PORT ORANGE
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DUCK DERBY PAGE 3 FREE
VOLUME 5, NO. 3
RAPTOR vs. songbird
YOUR TOWN VOLUNTEER HERE
The Volunteers in Police Services, otherwise known as V.I.P.S., are looking to the community for more volunteers. Those who join this program will be trained in various areas of police operations, including city patrols, fingerprinting, house watches, special events, records and traffic. Uniforms will be assigned to each individual at no cost. Visit www.port-orange.org, then click on “Public Safety,” “Police Department,” and download VIPS application) or stop by Police Headquarters.
Osprey
THOMPSON PUMP HONORED
PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID DAYTONA BCH FL PERMIT #447
Thompson Pump and Manufacturing Co., one of the nation’s leading manufacturers of heavy-duty portable bypass and dewatering pumps, is honored to be named a 2021 Cigna Well-Being Award recipient for creating a healthy place to work and do business. This year, Thompson Pump’s wellness committee created a walking challenge during the first quarter, rewarding everyone who achieved 10,000 steps per day in a week; in the second quarter, everyone was encouraged to complete four videos about the importance of stretching, relaxing and meditating; during the third quarter everyone was given a copy of the book “Who Moved My Cheese?” by Dr. Spencer Johnson; to wrap up the year, Thompson Pump is doing a Fitbit walking challenge of 10,000 steps per day; it also donated $75 for the first 50 Fitbits. Thompson Pump has also been putting out fruit for everyone to enjoy on Fridays and sending out newsletters each month full of healthy tips. “The health and well-being of everyone who works here is a top priority for us,” said Chris Thompson, president. “Happy and healthy employees are vital to our success and the relationship between productive, satisfied teams and business performance.”
JONATHAN SIMMONS NEWS EDITOR
T
he mockingbird — Mimus polyglottos, meaning the mimic of many languages — has been Florida’s state bird since 1927. But the mockingbird is also the state bird of Texas, Tennessee, Arkansas and Mississippi. Is it really the right bird for Florida? A proposal to remove the mockingbird as the state bird was offered by Sen. Jeff Brandes, a Republican from St. Petersburg, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is reopening the debate on who should be the state’s avian representative, offering a new alternative: the osprey, Pandion haliaetus, also known as the fish hawk. But given a choice between the mockingbird and the osprey, the choice for some local birders is clear: Neither. Flagler Audubon President Jason Giraulo said his chapter members tend to favor making the Florida scrub-jay — the only bird that lives exclusively in Florida — Florida’s state bird. It’s an idea also favored by two legislators, Sen. Tina Polsky (D- Boca Raton) and Rep.
• NOVEMBER 2021
Sam Killebrew (R-Winter Haven). “Both times over the past two decades, the scrub-jay has been suggested, and for some reason or another, was always shot down,” Giraulo said. He suspects developers, in particular, may not be enthusiastic about making the state bird a species that’s been decimated by development. When Giraulo started birding in Flagler eight years ago, he said, birders knew of three scrub-jays remaining in Flagler; now, as far as they know, there are none. Using the scrub-jay as the state bird would have the benefit of making Florida’s state bird unique, Giraulo noted. But when the switch to the scrub-jay had been proposed in the ‘90s, the mockingbird had also earned an enthusiastic supporter in the person of Marion Hammer, a lobbyist for the National Rifle Association. Hammer’s backing of the mockingbird helped kill the campaign for the scrub-jay, said Halifax River Audubon President and Conservation Chair David Hartgrove.
Florida legislators propose replacing the mockingbird with the osprey as the state bird
Mockingbird
But the osprey, like the mockingbird, is found nationwide; other species of osprey are found on all continents except Antarctica. And, Giraulo said, ospreys don’t really scream “Florida” — not nearly as much as, say, the state pie (key lime) or the state flower (the orange blossom). For that purpose, something like the flamingo might be a better pick, he said. Hartgrove agreed. “Personally, I would prefer to see a bird that’s suffered population declines and is an iconic, easily identified species, like the roseate spoonbill, become our state bird,” Hartgrove said. When the FWC put the question of the state bird before 77,000 elementary- and middle-schoolers in 2008, there had been a clear winner — the osprey.
THE COMPETITORS HABITAT: Mockingbird: Open areas like fields and parks, edges of forests, suburbs Osprey: Coastal areas, rivers and lakes, swamps DIET: Mockingbird: Insects, berries, seeds, fruit Osprey: Overwhelmingly fish, but occasionally invertebrates or small reptiles, mammals or birds READ MORE ABOUT THE BIRDS:
Local Postal Customer
Dunes Brewing opens as Port Orange’s first beachside brewery
Visit 59 Dunlawton Ave., Unit 102, Port Orange.
Courtesy photo
Dune’s Brewing, the first-ever brewery on Port Orange’s beachside, opened Friday, Oct. 1, at 59 Dunlawton Ave., Unit 102. “We wanted to design a place where people could drink up the coastal lifestyle, feel at home and have some fun,” said Courtney White, Dunes Brewing Designer. “After a long day, being able to head to Dunes and sink into one of the couches or chairs while enjoying an amazing brew, there’s
nothing like it.” Local brewing legend Jeremy Shaw created the unique flavors that make up Dunes Brewing’s first six craft beers – Black Tide Schwarzbier Lager, Mrs. Bumstead Blond Ale, Undertow Porter, Down Under Classic IPA, Sunglow Saison and Farmhouse Ale. Dunes Brewing General Manager Kila Wenkart said, “We look forward to being an integral part of our local community.”
PORT ORANGE OBSERVER
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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
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BIZ BUZZ Halifax Health— Hospice recognized for level of care
HealthCareFirst has selected Halifax Health–Hospice as one of the top hospices providing the best patient and caregiver experience in its 2021 Hospice Honors list. This landmark compilation acknowledges Halifax Health—Hospice as the only hospice in Central Florida providing the highest level of quality as measured from a caregiver’s point of view. “Hospice Honors defines a new standard of excellence in the patient/family experience for hospice agencies,” says Liz Silva, Director of Hospice at HealthCareFirst.”
Construction material prices remain high
The prices contractors pay for construction materials far outstripped the prices contractors charge in the 12 months ending in September, despite a recent decline in a few materials prices, while delivery problems intensified, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of government data released recently. The producer price index for new nonresidential construction — a measure of what contractors say they would charge to erect five types of nonresidential buildings — rose 5.2% over the past 12 months, despite a decline of 0.9% in the latest month.
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PORT ORANGE OBSERVER
YOUR TOWN
Courtesy photo
Jackie Berard collected the $1,000 first-place prize in the 2021 Coastal Duck Derby from KofC Council 8086 Deputy Grand Knight Ernie Jackson (left) and Past Grand Knight Tim Mell.
SUCCESSFUL COASTAL DUCK DERBY Knights of Columbus Our Lady of Hope Council 8086 overcame numerous obstacles to have its second-best Coastal Duck Derby, raising more than $16,000 for KofC charities.
This was the fifth year for the initiative, returning to the Port Orange City Center Lake during the annual Port Orange Family Days. Due to the pandemic, the many community events where the council formerly sold ducks were canceled, limiting the number of pre-event sales. However, a
strong response from the parish to a pre-event mailing, and an excellent response from the community at the first open event in nearly two years resulted in the council selling all of its more than 1,500 ducks. The ducks were dropped into the center of the small lake from a paddle boat piloted by Sir Knights Richie Smatt and Walter Kaehl. Brother Knight Dan Brownsberger retrieved the winning ducks from a kayak and paddled back to shore, where the winners were announced by project originator and point of contact Past Grand Knight Tim Mell. Jackie Berard held the number for the first-place duck, winning $1,000. Our Lady of Hope parishioner Joann Robinson donated $100 of her $500 second-place prize back to the Knights. Other winners were: third place, Mary Cain, $200; and fourth place, Mathew Nickles, $100. All funds raised will benefit Knights of Columbus programs, including Coats for Kids, Pregnancy Crisis Center, Community Youth Programs, Special Olympics, Habitat for Humanity and Children with Disabilities.
IMPACT GIVES BACK Food Brings Hope was the recent recipient of a food drive, sponsored by the Innovative Medical Professionals Assisting the Community of Today. Leighann Greco, community relations director at Benton House of Port Orange, hosted a donation drive-by at Benton House, in collaboration with Trilogy Health Services and Vitas Healthcare. To encourage participation,
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Benton House partnered with Fire House Subs to provide a box lunch to everyone who dropped off donations, which were then donated to Food Brings Hope. FBH Executive Director Judi Winch was “overwhelmed with the generosity of IMPACT’s members.” “IMPACT has grown over the years, and we are thrilled that this allows us to donate to more non-profits such as Food Brings Hope,” Greco said.
Judi Winch, FBH executive director; Leighann Greco, community relations director for Benton House of Port Orange; and Lisa Seale, of Trilogy Healthcare.
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PORT ORANGE OBSERVER
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NOVEMBER 2021
BUSINESS OBSERVER Development, real estate + business news
Chefs for Seniors provides nutritious meals, good company St. Clair cooks meals in people’s homes according to their tastes and nutritional needs BRENT WORONOFF CONTRIBUTING WRITER
ORMOND GOLFRIDGE 3BD/2BA home peacefully situated at the end of a quite cul da sac. Boasting new vinyl double pane argon insulated windows, recently & tastefully updated open kitchen w/ Stainless steal appliance package, just off the kitchen is the dining & home office flex space, behind the wooden accent wall & French Doors. MLS#1089256 $280,000 Call Addam Ralston 386-566-1812.
VINEYARDS OF PORT ORANGE
NEW SMYRNA BEACH
SALE PENDING
Welcome to your Private Island! Hog Island (formally Belle Island) is 224 acres of complete privacy. It is currently the largest private island for sale in the state of Florida and the island’s connection to mainland power, phones and internet via submarine cable make it a truly unique oasis. MLS#1089390 $7,900,000 Call Hannah Harp 386-299-1884.
This beautiful home built by Fretwell Homes is located in the heart of Port Orange & perfectly situated on a quiet cul-de-sac w/ complete privacy in the backyard! The 3BD/2BA floorplan offers an abundance of natural light & features a separate office, dining room, large bonus room, & 3-car garage! MLS#1089372 $385,000 Call Cindy Lee Harper 386-566-4747.
Own your hidden & private country paradise on 7.5 acres in the desirable Samsula area of New Smyrna Beach. Property sits high & dry. The man-made pond w/ fountain is stocked. Sit on your deck & take in the majestic oaks & natural scenery. A beautiful 4BD/2BA manufactured home provides a spacious 2,280 sq.ft. living area. MLS#1086847 $799,000 Call Gabi Sessions 386-846-7996.
Worker shortages in group homes
Beautiful Florida 3BD/2BA home offering a favorable layout w/ abundant windows comprised of 1,612 sqft of living area. Living room, dining room & kitchen conveniently open to each other, creating ultimate spaces for entertaining & family life. Screened Florida room runs the entire width of the home, overlooking the water. MLS#1089709 $299,000 Call Sandy Cook 386-547-1156.
Amazing ocean & river views from every window in this 3BD/3BA move in ready luxury condo offered w/ many upgrades, LVP flooring, stainless steel appliances, modern fans & lighting, Wake up in your master bedroom to ocean views & drink your morning beverage w/ unobstructed views of the river from the kitchen & main balcony. MLS#1088183 $579,900 Call Rosana Scaccia 347-247-8093.
EAST DAYTONA
OCEANS GRAND A CONDO
More than 100 group homes for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have shuttered since March in Florida, and more closures might be on the horizon, providers warn, unless the Legislature boosts funding for the facilities. In western Volusia County, Duvall Homes CEO Steve DeVane has temporarily shut down two of his 15 group homes. Duvall, which runs residential sites for adults with developmental disabilities as well as a day-training program, employs about 85 workers and has 25 open positions, he said. “If we close down, these folks are going to be out of a place to live,” DeVane said.
3BD/3BA Hudson Design offers an open concept floor plan that’s great for entertaining. The main living area offers 9’4’’ ceilings with double pane windows. Granite countertops, ceramic tile, Frigidaire stainless steel appliances with Timberlake cabinets adds the perfect finishes to this 2018, two- story townhome. MLS#1089504 $285,900 Call Monica Howington-Olah 386-679-0868.
Quintessential Mediterranean Revival 3BD/2BA beachside bungalow w/ legally rentable 2BD/1BA guest house on almost half an acre just steps to the ocean. Updates throughout including granite, crown molding, fireplace & a beautiful courtyard plus a yard to play in. MLS#1089656 $579,000 Call Krista Goodrich 678-928-1100.
SALE PENDING CAMBRIDGE
Large Enclosed pool home with spacious oversized detached garage. Homes fourth bedroom has been converted to large utility room with full bath and closet. Hardwood and tile floors throughout this spacious beauty. Custom kitchen with Granite counter tops. Home has new roof from 2010 and newer AC in 2017. MLS#1088501 $420,000 Call Shane Reinhardt 813-808-1577.
PRIVATE ISLAND
Beautifully updated Move-in ready condominium in the heart of Port Orange. Walkway leads up to a newly screened porch w/ a gorgeous tile floor. That same, wood look tile welcomes you in the expansive living space w/ new interior paint, Granite counter tops, spacious cabinetry, GIANT island, breakfast bar, & appliances. MLS#1088423 $189,900 Call Jake Scolaro 813-774-2187.
St. Clair does not have professional training as a chef but said this is the job he was meant to do. “My mom was a wonderful cook, and that sparked my love for cooking,” he said. “I love cooking, and I love helping people out. I don’t feel like I’m working.” St. Clair plans to hire two additional chefs as his business expands. “They don’t need to be trained chefs,” he said. “They just need to love cooking, enjoy seniors and be personable.”
The Board of Directors of Halifax Humane Society have appointed Chief Financial and Development Officer Pam Clayton as the interim CEO. “This appointment will ensure stability for this great organization until the Board decides who will lead us forward,” Board President Mel Stack said. The appointment has been made due to the recent resignation of Miguel Abi-hassan, who served as CEO since 2011.
Beautiful pool home in Bayberry Lakes just waiting for a family to move in and make it their home sweet home! The main level features a huge kitchen, family room and Dining room. Outside you will find a beautiful oasis out back in the screened in swimming pool/spa. All of this sits upon a beautiful lakefront lot. MLS#1089034 $475,000 Call Christina Bovier 386-846-8284.
Beautiful home has been meticulously maintained and is perfectly situated in the heart of Port Orange! No HOA! The3BD/2BA floorplan features an abundance of natural light with an open living area and split bedroom plan. The remodeled kitchen features raised panel cabinets, Corian countertops, and lots of storage. MLS#1089610 $275,000 Call Kelly Riggle 386-212-7333.
SALE PENDING
Don’t miss out on this NEW charming ranch style home built in 2020 on a large corner lot. NO HOA! LOCATION is key. This home is across from Cypress Lake where you can enjoy many outdoor activities. This spacious home is perfect for a family or ideal for retirement! This home is move in ready. MLS#1085630 $274,900 Call Jennifer Waldo 813-415-7227.
SALE PENDING EDGEWATER
SOUTH OAK TOWNHOUSES
SOLAR POWER HOME
BEACHSIDE OFFICE - 386-441-SOLD (7653) 2110 Oceanshore Blvd., Ste. B, Ormond Beach, FL 32176 PORT ORANGE OFFICE - 386-767-SOLD (7653) 840 Dunlawton Ave., Ste. D, Port Orange, FL 32127 COMMERCIAL OFFICE - 386-253-8565 140 S. Atlantic Ave , Ormond Beach, FL 32176 DAYTONA BEACH SHORES 3118 S. Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach Shores, FL 32118
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HHS appoints interim CEO
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“I love cooking and I love helping people out. I don’t feel like I’m working.”
HIDDEN LAKE
Go to https://chefsforseniors. com/volusia-flagler-fl Call or text 386-682-3883.
with heating instructions and stores them in his client’s freezer and refrigerator. He offers a $20 discount for each of the first two services if a client commits to two services because often adjustments are made after the first service based on their tastes. St. Clair said some of his clients are 55 and others are 95. Some love to chat while he cooks, some don’t. For some, the socialization is as important as the meals themselves, he said. People use the service for different reasons. “Some people, like one gentleman whose wife passed away, just have never cooked,” St. Clair said. “Some just can’t get out.” Barrett Allman and his son, Nathan Allman, began Chefs for Seniors in 2013 in Madison, Wisconsin. The company now has 60 franchises nationwide, in addition to St. Clair’s.
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got the franchise.” St. Clair opened his business in June. He has several clients in the Palm Coast and Ormond Beach areas. He starts with a free consultation in people’s homes, discussing dietary needs, health restrictions and tastes and planning a menu. “We focus on their big meal of the day,” St. Clair said. “The concept is to keep them healthy. Nutritious, quality food does in fact help seniors stay in their homes longer.” St. Clair, who has a ServeSafe certification, charges $149 in addition to the cost of groceries for his typical service, which provides meals for two for about one week or meals for one for about two weeks. He brings over the groceries and his own equipment and spends about 2 1/2 hours in the home. He packages and labels the meals
2020 BUILT HOME
As the owner of the Chefs for Seniors franchise in Volusia and Flagler counties, Mark St. Clair prepares meals for senior citizens. But while programs like Meals on Wheels deliver meals to people’s homes, St. Clair delivers the chef. St. Clair buys the groceries, brings them to his clients’ homes and cooks four different meals, a total of 14 to 16 servings, in their kitchens. “It’s quite a unique service,” said St. Clair, 60. “I was actually looking for a business plan online to do a personal chef business, and Chefs for Seniors kept coming up. They’re amazing people. I put together a business plan for them, and, after several months, I
Courtesy photos
Chicken, beef, pork tenderloin and shrimp dishes are among the most popular, Mark St. Clair said.
BIZ BUZZ
Concrete block 2BD/2BA home situated on a large fully fenced in double corner lot, boat/RV parking & no HOA! This home opens up to a very spacious living area w/ a ton of natural light, features a split floor plan & a BONUS room with so many options to create an amazing space just for you! MLS#1085808 $250,000 Call Jacklyn Gonzalez 386-295-5442.