Gilbert and Shannon Nolan have become Certified Wildland Firefighters.

JULIE MURPHY FLAGLER COUNTY PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

The Financial Services Department is on fire, as Financial Analyst Amanda Gilbert and Senior Procurement Analyst Shannon Nolan expand on their burning desire to safeguard Flagler County’s green assets by becoming Certified Wildland Firefighters. The certification issued through the Florida Forest Service allows them to work on prescribed fires.

Prescribed Fire Program Supervisor Michael Orlando was excited to add the new members to the prescribed fire team.

“Their dedication to seek out the necessary training on their own and make their schedules

work while not missing a beat is something to be recognized,” he said. “Prescribed fire in Florida can be a very rigorous task involving long days up to 16 hours with little to no breaks.

But you wouldn’t know it as these two both have smiles on their face the entire time.”

“Our burn team is an incredibly amazing, cohesive, and hard working group of people who are doing great work for the environment, and I am so honored and thankful to be a part of it,” Gilbert said. “They invited us and welcomed us. That encouragement was amplified once we showed that we were truly not only interested, but capable” Using prescribed fire to manage natural resources is part of state law.

would like to thank all of our partners of the 2021 Annual Dinner

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

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MAYORAL ELECTION 2021

Who should be Palm Coast’s next mayor?

SAMPLE BALLOT

JONATHAN SIMMONS NEWS EDITOR

W

ith less than three months between former Mayor Milissa Holland's unexpected resignation and the coming special election to fill her seat, candidates for mayor of Palm Coast have had limited time to tell voters why they're the right fit.

Palm Coast Observer Publisher John Walsh sat down with the candidates for video interviews to explore their views on taxation, economic development, law enforcement and more.

All candidates were invited to participate. Four of the six — David Alfin, Cornelia Downing Manfre, Carol Bacha and Doug Courtney — have done so, and edited transcripts of their interviews are on the following pages. Two candidates, Alan Lowe and Kathy Austrino, declined.

Go to www.palmcoastobserver. com and the Observer's YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/ user/PalmCoastObserver to watch the full interviews.

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Don't swim under the influence.

Wear sunscreen & stay hydrated.

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PALM COAST OBSERVER

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PalmCoastObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

Q+A WITH YOUR MAYORAL CANDIDATES MAYORAL CANDIDATE

Real estate broker David Alfin moved to Palm Coast about 10 years ago from the Mid-Hudson Valley area of New York state. But the mayoral candidate is no newcomer to Florida. Alfin grew up in St. Petersburg.

In his video interview with Palm Coast Observer Publisher John Walsh, Alfin stressed that public service is very important to him: His three sons have all served this nation, as a police detective, an FBI agent and a pilot in the Army.

— BRENT WORONOFF

What makes you qualified to be mayor of Palm Coast? List the top three.

The top three are really very simple. I’ve always had a philosophy that people offer and give you things — whether they be comments, suggestions, material things — throughout your life. If you were to inventory all the things that you have ever received from everyone you would quickly realize that you could never pay it all back. I made a decision prior to moving back to Florida and to Palm Coast that I would engage with the community and offer my service in every way I knew how.

What do you think is the biggest issue facing Palm Coast?

Being able to afford public safety, being able to repair and add new infrastructure, being able to relieve the tax burden, which is

skewed unfavorably against the residential homeowner, are paramount issues.

One of the biggest issues today is the opening at city manager.

Should the City Council enlist the services of a professional HR group experienced in hiring executives or go it alone?

I attended the City Council workshop which addressed that very issue. ... I have great faith in the staff and structure of the city of Palm Coast organization.

I don’t think we need to hire and spend the extra money — which is significant — on a search. I think the real significant piece is that when we locate several candidates that the City Council vet them very carefully.

So, input from staff, but not the end all?

No, not the end all, and equally important is input from residents.

What makes you qualified to be mayor of Palm Coast? Top three qualifications.

I’m an emergency responder. I’m a licensed nurse and I’m trained as an educator who defends the democracy of our republic of America.

CAROL BACHA MAYORAL CANDIDATE

Mayoral candidate Carol Bacha was dressed in a full nun’s habit for her interview with Palm Coast Observer Publisher John Walsh.

Bacha is a nurse, a musician and a nun in the Russian Orthodox Church since 2015. She referred to herself as a “singing nun” and broke into song on occasion, remarking that she wanted to keep it fun.

When asked to close the interview with anything she’d like to share with Palm Coast voters, Bacha belted out her own version of an American classic: “This land is your land. This land is my land. From Palm Coast to Flagler Beach.”

— BRENT WORONOFF

What would you say is the biggest issue facing the city of Palm Coast?

What to do next.

One of the issues that would be brought before our new mayor is hiring our next city manager.

Do you think the city should enlist ... a professional executive-hiring consulting group?

You know when you have the little checkmarks? I accept A. I accept B. Both answers. And if we want to be the vision of what Palm Coast is created to be, we need to create independent volunteer study groups that offer a voice in this decision making.

Do you have anybody in mind now that you feel would serve well as city manager?

… So you ask me question A, question B, and I tell you both.

Question C, because we need to engage our citizens. C is for citizens because the city manager

“I’m an emergency responder. I’m a licensed nurse and I’m trained as an educator who defends the democracy of our republic of America.”

SPECIAL ELECTION 2021

If you’re elected mayor the first item that you’ll be presented is the budget. What is the largest budget you’ve managed?

I have been a president of a public company that had a budget in excess of a $100 million. I’ve also worked for a small family business which had a budget of several million dollars ... but more importantly, here in Palm Coast in my last 10 years I have served as treasurer for organizations like the Women’s Council of Realtors, the Flagler County Education Foundation, the Flagler County Association of Realtors. So, I understand what the budget means here locally.

Would you propose to defund MedNex?

I’m a huge supporter to the MedNex initiative. I wouldn’t confine it just to MedNex, because the MedNex initiative becomes a multiplier of revenue sources and business relocation to our area. So, I am running my campaign very much in favor of moving that initiative forward.

Another item that was recently approved was over $5 million for Phase 1 of the tennis center.

Would you vote to defund the tennis center?

My problem with the tennis center discussion so far is I’ve heard a lot of back and forth among City Council and residents and stake holders. No one has

is the chief.

Personally, what is the largest budget you’ve managed?

The largest budget I’ve managed is so large, that it’s incalculable.

That happened in my political training. I was asked to return to the country that a princess was exiled from. And when I got that call I was the nurse at a hospital in Florida. And at that time I had with me my two children. So the largest budget I’ve managed was to purchase two $2 tickets for my children to go see Santa Clause at Holmes Regional hospital in Melbourne, Florida. And I asked the hospital … I wanted a good deal for a pair of medical gloves and needles because this was the height of the AIDS crisis in Romania. That’s where my princess friend was being asked to return to. ... She was asked to come back to put her stamp on the hospital, Christiana, for children with AIDS, so the hospital Santa administrator gave me what we estimated to be in the area of $3 million when I asked for two $2 tickets for my children to see Santa Clause. Vote for Bacha for mayor and I’ll get your money’s worth and you’ll hear the rest of the story.

Do you feel our taxes in Palm Coast are too high, too low or just right?

Well the value of my house this

DIGGING DEEPER In discussing Palm Coast’s ban on residents parking commercial vehicles in their driveways, David Alfin noted that from a real estate perspective, the city is considered a deed-restricted community.

“We often use that term to describe gated communities or other types of HOA communities, when in fact the city of Palm Coast is a deed-restricted community, which is why those codes are in place — and yes, a buyer should be made well aware of that before they buy a house,” said Alfin.

“That’s a pet peeve I have with my own peers in the real estate business to make sure you educate buyers on what they’re buying into.”

“I’m a fiscal conservative, so fiscal conservancy is sort of my middle name.” stepped forward to offer and an ROI, a return on investment. ...

So, with no ROI in place at this time I think it would be a twopart answer. One, let’s figure out if it brings an ROI that’s acceptable and then, No. 2, decide if it’s a feasible project or not.

The Florida State Chamber is predicting the population of Palm Coast will increase by 20 to 30,000 in the next 5-10 years. Do you think it’s a choice between urban sprawl and high-density housing?

Absolutely not. That’s not the correct way to phrase the future, and let me give you an example.

My daughter just graduated from UCF. On her own volition she

Do you support allowing commercial vehicles including signs to be parked in the driveways after business hours?

... I would be in favor of commercial vehicles to park in driveways provided there were a significant list of requirements on what type of vehicle, what size of vehicle, what condition of vehicle, what kind of permit and on and on and on to be sure that the property owners in that same neighborhood would not suffer any value depreciation.

Is it a normal fee or are we spending too much in this area or are we not investing enough?

DIGGING DEEPER

Carol Bacha has lived in Palm Coast since 2014. She is a strong advocate of educating children through music. She said she knew Fred Rogers and studied with Mr. Rogers’ nephew Dan Crozier, a composer and associate professor in the Department of Music at Rollins College.

She said she moved to Palm Coast “because Flagler County was the only county in the state of Florida supporting youth in the arts and in music.”

“Music is about the way our brain is trained,” she said.

It depends how much hot air you blow into it. Again that has to be examined. ... When I need to answer those kind of questions I need to go to those kind of people who have the professional expertise.

There were two recent transactions approved by our City Council. Would you propose to defund MedNex? Or would you support it as is?

month went up $10,000 from last month. And the month before it went up $9,000 and the month before that it went up 8,000-some dollars … So what is my tax responsibility? Is my tax too low? Is my tax too high? We have to digest what has just happened to our real estate.

Some candidates pledge a line by line audit of the annual budget. How would you know if a number is in line or out of line for that item?

You mean in-line, out of line like roller skates?

Learn more about your candidates.

decided to move back to Palm Coast to start a career. ... Today, it would be very difficult for her to afford a home by herself with a mortgage here in Palm Coast. So, I would seriously look at housing options for someone like my daughter to invest in, buy a home and be here for the long term.

MedNex needs to continue … (but) MedNex can only go forward in my scholarly opinion and in my moral and ethical views if Bethune-Cookman (University) has a seat at the table which is going to be the leading seat.

Another budget item that was recently approved was over $5 million to invest in redevelopment and enhancements at the local tennis center. Would you support that or would you support defunding that?

...What I can understand that has been transmitted by good people like you in the news is that that is an issue where funding of the pickleball is from a special fund, so I would have to know more about that special fund.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

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PALM COAST OBSERVER

PalmCoastObserver.com

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

Q+A WITH YOUR MAYORAL CANDIDATES What makes you qualified to be mayor of Palm Coast? Top three.

Education, background and experience.

What do you think is the biggest issue facing the city of Palm Coast today?

Picking the city manager.

MAYORAL CANDIDATE

Doug Courtney has seen a lot of changes in the 24 years he has lived in Palm Coast.

In his interview with Palm Coast Observer Publisher John Walsh, the mayoral candidate joked, “They stopped rolling up the sidewalks around four years in.”

If elected mayor, Courtney said he hopes he will be remembered after his term for re-envisioning the future of Palm Coast.

— BRENT WORONOFF

“Making a quick decision, not following through, not doing a background check, not inviting people from other organizations and other cities to apply denies the citizens of Palm Coast and denies the city the opportunity to pick the best city manager.”

How should it go? Should we hire a professional consulting firm in the business of executive search, or let the City Council figure it out on its own?

I believe we need executive search. I very strongly do. I appreciate the management people inside the city of Palm Coast and I encourage them to apply as well.

Do you have someone in mind now for that job?

None. I’m totally open on it.

Are our local taxes too high, too low or just right?

... If you want to cut taxes, which everybody wants to cut taxes, I mean what are you going to cut?

Are we going to cut out the services for the arts? Are we going to cut out (some services) for the Sheriff’s department? ... I would like to see the numbers.

Would you propose to defund MedNex?

A new idea to bring in economic development? Doug Courtney says city officials need to begin thinking outside of the box.

“One of the things the pandemic has taught us is remote work works,” he said referencing an article he read about a successful program the city of Bentonville, Arkansas employed. That city provided incentives for high-wage remote workers to move there.

Businesses followed.

“Next thing you know they had small shops opening. The downtown was rebuilt. All of a sudden they had a boom in Bentonville, Arkansas that they never had before,” Courtney said. “I’m not saying that’s the only solution, but maybe it’s a solution to look outside the next unicorn.”

of investment into it. ... I would like to look more desperately into what they’re doing here. This can be a lot of money, not only for the city, but for the services that could be offered to our citizens.

Another big ticket item recently approved is the enhancements to the tennis center. Would you support defunding?

... If the contracts (have been) signed (then) no I’m not going to ask to have it revisited. One of the issues I have is we have been investing a lot of money into large projects. And I’m not saying it’s bad, but what about the neighborhood projects? Why are we not investing more into the neighborhood community parks, which I think we can invest in with a whole lot less money?

Not now. We’ve really got a lot

What makes you qualified to be mayor of Palm Coast, your top three?

I’m a business person of 41 years.

I have a college education from Fordham University in urban studies and French. And I find that after 41 years of business experience in corporate America and being a real estate broker in Florida I have unusual qualifications to be the mayor of this city.

CORNELIA DOWNING MANFRE MAYORAL CANDIDATE

Cornelia Downing Manfre has lived in Palm Coast since 1999, the year the city was incorporated.

In her video interview with Palm Coast Publisher John Walsh, she said as mayor she would like to be an ambassador and negotiator to help bring more businesses and jobs to the city.

— BRENT WORONOFF

What do you think is the biggest issue facing Palm Coast today?

Right now we have a void in leadership at the City Hall. We immediately have to hire an experienced, empathetic city manager. I want someone who has run cities before. And I believe we need the person that is going to come in, believes in establishing customer service and work with the personnel to make our City Hall an approachable City Hall, as we hopefully

DIGGING DEEPER Cornelia Downing Manfre, who raised three children in Palm Coast, all of whom are college graduates, praised the school district and the city’s quality of life.

“Palm Coast is a very special place,” she said. “I think ITT Corp. did an amazing job with the engineering of the city. I’m amazed some days when I go out for a walk or a bike ride on our bikeways; it is stunning. It is a stunning town.”

have companies come here to bring jobs to the city.

Do you think there should be a professional service leading the campaign for a new city manager?

An outside firm would be helpful, because I think we have to look nationally. ... We need someone who can get in here and understand the master plan for this community, and a search company will speed up the process.

Do you have anybody in mind that would serve as city manager today?

Not at this moment, no.

If you’re elected mayor, one of the first issues that you’ll be dealing with is the annual budget. What is the largest budget that you’ve personally managed?

$500 million. I’ve worked with New York Life Insurance in the real estate mortgage loan department where I’ve handled multi-million dollar loans that were for shopping center developers, office building developers, American Express Citibank, UA Theaters. UA Theaters is where I had the largest budget. I covered half the country.

Are our taxes too high, too low or just right?

Observations

Flagler County Sheriff’s Office reports that compared to other communities our size staffing levels are too low by an estimated 40 deputies. Are you satisfied with the current public safety and crime levels?

Who’s satisfied as long as we have crime? That said, I believe our levels right now are better than we could hope. And we could do better. My problem is not so much adding deputies. I think Palm Coast ought to be involved in more of the decision making.

One of my issues is (the sheriff) decides where he is going to put a precinct. We hand him a check, he takes care of it. I think as a city we need to be more involved.

Let’s move on to economic development. Do we have enough retail, commercial and industrial businesses here?

I think they’re a little high at the moment and I’m concerned about the line items of the budget. So I am researching what is composed in our budget for the city. ... The money is coming from pretty much close to 90 percent off of the residential units. We have got to grow our commercial tax base so that we take some of that burden out.

Are there any line-item budget items you think are in question?

The capital expenses are something that I really want to delve into. With the growth … we have to make sure that we have sufficient funds to take care of the infrastructure.

Do you support MedNex as it is or would you support to defund it?

I’m in support of MedNex. I want to know where it stands right now, that’s very important.

I would like to be sure that we hold on to the concept. It will help Town Center and bring jobs that we’re looking for now, and help the commercial tax base.

Another big ticket item recently approved was the tennis center. Would you support the tennis center or would you recommend defunding that?

I would like to study that a little bit more closely. ... For instance, you’ve got a swimming pool that

As we stand right now we got a lot of retail here. We also don’t have enough industrial. We have been searching for the 24 years I have been here for the unicorn that’s going to come in and build a new facility here. ... Maybe it’s time we not abandon that process, but maybe it’s time to take the blinders off and look at a new idea.

What is the role of the city in economic development?

The role of the city is to support economic development. ... I’m also not saying I’m for unregulated growth. Let’s get the business we want.

Part of economic development in some people’s mind is permitting commercial vehicles including signs to be parked in residential driveways after business hours.

Some of this I do believe is a little on the edge of ridiculous. I have a neighbor who works for an electrical company. Every night he comes in with his electrical company truck and he actually has to put a tarp on it. And I’m like, that’s not offending me, just leave the tarp off. Now you bring your dump truck in there, you bring your cab from your 18-wheeler, I’ve got an issue with that. This is something that has to be created within the ordinance itself.

“I’m here since 1999. I’ve seen a lot of changes. Just the layout of this city has expanded and it’s wonderful to watch that.” may be closed, but we have high school people that have to go someplace else to practice. We need more infrastructure that will support the needs of both the seniors and the students here.

Flagler County Sheriff’s Office reports that compared to other communities our size staffing levels is low by an estimated 40 deputies. Would you support hiring more deputies even if it would require a tax increase?

No, on the tax increase. I would study the numbers of the needed deputies. But I question why we need more deputies when the crime rate has decreased, so it’s studying all the variables, but I certainly don’t want to see any tax increases.

Are you in favor of relaxing the city codes that would allow commercial vehicles with signs to park in residential driveways overnight?

I am OK with a certain size of vehicle. Eighteen-wheelers, no.

But the smaller vans, perhaps we can look at what a cover could be for these vans that have to sit in the driveway.

Be sure to SUBSCRIBE

with John Walsh

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DIGGING DEEPER

JUNE 24, 2021

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elcome to Hurricane Tracking 101. With this map, you’ll be able to track the path and progress of tropical storms and hurricanes this season. According to ThoughtCo.com, “it’s a creative way to teach hurricane awareness, learn about storm intensities, and to create and keep your own hurricane records from season to season.”

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MATERIALS NEEDED: Access to the latest tropical storm and hurricane forecasts; a pencil and eraser; colored pencils GETTING STARTED: 1. Monitor the National Hurricane Center for current tropical cyclone activity. Once an invest develops into a tropical depression, subtropical depression, or stronger, it's time to start tracking it.

2. Plot the storm's first position.

3. To do this, find its geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude). (The positive (+) number, or the one followed by the letter "N," is latitude; the negative (-) number, or the one followed by the letter "W," is longitude.) Once you have the coordinates, move your pencil along the right edge of the chart to locate the latitude. Using a ruler to guide your hand in a straight line, move your pencil across horizontally from this point until you find the longitude.

Draw a very small circle at the point where the latitude and longitude meet.

4. Label the storm by either writing its name next to the first plot point, or drawing a small box and writing the storm number inside.

5. Continue to track the storm by plotting its position twice daily, at 12 UTC and 00 UTC. Dots representing the 00 UTC position should be filled in. Dots representing the 12 UTC position should be left unfilled.

6. Label each 12 UTC plot point with the calendar day (i.e., 7 for the 7th).

7. Use a color coded key and your colored pencils to "connect the dots" with the appropriate colors and/or patterns for the types of storms.

8. When the storm dissipates, write its name or storm number (like in step #3 above) next to its final plot point.

SOURCE: WWW.THOUGHTCO.COM

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HURRICANE GUIDE 2021

PALM COAST OBSERVER

PalmCoastObserver.com

Develop a disaster plan

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

13

5 Protect your vehicles Identify where you would store or park your vehicle, boat or RV. Double-check your vehicle insurance policy and keep it in a safe place with your homeowner’s policy.

6

Reduce damage to your home and property Consider installing window shutters, purchasing a generator, trimming trees and double checking tie-down straps and anchors if you live in a mobile/ manufactured home.

disasters Check your 1Discuss as a family 3 Inventory your valuables 4 home for vulnerable areas Have a family meeting to talk about disasters. Children should be encouraged to talk about their fears, and parents should convey the steps they take to keep everyone safe. Together, develop a list of things to take care of in preparing.

Walk around your home and evaluate the roof, windows, garage doors, patio doors, screen enclosed rooms, landscaping, etc., to see what protective measures you need to take if a storm is approaching.

7

Identify special needs

Make arrangements well in advance of a storm to take care of infants, the elderly and those with special needs. Persons with special needs should register for the county’s special needs shelter.

a plan 8 Have for your pets

If you live in a storm surge evacuation area, determine where you would go if an evacuation order were given. It is best to seek shelter at a family member’s or friend’s house or hotel outside the evacuation area. If leaving town, leave well in advance of an approaching storm. Shelters should be used as a last resort.

Make sure you have a plan to address your pet’s needs whether you evacuate or stay in your home. Also, remember to have a plan for large outdoor animals such as horses, cows and pigs.

(See page 15 for more tips about planning for your pets).

Make sure you have a week’s supply of nonperishable food, water and medical items for your family.

10

Share your plan

Let your family, friends and coworkers know of your disaster plan. Make sure they know how to reach you to check on you.

Have an out-of-town family member or friend as a point of contact.

SOURCE: VOLUSIA COUNTY

Be Prepared, Hurricane Season is Here!

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Make evacuation plans

Make a list and also videotape/ photograph items of value.

Insurance policies should be reviewed well in advance of a storm.

Note: Once a hurricane watch has been issued, most insurers will not issue new or additional coverage (this includes flood insurance).

a disaster 9Have supply kit

PALM COAST OBSERVER

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PalmCoastObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

BE PREPARED!

Know your zone

Hurricane season is here!

Flagler County has six evacuation zones and offers multiple shelter options during storms.

JONATHAN SIMMONS NEWS EDITOR

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It’s possible to overdo most things, and hurricane evacuation is no exception: Emergency managers are trying to change the old norm of people evacuating hundreds of miles away, and are instead advising that people who must evacuate head to locations tens of miles away.

Flagler County has six evacuation zones, denoted by the letters A through F. They’re mostly east of Interstate 95, and in floodprone areas that are vulnerable to storm surge. (Go to the interactive map at https://bit.ly/3j4fwLr and click on the “evacuation zones” checkbox on the menu on the right side of the screen.)

People who live in evacuation zones should be prepared to move quickly if local officials issue an evacuation order — and should not feel the need to travel across the state: A sturdy building constructed in about the last 15 years in an area that’s not in an evacuation zone is generally suitable shelter.

With the exception of people who live in manufactured homes, mobile homes or RVs — who must evacuate countywide for hurricanes — people who don’t live in an evacuation zone should evaluate their current shelter and make a decision: If it’s a relatively new home that’s up to code, it’s better to shelter at home than to leave.

SHELTER OPTIONS

The county offers emergency shelters for people who live in evacuation zones and don’t have other places to go. In addition to the regular shelters, special needs shelters and pet-friendly shelters are available.

SPECIAL NEEDS SHELTER

A family member or caregiver should accompany the person with the special medical needs to the shelter, and people with special needs should pre-register, if possible, at www.flaglercounty. org/emergency. Bring at least a five-day supply of medication, in original containers, along with personal items. Only one suitcase is allowed.

PET-FRIENDLY SHELTERS

Flagler County also offers petfriendly shelters. Pets may be housed in an area away from people at the shelter, and people bringing pets must bring government-issued picture ID, proof of residency in an evacuation zone, current medical and vaccination records for each pet, and supplies for themselves and the pet(s), including food, medication, crates/cages and comfort items.

Allowable pets include: dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, rodents or turtles. Up to four pets per household are allowed.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

15

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Accordion Shutters Rolling Shutters can delay your safe evacuation and possibly expose you to traffic tieups, high winds and other unsafe conditions. n Stock an animal emergency supply kit. n All belongings should be marked with identification. n Take first aid and CPR courses and keep the manuals handy.

(The same basic principles apply to animals.) n If you have exotic pets, contact the Florida Fish and Game Commission or a zoological garden in a safe area for assistance with shelter. Supply appropriate housing, food and water.

PEOPLE AND PET SHELTER

Some local shelters have been designated “pet friendly:” Owners and their animals can stay at the same shelter, but will be housed separately.

Bring government-issued picture ID, proof of residency in an evacuation zone, current medical and vaccination records and supplies for each pet. Up to four per household are allowed.

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Disasters are diverse and devastating to everyone involved – including animals. Hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, train derailments and explosions can leave pets helpless and homeless. Planning can save the lives of beloved companion animals and livestock.

Here are tips to help you prepare for a disaster: n Ask dependable friends or relatives who live away from an at-risk area if you and your animal can stay with them during an emergency. n Develop an evacuation plan that includes your animals. Learn which area shelters and motels take companion animals and/or have a designated inland evacuation place. n Identify local boarding kennels that may be able to shelter your pet. Find out who stays on the premises with the animals during emergencies and what provisions have been made if the kennel occupants need to evacuate. n Find out which veterinary clinics have boarding facilities. Check their evacuation procedures. n Stay tuned to your local news media for the safest evacuation routes. n Be prepared to evacuate when advised by local government authorities. Have all supplies, kits, transportation and evacuation plans prepared. Don’t wait until an evacuation order is given to begin your planning. This

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PALM COAST OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

HURRICANE GUIDE

WATCH VS WARNING A WATCH...

is issued when hazardous weather conditions are possible for a given area. Watches will define the potential hazards and the times in which severe weather may occur.

Signing up for emergency alerts ALERTFlagler is a free subscription service that lets you sign up for a variety of emergency notifications.

Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are emergency messages sent by the county, state, or federal governments through WEA enabled mobile phones (check with your mobile phone carrier).

There are three types of WEA: Presidential Alerts, Extreme/Severe Alerts, and Amber Alerts.

There is no need to register for this service; it is based on your current location at the time the alert is sent. There is no cost to receive these alerts.

It is extremely important that

A WARNING...

is issued when hazardous weather has been spotted, detected or is imminent.

Warnings will define the hazard, when it is expected, and where it is likely to impact.

you do not disable the receipt of the Extreme/Severe Alerts, as this is the type of alert used to disseminate Tornado Warnings and Protective Action messages, such as whether to evacuate or shelter in place.

ALERTFlagler is a no-cost, countywide, subscription service that allows you to sign-up for a variety of emergency notifications based upon address(es) that you enroll.

This service allows you to customize your notifications and

choose delivery methods that include phone calls, email, SMS/ Text messages, and even through a downloadable app.

Information on this program can be found at www.FlaglerCounty.org/AlertFlagler or by visiting www.FlaglerCounty.org/ emergency and then selecting ALERTFlagler from the menu, or by calling 386-313- 4200.

In addition to ALERTFlagler, residents of the city of Palm Coast can sign up for ALERTPalmCoast to receive notifica-

tions from the city of Palm Coast and the county.

Residents of the city of Flagler Beach can sign up for ALERTFlaglerBeach to receive emergency notifications from their city.

You may obtain more information on these services by visiting www.PalmCoastGov.com (386-986-2360), www.CityofFlaglerBeach.com (386-517- 2000 x.248) and selecting Emergency Notification.

— FLAGLER COUNTY DISASTER PREPAREDNESS GUIDE

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Sports 21 Business 23

JUNE 24, 2021

IN SYNC

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Michelle Pu

Photos by Michele Meyers

Synchro Belles bound for Junior Olympic Championship MICHELE MEYERS CONTRIBUTING WRITER

T Above: Girls in lift, left to right: Mariia Nosenko and Paityn Lawrence.

Lifters left to right: Molly Anderson and Carlysle Kline.

Paityn Lawrence and Gabi Jordan Spence

he Synchro Belles artistic swim team arrived at the University of Florida June 11 with hair “knoxed” and ready to compete in the 42nd annual Sunshine State Games.

The duet team of Carlysle Kline and Molly Anderson and the Junior Olympic team — which already qualified to compete at the national championship — left the campus with one gold medal each.

The duet captured the wild card and will now perform their routine at the Junior Olympic Championship held in Colorado Springs on June 26 to July 3.

Competitive swimmer Isabella Vasconcellos founded the synchronized swim team 21 years ago and was recognized as the United States Developmental Coach of the Year in 2008. Her daughter, Carolyne Vasconcellos, has since taken over as head coach.

Coach Vasconcellos focuses on developing body awareness in the initial stages of training.

The sport also requires a high level of strength and endurance, which can be daunting for the younger girls.

To avoid the trauma that can be associated with executing rigorous drills while working in, and — a

Part of the routine involves being upside down under water.

Coach Yasmin Daiha

large percentage of time — upside down underwater, she never forces the girls to do anything they are uncomfortable with, allowing them to go at their own pace.

A gradual and consistent introduction to the fundamentals of synchronized swimming and the support of teammates are key elements to an athlete’s success in the sport.

“We would not be able to do this sport if it wasn’t a team sport,” Vasconcellos said. “We never make them do anything they don’t want to do. It’s really encouragement from the girl next to them: They can be sitting there coughing up the water that they were swimming in, but they always stand up, ready for the next one, thanks to that girl.”

After losing an entire season to COVID, the athletes, who were under 15 at the time, participated in virtual workouts and socially distanced practices.

Undeterred by the unusual circumstances, they went on to qualify for the Junior Olympics.

The eight girls qualified to perform in the team event during the championship are: Kayla Palomado, Aryanna DiFatta, Mariia Nosenko, Molly Anderson, Paityn Lawrence, Jordan Spence, Carlysle Kline and Michelle Pu. Emerson Kline will join the eight athletes for their combo event performance.

The combo has multiple routines being executed simultaneously: solo, duet, trio and team.

SUPPORT THE TEAM After missing a year of competition because of COVID-19, Synchro Belles teams won gold medals at the Sunshine State Games and will head to the national championship in Colorado Springs on June 26 to July 3.

To contribute to the Synchro Belles GoFundMe, visit: https:// gofund.me/ cf1c51da

18

PALM COAST OBSERVER

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PalmCoastObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

Plans move forward for new research building at Whitney Laboratory The laboratory hopes to attract visiting scientists and inspire curiosity in up-and-coming STEM investigators.

BRENT FOSTER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience is perfect for studying local biodiversity and advancing biomedical research. Unfortunately, space is limited—if you stopped by for a visit and walked through the different labs, you’d see aquariums filled with zebra fish, tucked away in closet rooms; or glass bowls of sea anemones or worms stacked on the lab benches; or banks of dissection microscopes hugging the walls.

After the difficulties of 2020 — with a global pandemic and the resulting safety protocols and limitations on lab resources — 2021 is looking promising for Whitney Laboratory. With plans to begin construction of a new state-of-the-art facility, the lab is poised to double its research space and expand its capacity to benefit both the scientific community and the folks who live in (and visit) Flagler County.

Plans for the 25,000-squarefoot building were introduced in 2002, while fundraising began in 2013. Since then, lab administrators have raised close to half of the $28.5 million required for the new facility. On the morning of June 2,

Gov. Ron DeSantis approved $16.5 million in this year’s state budget to be allocated towards the construction of the new research building on Whitney’s campus.

“This is the only capital construction money coming to the entire UF campus this year,” Director Mark Martindale said.

“We have met our target (including almost $10M in private gifts), and planning for the building will continue in earnest.”

Martindale and Jessica Long, Whitney Laboratory’s senior director of advancement, recently met with UF campus planning and construction teams over Zoom. UF and Whitney Laboratory administrators will begin interviewing firms and narrow the list to three potential candidates by the middle of this month.

Construction is expected to commence by winter of 2023.

Those who have driven past Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience on State Road A1A may be surprised to learn about what happens behind the “bunker walls” of the research building.

The current facilities are a snapshot of the ’70s—squat and durable enough to withstand a hurricane, but hardly a poster board for aesthetics.

A rendering of the proposed Whitney Lab building

“Our existing building is dilapidated with small rooms, poor lighting, and insufficient airflow,” Martindale said.

The concrete walls may show some crags of old age, but the work done inside those walls is pushing the boundaries of scientific conservation and discovery.

On the banks of the Matanzas Inlet, Whitney Laboratory researchers are engaged in oyster restoration, an initiative that began in 2019 to prevent shoreline erosion and promote local biological diversity.

Technology used by researchers in the Sea Turtle Hospital has contributed to fighting the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Research technicians, graduate students, and post-docs are engaged in scientific research spanning antibiotic discovery,

stem cell biology, and cellular regeneration — all of which lay the groundwork for advancing biomedicine and public health.

With the construction of the new building, Whitney Laboratory administrators and staff are responding to the nation’s demand to inspire and train STEM investigators.

“We’ve waited a long time to get a new building,” Martindale said. “And we’re looking forward to filling it up with more of the best and brightest scientists in the country!”

The new facility will increase the lab space devoted to specialized areas of study like sensory biology and neuroscience, as well as additional environmental conservation research. The building will also include an educational center to attract visitors. One

Courtesy image

key added feature will be a newand-expanded sea turtle hospital, where the public can learn more about local sea turtles.

With the lab’s location tucked between Marineland and the Matanzas Inlet, families visiting the Florida First Coast will be able to swim with dolphins and then walk across the street to Whitney Laboratory’s educational center.

“None of this would be possible without the community’s significant investment in research, education, and conservation on our coast,” Long said. “We’re especially grateful to our local legislators Paul Renner, Cyndi Stevenson, and Sen. Travis Hutson, who have always been supportive of STEM education and research at UF’s Whitney Laboratory.”

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

SHERIFF PRESENTS ‘GREAT KIDS’ AWARDS Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Youth Services Commander Kim Burroughs visited three local schools June 3 to present three exceptional students with awards for being “Great Kids” for the month of May 2021.

“The kids receiving the awards for May are all doing wonderful things throughout our schools and community,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “They’ve shown many leadership qualities, as well as kindness and respect to their teachers and peers.

We want them to know we appreciate their efforts and hope they’ll continue to represent our county in great ways. We are here to help and support their goals in every way possible.”

Brayden Murray is a fourthgrade student at Imagine School Town Center and is a participant in the PAL Run Flagler Race Series. On our first race of the spring series, Brayden showed his integrity by ensuring none of our runners had to run alone. Brayden completed his own race and ran alongside each of our

race finishers for the next few races to provide support and encouragement to get them to finish strong. He exemplifies the personality traits of a “great kid” and great friend.

Grayson Blanchard is a seventh-grade student at Buddy Taylor Middle School. The FCSO recognizes him for maintaining an “A” honor roll in his advanced classes and honoring the responsibility that is required to maintain progress with his schoolwork and individual goals. He is a model Eagle and a model citizen in Flagler County,.

Michael De Beauvoir is a senior at Matanzas High School.

He has taken part in Interact Club with Mr. Deceglie, Book Club with Mr. Keen, and Key Club with Ms. Summerlot. He has participated in the Flagler Beach cleanup and with the food pantry and food distribution. He is also a full-time volunteer during the April blood drive with One Blood and Key Club.

The “Great Kids” award is presented by the sheriff to students who show respect for their peers, help others, work hard in academics and represent themselves, their family and their school with great character.

Courtesy photo

Family members of Brayden Murray, Brayden Murray, SRD Lilavious, Commander Burroughs, Imagine School staff.

TWO UNDERDOGS MAKE IT BIG Everyone loves a good “rags to riches” story. At Flagler Humane Society, we have bunches of them.

Russell was skin and bones the day we met. Although Dobermans are normally strong, confident dogs, Russell was neglected. He lived outside of an abandoned home, several dogs chained around him. He had neurological from starvation. He had heartworm and intestinal parasites. His coat was dull, and his eyes were vacant.

Another dog from the same property was Tony, a small but mighty male Chihuahua that, despite a life of neglect, was very friendly. When Tony was located, he was being kept in a cage in a tiny room of the abandoned house. In his cage was dry food spilled and mixed with feces. He had no water, no bedding. The floor of his cage was wire. He was in the cage 24/7.

The tiny room that he was in had no ventilation. The smell of ammonia was overpowering.

Our eyes burned and throats ached after just spending moments in the room where Tony had been for weeks or months.

In cases like these, we have the legal right to rescue animals, pull them out of the dangerous environment and work to save their lives. Then it’s up to the courts to determine if the pet owner is fit to get their animal(s) back.

As abuse victims are waiting, we often find them loving foster families to care for them.

In Russell’s case, he was lucky enough to make his way

Margaret Fraser

THERAPY HORSE VISITS TUSCAN GARDENS

Residents of the Tuscan Gardens assisted living facility had the pleasure of meeting Dude the therapy horse and his owner Candy Thompson on Sunday, June 13.

into the home and the hearts of two of our favorite volunteers, Tom and Adele.

Within weeks , Russell was a new man. The neurological problems completely subsided.

He is of a perfect weight and has the shiniest of shiny Doberman coats.

Tom and Adele did what many foster parents do: They fell in love. Russell was adopted as soon as the judge ordered that the animals not be returned to their abuser.

Tony was welcomed into the home of Lynn and her canine pack.

Tony made himself at home quickly.

Within the first month of adoption, went on vacation.

Tony and his new mom have a tiny camper. Tony’s first vacation was to the Suwannee River State Park, where he made lots

Russell the Doberman

Tony the Chihuahua

of friends and enjoyed the fresh air.

— AMY WADE-CAROTENUTO

Executive Director, Flagler Humane Society

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alm Coast Little League’s 12-and-under baseball team had a tough loss at a district game on Saturday, June 19, to DeLand at the Indian Trails Sports Complex in Palm Coast.

With only a few errors on the field, the team struggled at the plate: They could not get DeLand’s pitcher out of their heads.

The final score was 12-1 ends, due to the mercy rule.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

“This has been one of my goals since I started coaching football. Flagler impacted me a ton when I was a young man.”

ROBERT PAXIA

Robert Paxia, new FPCHS football coach.

A dream come true

Photo by Brian McMillan

BRENT WORONOFF CONTRIBUTING WRITER

A

fter coaching at six high schools during the past nine years, Robert Paxia thought he had finally found a place where he and his family could put down roots.

But then the vagabond football coach got a chance to come home.

On May 24, Flagler Palm Coast High School hired Paxia to replace Travis Roland as its head football coach.

Paxia graduated from FPC in 2008. He played football for the Bulldogs and won a state weightlifting championship. He met his

Robert Paxia hired to replace Travis Roland as head football coach at Flagler Palm Coast High School

wife at FPC and began his coaching career there while still in college.

Leaving Lakeland Lake Gibson after posting a 22-3 record over the past two seasons was difficult. But returning to FPC? That was a dream come true.

“This has been one of my goals since I started coaching football,” Paxia said in a recent phone interview. “Flagler impacted me a ton when I was a young man.”

Paxia applied for the FPC job after the 2016 season. Instead, the Bulldogs hired Roland, who went on to lead FPC to four straight playoff appearances and an undefeated regular season in 2017.

“Robert had a good shot at the

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job back then,” FPC Athletics Director Steve DeAugustino said.

“Travis just had more experience.”

Ironically, Roland decided to leave FPC in April to take the vacant head coaching job at his own alma mater, Mainland High.

As a senior linebacker, Roland helped lead the Bucs to the Class 5A state championship in 2003.

“When I didn’t get the job in 2016, I figured Travis would be there as long as he wanted to be,” Paxia said. “At that point, I put it out of my mind. I figured I’d find my place and do as good a job as possible.”

WINDING ROAD TO FPC

Paxia played on the offensive line at FPC and won a state weightlifting title in the 238-pound class. After a torn ACL ended Paxia’s freshman season at Webber International University, his high school coach, Steve Allen, convinced him to come back to FPC to coach.

“I learned so much that first spring from Coach Allen and all those guys I played for,” he said.

He was on FPC’s staff for four seasons while completing a bachelor of applied science degree in supervision and management at Daytona State College.

Over the next few years, Robert and his wife, Alexandra, got to know the U-Haul operators in several towns: In 2013, Paxia became offensive coordinator at Brooksville Central. In 2014, he moved to Bradford High as the defensive coordinator. He moved

again the following season to Plant City, where he was the offensive coordinator in 2015 and the head coach in 2016, compiling a 6-3 record.

After losing out on the FPC job that offseason, he became an assistant coach at Villa Rica High outside of Atlanta. After two seasons at the Georgia school, Paxia became head coach at Lake Gibson. In 2019 he led the Braves to an 11-1 record a year after they finished 4-6. Their only loss was in four overtimes to Charlotte in the playoffs. This past season Lake Gibson went 11-2, advancing to the regional finals.

“It’s actually refreshing to see how he grew from four years ago to now,” DeAugustino said.

“Robert always has been goaloriented. He’s always trying to improve.”

HOW MUCH YOU CARE

Paxia’s coaching philosophy is based on building relationships.

“The kids won’t care what you know until they know how much you care,” he said.

His FPC head coaching tenure began on June 7 when the Bulldogs started their summer lifting program. Paxia is retaining Brian Cox as his defensive coordinator. Cox led the program during spring drills.

Paxia doubles as his own offensive coordinator. His Braves led the state in scoring offense in 2020. His offense is heavy in runpass option, he said, adapting to his quarterback’s strengths.

“Our kids are going to be coached well, be physical and have really good film,” he said.

The Paxias have two children, ages 7 and 1. Robert and Alexandra’s parents live in Flagler County, and having all four of their children’s grandparents nearby was the No. 1 factor in their decision to leave Lakeland, he said.

“I had no intention of leaving Lake Gibson,” Paxia said. “But Flagler is home.”

Marianne McNeil 1939-2021 Marianne McNeil, 82, of Palm Coast, FL passed away on Wednesday, June 9, 2021. She was born on May 17, 1939 in Hoboken, NJ, the daughter of Adolph and Anna Tansky. Marianne was a member of Santa Maria Del Mar Catholic Church in Palm Coast.

She is survived by her children: Jill (Paul) Johnson of SC, Jim (Mary) McNeil of NY, Nancy (Darren) Keenan of GA, and Glenn McNeil of FL; 5 grandchildren: Kevin and Austin Johnson, Jessica Stiles, Kristin Puente, and Samantha Domurat; 3 great grandchildren; one sister Dorothy (Chris) Guy-Denman, two brothers: Alan Tansky and Jerry Tansky, one niece Anna (Marc) Guy-Abis, and several nephews.

Besides her parents she was preceded in death by her childhood sweetheart and love of her life, her husband, James J. McNeil Jr. They were happily married for 54 years.

Marianne was an avid quilter and quilted with the group at Cut Up N Sew who taught her the craft. She loved to spend time with them and created many beautiful pieces.

She served on the Board of Friends of A1A, Scenic A1A Pride for many years in her community. Traveling and seeing the country was one of her delights. She loved her family, grandchildren and great grandbabies more than anything and was very close to them. Second to that was Christmas and she spent the year looking forward to it. It was her most favorite time of the year and she will always be with us in spirit at every Christmas gathering. She had a caretaker’s

She loved her family, grandchildren and great grandbabies more than anything and was very close to them. heart and will be greatly missed by all. She leaves behind many wonderful memories to all those that knew her.

May the Lord Bless her and keep her, may He make His face to shine upon her.

She will be cremated and buried with her husband at a future date in Concord, MA.

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PALM COAST OBSERVER

BUSINESS OBSERVER JONATHAN SIMMONS NEWS EDITOR

Many people who work in Flagler County — including earlycareer first responders, teachers and other professionals — are priced out of living here.

But the Flagler County Commission is trying to change that, voting 5-0 on June 21 to pass an ordinance creating a new zoning designation that would let developers build “tiny homes,” “micro-apartments,” pocket neighborhoods, mobile home parks and townhomes.

The zoning designation, called a called a “planned affordable development,” or PAD, would give developers leeway from the typical regulations on home size, lot size and other factors if they meet a set of parameters — including sale and rent caps — to make the homes affordable.

On the advice of county planning board members, the county added a provision that would let developers seek to have those caps waived in exceptional circumstances.

County planning staff will review developers’ applications on a case-by-case basis.

Commissioner Andy Dance called the ordinance a “first step” to making housing in Flagler County more affordable.

The Flagler County Commission had approved the first iteration of the ordinance on June 7, then brought it to the county planning board and Affordable Housing Advisory Committee for suggestions and tweaking before the second County Commission vote on June 21.

The county will review the ordinance after one year, and then again at the five-year mark.

“We’ve, I think, thoroughly vetted this with our Affordable Housing Task Force, with the planning board and staff, and the public,” County Commission Chairman Donald O’Brien said. “... It’s not been taken lightly, and I think we’ve gotten good feedback and made some good changes.”

Jan Reeger, a former Bunnell city commissioner, said that one of her children and one of her grandchildren have left Florida for other states where housing is more affordable.

“I made a prediction in 2008 that my grandchildren would have problems when they tried to find a home, and I was right,” she said.

She supported the ordinance.

Resident Daisy Henry said she also supported the ordinance.

“It’s got some little kinks, but it’s a start,” Henry said.

23

Development, real estate + business news

Student to represent FPC in national challenge Local student Hailey Tucker of Flagler Palm Coast High School recently participated in the annual nonprofit Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship Southeast Youth Entrepreneurship Finals. During the competition, she pitched her business idea, Custom F.C., a shoe business guaranteeing the perfect fit, function and performance through custom designed cleats.

Tucker competed against seven other students from the Southeast and placed as runner-up in the regional competition. She will be representing Flagler Palm Coast High School in the NFTE National Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge in October.

“I wanted to create a way for soccer players to be able to easily and quickly find their next pair of soccer cleats that would fit them perfectly, have the colors they wanted, and the style that they wanted,” Tucker said. “I decided to use this business idea as a possible pitch for my entrepreneurship class.”

NFTE is a global nonprofit that activates the entrepreneurial mindset and builds startup skills in young people from under-resourced communities.

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

Courtesy photo

Hailey Tucker - NFTE Pitch.

Flagler County lawyer launches his own firm Ronald “Ron” Allan Hertel, Jr. announced that he has recently launched his own law firm, Hertel Legal PLLC. The firm is located at 140 S. Atlantic Ave., Suite 201, Ormond Beach, in the former five-story Security First Insurance building.

Hertel graduated from the Florida International University College of Law in 2006, launching his legal career in downtown Miami by litigating complex cases such as cruise line dissolution, multimillion dollar probate/trust litigation, and international shipping disputes.

In 2009, he returned to his hometown of Flagler County along with his wife and first

child to live closer to his aging parents while serving the local community as it evolved and grew. He soon rose to the level of managing partner of the civil litigation department of the largest law firm in Flagler County.

“We officially opened in midMarch and have been busy,” Hertel said. “... We are pleased that we can offer a convenient location to our clients to meet and serve their legal needs.”

Hertel Legal is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 238-9899, or visit www.hertellegal.com/

BIZ BUZZ

County creates new ‘affordable development’ zoning designation

|

Eye-Style Optical opens second location Owners of Eye-Style Optical Jeremy and Jade Jackson have announced that, after operating Eye-Style Optical for over three decades in Flagler County, they have opened a second location in St. Augustine. The family celebrated with a grand opening and trunk show on June 19 at their new office located at 1815 U.S. 1 S. in St. Augustine Eye-Style Optical is a familyowned business started by Jade Jackson’s family in Palm Coast in 1989. Jade is a licensed optician that has been helping the Palm Coast community for over 30 years. The Palm Coast office is located at 1240 Palm Coast Parkway SW. Call 446-4210, or visit eye-styleoptical.com.

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PalmCoastObserver.com

REAL ESTATE

24

PALM COAST OBSERVER

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PalmCoastObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

Top Flagler County transaction: $2.45 million

A

house in Ocean Hammock was the top real estate transaction for the week of May 13-19 in Flagler County in the Multiple Listing Service. Sabrina Bent, of New Orleans, sold 532 Cinnamon Beach Lane to Harbor Blvd. LLC, of Plano, Texas, for $2.45 million. Built in 2007, the house is a 5/5 and has a swimming pool, elevator, dune walk and 5,941 square feet.

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

MAY 13-19

Alvarado, of Kenilworth, New Jersey, for $253,150. Built in 2020, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,500 square feet.

Pine Grove Holiday Builders Inc., of Melbourne, sold 48 Ponce Deleon Drive to Michael Karija, of Palm Coast, for $194,990. Built in 2021, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,284 square feet.

Following is a partial list of other transactions for the week.

Condos Todd and Sara Stewart, of Palm Coast, sold 300 Cinnamon Beach Way, Unit 224, to Robert and Marta Powers, of Fleming Island, for $455,000. Built in 2005, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,682 square feet. It sold in 2017 for $287,000.

Eagle Lakes Thomas and Michele Turecek, of Jacksonville, sold 7 Eagle View Place to Robert and Susan Phillips, of Flagler Beach, for $514,000. Built in 2007, the house is a 5/3.5 and has a swimming pool and 3,147 square feet.

It sold in 2016 for $429,900.

Judith Shine and Joseph Miller II, and Sherry Risch, of St. Augustine, sold 200 Canopy Walk Lane, Unit 242, to Charles and Jeanne Sakowicz, of Palm Coast, for $330,000. Built in 2005, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,377 square feet.

Grand Reserve and Golf Club D.R. Horton Inc. Jacksonville, of St. Johns, sold 68 Birdie Way to David and Linda Pilossof, of Bunnell, for $298,965. Built in 2020, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,799 square feet.

Cypress Knoll Sally and Joseph Boyce, of Wappingers Falls, New York, sold 34 Ellington Drive to Kevin and Linda Deering, of Palm Coast, for $385,000. Built in 1999, the house is a 4/2 and has a swim-

Lehigh Woods Paul Homm and Sokunthea Men, of Palm Coast, sold 78 Rollins Lane to Fadi and Fadia Shahla, of Palm Coast, for $333,000.

Built in 2006, the house is a 5/3 and has 3,322 square feet. It sold in 2015 for $225,000.

Courtesy photo

The top seller features a swimming pool and a dune walk to the beach.

Holiday Builders Inc., of Melbourne, sold 23 Royal Tern Lane to Manuel and Carla Domingues, of Palm Coast, for $206,990. Built in 2021, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,552 square feet.

Matanzas Woods Holiday Builders Inc., of Melbourne, sold 12 Lake Placid Lane to John and Carol Roos, of Palm Coast, for $333,064.

Built in 2020, the house is a 3/2.5 and has 2,709 square feet.

Ocean Hammock Charles and Therese Thompson, of Orlando, sold 24 Ocean Ridge Blvd. S. to David and Diane Lomax, of Palm Coast, for $1,145,000. Built in 2016,

DEVELOPMENT by Amanda Rafkin and Ross Trudeau; 101 High-five sound CROSSWORD SURPRISING Edited by David Steinberg 103 *Easing in 108 Darn, as socks 110 Pour ferret food into a cat’s bowl, say 111 ___ Lingus 112 YouTubers, e.g.

113 *Dramatic disclosure, and what the starred answers’ first words amount to?

117 Thorn’s place 118 Abstains from 119 See 62-Down 120 Chopping tool 121 Triage sites, for short 122 Dr. Mom’s “treatment” 123 Choice words?

©2021 Universal Uclick

ACROSS 1 Blue Devils’ grp.

4 Not trans 7 Touch in a recess game 10 Recede 13 “Possibly” 14 Gallery event 16 Nonstandard nickname for L.A.’s state 18 *What you may say after solving 113-Across 22 Enlisted 23 Pop’s Grande, to fans 24 Sun, in Spanish 25 Role 27 *Very quickly 29 Rental car company

31 Heckler’s shout 32 Name within “Georgiana” 33 Diagnostic scan, briefly 34 For a specialized audience 36 Nocturnal hunter?

38 Uncle in a top hat 39 Purchase 41 Colorfully titled Taylor Swift album 43 *Wrong associated with a green-eyed monster 45 Juul, e.g.

47 Online talk type 48 “The Addams Family” cousin 49 Readily available 50 *Feel sad

54 Truth alternative 55 Oswald’s nickname, perhaps 56 Wildlife area?

57 Projecting window 60 They can be inflated or massaged 64 Enemy 65 *Punch hard, per Muhammad Ali 69 Beer such as Hoptimus Prime, briefly 70 Doing nothing 72 “Hang tight” 73 Stampeding animal in “The Lion King” 74 Person laying asphalt

the house is a 3/3.5 and has a fireplace and 3,450 square feet.

DOWN 1 ___ acids 2 Military trainee 3 Singer-songwriter Lauper 4 The Friendly Ghost 5 Wrath 6 Take badly?

7 French Polynesia’s most populous island 8 Chicken ___ king 9 Succeeds at home plate 10 Food safety concern 11 “Pow!” 12 Radar dot 13 Actress who originated the role of Elphaba in “Wicked” 15 Leave in the lurch 17 Seriously stuck 18 Ancient Aegean region 76 Construct 19 “Yummy in my ___!”

78 *Skimpy beach attire 20 Group of brewers?

81 Point of church?

21 “Cool,” in the ‘60s 83 ___ guzzler 22 Lively dances 85 Alyssa Naeher’s national 26 Broadway award team 28 Certain Duraflame products 86 Optimist’s mantra 30 As yet 87 *Gazing upon 35 Winter hrs. in K.C. 89 CPR pro 37 Actress ___ Elise Goldsberry 90 Six-pack muscles 39 Sinks one’s teeth into 91 Opening 40 “How disgusting!”

94 Analyze, as a sentence 42 End of a college URL 95 Hosiery material 44 Chicago airport 97 Brain wave readout 46 “Space Jam” FX (Abbr.)

47 Steak named for a part 99 Pre-A.D. you don’t eat 100 Bouncer’s concern 48 Feels fine

Palm Coast Plantation Lucia Fourson-McCarthy, of Estero, sold 232 Riverwalk Drive S. to Joe and Natalia Hundley, of Palm Coast, for $530,000. Built in 2020, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,500 square feet.

Palm Harbor Robert and Janice Oehl, of Orlando, sold 40 Franciscan Lane to Ruth Thornal, of Palm Coast, for $425,000. Built in 1995, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace, swimming pool and 2,562 square feet.

RH Asset Holdings LLC, of Orlando, sold 47 Freeland Lane to Aidyl Ramirez and Luis 50 L.A. area’s ___ Stadium 51 Polo competitor 52 Online-only publication 53 Decree 54 Remove coding errors from 58 Sign up 59 Biblical food hidden in “human nature” 61 Supplying a bank?

62 With 119-Across, like most sandals 63 Garment that may be draped nivi style 66 Arcade coin 67 Not as much 68 Long poems 71 Qatari leaders 75 Letters before an alias 77 First zodiac sign 79 Alcohol left out of a virgin daiquiri 80 Something to drool over?

81 Actors’ platforms 82 Back-to-school night attendees 83 Movement with a rainbow flag 84 Ga. airport 87 ___ musubi (Hawaiian snack made with canned meat) 88 Knot on a tree 89 Comes in 90 “Just ___” (No Doubt song) 92 Squirrel’s nut 93 Church seats 96 Midwestern tribe members 98 “... and so on, and so on” 102 “I’ll handle it” 104 “All Boys ___ Blue” (George M. Johnson memoir) 105 “Awesome!”

106 Everglades beast, informally 107 0Teens’ rooms, stereotypically 109 It’s unlimited on some phone plans 114 “Toy Story” dinosaur 115 Negative connector 116 Stereo knob (Abbr.)

Sawmill Creek Holiday Builders Inc., of Melbourne, sold 8 Ridge Road to Bobie and Glenda Jones, of Palm Coast, for $304,990. Built in 2020, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,885 square feet.

Seminole Woods Michael and Krystyna Aslin, Mark Aslin and Philip Aslin, of Malaga, Spain, sold 91 Selma Trail to Joshua Casanova, of Palm Coast, for $260,000.

Built in 2005, the house is a 3/2.5 and has 2,116 square feet.

RH Asset Holdings LLC, of Orlando, sold 46 Slipper Trail to Lauren Totten, of Palm Coast, for $227,400. Built in 2020, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,500 square feet.

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

CELEBRITY CIPHER

By Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present.

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“ZN DB, AT FNW XNEB AZ BRNWVC ZN IBENZB FNWY XATB ZN AZ, ZCBR FNW’YB INARV ZCB YAVCZ ZCARV.” SYAH SYAHZNTTBYHNR

“HK’C NPAS BLCHBU KZ VJLX CPVVZUKHTW UZJBC FBALPCB KSLK’C OSLK H GZ HT NX JHDB: H CPVVZUK NX CZT.” DULTABC NAGZUNLTG Puzzle Two Clue: O equals W

ming pool and 1,912 square feet.

It sold in 2014 for $235,000.

Puzzle One Clue D equals M

REAL ESTATE EDITOR

WAYNE GRANT

© 2021 NEA, Inc.

SUDOKU

Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.

©2021 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

06-24-21

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

RED PAGES INFORMATION & RATES: 386-447-9723

The Palm Coast Observer reserves the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only. *All ads are subject to the approval of the Publisher. *It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in the Palm Coast Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with towncodes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.

Announcements

MAGNAVOX 52” television with remote, good condition $100 386-437-3441

GUN SHOW THIS WEEKEND!

SOLAR POOL Cover, 12 x 24 ft. brand new, $100 386-447-2876

SELL YOUR STUFF

GARAGE

SALE

Advertise as low as $17.50 per week!

386-447-9723

PalmCoastObserver.com/RedPages TREADMILL MADE by Proform, excellent condition $149 386-682-9609 TRIKE MIAMI Sun, wide seat and basket, rust on rims $80 386-206-9006

stuff

WOMEN’S 26” bike with comfortable seat, 10 speed, Ormond $39 305-216-8533 WREBBIT 3-D jigsaw puzzles, Notre Dame, Taj Mahal, and more, 1,000 pieces. $25 each, baseball paperbacks $1 ea.

386-597-7865

Announcements BUYING FLORIDA Landscape Art for Cash, oil or watercolors, originals only-no prints please Text or call 386-931-4056

BRONZE CORNER metal wall unit, 4 shelves, 78”Hx39”W $120 413-441-4358 BUDWEISER STEINS $5 each, beer memoriblia best offer 386-767-5810 CLASSIC LIVING 5 piece Bridge card table and chairs set, still in box $40, collectible German Beer Steins $30 and up 386-445-6533 DARK WOOD table and pine chairs, $85, Ormond Beach 386-451-9135 HANDICAP SHOWER chair $10 sideboard $7, commode $10, walker $10, choice of 3 wheelchairs $20 each 386-864-1381 LARGE ANTIQUE couch, brown and gold, excellent condition $100 386-445-6198

Concealed Weapons Classes $50 Admission $8.00 12-under free Active Duty Law Enforcement, Military and Firefighters are always FREE Free Parking

$1.00 OFF WITH THIS AD! Follow us on Facebook or on the web usagunshows.com 863-344-0452

NOTICE UNDER Fictitious Name Law Pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of The Azure of Palm Coast, located at 144 Cypress Point Parkway, in the County of Flagler, in the City of Palm Coast, Florida 32164 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, FL. Dated at Palm Coast, Florida, this 16th day of June, 2021 NXC Palm Coast Operator, LLC

Items Under $200 ALUMINUM WHEELCHAIR ramp, $75. Care giver supplies, $5 and up. 386-445-0600

June 26th & 27th Saturday 9am-5pm Sunday 9am-3pm Palm Coast Readiness Center 100 Airport Executive Drive Palm Coast, Florida

EFFECTIVE JUNE 18, 2021 Angela Busch-Doble, DO will leave AdventHealth Medical Group Family Medicine at Palm Coast at 61 Memorial Medical Parkway, Suite 3808, Palm Coast, FL. 32164. Records remain on file and patients should have received communication regarding transition of care. If you are a patient and did not receive communication or have additional questions, please contact our office at 386-586-1880.

FLAGLER COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY Pop Up Book Sale June 25th 9:30 am-1:00 pm 2500 Palm Coast Pkwy NW, Children's/Young Adult Books Fiction/Non-Fiction Books Audiobooks, CD's and DVD's. Come join us and bring a bag or two to fill up!

See you there!

Dated at Palm Coast, Florida, this 17th day of June, 2021 Frank Cardinale

Garage/ Moving/ Estate Sales 10 LYNBROOK Drive, 6/25 & 6/26, 10am-5pm, awesome salt and pepper collection, over 800 sets available.

232 PINE GROVE DRIVE 6/24, 6/25 & 6/26 8am-4pm, Estate Sale! Everything must go!

Autos for Sale 2014 GMC Acadia SUV, 28,600 miles, best offer 386-276-1341 Advertise your business or service in the Observer

RED PAGES

29 WOODWARD LANE, 6/25 & 6/26, 8am-3pm Moving sale, construction tools, furniture, NASCAR memoribilia, patio furniture, much much more and everything must go!

CALL TODAY 386-447-9723

Help Wanted

FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!

PART-TIME ADMINISTRATOR for small ALF in Flagler County $15-$20/hour Also, business is for sale or lease. Owner retiring.

Call or text 386-569-1395 or email jepronesti@gmail.com

Help Wanted 386-447-9723 PalmCoastObserver.com/RedPages

7 WEISS Place 6/25 & 6/26, 8am-2pm, lots of furniture, lawn equipment, household items GARAGE SALE Saturday June 26, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM 5 Eastbury Place, Palm Coast Office Chair, Vintage Dolls, Pysanky Eggs, Precious Moments Figurines, Household Items, Books, Clothes

CARE GIVER NEEDED for small ALF in Palm Coast Full or part time Start $9/hour Call or text 386-569-1395 or email jepronesti@gmail.com

SELL IT FAST HERE! POST YOUR AD WITH EASE

SELL STUFF HERE!

PalmCoastObserver.com/RedPages

HANDYMAN AND HOUSEKEEPER Spanish speaking ok Free room and board plus small salary Drug and alcohol free Call or text 386-569-1395 or jepronesti@gmail.com

RESTAURANT SERVERS needed, part time for private social club in Palm Coast.

Please apply in person, Tuesday or Friday 9-3.

Italian American Social Club 45 Old Kings Road North 386-445-1893

PalmCoastObserver.com/RedPages

This week’s Crossword answers

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers

Puzzle One Solution: “To me, if you love it enough to devote your life to it, then you’re doing the right thing.”

Kris Kristofferson Puzzle Two Solution: “It’s much easier to play supporting roles because that’s what I do in my life: I support my son.”

Frances McDormand

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2021 Universal Uclick

©2021 NEA, Inc.

P. BUCKLEY Moss 8x10 pen & ink signed, numbered, matted & framed $60 (386) 627-8716

You’re only cheating yourself.

Deadline for classifi fie ed advertising in the July 8th issue will be due on FRIDAY, July 2nd a t n oon .

Items Under $200

peekers’ place

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING EARLY DEADLINE The Observer will be closed on Monday, July 5th in observance of the 4th of July holiday.

auto

Service Directory - Friday at 3PM • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card

jobs

DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at Noon

NOTICE UNDER Fictitious Name Law Pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of WB/Wire Benders Orthodontic Lab, located at 21 Lloshire Path, in the County of Flagler, in the City of Palm Coast, Florida 32164 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, FL.

We’ll SWEEP you off your feet!

Announcements

redpages@palmcoastobserver.com palmcoastobserver.com/redpages

PALM COAST OBSERVER

|

PalmCoastObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

real estate

Condos/Apts.

Adult Care Handyman for Rent Services

Cleaning

GENTLE CARE ASSISTED LIVING In business for 20 years.

Room for Rent

Opening for your loved one.

Daily, weekly, monthly rates.

Starts at $100/day. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

TIRED OF COMING HOME TO A MESSY HOUSE? NEED YOUR ROOMS/CLOSETS ORGANIZED?

I WILL MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER SO YOU CAN ENJOY YOUR DAY!

CLEANING SERVICES SINCE 2003

Small to Large - ANY Detailed Job is Available!

Now Offering Room & Area Rug Carpet Cleaning!

Free Estimates All Supplies Furnished 10% OFF 1st Cleaning

Call or text Emma, 386-569-1399 or email jepronesti@gmail.com

Cleaning

Carpet/Tile

MARYANN’S HOME Cleaning Personalized Service Monthly Appointments Available Free Estimates Upon Request 386-276-1899

ELIZABETH JONES Cleaning Service now offering room and area rug carpet cleaning.

386-569-6151.

Auto Service

Residential/Commercial Licensed

References available

Call: 386-569-6151

LIC#10635

Call or text 386-569-1395 or email jepronesti@gmail.com

FIREPLACE SPECIALIST & MORE!

ELIZABETH JONES

2 BEDROOM 2 bath in Ormond Beach, desirable area convenient to shopping.

386-529-4846

PRIVATE ROOM FOR RENT in fully furnished house. $1,000/month Background check a must.

Drug and alcohol free.

Home Services

GARAGE SALE

As low as $17.50 per week!

359647

26

-New Fireplaces and Re-facing -Chimney cleaning -Replacement screens -Rain caps -Damper and Firebox repairs -Inspections -Custom stone and brick -Mailboxes -Firepits -Walkways -Waterfalls -Patios -BBQ’s

Home Services

Bonanno Masonry 386.503.8460

HANDYMAN-HOME MAINTENANCE Give your home the attention it deserves (847) 560-0136

CLEAN OUT YOUR GARAGE!

386-447-9723

CALL 386-447-9723

Concrete

Doors

PAVERSTRAVERTINEANDMORE.COM

MINAMI GARAGE DOORS ELECTRIC DOOR OPENERS

Complete Installation • Repairs • Free Estimates

359648

(386) 793-0055

CERTIFIED COLLISION REPAIR SHOP 410 N. Railroad Ave, Bunnell, FL 32110

24 Emergency Service 359651

NEW CONCRETE OR CONCRETE REPAIR

Barber

Financial Services

Quality Work at Affordable Prices S & D Construction and Maintenance, Inc.

Concrete • Pavers • Travertine Fire Pits • and More

17 Old Kings Road North Palm Coast, FL 32137

PLEASE SIGN YOUR PROOF AND COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

386.446.1566

Approved as shown / No Changes or Corrections Need to see a Revised Proof

Approved with Changes / This is my Final Proof

Client Signature

Date

Owner Dominic DiGirolamo

sdcminc@gmail.com 5054 N. Ocean Shore Blvd. Palm Coast

Contact:

Marty Lewis CELL: 904-540-5522 Email: marty.lewis@moneypages.com

Size: TH Designer: Chase Created: 00/00/00

REVISED DATE

Licensed & Insured

10/3/19

Doors

336409 359101

If a SIGNED APPROVED PROOF has not been received by 9/25/19, the ad will be printed as shown.

Blinds/Window Treatments

(386) 210-9500 gmiddleton@wealthcrest.com Securities products offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer. Member FINRA/ SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through WealthCrest Financial Services, LLC is not a subsidiary or control affiliate of Cambridge.

FC 10796

This ad is property of Money Pages and may not be reproduced in any other publication.

Small Business Retirement Plans SIMPLE, SEP, IRAs and 401(k)s

386-446-1655

No Appointment Necessary

Monday 8am-7pm - Tuesday-Friday 8am-5pm Mon.-Fri. 8-5 • PROOF Saturday 9-1 Zones: PC OCTOBER 2019 Saturday & Sunday - Closed

359405

Voted Best Around 5 Years in a Row

Please review this ad carefully. Specify corrections and/or changes here and fax back to Money Pages within 2 Days of the REVISED DATE. There is no charge to correct typographical errors or to make revisions to your initial proof. A charge of $60 PER PROOF will apply beginning with your 3rd Proof.

354826

386-437-0041

Helping to set up retirement plans for the self-employed and for small business owners

WealthCrest Financial Services, LLC

85 Avenue de la Mer, Suite 706, Palm Coast, FL 32137

359652

Serving Palm Coast for over 20 years

Made for where you live. Here!

B UDGE T BLINDS

RED PAGES

Call now for your free in-home consultation!

Get G et 330% 0% OFF OFF

LICENSE # FC11803 / # GAR13041803

386-446-1191 386-446-1191 BudgetBlinds.com BudgetBlinds.com

PalmCoastObserver.com/RedPages

BUDGET BLINDS BUDGET BLINDS ofofPalm Coast Palm Coast

359649

359770

Blinds • Shutters • Shades Drapes • Home Automation

Health

s d i o D o or s u t sS e

ag

A

Ga tkin r

CREATE BUZZ!

DIGITAL OFFER

A DIGITAL OFFER WILL BE INCLUDED ON THE MONEY PAGES APP

Advertise your business or services in the Red Pages.

IF APPLICABLE.

See your Multimedia Specialist for more details.

“God Bless You”

RED PAGES. MADE FOR WHERE YOU LIVE. HERE! TO ADVERTISE CALL 386-447-9723 OR VISIT PALMCOASTOBSERVER.COM/REDPAGES

359653

WE CHOMP HIGH PRICES!

358637

www.moneypages.com

Call 386-447-9723 PalmCoastObserver.com/RedPages

Errors missed by you on this proof will not release you from any liabilities to Money Pages. Color is not guaranteed.

PALM COAST OBSERVER

PalmCoastObserver.com

Home Services

Plumbing

|

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

27

Roofing

Roof Leaking?

“Specialist In Hard to Find Leaks” Shingle | Tile | Metal | Flat | Re-Roof Structural Repair | Skylights

TERRY’S PLUMBING

Insurance CALL for a Quote CALL & forAsk a About Quote Money & Ask Saving About Money Discounts!

Saving Discounts!

Auto • HomeInsurance • Condo • Motorcycle • Flood • Renters All Counties Agency All Counties Insurance Agency RV • Boat • Commercial Auto • Property & Traffic School 99 Old Kings Rd. S. Suite 3 & Traffic School Winn-Dixie Shopping Plaza - Route 100

439-3191 386-445-3305 386-

Fast, Reliable Service

Central Plaza Florida Retina Winn-Dixie Shopping - Route 100Center www.aciaonline.com Phone 386-439-9254 www.aciaonline.com

Phone 386-439-9254 www.aciaonline.com Phone 386-439-9254

2 Generations Family Owned & Operated

Deanna Kershner

LIC#CCC1331086

Insurance Inspections Available Reliable Prompt Service

State Certified License CCC1325974

WE SPECIALIZE IN INSURANCE CLAIMS • TILE • SHINGLE • METAL • FLAT ROOFS • RE-ROOFS • NEW ROOFS • ROOF REPAIRS • 10-YEAR LABOR WARRANTY • NO DEPOSIT • NO PRE-PAYMENTS • 5 STAR BBB-RATING

Call Rick

386-585-5160

386.931.3414

EAD CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE

AD0414151522 (100%) Lawn Care AD0414151522 ER: ALL COUNTIES INSURANCE(100%) A PROOF CREATED AT: 4/20/2016 9:35:47 AM

We guarantee Quality *Best Quality* 100% Guaranteed

FloridasBestRoofing@gmail.com | www.FloridasBestRoofing.us 359406

Independent Licensed Agent

OF O.K. BY:___________________________ O.K. WITH CORRECTIONS BY:________________________ OF O.K. BY:___________________________ O.K. WITH CORRECTIONS BY:________________________ Deanna.Kershner@yahoo.com EAD CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE

(386) 263-7906 FREE ESTIMATES

LICENSED & INSURED

Remodeling/Home Improvement

PROOF DUE: 04/22/16 13:59:55

PROPERTY PRESERVATION

Lawn Care 217-622-2667

KASTLE K EEPERS HANDYMAN SERVICES THE TO DO LIST EXPERT

(386)

Palm Coast

359102

LICENSED AND FULLY INSURED

PRESSURE CLEANING INTERIOR/EXTERIOR PAINTING CEILING FANS LIGHT & SINK FIXTURES PF-0000987082-01

386.931.4614

846-4580 TOILET REPAIRS SCREENS DRYER VENT CLEANING REPAIR CLOGGED DRAIN

Licensed & Insured

info@sckroofing.com • SCKRoofing.com RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL ROOFING

Locally Owned and Operated 20+ years

712 South Oceanshore Blvd.

Flagler Beach, Florida 32136

MAKING YOUR ROOF, WEATHERPROOF! 358427

Retail

Painting

359400

PROOF CREATED 4/20/2016 9:35:47 AM NEXT RUN DATE: AT: 04/21/16 NEXT RUN DATE: 04/21/16 PROOF DUE: 04/22/16 13:59:55

359105

.75 SPEC ON: ON: SPEC

359402

• New Roofs • Replacements • Repairs • FREE Estimates • FREE Roof Inspections & Minor Repairs

Houses · Driveways · Pool Enclosures Siding · Concrete Licensed/Insured & Reliable

HMO • PPO • SUPPLEMENTS PART D • DENTAL

359656

Residential Roofing Specialist

Any Job, Big and Small We do them all

Rick's Power Washing

Helping You Select the Medicare Plan That is Right For You!

ER: ALL PF701 COUNTIES INSURANCE A RSON: RSON: PF701 .75

386-328-5359

359660

Medicare Plan Options

OR OST NO C ATION OBLIG

Of Flagler County

Serving Flagler County for over 30 years

Power Washing

PF-SPAD0414151522

PF-SPAD0414151522 PF-SPAD0414151522

EZ Roofing Inc.

359658

Licensed • Insured Master Plumber CFC1426001

CBC ROOFING COMPANY Building Customers For Life!

For All Your Plumbing Needs

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE PERSONALIZED INSURANCE QUOTE.

359655

State Licensed | Insured CCC1328252 | CBC1254280

359104

359107

359654

386.677.9265

SHINGLES TILE METAL

NEW ROOF WE OFFER RE-ROOF FINANCING REPAIRS

OFFICE@SKYLINED-ROOFING.COM

LICENSED & INSURED LIC# CCC1331325

386-517-3768

359103

359106

GROW YOUR BUSINESS

We seal cracks & holes

A1 • State Certified Roofing & State Certified General Contracting.

• Pres. Brian Mullen building locally in O.K. WITH CORRECTIONS Flagler County since 1976 • Licensed, Bonded & Insured

CALL BRIAN 386-385-8504

fivestar386@gmail.com • www.fivestarroofingSVC.com (100%) CGC049971, CCC330417, CPC048249

ADVERTISER: KASTLE KEEPERS

PROOF CREATED AT: 3/26/2020 4:30:29 PM

SALES PERSON: PF705

NEXT RUN DATE: 04/01/20

SIZE: 2X1.9

PROOF DUE: 03/31/20 07:59:55

PUBLICATION: PF-FL PENNYSAVER

ee Experts LL r T A C

"Quality You Can Count On"

• Roof Replacement and Insurance Experts • Estimates and Inspections Serving FlaglerPROOF County Since 1987 BY:___________________________ O.K. • High Wind shingles / All types Free Estimates of roofing Licensed & Insured PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE

PF-0000987082-01 RED PAGES Bring Results | 386-447-9723

Trees

Proper pruning and removal of trees Safely working over houses is our specialty BY:________________________ 27 years experience Rick Crouse, owner Licensed and Insured

Arborist Office: 386-264-6281 Cell: 904-669-7743

Visit RED PAGES at PalmCoastObserver.com/RedPages

359661

386-445-6198

Roofing

359659

WE PAINT HOUSES, POOL DECKS, DRIVEWAYS & DOCKS

359657

Visa/MC/Amex/Discover

WITH THE RED PAGES

Call to reserve your ad space: 386-447-9723

PALM COAST OBSERVER

|

PalmCoastObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICE IMMEDIATE DISPOSAL SALE OF 500 BANK VEHICLES

PAY ONLY ONE DOLLAR DOWN And Take Over Payments From

THE BANK!

2 DAYS ONLY

THIS FRIDAY & SA TURDAY

Palm Coast Ford has over 500 vehicles on their lot to dispose of immediately! All you have to do is pay one dollar down (to make it legal) and take over the payments directly from the bank. These are Brand New Ford vehicles plus over 300 Pre-Owned vehicles, brought here courtesy of the bank that Palm Coast Ford has been contracted with to sell immediately.

ONE DOLLAR DOWN IS ALL YOU PAY TO TAKE OVER THE PAYMENTS FROM THE BANK! Do you want a $129 payment with $1 down? Do you want a $150 payment with $1 down? Do you want a $199 payment with $1 down?

Pick the vehicle that fits your budget!

The bank owns these cars, trucks and vans - Palm Coast Ford is the site that have selected to sell them. Remember, THESE ARE NOT BANK REPOS! These are brand new and preowned vehicles shipped here from around the country, made possible by the bank, to dispose of immediately! Bring ONE DOLLAR for the bank and bring your trade to our store!

All prices on new or pre-owned vehicles are plus tax, tag and $899 dealer fee.

Palm Coast Ford 1150 Palm Coast Pkwy, SW Palm Coast, FL 32137 - (386) 447-3380

Visit Us Online at: PalmCoastFord.com

331450-1

IS THE EXCLUSIVE DEALER IN THE COUNTY FOR THIS EVENT! 359000-1

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