THE HAMMOCK
Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
VOLUME 1, NO. 6
100 cats up for adoption PAGE 7A
FREE ON NEWSSTANDS | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
Shape of Water could still open in 2025 Connecting to Palm Coast utilities would make Brent Bruns’ unique restaurant possible. ‘Failure is not an option.’ 9A
Asking for just the right amount from the state
MalaCompra flooding fix: $8 million
Flagler County seeks state help with draining, flooding
SIERRA WILLIAMS
PAGE 6A INSIDE ELECTION SEASON
Palm Coast’s Charles Gambaro will run for Congress PAGE 2A
STEVENS SHINES
Matanzas grad Leah Stevens pitches perfect inning in AllAmerican softball game. PAGE 9B
INDEX
‘The primary project objective is to reduce the severity and the duration of the flooding,’ county engineer Tabassian said. CONTRIBUTING WRITER
As part of the Stormwater Master Plan to improve flood-prone areas, Flagler County is working on a project to improve the water capacity of the MalaCompra Canal in The Hammock. MalaCompra Canal runs west to east along Mala Compra Road and has a drainage basin that reaches from Bay Drive to Jungle Hut Road, an area of just over 2 square miles. The improvement project will include replacing the box culvert underneath State Road A1A at MalaCompra Road and widening and deepening the canal itself, county engineer Hamid Tabassian said in a phone interview with the Observer. “The primary project objective is to reduce the severity and the duration of the flooding,” he said. The culvert and canal are under-
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During large storm events, when sea levels rise with storm surge, so too does the Intracoastal’s water levels. If the water level gets too high, the flow of the water reverses, sending water from the Intracoastal into the MalaCompra basin and flooding the areas east of the Intracoastal Waterway. Photo of Bings Landing from Adobe Stock
sized right now, Tabassian said, and during 100-year storm events the canal floods by 26 inches with excess water, covering MalaCompra Road as the canal backs up. “The water on the canal rises, and with that, all those neighborhoods, they don’t flush out as easily,” he said. This has to do with how the canal drains into the Intracoastal Waterway, he said. During large storm events, when sea levels rise with storm surge, so too does the Intracoastal’s water levels, he said. If the water level gets too high, the flow of the water reverses, sending water from the Intracoastal into the MalaCompra basin and flooding the areas east of the Intracoastal Waterway. Not only does the excess water flood the area, but it will also sit for several days until the water is able to drain. The improvements to the canal will help increase water storage and help prevent flooding during 100-year events, he said. Flagler County is putting together a public workshop to connect with and educate The Hammock community about the MalaCompra improvement project. The workshop meeting will take place at the Hammock Community Center on MalaCompra Road in either September or October, he said. “Those areas really depend on having a maintained canal,” Tabassian said. A firm is working on the project’s design now, Tabassian said, though that won’t be finished until next year. The improvements are likely to cost around $8 million altogether, though the county won’t have a more accurate estimate until the design portion of the project is completed, he said. The county has funded the design portion using $800,000 in grant funding Flagler County received from the American Rescue Plan Act grant. Looking forward to the construction phase, Flagler County is not waiting for the design portion to finish before putting together funding for the next phase, starting with applying for grant funding. Tabassian said staff at the county are putting together a grant appli-
The MalaCompra Canal has water that drains from across the MalaCompra drainage basin, stretching from Bay Drive to Jungle Hut Road. Courtesy of Flagler County
cation for the Florida Department of Transportation’s resiliency grant funding. The grant application closes at the end of August and the county must demonstrate the problem, its impacts and the estimated cost of the project. While staff works on finding funding and the results of the design phase, Tabassian said the county is working to maintain the canal in the meantime by regularly clearing out debris that gets stuck in the canal. The MalaCompra project is not the only one on the county’s radar, either, he said. The area north of
Marineland around Washington Oaks State Park is also prone to flooding, he said, and even closed S.R. A1A after Hurricanes Ian and Nicole hit in 2022 and flood waters covered the road. Though maintenance for that area is under the jurisdiction of the state, not the county, Tabaissan said the county ensures it is on FDOT’s radar. “FDOT knows that’s a problem,” he said, “but we keep, at every meeting, at every turn, we bring it to their attention that it needs to be taken care of so we don’t have this problem.”
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
BRIEFS Charles Gambaro to run for U.S. House District 6 Republican Charles Gambaro, a former brigadier general and current Palm Coast City Council member, will run for the U.S. House of Representatives, District 6, he said in a press release on July 31. The seat in Congress is currently held by Republican Randy Fine, who won a special election on April 1 by a margin of 14 percentage points over Democrat Josh Weil. Trump endorsed Fine, as did Michael Waltz, who vacated the seat to serve in Trump’s administration. Gambaro said in the press release that he would place “America first through a conservative Republican approach to finding solutions and solving problems.” He touted his leadership abilities and courage — “a leader that actually lives
COPS CORNER JULY 17
‘NO, SIR’ 9:15 a.m. — Intersection of Avocado Boulevard and Ironwood Avenue, Bunnell Obstruction without violence. A 40-year-old Palm Coast woman was arrested after refusing to hand her driver’s license to deputies after she was pulled over for a traffic infraction. According to her arrest report, the woman had disobeyed a stop sign, though the woman denied this. When a deputy asked her for her license, registration and insurance, the woman said she would show him her license
in the 6th Congressional District.” (Fine lives south of District 6.) Fine, who served in the Florida Legislature from 2016 to 2025, has been the subject of some controversy. Since joining the U.S. House, for example, he mocked images of starving Palestinians, saying they could “starve away.” “Our residents deserve better than our current representative in Congress,” Gambaro said. Meanwhile, Gambaro has been involved in political strife during his short tenure so far in Palm Coast. After he was appointed on Oct. 1, 2024, Palm Coast Mayor Mike Norris argued that Gambaro’s appointment should have expired on election day, Nov. 5, 2024, according to his interpretation of the City Charter. Then, after Norris was accused of violating the City Charter by interfering with staff, Gambaro has advocated for Norris to be censured and removed. Norris countered by suing Gambaro and the city. The City Council voted to send
but that she never let anyone hold it. The deputy said he needed her license to conduct a query. After multiple refusals to his requests, the deputy requested an additional unit and a supervisor, but she continued to deny handing over her documents, “No, sir.” She also refused to exit her vehicle, leading to her arrest.
JULY 17
NO TRACE 10:40 a.m. — 100 block of Business Center Drive, Ormond Beach Grand theft. A 300-foot hose from a local pest control company’s truck was reported stolen after an employee noticed it was missing when he arrived at his first job of the day. According to a police
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach
a letter to Gov. Ron DeSantis to request he remove Norris. Gambaro does not plan to run for Palm Coast City Council in 2026.
Josh Weil exits U.S. Senate race A little more than a month after announcing he would run for the U.S. Senate in 2026, Democrat Josh Weil on Thursday, July 31, withdrew because of a health condition. Weil issued a statement that said he’s noticed an increase in symptoms tied to a condition called Rhabdomyolosis, in which damaged muscle tissue releases its contents into the bloodstream. He said he’s previously been hospitalized for the condition. “Florida deserves a U.S. senator who can fight for them 100 percent of the time,” Weil said. “I do not wish to hold that seat if I cannot give them that 100 percent that they deserve.” Weil lost an April 1 special election to Republican Randy
incident report, the employee had last seen the truck after he parked it in a gated lot. But, while the parking lot does have gates, a pedestrian can walk beside them to gain entrance, the report notes. In addition to the hose, a metal sprayer and connections were also taken, which the business owner said would cost about $1,200. The chemicals inside the tank would also have to be disposed of, as it was unknown if they had been tampered with. A suspect has yet to be identified. No surveillance footage was found.
JULY 18
ELECTRONICS TAKEN 10:11 p.m. — 600 block of South Yonge Street, Ormond Beach Burglary. A 43-year-old
Fine in Congressional District 6, which is made up of all or parts of Flagler, Lake, Marion, Putnam, St. Johns and Volusia counties. But Democrats touted Weil’s performance in the heavily Republican district. Weil added in his statement that by making the decision now, another “staunch progressive” had time to enter the race. U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody, R-Fla., is seeking to win a full term in the seat after being appointed early this year by Gov. Ron DeSantis.
5-month-old boy killed by family dog in Ormond A 5-month-old boy died after succumbing to injuries received by a family dog in a heartbreaking tragedy on Wednesday night, July 30. The Volusia County Sheriff’s Department responded to a 911 call just before 10 p.m. at a home on Carolina Avenue. During the call, the infant’s parents returned home and rushed him to Advent Hospi-
Daytona Beach woman called police after she opened her storage unit and found it in a disheveled state, with several electronics missing. Police report the woman stored the missing items — three laptops, one tablet, chargers and a laptop case — on July 5. Days later on July 11, she noticed that a 36-yearold Daytona Beach man, a possible suspect in the case, had one of the chargers she knew she had stored in the unit. He denied the charger was hers, but the woman told police he also made passing comments about other items in her storage unit, like her Beanie Babies collection, which he shouldn’t have known about. The woman found a wallet and backpack full of men’s clothing inside the storage
tal in Daytona Beach, where he was pronounced dead. The child had been left in the custody of his greatgrandmother and great-aunt while his parents were out celebrating his mother’s birthday. Sheriff Michael Chitwood responded to the incident in a press briefing. “This is extremely, extremely heartbreaking... I can’t imagine how anybody in this family is feeling,” Chitwood said. Caregivers had placed the child in a bedroom and closed the door before releasing three dogs that had been kept in cages. The largest, a 130-pound Great Dane and Husky mix, was later found sitting beside the child’s lifeless body. Volusia County Animal Services took custody of the dog, which has since been euthanized in accordance with state law. Sheriff Chitwood urged the public’s response to this incident to be compassionate, calling out harsh and insensitive comments on social
unit. Inside the wallet was a Social Security card belonging to another possible suspect, a 44-year-old Daytona Beach man. The items missing were valued at about $2,600. She wished to pursue charges.
JULY 23
GUNPOINT 8:29 p.m. — Intersection of Palm Coast Parkway and Florida Park Drive, Palm Coast Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Deputies arrested a 42-year-old Palm Coast man suspected to have pointed a firearm at a woman over a road rage incident. According to his arrest report, the victim, a 28-yearold Palm Coast woman, told deputies that she had picked up a food order while working as a DoorDash driver when
media. “I hope if you have a heart, you’ll find in your heart to offer condolences, not some of the stuff that I saw and has been pointed out to me,” Chitwood said.
Felony child abuse charge dismissed against Dr. Garrett Prosecutors have dropped a felony child abuse charge against Christine Garrrett, a Palm Coast doctor, on July 23. She had been accused on Feb. 2 of this year of striking her adopted son with a plastic garbage can after an argument over cleaning his room. Garrett’s attorney, Dillon M. Andreassi, said and email, “the child advised their counselor along with multiple witnesses that their allegations were untrue. Furthermore, Dr. Garrett passed a polygraph test confirming the same. … It is with great pleasure that Dr. Garrett can put this matter behind her.”
the man pulled up in a red Cadillac in front of her, so she honked her horn. The man became upset and “began to chase her as they were driving,” the report states. They came to a stop at a nearby red light, at which point she reported he pulled out a gun, pointing it directly at her and warning her that he would shoot. The driver then proceeded to swerve as if trying to hit her vehicle before doing a U-turn. The man told deputies that, while they did have a verbal argument, it was the victim that tried to run him off the road. During a search of his vehicle, police found a gun and about 27 grams of marijuana. He was taken to jail.
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
‘Significant step’
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Capacity doubled at Palm Coast’s Wastewater Treatment Plant 2
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
The City of Palm Coast held a ribbon cutting Monday, Aug. 4, for the completion of the expansion project at the city’s Wastewater Treatment Plant 2. The expansion of the plant at 400 Peavy Grade off U.S. 1, which included the installation of advanced systems, doubles the capacity of the plant from 2 million to 4 million gallons per day. “This is a significant step,” Mayor Mike Norris said at the ribbon cutting ceremony. “This is going to greatly improve our ability to process water that can convert flows over from Plant 1 (on 26 Utility Drive) over here and vice versa. And it’s all going to continue to expand with the money we’re investing in our infrastructure.” To comply with a consent decree from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Palm Coast must expand capacity at Treatment Plant 1 by 2028. The city plans to expand the older treatment plant from 6.83 million gallons per day to almost 10 million gallons per day. That project is currently in the design phase. The Florida Legislature recently approved $2.5 million for a new equalization tank that will relieve overflow pressure at Treatment Plant 1, and another $2.5 million to assist with critical upgrades at that facility. Pete Roussell, the city’s deputy utility director, said the newly constructed exansion of Treatment Plant 2 “represents not only progress to infrastructure, but also our community’s commitment to growth, sustainability and public health. “Today is about more than just pumps, pipes and concrete,” he said. “It’s about preparing and planning for the future. … As our population increases, so too does the need for resilient systems that support our daily lives and protect the environment that we all share.” Roussell said the city is “now able to treat significantly more wastewater safely, efficiently and with higher environmental standards.” The project broke ground in 2022 and was funded through the State
Wastewater Treatment Plant 2 Chief Operator Mike Baldwin provided a tour of the facility.
Palm Coast city officials cut the ribbon on the expanded Wastewater Treatment Plant 2. Photos by Brent Woronoff
Revolving Fund Loan Program, which provided financing in the amount of $30,859,801.76 at a low interest rate of 0.67%, according to a city press release. The program, administered by the FDEP, offers affordable financing to communities for water infrastructure improvements. In addition to doubling capacity, the expansion allows up to 800,000 gallons per day to be redirected from Wastewater Treatment Plant 1, according to city officials. The older plant has faced capacity strain during heavy rainfall. The reclaimed water from Treatment Plant 2 is used for irrigation with excess safely discharged into nearby wetlands. The plant’s Advanced Wastewater Treatment technology uses a membrane bioreactor process that filters out most debris before flows are treated. The process is moved through “trains” of tanks with live microorganisms doing much of the work by feeding on organic waste. Mike Baldwin, the chief operator of Treatment Plant 2, provided a tour of the facility. The two-story plant is divided into four areas with each providing a different purpose in the treatment process, Baldwin said, providing air, filtration or equalization storage. “The first section is the EQ (equalization) tank that will hold around 400,000 gallons on each side,” Baldwin said. “There are two trains
for each of these tank systems. So, when all the inflow will come into the EQ tanks, it starts going through the treatment process and then to the filtration area.” Pumps and blowers help move the water. Baldwin said the four different trains of treatment all work around the same flows in the same design but they’re all separate. “So, in case we have to do maintenance on one of them, we can rely on the other three trains to maintain,” he said. Baldwin said staff has to maintain the population of mocroorganisms. “Too many microorganisms, they start getting combative. So, we will waste some,” he said. “And that’s where, in the back of the plant, we will actually process into a biosolids material, and that can get sent out and turned into a fertilizer.” The newly equipped plant is the new way of treating wastewater, said Danny Ashburn, the city’s waste-
“Today is about more than just pumps, pipes and concrete. It’s about preparing and planning for the future.” PETE ROUSSELL, Palm Coast deputy utility director
Palm Coast Deputy Utility Director Pete Roussell
water utilities systems manager. “This plant represents the future,” he said. “If you’ve ever been over to our other plant, you can see how massive and expansive it is. This type of treatment right here is a smaller footprint. Less property and more advanced treatment helps the environment and the future growth of Palm Coast.”
Wastewater Utilities Systems Manager Danny Ashburn. The purple pipes contain reclaimed water; brown is for inflows.
Palm Coast City Council approves zoning change for concrete batch plant Council votes 3-2 for a zoning change allowing a new concrete business at 15 Hargrove Lane. Vice Mayor Theresa Pontieri and Councilman Ty Miller voted against the proposal. SIERRA WILLIAMS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The Palm Coast City Council has approved the first of two votes that would allow a proposed concrete batch plant to be built next to the light industrial park on Hargrove Lane. The council voted 3-2 to amend the zoning at the 15 Hargrove Lane property from Light Industrial to Industrial 2, which allows for heavier industrial uses, like the proposed concrete plant. Mayor Mike Norris and Councilmen Charles Gambaro and Dave Sullivan voted for the zoning change, while Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri and Councilman
Ty Miller voted against it. Pontieri, who has in the past advocated for more industrial within Palm Coast, said the city should exercise caution in approving the zoning change. Approving this application, she said, would make it that much more difficult to turn down other incompatible heavy industrial applications. “That is a slippery slope,” she said. “If we now allow more Industrial 2 in, where we already allow light industrial, we are getting away from the original intent of this industrial park.” The application came before the City Council without a recommendation from the Palm Coast Planning Board. The board had reviewed the application on June 18, but, with six members present, the board tied in two 3-3 votes, one to approve the application and one to deny it. This is the second time since 2024 the property has come before the City Council with a proposed project. In January 2024, the previous council approved a site plan for a luxury car condo facility on the site.
That development order is set to expire next year, but the applicant is now proposing to build a concrete batch plant, city planner Michael Hanson said. The property is a 36-acre lot that is comprised mostly of a lot of wetlands. The proposed project would use 10,000 gallons of water per day, Hanson said, though the backup data the applicant sent over stated a maximum use of 14,000 gallons per day, Pontieri said. SRM Concrete business development manager Brian Hercules said the intention is only to develop around five acres of the land for the plant, which will operate with a maximum of 12 cement mixing trucks. The water would be used to wash the trucks daily and to keep the aggregate wet and help with dust particles, Hercules said, and the plant’s filtration system would also capture 99.5% of dust particles. The used water would be recycled and reused on the site. As far as generated traffic goes, Hercules said the site would have trucks traveling in or out once every 10 minutes.
While the proposed project is still conceptual at this stage in the application, Hanson said, staff recommended the council approve the zoning change. If it is approved after a second vote, the item will return to the council for a technical site plan approval down the line. Multiple business owners from 15 Hargrove Lane showed up at the Aug. 5 meeting to urge the council to reject the application. Many argued the area is not suited for heavy industrial work as it would negatively impact the surrounding businesses. “While I support responsible growth, this proposal is incompatible with character and function of the existing businesses that are already there,” said Renee Hunter, representing Auto House, located at 15 Hargrove Lane. Brent Snyder, another business owner at 15 Hargrove Lane, argued that the road there would not support the heavy trucks going back and forth. The road already has issues, he said. “It’s already difficult as it is dealing with the traffic that is already there,” he said. “Keep it the way it’s
designed to be.” Pontieri argued that the council needed to consider if all IND-2 uses would be compatible in the area, and not just in a vacuum of the proposed use. “We have to look at it as an Industrial 2 use, and what else are in the Industrial 2 uses, and are all those compatible in this industrial park,” she said. “And the answer is: Hard no, they are not.” The approval of this project would also set the precedent for future, similar zoning applications, including one, Pontieri said, that would be reviewed by the Planning Board in August. The council needs to consider not just the positive impact the business could bring to the city, but also the potential negative impact it could have on the existing surrounding businesses. “I agree that this could, this one development could provide economic vitality,” Pontieri said, “but what, at what cost?” What’s your take? Send letters to the editor to brent@observerlocal news. com.
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach
Q+ A THERESA PONTIERI, PALM COAST VICE MAYOR
Focused on economic vitality: More jobs before more houses BRIAN MCMILLAN PUBLISHER
I
f the City of Palm Coast is poised to expand west of the railroad tracks, Vice Mayor Theresa Pontieri is happy that this particular City Council is in charge. “I think this council is very focused on economic development and commercial growth,” she said in a recent Facebook Live interview with the Observer. “This council is not afraid to say no to developers who want to pump in more residential. I have seen this council really take some bold moves and show the residents that we hear you, we’re listening, we understand the concerns. We’re all taxpayers here, too.” Pontieri spoke about the city’s infrastructure progress and needs, as well as the “real work” of being a City Council member. What follows is a transcript of the conversion, edited for clarity and length. ARE YOU PROAFFORDABILITY, WHEN IT COMES TO HOUSING?
I think that there has to be the proper mix of different types of housing in order to accommodate different types of families and individuals, particularly when we’re looking at our workforce, our first responders, our teachers, our young people that come back from college. But, I think that there’s a false sense that we need to pump in more housing in order to get there. And I think that’s the problem. HOW DO YOU MAKE THINGS MORE AFFORDABLE WITHOUT INCREASING THE SUPPLY?
Right now, single family homes, pursuant to our Land Development Code, aren’t allowed to have single-car garages. But if we can build homes with single-car garages, it makes it cheaper to build. Therefore you can pass on that cost savings to your residents or your future buyers. But if we look at this at a higher level, the way to make Palm Coast more affordable is to bring in more industry, more economic development, so that we’re not so reliant on our taxpayers to pay for the city’s operations. THE CITY HAS APPROVED ENTITLEMENTS TO BUILD ABOUT 19,000 MORE HOMES. IF THOSE WERE BUILT, WOULD THAT IMPROVE AFFORDABILITY?
I don’t think so. And I actually think that it will have a negative effect on the home values of current residents, which we don’t want. We don’t want to pump in more homes in the hopes that it’ll drive down the pricing. And I think it’s really important to understand that
those 19,000 homes can’t be built tomorrow. Those are entitlements only. Think of it as kind of a certificate, a piece of paper that says I can build this home eventually, but not tomorrow. DO YOU CONSIDER YOURSELF ANTIRESIDENTIAL GROWTH?
I am anti-residential growth to the extent we do not have the infrastructure for it. We don’t have the jobs for it. So, we have to make sure we’re going down the track together at the right pace, and I think what we’ve seen over the past several years is a pumping of dwelling units — and we should call them dwelling units because that encompasses multi-family and single family — without ensuring infrastructure is in place. We need to make sure impact fees are where they need to be, and that we’ve got the jobs, so that we’re not a net exporter of workers, which is what we are right now. WHAT IS THE INFRASTRUCTURE THAT WE WOULD NEED TO CATCH UP TO?
We’ve really improved our stormwater in the last year. So I really have to commend staff and City Council for taking some real steps forward. But we’ve struggled with keeping up with our roads. Our roads have been traditionally funded by the gas tax, and up until about 10 years ago, there was also a sales tax that was going towards that road infrastructure, and we got rid of that extra sales tax. So now we’re only funded by the gas tax, and it’s just not keeping pace with the cost of improving roads, which is why we decided to
do micro surfacing. That allows us to improve roads at a much cheaper rate and cover for a lot more areas. For instance, last year, we were able to do 32 roads for a million dollars. The year before that, we were able to do 28 roads. And that was an initiative that I brought to council and that fortunately they’ve agreed to fund. DOES THE CITY HAVE ENOUGH WATER AND WASTEWATER CAPACITY?
On a normal everyday, yes. It’s your really rare storm events where we get a lot of rain, where we struggle with wastewater capacity. And then what’s ironic about that is, when we go through these dry spells, we struggle with a need for water. So, it’s this weird back and forth that we have to be careful about when we’re looking at the system. But it’s not just capacity, it’s also technology. We’ve got some outdated technology that we have to invest in. We did get state grant money for advanced water treatment. WITH THE IMPROVEMENTS SCHEDULED IN THE NEXT YEARS, WE SHOULD HAVE CAPACITY TO TREAT OVER 14 MILLION GALLONS PER DAY. SO, EVEN AFTER ALL THE 19,000 HOMES ARE BUILT, WE WOULD STILL HAVE OVER 3.5 MILLION GALLONS PER DAY OF CAPACITY AVAILABLE. ARE WE ON TOP OF IT?
We are. People need to keep in mind, too, and it’s really important not to forget that we’re not just talking about residents that need wastewater. Our restaurants and other commercial businesses use a lot more than a neighborhood or a multi-family complex. And I know our residents are very invested
Palm Coast City Councilwoman Theresa Pontieri. Courtesy photo
in seeing more commercial development. CAN WE TALK ABOUT THE POLITICAL ENVIRONMENT? THE CITY COUNCIL VOTED NO CONFIDENCE IN MAYOR MIKE NORRIS. WHAT WOULD GIVE YOU CONFIDENCE IN THE MAYOR AGAIN?
My primary objective every week is to do my job. And doing the job does not happen just on the dais. As a matter of fact, I would say that 90% of the job is done during the week prior to the Tuesday meeting. It’s when you have staff meetings, it’s when you’re reading the packet, it’s when you’re doing research, it’s when you’re talking to the residents, it’s when you’re talking to the stakeholders, it’s all of those things. I’ll use a sports analogy: The work that you see on the football field, that’s not the work. That’s game time. All the work happens in the preparation. When you come to the meeting, it’s incumbent upon you to be ready to ask staff very good questions and be ready to give analysis and not to just a vote but to explain why you’re voting. We are under a lot of legal requirements when we vote on certain things, so I think a lot of people don’t really realize that we can’t just say no to certain things that we may want to say no to, because there are legal implications. So, you know it’s incumbent upon us to be prepared and to make decisions and to ask questions and to inquire on behalf of our residents in a very thoughtful and deliberate way. I want to see that from all of my colleagues. So, it’s not this is not looking at just Mayor Norris, but to see that come out of him on a regular basis would be fantastic.
What really bothered me was when I heard the statement, “Well, I’m just going to do the work from the district and not meeting with staff.” Staff has invaluable, institutional knowledge. Just this week I was meeting with staff about wastewater and, you know, what can we do to not have to raise the rates to the extent that we have said we may have to raise them to? It takes work. It takes brainstorming, it takes conversation. And if that’s not occurring, I think that that’s a real problem because you’re not doing the real work. You’re not doing the real job. Sitting on the dais is the easy part. YOU’VE HAD TO STEP IN TO DO SOME OF THE CEREMONIAL ROLES OF THE MAYOR, SUCH AS GIVING SPEECHES. HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THAT?
I don’t want anybody to think that I’m complaining about having to do those, because I feel very honored to represent our city at those events. But I think it is important that people see their mayor. A lot of people did vote for Mayor Norris, obviously. When people are looking at investing in our community, they want to know that our mayor is leading the way and is proud of our community. ARE YOU RUNNING FOR CONGRESS IN 2026? ARE YOU RUNNING FOR REELECTION ON THE CITY COUNCIL?
I haven’t decided yet. I’m not going to run for Congress. I’m going to remain in local politics. Where that is yet, I’m not sure. WHAT ABOUT THE WESTWARD EXPANSION? WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST CONCERN?
That it’s not done the right way. We have an opportunity to take 21,000 acres and make economic development the catalyst and build around that. So, when we talk about the infrastructure for the loop road — the Matanzas Woods Parkway extension (and I think many of us are not thrilled with the way that it was paid for, using tax dollars) — we want to make sure that those tax dollars are not being spent in vain. I don’t want it to be a road built to houses. I want a road built to economic vitality. Right now in this city, we
have limited space for any more commercial development. And right now, our residential and commercial split is 93% to 7%. That’s not sustainable. It’s particularly not sustainable when we have a lot of folks on fixed incomes, a lot of older retired folks, and they can’t do anything else to make more money. So, we need to lessen the burden on them. And the only way to really do that is to increase our industry to bring in more economic development, to bring in more tourism. OUR RELIANCE ON RESIDENTIAL TAXES HAS BEEN AN ISSUE FOR DECADES. AND YET, OUR TAX RATE IS STILL AMONG THE LOWEST IN THE STATE. ARE WE OVERLY ALARMED ABOUT IT?
I attribute that to two things. One, we have a fantastic staff that’s worked with City Council and been very fiscally conservative, as far as, we don’t have a whole lot of pet projects. And when you think about how beautiful our parks are, how safe our community is, we really have done a fantastic job. Yes, we have one of the lowest millage rates there is. I would like to see it go lower. I’m pushing right now for it to go 1/10 of a mill lower. I’m a big believer in having zero property taxes but having consumer fees. So, if you choose as a consumer to spend more money, then you pay more taxes on certain things. With that low tax rate there, we also have to think about the fact we have high utility rates. We have high school and water rates. We can’t just look at that in a vacuum. WHAT’S THE CHARACTERISTIC OF THIS CITY COUNCIL THAT MAKES YOU FEEL IT’S A GOOD ONE TO BE IN CHARGE OF THE WESTWARD EXPANSION?
I think this council is very focused on economic development and commercial growth. This council is not afraid to say no to developers who want to pump in more residential. I have seen this council really take some bold moves and show the residents that we hear you, we’re listening, we understand the concerns. We’re all taxpayers here, too.
Palm Coast fills two leadership positions, says thanks to Strobridge OBSERVER STAFF
Palm Coast has filled two key leadership positions, the city announced in a July 31 press release. Brian Roche has been appointed as utility director, and John Zobler has been named community development director. Both began their new positions on Monday, July 28. Acting City Manager Lauren Johnston and Interim Assistant City Manager Mark Strobridge — who was on loan from his role as chief of staff for the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office — played a pivotal role in recruiting for the two positions, the release said. Roche has more than three decades of utility and engineering experience, including with JEA, Orlando Utilities Commission and Fairfax Water. Most recently, Roche served as water resource director for North Florida Professional Services, where he provided system planning, engineering and finance support for the formation of a regional utility authority in Columbia and Suwannee counties.
Brian Roche has been named Palm Coast’s new utility director. Courtesy photos
Roche has led multi-billion-dollar capital and operating budgets, directed major infrastructure systems serving hundreds of thousands of utility customers. Zobler has served as city manager and deputy city manager for the city of Ocala, from 2010 to 2019. During his tenure, he spearheaded initiatives that transformed Ocala’s downtown core, including the development of Central Park, a walking sculpture tour, and the launch of a business incubator in a city-owned building. Zobler was instrumental in attracting large-scale employers and implemented
John Zobler is Palm Coast’s new community development director.
significant improvements to the city’s development review process. His leadership earned him the title of 2019 Person of the Year by Ocala Magazine. “These two individuals bring a wealth of experience and a passion for public service that will benefit every Palm Coast resident,” Strobridge said in the press release. “We’re excited to welcome Brian and John to the team and look forward to their contributions in shaping the future of our city.” CITY THANKS STROBRODGE
Recruited by Johnston during the height of budget season,
Top row from left: Council Member Ty Miller, Vice Mayor Theresa Pontieri, Mayor Mike Norris, Council Members David Sullivan and Charles Gambaro. Second row from left: Acting City Manager Lauren Johnston, Interim Assistant City Manager Mark Strobridge, and Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly.
Strobridge stepped in to provide additional leadership and support while Johnston balanced dual responsibilities in her role and worked to fill key vacancies. In addition to hiring Roche and Zobler, Strobridge collaborated closely with city departments to improve efficiency, enhance policy, and identify cost-saving opportunities. Earlier this year, the Palm Coast City Council approved a five-year, $304,000 plan to integrate all city-owned surveillance cam-
eras into the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Real Time Crime Center. Strobridge worked alongside the city’s IT team to find an alternate solution that will achieve the same goal while saving taxpayers $300,000. He also led an efficiency staffing analysis. Under his guidance, the city refined and modernized its Veterans Preference Policy, and updated the city’s policy manual. “Chief Strobridge brought clarity, calm, and a genuine spirit of collaboration,” John-
son said in the press release. During the Aug. 5 City Council Business Meeting, Johnston presented Strobridge with the Excellence in Action award. Reflecting on his time with the city, Strobridge said, “It was truly a privilege to support Lauren and the city team. She already had a clear vision of what needed to be done— I just helped her execute the things she already knew were important.” Strobridge returns to the FCSO this week.
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach
Flagler County Education Foundation Business Partner Spotlights Rachel Rogers with Family Ties Wellness
Flagler prioritizes state help list A delicate balance on requests for flooding and draining risks. Richardson: Are we ‘over-asking and under-getting’?
Your generous support has enabled us to implement various educational programs, enhance classroom resources, and provide enriching experiences for our students. It is heartening to witness the positive effects of your contributions. Your commitment to supporting educational endeavors strengthens, and our collaboration sets an inspiring example for others to follow. As we strive for excellence in education, your ongoing partnership is invaluable. We look forward to further collaboration and the positive impact we can create together in shaping the future through education.
SB 180: VOLUSIA TO LOBBY FOR CHANGES
NINA SCHWELM CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Flagler County commissioners are sharpening their focus as they prepare their 2026 legislative priorities, concentrating on stormwater infrastructure, beach nourishment, and protecting local decision making power at an Aug. 4 meeting. The Board of County Commissioners discussed which projects and policies to pursue as part of their official request to state lawmakers ahead of the January legislative session. They plan to finalize their list by early September to align with the local legislative delegation. Library Director Holly Albanese gave the legislative priorities presentation. Two of the county’s largest funding interests are the Black Branch North drainage system and reconstruction of the Malacompra Canal, stormwater projects aimed at improving drainage and reducing flood risk. Commissioners supported seeking state funding for both projects, but suggested requesting smaller amounts to improve chances for approval. Among other debated topics was Senate Bill 180, a recently passed state law allowing property owners in flood-prone areas to rebuild using older, less strict construction codes following storm damage. Commissioners were opposed to that section of the bill.
The Volusia County Council wants state legislators to amend Senate Bill 180. On Tuesday, Aug. 5, the council unanimously voted to request changes to the bill’s language via the county’s lobbyist. The bill, which was signed onto law by the governor in late June, prohibits local governments located within 100 miles of a track of a categorized hurricane, or listed in a federal disaster declaration, from implementing more restrictive or “burdensome” land regulations or procedures for one year after a storm makes landfall. It also rendered these regulations and procedures void, retroactive to Aug. 1, impacting the county’s newly increased stormwater regulations. Volusia County officials said they believe this wasn’t the state’s intent, and the changes they are requesting seek clarification that the law mainly
“It has a ripple effect on insurance and our participation in the national floodwater program,” Deputy County Attorney Sean Moylan said. The board also expressed concern over potential changes to how tourist development taxes will be allocated. They supported keeping these funds dedicated to local tourism projects and beach renourishment efforts. Commissioners cautioned against making their list too broad. “I just wonder if we’re overasking and under-getting,”
applies to storm-damaged properties. “A lot of the statements that we’re hearing and the conversation was about this applying to property damaged by hurricanes, and removing the red tape for the rebuilding efforts,” Senior Assistant County Attorney Paolo Soria said. Some of the proposed changes include changing language that preempts local governments from proposing or adopting moratoriums, more restrictive comprehensive plan amendments, land development regulations and reviews to state that these may instead not be enforced — only on hurricane-damaged properties. Council Chair Jeff Brower thanked the county’s legal staff for working on the proposed amendments, saying that he believed the new language better aligned with the Legislature’s intent: to help people whose homes were badly destroyed during the recent hurricanes. — JARLEENE ALMENAS
Commissioner Pam Richardson said. “I do agree that we need to bring the right projects forward and we need to bring some skin in the game,” Albanese said. “... We probably should consider what we’re asking as far as amounts.” Commissioner Andy Dance is scheduled to meet with State Rep. Sam Greco and Sen. Tom Leek before the next delegation meeting in an effort to whittle down priorities. The board is scheduled to finalize the legislative package at its Aug. 18 meeting.
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
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100 cats rescued from Palm Coast home can be adopted for half price Humane Society event ‘Coffee and Doughnuts with Cats,’ will be noon-3 p.m. Aug. 17. BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
A special adoption event for the 100-plus cats rescued from a single home in Palm Coast will be held Sunday, Aug. 17 at the Flagler Humane Society. “Coffee and Doughnuts with Cats” will be held at the Humane Society, 1 Shelter Drive, Palm Coast, from noon to 3 p.m. Adoption fees for
cats will be half price. While responding to a residential welfare check on July 22, Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputies found 96 cats living in the home of an elderly resident. Although the cats were not being neglected, it was determined that the conditions were unsafe and the cats needed to be removed, FCSO posted on social media. The community then came together. Palm Coast Animal Control removed the cats. The Flagler Humane Society welcomed the cats into its facility, staying open late and transforming its education room into a temporary haven with crates, food and litter.
“This was an incredible example of what’s possible when our community comes together for a common cause,” Palm Coast Code Enforcement Manager Barbara Grossman said. “The dedication, care and collaboration shown during this rescue were truly inspiring.” The Flagler Animal Hospital and Salty Paws Animal Hospital examined and treated the cats with health issues. Flagler Humane Society veterinarians and Dr. Shelby Wolfe from Granada Animal Hospital provided spay and neuter services. Community Cats of Palm Coast provided supplies and volunteers.
Cats that will be available at the Aug. 17 adoption event at the Flagler Humane Society. Courtesy photos
After some of the cats gave birth after the rescue, the number of adoptable cats grew to over 100. Flagler Humane Society Executive Director
Amy Carotenuto said 10 of the cats were distributed to the Halifax Humane Society. “They are beautiful cats,” Carotenuto said. “They are
Pioneering female Air Force pilot mourned by her wild cat After refusing to come into the house at first, Benji has made a home in Georgette Joubert’s red chair next to her framed picture. ABBIE PACE CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Georgette Joubert died on March 16, 2024, at the age of 90. Since then, her red living room chair has taken on a quiet meaning. Benji, the somewhat feral cat that used to only bond with her, has hardly left the chair since, and now calls it home. “She was God’s gift to the world,” Joubert’s widower, Gene Yavorski, said of Georgette. “I still can’t get her out of my mind. This is why I got these pictures all over the house here, reminding me of her and the times that we had
Benji the cat, with Georgette Joubert’s photo. Courtesy photo
together.” Joubert, a Canadian-born scholar and trailblazer, held a PhD in French and was one of the first female pilots in the Royal Canadian Air Force. In one flight, the engine fell off the plane mid-air, sending the aircraft into a spiral. It crashed into a swamp, but Joubert emerged unharmed except for a broken fingernail that she complained about,
Yavorski said. “That was Georgette. She was always leading people because she had a brilliant, brilliant mind. Just a very unusual person,” Yavorksi said. She quickly built a reputation for herself in her professional life. “She was so well received. In two weeks, she was asked to go up to be an assistant to
the CEO of L’Oréal,” Yavorski said. When she was asked for a personal favor she found inappropriate, she refused and resigned without hesitation, Yavorski said. Joubert was also quite active here in the Palm Coast area. She belonged to the Matanzas River Yacht Club for 35 years. She was the club’s commodore and longstanding editor of High Tide Low Tide, the club’s monthly newsletter. For 22 years, Yavorski assisted with newsletter delivery and managed party setup for the club. It was entirely by chance that Yavorski and Joubert met in 1997. Georgette was introduced to him by a buyer while Yavorski was selling his sailboat after losing his wife. “I needed a wife, and she needed some money,” he joked. Their bond swiftly developed into a long-lasting partnership. That same rare
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connection extended to Benji, a cat with what the breeder called an untamable nature. “The breeder told us that this is not a cat. This is an animal and it has a wild heart. It will not come to you. It will not be a lap cat,” Yavorski said. “But ... as soon as Benji was able to be on her own, she stuck to Georgette. She just fell in love with her. And Georgette fell in love with the cat.” Benji refused to venture inside the house following Joubert’s death. For months, the cat stayed outside, coming in only during storms. “If there was lightning and thunder, she’d meow at the door. I’d let her in, and she’d stay until the storm was over. Then meow, meow — back outside,” Javorski said. About nine months after Joubert’s death, Yavorski brought her favorite red chair into the living room and placed a large framed photo of
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gorgeous medium-haired cats. A lot of them are white. They are used to people. They’re comfortable with us. “We had quite a few empty cages when this started,” she said. “We put up a 4-foot by 4-foot tent in my office with shelves for 15 cats, so there are 15 cats in my office that are not in cages.” The cats have been receiving vaccinations, getting microchipped, treated for parasite prevention, tested for leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus and getting spayed and neutered. Carotenuto said they should all be ready to be adopted by the Aug. 17 event.
her on it. “Then all of a sudden, Benji is at the door,” Javorksi said. “It’s not thundering or lightning. Why is this cat meowing to come in?” Benji strolled inside and paused a few steps away from the chair. Yavorski described how she approached gently, placed her paws on the seat, and examined Georgette’s photo. She then leaped to her feet, proceeded to the picture, sniffed it, turned around, bowed her head and closed her eyes. Benji has made the chair her resting spot since that day. “Now that’s her place,” Yavorski said. “She simply remains there as if she is aware of it, as if she were with Georgette.” For Yavorski, the sight of Benji in the chair offers quiet reassurance. The chair is no longer just furniture, it is a small altar of memory and love, silently honoring a woman whose presence was strong enough to tame even the wildest of hearts.
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach
YOUR TOWN Rotary Club of Flagler
County celebrates service at installation
The Rotary Club of Flagler County held its annual installation dinner recently, honoring the accomplishments of club members and installing the 2025-26 board of directors and foundation board. The following club members were recognized for exemplifying the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self:” Rookie of the Year: Sterling Young Rotarian of the Year: Susan Steadman Hall of Fame Award: Mike Kuypers Significant Service Award: Bob and Pat Knight Service Above Self Award: Jeanette Loftus Club Service Project: Marcus Duffy, Derrick Hardin, and Maralee Walsh-McDaniel. Also honored were the Club’s newest Paul Harris Fellows. “The Paul Harris Fellow recognition is one of Rotary’s most meaningful honors,” said Michelle Bartlome, club president. “Each $1,000 contribution helps fund Rotary Foundation programs from clean water and maternal health to education and peace-building efforts around the globe. It reflects a deep commitment to service and belief in a better world.” The Club recognized the younger generation of leaders, welcoming the Early Act Club President from Bunnell Elementary, Lucy Page, and the Interact Club President from Flagler Palm Coast High School, Hannah Zublionis. “Students in these clubs are working hard to better our community,” said Bartlome. “It’s wonderful for the club presidents to have joined our installation dinner to share their accomplishments. We are proud of these young students, who are living a life of service above self.” With new leadership, continued legacy, and exciting plans on the horizon, the Rotary Club of Flagler County is looking forward to the year ahead.
2025-26 Rotary Club of Flagler County Board of Directors and Foundation Board, district governor 6970 and assistant governor. Courtesy photos
“We will continue to serve, to inspire and to make a difference,” Bartlome said. “We will celebrate the 20th annual Fantasy Lights in Palm Coast and we are going to make it big! We are celebrating Nov. 29 through Dec. 30, with a special celebration planned for Dec. 20. This will include a proclamation from the City of Palm Coast, sponsorship appreciation night, and more fun.” For a list of individuals who received a Paul Harris Fellow recognition and the new board of directors, visit the Club’s website: https:// flaglerrotary.org/
Hammock Beach Golf Resort hosts inaugural photo contest for Food & Wine Classic The Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa is hosting its first photography contest to celebrate its third annual Food & Wine Classic. The resort is seeking 10-12 photographers to photograph the event on Sept. 12 and 13 for the contest, according to an announcement on the resort’s website. The contest invites select photographers “capture the essence of the experience through their own creative lens.” To apply, photographers must be
at least 21 years of age and fill out the participation request form on the resort website by Aug. 13. Selected participants will be notified by Aug. 15 and assigned a time during the event weekend to photograph, the website said.. Contestants will need to submit their event photos by Oct. 1 and the winners will be announced on Oct. 3. Potential prizes include a five-night stay at Hammock Beach, resort dining experiences and overnight getaways, the website said. Winners will also have the chance to see their work featured on Hammock Beach’s website, social media, and in future marketing materials.
Turtle hatchlings rescued by Flagler County Fire Rescue
Five leatherback sea turtle hatchlings are in the care of Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience following their journey across State Road A1A near Beverly Beach and became trapped in two storm drains at the Oceanside Condominiums. Flagler Turtle Patrol contacted Flagler County Fire Rescue about noon, and the rescue began. Jenn Jakush from the Turtle Patrol directed Fire Rescue crews – Battalion 40 and Engine 40 – to two separate storm
Flagler County Fire Rescue employees rescued five baby sea turtles from a storm drain.
drains, each about 6 feet deep. Heavy drain covers were removed, gas masks were donned, ladders were placed, and firefighters climbed down to retrieve the five hatchlings – which were carefully removed and placed into plastic containers for safety. “It’s an especially good day when we can help rescue some of our beloved baby sea turtles,” Fire Rescue Capt. Mike Pius said.
The rescued turtles were then transported to Whitney Lab for evaluation and rehabilitation, with the hope that they may be returned to the ocean soon. Almost immediately afterward, the crews were called to a vehicle crash on Interstate 95, the press release said. For more information, Flagler Turtle Patrol can be reached at flaglerturtlepatrol@gmail.com.
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
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The Shape of Water restaurant could still open in 2025, in The Hammock One of the major hurdles preventing the restaurant from opening was a connection to Palm Coast’s sewer services, which will be available by the end of 2025. SIERRA WILLIAMS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
After years of work, The Hammock’s The Shape of Water restaurant could be opening by the end of 2025. “I’m going to try to make it this year,” owner Brent Bruns said. The Shape of Water is a themed destination restaurant Bruns was first inspired to open back in 2016. He has spent years working with an artist designing and building a water-themed grotto at 5047 N. Oceanshore Blvd., complete with waterfalls, mood lighting, music and winding rivers. Bruns said he was inspired to create The Shape of Water after he met artist Jennifer Butler who created the life-like tree sculptures that decorate the grotto, using concrete. The two worked together to build The Shape of Water’s rivers, bridges, trees and waterfalls. When all is said and done, he said, The Shape of Water will have the capability to serve 300 people between the indoor and outdoor seating, though Bruns said he will need to purchase a neighboring property to expand the parking first. “I’ve reached that point that I can probably open with 40 [seating capacity],” Bruns said. Bruns said he hopes to build a restaurant that is an expe-
rience, from the atmosphere to the food to the service. “I want to give them something that they haven’t received in a long time,” he said. THE RIGHT CONNECTIONS
The main holdup on opening The Shape of Water, he said, has been twofold: finding a restaurateur investor and getting the property hooked up to sewer with Palm Coast’s utilities. Most properties in The Hammock area have a septic system to handle sewage on the properties. But septic systems limit how much outdoor space can be used, as the properties are required to keep the septic fields clear. For Bruns to build his outdoor grotto and expand his seating to more than 40 occupancy, the county said he needed to connect to the city utility system. The problem, Bruns said, was that it would have cost him between $300,000 and $400,000 to extend the city’s sewer lines far enough to connect to the restaurant. But after years of discussion with both the county and the city, the problem could be solved in just a matter of months. Palm Coast began extending its sewer connection service into The Hammock at the beginning of 2025, according to an email from Palm Coast Communications Director Brittany Kershaw and Utility Development Manager Stephen Flanagan. GPS Civil is the project’s contractor, and CPH is the design engineer. Phase 1 of the project — which is along State Road A1A, from Jungle Hut Road to MalaCompra Road — is around 75% complete. Phase 2 — from MalaCompra to the southern town limits of Marineland — is in design. The project should be com-
pleted by the end of 2025, the email said, and businesses are able to begin the connection process now. All residential and business connections will need to pay impact fees to be connected to Palm Coast’s utility lines. Bruns and Palm Coast have been in contact for several years about connecting his restaurant to the sewer system. He said he will need to pay around $56,000 in impact fees to get his business connected. Beyond the sewer connection and finishing the permitting with Flagler County, there is not much work left to do before he’s ready for the grand opening: The commercial kitchen needs to be finished, some equipment installed and Bruns will sooner than later need to purchase a neighboring lot to expand the available parking space. To expand the property, Bruns said he will need an investor and he’s begun the search to find the right person willing to get involved.
variety of appetizers and drinks. In the meantime, Bruns said he is focused on spreading the word about The Shape of Water and building it into an experience customers won’t forget. The restaurant is open to private tours and, if they supply their own food, events. He said he’s also opened the space, for free, to one or two couples at a time to come in and enjoy a meal they provide for themselves. Bruns said he is trying to create a unique, themed destination restaurant. Looking at the restaurants that have been around the longest, he said, it is the unique ones that last. “It may be harder, but it guarantees your success,” Bruns said.
Owner Brent Bruns added Guinevere’s Gastropub to his restaurant, The Shape of Water. Photos by Sierra Williams
‘FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION’
Despite all the hiccups and obstacles, Bruns said he never once considered giving up his restaurant. “That is my motto: Failure is not an option,” Bruns said. “You only fail the last time you try.” Instead, as he continues working toward opening day, Bruns dreams of how The Shape of Water will grow and expand. He said he hopes to be able to build other Shape of Water restaurants in St. Augustine, Jacksonville and Orlando. He’s designed the menu to be a French-inspired steak and seafood restaurant, even crafting his own recipes to add to it. He even recently added a gastropub, named Guinevere’s, that will serve a
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Palm Coast mayor’s shot at best, as is the current misdeeds, council’s request for the governor to missteps led to chaos suspend the mayor. Given the Dear Editor: A cohesive City Council provides a sense of stability for the community. It sends a message that the city is well managed and its leaders are focused on problem solving rather than problem creating. Palm Coast does not have that and hasn’t had it for over eight months. A prolonged sense of City Council rancor and instability has prevailed instead. Our mayor’s misdeeds have led to council missteps. Serious and unprecedented distractions and conspiracy theories have become the norm, resulting in a severely divided council and community. Profound chaos has replaced any sense of unity and even rational behavior. The onset is clearly attributable to the mayor’s actions and behavior early on, but the council’s reactions were at times ill-conceived. The council should have stopped while they were ahead with two unanimous censures, a unanimous vote of no confidence and a big win against the mayor’s frivolous lawsuit against the city. But their missteps were the Ethics Commission complaint, which was a long
facts and well documented evidence supporting the mayor’s problematic behavior and misdeeds are and will remain solid, and the mayor’s lawsuit was handily defeated, going further was not well thought out, and it was overkill by the council. Will there ever be a cohesive council? Was the mayor’s bad behavior just an anomaly? Don’t count on it. He’s a destabilizing force. It’s who he is. It’s baked in. And although there were misdeeds and missteps by all, the mayor remains the origin of and bears responsibility for a now fractured City Council. MARGARET MINUTAGLIO Palm Coast
His very presence on the City Council has been clouded by controversy, legal challenges and an ever-growing public distrust. Now, without ever having stood before voters in a single election, he’s aiming for a $174,000-a-year seat in the U.S. Congress? Gambaro’s leap from an unelected City Council appointment to a federal campaign reeks of political opportunism. The voters of Florida’s 6th District deserve better. BRIAN SINGER Flagler County
Editor’s Note: Circuit Judge Chris France said of Gambaro’s appointment: “Although the result is flawed, the charter was complied with to fill the vacancy.”
We deserves better than unelected councilman in Congress
Possibility of a ‘real’ golf course in Flagler Beach is great for the city
Dear Editor: Charles Gambaro’s decision to run for Congress is nothing short of audacious. This is a man who was never elected by the people of Palm Coast. He was appointed through a questionable process that bypassed the will of the voters.
Dear Editor: As a Flagler Beach resident I am thrilled to hear that a real golf course and facility is possibility in the works. I worked in the golf business and enjoyed five great years at River Bend Golf Club. Sadly all golf courses are now closed in Ormond Beach
along with Indigo Lakes close by. I also enjoyed playing the game but found giving five to six hours on a weekend became not enjoyable. The idea of a short 12-hole course is a breath of fresh air along with practice areas and restaurant. Revenue for the city, benefiting real estate around the course and area is a good thing. Hopefully there will be a chance to grow the game perhaps with First Tee and encouraging junior golf, because that is the future of the game. I look forward to seeing this move forward and getting back to the game that I loved. Also not having to cross the bridge to play golf again. Fore! CHRIS SCARANO Flagler Beach
Editor’s Note: The Flagler Beach City Commission agreed on July 10 to negotiate with Ocean Palms Golf Club LLC and principal manager Jeff Ryan for the purchase of the city-owned nine-hole golf course at 3600 S. Central Ave. The ownership group plans to redesign the course to a 12-hole configuration. Send letters to brent@ observerlocalnews.com. Include first and last name, as well as city of residence. Editor may alter the letter for clarity and /or length.
Do dogs smile? Maybe not in the traditional sense AMY CAROTENUTO CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Can dogs smile? Most animal experts don’t really consider that a dog will “smile” in the traditional sense. However, most of the time when dogs have that wide-mouth panting with tongue out, front teeth showing, sometimes a slightly upturned expression paired with relaxed body posture, soft eyes and a wagging tail, they are indeed happy. So it’s easy to relate that expression to human smiles. A dog’s smile can stem from the fact that dogs recognize human facial expressions and tend to mirror them. In short, your dog is watching your face, and when you smile, they might try to match that energy. Then when we react
by giving praise or treats — the dog is rewarded for this behavior and does it more often. Dog smiles are more than just cute — they’re a part of how dogs communicate with us and with each other. Another form of a “dog smile” can be a “submissive grin,” which is a dog’s way of letting you know they are not a threat. This is much like how dogs lower their tail or lie down and expose their belly to indicate they know you’re the boss. Your dog may also give a submissive grin if you want them to do something they don’t want to do — such as take a B-A-T-H. Your dog is essentially saying “please don’t make me take a bath.” Or perhaps you came home to a torn-up couch cushion, or a trash bin strewn through the
house. That submissive grin, coupled with the lowered head and tail between the legs lets you know who the guilty party is ... but who can be mad at that face? The submissive grin has worked to defuse the situation. Submissive grins show the front teeth but not the longer canine teeth or “fangs.” If a dog bares his canine teeth, that’s a whole different story. A dog may look like it’s smiling during rigorous play or a brisk walk, but the “smile” could simply be your dog panting. Happy panting typically involves relaxed muscles, an open mouth, and a tongue hanging out as a way of cooling down. Watch always for overheating. A panting dog who is overheated may have bright red gums due to increased blood flow, or
pale gums due to shock. They may show signs of tension in their body or face. So, OK, maybe dogs can smile, but do they laugh? The equivalent to laughter for a dog appears to be a sound that dogs make while playing. This “play pant” is a breathy, forced exhalation of air that dogs use to initiate play. Just like laughter reduces stress in humans, this “play pant” also can reduce stress in dogs. There’s even been research done with recordings of dogs playing and the “play panting” sounds lowering the stress level of other dogs. By learning canine body language and paying attention to the cues and signals that dogs give, we can better understand and communicate with our canine family members, strengthening the
We build community spirit and bridges of understanding through accurate and compelling journalism. We build the local economy by helping businesses strategically connect with our print and online readers. Publisher Brian McMillan, brian@observerlocalnews.com Managing Editor Jarleene Almenas, jarleene@ observerlocalnews.com Associate Editor Brent Woronoff, brent@observerlocalnews.com Operation and Design Manager Hailey McMillan, hailey@observerlocalnews.com Marketing Consultants April Koehler, akoehler@ observerlocalnews.com; Travis Hurlbut, Travis@ observerlocalnews.com Office Coordinator Kay Raymond, Kay@observerlocalnews.com SUBSCRIBE For driveway delivery, visit www.observerlocalnews.com/ subscribe. TO ADVERTISE Call the office at 386-447-9723, or reach out to a marketing consultant above. Locally Owned / Publishers of the Palm Coast Observer McMillan Ink LLC 50 Leanni Way, Unit C3 Palm Coast, FL 32137
DEATH NOTICE Douglas J. Patterson, 80, of Palm Coast, passed away on July 23, 2025 in Indiana. Full obituary at www.waskoms.com
“Sky,” is a staff favorite at the Flagler Humane Society, partially because of that smile of hers. She is completely housetrained and up for adoption. Courtesy photo
human/animal bond. We can all agree that our dogs make us smile, laugh and bring joy to our lives. Let’s hope that we can do the same for them. Amy Carotenuto is the executive director of Flagler Humane Society.
YOUR TOWN
Gianna Capri Courtesy photo
Ormond Beach girl is first Miss Florida Jr. All American An Ormond Beach girl won the state title during the junior division of the Miss All American Pageant, held over the past weekend in South Carolina. Gianna Capri, who competed representing Volusia County, is the first Miss Florida Jr. All American, according to a press release.
“Being crowned the first Miss Florida Jr All American is exciting and I look forward to an amazing year with my fellow state and national winners,” Gianna said. She will partner with the Miss All American system in her upcoming annual Holiday Christmas Toy Drive. A total of 115 women participated in this year’s pageant. To follow Gianna’s journey, visit @missfljuniorallamerican on Instagram.
AUGUST 7, 2025
YOUR NEIGHBORS
Back t school Free lunch, sales tax holiday, cell phones turned off
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
With just over a week remaining before Flagler County students return to school on Aug. 11, hundreds of families attended the Back to School Jam on Saturday, Aug. 2, inside Flagler Palm Coast High School’s gym. The event featured over 70 vendors, district administrators and representatives from each school. Families could register their students for school, grab school supplies, get their transportation schedules and learn about extracurricular activities. This year, school breakfast and lunch are free to all Flagler Schools students again thanks to the Community Eligibility Provision administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Students will need their Student ID Cards. Florida’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday will run through August. Tax exemptions include school supplies selling for $50 or less, clothing and backpacks priced at $100 or less, learning aids selling for $30 or less and computers and accessories selling for $1,500 or less. State statute now prohibits cell phone use for the entire
school day for middle and elementary school students. Flagler Schools had already prohibited cell phone use in elementary schools. Here’s a school-by-school look at what’s new this school year. Flagler Palm Coast High School: “We are excited about the newest members of our team,” Principal Bobby Bossardet said. Over 50 FPC alumni are working at the school in some capacity, including Bossardet himself and Assistant Principal Stacia Collier. FPC increased its overall school grade by 30 points in 2024-25 with every single area seeing academic growth. Matanzas High School: The Pirates have a new principal in Mike Rinaldi, who had been the district’s coordinator of professional standards. Rinaldi has 25 years of education experience in Volusia and Flagler counties. Matanzas has added an Allied Health medical program preparing students for careers in the medical field. The program had been available at FPC only. Buddy Taylor Middle School: Buddy Taylor’s Katie Hansen is the other new principal in the county. She
Bunnell Elementary School Principal Cari McGee (center) with staff and PTO representatives.
Belle Terre Elementary School PTO Vice President Crystal Gallo, PTO President Corinne Shaefer and Assistant Principal Tim Ruddy.
Students of Rogue Combatives self-defense and martial arts school in Palm Coast.
received the news during her vacation in Hawaii. “It was a great place to be told you have a promotion,” she said. Hansen had been an assistant principal at Indian Trails Middle School. She said the new bell-to-bell cell phone restriction won’t be a huge change. “We’re making sure we’re communicating (the policy),” she said. Indian Trails Middle School: ITMS has two new
Cheerleading/tumbling athletes with Jags All-Stars Athletics. Photos by Brent Woronoff
Thanks to our Back to School sponsor:
assistant principals in Ida Sierra and Efrain Gutierrez. The Mustangs are welcoming in over 400 new sixth graders, Principal Ryan Andrews said. iFlagler Virtual School: The biggest change with iFlagler is not virtual. It has moved into Flagler Schools’ Engagement Center at the historic county courthouse. “This gives us more opportunities to invite kids to campus,” Assistant Principal Scott Bannon said. “We had restricted opportunities at the old campus (at FPC). Now with more space, kids can come to meet with their teacher in small groups or one-on-one.”
New Buddy Taylor Middle School Principal Katie Hansen and Assistant Principal Danielle Carlson.
iFlagler has 136 full-time students and hundreds part-time who take one or two classes at one of the middle schools or high schools,” Principal Erin Quinn said. Flagler Technical College: FTC is offering Spanish and sewing lessons at its A1A Center at 5633 N. Oceanshore Blvd. FTC is also running Aqua Splash and Aqua Fusion water aerobic classes for seniors at the Belle Terre Swim and Racquet Club pool. The pool has open swim 9 a.m.-3p.m. on Saturdays. Belle Terre Elementary School: Lisa Gilbert joins Tim Ruddy as assistant principals. Jessica DeFord enters her sixth year as principal. The school is celebrating its 20th year with the theme, “Once Upon a Time.” Bunnell Elementary School: BES has new technology for its garden and culinary program’s cooking show. The technology will also be used for the school’s new news crew, Principal Cari McGee said. Old Kings Elementary School: PE teacher JanMichael Scott is starting an after-school flag football program. The marine science club’s partnership with the Flagler County Education Foundation and 4-H continues. The marine science and art teachers are collaborating to bring arts into the marine science career program.
Rymfire Elementary School: Rymfire is celebrating it’s 20th anniversary. with the theme “Legacy of learning, 20 years strong.” Rymfire has a partnership with AdventHealth for fourth and fifth graders in its medical sciences, health and fitness career program. The school is aiming for an A grade after missing it by two points in 2024-25. Rymfire Elementary School: Rymfire is celebrating its 20th anniversary. with the theme “Legacy of learning, 20 years Tim Roberts and children Theo and Selene Kast, who are entering the second and fourth grade, respectively, at Belle Terre Elementary School.
strong.” Rymfire has a partnership with AdventHealth for fourth and fifth graders in its medical sciences, health and fitness career program. The school is aiming for an A grade after missing it by two points in 2024-25. Wadsworth Elementary School: Wadsworth has a new assistant principal in Rachel Hayes and a new dean in Emily Creel. It will also get new playground equipment for kindergarten and first grade this year. The current playground equipment was original when the school was built, Principal Amy Neuenfeldt said.
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
LOCAL EVENTS
Atlantic Ocean. Bring binoculars and a camera for photo opportunities. Entrance into the park is $5 per vehicle. Call 386-517-2086.
THURSDAY, AUG. 7
SATURDAY, AUG. 9
RECIPES AND READS CULINARY LAB: THE CULTURE AND HISTORY OF FOOD — AFTERNOON TEA When: 3 p.m. Where: Ormond Beach Regional Public Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach Details: Enjoy iced tea while learning more about the history of tea, presented by library staff. Free event.
FRIDAY, AUG. 8
MOONRISE AT THE BEACH When: 7:45-8:30 p.m. Where: Gamble Rogers Memorial State Park, 3100 S Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach Details: Take in the view of the moon rising over the
LOCAL BRANDS ANNUAL FISHING EXPO When: 8 a.m. to noon Where: Social Club of Palm Coast, 51 Old Kings Road North, Palm Coast Details: Join the Flagler Sportfishing Club for its annual fishing expo. Get advice and see local vendors under one roof. Free admission. WOMEN’S PRAYER BREAKFAST When: 9-11 a.m. Where: First Baptist Church of Palm Coast, Activities Center, 6050 Palm Coast Parkway NW, Palm Coast Details: Attend a morning of fellowship, food and faith. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. Free
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach
admission. RSVP requested. Visit fbcpc.org. FLAGLER COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE SAFETY EXPO When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Where: European Village, 101 Palm Harbor Parkway, Palm Coast Details: Join Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly and the FCSO for their annual safety expo. Learn safety information, meet the FCSO team and enjoy some family fun. CARRYING HOPE BACK 2 SCHOOL When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Where: South Ormond Neighborhood Center, 176 Division Ave., Ormond Beach Details: Attend educational sessions, receive school supplies and enjoy games and food at this back-to-school event presented by Access to Excellence Global Inc.
HISTORY IN THE PARK When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Where: James F. Holland Memorial Park, 18 Florida Park Drive N., Palm Coast Details: The Palm Coast Historical Society is hosting this family-friendly event. Explore the Palm Coast Historical Society Museum, which has free admission. Outside, enjoy yard games and food trucks.
Where: Universalist Unitarian Church, 56 N. Halifax Dr., Ormond Beach Details: This month’s guest speaker is Jeff Boyle, awardwinning author of literary fiction. He will speak about the creative writing process. The public is invited. An option $5 lunch will follow. For more information, call 386-341-9013.
PIRATE GAME NIGHT When: 6-9 p.m. Where: Palm Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE, Palm Coast Details: Join the Seawolf Privateers for a Plunder Game Night, an evening of games and giving back. Tickets cost $50. Proceeds support foster and displaced children in the Flagler community. Visit seawolfprivateers.org/fundraisers.
TIGER BAY CLUB OF VOLUSIA COUNTY When: 12-1 p.m. Where: Halifax River Yacht Club, 331 S. Beach St., Daytona Beach Details: This month’s guest speaker will be U.S. Rep. Randy Fine. Social time begins at 11:30 a.m. and the luncheon is at noon. Guests are welcome with a reservation. Email dconnors@tigerbayclubvolusia.org.
SUNDAY, AUG. 10
‘SMALL AND MIGHTY’ OPENING RECEPTION When: 12-3:30 p.m. Where: Expressions Art Gallery, inside Grand Living Realty building, 2298 Colbert Lane, Palm Coast Details: See artwork by Trish Vevera and Bettie Eubanks. Reception is free and open to al. Refreshments will bbe served.
TUESDAY, AUG. 12
2025 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS BREAKFAST & EXPO When: 9 a.m. to noon Where: Palm Coast Community Center, 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE, Palm Coast Details: Attend this free event to learn how to be ready in the event of a disaster. Doors open at 8 a.m. for a continental breakfast. Speakers will begin at 9 a.m. The first 100 attendees will receive hurricane preparedness kits. Free and open to the public.
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 13 AARP MEETING When: 10 a.m. to noon
THURSDAY, AUG. 14
ART OF HEALING WORKSHOP: FELTED SOAP When: 2-3:30 p.m. Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach Details: Guest instructor Liz Canali will lead this workshop where participants will explore how wool becomes felt and learn the process of felting to create a useful soap and washcloth combo. No art experience is necessary and all supplies are provided. Free admission. Registration required. Visit www.ormondartmuseum.org/classesprograms.
FRIDAY, AUG. 15
TURTLE TALK When: 10-11 a.m. Where: Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreational Area, 3100 S. Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach Details: Learn about the role sea turtles play in Florida and how your actions can help preserve these animals for generations. All ages welcome. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Park entry fee applies.
SATURDAY, AUG. 16
GOD’S FAMILY BIBLE CHURCH PANTRY FOOD DISTRIBUTION When: 10-11 a.m. Where: Parking lot across Gods Family Bible Church, 256 Old Brick Road, Bunnell Details: God’s Family Bible Church distributes food every first and third Saturday in this drive-thru event. GALLERY TALK WITH CHANNING GRAY When: 11 a.m. to noon Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach Details: Exhibiting artist Channing Gray will present an in-depth talk about her solo exhibition, “Into Neverland: Swirling Dreams of Southern Memories.” A Q+A session will follow. Free program. Registration requested. Visit www.ormondartmuseum.org/ classes-programs.
ONGOING
WOMEN’S BOOK CLUB When: 12:30-2 p.m. every Tuesday Where: Central Baptist Church, 152 Fairview Ave., Daytona Beach Details: Join this book club, which meets in the Marchman Building, room 117. Contact Sylvia Meincke at 386-4515223. MOAS EXHIBITIONS When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday Where: Museum of Arts and Sciences, 352 S. Nova Road, Daytona Beach Details: Want to spend a day looking at fine art? The Museum of Arts and Sciences has the following shows on display: “Bugs Outside the Box: Discover the Art Within the Sciences” ; “Shoosty Bugs: An Art Infestation” ; and “It’s a Ship Show: Florida’s Maritime Canvas.”
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
In eight weeks, JROTC cadet earns private pilot’s license Starting with virtually no experience, Jasmine Vitkauskas completed the program at Indiana Wesleyan University. BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Flagler Palm Coast High School Air Force Junior ROTC cadet Jasmine Vitkauskas participated in the intensive eight-week JROTC Flight Academy this summer and came home on July 24 with her private pilot’s license. She had virtually no previous experience flying a plane before she began the program at Indiana Wesleyan University. Three weeks in, she was flying solo. “When (the flight instructor) thought I was ready, he got out of the plane and it was just me in there. I was like, ‘Wow, I’m about to do this by myself.’ It was really weird, but it was also kind of freeing, because then it’s just you and the plane,” she said. “You can make your own decisions, just knowing that everything
Jasmine Vitkauskas takes the controls during her flight Academy at Indiana Wesleyan University. Courtesy photo
you do is impacting how the plane is flying. So it’s really a confidence booster. It’s like, ‘Wow, I can do this.’” Her experience in the program turned out to be even better than she expected, she said. “I knew it was going to be awesome, but I didn’t realize how awesome it was,” she said. “When I say, I didn’t have a boring day, I did not have a boring day. I flew all the time.” Vitkauskas first heard about about the Flight Academy
during the summer before her sophomore year. But she couldn’t apply until she turned 17. Fellow FPC cadet Josh Fallon had just completed the program in which selected cadets receive full scholarships at an accredited aviation university. “(Fallon) talked about his experience and he said it was really amazing, because he wanted to be a pilot and he had a whole plan from there,” Vitkauskas said. “I thought that could be me.” TWO FPC CADETS SELECTED THIS YEAR
Fallon is now entering his junior year in the Air Force ROTC program at Auburn University. He is planning to become a pilot in the Air Force, said Lt. Col. Melvin Baskerville, FPC’s senior JROTC instructor. Vitkauskas applied for a spot in the Flight Academy earlier this year. Out of more than 1,200 cadets nationwide who applied this year, just 194 were accepted. Two were from FPC — Vitkauskas and Jillian Rivera, who graduated from FPC this spring.
FOCUS ON FAITH Lifecoast Church in Palm Coast leads humanitarian, ministering mission in Belize On July 12, members from the Lifecoast Church in Palm Coast traveled to Belize on a humanitarian and ministering mission. Pastor Brian Kingsley
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led the team that provided labor, service and spiritual guidance. His wife, Jeanette Kingsley, led the team of nurses that provided free medical care to the village of Concepcion. According to a social media post, the team was “able to serve in powerful and tangible ways.” 104 patients received medical care, two with life-threat-
ening illnesses 50 children attended the organized Vacation Bible School focusing on Christ’s love 1,100 concrete blocks were laid and 1,760 lbs of cement mixed for a service project 25 families were blessed with food to sustain them for a month Six people were baptized Lifecoast Church thanked
Rivera is entering her freshman year at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach. She earned her private pilot’s license in the Flight Academy at Delta State University in Mississippi. The application process to the Flight Academy is rigorous and competitive. “The cadets take an aviation qualification test and they also look at your grade point average and teacher and guidance counselor recommendations. They look at the whole-person concept for the students who earn this scholarship,” Baskerville said. Vitkauskas will be taking a leadership role in FPC’s JROTC program as a senior this school year, Baskerville said. She will be deputy group commander, which is second in command of the school’s 145 cadets. Earning her private pilot’s license through the Flight Academy’s accelerated program has improved her confidence, Baskerville said. “She passed with flying colors and she was able to earn her wings,” he said.
NEXT STEPS TO HER GOAL
Vitkauskas was one of 18 students in the program at Indiana Wesleyan. “Obviously it was a way quicker pace than a lot of other private pilots who get their licenses,” she said. “It was a little more ground school rather than focusing on flying at first. So we usually flew one hour a day and did ground school for one hour a day, and we had an online portion of ground school. We learned the basics of flying. We learned about weather. We learned about different systems in the airplane. When we took our FAA written exam, all of us passed. “There was a lot of studying involved,” she said. “We got a lot of help from all the (certified flight instructors) and other cadets. We helped each other a lot. So, it was really nice getting that connection with other people working towards the same goal as you, because we were all very passionate about it. It was definitely a different environment that I enjoyed. Everybody passed their check ride too, so everyone is a pri-
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their supporters, stating: “From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your incredible prayers, generosity, and support for our Belize mission trip…Because of you, lives were touched in ways we could have never imagined.” Building faith builds the community! Send your church or synagogue news to brian@ observerlocalnews.com.
Ormond Beach church launches ministry for seniors Carol Brown, a member of the Salty Church of Ormond Beach is launching a new ministry program entitled “Seniors at Salty”. This ministry will focus on “caring for, connecting with, and celebrating the seniors”
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vate pilot, all 18 of us.” The only flight experience she had going into the program was doing two Civil Air Patrol orientation flights at Flagler Executive Airport. The Civil Air Patrol provides the opportunity for FPC cadets to fly with an instructor in a Cessna 172. The instructor flies two cadets at a time. “They’ll all get their hands on the flight controls and fly the plane with an instructor/ pilot on board,” Baskerville said. That experience gave Vitkauskas her motivation to become a pilot. Her next step, she said, is to earn other ratings, such as her instrument rating. Her goal is to become a commercial pilot and eventually work her way up to becoming an Airline Transportation Pilot, the highest level of pilot certification. Right now she is looking for ways to get more flight experience. “Obviously the scholarship was completely free,” she said. “Right now my family and I are figuring out how I can continue flying and get started on my other ratings. My goal is to fly at least once a month. But we still have to figure out how exactly I can to do that. We are currently researching.”
Stephenson, Wilcox and Associates in their community. The program will match volunteers with a senior (person sixty years of age or older). Those volunteers will then give the little extra help that is needed. Every match is personal and is there to help both individuals. To learn more, visit salty. org/seniors. — ELIZABETH MOORE
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach
BUSINESS Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids opens in Ormond Beach, with 186 appointments The newest Sharkey’s franchise, which features novelty cars and X-box stations, set a record for appointments made ahead of its three-day grand opening. BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Brianna Garcia of Bunnell used to travel to Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids in Winter Park to get a haircut for her 3-year-
old son, Brantley Cucco. They would often stop for a haircut on the way to Disney World. It was worth it, Garcia said. But now, she only has to drive about 25 minutes to the new Sharkey’s in Ormond Beach. On Friday, Aug. 1, Brantley sat in the Spider-Man car to get a wash, cut and blow dry at the new Sharkey’s Cuts or Kids Ormond Beach at 1345 Granada Blvd., Unit 7. Brantley was one of the first customers at the Ormond Beach salon, which held its ribbon cutting on Friday morning. The grand opening was set to last three days, Friday-Sunday, with visits
Owner Danielle Summa cuts the ribbon at the grand opening of Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids Ormond Beach.
Brantley Cucco, 3, gets a haircut in the Spider-Man car at Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids Ormond Beach. Brantley was one of the first appointments on Aug. 1, the first day of their grand opening. Photos by Brent Woronoff
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scheduled from Cinderella, Elsa and Ariel, and SpiderMan swinging in all three days. Not having a local Sharkey’s was also the inspiration for owner Danielle Summa to open the new store in Ormond. “We had trouble finding a place to get our girls’ hair cut,” said Summa’s husband, Paul Summa, who is the assistant general manager of Palm Coast Ford. “We found one up north, and opening one closer to home became my wife’s dream.” The growing company expects to have 214 stores nationwide by the end of the year, said Franchise Supporter Caitie Philhower. But before now, the closest store to Flagler County and Ormond Beach was in northern St. Johns County. Sharkey’s has novelty cars that toddlers can “drive” while they are getting their hair cut. They can watch cartoons and when they’re done, they receive a Sharkey’s bookmark, balloon and lollipop. Older kids can play video games at one of the Xbox stations during their cuts. Girls cuts come with a complimentary mini-cure which includes a nail polish change and a glamour ring, according to Sharkeyscutsforkids.com. For a child’s first haircut, parents receive a certificate and lock of their child’s hair
BIZ BUZZ TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN MENTEE JOINS LAW FIRM AS A SUMMER INTERN Alaria Krivoshey, a Take Stock in Children mentee, has joined Chiumento Law as a summer intern. Alaria is mentored by Diane Vidal, a partner in the firm and the head of the Probate and Estate Planning department. Take Stock in Children is a statewide program that provides deserving students with a pathway to post-secondary success through mentorship, academic support, and college scholarships. In Flagler County, the program is administered by Flagler County Education Foundation. Vidal serves as a mentor with Take Stock in Children and sits on the Legacy Committee with the Education Foundation. Her dedication to mentoring reflects her commitment to
Paul Summa leads the staff in prayer before the opening of Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids Ormond Beach.
as a keepsake. The Ormond Beach salon also has adult stations with a “glamour studio” with lighted mirrors to address blemishes. Danielle Summa said the salon had 186 appointments scheduled for the first three days before the doors even opened. That’s a national Sharkey’s record for a threeday opening event, said Philhower, who was on hand for Friday’s festivities. “It’s very difficult to get good grand openings in Florida. But they blew it out of the water,” Philhower said. Danielle Summa said every child gets a poker chip that goes in a jar at the register, representing $1 which will go to the Flagler County
Education Foundation. The Ed Foundation will be the Ormond store’s chosen charity for the first year of the business, she said. Ed Foundation Executive Director Teresa Rizzo, who had been Danielle Summa’s teacher at Flagler Palm Coast High School, was on hand for Friday’s ribbon cutting. Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids Ormond Beach will also have a back-to-school promotion throughout August with $7 off cuts, Danielle Summa said. Danielle Summa wants to open additional Sharkey’s franchises in the area, Paul Summa said. “She has a dream and wants to make it work, to own a few of these,” he said.
shaping the next generation of leaders across all professional fields. “Watching Alaria grow and now welcoming her to our firm as a summer intern is a fullcircle moment,” Vidal said in a Chiumento Law press release. “She brings curiosity, professionalism and an eagerness to learn that reflects the spirit of Take Stock in Children and everything we stand for here at Chiumento Law.” Each summer, Chiumento
Law hosts a select number of student interns. Interns are given the opportunity to shadow attorneys and assist with administrative tasks. The goal is to introduce students to career paths in law, develop workplace skills and foster civic responsibility. “As a firm deeply rooted in our community, we believe in investing in its future,” said Chiumento Law founder Mike Chiumento.
Alaria Krivoshey and Diane Vidal. Courtesy photo
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
REAL ESTATE
House in Palm Coast Plantation: $999K A
house at 31 Riverwalk Drive South, in Palm Coast Plantation, was the top real estate transaction for July 19-25 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The house sold on July 23, for $999,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 3/3 and has a pool and 2,620 square feet.
ALEXIS MILLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Condos A condo at 4600 E. Moody Blvd., Unit 11M, sold on July 24, for $138,000. Built in 2005, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,035 square feet. It sold in 2010 for $90,000.
A condo at 3600 S. Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 723, sold on July 25, for $175,000. Built in 1984, the condo is a 1/1 and has 715 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $170,000. A condo at 4600 E. Moody Blvd., Unit 6G, sold on July 23, for $173,000. Built in 2005, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,050 square feet. It sold in 2006 for $170,900. A condo at 200 Ocean Crest Drive, Unit 237, sold on July 25, for $275,000. Built in 2003, the condo is a 1/1 and has 678 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $149,900.
for $285,000. Built in 1987, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,140 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $229,000. A condo at 41 Oxford Lane sold on July 22, for $210,000. Built in 1983, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,338 square feet. It sold in 2012 for $80,000.
PALM COAST
Armand Beach A house at 40 Armand Beach Drive sold on July 25, for $760,000. Built in 2022, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 2,157 square feet. Lehigh Woods A house at 18 Royal Palm Lane sold on July 21, for $349,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool and 1,759 square feet. It sold in 2013 for $168,200.
A house at 10 Russkin Lane sold on July 21, for $339,900. Built in 2025, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,673 square feet.
A house at 8 Richel Place sold on July 22, for $254,000. Built in 1997, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,314 square feet. It sold in 2006 for $185,000. Palm Harbor A house at 11 Collinson Court sold on July 22, for $630,000. Built in 1999, the house is a 3/3 and has a boat dock, a boat house and 2,331 square feet. It sold in 2018 for $380,000. Pine Grove A house at 91 Pickering Driver sold on July 21, for $275,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,510 square feet.
A house at 61 Pittman Drive sold on July 22, for $430,000. Built in 2006, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool and 2,600 square feet. It sold in 2025 for $340,000. Seminole Woods A house at 214 Montgomery Court sold on July 25, for $335,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,896 square feet.
A house at 42 Selma Trail sold on July 21, for $270,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,385 square feet. It sold in 2015 for $110,000. Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report.
A condo at 23 Salisbury Court sold on July 24, for $170,000. Built in 1987, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,338 square feet. It sold in 2017 for $129,900. A condo at 606 Ocean Marina Drive sold on July 23,
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach
Planet e Studios presents ‘The Big Bad Musical’ at Matanzas theater The musical was directed by Hannah Pierce and Assistant Director Mackinzie Rogan. OBSERVER STAFF
Planet e Studios’ Summer Musical Theater Camp recently presented “The Big Bad Musical” at the Matanzas High School Pirate Theater. Held on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 1 and 2, the musical was directed by Hannah Pierce and Assistant Director Mackinzie Rogan. “The Big Bad Musical” told the story of the Big Bad Wolf in a courtroom setting, where he is slapped with a class-action lawsuit by fairy tale characters including Little Red Riding Hood, her grandmother, the Three Little Pigs and the Shepherd in charge of the Boy Who Cried Wolf. With multiple endings possible, every performance was unique.
Judge Wise Old Man: Avaleigh Donaldson Boy Who Cried Wolf: Luke Ferraro. Photos by Hannah Hodge
Fairy Godmother: Danielle Cox
Big Bad Wolf Clarity McGeehan, with the Wolf Pack: Lennox Belcher, Millei Rathjen, Lukas Hosier, Gabby Belcher, Daton Rathjen
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Just seconds from the beach! This 3BR/2BA Ormondby-the-Sea home offers a split floor plan, newer roof & AC, and easy coastal living. Perfect as a full-time home, vacation spot, or investment. Move-in ready and just a short stroll to the sand and surf—enjoy the best of the Ormond Beach lifestyle! #1216120 $460,000. Lindsey Wolf 407-432-3849.
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3BR/2BA, 3-car garage pool home in gated Spruce Creek Fly-In! Features tile floors, granite kitchen, spacious primary suite with garden tub & walk-in shower. Enjoy a heated saltwater pool/spa, covered lanai, and resort-style amenities including private runway, golf, tennis, pickleball & more. #1216074 $660,000. Tyler Renick 386-631-4854.
Move-in ready 3BR/2BA on a spacious corner lot in sought-after Waters Edge! Features split BR layout, open floor plan, and large kitchen with ample storage. Relax on the screened lanai. Top-rated school zone, close to parks, shopping, dining & beaches. Well maintained and ready to call home! #1216003 $359,900. Lindsay Lockhart 850-545-5520.
People enjoy music of Jimmy Buffett at Palm Coast Concert Series The Concert Series, presented by Palm Coast Ford, is held on the last Thursday of every month. OBSERVER STAFF
The Palm Coast Concert Series’ second event of the year, held on July 31, featured Jimmy Buffett tribute band Landfall at the The Stage at Town Center. The Concert Series, presented by Palm Coast Ford, is held on the last Thursday of every month from 6-8 p.m. In addition to live music, the event features food trucks, vendors, yard games and beer and wine. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair. The next Concert Series event is scheduled for Aug. 28 and will feature the Southern Rock Revival band.
Cathy Carpenter claps at the end of the song.
Blanca Bryson and Chad Bryson with their straw umbrella at the concert series.
RAYMONDE SHORES
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The three pigs: Emmely Campbell, Kenzie Lohse, Melody Richter
Fairy Godmother Danielle Cox
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Landfall, a Jimmy Buffett tribute band, plays at the concert series. Photos by Hannah Hodge
Allyse Ketter and Brian Ketter have a bean bag competition at the concert series.
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
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YOUR TOWN Ed Foundation volunteers pack 2,000 supply kits Flagler County Education Foundation volunteers packed 2,000 school supply kits for the STUFF Bus program during its annual packing day on July 23. The kits were distributed to Flagler Schools students at the Back to School Jam on Saturday, Aug. 2, at Flagler Palm Coast High School “What an incredible day of community spirit and dedication. We are absolutely thrilled with the amazing dedication of our fantastic volunteers,” Stephanie Ellis, the lead of the program, said in a press release.
Matanzas students place second at FBA competition
The Matanzas High School Future Builders of America took home a check for $1,000 for their second-place finish at the Southeast Building Conference Design/Build Competition on July 24-25 in Kissimmee. The building construction students built a portable workshop with caster wheels, a chop saw, table saw and sliding shelves. The Pirates
Matanzas High School building construction students Nolan Schmidt, Emma Guldan, Gabi Spence and Blaine Vogel accept the check for $1,000 for their second-place finish at the Future Builders of America Design/Build Competition. Courtesy photos
also placed second at the FBA competition last year. Nolan Schmidt, Gabi Spence, Blaine Vogel and recent graduate Emma Guldan accepted the prize.
Inspiration of Hope holds summer internship program
Inspiration of Hope Community Resources Inc. held a four-week paid summer internship program for ages 14-17 to train youth for future employment opportunities. The program was a success, Inspiration of Hope President Donna Easterling said, with the participants interning at Bunnell City Hall, the Carver Center’s Great Minds Summer Math and Science Camp and Bennell Elementary School. Tanya Felman interned
at Bunnell City Hall; Isaiah Chatman interned at Carver Community Center’s Great Minds summer camp; Kavion Brown interned at Bunnell Elementary School. Maryiotti Johnson was a partner in this endeavor as well. The Inspiration of Hope Community Resources life skills program for middle and high school students will begin its fall semester on Sept. 17. For registration information and packet, email IOHCR125@gmail.com.
Margarita Society of Volusia County donates $4,500
The Margarita Society of Volusia County recently presented three local nonprofits with $1,500 donations each during Christmas in July.
Participants of Inspiration of Hope Community Resources summer internship program.
The recipients were the Early Learning Coalition of Flagler and Volusia Counties, the Jewish Federation of Volusia and Flagler Counties and the FUTURES Foundation for Volusia County Schools. The contributions, totaling $4,500, came from additional proceeds collected from the Tree Sponsorship platform from last year’s annual Margarita Ball, according to a press release. The next annual Margarita Ball will be held in November at the Ocean Center. Send stories to brent@ observerlocalnews.com.
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Jewish Federation Executive Director Rabbi Rob Lennick (second from left) and representatives from the Margarita Society of Volusia County.
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach
The Casements Camera Club presents July photo assignment 2025 winners
E
ach year, The Casements Camera Club presents a special assignment to its more than 80 members, with the goal for their photos to be selected among the top five best by their club peers. This year’s assignment was “Translate an idiom or saying into a creative image,” according to a press release. All members had the opportunity to vote for their five favorites. “All entries were quite creative and it was a challenge to just pick the Top 5,” Club President Ans van Beek said. For her first place win, van Beek was awarded a complimentary club membership for 2026. All entries can be viewed on The Casements Camera Club’s website at www.casementscameraclub.com under the Events tab. –OBSERVER STAFF
THE WINNERS
“Thinking Outside the Box” by Ans van Beek. Courtesy photos
“Putting His Money Where His Mouth Is” by Jaci Hanson
First place: Ans van Beek, “Thinking Outside the Box” Second place: Joan Robinson, “It’s Raining Cats and Dogs” Third place: Jaci Hanson, “Putting His Money Where His Mouth Is” Fourth place: Donna Armstrong, “Like a Fish Out of Water” Fifth Place: Stan Mitchell, “Even a Blind Squirrel Finds a Nut Sometimes” “Even a Blind Squirrel Finds a Nut Sometimes” by Stan Mitchell “It’s Raining Cats and Dogs” by Joan Robinson
AUGUST 7, 2025
SPORTS High School football preview: Matanzas Pirates and Mainland Bucs Expectations are on the rise for the Pirates and Buccaneers. BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Last week, the Observer ran previews for the Flagler Palm Coast and Seabreeze football teams. To read the complete preseason preview for all four teams, go to http://bit. ly/4m9k2WH
MATANZAS
Last year was a rebuilding season after a strong senior class led the Pirates to the playoffs and a 7-4 record in 2023. “We took our bumps last year. But we saw progression, and a majority of the guys are coming back,” said sixth-year head coach Matt Forrest, who is Matanzas’ coaching wins leader with 25. “It’s exciting when you get groups like that. The expectation (progresses) as well. We should be a year better and a year more efficient.” The Pirates would likely have to beat perennially talented Mainland to win their three-team district, but that makes the rest of the schedule and a chance to win enough games to earn an at-large playoff berth that much more important. LAST SEASON: 4-6, 1-1 in the district. KICKOFF CLASSIC: Aug. 15, vs. Jacksonville Episcopal, 7 p.m. FIRST GAME: Aug. 22, vs. Flagler Palm Coast, 7 p.m. The Potato Bowl moves from the final week of the season to the first. DISTRICT 4-5A SCHEDULE: Sept. 26 at Mainland; Oct. 10 vs. Belleview. NEWCOMERS TO WATCH: QB Cole Walker, and C Logan Walker are brothers with plenty of experience snapping the ball from center to quarterback. They transferred to Matanzas in January. This is senior Cole Walker’s fourth school (including a spring at Nease), and his fifth head coach. He was the backup QB at Mainland last year and played at
Above: Matanzas wide receiver Ladarian Baker (3) sprints for a first down before getting pushed out of bounds by Seabreeze linemen Zabidiah Martin (55) and Matthew Wells in a Sept. 20, 2024 game. Below: Mainland linebacker Dennis “Tank” King III at Bethune-Cookman’s 7-on-7 camp on June 27. Photos by Michele Meyers
FPC in 2022 and 2023. “He is a super bright young man with a very high football IQ. He’s transitioned very well into our offense,” Forrest said. “He’s able to relate what we do with the other systems he’s been in. We might be a little more complicated as far as our reads and progressions. But he’s definitely been a quick learner.” MOST IMPROVED: WR/DB Ladarien Baker. The 6-foot-5 Baker was pretty solid last year with 36 catches for 472 yards, two interceptions and four touchdowns, but the Pirates expect the senior to have a much bigger impact this season. “He’s worked out really hard in the
weight room and has really picked it up academically,” Forrest said. “He’s bought into the process of becoming an elite football player.” Baker has three D-I offers from Presbyterian, Stetson, and Bethune-Cookman. TEAM STRENGTH: The Pirates have a veteran team with a lot of varsity experience. DEPTH POSITIONS: Secondary and offensive line — those positions should have the most competition during camp.
MAINLAND
The Buccaneers have been unable to find a Week 1 opponent after Uni-
versity canceled out of its game, so Mainland won’t play its first regularseason game until Week 2 on Aug. 29. The Bucs also have a bye on Week 8, which likely won’t be filled because it’s a district game week for most teams. “We tried (to find a new Week 1 opponent), but a couple of opportunities fell through,” second-year coach Jerrime Bell said. “At this point, we’re OK with having two bye weeks.” LAST SEASON: 5-6 record, won the district title to reach the playoffs for the 31st consecutive season. They beat their two district opponents by a combined score of 100-0. The last time Mainland missed the playoffs (1993), head coach Jerrime Bell was in the fourth grade. KICKOFF CLASSIC: Aug. 15 vs. Kissimmee Osceola, 7 p.m. at Daytona Municipal Stadium. FIRST GAME: Aug. 29 at Cocoa, 7 p.m. DISTRICT 4-5A SCHEDULE: Sept. 26 vs. Matanzas; Oct. 24 at Belleview. NEWCOMERS TO WATCH: OL/DL Stephone Ross. The 6-5, 267-pound senior transferred from DeLand. Ross has offers from Georgia Southern and Toledo. He’ll likely play defensive line in college. WR Jaden Parks. The sophomore transferred from New Smyrna Beach. He had a big spring with the Bucs. MOST IMPROVED: QB Sebastian Johnson. The senior is beginning his second season as the starter. WR Christian Cooper is the Bucs’ only senior receiver. DT Cortez Waring. The senior will be a key interior lineman. TEAM STRENGTH: Linebacker corps led by Dennis “Tank” King who has 20-plus Division I offers. Junior Tamaj Woodard is a second-year starter and has a handful or Power Four conference offers. Shawn Holmes and Isaac Strozier are juniors with experience. DEPTH POSITION: Defensive end. The Bucs have five or six defensive ends who can start for most teams. They’ll all get a chance to play, Bell said.
Matanzas grad Leah Stevens pitches perfect inning in PGF All-American softball game Experience with Georgia Impact travel team is preparing the pitcher for her freshman season at Florida. BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Leah Stevens. File photo by Michele Meyers
University of Florida softball signee Leah Stevens has been traveling the country this summer with Georgia Impact, one of the top travel softball teams in the country. After playing with the Impact in tournaments in Gainesville, Kansas City (back-to-back weeks) and Nashville, Stevens and the Impact placed fifth out of 72 teams in the Premier Girls Fastpitch Premier Division 18U National Championships in Huntington Beach, California, on July 22-25. At the end of the tournament, the Matanzas High School graduate was selected to play in the PGF High School All-American Game on July 26 in Irvine, California. Stevens pitched a perfect sixth inning for the East Team, getting the first two
batters to ground out and striking out Arizona recruit Sinalei Talataina looking at a changeup. East beat the West 3-1. Stevens was the only Florida recruit in the game. “She said it was an awesome way to finish her travel career,” her father Chris Stevens said. In an interview with Perfect Game TV, Stevens said the high level of competition is preparing her for her freshman season with the Gators. “I’ve always played locally,” she said. “After I committed (to UF), I joined the Georgia Impact team and they’ve been fantastic. The level of competition we’ve been playing is unlike anything I’ve ever played before, but it’s getting me ready for college.” Stevens is now taking a break before she starts school later this month. She will major in aerospace engineering and has been accepted into Florida’s University Research Scholars Program. Stevens had no softball offers early this year despite a standout comeback junior season at Matanzas in 2024. She had missed her sopho-
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more year because of a rare stroke caused by a blood clot in her brain. But before her senior season she impressed Florida coach Tim Walton at a camp. “Coach Walton saw me, and, thankfully, he needed a pitcher, so he gave me the opportunity of a lifetime,” Stevens said in the Perfect Game TV interview. Stevens helped lead Matanzas to a program-best 23-2 record. The Pirates advanced to the regional finals for the first time in school history where they lost to Niceville 1-0, despite Stevens pitching a no-hitter for the second time in three games. She finished her senior season with a 17-1 record, a 0.32 earned run average and 249 strikeouts in 108.2 innings. In the Perfect Game TV interview, Stevens said she needs to work on her chase pitches to make sure they are far enough off the plate. “Hitting is the hardest part of the game. The pressure is on the hitter,” she said. “I want to be dependable where I’m not making it easy on the hitters.”
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
SIDE LINES
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
FPC weightlifters sweep at Flagler Open AAU event
Eight Flagler Palm Coast weightlifters swept both championships in their weight classes at the AAU Flagler Open on Saturday, Aug. 2, at FPC. Cody Strawser (139-pound class), Jackson Fedun (169), Hansell Bruce (219), Joseph Casanova (238) and Matt McFall (unlimited) each won boys traditional and Olympic titles. Angelis Rosa (110), Nya Williams (119) and Lynnsie Jones (183) each won both girls titles. Williams won three gold medals at the USA Weightlifting National Championships
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach
earlier this summer. Three boys — Aidan Bull (154), Marlon Alvarado (199), Ethan Mancini (199) — each won one title Saturday. Buddy Taylor Middle School eighth grader Bella Acevedo placed second in both competitions at 139 pounds. Flagler lifters who placed among the top three in their weight classes (with their top individual lifts — snatch and clean and jerk for Olympic and clean and jerk and bench press for traditional): BOYS Anthony Giacobbe (129) 2nd Oly 135/165, 2nd Trad 165/170 Cody Strawser (139) 1st Oly 190/240, 1st Trad 240/225 Alex Huynh (139) 2nd Oly 170/225, 2nd Trad 225/215 Aidan Bull (154) 2nd Oly 125/195, 1st Trad 195/185 Hunter Womack (154) 3rd Oly 110/145, 3rd Trad 145/140 Jackson Fedun (169) 1st Oly 205/260, 1st Trad 260/215 Landon Gates (183) 2nd Oly 205/250, 2nd Trad 250/245 Marlon Alvarado (199) 1st Oly 200/250 Ethan Mancini (199) 2nd Oly 125/180, 1st Trad 180/215 Bryce McNitt (199) 3rd Oly 130/160, 2nd Trad 160/170 Hansell Bruce (219) 1st Oly 185/250, 1st Trad 250/250 Tyler Davidson (219) 2nd Oly 175/235 Gavin Battaglia (219) 3rd
Bella Acevedo, an eighth grader at Buddy Taylor Middle School, placed second in both the Olympic and traditional competitions at 139 pounds.
Trad 185/230 Joseph Casanova (238) 1st 210/285, 1st Trad 285/255 Matt McFall (UNL) 1st Oly 250/315, 1st Trad 315/325 GIRLS Kristy Owens (101) 3rd Trad 60/60 Angelis Rosa (110) 1st Oly 80/110, 1st Trad 110/105 Amelia Jurec (110) 2nd Oly 70/90, 2nd Trad 90/80 Nya Williams (119) 1st Oly 150/195, 1st Trad 195/150 Bella Acevedo (139) 2nd Oly 85/115, 2nd Trad 115/100 (She is an 8th grader at Buddy Taylor) Beatriz Pereira (139) 3rd Oly 85/110, 3rd Trad 110/85 Cali Weehunt (154) 2nd Oly 85/130, 3rd Trad 130/110 Makayla Melton (154) 3rd Oly 85/120, 2nd Trad 120/125 Brianna Long (169) 3rd Oly 85/110 Lynnsie Jones (183) 1st Oly 95/135, 1st Trad 135/135 Jaysa Hopkins (183) 2nd Oly 85/110, 2nd Trad 110/95 Kelsie Fedun (183) 3rd Oly 65/85 Alea Hardy (183) 3rd Trad 95/105 Arianna Almeida (UNL) 2nd Oly 90/135, 2nd Trad 135/115
Ethan Mancini placed first in traditional and second in Olympic in the 199-pound weight class. Photos by Brent Woronoff
Beatriz Pereira placed third in both Olympic and traditional competitions at 139 pounds.
Ormond Beach girl wins seven medals at cycling track nationals
Kate Miller, 12, Ormond Beach, won seven medals at the USA Cycling Junior Track National Championships on July 24-28 at the Jerry Baker Memorial Velodrome in Redmond, Washington. It was her first time competing on a track bike and on a velodrome banked oval track, her father, Joe Miller, said. Kate won three gold medals, placing first in the 3-lap scratch race, the 500-meter time trial and the omnium multi-race point event for girls ages 11-12. She also won two silvers and three bronze medals. She set a track record of 44.094 in the 500-meter time trial, Joe Miller said. Kate has been cycling competitively for about three years, but she had never tried a fixed-gear track bike until mid July, her father said. “We realized she had the leg speed and lap time that would have won (events at the Junior National Championships) the last several years,” Joe Miller said. A local USA Cycling instructor/official approved her entry, Miller said. This has been a summer of firsts for Kate. She also began
Kate Miller with the medals she won at the USA Cycling Junior Track National Championships. Courtesy photo
mountain-biking racing, transitioning from pavement to rugged trails. Kate, who rides for Ponte Vedra Racing in USA Cycling events, is also participating in National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) events for the first time. Kate, who is a student at St. Brendan Catholic School in Ormond Beach, has started a NICA team, the Volusia Navigators, named after St. Brendan the Navigator. Joe Miller said they are looking for other cyclists in fifth through 12th grade to join the team.
Palm Coast’s Mad Dogs win bronze at AAU Junior Olympic Games The Mad Dogs Flag Football of Palm Coast Elite 15U team won the bronze medal on July 27 at the AAU Junior Olympic Games at the University of Houston’s TDECU Stadium. The 15U Mad Dogs won five of six games over the weekend with its only loss coming to another Florida team — gold medalist Spring Hill Elite, 13-7. The Mad
Dogs won the bronze medal game, 14-6 over 32 Sports of Connecticut. After winning three bracket games on July 25, The Mad Dogs defeated the Florida Elite Colts 30-0 in a playoff game to set up a semifinal matchup July 27 against Spring Hill. After the tournament, the Mad Dogs Elite 15U held onto its No. 2 national ranking in the Zorts Power Index. Two Mad Dogs 14U teams also qualified for the Junior Olympic Games. The Mad Dogs Elite 14U Red team made the trip to Houston and finished 1-3 including the playoff. The Mad Dogs Elite 15U roster: QB Landon Arzuaga, WR/DB Lucas Siharaj (captain), RB/S Shawn Smith (captain), WR Cameron Mel, DB Kayson Magsino, WR Carter Kershner, C Colby Kershner, DB Yamon Jordan, WR/C Nolan Fitzgerald, LB/C Mathias Parker LB/WR Chris Finkelstein, C/WR/DB Jett Arzuaga, Coach Joey Arzuaga, Coach Chris Parks, Team Manager Stacey Arzuaga.
The Mad Dogs Flag Football of Palm Coast Elite 15U team won the bronze medal at the AAU Junior Olympic Games at the University of Houston. Courtesy photo
WHERE COTTON GROWS, SHADOWS LINGER The Sound of the Whippoorwill
is a moving memoir set in the postWWII deep south. It narrates the struggles of a fourth-generation white family on a cotton farm, wrestling with hard labor, mental illness, and child abuse. The narrative also explores the complex racial dynamics between the family and their black farm workers, delineating the stark inequities of a racially segregated society. A poignant exploration of resilience and the human spirit, it offers a profound reflection on cultural and social issues. SCAN HERE TO ORDER
Paperback ISBN: 9798822984417
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CLASSIFIEDS Items under $200
Assorted plants Elephant Ears, Snake Plants, and Multiple Other Types of Plants Starting at $1 PC 814-574-6387 Free 2 Multi Position Twin Electric Frame beds. Excellent Condition, Must Pick Up PC 404-732-4640 Leave Message. Schwinn 28”Mens Trailway Bike 2010 silver racing bike, new tires, low miles $200 (386) 446-5453 Brand New Serta Perfect Sleeper Queen Hybrid 14” EuroTop. Never used. $100 (386) 986-2779 Kitchen Island Cabinet, White Tile Top. $35. Two 36” Bar stools, $10 Ea. 386-206-9006
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Flagler Beach City Center, Furnished Studio Appt. Full Kitchen, All Utilities included $1250/ mo. Year Lease 571338-9481 Flagler Beach 216 S 3rd St, Lovely 2b 1 1/2b Appt Water and Electric Included. $2000/ mo, Years Lease Required. 571-338-9481 Flagler Beach Ocean views 1820 S Oceanshore BLVD, Furnished Studio Appt. Year Round Heated Pool $1500/mo Utilities Included, Year Lease. 571-338-9481
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Like New Sofa and Love Seat. Asking $375. Brand New White Frigidaire Dishwasher, still wrapped in film Asking $350. 386-264-7217
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Physician, Critical Care Intensivist sought by AdventHealth Medical Group - East Florida in Daytona Beach, FL & Flagler County, to provide medical services to critically ill patients. Provide call coverage & Emergency Dept call coverage as a condition of Physicians Medical Staff membership. Respond to all calls from the Hospital. Complete & maintain accurate, complete, & up-todate medical records, charts, & reports for each patient treated or examined. Reqmts: M.D. deg (or foreign equiv); State of Florida MD license; ACGME Residency in Internal Medicine, Emergency Medicine or similar; & Critical Care Medicine ACGME Fellowship. Mail resume to Anna Colon Negron at 608 E. Altamonte Dr., Ste. 1100, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701.
FIND BUYERS & SELLERS HERE!
Medical Laboratory Scientist II sought by AdventHealth Palm Coast Pkwy in Palm Coast, FL, to perform various lab procedures in assigned areas as licensed/certified. Analytical testing of blood &/or human biological specimens. Moderate to high deg of theoretical & practical knowl & expertise in licensed area(s). Various pre-& post-analytical work processes. Follows lab policies &procedures; maintains qlty control practices in the Lab. Reqmts: Bachelor’s deg (or foreign equiv) in Clinical Lab, Chemical, or Bio Sci, or rltd field. Valid State of FL Clinical Lab Technologist license. Mail resume to Anna Colon Negron at 900 Hope Way, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714.
Ana’s Personal housekeeping. One Time, Weekly, Or Monthly Service (PC) anaspersonalhousekeeping@gmail.com386868-9662 . .Real Estate Beach Living Single Wide Mobile Home 1B/1B 780 Sq Ft with Separate Storage Room. Completely Rebuilt inside and Out. $125,000 629-200-8010
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Auto • HomeInsurance • Condo • Motorcycle • Flood • Renters All Counties Agency All Counties Insurance Agency RV • Boat • Commercial Auto • Property & Traffic School 99 OldSchool Kings Rd. S.100 Suite 3 & Traffic Winn-Dixie Shopping Plaza - Route
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ALL PF701 COUNTIES INSURANCE A N: N: PF701
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
SPEC SPEC
PROOF DUE: 04/22/16 13:59:55
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PUBLIC NOTICES
Additional Public Notices may be accessed on ObserverLocalNews.com and the statewide legal notice website, FloridaPublicNotices.com
THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
FLAGLER COUNTY LEGAL NOTICES FIRST INSERTION
FIRST INSERTION
NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CIRCUIT CIVIL DIVISION CASE NO.: 2025 CA 000305 SERVBANK, SB Plaintiff(s), vs. MICHAEL A. THOMAS; SHA TAN; THE UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF MICHAEL A. THOMAS; THE UNKNOWN TENANT IN POSSESSION, Defendant(s). TO: SHA TAN LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 30 FITZGERALD LANE, PALM COAST, FL 32137 CURRENT ADDRESS: UNKNOWN YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a civil action has been filed against you in the Circuit Court of Flagler County, Florida, to foreclose certain real property described as follows: LOT 15, BLOCK 13, OF PALM COAST, MAP OF FLORIDA PARK, SECTION 10, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 6, PAGES 43 THROUGH 53, INCLUSIVE, AS AMENDED BY INSTRUMENT RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 35, PAGE 528, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. Property address: 30 Fitzgerald Lane, Palm Coast, FL 32137 You are required to file a written response with the Court and serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Padgett Law Group, whose address is 6267 Old Water Oak Road, Suite 203, Tallahassee, FL 32312, at least thirty (30) days from the date of first publication, and file the original with the clerk of this court either before service on Plaintiff ’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise, a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint. If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration, 101 N. Alabama Ave., Ste. D-305, DeLand, FL 32724 (386) 257-6096; Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711. DATED this the day of 8/1/2025. CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT As Clerk of the Court BY: (SEAL) Amy Perez Deputy Clerk Plaintiff Atty: Padgett Law Group 6267 Old Water Oak Road, Suite 203 Tallahassee, FL 32312 attorney@padgettlawgroup.com Servbank, SB vs. Michael A. Thomas TDP File No. 25-004347-1 August 7, 14, 2025 25-00187G
NOTICE OF AGENCY ACTION TAKEN BY THE ST. JOHNS RIVER WATER MANAGEMENT DISTRICT Notice is given that on August 1, 2025 the District issued Permit No. 1984-14 for a Consumptive Use Permit to serve agricultural activities. The total allocation authorized is .269 mgd of groundwater and .508 mgd of surface water. The project is located in Flagler County, Section(s) 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, Township 14 South, Range 29 East. The permit applicant is TYFCO, LLC. If you wish to receive a copy of a Technical Staff Report (TSR) that provides the St. Johns River Water Management District (District) staffs’ analysis on the above-listed compliance report(s) and associated permit(s), please submit your request to Office Director, Office of Records and Regulatory Support, PO Box 1429, Palatka, FL 32178-1429. You may view the TSR by going to the Permitting section of the District’s website at www.sjrwmd.com/ permitting/index.html. To obtain information on how to find and view a TSR, visit https:// permitting.sjrwmd.com/epermitting/html/EP_FAQs.html, and then follow the directions provided under “How to find a Technical Staff Report (TSR) or other application file documents.” A person whose substantial interests are or may be affected has the right to request an administrative hearing by filing a written petition with the District. Pursuant to Chapter 28-106 and Rule 40C-1.1007, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), the petition must be filed (received) either by delivery at the office of the District Clerk at District Headquarters, P. O. Box 1429, Palatka Florida 32178-1429 (4049 Reid St., Palatka, FL 32177) or by e-mail with the District Clerk at Clerk@sjrwmd.com, within twenty-one (21) days of newspaper publication of the notice of District decision (for those persons to whom the District does not mail or email actual notice). A petition for an administrative hearing is deemed filed upon receipt of the complete petition by the District Clerk at the District Headquarters in Palatka, Florida during the District’s regular business hours. The District’s regular business hours are 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., excluding weekends and District holidays. Petitions received by the District Clerk after the District’s regular business hours shall be deemed filed as of 8 a.m. on the next regular District business day. A petition must comply with Sections 120.54(5)(b)4. and 120.569(2)(c), Florida Statutes (F.S.), and Chapter 28-106, F.A.C. The District’s acceptance of petitions filed by e-mail is subject to certain conditions set forth in the District’s Statement of Agency Organization and Operation (issued pursuant to Rule 28-101.001, F.A.C.), which is available for viewing at www.sjrwmd.com. The District will not accept a petition sent by facsimile (fax). Mediation may be available if you meet the conditions stated in the full Notice of Rights (see last paragraph). The right to an administrative hearing and the relevant procedures to be followed are governed by Chapter 120, F.S., Chapter 28-106, F.A.C., and Rule 40C-1.1007, F.A.C. Because the administrative hearing process is designed to formulate final agency action, the filing of a petition means the District’s final action may be different from the position taken by it in this notice. Failure to file a petition for an administrative hearing within the requisite time frame shall constitute a waiver of the right to an administrative hearing. (Rule 28-106.111, F.A.C.). If you wish to do so, please visit http://www.sjrwmd.com/nor_dec/ to read the complete Notice of Rights to determine any legal rights you may have concerning the District’s decision(s) on the Consumptive Use Permit Application(s) described above. You can also request the Notice of Rights by contacting the Office Director, Office of Records and Regulatory Support, P. O. Box 1429, Palatka, FL 32178, phone (386)329-4570. August 7, 2025 25-00186G
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF ACTION CONSTRUCTIVE SERVICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 2025 CA 000358 MORTGAGE RESEARCH CENTER, LLC D/B/A VETERANS UNITED HOME LOANS, A MISSOURI LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, Plaintiff, vs. BRIAN DAVID PUCKETT A/K/A BRIAN D. PUCKETT AND MELANIE MARIE PUCKETT. et. al. Defendant(s), TO: MELANIE MARIE PUCKETT, whose residence is unknown and all parties having or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property described in the mortgage being foreclosed herein. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a mortgage on the following property: LOT 14, BLOCK 23, ROYAL PALMSSECTION 30 PALM COAST, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 10, PAGE 30, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on counsel for Plaintiff, whose address is 6409 Congress Avenue, Suite 100, Boca Raton, Florida 33487 on or before /(30 days from Date of First Publication of this Notice) and file the original with the clerk of this court either before service on Plaintiff ’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition filed herein. THIS NOTICE SHALL BE PUBLISHED ONCE A WEEK FOR TWO (2) CONSECUTIVE WEEKS. WITNESS my hand and the seal of this Court at Flagler County, Florida, this day of 8/1/2025. TOM BEXLEY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT (SEAL) BY: AMY PEREZ DEPUTY CLERK Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 6409 Congress Ave., Suite 100 Boca Raton, FL 33487 PRIMARY EMAIL: flmail@raslg.com 25-276438 August 7, 14, 2025 25-00190G
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY OF SOLICITATION The Flagler County Board of County Commissioners is soliciting for the following: 25-RSQ-079 Construction Engineering Inspection Services for Design Build Projects. The revised due date and time for submission of responses to this solicitation is 3:00 p.m. E.T., on Thursday, September 4, 2025. Responses received after the due date and time will not be considered. Interested firms may secure proposal documents and all other pertinent information by visiting the website of Opengov at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/flaglercounty. Flagler County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, to award all or segments of the project, and to waive any informality in proposals received, all as may be in the best interest of the County. Aug. 7 25-00285F
FIRST INSERTION
FIRST INSERTION ORMOND STATION COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE ADOPTION OF THE FISCAL YEAR 2026 BUDGET(S); AND NOTICE OF REGULAR BOARD OF SUPERVISORS’ MEETING. The Board of Supervisors (“Board”) of the Ormond Station Community Development District (“District”) will hold a public hearing as follows: DATE: August 28, 2025 HOUR: 11:00 a.m. LOCATION: Flagler County Government Services Building 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Bldg. 2 First Floor Conference Room Bunnell, Florida 32110 The purpose of the hearing is to receive comments on the adoption of the proposed budget(s) (“Proposed Budget”) of the District for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2025 and ending September 30, 2026. A regular board meeting of the District will also be held at that time where the Board may consider any other business that may properly come before it. A copy of the agenda and Proposed Budget may be obtained at the offices of the District Manager, Wrathell, Hunt and Associates, LLC, 2300 Glades Road #410W, Boca Raton, Florida 33431, (877)276-0889 (“District Manager’s Office”), during normal business hours. The public hearing and meeting are open to the public and will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Florida law. The public hearing and meeting may be continued to a date, time, and place to be specified on the record at the meeting. There may be occasions when Board Supervisors or District Staff may participate by speaker telephone. Any person requiring special accommodations at this meeting because of a disability or physical impairment should contact the District Manager’s Office at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the meeting. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the Florida Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1, or 1-800-955-8771 (TTY) / 1-800-955-8770 (Voice), for aid in contacting the District Manager’s Office. Each person who decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at the public hearing or meeting is advised that person will need a record of proceedings and that accordingly, the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which such appeal is to be based. District Manager August 7, 2025 25-00189G
FIRST INSERTION SEMINOLE PALMS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE ADOPTION OF THE FISCAL YEAR 2025/2026 BUDGET(S); AND NOTICE OF REGULAR BOARD OF SUPERVISORS’ MEETING. The Board of Supervisors (“Board”) of the Seminole Palms Community Development District (“District”) will hold a public hearing on Monday, August 25, 2025 at 11:00 a.m., at the Hilton Garden Inn – 55 Town Center Blvd., Palm Coast, Florida 32614 for the purpose of hearing comments and objections on the adoption of the proposed budget(s) (“Proposed Budget”) of the District for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2025 and ending September 30, 2026 (“Fiscal Year 2025/2026”). A regular board meeting of the District will also be held at that time where the Board may consider any other business that may properly come before it. A copy of the agenda and Proposed Budget may be obtained at the offices of the District Manager, c/o DPFG Management & Consulting LLC, 250 International Parkway, Suite 208, Lake Mary, Florida 32746, 321-263-0132 (“District Manager’s Office”), during normal business hours, or by visiting the District’s website at https://www.seminolepalmscdd. com/. The public hearing and meeting are open to the public and will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Florida law. The public hearing and meeting may be continued to a date, time, and place to be specified on the record at the meeting. There may be occasions when Board Supervisors or District Staff may participate by speaker telephone. Any person requiring special accommodations at this meeting because of a disability or physical impairment should contact the District Manager’s Office at least fortyeight (48) hours prior to the meeting. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the Florida Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1, or 1-800-955-8771 (TTY) / 1-800955-8770 (Voice), for aid in contacting the District Manager’s Office. Each person who decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at the public hearing or meeting is advised that person will need a record of proceedings and that accordingly, the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which such appeal is to be based. District Manager Aug. 7 25-00284F
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF ACTION For Dissolution of Marriage Tamara Ambartsumava searching Ihor Troyan for divorce.786-393-2652 Aug. 7/14/21/28 25-00281F
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION 48 File # 2025 CP 430 IN RE: THE ESTATE OF GARY WALTER BALLARD Deceased. The administration of the Estate of GARY WALTER BALLARD, Deceased, whose date of death was May 22, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Kim C. Hammond Justice Center, 1769 E. Moody Blvd, Bldg. 1, Bunnell, Florida 32110. The name and address of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the Decedent’s Estate on whom a copy of this Notice is required to be served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against Decedent’s Estate must file their claims with this Court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA STATUTES WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The first publication of this notice is August 7, 2025. Lisa Alexander, Personal Representative, 31 Sandy Beach Way, Palm Coast, FL 32137 /s/ Stacy Geiger STACY GEIGER, ESQ. Florida Bar Number: 0015711 Geiger Law, PLLC Post Office Box 352951 Palm Coast, FL 32135 (386) 264-6937 telephone stacygeigeresq@yahoo.com andreaburnsesq@gmail.com August 7, 14, 2025 25-00191G
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HUNTER’S RIDGE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT NO. 1 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE ADOPTION OF SEMI-PUBLIC USE THE FISCAL YEAR 2026 PROPOSED BUDGET(S); AND NOTICE OF PROJECT #2025040053 REGULAR BOARD OF SUPERVISORS’ MEETING. A request has been made by Cathy The Board of Supervisors (“Board”) of the Hunter’s Ridge Community Development Heighter as Founder of Remembering District No. 1 (“District”) will hold a public hearing on August 26, 2025 at 11:30 a.m., VETS, Inc., a not for profit corporation, for at Flagler County Government Services Bldg., 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Bldg. 2, Bunnell, a Semi-Public Use approval for a Gathering Florida 32110 for the purpose of hearing comments and objections on the adoption of Hall on land owned by Cathy Heighter and the proposed budget(s) of the District for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2025 and Remembering VETS, Inc, located at 2217 ending September 30, 2026 (“Proposed Budget”). A regular board meeting of the District Lancewood Street and described as Lot 8, will also be held at that time where the Board may consider any other business that may Block 95 of Daytona North Subdivision, properly come before it. A copy of the agenda and Proposed Budget may be obtained at the Parcel #13-12-28-1800-00950-0080. offices of the District Manager, c/o Wrathell, Hunt and Associates, LLC, 2300 Glades The subject property lies in the MH-1 Road, Suite 410W, Boca Raton, Florida 33431, Ph: 561-571-0010 (“District Manager’s (Rural Mobile Home) District. Semi-PubOffice”), during normal business hours or by visiting the District’s website, https:// lic Uses may be permitted in any zoning huntersridgecdd1.net/. district provided application is made to the The public hearing and meeting are open to the public and will be conducted in Planning and Development Board for its accordance with the provisions of Florida law. The public hearing and meeting may be review and recommendation to the County continued to a date, time, and place to be specified on the record at the meeting. There may Commission for final decision. be occasions when Board Supervisors or District Staff may participate by speaker telephone. Public hearings on the above-captioned Any person requiring special accommodations at this meeting because of a disability matter will be held as follows: or physical impairment should contact the District Manager’s Office at least forty-eight PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT (48) hours prior to the meeting. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the BOARD – September 9, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. Florida Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1, or 1-800-955-8771 (TTY) / 1-800-955-8770 (Voice), or as soon thereafter as possible in the Flafor aid in contacting the District Manager’s Office. gler County Government Services Building, Each person who decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any Board Chambers, 1769 E. Moody Boulematter considered at the public hearing or meeting is advised that person will need a record vard, Bldg. 2, Bunnell, Florida 32110 for of proceedings and that accordingly, the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record recommendation to the Board of County of the proceedings is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which such appeal Commissioners. is to be based. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSION District Manager ERS – October 20, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. or as August 7, 2025 25-00188G soon thereafter as possible in the Flagler County Government Services Building, Board Chambers, 1769 E. Moody Boulevard, Bldg. 2, Bunnell, Florida 32110 for FIRST INSERTION FIRST INSERTION final decision. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND All interested persons are urged to attend NOTICE OF AGENCY ACTION BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING the public hearing and be heard. Anyone TAKEN BY THE ST. JOHNS RIVER OF THE GRAND HAVEN wishing to express their opinion may atWATER MANAGEMENT DISTRICT COMMUNITY tend, telephone 386-313-4009 or write to: Notice is given that the following permit DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT Flagler County Planning Department, 1769 was issued on August 7th, 2023: (Name The Board of Supervisors (the “Board”) E. Moody Blvd, Building 2, Bunnell, FL and address of applicant) Meritage Homes, of the Grand Haven Community Develop32110 or email to planningdept@flagler13901 Sutton Park Drive South, Suite C350, ment District (the “District”) will hold a county.gov. Please reference application Jacksonville, FL 32224 permit#97632-14. meeting beginning at 3:00 p.m. and a number above. Copies of the application, The project is located in Flagler County, public hearing beginning at 5:00 p.m. supporting data and analysis, staff reports Section 3, Township 12 South, Range 31 on August 21, 2025, in the Grand Haven and other pertinent information are availEast. The permit authorizes a surface water Room, located at 2001 Waterside Parkable for review at the Flagler County Planmanagement system on 293.3 acres for a way, Palm Coast, Florida 32137. ning & Zoning Dept., 1769 East Moody residential development known as Colbert The purpose of the public hearing is Boulevard, Building 2, Bunnell, Florida Landings. The receiving water body is Grato receive public comments on the pro32110, telephone (386) 313-4009. ham Swamp. posed adoption of the District’s fiscal year IF A PERSON DECIDES TO APPEAL A person whose substantial interests are 2025/2026 proposed budget. A meeting ANY DECISION MADE BY THE BOARD or may be affected has the right to request of the Board will also be held beginning at OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WITH an administrative hearing by filing a writ3:00 p.m. on August 21, 2025, where the RESPECT TO ANY MATTER CONSIDten petition with the St. Johns River Water Board may consider any other business that ERED AT THE MEETING, A RECORD Management District (District). Pursuant may properly come before it. A copy of the OF THE PROCEEDINGS MAY BE to Chapter 28-106 and Rule 40C-1.1007, proposed budget and the agenda may be NEEDED AND, FOR SUCH PURPOSES, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), the viewed on the District’s website at least two THE PERSON MAY NEED TO ENSURE petition must be filed (received) either by (2) days before the meeting or may be obTHAT A VERBATIM RECORD IS MADE, delivery at the office of the District Clerk at tained by contacting the District Manager’s WHICH RECORD INCLUDES THE District Headquarters, P.O. Box 1429, Paloffice via email at dmcinnes@vestaproperTESTIMONY AND EVIDENCE UPON atka FL 32178-1429 (4049 Reid St, Palatka, tyservices.com. WHICH APPEAL IS TO BE BASED. IN FL 32177) or by e-mail with the District The public hearing and meeting are open ACCORDANCE WITH THE AMERIClerk at Clerk@sjrwmd.com, within twento the public and will be conducted in acCANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT, PERty-one (21) days of newspaper publication cordance with the provisions of Florida law SONS NEEDING ASSISTANCE TO of the notice of District decision (for those for community development districts. They PARTICIPATE IN ANY OF THESE PROpersons to whom the District does not mail may be continued to a date, time, and place CEEDINGS SHOULD CONTACT THE or email actual notice). A petition must to be specified on the record at the hearing PLANNING DEPARTMENT AT LEAST comply with Sections 120.54(5)(b)4. and or meeting. There may be occasions when 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING. 120.569(2)(c), Florida Statutes (F.S.), and staff or Board members may participate by Aug. 7 25-00287F Chapter 28-106, F.A.C. The District will speakerphone. not accept a petition sent by facsimile (fax). In accordance with the provisions of the Mediation pursuant to Section 120.573, Americans with Disabilities Act, any perF.S., may be available and choosing mediason requiring special accommodations betion does not affect your right to an admincause of a disability or physical impairment istrative hearing. should contact the District Manager’s office A petition for an administrative hearing at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. If is deemed filed upon receipt of the comyou are hearing or speech impaired, please plete petition by the District Clerk at the contact the Florida Relay Service at 711 or District Headquarters in Palatka, Florida 1-800-955-8771 (TTY), or 1-800-955-8770 during the District’s regular business hours. (voice) for aid in contacting the District The District’s regular business hours are 8 Manager’s office. a.m. – 5 p.m., excluding weekends and Each person who decides to appeal any District holidays. Petitions received by the decision made by the Board with respect to District Clerk after the District’s regular any matter considered at the public hearing business hours shall be deemed filed as of 8 or meeting is advised that person will need a.m. on the District’s next regular business a record of proceedings and that accordday. The District’s acceptance of petitions ingly, the person may need to ensure that a filed by e-mail is subject to certain condiverbatim record of the proceedings is made, tions set forth in the District’s Statement including the testimony and evidence upon of Agency Organization and Operation (iswhich such appeal is to be based. sued pursuant to Rule 28-101.001, Florida David McInnes Administrative Code), which is available for District Manager viewing at www.sjrwmd.com. These condiAug. 7 25-00282F tions include, but are not limited to, the petition being in the form of a PDF or TIFF file and being capable of being stored and FIRST INSERTION printed by the District. Further, pursuant to the District’s Statement of Agency OrganiRADIANCE COMMUNITY zation and Operation, attempting to file a DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT petition by facsimile (fax) is prohibited and NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING shall not constitute filing. TO CONSIDER THE ADOPTION The right to an administrative hearing OF THE FISCAL YEAR 2025/2026 and the relevant procedures to be followed BUDGET(S); AND NOTICE OF are governed by Chapter 120, Florida StatREGULAR BOARD OF SUPERVIutes, Chapter 28-106, Florida AdministraSORS’ MEETING. tive Code, and Rule 40C- 1.1007, Florida The Board of Supervisors (“Board”) of Administrative Code. Because the adminthe Radiance Community Development istrative hearing process is designed to District (“District”) will hold a public hearformulate final agency action, the filing of ing on Monday, August 25, 2025, at 11:00 a petition means the District’s final action a.m., at Hilton Garden Inn, 55 Town may be different from the position taken by Center Blvd., Palm Coast, FL 32164 for it in this notice. Failure to file a petition the purpose of hearing comments and obfor an administrative hearing within the jections on the adoption of the proposed requisite time frame shall constitute a budget(s) (“Proposed Budget”) of the Diswaiver of the right to an administrative trict for the fiscal year beginning October hearing. (Rule 28-106.111, F.A.C.). 1, 2025 and ending September 30, 2026 If you wish to do so, please visit http:// (“Fiscal Year 2025/2026”). A regular www.sjrwmd.com/nor_dec/ to read the board meeting of the District will also be complete Notice of Rights to determine held at that time where the Board may conany legal rights you may have concerning sider any other business that may properly the District’s decision(s) on the permit come before it. A copy of the agenda and application(s) described above. You can also Proposed Budget may be obtained at the request the Notice of Rights by contacting offices of the District Manager, c/o DPFG the Director of Office of Records and ReguManagement & Consulting LLC, 250 Inlatory Support, 4049 Reid St., Palatka, FL ternational Parkway, Suite 208, Lake Mary, 32177- 2529, tele. no. (386)329-4570. Florida 32746, 321-263-0132 (“District Aug. 7 25-00286F Manager’s Office”), during normal business hours, or by visiting the District’s website at https://www.radiancecdd.com/. The public hearing and meeting are open to the public and will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Florida law. The public hearing and meeting may be continued to a date, time, and place to be specified on the record at the meeting. There may be occasions when Board Supervisors or District Staff may participate by speaker telephone. Any person requiring special accommodations at this meeting because of a disability or physical impairment should contact the District Manager’s Office at least fortyeight (48) hours prior to the meeting. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the Florida Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1, or 1-800-955-8771 (TTY) / 1-800955-8770 (Voice), for aid in contacting the District Manager’s Office. Each person who decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at the public hearing or meeting is advised that person will need a record of proceedings and that accordingly, the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which such appeal is to be based. Visit District Manager Observerlocalnews. Aug. 7 25-00283F
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SUBSEQUENT INSERTIONS FOURTH INSERTION NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINT To: Ky’andre J. Moore Case No.: CD202505389/D 3402742 An Administrative Complaint to revoke your license(s) and eligibility for licensure has been filed against you. You have the right to request a hearing pursuant to Sections 120.569 and 120.57, Florida Statutes, by mailing a request for same to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Licensing, Post Office Box 5708 Tallahassee, Florida 32314-5708. If a request for hearing is not received by 21 days from the date of the last publication, the right to hearing in this matter will be waived and the Department will dispose of this cause in accordance with law. July 17, 24, 31; August 7, 2025 25-00178G
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NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that ELEVENTH TALENT B, LLC the holder of the following certificate(s) has filed said certificate(s) for a tax deed to be issued thereon. The certificate number(s) and year of issuance, the description of the property, and the names in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate No:2023 / 1193 Year of Issuance:2023 Description of Property: Lot 8, of Block 44, of Palm Coast Map of Royal Palms, Section 29, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Map Book 10, at Page 24, of the Public Records of Flagler County, Florida. Name in which assessed: Dean P Spriggs Trustee All of said property being in the County of Flagler, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificate(s) will be sold to the highest bidder via an electronic auction accessible from https:// flaglerclerk.com/TaxDeedAuction on the 9th day of September, 2025 at 9 a.m. Tom Bexley Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller of Flagler County, FL By: Jannet Dewberry, Deputy Clerk File # 25-038 TDC Jul. 31, Aug. 7/14/21 25-00264F
PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT in accordance with Section 177.101 of the Florida Statutes, Curtis D. and Lilia C. Hillegas intend to petition the Board of County Commissioners of Flagler County, Florida, on August 18, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible during its regular scheduled meeting to vacate a portion of the 15 foot wide Drainage Easement along the North (right) lot line within Lot 11 of Hammock Moorings North, as recorded in Plat Book 33, Page 77, Public Records of Flagler County, Florida, with the portion of the Drainage Easement to be vacated through this request being within and part of Lot 11 and more particularly described as: For a Point of Reference commence at the most northerly corner of said Lot 11 and run thence S66°38’28”W, along the northerly line of Lot 11, 63.03 feet; thence S23°21’32”E 14.72 feet to a building corner and the Point of Beginning of this description. Thence S23°05’32”E, along said building, .28 feet to the southerly line of a 15’ drainage easement; thence S66°38’28”W, along said easement, 52.98 feet to the westerly end of an existing building; thence N23°07’06”W, along said building, .506 feet to a building corner; thence N66°52’54”E, along the northerly face of said building 52.979 feet to the Point of Beginning and to close. Containing 20.93 square feet. PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTE 286.0105, EACH BOARD, COMMISSION, OR AGENCY OF THIS STATE OR OF ANY POLITICAL SUBDIVISION THEREOF SHALL INCLUDE IN THE NOTICE OF ANY MEETING OR HEARING, IF NOTICE OF THE MEETING OR HEARING IS REQUIRED, OF SUCH BOARD, COMMISSION OR AGENCY, CONSPICUOUSLY ON SUCH NOTICE, THE ADVICE THAT, IF A PERSON DECIDES TO APPEAL ANY DECISION MADE BY THE BOARD, AGENCY, OR COMMISSION WITH RESPECT TO ANY MATTER CONSIDERED AT SUCH MEETING OR HEARING, HE OR SHE WILL NEED A RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS, AND THAT, FOR SUCH PURPOSE, HE OR SHE MAY NEED TO ENSURE THAT A VERBATIM RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS IS MADE, WHICH RECORD INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY AND EVIDENCE UPON WHICH THE APPEAL IS TO BE BASED. Jul. 31, Aug. 7 25-00277F
SECOND INSERTION NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Notice is hereby given that on 8/15/2025 at 10:30 am, the following mobile home will be sold at public auction pursuant to F.S. 715.109. 1992 INNS TV 1NL10TM26N1014312 . Last Tenants: CINDY SWIFT, TERRA LEE SWIFT, ISAC LEE ELLIS, AND UNKNOWN PARTY OR PARTIES IN POSSESSION and all unknown parties beneficiaries heirs. Sale to be at MHC BULOW PLANTATION, LLC, 3345 OLD KINGS RD., FLAGLER BEACH, FL 32136. 813-282-6754. Jul. 31, Aug. 7 25-00279F
SECOND INSERTION Notice of Intent News Release PUBLIC NOTICE Pursuant to Florida Statute 121.055, notice is hereby given that the Board of County Commissioners of Flagler County intends to designate the position of Health and Human Services Director, to be included in the Senior Management Services class of the Florida Retirement System. Jul. 31, Aug. 7 25-00266F
SECOND INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2025 CP 000337 Division 48 IN RE: ESTATE OF MARY ELIZABETH OLSON Deceased. The administration of the estate of MARY ELIZABETH OLSON, deceased, whose date of death was December 16, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Kim C. Hammond Justice Center, 1769 East Moody Boulevard, Building #1, Bunnell, Florida 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representatives and the personal representatives’ attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is July 31, 2025. Personal Representatives: JUDY L. KOECK 10553 Lake Monterey Drive, K202 Orlando, Florida 32821 BONNIE J. OLSON 10 Morington Lane Flagler Beach, Florida 32136 Attorney for Personal Representatives: PAUL A. MARTIN, Esq. Attorney for Personal Representatives Florida Bar Number: 1000375 4015 Calusa Lane Ormond Beach, Florida 32174 Telephone: (386) 361-3567 Fax: (386) 487-2140 E-Mail: Paul.A.Martin.Esq@gmail.com Secondary E-Mail: Paul@MartinEstateProbateLaw.com Jul. 31; Aug. 7, 2025 25-00183G
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SECOND INSERTION PUBLIC NOTICE $11,504.34 USD was seized via search warrant by the Flagler County Sheriff ’s Office on July 3, 2025 from Binance in reference to criminal case #2025-000055508. The funds originated from a victim located in Flagler County which were taken fraudulently and under false pretenses between June 10, 2025, and June 11, 2025. Jul. 31, Aug. 7 25-00268F
SECOND INSERTION PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT in accordance with Section 177.101 of the Florida Statutes and in accordance with Sections 336.09 and 336.10, Florida Statutes, Aaron J. Rounsavall, as the owner of the subject land included within a plat and roadway vacation petition, has requested that the Board of County Commissioners of Flagler County, Florida, consider its request to vacate that portion of the platted lands and road described as follows: A certain portion of Smokerise Subdivision Unit 4, Flagler County, Florida, according to the plat thereof recorded in Plat Book 26, Page 38, of the Public Records of Flagler County, Florida, described as a strip of land 40 feet wide at the rear of Lot 11 dedicated to the perpetual use of the public, for the installation and maintenance of roads, public utilities and drainage facilities, as described on the aforementioned Smokerise Subdivision Unit 4, Flagler County, Florida plat. Said petition to vacate the land and road described shall be heard by the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners at its regular scheduled meeting on Monday, August 18, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible in the Board Chambers at 1769 E. Moody Boulevard, Building 2, Bunnell, Florida. All interested persons are urged to attend the public hearing and be heard. Anyone wishing to express their opinion may attend, telephone 386-313-4009, or write to: Flagler County Planning and Zoning Department, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Bldg. 2, Bunnell, FL 32110, or email to planningdept@flaglercounty.gov. Copies of the petition, supporting documents, staff reports and other pertinent information are available for review at the Flagler County Planning and Zoning Department, 1769 East Moody Boulevard, Building 2, Bunnell, Florida 32110, Monday through Friday (except holidays) from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTE 286.0105, IF A PERSON DECIDES TO APPEAL ANY DECISION MADE BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WITH RESPECT TO ANY MATTER CONSIDERED AT A MEETING OR HEARING, HE OR SHE WILL NEED A RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS, AND THAT, FOR SUCH PURPOSE, HE OR SHE MAY NEED TO ENSURE THAT A VERBATIM RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS IS MADE, WHICH RECORD INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY AND EVIDENCE UPON WHICH THE APPEAL IS TO BE BASED. IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT, PERSONS NEEDING ASSISTANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS PROCEEDING SHOULD CONTACT (386) 313-4001 AT LEAST 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING. Jul. 31, Aug. 7 25-00269F
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