Fisheries in The Hammock has been serving locally-sourced seafood for almost a decade. Courtesy photo
NEWS BRIEFS
Previously deported man arrested for burglary
A previously deported Colombian national was arrested following an 11-month investigation into a residential burglary on Pritchard Lane, in Palm Coast.
William Vargas-Carmona, 33, of Jacksonville, was originally deported in September 2024 after he was found to be in the United States illegally, according to a FCSO press release. He since re-entered the country without permission and is now facing a two felony charges for burglary and grand theft.
In January, the FCSO received a call that a home on Pritchard Lane had been ransacked. During the investigation, detectives found that the suspect had covered a home security camera with a jacket, turned off the circuit breaker and internet and stole
COPS CORNER
NOV. 5
RENTAL THEFT
2:53 p.m. — First block of Coquina Ridge Way, Ormond Beach Stolen vehicle. An Ormond Beach couple called police after a vehicle they had rented to a third-party company failed to be returned. According to a police incident report, the couple had rented the car for a threeday period. Shortly after the rental began, they received a message on the company’s app that the renter, a Day-
between $2,500 and $3,000, the press release said. While collecting evidence, detectives found a blood smear on a pizza box in the kitchen, the press release said. A sample was collected and sent to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for analysis.
The results did not come in until Aug. 18, but the FDLE found a match to the DNA in a previous offender, William Vargas-Carmona, the press release said.
On Oct. 14, detectives obtained a warrant for VargasCarmona’s arrest and on Nov. 21, U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement notified the FCSO Fugitive Unit that they had located VargasCarmona in Jacksonville. ICE agents arrested him.
18-month investigation into drive-by shooting leads to arrest
After an 18-month investigation, a man has been arrested in connection to the June 2024 drive-by shooting in Hymon Circle.
tona Beach man, had been arrested.
The person messaging the couple told them the renter was his uncle and that he had the car but wasn’t sure where the keys were or where he should drop it off to return it. In later messages, the person said he had retrieved the keys from his uncle’s belongings. The couple gave their residential address and instructed the vehicle be dropped off or they would report it as stolen. However, the vehicle’s GPS ceased to operate just as they were supposed to return it. They pressed charges.
NOV. 19
MILLION-DOLLAR MASKS
4:03 p.m. — 1300 block of
Traycan T. Verdell, 27, was taken into custody over the Thanksgiving holidays by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, according to a Bunnell Police Department press release. Verdell has been charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and shooting or throwing a deadly missile into an occupied building, with bond set at $10,000.
The June 19, 2024 shooting took place at around 12:22 a.m. BPD officers responded to a report of multiple gunshots, but only found shell casings left in the road by the time they arrived. Video evidence later showed a car arriving, a suspect walking around the victim’s residence, and then firing numerous rounds at the home as the car drove away, the press release said.
The suspect vehicle was quickly found by the Daytona Beach Police Department with a handgun and ammunition inside.
Verdell is believed to have been driving the suspect vehicle, which had three other occupants, and had a gun in his possession at the time
West Granada, Ormond Beach
Trespassing. A 59-year-old man from Dunnellon was trespassed from a local bank after he demanded to receive $50 million from African masks he had allegedly sold.
Police report that the man entered the bank and demanded his money, despite the bank manager telling him there were no transactions on file of such a sum. The man became angry and refused to leave when asked. When police arrived, the man continued to refuse to leave the premises. He was arrested and taken to jail.
NOV. 26 TAG — HE’S IT 11:04 p.m. – 100 block of
of the shooting, the press release said.
During the extensive investigation, BPD officers executed search warrant at a residence in Daytona Beach, interviewed multiple people, and executed multiple search warrants for digital evidence and subpoenas. All those involved in the investigation have been identified and interviewed, the press release said. During his interview with detectives, Verdell admitted to being in the suspect car earlier in the day but said he was home during the shooting. The BPD investigation of Verdell’s Daytona Beach home and additional witness interviews contradicted his statement.
He has been booked into the Volusia jail.
Daytona officer arrested after allegedly hitting girlfriend in face
A Daytona Beach Police Officer was arrested by the Daytona Beach Police Department on domestic battery charges over the weekend.
Cypress Point Parkway, Palm Coast Petit theft, possession. A St. Augustine man was arrested in Palm Coast for driving a truck with a stolen plate.
A Sheriff’s Office deputy was alerted to a possible stolen tag on a red Chrysler van and found the vehicle at a nearby gas station, according to an arrest report. The deputy immediately detained the man who owned the van. Before the deputy could ask the suspect any questions, the man said, “I knew that tag was bad.” The suspect told the deputy he had just bought the tag and van from two separate friends, and was living out of the van.
The man admitted to hav-
Jazmen Renee Harrell, a DBPD officer since August 2022, punched her girlfriend in the face as the girlfriend was trying to leave Harrell’s apartment, according to Harrell’s arrest report. The victim told police officers that Harrell hit her after she threatened to call Harrell’s coworkers at the DBPD.
Harrell has been placed on administrative leave.
“This type of behavior is not representative of the values of the Daytona Beach Police Department, and the officer will be held accountable in accordance with departmental policy and the law,” the press release said.
Neighbors who heard the commotion sheltered the victim until police came. Though the victim declined to press chares, Harrell was arrested.
State debates creating online exchange for health insurance
Amid widespread national debate about making changes in the health-care system, a Florida House panel on Dec.
ing cannabis and meth in the van. Deputies found 0.6 grams of meth, 3 grams of marijuana and one pill of a controlled substance.
The man is facing several charges. He was taken to the county jail.
NOV. 28
DUMPSTER DIVING
DISASTER
1:46 a.m. – 600 block of S.R. 100, Flagler County
False name given to law enforcement. A woman with an active warrant was caught dumpster diving on Thanksgiving behind a dollar store.
2 backed a proposal that would create a state program offering an online exchange for buying individual health insurance. The program would be tied to what are known as “individual coverage health reimbursement arrangements,” which involve workers making coverage choices and getting reimbursed by their employers. The arrangements have tax benefits.
The House Health Care Facilities & Systems Subcommittee on Tuesday voted 12-3 to approve a bill (HB 141) that would create the Florida Employee Health Choices Program, which would include the exchange.
Bill sponsor Taylor Yarkosky, R-Montverde, said the proposal seeks to address high insurance costs and limited choices for businesses and employees. He described it as a “free market bill” and said the state could get out ahead as “massive health care changes are absolutely coming.”
But some lawmakers questioned why a state program is needed when private exchanges exist for such coverage.
A police arrived was called out to the retail location just before 2 a.m. and found an empty SUV parked in front of a fenced-in dumpster area. Two women were found hiding behind the dumpster fence and told the deputy they were dumpster diving. Two additional Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived on scene and searched the area for suspicious items and instead found a third woman hiding in the dumpster area, according to an arrest report. A search for the first two women turned up no results but the third woman initially gave the officers a false name. The woman turned out to have an active warrant for her arrest out of Putnam County and was violating her probation by being out after curfew. She was placed under arrest and taken to the county jail.
Happy holidays ahead
City of Palm Coast and Flagler County Rotary Club celebrate 20 years of Fantasy Lights
Twenty years ago, Palm Coast’s annual Fantasy Lights Festival started with a handful of light displays and the memory of a little girl.
I felt a little tap on my shoulder saying, ‘Dad, it’s time,’” said Bill Butler cochair of the Fantasy Lights Festival. “I just can’t believe it’s grown to this.”
Now the festival has 57 displays, all sponsored by organizations and businesses in Flagler County. The Festival is organized by the Rotary Club of Flagler County and acts as a fundraiser. Over the years, the festival has raised $375,000 for local nonprofits.
The idea for a holiday light show stemmed from the dream of Butler’s daughter Tiffany, who died in 2002 of a heart condition. Butler
said that in 1997 when his family saw a Christmas light display in Indiana, his daughter Tiffany wanted to have a similar light show in Palm Coast.
Tiffany did not live to see the fruition of her dream, but, Butler was able to bring it to life in 2006. The Festival opened with Palm Coast’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Nov. 29 and will run through Dec. 30, from 6:30-9 p.m.
A special 20th anniversary celebration on Saturday, Dec. 20 at 6:30 p.m., honoring the legacy of the Festival and the Rotary Club of Flagler County will also host the Holiday Market the same day.
Michelle Bartlome, president of the Rotary Club of Flagler County, said during the opening ceremony
that the Fantasy Lights Festival has spread “sparkle, laughter and community spirit” for the last 20 years.
Palm Coast Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri led the Tree Lighting Ceremony. This tree lighting has become one of the most meaningful traditions in our city,” Pontieri said. “I’m so
grateful to be here with all of you.”
Typically, the Central Park Christmas tree is lit as Santa Claus and city official flip a giant switch, a physical tribute to the beginning of the holiday season. This year, Pontieri invited the crowd of children to flip the switch with Santa Claus instead.
Pontieri said she hopes the Tree Lighting Ceremony tradition will continue for years in Palm Coast, celebrating the spirit that holds the city together. Pontieri took a moment to ask the crowd to turn and hug their family and neighbors. I want us to start spreading the joy right here, right now,” she said.
Pontieri said Christmas has always had important meaning to her, and as a new mother, the meaning of Christmas “is amplified.”
To me,” she said, “Christmas is about a child. And for all of us, Christmas should be about our children and our families.”
–SIERRA WILLIAMS
Santa Claus greets children next to the switch for Christmas lights. Photos by Sierra Williams
Chris and Daniela Hunerberg (center) brought their son Derek Hunerberg to the Fantasy Lights Festival with Clem and Jessica Tullio.
Mako Palmby, 4, Vayda Palmby, 7, Steely McCloud, 4, and Coy McCloud, 3, enjoy their cotton candy.
The Meeker family sponsored a sports-themed light display for Coach Frank Meeker.
The Rotary Club of Flagler County started the Fantasy Light Festival 20 years ago at the suggestion of member Bill Butler, who wanted to honor the dream of his daughter.
This year, to light the tree, children in the crowd were invited to help flip the switch and turn on the Christmas lights.
Maria Loushin dressed as Santa
The walkway surrounding Central Park in Town Center had a series of Christmas light displays, sponsored by various organizations and groups in Flagler County.
Palm Coast Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri
CITY WATCH
Palm Coast releases city’s Winter/Spring Activity Guide
Palm Coast has released the city’s 2025–2026 Winter/ Spring Activity Guide. This guide showcases the heart of Parks & Recreation in Palm Coast, featuring everything from early childhood and youth programs to adult fitness, senior activities, aquatics, seasonal camps, and the city’s signature events scheduled from January through May, a city press release said. Residents can read the full digital guide by visiting www.palmcoast.gov/ parks-and-recreation,
The guide includes available program details, dates, and registrations. For those who prefer a printed copy, the Winter/Spring Activity Guide can also be picked up at the Palm Coast Community Center, located at 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE, during regular business hours, the press release said.
The city encourages residents to dive into the new lineup, discover something that sparks their interest, and register early, as many programs fill quickly. For more information, contact Parks & Recreation at 386-986-2323.
New city manager offered $225K salary
Palm Coast’s new City Manager Michael McGlothlin will earn a base salary of $225,000, not including his benefits package.
This is the highest salary for a city manager in Palm Coast’s history. Previous City Manager Denise Bevan received a base pay of $175,000 while Interim City Manager Lauren Johnston receives a $189,000, as she jointly fills that position with her previous assistant city manager job. McGlothlin, as a city employee, is also eligible for Palm Coast’s medical and health insurance plans, shortterm disability, long-term disability, dental, life insurance and vision insurance.
The contract, with some changes, was approved 5-0 by the Palm Coast City Council. Pending McGlothlin’s acceptance of the changes, he is set to start work on Dec. 17.
“The employment market, in terms of professional management, is in a state that it costs a lot to get a quality person,” Councilman Ty Miller said.
Initially, the contract also included pay for during a state of emergency or disaster event. According to the original contract, McGlothlin would be compensated for “hours actually worked beyond their regular scheduled workday.” Based on his salary, his hourly pay would work out to $108 per hour.
Human Resources Manager Regina Fuller said there is a precedent for paying an individual outside of the 40 hours during an emergency declaration. Mayor Mike Norris characterized it as work outside of the typical 40 hours while “locked in” during an emergency, and while working on emergency-related tasks.
But the board overall had issues with additional pay, and ultimately removed the condition from the contract. Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri said that she did not agree with the additional pay, but at the very least the parameters needed to be better defined.
“I have the utmost faith in Mr. McGlothlin, and I think he’s going to be great for the city,” Pontieri said. “But I’m a steward of the taxpayer dollars, and as such, I think
“If you want a good product, you’re gonna pay for it.”
MIKE NORRIS, Palm Coast mayor
that somebody getting a salary of $225,000, plus all the other bevvy of benefits here in this nice contract, I think that comes with the job.”
Other changes to the contract included removing a sentence in the termination clause the precluded the city manager from being terminated with cause for an action or failure to action unless it is done with intent. The specification of the intent behind hypothetical bad actions would keep the city from being able to terminate with cause, Pontieri argued.
“People get terminated because they make bad decisions,” she said. “It doesn’t mean they had a bad intent, but they made some really bad decisions.”
If the city manager is terminated without cause, McGlothlin would be entitled to his severance package, including lump-sum payment of 20 weeks of his base salary — roughly $86,500 — plus a payment equal to 12 months of health and dental insurance and all accrued vacation and sick leave.
The contract includes a $500 monthly car allowance, a stipend for a work phone or a data plan for a phone, a frontload of 40 hours of vacation leave, with the ability to accrue up to 320 hours of vacation in a year, in addition to sick leave.
McGlothlin will also be eligible for an annual maximum 2%, merit-based raise, to be approved by a majority vote of the City Council.
Mayor Mike Norris, who helped negotiate the contract, said he asked for the raise to be separately approved by the council on a performance basis.
“I personally do not think that city manager salary should be entwined with the regular city employees,” he said.
McGlothlin will also be the first city
manager in Palm Coast to receive an evaluation, once he finishes his first year, since Matt Morton, who was hired in 2019. Interim City Manager Lauren Johnston said that Morton received one evaluation after his first year, but that was it. He resigned in 2021, and Bevan, who took over first as the interim city manager in 2021 did not receive an evaluation during her three-year tenure.
“That’s kind of an issue,” Norris said, “because you have to set the standards, and you’ve got to follow up annually.”
Once McGlothlin takes over the position, Johnston would resume her previous duties as assistant city manager, per the contract she negotiated with the previous city council in 2024 when assuming the interim position.
While several members of the public spoke out against the size of the salary and benefits package, the council agreed that, for a city with a $4 million budget, it’s important to pay the person what the job is worth. Norris pointed out that McGlothlin also has 40 years of experience.
“If you want a good product, you’re gonna pay for it,” Norris said.
Palm Coast water treatment plant doubles capacity to 4 million gallons
Palm Coast’s Water Treatment Plant 2 has completed a major expansion project that doubles the facility’s distribution capacity from 2 million gallons to 4 million gallons of water at any given time.
This project began earlier this year in response to an essential operational need: the addition of a new 2-million-gallon water storage tank to enhance system reliability and better serve the community. The new tank — constructed over the past several months and officially placed online this week — provides improved storage capacity that ensures consistent delivery of clean, safe drinking water while strengthening the city’s emergency response capabilities, a city press release said.
“With this project now complete, the increase in water capacity will provide a vital infrastructure upgrade to our city and enhance our ability to provide clean, safe drinking water to our residents,” Utility Director Brian Roche said. This expansion is one of several improvements underway at Water Treatment Plant 2. The facility is receiving a new sludge thickener to support the lime-softening process, and upgrades aimed at reducing ammonia through enhanced filtration, the press release said.
Residents are encouraged to explore the progress being made throughout Palm Coast by visiting www.palmcoast. gov/pcprogress.
Palm Coast Mayor Mike Norris. Photo by Sierra Williams
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
A new intergovernmental agency?
Petito: Fragmented infrastructure planning can slow economic development.
SIERRA
WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Flagler County, in an effort to further economic development, is going to explore potentially creating a new intergovernmental agency.
The idea comes from Leon County, Florida, and Tallahassee’s Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency, County Administrator Heidi Petito said. The agency operates under a board of directors from city and county commissions to implement major infrastructure projects across the community, according to the agency website.
Petito said she was looking for permission from the Flagler County Commission to begin discussions with the municipalities on creating a similar model agency in Flagler County. From an economic standpoint, she said, jurisdictional fragmentation in planning can slow progress.
“What we are bringing back to you is a potential opportunity that may provide the framework for better coordination and for more effective planning,” she said.
The Flagler County Commission was supportive of beginning the process, at least to get a better understanding of what such an agency could do in Flagler County. Commissioner Andy Dance said if there are efficiencies in creating such an agency, the county
should at least explore the option.
“I don’t know that we can take the exact model,” Dance said, “but scaled down versions of some of the better parts of what Tallahassee and Leon [County] have done.”
Commissioner Pam Richardson said she was not against it but did have some reservations about who would end up being included in the project over others.
“We haven’t had cohesiveness with this type of thing,” Richardson said. “If we don’t have all the partners in, then it’s, again, a divided county.”
Petito said the invitation is open to anyone who wants to be a part of it, but when it comes to considering areas available for growth, Bunnell and Palm Coast have more opportunities available.
“When you look at the makeup of the community, and you look at areas of opportunity, just based on size,” she said, “I think it is probably more than likely the growth that you would see are probably either in unincorporated, Palm Coast or the city of Bunnell, just looking at land mass.”
The initiative is a part of Flagler County’s economic development goals and initiatives. Flagler County’s Economic Development Manager Tywan Arrington said economic development is accomplished through three points: job creation, job retention and quality of life. He said: “The government cannot create jobs, but the government can create the conditions for job creation.”
Those conditions are created through things like commercial revitalization
“Flagler County is at a turning point where growth is happening. But we’re not reaching our full potential.”
support, grants, and other
infrastructure. Flagler County has already begun that process with the creation of its Industrial Development Authority.
The next step with the IDA, Arrington said, is to conduct a strategic analysis for Flagler County to see if it is prepared for successful economic development. Arrington will return with the results of the analysis in February.
According to Arrington and Petito’s presentation on Dec. 1, Flagler County’s four pillars for success include effective government and growth and infrastructure. Tourism is still a major driver for Flagler County’s economic growth, but, Petito said, they have also received a lot of interest from the technology and aviation and aerospace industries.
Flagler County received 53 requests for information from potential businesses in the last fiscal year, but in only 12 of those cases did the county respond with information. That is because, Tourism Development Director Amy Lukasik said, Flagler did not meet the minimum requirements in the other 41 cases.
“Nine times out of 10, it’s at the sites and the building, the infrastructure that’s already there,” she said.
That is a fixable problem, with the right partners, Petito said.
But the county faces other barriers, some of which are being felt across the state, like a lack of affordable housing for the labor force and a growing unemployment rate, as well as community resistance to growth and a lack of diversification across industries.
“Flagler County is at a turning point where growth is happening,” Petito said. “But we’re not reaching our full potential.”
HEIDI PETITO, Flagler County administrator
History of what’s now Palm Coast stretches back to 18th century
A major trade route made its way through the middle of Flagler County in the 1760s.
PRESTON ZEPP
GUEST WRITER
When people hear about history in Florida, most of the time it’s places like St. Augustine that come to mind. Although they would be justified, it was one of the first places settled in North America after all, not many would think of our own backyard, Flagler County, and definitely not where Palm Coast is now.
But, what if I told you that we can document Timucuan activities across the county, that when you drive on Old Kings Road, that you are traveling on a roadway that dates back before the American
Revolution, a sawmill that supplied both St. Augustine and the British Navy was in our northern part, Palm Coast was not the first “city” on the land it calls its borders, cattle once roamed along Palm Coast Parkway, and you can shop for groceries where one of the largest plantations once stood?
And that’s just a small piece of our story. It wasn’t barren land and woods before the subdivisions and golf courses popped up in the late 1960s. It was much more than that, going back to 1768, when the first major trade route made its way down through the middle of our bustling city.
To give you an idea, let’s start with Old Kings Road. It’s old all right, 18th century old.
As the British took over Florida in 1763, it divided it into two separate colonies, 14th (East) and 15th (West). St. Augustine
was made the capital of East Florida because some infrastructure was already there.
But a trade route was needed with Georgia. So, a roadway was built connecting Colraine, Georgia, to St. Augustine. When Dr. Turnbull set up the Smyrna Colony (New Smyrna Beach now), the roadway was extended south to it. It was officially named Kings Road in honor of King George III.
Parts of what we drive on follow that original path. But deep in the woods, we have a section that is exactly on the footprint and looks like it did over 250 years ago — dirt and trees. Kings Road was considered one of the first “highways” in Florida, kind of the I-95 of its day. And we are still using it today.
Preston Zepp is a member of the Flagler County Historical Society.
NEWS BRIEFS
Daytona Beach Symphony Society moves to NewsJournal Center
For the first time in its 74-year history, the Daytona Beach Symphony Society will present its upcoming 2025-2026 concert season at a new venue: the News-Journal Center in Downtown Daytona Beach.
“The excitement building in Downtown Daytona Beach makes this the perfect moment to bring world-class symphonic music into the heart of the city,” said Mark Francis, DBSS executive director in a press release.
“We are thrilled to welcome renowned orchestras from across the country to a venue that matches the caliber of their performances.”
Previously, DBSS concerts were held at the Peabody Auditorium on the beachside.
The 2025-2026 concert season opens on Thursday, Dec. 11, with selections from Handel’s Messiah, performed by the Jacksonville Symphony under the direction of Courtney Lewis.
The season will also feature:
Jan. 8 — “John Williams
Salutes America” a concert
celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S., performed by the Jacksonville Symphony Jan. 30 — “Carmen” by Georges Bizet, performed by Teatro Lirico D’Europa Feb. 26 — The Manhattan Chamber Players, whose concert includes Dvorak’s “Serenade for Strings” and Tchaikovsky’s “Serenade for Strings.”
March 27 — The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by JoAnn Falleta. The concert will include Bruch’s “Scottish Fantasy,” performed by world-renowned violinist Simone Porter, and Brahms’ First Symphony.
For tickets and subscriptions, visit DBSS.org or call 386-253-2901.
Volusia schools selected for drone pilot program for school safety
Volusia County Schools has been selected as one of three school districts in Florida to participate in a school safety pilot program utilizing drones.
An initiative funded by $557,000 by the Florida Legislature, the pilot program with Texas-based company Campus Guardian Angel is aimed at protecting students and staff during active shooter situations. According to a press release by VCS, the
system deploys non-lethal drones within seconds of an emergency alert and provides real-time video to law enforcement.
It also uses deterrents like sirens, flashing lights and pepper spray pellets to disorient a potential active shooter. The district states the drones will be stored onsite and have the ability to reach any point on campus as fast as 15 seconds.
“There is no more important mission than the safety and security of our schools, and the Volusia Sheriff’s Office and Volusia County Schools are eager to work with the state of Florida and Campus Guardian Angel to lead the charge in exploring new tools to protect our students, faculty, and staff,” Sheriff Mike Chitwood said in the press release.
The pilot program will begin implementation in early 2026.
“Being selected for this pilot program is an incredible honor, and we are grateful for the opportunity to lead the way in using cutting-edge technology to safeguard our students and staff,” Superintendent Dr. Balgobin said. “This initiative reflects our commitment to proactive security measures and to ensuring that our schools remain places of learning, not fear.”
Old Kings Road originally connected St. Augustine to Colraine, Georgia, and then was extended through what is now Palm Coast south to the Smyrna Colony in 1768. Courtesy photo
The News-Journal Center. File photo by Jarleene Almenas
The Campus Guardian Angel system will deploy drones to help with student and staff safety during an active shooter situation. Photo courtesy of Volusia County Schools
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5,000 toys received from Flagler, Volusia Margarita Balls for local kids
The Flagler County ball, limited to 200 guests, brought in 800 toys while the Volusia County ball received 4,130 toys from its attendees.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
Almost 5,000 toys will be delivered to children in need in Flagler and Volusia Counties after the 2025 Flagler and Volusia Margarita Balls.
The balls, organized by each county’s Margarita Society, is an invite-only event funded and organized by the Societies’ directors. Each director is given a certain number of invitations, said Cindy Evans, a director on both the Flagler and Volusia County Margarita Society boards.
“Basically, every invitation is for two people, so we expect at least $200 worth of toys from an invitation,” Evans said. “The point is that for every invitation, we want double the toys. But the more the merrier.”
Typically, Evans said, guests end up bringing more than just the two required toys.
The ninth annual Margarita Ball in Flagler County was held at Channel Side on Nov. 7. Limited by its 200-person capacity for the event, the ball still raised over 800 toys for Flagler families. In Volusia, the ball was held on Nov. 22 and brought in 4,130 toys, more than in the previous year.
“A lot of people bring multitudes [of toys],” she said.
“Big, big, big bags of toys.”
Local nonprofits received the toy donations to deliver to children and families who need them.
Evans founded the Fla -
gler County Margarita Ball almost 10 years ago but has been a director of the Volusia County Margarita Society for over 30 years, since she married her husband Jeff Evans,
a co-founder of the Volusia Margarita Society.
The Flagler ball has 20 directors. In Volusia, the event is held at the Ocean Center; each of the 25 directors had 40 invitations, for a total potential of 2,000 guests. Comparatively, in 1988, at the Volusia Margarita Ball’s inaugural event, there were a few hundred attendees.
“But again, it’s a controlled thing, because we aren’t collecting money,” Evans said.
“It’s just us paying for the party, putting the party on, asking our attendees to bring toys.”
According to the Margarita Society of Volusia County’s website, their efforts have
“furnished over 100,000 gifts to needy children throughout Central Florida.”
Below are the recipient nonprofits and organizations for each Margarita Ball:
In Flagler County: A Christmas to Remember; Early Learning Coalition of Flagler County; Flagler Cares; Flagler County Schools; Families in Transition; Flagler County Housing Authority; Loads of Smiles Flagler; I Just Want to Say Women’s Group.
In Volusia County: Beachside Elementary; Central Daytona Beach PAL; Children’s Home Society of Florida; Community Partnership for Children; Early Learning Coalition of Flagler and
Volusia; FBH Community; FUTURES Foundation/Take Stock in Children; Florida Guardian ad Litem Foundation; Jewish Federation of Volusia & Flagler Counties; Kidds Are First Inc.; Loads of Smiles LLC; McInnis Elementary; Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church; Neighbor
To
Family, Inc.; Operation Changing Lives; Ormond Beach Police Athletic League; Pace Center for Girls, Inc.; Residing Hope (Aka Florida United Methodist Children’s Home); Salty Family Services; The Childhood Cancer Foundation Inc.; Volusia Sheriff’s Youth Foundation.
The Margarita Society of Volusia County directors at the 2025 Margarita Ball.
Toys raised by the Flagler Margarita Ball.
The Margarita Ball of Volusia County raised 4,130 toys for local children.
The Margarita Society of Flagler County directors at the 2025 Margarita Ball. Photo courtesy of Cindy Evans
Sen. Leek proposes beach funding support
The Senate Bill would change some stipulations of what can qualify as ‘critically eroded’ beaches.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
A new bill in the Florida Legislature that would provide additional support to beach maintenance has the support of the Flagler County Commission.
Senate Bill 636, proposed by Florida Sen. Tom Leek, proposes changing some requirements for a beach to be declared “critically eroded” to receive financial support for dune renourishment. Leek represents Flagler, Volusia, Putnam and St. Johns counties in the Florida Legislature, three of which are coastal counties that would benefit from the bill.
“Reading it, it really makes sense and it’s going to have a lot of impact in the state,” Commissioner Greg Hansen said at the Dec. 1 Flagler County meeting. “Not just for us, but for any of the coastal counties.
I mean, it’s really a good bill.”
The commission agreed to support it unanimously. Hansen suggested the county go one step further and contact Flagler County’s Rep. Sam Greco to ensure Greco was also behind the bill and to ask the county’s lobbyist about additional ways to support the bill.
Hansen is the commissioner of District 2, which encompasses The Hammock, Marineland and Beverly Beach. Commissioner Kim Carney’s District 3 includes the remainder of the barrier island. Carney suggested the coun-
ty pass a resolution instead of just giving consensus, supported by Commissioner Andy Dance. He said a resolution would give staff to analyze the bill more completely and also outline the specific reasons the county supports the bill.
A resolution will return to the county at the Dec. 15 County Commission meeting for a vote.
Among the proposed changes are stipulations that local governments with perpetual easements for beach maintenance and that suffer repeated inland flooding or structural damage from a lack of spacing between “erosion control line to upland assets,” “must be designated as critically eroded.”
“The bill is all carrot and no stick, in my opinion,” Hammock resident David Eckert said.
Hammock Dunes Owner Association President Greg Davis said he strongly supported the bill and encouraged the county to support the bill,
too. “I think it’s imperative that we kind of get this done,” Davis said.
The bill, if approved in the 2026 legislative session, would go into effect on July 1, 2026.
Flagler County just began the next phase of its emergency dune restoration work at MalaCompra Park on Dec. 1. The county finished the restoration work from Old Salt Park near the Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa and began moving equipment to MalaCompra Park on Dec. 1.
In turn, with construction at Old Salt Park completed, the beach will reopen to the public on Dec. 5, according to a county press release. Sand deliveries will likely begin at MalaCompra Park on Dec. 5. Residents and visitors should use caution around the construction equipment and sand delivery trucks. The work at MalaCompra Park is expected to continue through mid-January pending weather delays.
Kwiatkowski served 20 years on Mosquito Control
NICOLE GRAVES
EAST FLAGLER MOSQUITO
CONTROL DISTRICT
The East Flagler Mosquito Control District is deeply saddened to announce the passing of longtime Commissioner Julius “Jules” Kwiatkowski, who served the residents of Flagler County for nearly two decades as commissioner for EFMCD. First elected in 2008, Kwiatkowski became a steady, trusted presence on the Board.
The commissioners are also preparing to review data on an apportionment survey regarding the special taxing district — per Municipal Service Benefit Unit, or MSBU — the county implemented in The Hammock in December 2024.
On Dec. 9, each commissioner will meet individually with the consulting firm Taylor Engineering to go over the MSBU study for residences in the unincorporated Hammock area on the barrier island.
The MSBU has received strong backlash from Hammock residents, who have said they do not want to be the only Flagler residents paying for the beach renourishment.
As of now, Flagler County has not levied any MSBU tax on Hammock residents and is instead awaiting the results of the survey to make a decision on how much will be levied on Hammock residents. Funds received from the MSBU will only be able to be used on beach renourishment projects in the MSBU area.
Kwiatkowski first ran for the East Flagler Mosquito Control District in 1996, and although he did not win, he continued to run for the seat until he was elected in 2008. His persistence reflected both his belief in the district’s mission and his desire to serve his community.
Before his service with EFMCD, Kwiatkowski spent 30 years as a letter carrier and served for over three decades as a volunteer firefighter in Edison, New Jersey. When he and his wife, Kay, relocated to Palm Coast in 1992, Kwiatkowski immersed himself in community life. He volunteered with the Palm Coast Fire Police and joined civic and social organizations.
Kwiatkowski’s commitment to public safety was especially visible during the 1998 Flagler County wildfires, the only time in Florida’s history that an entire county was evacuated due to wildfire danger. While many fled, Kwiatkowski, who was then volunteering with the Fire Police, remained to assist first responders and support emergency operations. Deeply moved by the experience, he began collecting newspaper clippings, photos, and documents from the fires. His col-
lection later became a public display, ensuring this defining moment in Flagler’s history would never be forgotten.
Jules and Kay shared 62 years of marriage. In 2017, Kwiatkowski arranged a public announcement in the Observer, celebrating their 60th anniversary. Kay died on June 20, 2020. Throughout his tenure on the board, Kwiatkowski helped guide the EFMCD through the construction of its new headquarters and the expansion of mosquito control services to meet the needs of a growing community. His leadership was grounded in humility, practicality, and a genuine desire to improve others’ lives.
The board and district staff wanted to celebrate Kwiatkowski alongside the district’s 70th anniversary. In 2022, the Palm Coast Arts Foundation and EFMCD unveiled “Jules the Turtle.”
“Jules represented the very best of public service,” said Mike Martin, Chair of the East Flagler Mosquito Control District Board of Commissioners.
“He had a big heart, and his passion was serving the public; he will continue to inspire us all.”
Dune work has been completed at Old Salt Park and 16th Road in The Hammock. Courtesy photo
Kay and Jules Kwiatkowski were married 62 years. Courtesy photo
MY VIEW ISABELLA HERRERA
Flagler County is developing to its own demise. Here’s why.
Development is inevitable, but conservation is crucial.
Counties across the state of Florida are experiencing record-breaking heat and severe weather events. At the same time, our beloved sunshine state is seeing unprecedented population growth and urban development — and, consequently, unprecedented deforestation and ecosystem destruction. With people pouring into Florida from across the United States and acres of forests cleared to make way for new construction, our communities’ first line of defense against natural disasters — our ecosystems — have seen a rapid decline.
Flagler County shares the same challenges faced by our neighboring communities, experiencing sweltering summers and flooding following recent hurricanes and severe storms. Even still, we’ve seen an uptick of construction in recent years and widespread destruction of our local ecosystems as a result. Just between the years 2017 and 2021, North Central Florida lost over 34,768 acres of tree cover. The City of Palm Coast lost the most of any municipality during that time period — over 3,155 acres.
Floodwaters that used to recede into wetlands and pine flatwoods are now met with yet another single family home development or a shopping plaza ladened with concrete. Decades-old oak trees and once pristine wetlands — all critical to our community’s air quality and wellbeing — decimated for more storage unit facilities, car washes, and parking lots devoid of trees.
Flagler County is uniquely positioned to invest in our existing community by choosing to develop responsibly, conservatively, and sustainably. Development is inevitable, but conservation is crucial and necessary.
WEATHER WORSENS
Extreme weather events are expensive — and increasing in frequency. Since 1980, the United States has experi-
enced over 403 environmental disasters that have exceeded $1 billion in damage costs, surmounting $2.915 trillion dollars. These costly occurrences are increasing in frequency; in 2024 alone, Florida had 11 extreme weather events that cost over $135.2 billion in damages. Since the 1980s, extreme weather events have cost our state nearly $370 billion, the second highest cumulativedamage costs in the entire country. The Southeastern United States has seen an increase in tornado activity in recent years, and less forest cover means more exposure to the impacts of severe weather events for residents across the county.
The costs of extreme weather events, as well as our communities’ vulnerability to them, will continue to increase. Environmental disasters can cause significant damages to a region’s infrastructure and economy long after they’ve occurred. It’s not if a disaster is going to strike — it’s when.
ECOSYSTEM SERVICES
Ecosystems are our community’s greatest defense against extreme weather and our greatest advantage in progressing as a healthy and resilient community. An ecosystem consists of all of the living organisms, as well as the physical and chemical components (such as the weather, the atmosphere, and the landscape) interacting within a geographic area.
Flagler County is home to a diverse array of ecosystems that provide “benefits,” known as ecosystem services,
including flood and storm protection, erosion control, and freshwater filtration. Our forests, full of towering oaks, pines, and sprawling palms, play a significant role in regulating temperature and air quality, providing shading and cooling to our neighborhoods and roadways. Wetlands and mangroves mitigate flood impacts, protect against storm surge, and help maintain water quality across the region. Sea dunes protect our shorelines from rough surf and erosion — more effectively than any sea wall— and provide habitat and nesting grounds for threatened and endangered species, such as gopher tortoises and sea turtles.
The clearing of these ecosystems for new construction directly impacts our health, our infrastructure, and our ability to bounce back after severe weather events.
Preserving ecosystems and maintaining green spaces within a community not only protects existing developments, but actually increases their property values. The protection of endangered species — and by extension, their habitats —actually leads to an appreciation in property values in proximity to the protected ecosystems.
Flagler County is uniquely positioned to invest in our existing community by choosing to develop responsibly, conservatively, and sustainably. The deforestation and urbanization we’re witnessing across Flagler County has resounding impacts — locally, regionally, and nationally. With the filling of wetlands
and disruptions of naturally occurring stormwater flows, we’re going to be seeing more frequent flooding events locally, even outside of hurricane season. Following Hurricanes Milton and Helene in 2024, neighborhoods in Palm Coast, Bunnell, and Flagler Beach experienced unprecedented flooding after acres of wetlands and forests that had historically absorbed floodwaters have now been filled to support new neighborhoods and shopping plazas.
A HOTTER PLANET
A reduction of green spaces and increased development also means we’ll be seeing increasing temperatures. Land-use changes as a result of population growth — deforestation, industrialization, and urbanization — have a major influence on temperatures locally and regionally. Heat can have significant impacts on both human-made systems and the natural environment: straining a community’s infrastructure, exacerbating existing health issues, and disrupting local economies. Shade provided by trees significantly lower the temperatures of an area — anyone that’s walked through a parking lot barren of trees this past summer can imagine the relief that the shade of just a single tree could provide. While other counties across Florida are scrambling to remedy their poor development choices of the past (clear-cutting and building in flood zones, for example), Flagler County is in a unique position to be proactive in preparing for future natural
disasters, centering conservation in all development decisions, and prioritizing our ecosystems not only for the people of the present, but for the generations of the future.
In the last decade, we’ve seen a slew of private companies capitalizing off our community’s remaining green spaces. KB Home, which states that its “sustainability is built on one essential idea: balance,” generated a $7 billion in revenue for 2024 after developing 106 new communities across the United States. KB Home now has four developments in Flagler County, in addition to its 16 communities in the Jacksonville/St. Augustine area and 34 in the Orlando area.
Sunbelt Land Management, the company behind the Veranda Bay Development along John Anderson Highway, has cleared multiple acres of trees and wetlands in Flagler County, removing the benefits of the mangroves.
Apartment complexes and subdivisions often use words like “preserve” and “reserve” but then build on gopher tortoise habitats and wetlands.
The City of Bunnell recently followed neighboring cities’ Palm Coast and Flagler Beach’s suit and approved a 6,100-home development — The Reserve at Haw Creek — across nearly 2,788 acres in west Flagler County. Despite frequent flooding already burdening Bunnell residents and concerns over arsenic contamination at the two confirmed Cow Dipping
Scott A. Selis, Esq.
Estate
and that’s where
often go tragically (and sometimes hilariously) off course. Here are the top five estate planning mistakes regular folks make.
1. Not Having a Plan Let’s start with the classic: doing nothing. Some people treat estate planning like cleaning the garage — it’s always on the list but never actually happens. The problem? If you don’t make a plan, the state makes one for you. And trust me, the government is terrible at guessing who gets Grandma’s emerald brooch.
2. Naming the Wrong Beneficiaries
People assume once they fill out that beneficiary form, it’s good forever. But things change — marriages end, new kids arrive, siblings go rogue. If your ex life partner is listed as a beneficiary, she or he might get a very unexpected windfall.
3. DIY Legal Documents
Yes, you could use an online form generator or copy your cousin’s will from 1998. You could also cut your own hair or fix your car’s brakes with duct tape. That doesn’t mean you should. Estate law is full of quirks, and one wrong word can send your entire plan straight to probate court — where nothing is fast, fun, or free.
4. Forgetting to Fund the Trust
Creating a living trust is great, but forgetting to put assets into it is like buying a safe and leaving your jewelry on the kitchen counter. A trust without assets is just a fancy stack of paper — and a missed opportunity.
5. Not Planning for Disability
Estate planning isn’t just about death (cheery, right?). It’s also about who manages your finances or makes medical decisions if you’re incapacitated. Without powers of attorney or advance directives, your loved ones could end up in court while you’re stuck in a hospital bed, unaware and unrepresented.
Bottom Line: Estate planning doesn’t have to be scary — but ignoring it won’t make it go away. Do your family a favor: create an estate plan!
Wetlands are filled for a new residential development in Flagler County. Photos by Isabella Herrera
The clearing and filling of wetlands in Flagler County.
What the state — and you — can do about development
Vat sites on the property, the Reserve at Haw Creek development is moving along. How are we sure local residents or any soil and groundwater don’t have arsenic or other contaminants?
THE STATE’S ROLE
While the impacts of irresponsible development and growth are felt locally, these issues cascade from the state level. One major factor contributing to this issue is the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) currently being run by developers — a conflict of interest. The seven FWC Commissioners, appointed by the Florida Governor and confirmed by the Florida Senate, are responsible for “managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.” However, all seven of these political appointees have ties to real estate and commercial development, and little to no expertise in natural resource management or environmental science.
You may recall the proposed plan to build golf courses and hotels in Florida state parks from earlier this year — we can, in part, thank former FWC Commissioner Gary Nicklaus for that controversy, though he’s since resigned and has been replaced by another individual with ties to development. We can also thank the current FWC Commission for approving the first black bear hunt in over a decade, despite insufficient scientific evidence or current research about Florida bear populations and overwhelming opposition from the majority of Floridians.
YOUR TOWN
Christmas with Community Heroes: shopping trip for 100 kids
The 17th annual Christmas with Community Heroes shopping event is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Palm Coast Walmart.
The event was founded by Larry Jones in 2008. This year, the event is supporting 100 local children, ages 4-12, whose families are facing hardships this holiday season. The children have been recommended by Flagler Schools guidance counselors. Each child receives $150 to shop for gifts at Walmart and is paired with a “Community Hero” who walks beside them, helping them select items, stay on budget and, most importantly, feel seen, supported and celebrated.
The Community Heroes may include first responders, nurses, teachers, medical professionals, veterans, local business owners, volunteers, community leaders, elected officials or neighbors who want to give back.
Here’s how to help:
Make donations to Christmas with Community Heroes and mail check to CWCH, P.O. Box 1954, Bunnell, FL 32110 or via PayPal at @cwchflagler.
Volunteer to help shop or wrap gifts by sending an email to cwchflagler@gmail.com.
Santa is coming to Bunnell neighborhoods on Dec. 5 and Dec. 13
Santa Claus is coming to visit the neighborhoods of Bunnell on two nights in December.
On Friday, Dec. 5, he will drive through the neighborhoods south of East Moody Boulevard, including Pine Forest, Old Haw Creek and Deen
A proposed amendment aims to reform the FWC Commission to encompass a variety of local and regional expertise to ensure representation for farmers, hunters and anglers, and conservationists — not just private developers and real estate interests. You can learn more about the growing movement to demand greater transparency, scientific integrity, and public accountability within the FWC Commission at https://reformfwc.org.
In response to public outcry this past year, Florida’s 175 state parks are now protected from future developments. However, a recent bill introduced by Flagler County’s U.S. Rep., Randy Fine, seeks to establish 2,800 square miles of land in Florida, including our own Princess Place Preserve, as part of the National Parks system — and this bill has the potential to do more harm
Road, accompanied by the Bunnell Police Department. On Saturday, Dec. 13, he will drive through the neighborhoods north of East Moody Boulevard, including Grand Reserve and Palm Terrace Mobile Home Park. Santa will start each journey at the Bunnell Police Department at 4:30 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be at Bunnell Christmas 2025 on Friday, Dec. 12. The free event will run 5-9 p.m. at JB King Park, 300 Citrus St. It will include a carnival area, Florida snow, an obstacle course, Christmas characters, free s’mores, a Christmas passport game, holiday activities and music.
Breakfast with Santa at Matanzas High cafeteria: Dec. 13.
Meet Santa and the Grinch at Breakfast with Santa, 8-11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 at the Matanzas High School cafeteria. Cost is $5 per person. Event includes photo booth with free print-outs, raffle baskets, cookie decorating, face painting, arts and crafts, games and music. For more information, email breakfastwithsanta2@gmail.com.
Ormond DAR to honor veterans for Wreaths Across America
The Capt. James Ormond Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution will host the 10th annual Wreaths Across America ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 13. The ceremony, which honors deceased veterans of all service branches, will be held at 9 a.m. at the Hillside Cemetery at 143 Seton Trail in Ormond Beach. The local DAR chapter is aiming to honor all 250 veteran graves with a live balsam wreath. To help sponsor a wreath, visit
than good if passed. A major concern is that at this time, federally managed lands do not have the same level of protection as achieved by the recent Florida state parks bill, and could lead to future development decisions being made by the federal government, overriding local and state decision makers.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
It’s time to advocate for responsible, sensible, and conservative growth in our local communities by attending a meeting. Voice your concern about how the county is being developed with local leadership
The Flagler County Planning and Development Board meets on the second Tuesday of each month.
You can check the schedule for Palm Coast’s City Council meetings at: https://www. palmcoast.gov/agendas/
www.wreathsacrossamerica. org/FL0645. Want to volunteer to lay them or attend the ceremony? The DAR asks you arrive by 8:45 a.m. The ceremony will take place at the flagpole in the center of the cemetery.
Arc of Volusia’s ornament fundraiser supports new van
The Arc of Volusia has launched a community ornament fundraiser to help purchase a 15-passenger van for the individuals with disabilities in the nonprofit’s programs.
“Many of the people we serve rely on us every single day for safe transportation to medical appointments, activities, and meaningful experiences throughout Volusia County,” an email to the Observer stated. “This new van will directly improve their access to the community and enhance their quality of life.”
The van, according to the fundraiser page, will help with transportation for day trips to places like the Sanford Zoo, Dave & Buster’s, the Museum of Arts and Sciences and for activities such as bowling, swimming and dining out.
The Arc Of Volusia was established in 1961 and serves people with intellectual and/ or developmental disabilities. It provides an adult day training program and supports adults with supported employment.
The ornaments cost $10 for one or three for $25. The Arc of Volusia has a $10,000 fundraising goal.
Ornaments for the fundraiser can be purchased from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday at The Arc of Volusia’s front office. They can also be purchased online at https://givebutter.com/ CuAyXx.
Send Your Town stories to brent@observerlocalnews. com.
meetings/city-council/2025
You can check the schedule for Bunnell’s City Council meetings at: https://www. bunnellcity.us/node/470/ agenda/2025.
You can check the City of Flagler Beach’s Commission meeting schedule at: https:// www.cityofflaglerbeach. com/calendar.aspx?CID=25
Supporting land acquisition efforts;
Applications to the Flagler County Land Acquisition Committee can be sent in at any time, and are found on Page 50 of the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Acquisition Manual;
Applications for new Florida Forever projects are accepted two times a fiscal year, Oct. 15 and April 15;
Contacting your elected representatives;
Flagler County’s represen-
tative is Randy Fine. You can email him or call his Washington, D.C., office at: 202225-2706. His communications director can be reached at: esteban.elizondo@mail. house.gov.
Not a resident of Flagler County? Find your representative at https://www.house. gov/representatives/findyour-representative. We need to prioritize the conservation of our remaining ecosystems in all future development decisions. The clear cutting of acres of forest and destruction of critical wetland habitat must come to an end. Development is inevitable, but conservation is crucial and necessary.
Isabella Herrera is a lifelong resident of Flagler County. A graduate of Matanzas High School, Herrera achieved her bachelor’s degree in sustain-
A comparison of a local development before and after construction. The photo on the right (taken in 2024) shows a manmade beach where mangroves have been removed. As of August 2025, the beach has been expanded, and more mangroves at other lots have been removed. Photo by Isabella Herrera
YOUR NEIGHBORS
Before the feast
A record 1,178 runners and walkers registered for the 5K run on Thanksgiving morning.
REMY BATTLES CONTRIBUTING WRITER
What’s a better way to start your Thanksgiving than with a 5 kilometer run followed by a costume contest? Those who participated in Palm Coast’s annual Feet to Feast 5K on Thanksgiving morning seemed to agree.
A record 1,178 runners and walkers entered the race that began and finished at the Daytona State College Flagler/Palm Coast Campus. The course ran along the Intracoastal Waterway toward the Hammock Bridge and back to DSC. Some ran in elaborate costumes, competing both on the race course and in the costume contests.
Participants from ages 1 to 90 worked up an appetite for their Thanksgiving dinners. The oldest runner was Grace McGovern, 90, who finished the race in under an hour.
The overall winner and female winner were a couple, Mark Shannon and Hannah Ielfield, from Twinsburg, Ohio, both running in the Feet to Feast for the first time. They were visiting Shannon’s family for Thanksgiving in Daytona Beach and ewere xcited about the change in scenery from Daytona, where they usually race during their visit.
Both Shannon and Ielfield ran in college. Shannon won the Feet to Feast by over a minute with a time of 15 minutes, 26 seconds. Athan Figueroa of Miami was second in 16:33, Matanzas High School freshman Dylan Ciardi was third in 16:38. Ielfield was sixth overall in 17:04.
The Kales and Brocksmith families joined forces to create their chef-and-bakingturkey costumes.
“It was a great start to our day. It’s our family tradition.
… We use this to preheat ourselves for some turkey,” Greg Brocksmith said.
They were not the only family with a turkey costume. Brielle Mahannah took the cake with her costume — an oven and her pregnant belly baking a turkey. “I’ve been baking her for nine months,” Mahannah said.
Mahannah is due Dec. 6, nine days after the race, which she finished in 28:36, understandably her slowest 5K ever, she said.
Top finishers took home a medal and a pie. Costume awards were presented for the cutest kid costume, best overall costume, best couple costume and best family costume.
“The Lean, Mean, Green Bean Machine,” was the theme of this year’s event, with the Thanksgiving side, green beans, taking center stage as
the logo this year. Medals in the shape of green beans were handed to every finisher, a souvenir that marked the success of this year’s Feet to Feast event: bringing families together and keeping Palm Coast healthy.
WINNERS
OVERALL WINNERS
MALE: Mark Shannon
FEMALE: Hannah Ielfield
AGE GROUP WINNERS
MALE 0-8: 1. Lucas Wisniewski. 2. William Milder. 3. Thomas Milder.
FEMALE 0-8: 1. Alyssa Shields. 2. Molly Harris. 3. Claire Gutterman.
MALE 9-12: 1. Bradley Stackpole. 2. Gavin Garrett. 3. Harrison Bennett. FEMALE 9-12: 1. Mia Kopcikova. 2. Aspen Lester. 3. Madelyn Yorgey. MALE 13-15: 1. Dylan Ciardi. 2. Martin Ivancik. 3. Owen Stackpole. FEMALE 13-15: 1. Carsyn Olinn. 2. Hailey Brennan. 3. Avery Wisniewski. MALE 16-19: 1. Athan Figueroa. 2. Brant Tarsitano. 3. Evan Johnson. FEMALE 16-19: 1. Peyton O’linn. 2. Emma Skinner. 3. Ansley Buday. MALE 20-24: 1. Alex Mikhas. 2. Sean Gilliam. 3. Jack Livingston. FEMALE 20-24: Hannah Ielfield (1st overall). 1. Cheyenne Hulsey. 2. Natalie Colpoys. 3. Genesis Epstein.
MALE 25-29: Mark Shannon (1st overall). 1. Mikey Garcia. 2. Ashton Garrett. 3. Cameron Skinner. FEMALE 25-29: 1. Abigail Reinert. 2. Elizabeth Cronin. 3. Hannah Drosdick. MALE 30-34: 1. Thomas Carroll. 2. Zack Pierola. 3. Simon Ep. FEMALE 30-34: 1. Courtney Wisniewski. 2. Hailey Mckinley. 3. Jennifer Markovska. MALE 35-39: 1. Sean Guldi. 2. Andrew Earle. 3. Travis Phipps. FEMALE 35-39: 1. Kimberley Roberts. 2. Jen Ngetich. 3. Gina Domaoal. MALE 40-44: 1. Joseph Cimino. 2. Rocky Giannetta. 3. Joey Arzuaga. FEMALE 40-44: 1. Shannon Jones. 2. Stephanie Shields. 3. Brooke Tucker. MALE 45-49: 1. Ron Quinn. 2. James Lowry. 3. Olin Lester FEMALE 45-49: 1. Jessie Magee. 2. Michelle Hulsey. 3. Stacey Bailey. MALE 50-54: 1. Lewis Beilman. 2. Michael Livingston. 3. Robert Domaoal. FEMALE 50-54: 1. Angela Hetzler. 2. Alexa Samp-
selle. 3. Ingrid Campos. MALE 55-59: 1. Mickey Garrett. 2. David Colpoys. 3. Robert Montano. FEMALE 55-59: 1. Sheila Sullivan. 2. Anonymous. 3. Jennifer Wislocki. MALE 60-64: 1. Bob Reynolds. 2. Jeff Vincent. 3. Anthony Cannizzaro FEMALE 60-64: 1. Lisa Cottrell. 2. Shawn Barbeiro. 3. Kristin Klebacha. MALE 65-69: 1. Joseph Trubacz. 2. Hank Wysocki. 3. Craig Crowson. FEMALE 65-69:
These kids cheer for their dad, who runs faster than your dad. Photo by Brent Woronoff
Jack and Sarah Havers and Alec (age 1). Photo by Brent Woronoff
Brielle Mahannah has a baby in the oven — she’s nine months pregnant, due on Dec. 6 — and finished the race in 28 minutes, 36 seconds, her slowest 5K ever. For her Thanksgiving themed costume, she had a turkey in the oven.
Photo by Brent Woronoff
Stephanie Ellis, center, with children and mom, Debbie Dearduff Ellis. Photo by Remy Battles
Darla Govani supports her runners’ groups. Govani ran in the Skunk Ape Marathon in DeBary on her 50th birthday on Nov. 23 and was still recovering. Photo by Remy Battles
The Kales and Brocksmith families. Photo by Remy Battles
The overall winner and female winner: Mark Shannon and Hannah Ielfield.
Photo by Remy Battles
THURSDAY, DEC. 4
DSC PRESENTS ‘OUR GIFT TO THE COMMUNITY’ HOLIDAY SHOWCASE
When: 7 p.m.
Where: News-Journal Center, 221 N. Beach St., Daytona Beach
Details: See the Daytona Beach Symphonic Band perform holiday favorites. Free.
FRIDAY, DEC. 5
HOLIDAY SALE
When: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 5; and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6
Where: Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Ormond Beach, 56 N. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach
Details: Browse through this annual holiday sale featuring ornaments, décor, jewelry, gifts, crafts and more. Proceeds benefit outreach programs serving the homeless population. Visit uuormond.info.
MOONRISE AT THE BEACH
When: 4:45-5:30 p.m.
Where: Gamble Rogers Memorial State Park, 3100 S Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler
Beach
Details: Learn facts about the moon and watch it rise. Bring binoculars and a camera for photo opportunities. Meet at the beachside pavilion. Park entry fee applies.
THE CASEMENTS 47TH
ANNUAL CHRISTMAS GALA
When: 5-9 p.m. Friday, Dec.
5; 12-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6-7
Where: The Casements, 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach
Details: Celebrate the start of the holiday season with the annual tree lighting in Rockefeller Gardens at 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5. There will e live entertainment, food trucks, train rides, handmade crafts, a tree gallery and more.
FREE FAMILY ART NIGHT
When: 5:30-7 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Bring your family for a fun art project. All art supplies are provided. No art experience needed. All ages are welcome. Free program.
PAR-TEE AFTER DARK
When: 6-9 p.m.
Where: Palm Harbor Golf Club, 20 Palm Harbor Drive, Palm Coast
Details: Join the city of Palm Coast for a family-friendly glow-in-the-dark golf experience. Registration is available at ParksandRec.fun. The cost is $30 dollars for individuals or $100 for teams of four. Each golfer receives a commemorative glow-in-the-dark golf ball. A total of 84 spots are open, with tee times assigned upon registration.
CMTW PRESENTS
‘FROZEN JR.’
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5; 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6; and 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7
Where: Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center, 399 N. U.S. 1, Ormond Beach
Details: Children’s Musical Theatre Workshop is celebrating their 44th year, and their fall show is Disney’s “Frozen Jr.,” based on the 2018 Broadway musical. Tickets cost $15. Children 3 and under free with a paid ticket. Visit ormondbeachperformingartscenter. csstix.com.
SATURDAY, DEC. 6
ANNUAL CRAFT AND BAKE
SALE
When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: St. Mark by the Sea Lutheran Church, 303 Palm Coast Parkway, NE, Palm Coast
Details: Hosted by the Women of St. Mark, this sale supports local, state, and national nonprofits. There will be a variety of handmade items for sale including quilts, stained glass, diamond paintings, table runners, baked goods and more. Cash and credit cards accepted.
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA When: 8-10 a.m.
Where: Captain’s BBQ, 5862
N. Oceanshore Blvd., Palm Coast
Details: The Seawolf Privateers will host a breakfast with Santa. All sales will go toward toys and gifts for local foster and displaced children this holiday. Tickets cost $10 for adults; $6 for children under 12. Visit seawolfprivateers.org/ fundraisers.
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.
NATURAL BEAUTY NATIVE PLANT PRESENTATION
When: 10 a.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Environmental Discovery Center, 601 Division Ave., Ormond Beach
Details: Receive an intro to native shrubs and browse through plants for sale. Hosted by the EDC.
HOLIDAY AT THE BEACH PARADE
When: 1-2 p.m.
Where: A1A, North 6th Street to South 6th Street Flagler
Beach
Details: Head to Flagler Beach to watch a community parade with festive floats, marching bands, classic cars, first responders and more. Hosted by the Rotary Club of Flagler beach and the City of Flagler Beach.
DAYTONA PLAYHOUSE TRAVELING TROUPE
When: 2 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach
Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach
Details: Enjoy a holiday performance of “The Christmas Show,” an episode from “My Friend Irma,” by the Daytona Playhouse Traveling Troupe.
NATURE JOURNALING: DEER
When: 2-3:30 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Environmental Discovery Center, 601 Division Ave., Ormond
Beach
Details: This is a beginnerfriendly adult learning program that includes a presentation about deer, plus drawing and writing activities. The EDC recommends you bring your own journal, but all materials will be provided.
ORMOND ART WALK When: 3-7 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach
MainStreet Arts District, 128 W. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Join 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.
STARLIGHT PARADE When: 4-9 p.m.
Where: Central Park at Town Center, 975 Central Ave., Palm Coast
Details: Watch the Starlight Parade light up Central Park with holiday floats, marching band and Christmas spirit. The pre-parade event starts at 4 p.m. with food vendors and entertainment. The parade will start at 6 p.m.
HEAVEN AND NATURE SING When: 4-6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6 and Sunday, Dec. 7
Where: Central Baptist Church, 152 Fairview Ave., Daytona Beach (Dec. 6); and St. James Episcopal Church, 44 S. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach (Dec. 7)
Details: The Bel Canto Singers of Daytona Beach will perform Christmas standards and melodies, along with solos. Tickets cost $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Visit belcantodaytona.org.
THE LOCALS MIX 2025 MUSIC +ARTS EXPO When: 5-9 p.m.
Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: Attend this celebration of creativity. There will be an original music competition, live painting, food trucks, drinks and artisan vendors. No cover to explore the museum, gardens and vendor village. Rooftop music admission is $10 in advance or $15 at the door. Visit thelocalsmix. com.
JINGLE & JAMMIES
SLUMBER PARTY
When: 7 p.m. to midnight
Where: Palm Coast Lanes, 11 Old Kings Road N., Palm Coast
Details: Sip & Bowl and Live Like Cameron are teaming up for a slumber party with Santa. Dance to your favorite sing-alongs, party hits and Christmas classics with DJ Big Mike Brown. Palm Coast Lanes is also a toy drive dropoff location.
SUNDAY, DEC. 7
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS PANCAKE BREAKFAST
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Where: Social Hall at St. Brendan Catholic Church, 1000 Ocean Shore Blvd., Ormond Beach
Details: The Father Eamonn Gill Council 13018 Knights of Columbus will serve their famous pancake breakfast. The meal includes all the pancakes you can eat, scrambled eggs, a sausage link, orange juice and endless coffee. Costs $6 for adults; children under 12 eat free. All are welcome.
STREAM: MATH WITH NO-
SEW FAMILY BEANIES
When: Noon
Where: Ormond Beach
Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach
Details: Families and teens will practice measurement skills and learn how to make a fleece beanie without sewing. This program is open to ages 8 and up. Registration is required. Call 386-676-4191.
BACC VINTAGE CAR
DISPLAY
When: 12-4 PM
Where: Teddy Morse’s Daytona Harley-Davidson Pavilion,1637 N. U.S. 1, Ormond
Beach
Details: There will be HD car picks, a 50/50 raffle benefiting Toys For Tots, live music by Fuse, a food truck and a Good Humor truck selling ice cream. Unwrapped toy for Toys For Tots are appreciated. Free show.
CHRISTMAS MUSIC
PROGRAM
When: 3 p.m.
Where: Lighthouse Christ
Presbyterian Church, 1035 W. Granada Blvd. Ormond Beach
Details: The public is invited to attend this program, to include music by the Sanctuary Choir, the JuBellation Handbell choir, special soloists and duets. There will also be a Christmas carol sing-along and an audience participation version of the 12 days of Christmas. Following the program, there will be a cookie and hot chocolate reception.
A KINDA WACKY
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
When: 3:30-5:30 p.m.
Where: Ormond Beach Presbyterian Church, 105 Amsden Road, Ormond Beach
Detals: The Daytona Beach Choral Society will perform this silly concert featuring songs about ugly sweaters, funny family dynamics and phone-focused gatherings. There will also be a carol singalong to close the concert. Holiday attire encouraged. A free reception with refreshments, karaoke and a photo booth will follow.
HANDEL’S ‘MESSIAH’
When: 4 p.m.
Where: Palm Coast United Methodist Church, 6500 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast
Details: See the Christmas portion of Handel’s “Messiah” performed live with the Hallelujah Chorus, accompanied by the Chamber Players of Palm Coast.
Chris Hazlett, a 20year commercial fisherman, bought the business 18 months ago
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
For almost a decade, A1A Fisheries has been quietly serving up fresh seafood to Hammock residents while supporting local fishermen.
Chris Hazlett has only owned A1A Fisheries for the last 18 months. He purchased the shop from the previous owner, local Bill O’Neill, in July 2024, after working for O’Neill in the shop since September 2023.
As a retail fishmonger, A1A Fisheries has a little bit of everything, Hazlett said, from crab and salmon to grouper and other local fish. A crowd favorite is the smoked salmon — which, he said, is brined and smoked in-house — and the fresh local fish is caught by either local fishermen or Hazlett. Some varieties, like the salmon and halibut, A1A Fisheries purchases from out of state.
Around 90% their stock is supplied by locals, he said, and can vary by the season. Going into the winter months,
as an example, Hazlett said he expects to have a more generous supply of fish like sheepshead, a white fish with a mild taste.
He may be the new owner of A1A Fisheries, but Hazlett has been working with fish for most of his life. For the last 10 years, Hazlett has run a charter boat business in Jacksonville, and, for the last 20 years, he’s also run a commercial fishing business. He’s sold fish to O’Neill at A1A Fisheries for years, he said.
One day, during a winterlull in charters, Hazlett said O’Neill asked him to come work at A1A Fisheries.
“Then it just kind of spiraled, and he wanted to sell it,” Hazlett said. “And I was like, ‘Well, alright, I guess I can stop chartering and start cutting fish.’”
Hazlett comes by his passion for the ocean and fishing from his father. A school teacher by trade, Hazlett’s father would go out on commercial fishing trips on weekends and during the summer.
Hazlett’s father taught himhow to commercial fish and spear fish.
Commercial fishing trips can last for days, he said. Following their return to land, the fishermen bring him their catch.
“Everything that we have is fresh cut that day. You can’t get that at any of your big stores.”
CHRIS HAZLETT
“It’s caught right out of St. Augustine or Ponce Inlet,” he said. Some fishermen go as far as 50-80 miles out to sea for a catch.
Because he knows the job personally, Hazlett said he enjoys being in a position to help his fellow fisherman.
“They don’t get paid enough in the first place,” Hazlett said. “They should get paid way more. If everybody knew what they went through to get their fish, then it’d be a lot different.”
The Hammock community has shown Hazlett support, purchasing their fish from him instead of the box stores. It’s worth the difference in price to know the fish is fresh, he said.
“You don’t know where most of that stuff [in box stores] is coming from,” he said. “Our prices might be a little bit higher for your groupers and snappers and stuff, but everything that we have is fresh cut that day. You can’t get that at any of your big stores.”
A1A Fisheries has everything from crab and salmon to grouper and other local fish. Courtesy photo
Panda Express and Bojangles to open soon on LPGA in Daytona Beach
Panda Express, located near the Tanger Outlets, is awaiting final paperwork from the city.
SIERRA WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
A new Panda Express could be opening soon in Daytona Beach on LPGA Boulevard near North Clyde Morris Boulevard in a matter of weeks.
The 2,700-square-foot restaurant is located at 1950 LPGA Blvd. and will have a two-lane drive-thru. Troy Perkins, a project manager with Gerald N Candito Construction, out of Georgia, said he and a Panda Express
representative would be conducting the final walkthrough on either Dec. 2 or 3 and, barring any issues, would just be waiting on the final approval from Daytona Beach. Once a certificate of occupancy is issued, the restaurant could open within the week, Perkins said. A representative from Panda Express could not be reached in time for the publication of this article.
The Panda Express is one of several new restaurants under construction in the area between Williamson Boulevard and North Clyde Morris on LPGA. The area is near Tanger Outlets shopping plaza and abuts a new large apartment complex.
A Bojangles — a quick-service Southern chicken restaurant — directly neighbor-
ing the Panda Express at 1956 LPGA Blvd., is also wrapping up construction.
The Bojangles is a 3,170-square-foot building that will also have a two-lane drive-thru and has a maximum occupancy of 73. Daytona Beach first announced the LPGA Bojangles would be opening soon on June 5 on the
The
true reminder of the love and community that surrounds The Salty Mermaid Art Gallery & Studio.”
food
Coastal Gateway Real Estate Group organizes donation to Grace food pantry
Coastal Gateway Real Estate Group recently organized a social event at Yacht Harbor Village condos raising $200 for the Grace Community Food Pantry and collecting nonperishable food items that filled two wagon loads.
Joani McCullough and Fran DeMartin from Coastal Gateway organized the event.
Email business stories to sierra@observerlocalnews.com.
city Facebook page. This will be the first Bojangles to open in the area, according to the restaurant’s website.
According to city documents, the Bojangles is undergoing the final review. While the final building review is pending, the project has already passed a fire site, electrical, gas, mechanical and
plumbing final review at the end of November.
Nearby, at 1972 LPGA Blvd., a second Daytona Beach Dutch Bros, a drive-thru coffee shop, is under construction, and White Castle has announced its fourth store location in
With
Annette Turcotte, Crystal Strobridge, The Salty Mermaid owner Penny Shumate, Amber Shellenberger and Christine Marie.
Wendy Burke performs during
Salty Mermaid Art Gallery and Studio’s sixth anniversary holiday party.
Mary Vamos, Joanne Murphy, Fran DeMartin and Joani McCullough at Yacht Harbor condos with wagon loads of nonperishable
collected for Grace Community Food Pantry. Courtesy photos
Florida, to be located at 1944 LPGA Blvd., on the east lot next to the Panda Express. No plans or applications have been filed with Daytona Beach for the White Castle, according to the city’s website.
The new Daytona Beach Bojangles is located at 1956 LPGA Blvd.
Daytona Beach’s new Panda Express is located at 1950 LPGA Blvd.
Photos by Sierra Williams
REAL ESTATE
Palm Coast Plantation home tops list at $1.2M
Ahouse at 110 Heron Drive, in Palm Coast Plantation, was the top real estate transaction for Nov. 15-21, in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The house sold on Nov. 18, for $1,200,000. Built in 2013, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a pool, a boat dock, a fireplace, an outdoor kitchen and 3,499 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $690,000.
ALEXIS MILLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Condos
A condo at 20 Porto Mar, Unit 302, sold on Nov. 21, for $840,000. Built in 2004, the condo is a 2/2.5 and has 2,150 square feet. It sold in 2015 for $438,000.
A condo at 500 Canopy Walk Lane, Unit 515, sold on Nov. 20, for $425,000. Built in 2003, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,712 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $320,000.
A condo at 102 Yacht Harbor Drive, Unit 465, sold on Nov. 19, for $399,000. Built in 2006, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1m570 square feet. It sold in 2006 for $675,000.
PALM COAST
Flagler Village
A house at 6 Wandering Creek Way sold on Nov. 21, for $357,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,193 square feet.
A house at 35 Derbyshire Drive sold on Nov. 20, for $312,900. Built in 2025, the
house is a 4/2 and has 1,607 square feet.
Lehigh Woods
A house at 14 Ryal Tern Lane sold on Nov. 21, for $330,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,230 square feet. It sold in 2002 for $99,900.
A house at 12 Ripcord Lane sold on Nov. 17, for $304,900. Built in 2025, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,333 square feet.
Palm Coast Plantation
A house at 21 North Riverwalk Drive sold on Nov. 21, for $699,999. Built in 2022, the house is a 3/2.5 and has 2,031 square feet.
A house at 207 S. Riverwalk Drive sold on Nov. 21, for $1,070,000. Built in 2010, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a boat house, a boat lift, a boat dock, a fireplace, an outdoor kitchen and 2,929 square feet. It sold in 2022 for $1,102,500.
A house at 80 North Lakewalk Drive sold on Nov. 19, for $652,000. Built in 2023,
New build in Ormondby-the-Sea: $750K
Ahouse at 155 Avalon Drive in the Avalon by the Sea subdivision was the top estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormondby-the-Sea for the week of Nov. 8-14. The house sold on Nov. 10, for $750,000. Built in 2025, the house is a 3/3 and has a fireplace and 2,024 square feet.
JARLEENE
Condos The condo at 140 Limewood Place, Unit 2, sold on Nov. 10, for $147,000. Built in 1985, the condo is a 2/2.5 and has 1,316 square feet. It last sold in 1990 for $58,000.
The condo at 1 John Anderson Drive, Unit 1070, sold on Nov. 14, for $380,000. Built in 1996, the condo is a 2/2.5 and has 1,745 square feet. It last sold in 2010 for $160,000.
ORMOND BEACH
Arbor Lakes
The townhome at 36 Arbor Lake Park sold on Nov. 10, for $199,000. Built in 1985, the townhome is a 3/2.5 and has 1,496 square feet. It last sold
in 2017 for $111,000.
Archer’s Mill
The house at 3350 Arch Ave. sold on Nov. 13, for $402,990. Built in 2025, the 4/2 house has 2,034 square feet.
Castlegate
The house at 3 King Edward Drive sold on Nov. 14, for $470,000. Built in 1990, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a fireplace, a pool and 2,187 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $315,000.
Fountain View
The house at 1351 Morning Walk Drive sold on Nov. 10, for $371,665. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,020 square feet.
Halifax Plantation
The house at 2861 Monaghan
Drive sold on Nov. 10, for $420,000. Built in 2022, the house is a 3/3 and has 2,048 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $442,000.
The house at 3753 Mayo Circle sold on Nov. 14, for $635,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 4/4 and has a pool and 2,863 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $395,000.
Pine Hills
The manufactured house at 520 Bryant St. sold on Nov. 12, for $100,000. Built in 1970, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,688 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $110,000.
Plantation Bay
The house at 1273 Sunningdale Lane sold on Nov. 12, for $490,000. Built in 2002, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace, a pool and 2,117 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $460,000.
Saddlers Run
The house at 51 Sounders Trail Circle sold on Nov. 14, for $415,000. Built in 1999, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,898 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $275,000.
Sandy Oak The house at 539 Sandy Oaks Blvd. sold on Nov. 14, for $336,500. Built in 1987, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace and 1,681 square feet. It last sold in 2015 for $156,000.
JOAN BURNETT REALTOR® Broker Associate
Grande Champion
The house at 1036 Morfontaine St. sold on Nov. 10, for $399,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,020 square feet.
Latitude Margaritaville
The house at 1078 Castaway Court sold on Nov. 10 for $660,000. Built in 2019, the house is a 2/2.5 and has a spa, a pool and 2,080 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $473,300.
The house at 326 Pop Top Lane sold on Nov. 10, for $392,500. Built in 2023, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,464 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $331,100.
The house at 596 Hang Loose Way sold on Nov. 10, for $510,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,684 square feet. It last
Tomoka Oaks
The house at 64 Oakmont Circle sold on Nov. 14, for $445,000. Built in 1975, the house is a 4/2 and has a pool and 1,850 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $265,000.
ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA
Ocean Aire
The house at 119 Ocean Aire
Terrace S. sold on Nov. 14, for
sold in 2024 for $496,000. The house at 374 Lost Shaker Way sold on Nov. 12, for $540,000. Built in 2020, the house is a 2/2.5 and has 2,067 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $575,000.
The house at 768 Coral Reef Way sold on Nov. 12, for $565,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,848 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $451,300.
The house at 512 Barefoot Life Lane sold on Nov. 12, for $657,000. Built in 2022, the house is a 2/2.5 and has 2,339 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $461,000.
The house at 245 Gypsy Palace Lane sold on Nov. 13, for $345,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,205 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $345,900.
The house at 308 Low Tide
$379,000. Built in 2005, the 3/2 house has 1,637 square feet. It last sold in 2010 for $189,900.
Ocean Breeze
The house at 13 Starlight Drive sold on Nov. 12, for $455,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,610 square feet. It last sold in 2011 for $265,000.
Lane sold on Nov. 10, for $537,500. Built in 2022, the house is a 2/2.5 and has a pool, a spa and 1,743 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $424,700.
Preserve at LPGA The house at 1227 Belle Isle Lane sold on Nov. 10, for $379,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 5/2.5 and has 2,326 square feet.
LPGA The house at 1143 Champions Drive sold on Nov. 13, for $360,000. Built in 2006, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,804 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $390,000.
Mosaic The house at 249 Mosaic Blvd. sold on Nov. 12, for $449,000. Built in 2024, the house is a 4/2 and has 2,003 square feet. It last sold in April 2025 for $522,500.
The house at 9 Dolphin Ave. sold on Nov. 14, for $400,000. Built in 1956, the house is a 2/1 and has a pool, a spa and 1,359 square feet. It last sold in 2001 for $83,000.
John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.
Ormond by the Sea – This cozy 2-bedroom,
Ormond Beach Plaza
WEST DAYTONA BEACH
FOCUS ON FAITH
Missionaries launch Haitian Creole classes
Two elders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Elijah Nyre and Chinaza Uyanwune, have launched a new outreach effort aimed at supporting the local Haitian population. The missionaries have begun teaching weekly lessons in Haitian Creole as a way to share the message of Jesus Christ while also helping participants develop English-language skills.
The free classes are held every Thursday at 7 p.m. at 402 N. Palmetto St., Bunnell, and are open to all members of the public, regardless of religious background. A Sunday School class in Haitian Creole will also be held at 10 a.m. the first Sunday of each month through the end of the year; in 2026, the time changes to 12:30 p.m.
In addition to the weekly meetings, Nyre and Uyanwune, originally from Victorville, California, and Boston, Massachusetts, respectively, use social media to reach individuals who may not yet be aware of the church’s programs.
“A lot of people reach out to us through social media, where we post about Jesus Christ and our English classes,” Nyre said. “When someone fills out their info, we’ll call them, set up a time to visit, and just get to know them. We invite them to read the scriptures, to pray, and to come worship Jesus Christ with us. We also go out and talk with everyone we meet, inviting anyone who’s looking for peace, community, or a sense of family. That’s really important to a lot of people.”
Call Nyre and Uyanwune at 689-299-2614.
St. Mark by the Sea hosts annual craft and bake sale
Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the Annual Craft and Bake Sale hosted by St. Mark by the Sea Lutheran Church, located at 303 Palm Coast Parkway NE, on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Organized by the Women of St. Mark, the sale supports local, state, and national non-profit organizations.
Attendees can find a variety of handmade crafts such as quilts, stained glass, diamond paintings, table runners, and microwave holders, as well as homemade baked goods including cookies, candies, breads and muffins.
Other items available include furniture and a boxed electric child-size toy car. Cash and credit cards will be accepted.
The event provides an opportunity for the community to support charitable causes while browsing handmade items and baked goods.
Methodist churches unite to serve Thanksgiving
Three local Methodist congregations recently teamed up to provide hot Thanksgiving meals at one shared location, offering support to residents experiencing food insecurity during the holiday season.
First United Methodist Church of Bunnell, First AME Church of Palm Coast, and Palm Coast United Methodist Church combined their volunteers and resources to host the community meal.
The initiative was organized in partnership with Grace Tabernacle Ministries under the leadership of Pastor
Charles Silano, who also directs the Grace Community Food Pantry. In addition to the prepared Thanksgiving meals, the pantry distributed 818 food boxes, including 700 turkeys, for families to cook at home. The coordinated effort helped ensure that households throughout the area had access to both festive meals and essential groceries for the holiday.
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton announces roof repairs
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church has launched a capital campaign to address major infrastructure needs, including extensive roof repairs and the expansion of the parish columbarium, the sacred space used for the interment of cremated remains. The initiative is intended to maintain the safety and functionality of the church while accommodating a growing faith community. The project will focus on restoring aging structures and expanding facilities to better serve parishioners and visitors. As part of the campaign, the parish is coordinating events and initiatives to engage the community in supporting the necessary improvements.
The columbarium expansion will provide additional space for interment, while the roof repairs are expected to prevent further deterioration and ensure the long-term integrity of the building. The campaign reflects an ongoing commitment to preserving the parish’s sacred spaces and supporting the needs of the local faith community for years to come. Send your faithrelated news to alexis@ observerlocalnews.com.
Elijah Nyre and Chinaza Uyanwune Photo by Brian McMillan
Stephenson, Wilcox and Associates
Turkey Run: past, present and future
Founder Stu Sarjeant wants to include the next generation — even if they’re not into hot rods.
BRIAN MCMILLAN PUBLISHER
Now 80 years old, Stuart Sarjeant has a little secret.
While he is the founder of the Daytona Turkey Run event, a national hot rod phenomenon, he no longer drives a hot rod. Not even close.
“I drive an electric vehicle,” he said. “I have a Tesla, and I have a Rivian. Some of my friends have given me the evil eye.”
He added, to maintain his reputation: “I still have a ’69 Camaro that fire breathes and burns tires.”
Now in its 52nd year, the Daytona Turkey Run was expected to bring 200,000 hot rod fans to the Daytona International Speedway over the Thanksgiving weekend.
Sarjeant’s son was there, too — the same son who, as a boy, convinced his father to start it.
The origin story begins in 1973, when the Ormond Beach Gaslight Parade was about 14 years old. The Sarjeants admired the parade, and they wanted to participate, so they got in line, hoping to show off their 1923 Ford T-Bucket.
When the Sarjeants arrived, however, a zealous volunteer from the Jaycees ran up to them and, “literally screaming,” as Sarjeant remembers it, said, “‘Get that hot rod out of here! You can’t put that in here — that’s junk!’”
The parade, as it turned out, was only for “classic” cars. No modified, custom or hot rods.
(This year, the 67th annual Gaslight Parade was run by the Volusia Region Antique Automobile Club of America, featuring vehicles from the year 2000 and older, and the rules remain the same.)
The Sarjeants backed up, got out of line, and drove back to their home, on Tomoka Farms Road. Sarjeant remembers his young son, bundled up in the cold wind in the T Bucket, crying the whole way home. When they arrived, he asked his father, “Can we have our own parade next year?”
He got his wish. The next
year, 1974, they gathered 45 hot rods from car clubs for a show — the Fun Rally — the Saturday after Thanksgiving, at a Howard Johnson hotel in Ormond Beach. They had a hot dog roast that night in the parking lot.
In subsequent years, it grew to 130 vehicles, then 900. It changed its name to the Turkey Rod Run, and then just the Turkey Run, and finally moved to the Daytona International Speedway. This year, the event featured about 7,000 cars for show or sale.
‘A FAMILY REUNION’
At the Turkey Run about 10 years ago, a raffle ticket was drawn with a handwritten message on the back. As WJBJ disc jockey Jennifer Johnston remembers it being announced on the air, on the back of the ticket was a message that mentioned a woman’s name and read: “Will you marry me?”
From the crowd, gathered in folding chairs on a portion of the infield of the Daytona International Speedway, the woman screamed. Her boyfriend, Pat, was sitting next to her, and she said yes; they ended up getting married.
Johnston and her husband, Butch Johnston, of Eustis, have been going to the Turkey Run to broadcast tunes on WJBJ for 27 years, and they meet a lot of the same people every year, including this couple. So she recalls Pat, who is from Long Island, being asked, “Why didn’t you propose earlier?”
“He said, ‘I have been,’” Johnston recalled. “‘I’ve been writing that note on my ticket for eight years.’ And it was the eighth ticket that was pulled.”
Johnston doesn’t remember what prize Pat won with his ticket that year, but, of course, the true prize for him was his wife.
Jennifer Johnston said the Turkey Run has the feel of “a family reunion” because so many people have made it part of their Thanksgiving tradition and come every year to share their love of cars.
Some of the news from this “family reunion” is sad: Last year, Pat’s wife died, the Johnstons learned. But, he came again to the Turkey Run again anyway.
“I saw him yesterday,” Butch Johnston said.
Turkey Run because she can meet people from all over the country and hear their stories. The best part, though, is knowing what the Street Rods club does for local charities through its raffles. A Flagler Palm Coast High School student received a scholarship from the club in a recent year, she said.
THE LOVE OF CARS
Another family, from Palm Coast, was volunteering at a tent near the WJBJ trailer, where raffle tickets were being sold. Pete Cavaliere has been a member of the Daytona Beach Street Rods for 26 years and has come to the Turkey Run each year.
“The cars, the camaraderie,” Cavaliere said, “the love of cars draws us all together. … My father was a car guy, and I caught the bug from him.” Cavaliere currently owns a 2022 Ford Mustang GT — the seventh Mustang he has owned. His first was a 1968 Fastback, which he bought for $2,800, right after he got out of the Army, in 1968. Today, the same car could be worth over $100,000, he said.
Pete’s wife, Sandy, admitted with a laugh that she prefers “comfortable, new cars” over old cars. But she loves the
Joining the Cavalieres at the event, on Nov. 28, was their grandson Samuel, a Matanzas High School student. At 15 years old, he can’t drive yet, so he’s an honorary member of the club.
“It helps me connect with my grandparents,” he said.
A SPIRIT OF INCLUSIVITY
The Turkey Run has grown, in part, thanks to Sarjeant’s philosophy of inclusivity. Vendors were invited in the early days, and other clubs were invited. Today, there is a small, full-time, year-round staff, including Gregg Pellicer and Marketing Director James Richards, of Palm Coast. Richards said there are close to 250 golf carts active throughout the Turkey Run, to go along with 2,500 vendors.
Celebrity mechanic Derek Drinkwater and the social media influencer Giuseppe, of
Giuseppe’s Garage, have been recent attendees.
This year, Sarjeant has been thinking about the future.
Does the next generation still care about hot rods? He believes there’s more interest in tilted wheels and exterior modifications to Korean or Japanese cars, and less interest in engines and horsepower.
“It’s a totally different crowd,” he said.
Is that crowd the future of the Turkey Run?
“It has to be,” Sarjeant said enthusiastically.
He doesn’t see the next generation as one to exclude, but to include. That’s the spirit that started the Turkey Run in the first place.
Sandy and Pete Cavaliere, with their grandson Samuel Cavaliere, all of Palm Coast. Photos by Brian McMillan
Cathy Sarjeant with her father, Turkey Run founder Stuart Sarjeant. Cathy said she has never had a traditional Thanksgiving dinner on Thanksgiving — usually just a sandwich while working the event.
Daytona Turkey Run Marketing Director James Richard, of Palm Coast, with Patti Jeffries.
Over 7,000 cars were for show or sale at the 52nd annual Daytona Turkey Run.
Caleb Chesley, of Daytona Beach, and Ben Parsons, of Palm Coast, helped with a youth fundraiser for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
About 200,000 attendees were anticipated at the 52nd annual Daytona Turkey Run.
Among thousands of cars and trucks on display was this wooden truck, which took 3,0000 hours to build, over nine years.
Flagler Free Clinic receives $400,000 gift as it celebrates 20 years of care
Volunteers were recognized at ‘Evening of Gratitude’ Nov. 15.
CINDY DALECKI
MARKETING 2 GO
The Flagler Free Clinic, which provides free health care to uninsured residents of Flagler and Volusia counties, has received a $400,000 bequest from the estate of Mr. Florence, representing 30% of his estate. The announcement was made Saturday, Nov. 15, as the clinic hosted its 20th anniversary “Evening of Gratitude,” at Grand Haven Clubhouse in Palm Coast.
The gift will serve as seed money toward a future permanent home for the clinic and will help launch its capital campaign. The organization currently pays approximately $50,000 per year in rent, at 700 E. Moody Blvd., in Bunnell.
During the program, volunteer Janet Powell was recognized for beginning her service with the clinic in 2005. Known for her kindness and steady presence, Powell is now retired but continues to recruit new volunteers and advocate for the clinic’s mission.
The clinic also honored front desk volunteer Margaret Chodosh and Dr. Lance Chodosh, who received the 2025 Canakaris-Coleman Dedication to Volunteerism Award. The award is named for the clinic’s founders, Dr. John Canakaris, Flagler County’s first physician in the late 1940s, and Faith Coleman, ARNP. Rosario Aseniero Alfonso, patient services director for the past eight years, was recognized. Colleagues noted that she knows nearly every patient by name and is often the first friendly face new patients meet as she helps them complete applications and navigate services.
Dr. Don Alfonso was honored for being the clinic’s first volunteer provider. He served patients for 20 years before retiring from his volunteer
role last year.
Maria Thomas, the clinic’s social worker, was thanked for three years of service.
The clinic’s newest administrative assistant, Mary Darlington, was also recognized.
AdventHealth was thanked for providing unlimited imaging services to Flagler County Free Clinic patients, expanding access to diagnostic care that many could not otherwise afford. Flagler County Human Services was recognized for collaborating with the clinic to connect patients with a full suite of additional services and resources.
In a separate luncheon recently, Dr. Manuel Frankel, DDS, and his wife and assistant, Paula Frankel, were presented with the CanakarisColeman Volunteer of the Year Award.
“Dr. Manny and Paula Frankel exemplify the spirit of service that our founders envisioned,” Belletto said. “Their dedication to providing dental care to our patients has been transformational for our community.”
The luncheon also celebrated high school volunteer Aasi Bharucha. Over the past two years, Bharucha has volunteered every weekend and dedicated her entire summer to serving patients at the clinic before returning to school.
“Aasi’s dedication is truly inspiring,” Belletto said. “Her commitment to serving others while pursuing her dream of becoming a physician shows the incredible impact young volunteers can have on their community.”
Volunteers across all service levels were recognized with commemorative pins.
Twenty-year veterans Dr. Jane Walter, Dr. Mark Kennedy and RN Hazel Deveaux lead the clinic’s most seasoned volunteers, joined by 18-year volunteer Dr. Ruben Sierra and 16-year volunteer Pat Prill. Long-term volunteers with 10 or more years of service include Belletto (11 years), Dr. Chiamaka Iheme, Dr. Martin Pourkesali, APRN Adrienne Murbarak and RN Sue Osmond (all 10 years).
New volunteers welcomed in 2025 include Dr. Alexa Stylianakis, Dr. Vijay Jain, Britta Hoffman, Julie Coolidge and Meghan Klumpp.
Another event held in celebration of the 20-year anniversary was a charity golf tournament on Nov. 3 at Ocean Hammock Golf Course, which raised $50,000 to support clinic operations.
Trembley.
The Evening of Gratitude also included a special moment of recognition for donor and board member Mr. Jack Leckie.
The tournament and the postevent luncheon were planned by longtime clinic supporters Dr. Shinoo Wainganker, an orthopedic volunteer at the clinic for 11years, along with Frank Petruno and Tony
A close friend and golf buddy of the late Dr. John Canakaris, Jack was introduced to the mission and heart of the clinic through Dr. John and quickly became one of its most loyal supporters. When he learned the clinic was launching its dental program, Jack made a substantial gift to purchase a brand-new dental chair, helping to open the clinic’s dental services and expand care to patients who had nowhere else to turn.
“For 20 years, the Flagler Free Clinic has been a safe-
ty net for those who have nowhere else to turn,” Belletto said. “This anniversary is not just about our organization — it’s about every volunteer, donor, partner and supporter who has helped keep our doors open and our services available to the community.”
Since its founding, the Flagler Free Clinic has provided
YOUR TOWN
Sea Turtle Coloring Contest awards presented at library
Sea Turtle Rescue Team
members Mary Susan Hultay and Cynthia Weston held a Sea Turtle Photo Coloring Contest for children with support from the Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach, Florida. Awards were presented on Nov. 15 at the Flagler County Public Library — Palm Coast.
The winner, Maximillian Kajewski, received a Sea Turtle Adoption Certificate from the Loggerhead Marinelife Center.
Other winners were Landon Earnshaw (second place), Emma Gregondy (third place), Emma McFedden (fourth place) and Charlie Serrano and Indigo Vasquez (fifth place). All the winners received turtle magnets and bracelets, crayon packs, lollipops and sea turtle-related baseball caps.
Honorable mention recipients were Rhoades Christopher, Rhea Davison, Bailey McFedden, Caroline Pavlova in group one and Harbor Lou Christopher, Ahro Taylor Maldonada, Sol Taylor Maldonada and Trent Geiger in group two. Send news tips to brent@ observerlocalnews.com.
Sea turtle photo coloring contest winners, from left: Emma Gregondy (third place), Landon Ernshaw (second), Maximillian Kajeski (first), Emma McFedden (fourth), Charlie Serrano (fifth) and coordinator Mary Susan Hultay. Courtesy photo
free medical care, medications and support services to uninsured adults in Flagler County, relying on donations, grants and volunteer support rather than patient fees. The clinic’s board and staff said continued community support will be essential as they look ahead to the next 20 years of service.
Left: Rosario Alfonso, Mardy Donasco, Maya Tan, Phyllis VanReeth, Mary Darlington, Larice Tan. Below: Dave Hause, Ed Samuels, Terri Belletto, Bruce Gough.
Terri Belletto, Laurie Harrison, Maria Thomas and Mary Darlington.
Dr. Mark Kennedy and Sharon Atack.
Aasi Bharucha
AJ Belletto, Dr. Richard and Maria Smith
Above left: Danielle Clymer, Robert Daren, Dr. Patricia Biert-Daren, Robert Daren, Marcelle Miller. Photos courtesy of Cindy Dalecki
‘We knew it was going to be a dog fight’
CONTRIBUTING
Heart, dedication and discipline.
Mainland head coach Jerrime “Squatty” Bell said that is what got the Bucs to the Region 1-5A final against the
on Friday, Nov. 28. The Sharks will face Lakeland in the Class 5A state semifinals on Dec. 5. Bell talked to his players following the loss. He said
people did not expect Mainland to be “worth a darn” this year following its 5-6 record last season, but the Bucs persevered and finished 9-3.
“It’s playoff time — there’s got to be a winner, there’s got to be the loser,” he said. “We didn’t play our best. I’m not going to talk about tonight. I’m going to talk about the journey that we took. You started at the Kickoff Classic against a top five team in the state, at the time, down 14-13 and came back and won. You kept building from there.”
Mainland quarterback Sebastian Johnson completed 24 of 42 passes for 328 yards. Ponte Vedra quarterback Cole Rosendahl passed for 239 yards. Even though Mainland accumulated more yards on offense, 402 to 357, Ponte Vedra was able to capitalize on Mainland turnovers — three lost fumbles recoveries and two interceptions.
“It was just an off night for us,” Bell said. “We never really, truly got a rhythm, even though we probably had over 400 yards offense. It just never felt like we were really into the game. With Juice (Braylyn Simmons), Sebastian and our
receivers, we never got on the same page all night long.”
The first quarter set the tone with a fumbled handoff by the Bucs that was recovered by Ponte Vedra linebacker Bennett Baumgartner. A punt fake and subsequent pass from Sam Cote to Alex Winkles led to a first down followed by Winkles’ touchdown run.
Bell said he and his coaches had scouted Ponte Vedra well and knew there would be areas of their game they could take advantage of. On the first drive, they utilized that knowledge but eventually turned the ball over.
“We knew it was going to be a dog fight,” he said. “They were exactly who we thought they were, but they played mistake-free football and we picked the wrong night to play our ‘C’ game.”
Kicker David Aponte put the Bucs on the board with a field goal in the second quarter. Ponte Vedra kicker Noah Ash matched those points that quarter and also had four touchbacks in the game. Rosendahl and Jack Berquist scored the final two touchdowns for the Sharks. Jaden “Melo” Parks caught a pass in the fourth quarter for the only Bucs touchdown.
Bell’s second year at the helm of Mainland football proved to be a successful one with a season record reflecting his seniors’ commitment to the program, resulting in a deeper playoff run. Last year, the Bucs were eliminated in the first round with a 21-0 loss to Tallahassee Lincoln. This year, the Bucs had a 34-13 first-round win against Middleburg and a 36-31 win over Lynn Haven Mosley in the regional semfinals.
Before the start of the season, the seniors bonded with a goal in mind to change the program and put it back on the right trajectory. Bell said they did just that and added some big wins along the way — a win against perennial power Cocoa on Aug. 29, a win
All-American at middle school nationals Eighth grader Avery Wisniewski of the Imagine School at Town Center club team earned All-American honors at the Middle School Cross Country Nationals on Nov. 16 in Louisville, Kentucky. Nine members of the Imagine School team participated. Wisniewski placed 22nd out of 289 runners in the 4-kilometer championship race with a time of 15:22 in windy
conditions. The top 25 receive All-American honors. Runners were also scored by state. Wisniewski placed fourth
among Florida runners. Imagine School’s No. 2 runner was fifth grader Aspen Lester, who placed 105th
against Kissimmee Osceola, ranked top 12 in the state at the time, and a win at Georgia state power Coffee.
“When you mention 2025 Mainland High School football, people need to respect the fact that these guys are winners, and they did it their way,” Bell said.
Seniors led the team not only with leadership skills but also top team performances. Johnson wrapped up the season with 2,872 yards passing and 2,979 total yards. Middle linebacker Dennis “Tank” King III completed the season with 78 solo tackles, 39 assists, two interceptions and one sack, while defensive back Jhavin Westbrook had three interceptions and was a major playmaker.
“They were determined to make a run, and they did it,” Bell said. “Now, we’ve got to build on that leadership that we saw from Sebastian (Johnson), Christian (Cooper) and Dennis (King) and some of the other seniors like Kiarin Sullivan and Amare Campbell. We have to build on that and make sure that all they did this year isn’t forgotten and make a deeper run next year because of the path they put us on.”
Simmons led the team with 1,129 rushing yards and 231 receiving this season. Sophomore Kadin Flores finished with 1,158 total all-purpose yards. Junior linebacker Tamaj Woodard followed King’s lead with 72 solo tackles, 36 assists and 3.5 sacks.
Bell said he will miss the smiles of his seniors but is looking forward to helping the underclassmen evolve during the offseason.
“We are going to miss those smiles more than anything else,” he said. “Those smiles make the day. They make practice go by better. Losing those smiles is going to hurt, but we’ve got some good, young leaders coming up, and I’m looking forward to seeing them smile a lot more, too.”
“When you mention 2025 Mainland High School football, people need to respect the fact that these guys are winners and they did it their way.”
with a time of 16:33. There were just five girls in the race in fourth or fifth grade, and Aspen was the first to finish. Madelyn Yorgey rounded out the team’s top three, finishing 154th in 17:12.
The Imagine School team placed 19th out of 27 middle school teams. The other girls on the team who ran in the race were Mia Moore, Hailey Brennan, Addy Saunders, Ayana Henry, Natalia Langer and Lydia Cottman.
Mile series
begins Dec. 6
The Imagine School at Town Center cross county team is hosting the annual Imagine Mile Series, a series of three 1-mile races on Dec. 6, 13 and 20 at Flagler Palm Coast High School. The races will begin at 8:30 a.m. The series is open to all children in grades 4 to 8. Each runner will run 1 mile on the track. At the last race, all runners who complete at least two of the three races will be given a finisher medal. There will be series awards for the top three runners in each grade level for both boys and girls. For more information and
The Imagine School at Town Center girls cross country team, at Middle School Nationals (from left): Avery Wisniewski, Aspen Lester, Ayana Henry, Hailey Brennan, Addy Saunders, Natalia Langer, Lydia Cottman and Madelyn Yorgey. Not pictured: Mia Moore. Courtesy photo
MICHELE MEYERS
WRITER
Ponte Vedra Sharks. Ponte Vedra ended Mainland’s season with a 27-10 win at the “Shark Tank”
Mainland wraps up playoffs with 27-10 loss to Ponte Vedra
JERRIME BELL, Mainland head football coach
Ponte Vedra’s Hudson Hauseman tackles Mainland’s Braylyn “Juice” Simmons
Mainland wide receiver Christian Cooper (left) sprints to a first down as Ponte Vedra ‘s Trey Butz (29) moves in for the tackle.
Mainland lineman Amarion Lane (right) dives on a fumble along with Ponte Vedra’s Brody McLeod (left). Photos by Michele Meyers
Paiden Hickman drops 27 points to lead Matanzas girls basketball
The freshman drained 4-of-9 shots from 3-point range in the Pirates’ home opener.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Matanzas freshman Paiden Hickman had scored a total of 22 points in her first two games. On Tuesday, Dec. 2, she poured in 27 points to lead the Pirates to a 43-22 victory over Atlantic in their home opener.
“I knew coming in she’d be a key piece for us this year,” Matanzas first-year coach Cory Curtis said. “She played (a team-high) 30 minutes tonight.”
Hickman hit 4 of 9 from behind the 3-point arc and connected on 11 of 19 field goals overall. She played varsity basketball as an eighth grader last year for First
Baptist Christian Academy, where she averaged 9.6 points per game.
“I’ve been playing basketball since I was 5 years old,” she said, adding that until this summer she mostly had been an inside player.
“I never really took (3-point) shots for my AAU teams,” she said. “This summer, I got out of the paint and started shooting. I feel more comfortable (on the perimeter).”
She is shooting 54.5% (6 of 11) from 3-point range after not attempting any 3-pointers for the Crusaders last year.
The Pirates improved to 2-1, while the Sharks fell to 2-2. Atlantic went to the free throw line 22 times, but connected on just seven free throws.
Santana Dixon led Atlantic with nine points. Senior Katelynn Smith added seven points and a team-high 12 rebounds for Matanzas.
“She’s our point forward. She makes our offense go,” Curtis said of Smith.
Smith, Ruby Fogel (nine rebounds) and Kaylina Vitt (three assists) are the only seniors on the team. The Pirates also have two juniors and eight freshmen with Hickman and 6-foot-1 freshman Kyleigh Rainey playing key roles.
“We’re looking forward to Paiden and Kyleigh sliding into leadership roles. Those girls are the future,” Curtis said.
After taking Thanksgiving week off, the Pirates had three games scheduled this week.
Matanzas hosts Seabreeze on Thrusday, Dec. 4, at 6 p.m. and then visits county rival Flagler Palm Coast on Friday, Dec. 5, at 7 p.m. FPC opened its season with a 63-13 win at Unversity on Dec. 2.
“I know FPC is going to be a tough game, but it’s not going to be like last year (when the Bulldogs won 58-31),” Curtis said.
Heather Curry, HIS
Matanzas’ Ruby Fogel goes up for a layup.
Atlantic’s Zhaveya Watson dribbles between Paiden Hickman (23) and Aurora Purdy (12). Photos by Keishia McLendon
Katelynn Smith shoots a jumper.
Matanzas’ Paiden Hickman (left) shoots over Atlantic’s Santana Dixon.
SIDELINES
USSP national championships at Pictona
The 2025 US Senior Pickleball National Championships will be held Dec. 5-8 at Pictona in Holly Hill. The tournament at the 49-court facility will have brackets for players ages 50 to 80-plus in skill divisions and age groups in five-year increments.
“US Senior Pickleball is thrilled to celebrate senior athletes by providing them the avenue to compete in their own age and skill levels in a round robin tournament that offers plenty of competition,” Karen Parrish, USSP’s events director, said in a press release.
The tournament will be preceded by a Pickleball Mindset Pro Demonstration on Dec. 3-4 featuring senior pro Dayne Gingrich and personal trainer Jill Martin. Admission to the demo is $25.
Rose leads FBCA girls to 3-0 mark
The First Baptist Christian Academy girls basketball has won its first three games of the season with seventh grader Julia “Jay” Rose averaging 32.5 points per game. Rose is leading the nation in scoring, but the minimum number of games for stat leaders at this point in the season is five games.
The Crusaders defeated Father Lopez, Halifax Academy and Forest Lake Academy. Their next game is Friday, Dec. 5, at home against Orangewood Christian.
USA BMX grands
improved to 5-1-1. They host Spruce Creek at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8.
Soccer recap: Olivia Chase scores 6 goals
Considered the pinnacle of BMX racing, the Grands had over 800 motos (race heats).
Olivia Chase scored six goals in Seabreeze’s 8-0 girls soccer victory over Mainland on Monday, Dec. 1. The senior striker is among the national leaders with 19 goals in seven games. The Sandcrabs
Victor Ortiz of Palm Coast competed in the USA BMX Grands on Nov. 27-30 at the SageNet Center In Tulsa, Oklahoma. Competing in the 56-and-over Intermediate division, Ortiz placed eighth in the Race of Champions (the ROC) and fifth in the Grand Nationals.
The Flagler Palm Coast girls team defeated New Smyrna Beach 2-1 on Dec. 2 to improve to 7-1-1. Hailey Sammons and Lauralee Macleod each scored. FPC coach Pete Hald can notch his 550th career win on Friday, Dec. 5, at home against Sandalwood. The FPC boys soccer team (4-3) fell to Taylor, 2-1, at home on Dec 1. Rami Amiri scored his sixth goal of the season for the Bulldogs. FPC was scheduled to host Sandalwood on Dec. 3.
The Matanzas boys (4-2-1) defeated Sabreeze (1-4-3), 2-1 on Dec. 2.
Palm Coast’s Victor Ortiz at USA BMX Grand Nationals in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Courtesy photo
Three Bulldog wrestlers win titles at Flagler Rotary Girls Invitational
“If you leave the state tournament with three champs, you win the state tournament. So, we left here with three champs today. Let’s leave the state tournament with three champs.”
DAVID BOSSARDET, FPC wrestling coach
FPC’s Johnson was named Outstanding Wrestler; Calidonio and Vilar also took home first-place medals.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Flagler Palm Coast wrestler
Joslyn Johnson is calling this season her “redemption year.”
The first day of the season couldn’t have been any better.
Johnson won the 105-pound weight class with four consecutive pins at the second annual Flagler Rotary Girls Wrestling Invitational on Tuesday, Nov. 25, at FPC’s main gym.
At the end of the tournament, she was presented with the invitational’s Outstanding Wrestler Award. And, ahead of the championship round, the Bulldogs honored their two seniors — Johnson and Alexa Calidonio — on Senior Night.
Johnson, Calidonio and Alisha Vilar all won first-place medals for the Bulldogs, while Juliana Mills placed third.
With only five girls on the team this season, FPC placed fifth out of 38 teams at the Flagler Rotary. Orlando Freedom, Viera, Middleburg and St. John Neumann of Naples took the top four places, respectively.
“I don’t pay attention to team scores at these tournaments,” FPC coach David
Bossardet said. “We want to win them because we’re in a competition, but if you leave the state tournament with three champs, you win the state tournament. So, we left here with three champs today. Let’s leave the state tournament with three champs.”
The Bulldogs won the inaugural Flagler Rotary Girls Invitational last year and went on to win the girls state championship. Although they graduated five wrestlers who placed first, second or third at state last season, three state qualifiers — Johnson, Calidonio and Mills — have returned.
Johnson placed third at state last season after winning the 100-pound state championship as a sophomore. She was one of three Florida wrestlers at 105 pounds last season who were nationally ranked. The others were Erin Rizzuto, who beat Johnson in the state semifinals, and Camdyn Elliott, who won the state title.
Johnson said she came into the Flagler Rotary with a different mindset.
“In other tournaments I’m kind of, ‘Just go ahead and win, go head and win,’” she said. “I think today, I had a couple of matches where I was
able to work on a couple things and just slow down and make sure I’m not getting into my head. So, it was nice to come in, especially in the environment being Senior Night, to just have a clear mind and have my family around me cheering me on.”
Rizzuto has graduated, and Elliott of Gulf Breeze has moved up in weight. She won the 115-pound title at Tuesday’s tournament. Johnson came into the tourney ranked 18th in the nation by FloWrestling. She pinned 20th-ranked Hananeel Gregoire of Freedom in the championship match in one minute, 29 seconds.
Vilar lost in the blood round in this tournament last year and also lost in the blood round at region last season.
“I am probably most pleased with what I saw out of Alisha,” Bossardet said. “Last year, she did not place at this tournament, and then this year she wins it.”
Vilar, a junior, pinned Taylor Pelchat of St. Augustine in 1:10 in the 155-pound title match.
“I’ve been working hard throughout the summer to the start of the season to get to where I am now, so I’m pretty proud,” Vilar said. “This feels like a good start, but there’s still more work to do. My goal is to place at state.”
Calidonio placed fifth at state last season. She won a 4-2 decision over Savanah Nazario-Darnell of Viera in the 170-pound final.
“I’m glad I was able to finish off good. The beginning was not going my way,” Calidonio said.
Mills, a sophomore who moved up from 100 pounds to 120 this year, won three of
four matches and automatically won the third-place match because her opponent had already wrestled the maximum six matches for the day. The Bulldogs held Senior Night at the Flagler Rotary, because it is the only time the girls team is wrestling at home this season.
Bossardet said assistant coach TJ Gillin did another great job in running the tournament, which was slightly larger than last year’s field.
“I said this last year when we started this tournament: the goal is to have the largest, toughest tournament in the state of Florida, and do it the right way by giving them a first class event, and that’s what we’re striving to do,” Bossardet said. “People talk about growing girls wrestling. But I think it should be done the right way with quality over quantity. You (should) put a product out there and put an event out there that people want to come be a part of, and people want to see. That’s what’s going to grow the sport of wrestling.”
Alexa Calidonio (right) works on a wrist-lock in the 170-pound championship match.
Joslyn Johnson pinned Hananeel Gregoire of Orlando Freedom at 1:29 in the 105-pound final.
Alisha Vilar won the 155-pound championship match. Photos by Brent Woronoff
WHERE COTTON GROWS, SHADOWS LINGER
The Sound of the Whippoorwill is a moving memoir set in the postWWII deep south. It narrates the struggles of a fourth-generation white family on a cotton farm, wrestling with hard labor, mental illness, and child abuse. The narrative also explores the complex racial dynamics between the family and their black farm workers, delineating the stark inequities of a racially segregated society. A poignant exploration of resilience and the human spirit, it offers a profound reflection on cultural and social issues.
Paperback ISBN: 9798822984417
Mainland’s season ends
Christmas
Mainland wide receiver Chris Butler (7) runs between two Sharks for a first down
Above: Mainland quarterback Sebastian Johnson (10) passes under pressure. Left: Ponte Vedra’s Fionn Day (left) and Talan Baban tackle Mainland receiver Kadin Flores (15). Photos by Michele Meyers
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Housekeeping
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FIRST INSERTION
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS after the date of the first publication of this notice.
Barred Claims: ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702, FLORIDA STATUTES, WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
This notice is published in accordance with the provisions of the Florida Probate Rules and Florida Statutes Section 733.2121.
The date of first publication of this notice is December 4, 2025. Signed on this 25th day of November, 2025.
date of the first publication of this notice, or 2. 30 days after the date of service of a copy of this notice on them. The Personal Representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s
specified under Section 732.2211, Florida Statutes.
MICHAEL JOSEPH CATENA, Personal Representative 576 Union Avenue, Belleville, New Jersey 07109
CORONADO LAW GROUP, PLLC /s/ Kenneth Bohannon. Esq. Kenneth Bohannon, Esquire Florida Bar #0027500 221 N. Causeway, Suite A New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169-5239
Phone: 386-427-5227
Facsimile: 386-423-3909
Primary Email: KBohannon@CFLLawyer.com
Secondary Email: Eservice@CFLLawyer.com
Attorney for Personal Representative December 4, 11, 2025 25-00296G
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDAPROBATE DIVISION File No. 2025 CP 000684 Division 48 IN RE: ESTATE OF WILLIAM J. MCADAMS JR. AKA WILLIAM J. MCADAMS Deceased. The ancillary administration of the estate of WILLIAM J. MCADAMS JR., AKA WILLIAM J. MCADAMS, deceased, whose date of death was May 10, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for FLAGLER County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Kim C. Hammond Justice Center, 1769 E Moody Blvd #5 Building #1, Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. 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
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 December 4, 2025. Personal Representative: /s/ Donald McAdams DONALD MCADAMS 20 VESPER AVENUE
FALMOUTH, MA 02540
Attorney for Personal Representative: /s/ Robert E. Bone Jr. ROBERT E. BONE JR.
Attorney Florida Bar Number: 0848026
ROBERT E BONE JR., P.A. POST OFFICE BOX 895129
LEESBURG, FL 34789
Telephone: (352) 315-0051
Fax: (352) 326-0049
E-Mail: service@thebonelawfirm.com
Secondary E-Mail: rbone@thebonelawfirm.com
December 4, 11, 2025 25-00297G
Attorney for Personal Representative: Diane A. Vidal
Attorney Florida Bar Number: 1008324
CHIUMENTO LAW 145 City Place, Suite 301 Palm Coast, FL 32164 Telephone: (386) 445-8900
Fax: (386) 445-6702
E-Mail: DVidal@legalteamforlife.com
Secondary E-Mail: Proserv@legalteamforlife.com December 4, 11, 2025 25-00299G
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2025 CP 651 Division 48 IN RE: ESTATE OF JOHN J. DESMOND Deceased. The administration of the estate of John J. Desmond, deceased, whose date of death was August 26, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 East Moody Blvd., Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is December 4, 2025. Personal Representative: Nisley F. Desmond 4 Curry Court Palm Coast, Florida 32137
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2025 CP 734 Division 48 IN RE: ESTATE OF JORGE ISMAEL SALINAS CABAN
Deceased. The administration of the estate of Jorge Ismael Salinas Caban, deceased, whose date of death was October 4, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 East Moody Blvd., Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty
to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL
IN THE PROPERTY HEREIN DESCRIBED, Defendant(s). TO: STEFANIE ROLAND Last Known Address 103 RAEBURN WAY ANDERSON, SC 29621 Current Residence is Unknown YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a mortgage on the following described property in Flagler County, Florida: LOT 3, BLOCK 11, ROYAL PALMS - SECTION 33 - PALM COAST, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 10, PAGE 67, OF THE PUBLIC RE-
Email your Legal Notice legal@palmcoastobserver.com legal@observerlocalnews.com
SUBSEQUENT INSERTIONS
FOURTH INSERTION
NOTICE OF SUSPENSION
To: Kenyanna L. Stubblefield Case No: CD202509671/D 3529772
CORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Diaz Anselmo & Associates, P.A., Plaintiff’s attorneys, whose address is P.O. BOX 19519, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33318, (954) 564-0071, answers@dallegal.com, within 30 days from first date of publication, and file the original with the Clerk of this Court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorneys or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, persons needing special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Clerk of the Court not later than five business days prior to the proceeding at the Flagler County Courthouse. Telephone 904-437-7430 or 1-800-955-8770 via Florida Relay Service. DATED on 11/13/2025. Tom Bexley As Clerk of the Court By: (SEAL) Amy Perez As Deputy Clerk Diaz Anselmo & Associates, P.A. Plaintiff’s attorneys P.O. BOX 19519 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33318 (954) 564-0071 answers@dallegal.com 1463-214722 / ME2 December 4, 11, 2025 25-00302G Visit Observerlocalnews. com/tributes to submit your tribute
A Notice of Suspension to suspend your license(s) and eligibility for licensure has been filed against you. You have the right to request a hearing pursuant to Sections 120.569 and 120.57, Florida Statutes, by mailing a request for same to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Licensing, Post Office Box 5708, Tallahassee, Florida 323145708. If a request for hearing is not received by 21 days from the date of the last publication, the right to hearing in this matter will be waived and the Department will dispose of this cause in accordance with law. Nov. 13, 20, 27; Dec. 4, 2025 25-00283G
SECOND INSERTION NOTICE OF ACTION; CONSTRUCTIVE SERVICEPROPERTY IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, CIVIL DIVISION CASE NO.:2025 CA 000462
CALCON MUTUAL MORTGAGE LLC
DBA ONETRUST HOME LOANS, Plaintiff, vs. THOMAS RICHARD MARLETTE; et al Defendants. TO: THOMAS RICHARD MARLETTE; 5 LAUREL DR E PALM COAST, FL 32137
KIMBERLY ANN MARLETTE; 5 LAUREL DR E PALM COAST, FL 32137
YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose to the following property in Flagler County, Florida: LOT 15, ARMAND BEACH EAST, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT
THEREOF, RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 8, PAGE 21, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA.
NOTICE OF ACTIONCONSTRUCTIVE SERVICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 2025 CA 000638 GS MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES TRUST 2020-RPL2 Plaintiff, vs. THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHERS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF ELIZABETH L. JACOB, DECEASED. et. al. Defendant(s), TO: THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHERS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF ELIZABETH L. JACOB, DECEASED, whose residence is unknown if he/she/they be living; and if he/she/they be dead, the unknown defendants who may be spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, assignees, lienors, creditors, trustees, and all parties claiming an interest by, through, under or against the Defendants, who are not known to be dead or alive, and all parties having or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property described in the mortgage being foreclosed herein. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a mortgage on the fol-
Also known as 9 SWEETBAY DR, PALM COAST, FL
lowing property: ALL THAT CERTAIN LAND IN FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA, TO-WIT:LOT(S) 52, BLOCK 16 OF PALM COAST, MAP OF FLORIDA PARK, PHASE 1 AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 5, PAGE 91, ETSEQ., OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on counsel for Plaintiff, whose address is 6409 Congress Ave., Suite 100, Boca Raton, Florida 33487 on or before 30 days from the first publication / (30 days from Date of First Publication of this Notice) and file the original with the clerk of this court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition filed herein. THIS NOTICE SHALL BE PUBLISHED ONCE A WEEK FOR TWO (2)
