Flagler County quietly works with Palm Coast, extends water connection to Hammock neighborhood.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF
WRITER
Bill Walsh has lived on well water since the 1970s, so he said he knew what to expect when he originally purchased his land in the Willow Woods neighborhood on the northeast side of Flagler County in 2021.
But the well water was not like it was at the other homes he has had in Ormond Beach and Flagler County. Walsh said the first well they dug had 1,200 parts per million of salt. He’s learned to work with wells over the years, but he has never had to work with salt, he said.
“We didn’t run anything through the appliances,” he said. “I was constantly taking it to the watershed [for testing].”
Walsh said those appliances that he did run the well water through were needing replacing faster than normal because of the salt levels in the water, even with his watersoftener systems in place. And because he couldn’t use the water to cook or drink, Walsh said he was filling up four or five water jugs every week and a half for potable water.
“There was no question I was going to hook up as soon as they got the water out here and placed the meters and everything,” he said.
The Willow Woods neighborhood has had heavy salt levels in their well water for years, Deputy County Administrator Jorge Salinas said in a phone interview with the Observer. There are around 40 lots in that neighborhood and those without systems in place were having to live out of bottled water, he said.
“They were living in, kind of, ‘camping conditions,’” Salinas said.
Connecting the area to Palm Coast’s water utility is a project Flagler County has been quietly
working on since 2021. In 2022 the county entered an Interlocal Agreement with Palm Coast for utility and infrastructure improvements, in which Flagler paid for the city to extend connections into the neighborhood from State Road A1A.
In total, the project cost $1.5 million to design and construct, all of which was funded from the American Rescue Plan Act funds granted to Flagler County. The connections were completed in August 2024, he said.
The residents of Willow Wood had the option to connect, and not
all of them chose to. Walsh said he had started digging another well just before the county and city’s work was completed and that water tested at 3,800 parts per million.
It wasn’t long after he was living there that Walsh learned Flagler County was making moves to connect the neighborhood to Palm Coast’s utility system, and learning about the project was “like a breath of fresh air.” He said was excited for the opportunity to connect, because it was either that or purchase a reverse osmosis system.
“One of those is like $15,000-
$20,000,” Walsh said, not including maintenance costs.
Since connecting to the potable water — he forwent irrigation connections and uses his well water for that — in 2024, Walsh said he’s glad he does not have to think about all the parts and concerns that go into managing well water.
The process, he said, was smooth and the contractor and his team were fantastic to work with.
“We switched right away,” Walsh said. “Everything from that point has been great.”
Willow Woods resident Bill Walsh connected to city water in late 2024. Before that, he was using jugs of water for drinking and cooking. Photo by Sierra Williams
MATANZAS ROLLS
NEWS BRIEFS
Ormond Beach Fire responds to structure fire on Highland Avenue
A house in the 100 block of Higihland Avenue caught on fire after a candle was left unattended on Wednesday, Aug. 27.
The Ormond Beach Fire Department responded to the structure fire around 8:20 p.m., according to the agency’s post on Facebook.
The unattended candle ignited a mattress and dresses, but was contained within the room, OBFD reported.
All of the home’s residents were safe and not displaced; OBFD also rescued two cats and a dog.
OBFD issued a reminder to never leave candles unattended and to keep flammable items away from open flames as a prevention measure.
COPS CORNER
AUG. 18
‘SOVEREIGN CITIZEN’
11:45 a.m. — 300 block of West Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach
Resisting an officer without violence. A 35-year-old California woman refused to provide her driver’s license to police after she was pulled over for having an expired tag, stating she was a “sovereign citizen” and exempt from laws.
Warrants served for alleged Palm Coast drug trafficker
Following a lengthy investigation by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit, detectives served three arrest warrants on Tram Nguyen, 37, a Palm Coast drug trafficker and current inmate at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility. These warrants stem from a series of undercover narcotics purchases that occurred earlier this year.
On Aug. 25, SIU detectives obtained three warrants for Nguyen for trafficking in meth-
According to her arrest report, the woman continued to refuse to follow the officer’s orders, and the officer called for additional units to help. She eventually handed over her driver’s license after the officer ordered her out of the vehicle and opened her door. She was arrested for resisting, and continued to resist as she was placed inside the patrol car. After being transported to the police department, she asked for an ambulance, stating she would not survive transport to the jail due to “heat and panic.” After she was cleared at the hospital, she was taken to jail. Police also discovered she didn’t have valid car insurance
AUG. 24
‘UNTOUCHABLE’ MAN ARRESTED
5:29 p.m. — 1300 block of
amphetamine (28 grams to 200 grams), sale of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a place of worship, sale of cocaine within 1,000 feet of a place of worship, and other charges.
Detectives served the warrants at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, where Nguyen has been in custody since May 27, when she was arrested after deputies found narcotics in her vehicle during a traffic stop.
“This poison peddler has already been in jail for the last few months, and now she is facing even more charges,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “... Our team works diligently to put drug dealers in the Green Roof Inn before they can sell a fatal dose.”
Nguyen is being held in jail on a $337,500 bond.
Ormond’s Highbridge Park to close temporarily
Highbridge Park, located at 39 Highbridge Road in Ormond Beach, will close
North Woodland Boulevard, DeLand
Disturbing the peace. Deputies arrested a 47-year-old Ormond Beach man who was being disorderly at a fast-food restaurant in DeLand.
The man had been spotted leaving from a motel he had been previously trespassed with a box of of alcoholic tea. Deputies were investigating this when they received the call about a patron yelling at other customers at the restaurant.
Deputies responded, and when the man caught side of them, he tried to walk away. He was quickly detained.
The man told deputies he was a “20 gang member” and that he could do as he wishes because he is “untouchable.”
from Sept. 8-19 for parking lot
repair. The park, boat ramp, and fishing pier will reopen Sept. 20.
This one-acre park provides access to the Halifax River with a free canoe launch and boat ramp. A fishing pier winds under the Highbridge Road Bridge.
For more information, contact Parks, Recreation and Culture Director Tim Baylie at tbaylie@volusia.org.
Volusia County Council’s Troy Kent to host district meeting
Volusia County Council District 4 Member Troy Kent will host a community meeting from 5 to 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 15, at Holly Hill City Hall, 1065 S. Ridgewood Ave. Residents can ask questions and voice concerns during this open discussion.
This is part of Kent’s quarterly District Dialogue 4 Residents series. His district includes Ormond Beach, Ormond-by-the-Sea, Holly Hill, the western half of Day-
He was taken to jail.
AUG. 26
AN ALLERGY PROBLEM
3:45 p.m. – 5100 block of State Road 100, Palm Coast Petit theft. A Jacksonville man was arrested by Sheriff’s Office deputies when he was caught with over $500 in stolen allergy medication.
A department store contacted the Sheriff’s Office about the theft and a nearby deputy pulled the suspect over in the store’s parking lot. On the passenger seat of the suspect’s car were multiple boxes of several antihistamines and allergy medications, according to the man’s arrest report.
The suspect refused to answer any questions, but
tona Beach, and eastern portions of DeLand and DeLeon Springs.
Reservations are not required. For more information, call the County Manager’s Office at 386-736-5920.
Registration open for Flagler County’s 2026 Citizens’ Academy
Registration is open for the 2026 Flagler County Citizens’ Academy that will be held on Wednesday mornings beginning February 18, and officials invite residents to treat themselves to this enriching educational endeavor. The course is designed to introduce participants to the dayto-day operations of Flagler County government, inclusive of its elected Constitutional Officers.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity for residents to learn about the responsibilities and operations of our county departments and because the classes are held at a variety of county facilities, participants experience first-hand
surveillance footage showed the suspect picking up the medications and stuffing them in his pant’s waistband before leaving the store. The suspect stole 15 boxes medications, totaling $527.85.
Between 1999 and 2024, the suspect had eight prior convictions for theft. He was charged with petit theft and taken to jail.
AUG. 26
THE SILENT TYPE
12:22 p.m. – 400 block of South Ocean Shore Boulevard, Flagler Beach, Shoplifting. A Jacksonville man was arrested after he stole $6.82 worth of drinks from a Flagler Beach gas station.
the broad range of resources and capabilities that Flagler County provides,” said County Administrator Heidi Petito. “Local governments that support and encourage resident participation in its citizens academy is essential to foster a deeper understanding of civic responsibilities, governance structures, and the policymaking process.” The academy will be held on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon, and it will wrap up with a 13th session – a Monday afternoon Board of County Commissioners Roundtable at 4 p.m. May 18, followed by graduation at the regular BOCC meeting that begins at 5 p.m. There is no fee to attend this program, but Flagler County requires all participants to register as the class size is limited to 24 participants. Participants are asked to commit to attending all sessions.
Visit www.FlaglerCounty. gov/academy. Registrations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis of those county residents able to attend all sessions.
The store owner called the police when the man walked out with a soda and an energy drink, only for the man to sit down across the street at a table. When police arrived, the man was placed under arrest for shoplifting. However, the man refused to identify himself to police. Though he was asked multiple times, and refused to cooperate with the fingerprinting process, the man was eventually booked into the jail under the alias “John Doe.” He sat in the jail for a day until the Sheriff’s Office facial recognition system identified him. The man was additionally charged with obstructing police without violence.
Ormond Beach Fire responds to a structure fire in the 100 block of Highland Avenue. Courtesy of the OBFD Facebook
Paul Renner to run for Florida governor
Renner, a Palm Coast resident, was speaker of the Florida House of Representatives from 2022 to 2024.
BRIAN MCMILLAN PUBLISHER
Paul Renner is running for governor.
The former speaker of the Florida House of Representatives filed on Sept. 3, in a bid to succeed Gov. Ron DeSantis as governor of the third most populous state in the nation. Renner, a Republican, is a 20-year military veteran and attorney by trade.
Originally, he said, knowing that he had a record of success in the Florida Legislature from 2015 to 2024, he had been considering what other candidate he might support for governor. Since he termed out in 2024, he said, “I was pretty happy making money, having fun with my kids.”
But, he said, he doesn’t want the state to go backward, after the progress it’s made.
The decision to run, he said, comes after “a lot of prayer” and gaining support from his family.
When asked about his priorities, the first was clear: “Right now, affordability, cost of living, is top of mind for a lot of people.”
In his tenure in the Florida House, Renner helped pass reforms to stem the rise of homeowners insurance costs. He also helped pass an inflation-based adjustment to the Homestead Exemption, which limits the increase in taxes despite increasing property values.
“So, I was thinking about property taxes before the topic became cool,” he said. He doesn’t believe there will be enough support statewide to eliminate property taxes completely, but he has other ideas for how to limit the growth of local government and taxes.
“At the state level, we’re almost the cheapest, as far as the lowest cost per capita, but that’s not true at the local level, where property taxes have increased at twice rate as the rest of the nation,” he said. That puts a hardship on seniors who have been in their homes for decades, but who haven’t seen an increase in their income.
Supporting state infrastructure and water quality have to be priorities, he said. Renner praised DeSantis, saying that the two of them were often aligned. Like DeSantis, Renner would be a governor who gets involved in state issues, even when the job description doesn’t necessarily suggest it, if he feels it’s needed to protect conservative values.
NEWS BRIEFS
“What I think is unique and special is the governor didn’t need to get involved in fighting these radical amendments, like pot and abortion,” Renner said, when asked what he has learned from DeSantis. “And it wasn’t part of the speaker of the house’s job duties to do that, either. But if the left is coming after the Florida that we love, this governor has proven he will stop them, and so have I.”
Similarly, DeSantis and Renner worked to stop “woke administrators and teachers” who were not aligned with most Florida parents’ views on education, Renner said.
Like DeSantis, Renner said he wouldn’t be “sitting at my desk” waiting for people to come to him. Instead, he will be proactive. “It’s something people can rely on because they’ve seen me do it,” Renner said.
Regarding local governments, Renner said he would like to see any tax or fee increase to be passed by twothirds of the local elected board, not just by a majority.
“I’d also like to have the taxpayers have a chance to say, ‘We don’t allow that,’” he added. “Taxpayers should be the backstop.”
Some local governments, particularly around Miami, have “gone wild” with tax increases, he said.
“I’m a no-tax guy,” he said. “We have to have restraints. … Government should never grow faster than people’s wages grow.”
Local government, he said, needs to focus on the things only government can do well: public safety, infrastructure, water quality and conservation.
“You do the things you must do, and do it really well,” he said.
The next governor will be chosen on the November 2026 ballot.
Email brian@observer localnews.com.
new fire station will be 10,000 square feet in size.
Construction for the project began in April 2025 as the city began clearing the land at 350 Palm Coast Parkway NE. The project is expected to cost around $9.7 million and has $3 million in grant funding from the American Rescue Plan Act that must be used be the end of 2026. According to the city’s project progress website, the land was finished being cleared in May. As of the end of August, the cement walls of the fire station have gone vertical, and more of the interior is beginning to take shape, including the bays where the fire engines will be stored, the website said. For updates on projects in Palm Coast, visit palmcoast. gov/pcprogress.
FHBA intends to sue city for impact fees hikes
Councilman Dave Sullivan: ‘The builders association can take their shot.’
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
The Flagler Home Builder’s Association has served Palm Coast a 14-day violation notice, the first step in taking legal action against Palm Coast’s recent impact fee increase.
The notice was sent to the Palm Coast City Council on Aug. 27, giving the city until Sept. 11 to repeal the impact fee ordinances passed in June. Palm Coast City Attorney Marcus Duffy told the council on Sept. 2 that he and his staff are still analyzing the 19-page notice and will have a suggested course of action in the next week or two.
“If I have to call a shade meeting, I will call that, but I do not see calling that right now,” Duffy said.
A shade meeting is a closeddoor meeting that is typically only allowed when the council is discussing active legal cases involving the city.
The next public meeting is a workshop scheduled for Sept. 9 at 6 p.m.
In June, the Palm Coast City Council increased its impact fees dramatically, arguing the extraordinary circumstances of recent extreme growth and increased inflation costs over the last six years. Though the impact fees vary for type of development, for a single-
family home, the impact fees increased by $5,881 across all three fees: impact, fire and transportation.
“The Flagler HBA alleges that the City unlawfully adopted three separate impact fee increases which more than double the impact fees on homes and businesses,” a FHBA press release said.
Typically, Florida state law prohibits municipalities from increasing impact fees by more than 50% of the current rate and any increase must also be phased in over a twoto four-year period and the fees can not be increased but once every four years.
However, Florida Statutes allow exceptions in the case of extraordinary circumstances. The lawsuit will argue “that the city’s fee increases lack the required nexus to new development and violate state law, creating an unnecessary burden on residents, businesses, and potential homeowners,” the press release said.
Attorney Daniel Webster of Daytona Beach is representing the FHBA; Intracoastal Construction, LLC; Integrity Homes USA, LLC; Thomas Consulting and Construction, LLC; 1621 Building and Remodeling, LLC; and Florida Green Building Construction, Inc. — contractors and real estate developers that do business in Palm Coast. Palm Coast residents William R. Barrick and Brad M. Thomas are also listed as his clients in the legal notice.
“My clients are prepared to file a civil action to contest all three (3) Ordinances if the
City does not repeal, or take affirmative action as required pursuant to the above- referenced statutes to repeal, within fourteen (14) days after receipt of this notice,” the legal notice reads.
Councilman Dave Sullivan said Palm Coast went through a long process with the impact fees, and the council was very careful to do things in a legal manner. The Home Builders Association had plenty of time to talk in the meetings, and event agreed with increasing the impact fees.
“The question was how much,” Sullivan said. “We discussed that a lot, and we actually came back off what the staff had recommended.”
In the end, he said, there is no “government group above” the city when it comes to deciding impact fees.
“We’re the final deciding factor on that,” Sullivan said. “So the Builders Association can take their shot.”
Webster is a practicing Daytona Beach attorney with a focus in, among other areas, real estate, construction litigation and civil litigation, according to volusiabar.org.
Webster said in the notice that Palm Coast violated a
senate bill preventing cities from adopting more restrictive amendments to land development regulations within a year of a hurricane making impact – in this case, Hurricane Milton. He also states all three ordinances violate the Florida Impact Fee Act in multiple ways, including that the data relied on to make the decision was national and state data, not local, and thus insufficient under the Florida Impact Fee Act and caselaw. In tandem with Long’s message, he states the listed “extraordinary circumstances… do not meet any definition of extraordinary circumstances, as applied under Florida caselaw.”
Webster said the inflation and population growth relied upon to make the decision was “the norm, certainly not extraordinary” in Florida.
FHBA Executive Officer Annamaria Long said the notice accurately states the defects and deficiencies of the ordinances the city passed.
“We are committed to protecting citizens and ensuring a fair business environment in our community,” she said.
Charter review to begin earlier, seeking more input
The council agreed to have the committee meetings begin in October, instead of January.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Palm Coast’s first Charter Review Committee meeting was on Aug. 25, and already there seem to be bumps in the road.
Committee member
Michael Martin attended the Palm Coast City Council’s Sept. 2 meeting to protest a proposed tight timeline for the committee’s meetings that he said would not allow enough time to finalize changes to the city’s charter. The committee’s business meetings were not set to begin until January, he said.
“I’m concerned that we’re not going to have enough time to do our due diligence and present you with the best report,” Martin said.
The Charter Review Committee has a deadline of March
31 to complete the amendments to the city’s charter. After that, the changes are submitted to the Palm Coast City Council for approval to be placed on the November ballot for approval by Palm Coast residents.
Martin told the council he was concerned there would not be enough time to complete all the work needed under such a tight timeline if the committee’s business meetings only begin in January. He asked the council to speed up the schedule to allow business meetings to begin before the end of the year.
“I want to make sure that everybody on the committee has a chance to speak their opinion and to make sure that we listen to the public and we take their ideas and include it in our discussions,” he said.
Acting City Manager Lauren Johnston and City Clerk Kaley Cook, who is the committee’s project manager, confirmed that the consultant was first beginning with gathering information from Palm Coast residents through upcoming community meetings.
The intent, Johnston said,
is for the consultant to return to the committee with data about what residents would like to see changed. Cook is working with Parks and Recreation staff to schedule those meetings as early as September.
“She [the consultant] has done this before,” Johnston said, “and it’s the process she finds the most impactful.”
But the council felt the committee could hold their meetings concurrently with the community events.
“I’m with Mr. Martin,” Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri said. “I don’t think starting this process, as far as the business meetings go, in January is going to be sufficient. I think our charter — there’s issues. There’s a lot of issues.”
The rest of the council agreed, and the board reached a consensus for the Charter Review Committee to begin their business meetings in October instead.
“It sounds like it’s going to be hard for them to come up with a true finished product that’s ready for review unless they push ahead,” Councilman Dave Sullivan said.
Mayor Mike Norris pointed out that 2026 is an election year as well. If the council is going to meet the deadline to get the charter changes on the ballot, he said, “there’s a lot of work to be done.”
Attorney Marcus Duffy said the consultant had paced out the community meetings and committee business meetings so the final product would be available for the council’s review in time in March for two business meetings. Pontieri said that only allows the committee two months to make and agree to changes throughout the city’s charter.
“I don’t think that’s acceptable,” she said.
Councilman Ty Miller said this is too important to wait and squeeze the work in. There are likely going to be a lot of proposed changes that have to be workshopped, he said.
“It’s going to take time to get those [changes] whittled down to a viable product,” Miller said. “It’s got to be in a usable product at the end for us and then the residents to make the decisions on when it comes to the referendum.”
City Councilman Ty Miller and Vice Mayor Theresa Pontieri. Photo by Sierra Williams
The new Fire Station 22 is going up at the corner of Palm Coast Parkway and Colbert Lane. Photo
Paul Renner. File photo
NEWS BRIEFS
Palm Coast Vice Mayor Pontieri to run for County Commission
Palm Coast Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri has announced she is running for Greg Hansen’s District 2 seat on the Flagler County Commission. Pontieri, a partner at the law firm Lesak, Hamilton, Calhoun & Pontieri PLLC, was elected to the Palm Coast District 2 seat in 2022, and elected by her fellow council members as vice mayor in 2024. The Palm Coast District 2 and 4 seat are both up for reelection in 2026, as are the Flagler County Commission’s District 2 and 4 seats.
“As a leader, attorney, and lifelong advocate for my community, I am committed to being a voice for Palm Coast on our County Commission and ensuring that our county remains a place where families and businesses can thrive,” Pontieri said. “I look forward to working with residents and community leaders to build a brighter, stronger future for all.”
The Flagler County Commission’s District 2 seat includes the northeast Flagler communities of The Hammock, Beverly Beach and areas east of Interstate 95.
As a council member, Pontieri said she has worked to lower the city property tax rate each year and “stood up against growth that is outpacing infrastructure.”
If elected as commissioner, Pontieri said she will champion “a fiscally conservative approach and prioritize eco-
nomic vitality, public safety, and essential infrastructure, while controlling spending, keeping taxes low, and balancing growth.”
Pontieri said she will focus on transparent budgeting, smart growth, a careful oversight of tax dollars and collaborating with boards, stakeholders and state partners to improve economic sustainability in the county.
Recognizing beach nourishment as essential for storm protection and economic vitality, Pontieri said she will work with commissioners, staff, state and federal partners to create a sustainable beach management plan.
“I promise to continue to listen to constituents, hold regular town halls, work hard, govern with integrity, and lead with strength, passion, and the mindset of a servant leader,” Pontieri said.
Officials lean toward referendum to decide fate of half-cent sales tax
The revenue would be used partially to fund beach renourishment, while the cities would also receive a portion.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Should a half cent be added to the local sales tax to fund beach projects and other local priorities? Leaders of Flagler County’s municipalities indicated they could be in favor of putting that question up for a community vote, as a referendum on the November 2026 ballot.
The Flagler County Commission was originally considering implementing a half-cent sales tax for beach renourishment back in the spring. But to levy the tax from the dais requires a supermajority vote — four of the five seats — to approve the tax.
But in May, Commissioners Pam Richardson, Leann Pennington and Kim Carney were against adding the sales tax.
County Administrator Heidi Petito said at the Aug. 27 joint meeting that the municipalities should discuss whether the county should add a halfcent funding option to the November 2026 ballot.
Especially since 10.3 miles of Flagler County’s shoreline, up from 8 miles, are now considered “critically eroded” by the Department of Environmental Protection. The designation makes Flagler County eligible for 50-50 cost shares with state aid.
Dance acknowledged that if the half-cent sales tax went to referendum it “definitely is political at that point, as we
approach election season.”
“It’s an uphill battle, I’m not going to deny that,” he said. “The best you can do is give the information to the residents and let them decide.”
Commissioner Jeff Schuitema from Beverly Beach and Commissioners Eric Cooley and Rick Belhumeur were in support of the item going to referendum.
Bunnell Mayor Catherine Robinson said that, though their commission was initially onboard with a half-cent sales tax, she would need to check in with the other commissioners about a referendum, as that was not discussed prior and the commission has two new members.
Pennington said the county has not come to a consensus on a referendum vote for the sales tax. She pointed out that not only would there be new boards, but there would need to be consensus that each government is going to commit to give its percentage to the beach renourishment.
Councilman Ty Miller and Mayor Mike Norris were both in attendance on behalf of the Palm Coast City Council. Miller said he believed the last time the county and council discussed a referendum vote for a half-cent tax for beach renourishment, the other council members were on board.
During the meeting, and later on, at the Sept. 2 council meeting, Norris has said in the past he supports a half-cent tax, as necessity items would not be taxed, but he did point out at the joint meeting that it would be difficult to pass.
“The citizens of our city want very tight accountability, and their money going to where it says it’s going,” he said.
The implementation of any kind of additional tax has not gone over well in Flagler County, though residents did approve the renewal of a half-cent sales tax for Flagler Schools in 2022. The success of a half-cent tax to partially fund beach maintenance would require education, Cooley said. Residents need to understand their municipalities will get extra funding from the tax as well.
“I think it’s just going to take a little bit of education and some media to get that out there so all those citizens really understand what the true benefit is,” Cooley said. “The money just doesn’t go into sand getting dumped on a beach.”
At the Sept. 2 Palm Coast City Council meeting, Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri said the public would need to be provided with “accurate and thorough information.”
“I would like to see more data provided to the residents prior to a vote like this,” Pontieri said. “I think it’s incumbent upon the county to provide residents with information as to where current monies that are for the beach come from.”
Palm Coast City Councilman Ty Miller. Photo by Sierra Williams
Most restrictions on house colors removed in final Palm Coast vote
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
After reviewing many shades of revisions, the Palm Coast City Council has finally approved its new house color regulations.
The new ordinance removes the restrictions of a Light Reflective Value scale for single-family residential homes and keeps a small list of prohibited colors: fluorescent colors and any shade of purple, fuchsia, magenta and orange. The changes only apply to single-family residential homes; multi-family homes and nonresidential buildings must still use the LRV scale and the restrictions within the city’s code.
The council voted 4-1 to approve the new regulations, with Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri dissenting, at the Sept. 2 meeting. The issue was quickly voted on, with no additional discussion by the council.
“This is only three years in the making,” Mayor Mike Norris said.
In the most recent iteration, the council has been reviewing different versions of an amended house color ordinance since early 2024. Pontieri, who voted against
the ordinance on Aug. 19 as well, had said in the past that she would like to see it on a referendum instead. The issue is divisive, with some people wanting no restrictions and others wanting to keep the restrictions on house colors in place. Pontieri said on July 15 that she felt some restrictions would balance the rights of both sides.
“Reasonable regulation is in place for a reason,” Pontieri said at the July 15 meeting.
NEW APPOINTEES FOR TWO COMMITTEES
The Palm Coast City Council has selected two new appointees to fill vacancies on the Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee and the Citizen Advisory Committee.
The positions were filled by vote by the council members at the Sept. 2 meeting.
Councilman Ty Miller, who represents Palm Coast on the Volusia-Flagler Transportation Planning Organization that oversees these committees, thanked everyone who applied.
He said one of the reasons the seats were open was because the appointees had not attended the meetings In recent months.
“I just want to ensure those
FPL reached with businesses and other groups this month.
Florida Power
& Light blasts foes’ rate proposal
Florida Power & Light on Friday blasted a proposed rate settlement offered by the state Office of Public Counsel and some consumer groups, calling it “illusory and unenforceable” and urging regulators to reject it.
FPL filed a response three days after the Office of Public Counsel — an agency designated in state law to represent consumers in utility issues — and four groups filed what was described as a “counter proposal” at the Florida Public Service Commission. The Office of Public Counsel and its allies oppose a proposed settlement that
“Simply put, what the movants (the Office of Public Counsel and the four groups) have filed is not a settlement at all,” FPL attorneys wrote in the 14-page response. “Calling the documents that the movants filed a settlement defies general common sense; walks dangerously close to a bad faith filing from a legal perspective; and, at best, is a ham-handed media stunt that attempts to turn this proceeding into a circus.”
The Public Service Commission is scheduled in October to hold a hearing in the base-rate case, which likely will lead to FPL customers paying billions of additional dollars over the next four years.
The plan filed Tuesday, Aug. 26, by the Office of Public Counsel and the groups Florida Rising, the League of
applying understand the importance of showing up,” Miller said. “I feel like there’s never really an excuse except for when you’re in an emergency situation to not attend.”
For the BPAC, David Lybarger was selected as the primary to fill that open seat and Anthony Del Valle was selected as the alternate if Lybarger is absent. Lybarger is a business owner and Del Valle a corporate security manager, according to their applications. They were the only two applicants.
The BPAC is responsible for reviewing plans, policies and procedures related to bicycle and pedestrian issues with the TPO. The committee also annually ranks bicycle and pedestrian priority project applications during the TPO’s Call for Projects.
The Citizen Advisory Committee had one seat available and one alternate seat available and four applicants. Del Valle was selected as the primary for the CAC and Mark Woods, a business owner, was selected as the alternate.
The CAC provides citizen input and recommendations to the TPO Board on transportation planning and programming.
United Latin American Citizens of Florida, Environmental Confederation of Southwest Florida and Floridians Against Increased Rate would lead to smaller increases than a proposed settlement filed Aug. 20 by FPL and numerous businesses and groups.
In Tuesday’s filing, the Office of Public Counsel and its allies identified themselves as the “customer majority parties,” while identifying the parties in FPL’s proposed settlement as the “special interest parties.”
“The majority settlement agreement (the proposal filed by the Office of Public Coun sel and its allies) contains proposed resolutions which fully resolve all of the issues in (the case) and results in cus tomer rates that are actually in the public interest and not disproportionately favorable to the special interest par ties,” Tuesday’s filing said.
Ormond mayor: No discussion on eliminating youth sports
Social media claims circulate. City makes further budget cuts.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Defunding youth sports? That hasn’t been discussed, Ormond Beach mayor Jason Leslie said.
A Facebook post published on local community groups on Wednesday, Aug. 27, stated that the mayor planned to propose cutting funding for all city recreational sports in order to “shift dollars elsewhere.”
The post asked the community to attend the City Commission meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 3 — where the commission will vote on the budget — to protect youth sports.
Leslie said the post’s claims are untrue.
“There has been no discussion by myself or the Commission to eliminate Ormond Beach Sports,” he said in a statement to the Observer “This is exactly the kind of rumor that gets started by political opponents to create unnecessary fear and confusion.”
House panel to look at property taxes
As Gov. Ron DeSantis pushes to slash property taxes, a House select committee is expected to meet Sept. 22 and Sept. 23 to resume looking at the issue.
The House Select Committee on Property Taxes is tentatively scheduled to meet
The Ormond Beach City Commission last discussed the budget for fiscal year 2025-2026 at its workshop on Aug. 19, during which they reduced the budget by cutting funding for vehicle and equipment replacement, an IT analyst position and a Consumer Price Index adjustment for the city’s landscaping contract.
The proposed tax rate increase went from 10.2% to 7.66%.
At the Aug. 19 workshop, the mayor did say he wanted further cuts, but when asked by commissioners for ideas on where to trim the budget down further, Leslie said he’d need time to think about it.
City staff reported that further budget cuts would lead to service reductions, particularly in parks and recreation, and likely would need to include recreational facility closures.
Cutting funding from youth sports was not an option discussed at the workshop, nor presented by city staff.
Following that workshop, staff reduced the tax rate by another 0.03 mills. Finance Director Kelly McGuire said in an email that this came after an update from the city’s brokers that the insurance market would likely provide a flat
during the afternoon of Sept. 22 and the morning of Sept. 23, according to a document posted on the House website.
Speaker Daniel Perez, RMiami, established the select committee this spring, and it met twice in May.
DeSantis wants lawmakers to place a proposed constitutional amendment on the November 2026 ballot aimed at cutting property taxes.
renewal, reducing the budget by $175,000.
A memo dated Sept. 3 from City Attorney Randy Hayes to the commission stated two options will be presented for consideration: A millage rate of 4.4497, or a rollback rate of 3.9672 mills.
“This option is based on the mayor’s withdrawal of support for Option 1 that he agreed to at the August 19 workshop, and his stated intention on social media posts to seek further budget reductions,” Hayes wrote. “Option 2 will require the city commission to make significant reductions to the budget in funding for police, fire, utilities, recreation and leisure services (for children and elderly people), general services, and facilities.” Hayes encouraged the commission approve a tax rate increase due to “financialrisks and liabilities associated with the mayor’s intention to seek deep reductions in the millage rate and the budget, and the uncertainties those reductions would have on the ability of the city to deliver quality services to residents.”
“Sound fiscal management and responsible leadership require it.” Hayes wrote.
Lawmakers likely will consider the issue during the 2026 legislative session, which will start in January. DeSantis and state Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia have launched audits of some local governments as they try to build support for cutting property taxes. Local governments rely heavily on property taxes to fund services.
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$9 million in FEMA funding secured for Flagler’s northern beaches
The funding was stuck in red tape before U.S. Rep. Randy Fine said he stepped in to help get them released.
SIERRA WILLIAMS
STAFF WRITER
An additional almost $9 million in beach restoration funding that was tied up in bureaucratic red tape is on its way to Flagler’s beaches thanks in part to U.S. Rep. Randy Fine.
The money, from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, was already earmarked for Flagler County, both Fine and coastal engineer Ansley Wren-Key said at an Aug. 27 press conference, but was just awaiting a final approval before the funding could be released to the county. Fine said that he learned of the issue on his initial tour in Flagler County on the week of Aug. 15.
Wren-Key said the funding was for an application the county filed after Hurricane Milton in October 2024. Milton eroded most of the dunes in the area north of MalaCompra, she said, and Flagler County filed a damage report and application for funding to fix the issue the following January.
For a while, she received updates on the request’s progress, but those eventually stopped coming, she said. That was when Flagler County got the congressman involved.
Fine said he was able to
tackle this problem as soon as he left his tour of Flagler County’s beaches. He started making phone calls and, within days, the funds were approved.
“Every problem, I’m not going to be able to solve in two weeks,” Fine said, “but this was one that we were able to, and we’re proud to do it.”
Fine credited the holdup to bureaucracy within FEMA.
“At the end of the day, it’s not about how big the government is. It’s not about how many employees it has,” he said. “It’s about, is it serving the needs of the people?”
The almost $9 million in federal funding will be applied to the beaches from MalaCompra to Marineland, Wren-Key said, and could begin on Nov. 1. Flagler County already has dune restoration projects ongoing, and the county would just need to extend the contract with the current contractor. Flagler County Commission Chair Andy Dance called Flagler’s beaches “the backbone of our community’s natural infrastructure, economy, and identity.”
“Over the last decade, storms and hurricanes have
reminded us how fragile our coastline is,” Dance said. “But also how resilient Flagler County can be when we work hand in hand with our partners.”
Fine said he lives on the beach and has had two homes in his family lost to hurricanes. Through his experience, he said he understands the challenges of dune restoration. One of the reasons he was willing to make the phone calls on behalf of Flagler County, he said, is because Flagler is approaching beach restoration “the right way.”
The natural solution of the roots of plants in the dunes to hold the sand in place is the best solution to dune erosion, he said.
“We have to return to natural dunes with natural growth on those dunes to hold the sand into place,” he said.
Fine said it is important that Florida preserve its natural areas and said it is “the single largest local issue.”
“Whether it’s our beaches, the Intracoastal Waterway, the St. Johns River, our springs, our rivers, our lakes,” Fine said, “if we don’t preserve those, we lose what makes Florida Florida.”
“Whether it’s our beaches, the Intracoastal Waterway, the St. Johns River, our springs, our rivers, our lakes. If we don’t preserve those, we lose what makes Florida Florida.” — RANDY FINE
Teens-In-Flight President Lehman, 69, unexpectedly dies on Aug. 22
‘Ric
embodied the spirit of service that defines our organization,’ said Col. Howell, founder.
OBSERVER STAFF
Teens-In-Flight announced last week the unexpected death of President Ricky Carson “Ric” Lehman on Thursday, Aug. 22, at his residence in Palm Coast.
“Ric’s passion, selflessness, and dedication helped lift the mission of Teens-In-Flight and changed countless young lives in our community,” a press release stated.
Born Nov. 11, 1955, in Battle Creek, Michigan, Carson was a graduate of Union City High School and Western Michigan University. A licensed pilot and ground flight instructor, he brought decades of aviation expertise to his role as executive director, vice president, and board member for Teens-In-Flight. His professional background also included leadership positions as executive director of Spirit Horse International and president of Haven Horse Ranch in Northeast Florida.
“Ric embodied the spirit of service that defines our organization,” said Col. Jack Howell, founder of Teens-InFlight. “As both a skilled aviator and devoted Christian, he consistently sought ways to use his talents to serve others and inspire young people to reach new heights through aviation.”
The Board of Directors and Teens-In-Flight family have come together, committed to carrying Ric’s vision forward, the press release stated. At the organization’s regularly scheduled board meeting on Saturday, Aug. 23, Howell was unanimously voted in as president. Howell, who is the founder and previously served as president, brings years of leadership and a deep dedication to the nonprofit’s continued service and impact.
“We are heartbroken by Ric’s passing, but united in our resolve to honor his legacy and keep his spirit alive in our mission,” Howell said. “Together, we will continue to empower young people through aviation, just as Ric would have wanted.”
Ric is survived by his wife, Levita Garnett Lehman; his mother, Rulah Eloise; his sister, Cindy; sons Jarret and Jayce; stepdaughter Sara;
and seven grandchildren. A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 5, at Parkview Church, 5435 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast.
“Teens-In-Flight remains committed to supporting local youth and beyond through aviation education and is grateful for the outpouring of support from the community during this challenging time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Teens-In-Flight in Ric’s memory,” the press release stated.
The organization is located at 275 Old Moody Blvd., at the Flagler Executive Airport. Call 386-345-2FLY. For more information or to support Teens-In-Flight, visit teensinflight.org.
Congressman Randy Fine and the Flagler County officials after a press conference. Courtesy photo
Ricky Carson “Ric” Lehman (center, left) attends a ribbon cutting for Teens-In-Flight’s new hanger in 2022. Courtesy photo
Teens-In-Flight President Ricky Carson “Ric” Lehman
Ormond Beach cancer survivor honored at the Coke Zero Sugar 400
Corrine Graczewski was the first in Volusia and Flagler counties to receive a new cancer treatment.
ADVENTHEALTH COMMUNICATIONS
During this year’s Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway, millions of fans who tuned into the broadcast saw the name Corrine Graczewski speed past them on the car driven by NASCAR Cup Series driver Erik Jones.
For Graczewski, a 72-yearold cancer survivor from Ormond Beach and lifelong racing fan, it was a full-circle moment. She wasn’t just watching the race. She was part of it.
Graczewski was selected as one of 82 Cancer Heroes in three different series for the Martin Truex Jr. Foundation and The NASCAR Foundation’s Honor a Cancer Hero program, an initiative that celebrates individuals who have faced cancer head-on. Her
name appeared on Jones’ car through a partnership between AdventHealth and Legacy Motor Club, paying tribute to her journey and uplifting cancer heroes everywhere.
“I couldn’t believe it,” Graczewski said. “My name on a race car — and Erik Jones’ car, no less! We’ve followed NASCAR for years. My son even raced Joey Logano when they were kids in Connecticut. This just means the world to me and my family.”
Graczewski’s cancer story began in 2020, when what appeared to be appendicitis turned out to be something far more serious. A CT scan revealed three different types of cancer — in her kidney, colon, and a rare neuroendocrine tumor. After surgery, including the removal of her left kidney, and remained cancer-free for nearly five years.
Then, earlier this year, her care team at AdventHealth Daytona Beach discovered a new tumor. This time, it was on her right adrenal gland, just millimeters from her only remaining kidney. It was a recurrence of her kidney cancer, and it required treatment
YOUR TOWN
Halifax chapter of MOAA resumes speaker series
The Halifax Area Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America’s 2025 speaker series is resuming in September.
The chapter — which represents retired, former ad active-duty military officers and their spouses — meets the fourth Thursday of every month at the Halifax River Yacht Club in Daytona Beach, save for June, July and August. The chapter is led by Chapter President retired Air Force Capt. Andrew Hoffman and its monthly luncheons feature guest speakers from the military, business, health and wellness, and civic communities, according to a press release.
“Our national motto is ‘Never Stop Serving,’ and that’s
with exceptional accuracy.
She became the first in Volusia and Flagler counties to receive Ethos adaptive radiation therapy, an advanced technology that adjusts in real time to a patient’s anatomy.
Ethos is part of a new generation of radiation therapy. By adapting to subtle shifts in tumor and organ position, Ethos helps protect healthy tissue while targeting the cancer with unmatched accuracy.
“This machine was ideal for me,” Graczewski said. “It pinpoints exactly where the doctor wants the treatment to go — it doesn’t affect the rest of your body. I got through all five treatments with no pain, no sickness, and only a little bit of tiredness.”
“It was kind of surreal,” she added. “They played music during treatment, and before I knew it — seven songs later — I was done. No clunking, no pain. It was peaceful.”
Radiation oncologist Dr. Shiv Desai, who led Graczewski’s treatment, said the technology allows doctors to tailor care with extraordinary
exactly what our members live by,” Hoffman said. “We are committed to supporting one another and advocating for earned benefits, healthcare, and family programs for those who have served and those still in uniform.”
The 2025 speaker series will include speakers such as Gary Wilson from the Wounded Warrior Umpire Academy, David Lydon from Flagler County Veterans Affairs, and Dr. Itzel Harriott, who is committed to providing affordable, trauma-informed counseling for underserved communities.
October’s meeting will
honor surviving spouses, and December’s will feature the chapter’s festive Holiday Gala and Silent Auction.
The chapter currently has 106 members. Among their community engagement initiatives are “Bagels and Bingo” at the Emory L. Bennett Veterans Nursing Home, “Coffee and Donuts” at the Daytona Veterans Affairs Clinic, and scholarships for high school students and university cadets. The chapter also provides gold bars to new officers.
To learn more or get involved, visit www.halifax chaptermoaa.com.
Graczewski will now begin immunotherapy under thetologist and oncologist at AdventHealth Daytona Beach. A mother of three andence is something she’ll never forget — not just for the thrill,
“Being part of the Coke Zero Sugar 400 is more than an honor. It’s a reminder that we’re not alone,” she said. “There’s so much life after cancer. And now, my name has literally been part of the
“This technology and this team gave me my life back,” she added. “We’ve got a cruise coming up, and I plan to enjoy
Corrine Graczewski, Erik Jones and Steve Graczewski smile next to the car car driven by Jones, a NASCAR Cup Series driver.
Corrine Graczewski and Dr. Shiv Desai. Courtesy photos
MOAA members participate in a July 4 parade. Courtesy photo
A powerful tribute: Flagler County prepares for 24th anniversary of 9/11
Over 200 people will participate in the fifth annual stair climb at Hammock Beach.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
The most powerful moment of the 9/11 Memorial Tribute Climb is at the top, event organizer Lacy Martin said. At the top of the Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa’s 10-flight staircase, Martin said, a bystander will see how much participants struggle with the climb. A lot of the participants are firefighters and first responders, but they still struggle and have to stop and take a breather at the top of the 10 flights.
“Just to think, on 9/11 they didn’t get to stop,” Martin said. “It is truly powerful up there. ... I always tell people to go up there, just so they can understand how difficult [it was].” Martin has been involved with the stair climb since its inception in 2021 when Flagler County initially ran it.
The first stair climb had just 12 participants, she said, and this year they are expecting that around 250 people will attempt the climb. The event commemorates the first responders who died
trying to save people stuck in the Twin Towers at the World Trade Center during the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attack. Firefighters had to climb 110 flights of stairs to get to the top of the towers.
The fifth annual tribute climb, commemorating the 24th anniversary of 9/11 will once again be held at the Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa on Sept. 11. Registration opens at 7:45 a.m. and the
ceremony begins at 8:15 a.m. At 8:46 a.m. — the same time that the first plane crashed into the North Tower at the World Trade Center — the climb will begin. Participants will climb 10 flights of
stairs 11 times to signify the 110 flights of stairs that first responders had to climb on 9/11 to rescue people trapped in the Twin Towers. On Sept. 11, 2001, four terrorists hijacked commercial
Fire Station 40 in The Hammock will be on standby for emergencies or medical events during the 9/11 Memorial Tribute Stair Climb at Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa.
Pictured: Firefighter and medical rescue supervisor Chris Newcomb; Firefighter EMT Wesley Libby; Firefighter paramedic Justin Stone; Firefighter paramedic Lt. Jon Moscowitz; Firefighter EMT Connor WIckon and Cpt. Michael Pius. Photos by Sierra Williams
A Flagler County Fire Rescue firefighter kneels, with a U.S. flag on his back, waiting for the stair climb to begin.
“Putting yourself in that moment, its like, ‘Wow, these people put their lives at risk every single day for what? For strangers?’ It really is a very powerful tribute.”
LACY MARTIN
airplanes. Two of the airplanes were crashed into the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers, in New York City; the towers collapsed. Another plane hit the Pentagon, while the fourth plane, headed for Washington, D.C., crashed in a field in Pennsylvania.
The attacks killed 2,977 people that day and remains the deadliest terrorist attack on American soil.
First responders rushed to the scene before the towers collapsed in an attempt to rescue people trapped in the two buildings. The firefighters had to climb 110 flights of stairs to get to the top. When the towers fell, 343 firefighters and 71 police officers died.
Martin said this year the climb will also honor those 71 police officers by including their names on the poker chips participants will carry up the flights of stairs. Participants receive their poker chips with the name of one of the first responders who died on 9/11 when they register on the morning of the event. Martin said the intent is the climber carry that first responder with them through the 110 flights.
Flagler County Fire Chief Mike Tucker said that when he thinks about 9/11, he thinks of all the families whose loved ones did not come home.
Tucker has participated in the stair climb every year, as do several other Flagler County Fire Rescue personnel. He thinks about those broken lives every time he climbs, he said.
“That’s what keeps me stepping and doing it, is just remembering them for the sacrifice they paid,” he said. After 40 years as a firefighter, Tucker said there have been a few times when he has
NEWS BRIEFS
Second Harvest seeks support during Hunger Action Month
As the region’s largest emergency food provider, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is calling on members of the community to take at least one action to help feed hope during the month of September.
Hunger Action Month is observed every September and with federal funding cuts threatening local hunger relief efforts, Second Harvest is asking for the community’s support.
In a press release, the organization states the community can help by:
Registering for the inaugural “Hunger Never Sleeps” 24-hour volunteer marathon
gone into a situation and not known if he would come out the other end.
“It goes through your mind,” he said. “It’s also one of the things you can’t stop to think about, because if you stop to think about that, you lose focus on what you need to do.”
Remembering 9/11 is more than just about the tragedy, Martin said. It’s about today’s first responders, too. At any time, an emergency could happen in which local first responders could have to jump into action, she said.
“Putting yourself in that moment, its like, ‘Wow, these people put their lives at risk every single day for what? For strangers?’” Martin said.
“It really is a very powerful tribute, whether it’s 9/11 or just the dangers facing first responders every single day.”
To be a firefighter is to be committed, Tucker said: There’s no halfway. Someone who is only partially committed can’t do what needs to be done because they are operating from the defensive, he said, instead of being more proactive.
“You’ve got to be all in,” he said.
Martin said she’s grateful for the support of the Flagler County community who shows up every year to participate and remember. Each year, she said, she’s determined to do her part in educating the next generations about 9/11 and to do her part to remember those who died.
“It’s just very special to me,” she said, “and it’s the very least I can do to make a difference.”
“That’s what keeps me stepping and doing it, is just remembering them for the sacrifice they paid.”
MIKE TUCKER, Flagler County Fire Rescue Chief
Wearing orange on Sept. 9 for Hunger Action Day
Attending a “Food for Thought” tour on Sept. 17
Donating 30 nonperishable food items
Hosting a virtual food drive
Purchasing “hunger fighter” merchandise to wear throughout September and beyond
Donating $30 for 30 days to help feed hope
Signing up to volunteer in Orlando or Melbourne to help sort and prepare food for distribution
Becoming a monthly meal maker
Taking a pledge to advocate for hunger relief
Liking and following
SHFBCF on social media.
“Community generosity ensures that we can continue meeting the rising need for food assistance across Central Florida,” said Derrick Chubbs, president and CEO.
“Hunger is a daily crisis for thousands of families who face tough decisions about paying for food, housing or health care each month. Every action counts – no matter when it’s taken. From volunteering … to donating … to sharing Second Harvest’s mission of feeding hope, we all have a role to play.”
The Palm Coast City Council celebrated the grand reopening of Epic Theatres of Palm Coast in Town Center on Aug. 27.
Council members held a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Epic Theatres staff to celebrate the theatre’s major renovation. The $1 million renovation included upgrades
to all 14 auditoriums with luxury electric recliners, enhanced lighting, new flooring and advanced acoustical improvements, a Palm Coast press release said.
The renovation of Epic Theatres “underscores Town Center’s growing appeal as a hub for living, working and playing,” the press release said.
“On behalf of the city, I want to thank Epic Theatres for investing in Palm Coast and believing in this community. I think we can all agree—this deserves a standing ovation,”
Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri said.
Epic Theatres also added an Epic XTS Auditorium and a LUX Theatre, the press release said. The Epic XTS Auditorium has a laserprojected, wall-to-wall screen with a 24-channel audio system and zero-gravity recliners that have shaker-seat audio imbedded for an immersive experience.
The LUX Theatre is exclusive to those 17 and older, with massaging recliners that have charging ports.
Volunteers sort food donations inside Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida’s main distribution center in Orlando, Florida.
Epic Theatres had a grand reopening ribbon cutting on Aug. 27. Courtesy of Palm Coast
Firefighter EMT Wesley Libby holds one of the hoses that would be used during a structure fire at a multi-storied building like the Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa.
NEWS BRIEFS
New City Hall for Bunnell, new Commerce Parkway
Bunnell and Flagler County celebrated the completion of two major public projects: a new Bunnell City Hall and Police Department complex and a connector road between State Road 100 and Highway U.S. 1. The 17,800-square-foot complex combines Bunnell’s administrative offices, police department headquarters and an assembly hall into one space, a Bunnell press release said. The facility addresses Bunnell’s need for expanded operational capacity and modernized infrastructure.
“This new complex is more than a building — it’s a meaningful step forward for our city,” Mayor Catherine D. Robinson said. “We’re grateful to The Collage Companies for their care and commitment throughout this process. To-
gether, we’ve created a space that truly serves our community and reflects Bunnell’s values and future.”
The new complex is located at 2400 Commerce Parkway, which is the new road that directly connects to U.S. 1 on the south end of Bunnell.
Commerce Parkway, the new 1.7-mile roadway that officially opened on Aug. 29, will make it easier for emergency services to reach areas on the southwest side of the county. It is the culmination of 20 years of work by Flagler County and Bunnell.
Commerce Parkway has two, undivided 11-foot lanes with 8-foot roadside shoulders, five feet of which are paved, a previous Flagler County press release on the project said. It has a 5-foot sidewalk along the eastern side.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
How could woman pose as nurse?
Dear Editor:
As a registered nurse, I had to read the article about the woman posing as a nurse at least six or seven times to try to make sense of it.
From what I could tell, this woman was being hired as an advanced nurse tech but then told the interviewer that she had done all the schooling to be a registered nurse and that she just needed to pass the test.
During this same hiring process to be an advanced nurse tech, she then announced (perhaps a couple days later?) that she had “passed” the registered nurse’s test and presented her license which had the wrong last name on it.
She told the interviewer that she had just gotten married, thus the wrong last name on her license.
The interviewer asked her to bring in her marriage license to prove her last name had changed to the one on the license. Shockingly, she never brought her marriage license in to validate the last name on her registered nurse’s license but was hired and began working as a registered nurse on July 3, 2023, using a license that was not hers.
She worked for one and a half years, according to my calculations, as a registered nurse at Advent Health Hospital in Palm Coast having no education or license to be a registered nurse. According to her criminal investigation, in looking over just one six-month period from June 2024 through January 2025, she provided care to 4,486 patients.
This is scary stuff.
DARLA WIDNALL Ormond Beach
Half-cent sales tax is fairest way to fund Flagler beaches
Dear Editor:
I have been deeply concerned about the proposed MSBU (Municipal Service Benefit Unit for Flagler County’s beach management), which I have called a “Misguided Scheme to Burden Us” — because it unfairly suggested that only residents east of the Intracoastal should shoulder the costs of Reach III beach restoration, even though 85.5% of that shoreline is controlled by private gated communities.
That approach is discriminatory and inequitable, and I strongly opposed it. However, after speaking at length with several county officials, I have pivoted my focus and come to embrace the broader picture. The MSBU idea is still absurd and unfair. But I was reminded me of two key realities regarding our tax base and the benefits we all enjoy in Flagler County.
First, homeowners in Hammock Dunes, Ocean Hammock, Sea Colony, and Hammock Beach already pay some of the highest ad valorem taxes in the county, based on million-dollar property values. They are already contributing substantially to our countywide tax base.
Second, and even more importantly, healthy beaches benefit everyone in Flagler County. They protect property values countywide, draw tourism that funds essential county service, and sustain the quality of life we all enjoy.
Here’s an excellent point to consider: Every resident knows what they pay in property taxes because they write the check once a year. But hardly anyone can tell you how much sales tax they pay annually — because we
don’t track it. A small, half-cent countywide sales tax spread across residents, tourists and businesses is not only fair, it is less painful and more effective. Combine that with tourist development taxes, and we have a simple, sustainable formula for maintaining our beaches without burdening any single neighborhood or group of residents.
The truth is this: Our beaches are the lifeblood of Flagler County. Residents west of the Intracoastal, east on the barrier island and visitors alike all use and enjoy them. If we allow our beaches to deteriorate, we not only hurt oceanfront property owners — we hurt everyone, because declining beaches mean declining tourism, declining property values and higher taxes for all of us.
The simplest, fairest, and most sustainable approach is to enact a countywide half-cent sales tax, dedicate a portion of the tourism tax, and commit those funds transparently to beach management. That way, every resident and every visitor contributes, and we keep Flagler County’s beaches and shoreline healthy, secure, and beautiful for all to enjoy now and for future generations.
DR. MICHAEL RUEL Flagler County
SEND YOUR LETTERS What’s your opinion about the beach management plan? What else is on your mind? 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.
Bunnell and Flagler County officials celebrate the grand opening of Commerce Parkway
The new Bunnell City Hall and police department complex opened on Aug. 27. Photo courtesy of Flagler County
MY VIEW KRISTA GOODRICH, DISTRICT 2 SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER
Let’s praise the real progress of Volusia County Schools
When disruption replaces dialogue, and politics outweigh the pursuit of student success, our children lose.
In recent weeks, several principals, teachers, business owners, and community leaders have asked me to share my perspective as a School Board member about what is really happening in Volusia County Schools. They, like me, are concerned about a negative narrative being spread by some individuals, and they want our community to hear another side.
One parent summed it up well in a note to me:
“Our school leaders are working tirelessly for the well-being and academic success of our students. They deserve support, not suspicion. As a lifelong resident, an alumna, and a proud parent to a current VCS student,
I urge my fellow parents to pay attention to this behavior. I believe our community deserves better.”
These words reflect what I hear again and again. Volusia County Schools is not perfect — no district is — but we are making real progress and earning recognition for it. We don’t have to be combative to achieve results.
Asking questions, seeking new solutions, and challenging the status quo are healthy. But it’s also important to acknowledge success.
Under Superintendent Dr. Carmen Balgobin’s leadership, who has been recognized nationally as one of only five finalists for National Superintendent of the Year, we’ve made tremendous strides. For decades, Volusia struggled with a revolving door of superintendents, leading to instability and declining performance. With Dr. Balgobin — asked to return by the previous board — we are finally on steady ground. Our exceptional teaching staff, strong parental support and focused district leadership has increased our student proficiency and overall school grades have risen. For the first time in 16 years, Volusia County
Schools earned an A-rating, with many schools reaching their highest performance in history and not a single school receiving a D or F. When you see a teacher, make sure to congratulate them as these achievements can be directly attributed to their greatness.
Our results are based on state standards, not locally manipulated data and the numbers tell the story: Eighth grade math proficiency rose from 40% in 2024 to 56% in 2025, geometry proficiency jumped from 47% to 62%, and both ELA and math scores increased significantly across multiple grades. Volusia is now leading among its Central Florida peers.
Some have raised concerns about “transparency.” It’s an easy word to use when trying to sow distrust, but here are the facts: Volusia County Schools publishes its budget, holds public workshops, and consistently passes state audits. Questions about NDAs have been used as a scare tactic, but in reality, NDAs are common when protecting sensitive information such as retirement contributions or insurance records. No teacher was ever asked to sign one, and nothing prevents the public from
accessing records as required by law.
Headline-driven accusations may stir fear, but they don’t serve families. Some critics openly admit they don’t understand the school board budget yet insist something sinister is happening. A lack of personal understanding does not make the district dishonest. If there are questions, the solution is to ask, learn, and engage — not to spread misinformation.
Here are the hard facts:
Student achievement is climbing across all grade levels.
Fiscal responsibility is strong, with clean audits and clear reporting.
Career and technical education programs are expanding, preparing students for workforce success.
Advanced academic opportunities are growing, giving more students a chance to excel.
Community partnerships are stronger than ever, connecting schools and families. Families across Volusia County can be proud of this progress, even as we continue to aim higher.
What I would like to see is the business side of the house held more account-
Volusia County Schools is not perfect — no district is — but we are making real progress and earning recognition for it. We don’t have to be combative to achieve results.
able-where can we find ways to be more conscience with taxpayer dollars? How can we become more efficient and where can we improve operations without sacrificing academics? Perhaps a business report card to show where we are strong and where we need improvement would be beneficial. We are a budget of over $1 billion dollars; we must be accountable for our efficiency.
Any constituent who wants to understand how our schools are performing, how our budget is managed, or what programs are available is welcome to reach out to me directly. My door is always open. What our children need most right now is unity, not division. Those who want to see our schools thrive should carefully consider the motives of people who choose negativity over collaboration. When disruption replaces dialogue and politics outweigh the pursuit of student success, our children lose.
Parents, taxpayers, and community members deserve accurate information — not sensational headlines, political spin, or false rumors.
Volusia County Schools belong to all of us. Let’s continue to support our students, celebrate progress, and ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.
Moving all of Flagler Forward — a new chapter for FESPA
We believe that when we support those who support our children, everyone wins.
In every thriving school district, there’s a group of unsung heroes working tirelessly behind the scenes — driving our students safely to school, preparing hot meals, keeping campuses clean and
secure, supporting teachers in classrooms, answering phones, managing school operations, repairing buses and so much more. These are the support professionals of Flagler Schools, and they are the heartbeat of our community.
They are paraprofessionals, clerical staff, food service workers, custodians, security personnel, aides, mechanics and bus drivers. And they are proudly represented by the Flagler Educational Support Professionals Association (FESPA).
As Flagler Schools moves “Flagler Forward,” it’s essential that everyone moves forward together. No one should be left behind — especially not the people who keep our
We’re
schools running every single day with care, skill and dedication.
We’ll be the first to admit: FESPA hasn’t always had the loudest voice. But that changes now.
With new leadership and a renewed sense of purpose, we’re turning the page. We’re focused on rebuilding trust, strengthening unity and raising the visibility of our members. We’re not here to chase headlines — we’re here to build relationships, advocate for fairness and serve our schools with pride.
We are living our values by strengthening our communications to members, providing more consistent updates on the issues that matter to them and where we stand on
critical local work. We are pushing for more than just negotiated raises and steps — we need annual cost-ofliving adjustments (COLA) built in so that employees don’t fall behind year after year. And we are committed to making sure that promises from administration — whether on training, staffing, or pay — translate into real results for our members.
Membership in FESPA isn’t just about job protection. It’s about opportunity. Through our partnerships with the Florida Education Association (FEA) and NEA Member Benefits, our members have access to valuable tools like student loan forgiveness help, career development, legal support and member-
only discounts that help stretch every dollar. These are real resources for real people — people who give their all to Flagler’s students. We believe that when we support those who support our children, everyone wins. Because school success isn’t just about test scores or curriculum — it’s about community. To truly move Flagler Forward, we must do it together — with dignity, accountability and equity for every employee.
FESPA is ready. We’re listening. And we’re all in — for our members, our district and our community.
Lisa Torres is the new president of the Flagler Educational Professional Support Association union.
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The following headlines and lightly edited comments were posted on the Observer’s Facebook pages.
Flagler Habitat for Humanity celebrates Elizabeth Monroe’s new home Sharon Holloway I love this organization for so many reasons. This is beautiful to see. God bless you and your family!
Ormond Beach mayor: No discussion on eliminating youth sports Amber Bobak Having nice things does cost money. Do we want no [tax] increase? What type of community do we want to be? My answer as a resident, my house is divided. I don’t think the tax increase will hurt us too much, and as a mother, I think community centers are important and I don’t mind contributing. My husband and children however, don’t feel like our family should be responsible for up-keeping facilities we don’t use regularly. There’s gotta be a compromise somewhere, and I really wish the residence would start having discussions with open minds trying to find solutions, instead of just arguing against each other and demanding the other one listen to their side.
YOUR NEIGHBORS
Q+A DAVE FREEMAN, APPALACHIAN TRAIL THRU-HIKER
2,000 Miler
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Since 1936, only about 750 people over the age of 60 have completed the nearly 2,200-mile thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. They are known as “2,000 milers.” Dave Freeman, Flagler Schools’ chief of operations, is one of the most recent. Freeman, who turned 65 during the hike, began his trek on March 18 at the Appalachian Trail Approach in Amicalola Falls State Park in Georgia and finished five months later on Aug. 22 with a climb to the summit of Mount Katahdin in Maine.
He completed the hike in 158 days carrying ultralight equipment and minimal supplies. Sixteen of those days, were “zero days,” when he took the day off in a nearby town to resupply, take a shower and sleep in a bed. He lost 25 pounds during his hike, which was sponsored by Warrior Expeditions, an organization that supports veterans.
Freeman said he had a lot of fun meeting people on the trail, including a couple of high school classmates. He was happy to complete an adventure that was long on his bucket list, but he doesn’t plan to be doing anymore trail thru-hikes in the near future. He thanked Superintendent LaShakia Moore and the Flagler County School Board for giving him the opportunity to take five months of leave to complete his quest.
He spoke to the Observer on Tuesday, Sept. 2, his first official day back at work.
WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM THE EXPERIENCE?
I learned that there are a lot of people out there who want you to succeed.
Through the organization I hiked with, the Warrior Expeditions, they had supporters that about every 70 miles or so who we could call and say, “Hey, I’m passing through your area. I’d like to be able to do a home stay and a resupply.” And people that I have never met had signed up to help the veterans.
They would come and pick you up off the trail, take you back to your house. You’d get a shower, you’d sleep in a nice bed, do some laundry. They’d take you to do a resupply. So, there were trail angels like that that really supported us. And then just the for the regular hikers, the supporters that were out there, people that had benefited from trail angels in previous years would come out to pay back what somebody did for them.
They would set up “trail magic,” is what they call it. They would be at a road junction.
They would have cold drinks, maybe a cold beer. We had some that had chips and food and others that would go all out.
WHAT WAS YOUR DIET LIKE ON THE TRAIL?
I was burning up about 4,000 calories a day. Towards the end I was hiking about 20 to 25 miles a day, so you can imagine you’re burning a lot of calories. I started out eating honey buns and donuts for breakfast, because I was trying to get my calorie intake up. But that got tiring pretty quick. And so I switched to oatmeal and a sleeve of donuts, whatever. For lunch, I was eating a lot of tortillas, chicken salad and tuna salad. For a snack, I ate a lot of protein bars. I always carried a bag of Cheetos with me, because I would eat Cheetos for lunch and dinner. And I think I probably ate more Cheetos in five months than I’ve eaten my entire life. For dinner, I had the freeze dried meals, or noodles and throw some protein in it. Sometimes I would hitchhike to the town to get something to eat, and then hitchhike back to the trail to keep going. I did that a couple times with buddies and friends.
HOW OFTEN WERE YOU WALKING WITH OTHER HIKERS?
I started with the Warrior Expeditions. There were two groups of 10, and we started on two different dates. The first four days,
ter who started kindergarten this month. She worked weekends and nights to get her Flagler Habitat for Humanity home built.
we had to hike together. And we had mentors who did the hike last year, that hiked with us those first four days.
But after the four days, we were all on our own, because everybody hikes at different speeds. But our group kind of stayed together for probably three weeks. We weren’t all hiking the same speed, but we’d all end up at the same place that night. You tried to end up at a shelter or lean-to, because that usually had water that you could filter. You’d filter your water from a stream or a lake. Most of the time you’re really hiking by yourself.
dedication special. Lowe’s Home Improvement provided a gift for the Monroe family.
Flagler Habitat for Humanity celebrates Elizabeth Monroe’s new home
Elizabeth Monroe is a hardworking mother with a daugh-
Flagler Habitat celebrated on Aug. 25 with the dedication of Monroe’s new home in the R Section of Palm Coast. The house is Flagler Habitat’s 134th new build. On a Facebook post, Flagler Habitat thanked its partners in helping make the home
Memory Makers Quilt Guild created a homemade quilt to wrap the Monroe family in love and warmth.
The St. Johns Water Management District helped make the home water saving and sustainable.
Flagler Habitat for Humanity Construction Manager John Knox presented Monroe with the golden hammer. At the end of the dedication ceremony, Monroe cut the ribbon on the front door, and she and her guests entered her new home.
“We are overjoyed to celebrate the Monroe family as they step into their beautiful new home,” Flagler Habitat’s Facebook post said. “May this house be filled with endless love, laughter, and unforgettable memories for years to come. Welcome to the Habitat family — we’re so proud to share this milestone with you!”
Martin’s home named Garden Club’s Selection of the Month
The Garden Club at Palm Coast has recognized Aubrey Martin of Whittle Place as
WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE JOURNEY?
The Appalachian Trail is a very social trail. So, you would meet people along the way that you would either pass, or you’d meet them at a shelter site or campsite, and you’d get to know them, and you could talk to them and so that was part of the favorite part. There are a lot of people hiking. I think every year, between 4 and 5,000 people try to thru-hike. Of the thru-hikers, there’s about one in four, one in five, that will actually complete it.
One thing that happened, while I was out there, I found two high school classmates on the trail, just
by talking to them and saying, “Hey, where are you from? Well, I’m from Florida. Whereabouts in Florida? Well, I’m from Orlando. Where in Orlando? Oh, from this area? Did you go to high school there? Well, I graduated that year.” We didn’t recognize each other. There were two ladies whose names changed, and I had a beard, so of course, I didn’t look the same. But it was pretty wild.
My favorite part of the trail was in Virginia, which was the MauHar Trail, and it was just absolutely gorgeous. You’d hike along some cascading waterfalls that were just absolutely beautiful. I would go back and camp and hike in that area again in the future. But my favorite part were the people that you’d meet.
WHAT
WAS THE HARDEST PART OF THE HIKE?
I think the hardest part was the rocks and the roots that you encounter, and those got to be hard starting in Pennsylvania. Everybody liked to call Pennsylvania, Rocksylvania, because there’s just so many rocks. And then when you got up to the New England states, of course, New Hampshire is probably one of the hardest states. New Hampshire and Maine because of the the White Mountains, the Presidential Mountains. You’re rock climbing over some of these trails, and a lot of lot of it is above the tree line. It’s in the alpine region. The summit at Mount Katahdin in Maine is the terminus, and lot of it is just rock climbing to get up to the highest point. And I was fortunate that my son, David, was able to hike that last part with me, and he summited with me. That was a lot of fun. I had several people throughout my hike that linked up with me.
Ryan Andrews (the principal at Indian Trails Middle School) was one of them. He drove up to Virginia and hiked about five days with me, as well as buddies from Georgia that I had been hiking with. One of my old Army buddies hiked with me. My son-in-law hiked with me in the Smokies when it was snowing and sleeting in April. It was down to like 25 degrees. My wife visited me in Harpers Ferry, which is basically the halfway point.
And just hiking with fellow veterans that I started the trail with, that was always enjoyable. And meeting veterans on the trail. There are so many veterans that are hiking the Appalachian Trail. It was just a great experience overall.
the September 2025 Garden Selection of the Month.
Aubrey’s yard is more than just a collection of beautiful plants – it’s a living story of resilience, creativity, and new beginnings. In July 2022, a devastating fire destroyed much of Aubrey’s home and yard. Aubrey, with her mother’s help, rebuilt the house and began again from the ground up.
Starting with cuttings, seeds and even small sticks, Aubrey brought her vision to life. The front yard now flourishes with duet roses, gardenias, and black desert roses. The back yard is equally lush, with banana
John Knox, the Flagler Habitat for Humanity construction manager, presents Elizabeth Monroe with the golden hammer.
The Garden Club at Palm Coast recognized Aubrey Martin of Whittle Place as the September 2025 Garden Selection of the Month. Courtesy photo
Dave Freeman completes the thru-hike of the nearly 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail with a climb to the summit of Mount Katahdin in Maine. Courtesy photo
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LOCAL EVENTS
FRIDAY, SEPT. 5
VFW AUXILIARY 8696
TACO BAR
When: 5-7 p.m.
Where: VFW Post 8696, 47 Old Kings Road N., Palm Coast
Details: Join in for a $10 taco bar. All proceeds will benefit local veterans and their families.
FREE FAMILY ART NIGHT
When: 5:30-7 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Work with your family to make paper lizard sculptures. All art supplies provided. No art experience needed. All ages welcome.
Details: Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a showing of “Princess Diaries,” rated PG. Movies are weather-sensitive. Call 386-676-3216 for rainout information.
Details: See Civil Air Patrol’s new facility and airplane, and learn about CAP. There will be a ribbon-cutting at noon. For more information, contact Nicole Sharbono at Nicole. Sharbono@flwgcap.us.
THE FLAGLER PLAYHOUSE GRAND REOPENING
When: 11:30 a.m.
Where: 301 E. Moody Blvd., Bunnell
Details: Celebrate the reopening of the Flagler Playhouse, with its new 50-seat theater and event space.
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.
FROM GRIEF TO GRACE: A MOTHER’S MISSION TO END VIOLENCE
When: 11 a.m. to noon
Where: St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 5400 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast
Details: St. Thomas Episcopal Church is hosting Carmen Gray, mother of Curtis Gray, a local star athlete who died in 2019, just six weeks before his high school graduation. Gray is the founder of Long Live Curtis, Rise Above Violence Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to violence prevention. Free event. Open to the public.
ORMOND ART WALK
When: 3-7 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach MainStreet Arts District, 128 W. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Join Ocean Art Gallery, Frame of Mind, Art Spotlight, The Studio by Artist Angel Lowden, the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and more on the first Saturday of each month for art openings and art events.
Where: St. Brendan the Navigator Catholic Church social hall, 1000 Ocean Shore Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Council 13018. The OneBlood Big Red Bus will be onsite to accept blood donations, and all donors will receive a free pass to the breakfast to enjoy scrambled eggs, sausage, and all the pancakes you can eat, along with coffee and orange juice. OneBlood will also offer a free gift and a $20 eGift card in addition to a complimentary wellness checkup. Breakfast for non-donors costs $6; kids under 12 eat free.
‘EL TERCER ESPACIO — THE THIRD SPACE’ SOLO EXHIBIT OPENING RECEPTION
When: 1-4 p.m.
Where: Art League of Daytona Beach, 433 S. Palmetto Ave., Daytona Beach
Details: Celebrate the opening of this exhibit featuring the photography of Lisette Otero-Lewis, with guest artists Edmundo Lopez and Grace Senior Morandi.
MONDAY, SEPT. 8
PALM COAST FOUR CORNERS BUS TOUR
When: 9:30 a.m. to noon
Where: Intersection of City Place and Lake Avenue, Palm Coast
Details: The City of Palm Coast and the Flagler County Cultural Council are sponsoring this free bus tour. Registration required. Visit https:// www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/palm-coast-four-cornersbus-tour.
TUESDAY, SEPT. 9
FLORIDA 101
When: 9 a.m. to noon
Where: UF/IFAS Extension Flagler County, 150 Sawgrass Road, Bunnell
Details: Florida 101 is an introduction to Florida designed for both new and seasoned residents of Flagler County who are interested in learning about the ecology of Florida, how to best take advantage of our unique climate, flora, and fauna, and how to protect it. This is a four week course, with other sessions being held on Sept. 16, 23 and 30. Course costs $45 per person. Register at tinyurl.com/ Florida101-2025.
FILM SCREENING:
“FINDING NEMO”
When: 6-8 p.m.
Where: Madorsky Theater at the Daytona State College campus, Hosseini Center, 1200 W International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach
Details: See “Finding Nemo,” cartoon film about an overprotective clownfish desperate to find his missing son. Free and open to the public.
WEDNESDAY, SEPT 10
AARP MEETING
When: 10 a.m. to noon
Where: Ormond Beach
Unitarian Universalist Church, 56 N. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach
Details: This month’s guest speaker is Lori Tolland, Ormond Beach Zone 1 city commissioner and deputy mayor. The public is invited. An optional $5 light lunch will follow. For more information, call Jeff Boyle at 386 3419013.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd.
Details: Young artists ages 3-5 will explore an art element with activities designed to develop fine motor skills and encourage imagination. The program ends with immersive storytelling. Offered in partnership with the Early Learning Coalition of Flagler and Volusia. Free program. Registration required. Visit ormondartmuseum.org.
‘WEAVING A TAPESTRY’: GENEALOGY AND FAMILY HISTORY
When: 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Regional Library auditorium
Details: The Halifax Genealogy Society member Linda Vivian will speak on the distinction between genealogy and family history and how to get started,
ART OF HEALING
WORKSHOP
When: 2-3:30 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens
Details: Focus on self-expression, growth and relaxation during this workshop, which has a meditative component and is appropriate for all artistic skill levels. No experience necessary. All supplies are provided. Free admission. Registration required. Visit ormondartmuseum.org/ classes-programs.
SEPT. 11 CANDLELIGHT
MEMORIAL SERVICE
When: 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Where: Heroes Memorial Park, 2860 Palm Coat Parkway NW, Palm Coast
Details: Palm Coast Fire Department’s annual 9/11 Candlelight Vigil. Candles will be provided. The public is encouraged to attend.
FRIDAY, SEPT. 12
VETERANS
LUNCH AND LEARN
When: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Attendees will enjoy a special presentation and activity led by an instructor, followed by a complimentary Publix sub or salad lunch. All supplies provided. No previous art experience necessary. Open to veterans and current service members only. Free admission. Registration required. Visit ormondartmuseum.org/ classes-programs.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 13
DAYTONA CAT SHOW AND ADOPTION EVENT
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Ocean Center, 101 N. Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach
Details: The Cat Fanciers’ Association’s annual cat show will host over 100 cats competing for “Best Cat in Show,” a cat costume contest, feline agility and adoptable cats. Tickets cost $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and seniors and $45 for a family of four. Children 4 and under are free. Parking costs $15 a day. Visit daytonacatweek.com.
HOW-TO FESTIVAL
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Regional Library
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CASINO NIGHT
When: 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Where: Italian American Club, 45 Old Kings Road N., Palm Coast
Details: The Flagler Woman’s Club invites the community to attend its third annual Casino Night. Admission costs $85 and includes appetizers, raffle tickets and $5,000 in chips for casino games. There will be live music by Frank Braccia.
SUNDAY, SEPT. 7
PANCAKE BREAKFAST
When: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Details: Join Citizens for Ormond Beach as they host guest speaker Ormond Beach
Mayor Jason Leslie. The public is invited to ask questions concerning issues involving Ormond Beach and on-going actions to improve the city. For more information, email billdenny105@gmail.com.
Details: Attend this festival at the library and attend free sessions about designing buttons, family crafting, discovering microscopes, gardening with native plants, birding, genealogy and more. For more information, visit https://volusialibrary.libcal.com.
Details: Get ready to race or sink at the Flagler Beach Centennial Cardboard Regatta. Build your vessel from cardboard, duct tape and latex paint. There will be awards for fastest boat, best design, and the most dramatic sinking. Register at City Hall or online at cityofflaglerbeach.com.
YOUR SCHOOLS
Flagler Ed Foundation secures $136,000 in grants
Flagler County Education Foundation Executive Director Teresa Rizzo announced four community grants totaling $136,000 secured by the foundation for Flagler Schools initiatives.
“We’ve had a busy and successful grant season. These grants reflect not only strong partnerships but also full confidence this community has in the work that is happening here in our classrooms,” Rizzo said in the Ed Foundation’s Spotlight at the Aug. 26 Flagler County School Board meeting.
The largest grant totaled $76,000 for teachers’ needs across the county. The sum included $38,000 from the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations, which was matched by Beaver Toyota. The awards will include academic and behavior grants with presentations beginning on Sept. 15, Rizzo said.
Florida Power & Light donated $7,000 for science teacher professional development with
the district’s teachers spending a Saturday sharing their most successful Florida-standardsaligned lessons with each other. Each teacher receives a tote filled with science equipment to take back to their classrooms. United Way donated $42,000 to fund the countywide Career Fair on Nov. 14 and the two middle school career fairs in January. Geico presented the Ed Foundation with a check for $11,000 for the STUFF Bus program. In the past, the program has provided students with everything from size 16 shoes to adaptive PE equipment and headphones for classrooms, Rizzo said.
Volusia County Schools offers online driver education course
Volusia County Schools offers an online driver education class that satisfies a new state law requiring the completion of such a course to obtain a learner’s permit. The course, offered by VFlex through VCS’s Volusia Virtual Solutions, is available to all
students who are at least 14 ½ years old. The course is completely online, offering flexibility in when and where students can complete it. The course is also completely free to students and families, has open and rolling enrollment, and can be requested at any time.
The VFlex class includes four hours of education on drugs and alcohol, followed by the traffic law and substance abuse exam. Students will also have a chance to take the Class E Knowledge exam online for free. The new law, which took effect July 1, requires teens aged 15-17 to complete a driver education course before they can secure a learner’s permit. This replaces the previous re-
FOCUS ON FAITH
Epic Church’s food drive collects 4,600 pounds of food
Epic Church of Palm Coast is holding a food drive.
The church has been holding this food drive for over a decade in the months of February and August. The food is given to Grace Community Food Pantry, specifically for their backpack program. This
program helps children in our local schools be able to eat over the weekend, when the schools are not able to provide meals for them.
The director of the food drive, Ricky Coyne, shed some light onto why Epic Church does this. “We are called to love and serve everybody,” he said. Coyne said he feels that a lot of people feel estranged from the faith-based commu-
nity for various reasons, but if they could see the services provided by the local churches, then maybe that perception can be changed.
As of Aug. 25, the church has surpassed its goal of 4,600 pounds of food. Want to help? Non-perishable food items may be donated at the Epic Church office at 160 Cypress Pointe Parkway, Suite C107 from Monday to Thursday, or on
Sundays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Buddy Taylor Middle School, located at 4500 Belle Terre Parkway.
Grace Community of Ormond strives to bring churches together
quirement of only completing a traffic law and substance abuse course.
“VCS is proud to be able to offer a driver education course that satisfies the new state law and is readily available to students,” Superintendent Dr. Carmen Balgobin said. “This is just one of the many ways our Volusia Virtual Solutions offer-
Pastor Seth Tweeddale from Grace Community Church in Ormond Beach believes that “pastors have influence in the lives of their people.”
Stephenson, Wilcox and Associates
— ELIZABETH MOORE
What is your church or synagogue up to? Send story ideas to jarleene@observerlocalnews.com.
This belief has encouraged him to hold a Pastor Summit on Sept. 11, in which he hopes pastors from all sects will come together to learn how to be involved in showing the love of Christ and improve the community. Tweeddale would also like to “develop relationships with government…to have a pipeline in place” in order to support and pray for those in authority.
WHERE COTTON GROWS, SHADOWS
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
Flagler Schools administrators hold up grant checks secured by the Flagler County Education Foundation at the Aug. 26 School Board meeting. Flagler Schools photo
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BUSINESS
Beachside Angie’s to become latest addition to Fountain Square Village
Owner and chef Angie Lutts aims to celebrate her deli’s grand opening on Sept. 20.
JARLEENE ALMENAS
MANAGING EDITOR
A gourmet deli is opening soon in Ormond’s beachside.
Located inside Fountain Square Village at 142 E. Granada Blvd., Suite 203, Beachside
Angie’s will first offer fresh pastries, homemade pies and desserts. Once owner and chef Angie Lutts completes interior renovations, the deli will expand its offerings to sandwiches, soups and salads. Opening her own business has been a whirlwind for Lutts. She signed the lease for the second-floor space at
Fountain Square on Aug. 11, shortly after taking part in the plaza’s new Sunday farmer’s market, having heard that there were spaces available to lease.
“I don’t ever make fast decisions but my heart felt right — everything felt right,” Lutts said. “The space was beautiful. The sun was setting and I could see Beachside Angie’s here.”
She is aiming to celebrate the grand opening of her deli on Sept. 20.
Beachside Angie’s was first founded in 2021 as a pop-up.
This summer was a hard one for the business, Lutts said, and after she lost her tent during an event, she looked at her husband and close friends and decided it was time to go brick and mortar.
Lutts is a member of Biz
Bestie, a local women’s busi-
ness group, which led to her joining the weekly farmer’s market at Fountain Square.
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Lutts is a fourth generation chef. Growing up, her family owned a general store in the city as well as a deli. Lutts knew she had a passion — and talent — for the culinary arts by the time she was about 14. She’s been actively pursuing it ever since.
Part of what fuels her passion for cooking is being able to blend cuisines and flavors together. Lutts is a melting pot herself, having Puerto Rican, Ukrainian and Romanian heritage in her family.
“Just like a painter knows how to blend colors, she’s a chef that knows how to blend flavors,” said her husband, Dan Lutts. “All of her food is very savory and has a lot of depth, and it’s not just
separate ingredients, but they all marry together. She’s a creative mind and her food
reflects that creativity.”
Beachside Angie’s menu will be seasonal, but everything
will be made from scratch, Angie Lutts said. The deli will also be available for private reservation in the evenings, where customers will receive a personalized fixed menu.
Her motto for her business?
“Wow, that’s good.”
“The slogan is ‘Beachside Angie’s, now that’s the place,’” Dan Lutts said. “Because we want to become a place where you can sit and have a conversation with your friend, and eat some of the best food your palate’s ever tasted.”
“And not have to go to Paris or France,” Angie added. “You can just travel to your local area and international will be transported to you.”
Beachside Angie’s will be open 9 a.m to 2 p.m. daily.
Email business story ideas to jarleene@observerlocalnews. com.
AdventHealth Daytona Beach names new chief medical officer
AdventHealth Daytona Beach has named a new chief medical officer.
Dr. Carolyn Harraway-Smith stepped into the role on Aug. 25, bringing over 20 years of experience as a practicing physician and health care executive, according to a press release.
Board-certified in both obstetrics/gynecology and family medicine, Harraway-
been a practicing physician for many years, and she’s also led systemwide quality initiatives,” said Dr. David Sinclair, president and CEO of AdventHealth Daytona Beach. “She understands that better care isn’t just about protocols or equipment — it’s about people. And she knows how to bring teams together to make meaningful change.”
Smith most recently served as the system chief quality officer for Cone Health in North Carolina. She’s also held roles as a department chair, fellowship director, and hospital chief medical officer.
“Dr. Harraway-Smith has
Harraway-Smith joins the hospital as construction crews continue to work on a $220 million expansion that will add 104 new inpatient beds, four surgical suites, and more than 240,000 square feet of space, the press release states.
“I was drawn to AdventHealth because of its whole-person care philosophy. It’s how people show up here, every day,” Dr.
Harraway-Smith said. “I’m looking forward to being part of a team that’s serious about safety, equity, and helping patients feel not only better, but truly cared for.”
First Watch opens in Ormond Beach
First Watch’s new location in Ormond Beach opened on Monday, Sept. 1.
The Florida-based breakfast chain announced the opening of its new 4,800-square-foot restaurant, located at Granada Plaza at 185 E. Granada Blvd., on Friday, Aug. 29. The restaurant will seat over 160 people and features a patio and interior bar, according to a press release.
On the menu are dishes such as avocado toast, farmhouse hash, lemon ricotta pancakes, sandwiches, salads and fresh juices. The restaurant offers a revolving seasonal menu five times a year; Ormond Beach’s first seasonal menu will launch in winter.
“First Watch is widely beloved for its modern take on breakfast and brunch,” the press release
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L-R Hannah Leonard, PA-C, Dr. Billy Bethea, Beth McDonough, PA-C
A First Watch brunch spread with juice.
Dr. Carolyn Harraway-Smith. Courtesy photos
Dan Lutts and Chef Angie Lutts, the faces behind Beachside Angie’s. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
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REAL ESTATE
Rollins Dunes home tops sales list in Flagler
Ahouse at 7 Rollins Dunes Drive in the Rollins Dunes subdivision was the top real estate transaction for Aug. 16-22 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The house sold on Aug. 18, for $735,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a fireplace and 2,013 square feet. It sold in 2016 for $450,000.
ALEXIS MILLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Condos
A condo at 28 Lafayette Lane sold on Aug. 22, for $240,000. Built in 2001, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,469 square feet. It sold in 2005 for $205,000.
A condo at 7 Sherbury Court sold on Aug. 22, for $219,000. Built in 1986, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,338 square feet. It sold in 2025 for $90,000.
A condo at 17 Masters Court sold on Aug. 22, for $210,000. Built in 1980, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,006 square feet. It sold in 2017 for $119,000.
A condo at 45 Riverview Bend South, Unit 1926, sold on Aug. 21, for $490,000. Built in 2006, the condo is a 3/3 and has 2,007 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $590,000.
A condo at 1601 North Central Ave., Unit 504, sold on Aug. 21, for $345,000. Built in 1984, the condo is a 2/2
and has 1,215 square feet. It sold in 2016 for $292,000.
A condo at 1200 Cinnamon Beach Way, Unit 1142, sold on Aug. 18, for $515,000. Built in 2004, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,682 square feet. It sold in 2017 for $270,000.
Indian Trails
A house at 2 Birch Haven Place sold on Aug. 22, for $395,900. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 1,873 square feet.
Matanzas Woods
A house at 43 Langdon Drive sold on Aug. 20, for $395,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool and 2,014 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $285,000.
Palm Harbor A house at 8 Corning Court sold on Aug. 22, for $495,000. Built in 1981, the house is a 2/2 and has a boat dock, a pool and 1,620 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $330,000.
Ormond home on five acres sells for $900K
Ahouse at 540 Leeway Trail in was the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-the-Sea for the week of Aug. 9-15. The townhome sold on Aug. 15, for $900,000. Built in 2005, the house sits on five acres and is a 5/2.5 and has a fireplace, a pool, a spa and 3,000 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $955,000.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Condos
The condo at 2860 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 105, sold on Aug. 11, for $300,000. Built in 1990, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,056 square feet. It last sold in June 2025 for $195,000.
The condo at 2860 Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 208, sold on Aug. 15, for $230,000. Built in 1990, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,056 square feet. It last sold in 1990 for $65,000.
Breakaway Trails
The house at 9 Circle Creek Way sold on Aug. 11, for $640,000. Built in 2000, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 2,027 square feet. It last sold in 2005 for $315,000.
Broadwater 10 Broadwater Drive sold on Aug. 15, for $709,500. Built in 1992, the house is a 3/2.5 and has two fireplaces, a pool, an outdoor kitchen and 2,594 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $539,000.
Country Acres
The house at 255 Woodhaven Circle W. sold on Aug. 14, for $540,000. Built in 1994, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace, a pool, a spa and 2,469 square feet. It last sold
A house at 73 Foxhall Lane sold on Aug. 22, for $340,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,752 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $235,000.
A house at 75 Fortune Lane sold on Aug. 22, for $420,000. Built in 1989, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool, a fireplace and 2,409 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $272,000.
Pine Lakes A house at 6 Winchester Place sold on Aug. 22, for $319,000. Built in 1989, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,521 square feet. It sold in 2025 for $221,500.
A house at 7 White Oak Lane sold on Aug. 22, for $365,000. Built in 1992, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,518 square feet. It sold in 2017 for $165,000.
A house at 1 Waves Place sold on Aug.
in 2020 for $395,000.
Cupola at Oceanside
The townhome at 124 N.
Halifax Drive sold on Aug. 10, for $895,000. Built in 2024, the townhome is a 3/3.5 and has 2,473 square feet.
Halifax Plantation
The house at 3171 Connemara Drive sold on Aug. 11, for $419,000. Built in 2014, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,919 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $290,000.
The house at 3959 S. Chinook Lane sold on Aug. 11, for $640,000. Built in 1994, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,530 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $445,000.
The house at 2603 Kinsale Lane sold on Aug. 14, for $274,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,608 square feet.
Melrose
The house at 71 Fairview Ave. sold on Aug. 11, for $343,000. Built in 1951, the house is a 4/2 and has two fireplaces and 1,618 square feet. It last sold in 2015 for $142,000.
Not in subdivision
The house at 7 Tam O Shanter Lane sold on Aug. 11, for $100,000. Built in 1975, the house is a 2/1.5 and has a
in 2005, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,777 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $310,000.
A house at 21 Uniondale place sold on Aug. 22, for $358,582. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,265 square feet.
Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report. fireplace and 1,474 square feet. It last sold in 1975 for $27,000.
The house at 87 Ellsworth Ave. sold on Aug. 14, for $245,000. Built in 1955, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,597 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $160,000.
Ocean Village The house at 59 Cardinal Drive, Unit A, sold on Aug. 13, for $230,000. Built in 1947, the house is a 2/1 and has 808 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $136,500.
Rio Vista The house at 739 Buena Vista Ave., sold on Aug. 11, for $450,000. Built in 1954, the house is a 3/2.5 and has 2,052 square feet. It last sold in 2003 for $136,000.
Rockefeller Heights The house at 88 Valencia Drive sold on Aug. 12, for $345,000. Built in 1965, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,327 square feet. It last sold in 2020 for $280,000.
Twin River Estates The house at 6 Waterberry Circle sold on Aug. 15, for $260,000. Built in 1976, the house is a 4/2 and has a fireplace, a pool, boat dock and 2,400 square feet. It last sold in 2004 for $375,000.
Woodland The house at 16 Red Maple Circle sold on Aug. 13, for $195,000. Built in 1978, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,720 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $125,000.
Woodmere The house at 860 Lindenwood Circle N. sold on Aug. 11, for $338,000. Built in 1976, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,830 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $245,000. John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.
PALM COAST
ORMOND BEACH
SPORTS
BACK TO BASICS
Matanzas keeps it simple and explodes for 43 points in a win over University. Cole Walker passed for a school-record 314 yards, and Jordan Schendorf scored three touchdowns.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Jordan Schendorf scored three touchdowns, Cole Walker passed for a school record 314 yards and Jack Ferguson returned from a serious boating accident to make two big plays in Matanzas High School’s 43-24 bounce-back win at home against University High on Friday, Aug. 29. After falling to county rival Flagler Palm Coast 26-14 in the Potato Bowl the previous week, the Pirates (1-1) went back to basics, coach Matt Forrest said.
“I think we pressed too much going into the FPC game,” he said. “I think we tried to do too much instead of letting our players do what they each do best, so we went back to basic football. We know we’re talented. We wanted to right the ship and show what kind of football team we got.”
Walker, playing in his second game with the Pirates, broke Ethan Dattilo’s singlegame school passing record of 303 yards which was set on Nov. 20, 2020, in a 49-28 loss to Mainland.
Walker threw three touchdown passes — two to Schendorf, including a 65-yarder to open the scoring, and a fourth-quarter strike to Andrew Bass which put the Pirates up 40-24.
The senior quarterback completed 23 of 40 passes with no interceptions.
“I think I put a lot on Cole last week,” Forrest said. “I think I gave him too much and handcuffed his ability to go out and play football. (This week) he was doing things he’s good at with concepts he’s familiar with. It shows he can really play at a high level if he’s confident and free to just go out and play. He was a completely different player. He looked a lot more comfortable. I’m very proud of him.” Matanzas exploded on
offense with 505 total yards. In addition to Walker’s breakout passing game, the Pirates rushed for 191 yards. Wiley Conner ran for 107 yards and James Peterson added 75 yards on just five carries, including a 24-yard touchdown run.
Schendorf caught 7 passes for 146 yards and Bass caught 10 passes for 123 yards. Schendorf also scored on a 1-yard run and then added the twopoint conversion in the second quarter to give the Pirates a 20-14 lead, a lead they held the rest of the way.
“(Schendorf) played a really complete football game,” Forrest said. “In our offense, the ball finds its way around. I feel like we have four high caliber wide receivers in Jordan Schendorf, Ladarien Baker, Andrew Bass and Thomas Larywon. (This was) Jordan’s night. He made the best of his opportunities.”
So did Ferguson. In the July 1 accident in Mississippi, he suffered a deep gash on his leg requiring surgery. The junior linebacker wasn’t cleared to practice until the week of the kickoff classic.
In the third quarter of his second game back, Ferguson recovered a Rylee Roberts’ blocked punt for a touchdown. He added an interception and 15-yard return in the fourth quarter to set up Alex Procek’s 31-yard field goal.
“What a young man,” Forrest said of Ferguson. “He is truly the heartbeat of our defense. He embodies what our football team is all about.”
Jezrahiah McCoy added a fourth-quarter interception for the Pirates.
“I think I put a lot on Cole (Walker) last week. I think I gave him too much and handcuffed his ability to go out and play football. (This week) he was doing things he’s good at with concepts he’s familiar with. It shows he can really play at a high level.”
MATT FORREST, Matanzas football coach
Cole Walker. Photos by Brian McMillan
Jake Patton (27) pressures University quarterback Christian Maheu in the first half.
Matanzas cheerleader Naomi Kjolstad
Matanzas cheerleader Henli Roberts
Matanzas’ Jordan Schendorf scored three touchdowns.
Matanzs’ James Peterson (22) carries the ball.
Pirates linebacker Chase Johnson
Andrew Bass runs after a catch.
Mainland topples three-time defending state champ Cocoa
Sebastian Johnson threw 3 touchdown passes as the Bucs defeated the Tigers 19-14 and avenged a lopsided 2024 loss.
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
The No. 1 question for the Mainland Bucs entering their season-opener Friday, Aug. 29 — on the road against Cocoa High — was would they be able to compete with the three-time defending state champion. Cocoa thrashed the Bucs 51-0 last season.
A key question at halftime, when the Bucs led 19-0, was would they be able to handle a second-half surge from the Tigers. With Mainland’s 19-14 victory, the Bucs not only silenced doubters, but they made a statement, albeit an
early season one: Last season was an aberration.
Mainland reached the playoffs for the 31st consecutive season last year, but they finished with a 5-6 record. It was the first time they had finished under .500 in 14 seasons.
“It feels good,” Mainland coach Jerrime Bell said a day after the win. “They’re a tough opponent. They fought for four quarters as our guys did, and we came out on top. (Our players) were determined to show the state that this is a different team. We’re not same team as last year — 51-0 is not the Mainland way, and (we) came out and proved it.”
The Bucs are just two years removed from a state championship. While it may be too early to know if they are back to that level, in Cocoa they beat a team that has not only won three state titles in a row but has won seven state championships since 2008 and has advanced to the state
“(Our players) were determined to show the state that this is a different team. We’re not same team as last year — 51-0 is not the Mainland way, and (we) came out and proved it. ”
semifinals 18 years in a row.
The Bucs jumped out to a big first-half lead on the Tigers behind senior quarterback Sebastian Johnson’s three long touchdown passes to Chris Butler, Christian Cooper and Kadin Flores. An interception by Denzel Shropshire set up the second touchdown.
Bell said Mainland penalties helped give the Tigers short fields in the second half and they were able to capitalize with two touchdowns. But Bubba Westbrook had a key interception late in the game to help preserve Mainland’s lead.
“It was a complete game on both sides of the football,” Bell said of the Bucs’ performance. “(This is) a good group. We’re extremely talented at the wide receiver position as well as all around the field.”
While the Bucs were a week behind with a bye in Week 1, Bell said that turned out to be an advantage.
“We were able to get healthy,” he said. “We still have a starting receiver and an offensive lineman out, but it worked out. We’re as healthy as we probably could have been.”
The Bucs (1-0) will host Flagler Palm Coast (1-1) on Friday, Sept. 5, in their home opener at Daytona Stadium.
“They beat us last year (7-2 at FPC), so that’s another chance to get a bad taste out our mouth,” Bell said. “(FPC
have a really good football team, so it will be a good game.”
Inter-United U17 girls soccer team wins tournament
PUZZLED
coach) Patrick Turner will
Johnson looks for a receiver in Bethune-Cookman’s 7-on-7 tournament in June. File photo by Michele Meyers
JERRIME BELL, Mainland coach
The Inter-United Soccer Club of Palm Coast’s U17 girls team won the 33rd annual Jacksonville FC Labor Day Shootout, Aug. 29-31, with three consecutive 2-0 shutouts. The I-U team defeated Jacksonville FC with goals by Zoe Almberg and Hailey Sammons on Aug. 29. On Aug. 30, I-U defeated Florida Kraze Krush with goals by Rhyan Bennett and Kaylin Henthorn. And on Aug. 31, I-U beat Florida Premier FC with Carsyn O’Linn scoring both goals. The defensive players contributing to the three straight clean sheets were Belle Alford, Rebeka Cordero, Payton Daniels, Charlie Parsons, Julia McKenna, Anastasia Wilgis, Adelyn Allen, Marianna Dimillo, Emma Lightfoot, Colby Vitale, Chloe Ascone and goalkeeper Ella Forbes. Other members of the team included Alexandria Villalobos, Victoria Cardenas, Julia McKenna, Nicolle Raciborski, Alexa Sanchez and Emma Lightfoot with Casey O’Linn coaching.
Late turnovers mar outstanding game by Nolan Caliendo in FPC loss
Caliendo caught 13 passes for 172 yards and three touchdowns from quarterback Caden Burchfield.
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
When Flagler Palm Coast safety Kenneth Robinson intercepted an overthrown pass with 6 minutes left in the game, the Bulldogs appeared to be back in business.
FPC trailed Lake Howell 21-19, but quarterback Caden Burchfield and receiver Nolan Caliendo seemed to be able to connect whenever they needed a big play. And they needed one now.
But in an absurd ending to an exciting back-and-forth battle, Robinson’s pick was just the first of four consecutive turnovers by the two teams. Unfortunately for the Bulldogs, they committed the final turnover in this game of hot potato, and the Silver Hawks went on to score again and hand FPC a 28-19 loss on Friday, Aug. 29, at Sal Campanella Stadium.
“Those two turnovers are what killed us,” FPC coach Patrick Turner said. “We had an opportunity, we’re driving, and we coughed it up. You don’t win by turning the ball over.”
Unless the other team turns the ball over too. After Robinson’s interception, Lake Howell’s Tyler Thermezi intercepted a Burchfield pass near midfield. Two plays later, FPC
“Burchfield, he’s a great QB. I love him to death. Having that connection with him is big.” NOLAN CALIENDO
got the ball back again with Tywann Andrews recovering a Lake Howell fumble. But with 3:51 left, Burchfield fumbled and the Silver Hawks marched 52 yards with running back Malek Wilkerson putting the game out of reach with a 5-yard touchdown run.
FPC’s loss overshadowed an outstanding game by Caliendo who caught 13 passes for 172 yards and all three FPC touchdowns.
In two games this season, Caliendo has 17 catches for 236 yards and four touchdowns. Burchfield delivered 15 of those passes.
“Burchfield, he’s a great QB,” Caliendo said. “I love him to death. Having that
connection with him is big.”
La’Darius Simmons and Burchfield split time at quarterback in the season opener against Matanzas, but Simmons missed the Lake Howell game with an ankle injury. The Bulldogs were without several players in the game, but their offense was able to move up and down the field until late when Lake Howell took a player out of the box and added a second high safety.
“We were doing really good,” Caliendo said. “We had great passes, great drives. We just got to fix the small things, the holding calls, penalties; just no fumbles or picks.”
Burchfield completed 21 of
30 passes for 207 yards with two interceptions and three TDs of 7, 36 and 9 yards to Caliendo. The Bulldogs also ran for more than 100 yards with Darwin Harris rushing for 66 yards and Burchfield adding 42 yards with his legs.
“Offensively speaking, everything that we had in the game plan was working extremely well. We just had some unfortunate things happen,” Turner said.
Last year, FPC crushed Lake
Howell 56-15 in the seasonopener. This year, a muchimproved Silver Hawks team was scheduled in between two of the Bulldogs’ biggest rivals. FPC was coming off an emotional 26-14 win against Matanzas. They visit Mainland on Friday, Sept. 5.
“Last week, our kids were locked in,” Turner said. “They want to beat the rivals, and then this team shows up. They smoked them last year. I tried to tell them that this was not the same team. But if we capitalize on those two possessions, it’s a different ball game.”
Matanzas wins volleyball opener in Menendez’s return as head coach
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Matanzas swept Mainland 3-0 on Wednesday, Aug. 27, in Julie Menendez’s return as the Pirates’ head volleyball coach.
While Mainland was playing its fourth match of the season, this was the Pirates’ season-opener on their newly surfaced gym floor.
The Pirates defeated the Bucs, 25-12, 25-7, 25-13. Menendez is in her 12th year as a volleyball coach with Matanzas, but this is her first year as Pirates’ head coach since 2021. She takes over for Dawn Moses, who led the team the past three seasons.
While Matanzas has a bunch of new players this season, Menendez’s relationship with some goes way back.
“She was my third-grade PE teacher at Belle Terre Elementary School, and she was my first-ever club coach,” junior setter Haley Stewart
“We have a very well-rounded hitting team. But can Sanigh hit it hard? Oh, yeah.”
JULIE MENENDEZ
said. “She shaped me into the athlete I am today.” Stewart played on the Pirates’ JV team last year where Menendez was her
coach.
“We moved up together,” Stewart said. “I’m excited for this season with her.”
The Pirates have only two seniors in Olivia Chochev and Nevaeh Walker, but they have a lot of experienced volleyball players, several — including junior outside hitter Sanigh Arneaud — who have played on the Winnerz Circle travel
team. Arneaud had 201 kills and 154 digs for First Baptist Christian Academy last year.
Arneaud is one of several Matanzas hitters and middle blockers who can attack the net, Menendez said.
“We have a very wellrounded hitting team,” she said. “But can Sanigh hit it hard? Oh, yeah.
“We have a very unselfish team,” Menedez added. “They’re very skilled and very smart, and everyone plays, which is nice.”
The Bucs (0-5) have a new coach in Stephen Young, and, like Matanzas, a lot of new faces.
“This is a new team. They graduated seven of 11 last year,” Young said. “They’re fighting very hard. We have some things to work on, but it’s still early in the season.”
Mainland lost 3-1 to Father Lopez on Aug. 28, one night after playing at Matanzas. The Bucs battled to win the second set in extra points at 28-26.
Father Lopez improved to 2-2 with the four-set victory. Senior Jeslene Gonzalez led the Bucs with 5 kills and 10 digs against the Green Wave.
The Pirates defeated Mainland in three sets.
Mainland’s Krista Greco passes.
The Pirates celebrate their three-set sweep of the Bucs. Photos by Brent Woronoff
Matanzas junior Sanigh Arneaud serves.
Mainland sophomore Kaliyah Legette had two serving aces against Matanzas.
Matanzas sophomore setter Analise Smith serves. Matanzas junior Sanigh Arneaud (4) hits between Mainland’s Jeslene Gonzalez (18) and Aubree Morgan.
Sophomore libero Aliya LugoNavas serves for the Pirates.
FPC color guard members before the game.
FPC’s Caden Burchfield (11) runs a quarterback keeper.
FPC color guard member Trinity Williams performs at halftime.
FPC drum major Tatev Hartenyan.
FPC running back Darwin Harris (25) tries to break out of the grasp of a Lake Howell defender.
Photos by Brent Woronoff
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*It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in the Palm Coast Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with towncodes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property. Notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.
FIRST INSERTION
DEVISEES, SURVIVING SPOUSE, GRANTEES,; SERVICE EXPERTS, LLC; UNKNOWN TENANT #1 N/K/A DWAYNE MURRAY; UNKNOWN TENANT #2 N/K/A NATASHA DORRELL F/K/A NATASHA MURRAY; GEORGE N.B. BROWN; ANDREA WILLIAMS F/K/A ANDREA MURRAY; ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER AND AGAINST THE HEREIN NAMED INDIVIDUAL DEFENDANT(S) WHO ARE NOT KNOWN TO BE DEAD OR ALIVE, WHETHER SAID UNKNOWN PARTIES MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, OR OTHER CLAIMANTS Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that sale will be made pursuant to an Order or Final Judgment. Final Judgment was awarded on July 18, 2025 in Civil Case No. 2023 CA 000724, of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH Judicial Circuit in and for Flagler County, Florida, wherein, HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE NOMURA HOME EQUITY LOAN, INC. ASSET- BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-FM1 is the Plaintiff, and GEORGE N. B. BROWN AS TRUSTEE OF THE REVOCABLE; UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, SURVIVING SPOUSE, GRANTEES,; SERVICE EXPERTS, LLC; UNKNOWN TENANT #1 N/K/A DWAYNE MURRAY; UNKNOWN TENANT #2 N/K/A NATASHA DORRELL F/K/A NATASHA MURRAY; GEORGE N.B. BROWN; ANDREA WILLIAMS F/K/A ANDREA MURRAY; ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER AND AGAINST THE HEREIN NAMED INDIVIDUAL DEFENDANT(S) WHO ARE NOT KNOWN TO BE
DEAD OR ALIVE, WHETHER SAID UNKNOWN PARTIES MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, OR OTHER CLAIMANTS are Defendants. The Clerk of the Court, Tom Bexley will sell to the highest bidder for cash at https:// flagler.realforeclose.com/ on November 14, 2025 at 11:00:00 AM EST the following described real property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOTS 174 AND 175, OF BLOCK 1, OF PALM COAST, MAP OF BELLE TERRE, SECTION 11, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 6, PAGES 59 THROUGH 66, PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA, AS AMENDED BY INSTRUMENT RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 35, PAGE 528, PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA.
Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim before the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed. IMPORTANT AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES
ACT: If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, (386) 257-6096. Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711. Dated this 25th day of August, 2025. ALDRIDGE PITE, LLP
Attorney for Plaintiff 401 W. Linton Blvd., Suite 202-B Delray Beach, FL 33444 Telephone: 561-392-6391 Facsimile: 561-392-6965 By: Zachary Ulllman Digitally signed by Zachary Ullman DN: CN=Zachary Ullman, E=zullman@aldridgepite.com Reason: I am the author of this document
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR Flagler COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2025 CP 000415 Division 48 IN RE: ESTATE OF Gary S. Cartwright Deceased.
The administration of the estate of Gary S. Cartwright, deceased, whose date of death was January 6th, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 E Moody Blvd, Bldg 1, Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is September 4, 2025. Kara E. Cartwright P.O. Address: 450 Massachusetts Ave NW, Apt. 921, Washington, DC Personal Representative
Attorneys for Personal Representative Email Addresses: Tom@SessaDorsey.com
Florida Bar No. 1036046 Sessa & Dorsey LLC 11350 McCormick Road EP 3, Suite 601 Hunt Valley, MD 21031 Telephone: (443) 589-5600 September 4, 11, 2025 25-00214G
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION Case No. 2025 CA 000219 Fifth Third Bank, National Association, Plaintiff, vs. Rich Smith a/k/a Richard Smith a/k/a Richard J. Smith a/k/a Richard James Smith, Jr., et al., Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to the Final Judgment and/or Order Rescheduling Foreclosure Sale, entered in Case No. 2025 CA 000219 of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH Judicial Circuit, in and for Flagler County, Florida, wherein Fifth Third Bank, National Association is the Plaintiff and Rich Smith a/k/a Richard Smith a/k/a Richard J. Smith a/k/a Richard James Smith, Jr.; Lisa P. Smith; Hancock Whitney Bank f/k/a Whitney Bank f/k/a Hancock Bank as successor in interest to Peoples First Community Bank are the Defendants, that Tom Bexley, Flagler County Clerk of Court will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash at, www. flagler.realforeclose.com, beginning at 11:00 AM on the 31st day of October, 2025, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 12, MAP OF LAMBERT AVENUE, UNIT II, AS PALM COAST, A SUBDIVISION ACCORDING TO THE PLAT OR MAP THEREOF DESCRIBED IN PLAT BOOK 22, PAGE 56, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA.
TAX ID: 07-11-31-7096-000000120
Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim before the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed.
If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Court Administration , 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114; (386) 257-6096 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired call 711.
Dated this 29th day of August, 2025. BROCK & SCOTT, PLLC
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 September 4, 2025.
Personal Representative: Amy L. Aguiar c/o Legacy Law Associates, P.L. 313 S. Palmetto Ave. Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert M. Holland
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
of the Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated this 27th day of August, 2025 Blair Payson Sep. 4 25-00322F FIRST INSERTION Notice Under Fictitious Name Law According to Florida Statute Number 865.09
FIRST INSERTION Notice Under Fictitious Name Law According to Florida Statute Number 865.09 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the Fictitious Name of Reverie Co, located at 25 WEIDNER PL, in the City of Palm Coast, Flagler County, FL 32164 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated this 27th day of August, 2025 Blair Payson Sep. 4 25-00321F
Attorney for Plaintiff 4919 Memorial Hwy, Suite 135 Tampa, FL 33634
Phone: (954) 618-6955
Fax: (954) 618-6954
FLCourtDocs@brockandscott.com
By /s/Justin
Attorney Florida Bar Number: 938998 Legacy Law Associates, P.L. 313 S. Palmetto Ave. Daytona Beach, FL 32114
