Flagler sheriff helps drive new law targeting crypto ATM fraud
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office is applauding a new Florida law cracking down on cryptocurrency kiosk scams after Sheriff Rick Staly personally raised the issue with state lawmakers and helped shape the legislation.
House Bill 505 takes effect on Jan. 1, 2027, and requires cryptocurrency kiosk operators statewide to register with the Florida Office of Financial Regulation, post clear fraud warnings on kiosk screens, and use blockchain analytics to block transfers to wallets tied to known criminal activity. The law also caps daily transactions at $2,000 for new customers and $10,000 for existing customers, requires a printed or digital receipt for every transaction, and requires kiosk operators to refund a customer’s first fraudulent transaction within 72 hours of a timely report.
Sheriff Staly began pushing for the regulations in 2025 for crypto ATM’s after FCSO’s Cyber Crimes Unit identified the issues with unregulated kiosk transactions and the difficulty in tracking the crypto currency using blockchain technology and crypto wallets. The new law now closes many of these loopholes and warns people they may be the victim of fraud.
Sheriff Staly directed FCSO’s general counsel to research the legislation being used in other states and draft a legislative proposal. Staly then brought the proposal to the Florida Sheriffs Association Legislative Committee and spoke to state lawmakers on the need for crypto ATM regulation, just like the
existing bank ATM regulations. Legislators built on that groundwork with House Bill 505, which passed the Florida House 107-0, which Governor DeSantis signed into law on June 26.
The new law enacts mandatory registration for every kiosk operator in Florida, upfront fraud warnings, blockchain analytics that block transfers to known criminal wallets, daily transaction limits, and a guaranteed refund for victims within 72 hours of a timely fraud report.
“This is a huge win for Flagler County and Florida, especially for our seniors who often fall prey to these scammers,” Staly said. “Crypto kiosk scammers have stolen millions from Floridians. This law finally holds these kiosk operators accountable and gives victims a real path to get their money back. While we didn’t get everything we asked for, this is a great start and gives our Cyber Crimes Unit detective the tools they need.”
In the past two years, unregulated crypto kiosks have been used to facilitate more than $2.75 million in fraudulent transfers from Flagler County residents, most of it stolen from retirees and senior citizens. The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office urges Flagler Residents who believe they’ve been the target of a crypto kiosk scam to contact the non-emergency line at 386-313-4911.
13-year-old arrested after sending gun photos, threats
According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, deputies arrested a 13-year-old after he threatened to kill another teen and sent him photos of a firearm over Instagram.
FCSO deputies began investigating the incident on July
7 after the victim’s mother called 911 to report the threat.
The victim, also 13, received several Instagram messages earlier in the day from the suspect, including a photo of the suspect holding a handgun and a written message that read, “Tn 8:00 pm we be there we alr got lo,” which investigators said translates to, “Tonight 8:00 pm we be there we already got location.”
The victim told deputies he believed the suspect planned to show up at his home and shoot him at 8 p.m. that night.
The suspect later told deputies that he and the victim used to be friends but had a falling out. He also said he had messaged the victim that day and that they were planning to fight.
“Threats are no joke, and we take every threat seriously. This teen had already made plans to fight the victim, and he made it clear it wasn’t going to be a fistfight,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “I want to remind parents to stay engaged in what their kids are doing online and who they’re talking to. Teach them the proper way of handling disagreements and be the Sheriff of your home.”
Investigation into 2025 Palm Coast shooting ends with two arrests
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office has concluded its investigation into a November 2025 shooting that occurred at a Palm Coast apartment complex. The investigation resulted in two arrests.
On Nov. 16, 2025, the FCSO Major Case Unit responded to investigate a shooting at an apartment complex on Beach Village Circle in which two people — Micah McGill, then17, and Tyree Smith, then-22 — sustained non-life-threatening gunshot wounds. The shooting happened during an altercation that followed a do-
mestic disturbance between Smith and a family member of McGill’s.
During the investigation, detectives interviewed all parties involved to determine how the shooting occurred. McGill and Smith provided detectives with conflicting accounts of what happened. Additionally, McGill changed his statement, first telling detectives that he grabbed the gun before the encounter, then later stating that he had wrestled the gun from Smith.
At the conclusion of interviews and using evidence obtained during a search warrant with evidence collected by FCSO’s Crime Scene Investigation Unit, detectives determined that McGill shot Smith, then accidentally shot himself during the altercation.
During the initial investigation, detectives obtained a warrant for Smith’s arrest for battery from the domestic disturbance that preceded the shooting and arrested him on Nov. 18, 2025.
Detectives also determined McGill had an extensive juvenile criminal history and had been previously adjudicated a delinquent, making it a felony for him to possess a firearm.
Based on the FCSO investigation, the State Attorney’s Office requested a capias on McGill for aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, possession of a firearm by a delinquent, and shooting into a building. On June 4, the capias was approved and issued by Circuit Judge Dawn Nichols.
On July 7, the FCSO Fugitive Apprehension Unit located McGill, now 18, at a residence on Ripplet Place in Palm Coast and he was arrested without incident.
“This investigation was a lot more complicated than it needed to be and took a lot longer than it needed because the people involved did not want to be cooperative or be truthful how this shooting occurred,” said Sheriff Rick
COPS CORNER
JULY 5
ORDER CANCELED
2:26 p.m. — 1400 block of West Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach Battery touch or strike.An UberEats customer was left waiting for his order after his delivery driver got into an altercation with a restaurant manager, who believed he was stealing the food.
According to a police report, when the delivery driver arrived at the restaurant to pick up the order, the restaurant manager asked him to verify the order before leaving with the food. The two men each told a different story to police: The delivery driver said he attempted to show he was responsible for the order, but was disre-
Staly. “Despite their attempts to cover up the incident, our Major Case Unit continued to investigate until the truth was proven and an arrest was made. I commend everyone involved for their perseverance during this investigation.”
McGill was transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, where he is being held on a $105,000 bond.
Smith, now 23, later entered into a deferred prosecution agreement with the State Attorney’s Office, which included the completion of an anger management course. Upon completion of the deferred prosecution agreement in March, the battery charge was dismissed by the State Attorney’s Office.
FCSO: Daytona man charged after alleged threats against DCF caseworker
According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, a Daytona Beach man has been arrested for allegedly threatening to kill a Florida Department of Children and Families caseworker, closing a year-long, multi-agency investigation into threats made against a Flagler County public servant.
According to FCSO, in July 2025, the caseworker reported receiving a series of threatening messages from an unknown number. In one message, the sender allegedly claimed to have an AR-15 rifle ready for her and warned that she would never see her family again.
FCSO said detectives coordinated with Department of Children and Families staff, Volusia County Probation and the Oregon Fusion Center to trace the messages and determine their source. The sender was identified as Tyler William Stinnett, 30,
garded by the manager, and the manager said the delivery driver ignored his request and grabbed the order from the counter.
The manager and another restaurant employee followed him outside, at which point they claimed the delivery driver “swung his hands” at the manager. The manager got the order back and went back inside. The delivery driver told police that as the manager took the food back, he injured his shoulder. He requested transport to the hospital.
Both men wanted to pursue charges.
JULY 6
LAUNDERING FAKE MONEY
10:38 a.m. — 300 block of Warwick Avenue, Ormond Beach Criminal mischief.A 65-yearold Bunnell man called police after Airbnb guests left counterfeit money and vandalized the property, causing about
of Daytona Beach, who was allegedly upset over a childwelfare case and had sent similar threatening messages using spoofed phone numbers to other DCF employees and a judge. According to FCSO, Stinnett was arrested in February by Volusia County detectives in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and later extradited to Volusia County, where he faces a dozen charges related to similar alleged threats against other government employees. After completing the Flagler County investigation, FCSO said the State Attorney’s Office issued a capias for Stinnett on a charge of written threats to kill, do bodily injury, or conduct a mass shooting or an act of terrorism. According to the Sheriff’s Office, he was served with the charge on July 8 at the Volusia County Jail, where he was already being held on similar charges. Stinnett remains held at the jail without bond. His bond on the Flagler County charge is set at $10,000.
Overnight closures for
Ormond Beach southbound I-95/ U.S. 1 off ramp
The Florida Department of Transportation is implementing overnight closures from southbound Interstate 95 off ramp to U.S. 1 in Ormond Beach on July 19, ending the morning of Tuesday, July 21. Detour information: Motorists heading southbound on I-95 wanting to reach U.S. 1 should instead take Exit 278 for Old Dixie Highway and continue west for approximately 2.3 miles. At the roundabout, take the third exit to access southbound U.S. 1 and travel south on U.S. 1 for about 6.3 miles to reach the I-95 interchange. Visit www.cflroads.com/ project/419772-3.
$300 in damages. The guests had reserved the vacation rental until July 4, but overstayed, according to a police report. When the property owner came by the house to check it out, he noticed several items were damaged — a closet door, a door lock, the door to the garage and the fence gate, which appeared to have been chewed by a dog. He then found the counterfeit money on the top shelf of a closet. He later found another fake bill ripped up in a toilet. Additionally, the property owner said that his cameras showed multiple people coming in and out of the house with several suitcases. He told police he believed the guests were “conducting an abnormal amount of laundry,” approximately 16-17 loads. The property owner wished to press charges.
JULY 10 CRASH, FLEE, THEN DENY 11:42 p.m. — Evolve Parkway, Palm Coast DUI. A Palm Coast woman was arrested after deputies say she crashed her car into a garage, fled the scene on foot and was later found walking along U.S. 1 while intoxicated. According to the arrest report, deputies responded to an apartment complex on Evolve Parkway after receiving a report of a vehicle crashing into a closed garage. Witnesses told deputies the driver left the scene, parked elsewhere in the complex and ran into nearby woods. One said he watched the woman drive around the parking lot screaming before crashing into the garage and fleeing. Another witness captured the incident on cellphone video. Deputies later located the 35-year-old woman walk-
Report from Tallahassee
Sen. Leek: Amendment 3 should have been focused on spending. Rep. Greco said state should make sure voucher money is well spent.
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Elected officials and local community and business leaders attended the 2026 Legislative Update to hear reports from Flagler County’s local state legislators, Sen. Tom Leek and Rep. Sam Greco.
There were also a couple of elephants in the room — state issues that have taken center stage this election year — at the event, hosted by the Palm Coast-Flagler Regional Chamber of Commerce on July 9 at the Hammock Dunes Club.
Leek, who spoke first before having to leave for another engagement, was asked about Florida Amendment 3, which will appear on the general election ballot in November. If it passes, with 60% of the vote, it will increase homestead tax exemptions to $250,000 over the next two years and limit how counties and municipalities can spend property tax revenue.
Greco was asked about school vouchers, which redirect public school tax dollars to families who choose private or home-school options
Leek said he is conflicted about the property tax amendment. He said there should have been a better product presented to voters. Property taxes have gotten out of control and growth in local government spending has become “insane,” he said. But rather than focusing on an increase in the homestead exemption, the focus should be on spending, Leek said.
“If you address a single revenue source, you’re going to be playing Whack-a-Mole,” Leek said. “We’ve got an entire budget for years built on this revenue source.”
If Amendment 3 passes, there will be spending cuts, Leek said, but not enough to make up the deficit. As a result, he said, there will be a fee shift.
“Will it help folks that you’re trying to help? Absolutely. Will it shift the burden to properties that are higher valued? Absolutely. Will there be new fees, I don’t see how there won’t,” he said.
Leek’s proposal would limit local spending growth in accordance to a city or county’s population growth, adjusting for inflation, following the Colorado model.
Leek asked for a show of hands for who will vote for the amendment, who will vote against it and who has not decided yet. While there were more people in the room who indicated they will vote against it than for it, a key
Legislative summaries
Provided by Sen. Tom Leek and Rep. Sam Greco
APPROPRIATIONS
Rep. Sam Greco, District 19
$500,000: Flagler County Animal Shelter
$1.5 million: Flagler Beach
Wastewater improvements
$2.6 million: Flagler County Black Branch North Drainage System Project
$548,000: Flagler County
— Disaster Resilience Staging
Sites
$1.5 million: SMA Health Care – Flagler County central receiving facility
$300,000: Burroughs Drive
Stormwater Park
Sen. Tom Leek, District 7
$1.5 million: Flagler Beach
“Will it help folks that you’re trying to help? Absolutely. Will it shift the burden to properties that are higher valued? Absolutely. Will there be new fees, I don’t see how there won’t.”
indicator, Leek said, is the number of people who are undecided. Most people who are undecided wind up voting no, he said.
“I don’t know if this gets 60%,” Leek said. “I think it struggles to get there.”
TAXPAYER
ACCOUNTABILITY
Unlike property taxes, the Florida Legislature took no action on accountability measures for the state’s $4 billion school voucher program. Despite a unanimous Senate vote to address oversight issues flagged by a state audit, the House allowed the legislation to die.
David Ayers, president of Flagler Broadcasting, asked Greco if he thought the school voucher system was working. Greco said he is a supporter of school vouchers. Being a relatively new program, he said, he thinks it is approaching a stability point. The majority of vouchers are now going to families who are leaving public schools, rather than those that were never enrolled, making it easier to track, he said.
Brian McMillan, the Observer ’s publisher, asked
Wastewater (Reclaimed) Improvements. The project will install equipment that removes excess salt from treated wastewater so the city can legally recycle and reuse the water by 2031 instead of releasing it into the Matanzas River.
$150,000: Palm Coast Burroughs Drive Stormwater Improvements. This project will clean out built-up sediment from Palm Coast’s saltwater canals.
$1.3 million: Flagler County Black Branch North Drainage System Project. The project is building a controlled stormwater system that captures runoff, cleans it in a pond and releases it slowly so it reduces flooding, improves water quality and protects nearby waterways.
$250,000: Flagler County
about educational accountability with the state setting standards for public school education that do not apply to private or home-school students who receive taxpayerfunded vouchers.
“I look at it the other way,” Greco said. “I don’t think the answer to that is to regulate the private schools more. I think the answer is to decrease regulation where we can on public schools. There are additional costs that we’re placing on our public schools that we don’t need to be. I’d rather cut those costs than to saddle private schools with costs.”
Flagler Schools Superintendent LaShakia Moore said she wanted to comment as a taxpayer. She stressed that she is in favor of school choice with parents being allowed to educate their children where ever they want. But with $19 million of taxpayer money being distributed in Flagler County through the voucher program, taxpayers should be able to see what the return is on their investment, she said. “What is important is the accountability to the dollar,” Moore said.
Every dollar the school district spends, it has to provide a record for, Moore said.
“As a taxpayer I just strongly believe that if $19 million is out in our community educating our children, we should be able to track those taxpayer dollars.”
Greco agreed that accountability “is incredibly important, and I want to make sure we can identify where every taxpayer dollar goes and make sure that it’s going where it’s supposed to go.”
LEEK’S TALE OF TWO BILLS
Leek highlighted two bills that he prioritized during the legislative session. The Officer Jason Raynor Act succeeded.
The AI Bill of Rights did not.
Raynor, a Daytona Beach police officer, was shot in the line of duty in 2021 and died of his injuries. The defendant was charged with first degree murder, but in 2023 a Clay County jury found him guilty of the lesser charge of manslaughter.
The Raynor Act, which Gov.
Animal Shelter. This funding will support the collaboration with Flagler County to expand capacity and enhance the animal shelter facilities serving Palm Coast residents.
$250,000: Palm Coast Woodlands Community Stormwater Capacity. This proposed project increases flood protection by creating stormwater storage capacity ponds and increasing conveyance within the drainage basin.
$274,000: Flagler County Disaster Resilience Staging Sites. Provides funding for two elevated, paved Disaster Resilience Staging Sites in rural western Flagler County to support emergency supply staging, food and water distribution, response vehicle deployment and basic sanitation services during disasters.
Session results
REP. GRECO
HB 679. Registration of Trademarks: Modernizes Florida’s trademark registration process.
HB 1293. Fraudulent Entry of Residential dwellings: Protects homeowners by making it a crime to fraudulently enter and take position of another person’s home. The Bill also allows landlords to immediately terminate a rental agreement when false information is used to obtain a lease.
SB 1404 (HB 1295). Memory Care: Strengthens standards for memory care providers, including requirements for resident contracts, facility conditions, and advertising.
Ron DeSantis signed into law, establishes a mandatory life sentence without the possibility of parole for defendants convicted of killing a law enforcement officer in Florida.
“We took care of that glitch. It took three years,” Leek said.
The AI Bill of Rights, which was in its first year in the legislative process, passed the Senate but did not pass in the House. The bill was in response to a teenage boy committing suicide after engaging with an AI chatbot.
“You can see the harm out there that some of these things are causing is so great, we just can’t afford to wait,” Leek said. “The Bill of Rights [provides] a lot of protections for children and vulnerable adults. The chatbot has to tell you it’s a computer, not only up front, but remind you periodically you’re talking to a machine.”
He said he believes the bill did not pass in the House because President Trump wants to see a national standard for AI regulation. But Leek doesn’t think Congress will pass an AI bill in the very near future.
“This is a bill I love, I’m passionate about,” Leek said. “We’ll keep bringing that one back until it passes.”
FUNDS HEADED TO FLAGLER
Greco said Flagler County did very well during the legislative session.
“I had about $20 million in appropriations projects approved by the governor, and about $40 million in Florida’s budget is coming back to Flagler County,” he said.
Greco touched on a few bills that he sponsored which passed in this session: House Bill 679, which modernizes the state’s trademark registration process; HB 1293 which creates a third-degree felony for individuals who take possession of a rental property by using forged documents; and HB 1295, strengthening standards for memory care providers.
Another bill he sponsored was HB 445, Missy’s Law, that requires courts to immediately remand a defendant into custody without bond after they plead guilty or no contest, or are found guilty of a dangerous crime, keeping them detained while they await sentencing.
“This is a common-sense measure to make sure that communities are safe and make sure that people who are convicted are in custody.” Greco, who was in his second year as a state representative, said he has been able to deliver quickly for his district because he’s had some “really great mentors including Sen. Leek, who helped me establish myself quickly.” Flagler County School Board member Lauren Ramirez asked Greco if he had any opinions about Flagler Schools’ programs after he toured the district’s campuses this year.
Greco began by congratulating the school district for achieving an A grade earlier this month.
with meeting minutes. Finally, school districts are prohibited from requiring or incentivizing district employees to sign an NDA. (Passed as HB 1073)
SEN. LEEK
SB 156. Protecting Law Enforcement Officers: Officer Jason Raynor Act, prohibits a person from using or threatening to use force to resist any arrest or detention, or to resist an officer engaged in the performance of his or her official duties, if the officer was acting in good faith. (Passed)
SB 990. Diversifying Florida’s Insurance Market: seeks to create more capacity within the insurance market by allowing a business, or a designated protected cell captive insurance company, to insure specific and specialized types of risk. A pool of assets and liabilities are insured separate from other assets and liabilities, with the goal to drive down premiums. (Passed as HB 883)
SB 1620. Cementing School Board members’ Bill of Rights: clarifies School Board members’ oversight authority by allowing them to request information from the District CFO and other staff. It also expands what public records shall be kept
SB 436. Felony Battery: Fills a gap in the battery enhancement statute by adding “resisting an officer with violence” to the list of prior convictions that are eligible for enhancement as a repeat battery offense. This ensures that repeat violent offenders are treated as such. (Passed) SB 398. Child Pornography Terminology: Removes all statutory references to “child pornography” and replaces it with “Child Sexual Abuse Material” (CSAM). This bill reinforces that any such material is a serious crime against a child.
(Passed as HB 245) SB 434. Windstorm Mitigation: Ensures that Floridians are not punished for home hardening by requiring that the increase in value attributable to improvements made to residences to increase the property’s resistance to wind damage may not be considered when determining the assessed value. (Passed Senate, died in the House)
SB 482. Artificial Intelligence Bill of Rights: sought to protect the most vulnerable when it comes to AI. In particular, it would have provided protections related to “companion chatbots.” These are not the bots you may run into to answer a routine question on a website, but instead they are created to sustain a relationship with a user that may seem real. The bill was narrowly drafted to provide protections for Floridians, while allowing AI to continue to be a valuable tool.
(Passed Senate, died in the House)
“That’s certainly something you all should be proud of,” he said, adding that he was impressed by his visit, particularly with the district’s classroom to careers programs.
“I hope you continue to grow that program,” he said. “I hope other districts can learn from the success that you’ve had here with those programs, and we can continue to create, obviously a strong education environment, but a workforce that is attractive to businesses who want to come here.”
Palm Coast Vice Mayor Theresa Pontieri asked Greco about getting dispatchers designated as first responders for benefit purposes and the lack of indemnity benefits for first responders with PTSD that is not necessarily connected to a physical injury.
Greco said he believes those bills will come back to the Legislature.
“Anything we can do to support our first responders is something that I’m in full support of,” he said. “I served in the military, and PTSD is a real problem and a real issue we need to be addressing any time.”
“There are additional costs that we’re placing on our public schools that we don’t need to be. I’d rather cut those costs than to saddle private schools with costs.”
REP. SAM GRECO
Rep. Sam Greco (left) listens as Sen. Tom Leek speaks at the Palm Coast-Flagler Regional Chamber of Commerce Legislative Update. Photo by Brent Woronoff
SEN. TOM LEEK, on property tax amendment
Palm Coast staff proposes budget cuts, as well as 3% tax rate increase
Proposed maximum millage rate would preserve the council’s flexibility during budget discussions.
RICH CARROLL
MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER
Palm Coast city staff is recommending a slight property tax increase for fiscal year 2027, warning that inflation, rising public safety costs and growing operational expenses have made it increasingly difficult to balance the city’s budget without additional revenue.
During a budget workshop on July 14, City Manager Mike McGlothlin recommended setting the city’s maximum proposed millage rate at 4.2296 mills, up from the current 4.0893 mills. That would represent a 3.43% increase in the tax rate.
Staff said the recommendation would balance the proposed $72.2 million general fund budget while maintaining current service levels.
“This recommended millage increase will balance the budget regarding the approved Strategic Action Plans and communicated service level expectations,” McGlothlin said.
He noted the proposal already includes several costsaving measures, including freezing multiple general fund positions, adding no new general fund employees, eliminating cost-of-living raises for city employees while maintaining merit increases
of up to 3%, and not funding the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office request for nine additional deputies.
McGlothlin warned that lowering the proposed rate would require the council to reduce recently approved strategic priorities and city services.
EXISITING PROPERTY VALUES DECLINED
Budget staff reported taxable property values increased 4.13% over the previous year, although nearly all of that growth came from new construction. Existing properties collectively experienced a slight decline in value.
The proposed millage rate would generate approximately $46.5 million in ad valorem tax revenue, the city’s largest revenue source. Staff also projected relatively flat revenues from the state’s halfcent sales tax, communications service taxes and state revenue sharing.
PUBLIC SAFETY DRIVES SPENDING
Public safety remains the largest component of the city’s general fund budget. Among the largest unfunded requests is nearly $1 million to add nine sheriff’s deputies. The proposed fire department budget reflects a 7.7% increase, driven primarily by overtime costs associated with staffing shortages and increasing emergency call volume.
Councilman Charles Gambaro noted that roughly 63% of the general fund is dedicated to public safety and public works.
WHAT WOULD THE TAX RATE INCREASE MEAN?
If the maximum is approved on July 21, and the rate is not lowered by the final vote in September, the following cuts to the budget are being considered:
Freezing multiple general fund positions;
Adding no new general
“Those are the basic services that our residents expect,” Gambaro said. “To be protected from fire, from bad guys ... and also the appeal of what brings us to Palm Coast, which is how it looks.”
REC FACILITIES AT A LOSS
The Parks and Recreation Department is proposing a 4.2% budget increase, though several facilities continue to operate at a deficit.
Staff reported the Southern Recreation Center is projected to lose roughly $400,000 annually, while the Palm Coast Aquatics Center is expected to operate at approximately a $500,000 loss.
Council members requested staff develop a long-term strategy to increase revenue while maintaining recreational opportunities.
RISING DISPATCH COSTS
The Information Technology Department proposed a $7.2 million budget, a 3.8% increase over the current fiscal year, while requesting no
fund employees;
Eliminating cost-of-living raises for city employees;
Not funding the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office request for nine additional deputies;
Shifting code enforcement toward a complaintbased model; Reducing economic development incentive funding.
additional personnel. Staff highlighted significant savings achieved through in-house technology projects, while noting the department’s largest increase stems from Palm Coast’s share of regional computer-aided dispatch (CAD) software.
The city’s annual allocation is expected to increase from about $16,000 to more than $87,000, reflecting higher emergency call volume and a revised cost-sharing formula with Flagler County.
CAPITAL PROJECTS AND POLICY CHANGES
Council also reviewed several capital improvement projects.
Officials reported the Indian Trails Sports Complex improvements came in under budget, leaving approximately $960,000 available for additional parking and pedestrian safety improvements. Council members also reaffirmed their desire to build a new skate park, although funding has not yet been identified. Staff also outlined several
County advances 1-year data center moratorium
Commissioners unanimously approve first reading as staff investigates impacts.
RICH CARROLL
MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER
Flagler County commissioners unanimously approved the first reading of a proposed ordinance establishing a 12-month moratorium on new data center applications in unincorporated Flagler County, giving staff time to develop comprehensive regulations governing where the facilities can be built and how they will be reviewed.
The ordinance, approved during the board’s July 13 meeting, is intended to temporarily halt new data center applications while the county develops standards addressing environmental concerns, infrastructure demands and appropriate locations for future facilities. Because the board’s action was a first
reading, the ordinance must return for a second reading and final vote before the moratorium can take effect.
County officials emphasized that the moratorium is not intended to prohibit data centers permanently, but rather to ensure the county has clear policies in place before considering future proposals.
“What the moratorium does is it closes the door on any applications or anyone wanting to basically rush the office to get an application in while we’re still contemplat-
“These aren’t traditional commercial industrial uses. We’re finding more information about them every day.”
ANDY DANCE, Flagler County commissioner
ing what the regulations are,”
County Attorney Michael Rodriguez told commissioners.
Rodriguez added that if the county completes and adopts those regulations before the one-year period expires, the moratorium could be lifted early because it would no longer be necessary.
Chair Leann Pennington questioned whether 12 months would be sufficient, while other commissioners expressed confidence that the county could complete the work within that timeframe.
Commissioner Andy Dance said the county’s objective is
“We made a commitment. I want us to find that money.”
THERESA
PONTIERI, vice mayor, on the likelihood that the budget won’t include nine additional deputies
policy changes being considered to reduce future operating costs, including shifting code enforcement toward a complaint-based model, reducing economic development incentive funding and continuing the city’s policy of using fund balance only for one-time expenditures.
DIFFICULT CHOICES
Much of the workshop centered on how much flexibility the council should preserve heading into the formal budget process.
Staff explained that 4.2296 mills represents only the maximum rate the city could adopt. Once advertised, the council may reduce the rate during budget hearings but cannot increase it.
Councilman Dave Sullivan cautioned against making last-minute changes after staff has spent months preparing the budget.
to establish regulations before applications are submitted.
“It’s really just about planning before permitting,” Dance said. “These aren’t traditional commercial industrial uses. We’re finding more information about them every day.”
Dance said the process will include an educational effort through the Northeast Florida Regional Council, along with public workshops. He said Nassau County has already begun developing policies for the industry.
Staff also noted that many large data center developers are increasingly seeking sites in rural communities because of the availability of large tracts of land and the ability to extend utilities such as electricity and water. Officials said some companies are also redeveloping former office parks into smaller data center facilities.
The proposed 12-month moratorium will return to the board for a second reading and final vote on Aug. 3.
COUNTY ADOPTS RULES FOR FUTURE TAXING UNITS
Flagler County commissioners unanimously approved a master special assessment ordinance on July 13, creating a legal framework for future Municipal Service Benefit Units (MSBUs) and Municipal Service Taxing Units (MSTUs). County officials emphasized the ordinance does not create any new assessment districts or impose new fees. Instead, it establishes the legal process the county will use if future MSBUs or MSTUs are proposed, eliminating the need to adopt a new ordinance each time.
Interim County Administrator Adam Mengel said the ordinance also removes outdated language in the county code related to road MSBUs and outlines the legal standards required for any future special assessment.
Vice Mayor Theresa Pontieri said she would like staff to identify roughly $2.5 million in savings so the city can maintain its current millage rate while preserving funding for additional sheriff’s deputies. She said the city had committed to a threeyear plan to help the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office keep pace with Palm Coast’s growing population and wants to honor that commitment while minimizing the tax burden on residents.
“We made a commitment,” Pontieri said. “I want us to find that money.”
She added that maintaining the current millage rate rather than adopting the proposed increase would require the city to identify approximately $2.5 million in budget reductions elsewhere.
By the end of the workshop, the council reached consensus to move forward with a 4.2296 maximum proposed millage rate. The City Council is expected to formally adopt a resolution establishing the maximum millage rate at its July 21 meeting, allowing the rate to be advertised ahead of the required September budget hearings. Advertising the higher rate does not obligate the council to adopt it as the final millage rate, but it does allow members to lower the rate if additional savings are identified before the FY 2027 budget is approved in September.
“In my experience in the 10 years I’ve been doing budgets here in the county and now in the city, the worst thing that ever happened was the day before the budget was going to get approved, the council voted to reduce the millage rate,” Sullivan said. “That throws the staff into havoc because they’ve got to come forward with a budget. All of a sudden you do crazy things. You eliminate things just because you have to eliminate something.”
“It does set up the two criteria — the special benefit that’s got to be derived from any special assessment and then also that the assessment must be fairly and reasonably apportioned among the properties that are deriving that special benefit,” Mengel told commissioners.
Commissioner Kim Carney also asked how residents would be notified if future assessment districts are proposed. Mengel said property owners could receive notice through the annual Truth in Millage (TRIM) process, provided statutory deadlines are met, ensuring affected residents have an opportunity to review and comment before any assessments are imposed.
Commissioners unanimously approved the ordinance, though each future MSBU or MSTU will still require its own public approval process before any assessments can be levied on property owners.
— RICH CARROLL
File photo by Brent Woronoff
Flagler Schools’ ESE director retires
Kim Halliday will help build transition programs in other districts.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Dr. Kim Halliday, Flagler Schools’ director of Exceptional Student Education, is retiring on July 31. Halliday has worked in public school education in Florida for 32 years, the last 22 years in Flagler County.
Halliday has been the director of ESE for four years. As the district’s transition coordinator from 2013 to 2021, she helped establish a threetiered approach for students with disabilities, who are eligible to stay in high school until their 22nd birthday, to transition into the labor market.
The district offers the TRAIL program, which assists students in finding meaningful vocational employment. STREAM courses are for students that have more need and are not ready yet to join the workforce. Project SEARCH is located at AdventHealth Palm Coast. There, students spend the whole day working with AdventHealth staff members.
“Dr. Halliday has done great work in building out transition programs for our students with disabilities,” Flagler Schools Assistant Superintendent Dr. Angela O’Brien said. “She has been instrumental in growing different opportunities for them to get connected to the workforce and do meaningful work as they transition into adulthood.”
Halliday had entered Florida’s deferred retirement option program last month and expected to remain in
her position for another eight years. But then she received an offer from Able Trust, a public nonprofit that promotes employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
“This opportunity fell in my lap,” she said. “I’ll be able to help other school districts that don’t have the graduation rates like ours improve their outcomes with students with disabilities. It’s pretty exciting.”
Able Trust provided a grant to Flagler Schools in 2018 to start a fourth transition program, High School High Tech. The program is for any person with a disability in Flagler Schools and assists them in exploring postsecondary education, training and careers.
Halliday and her husband, Dave Halliday, a Flagler Palm Coast High School teacher and head track and cross country coach, moved to Flagler County in 2004. Her first position at Flagler Schools was as a self-contained ESE teacher at FPC and then at Matanzas High School, when it opened, where she taught children with significant cognitive disabilities.
“You had to be very cre -
ative,” she said. “It was a very busy classroom. There was no sitting behind a desk, no traditional teaching. It was very individualized. And our kids grew.”
She took pride in helping a student take their first step or write their name for the first time. At Matanzas, she started Flagler Schools’ first Disability and Awareness Week.
“Dr. Chris Pryor [Matanzas High’s first principal] welcomed us. The kids were welcomed with open arms,” she said. “My kids were part of everything they could be at both schools. It was a great way to start my career here in Flagler.”
Halliday said she knows the ESE department won’t miss a beat without her because of the leadership of Superintendent LaShakia Moore and Assistant Superintendent O’Brien.
“When Ms. Moore says we’re going to serve all kids, my heart gets filled, beacause she means all kids,” Halliday said. “Most ESE directors don’t have the kind of support I’ve had my whole time in the district office. With Ms. Moore and Dr. O’Brien, if it’s good for kids, we’re going to figure it out. Whoever is the next ESE director is stepping into a blessing. We have a great team leading our students.”
Halliday won’t be moving. She’ll continue to participate in the Autism Awareness Festival, Disability Awareness Week, the Fun Coast Down Syndrome Buddy Walk and other events that support individuals with disabilities in the county.
“I’m not going anywhere,” she said. “This is my home. I hope to see the parents out in the community and find out how their kids are doing. I want to hear the good news.”
Turtle Patrol’s stolen ATV is found
The ATV was stolen from a shed in Marineland and was found by a Mosquito Control technician.
NICOLE GRAVES
EFMCD OUTREACH SPECIALIST
An East Flagler Mosquito Control District field technician conducting routine inspections located the all-terrain vehicle stolen last month from the Flagler Turtle Patrol. He was patrolling at about 10 a.m. Monday, July 13, and immediately notified the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.
John Dunlop, a field technician who joined the District in 2022, came across the ATV in a heavily wooded area near Marineland during his regular inspection route and recognized it as the stolen vehicle. He immediately contacted the Flagler Sheriff’s Office.
The ATV was stolen on June 17 from a shed behind the Turtle Patrol’s facility in Marineland on North Ocean Shore Blvd. The theft, which also included an iPad the volunteers used to record data for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, forced them to patrol the beach on foot at the height of
sea turtle nesting season until community donations funded a replacement. The iPad was not recovered with the ATV.
FCSO Crime Scene Technicians have collected evidence and are still investigating and following up on any leads.
Field technicians at the East Flagler Mosquito Control District spend a substantial portion of every workday inspecting and treating mosquito breeding sites throughout the District on foot. That work takes them into parts of Flagler that few ever get to see.
A native Floridian, Dunlop spent much of his youth playing in the swamps of the Tomoka River, and he still prefers to be outdoors, spending
his free time with his wife and two boys.
“We never know what we’ll come upon in the areas we inspect,” Dunlop said. “Usually, it’s something that wants to bite you. This was a nice surprise.”
“This is exactly the outcome that comes from having dedicated people in the field every single day,” said Mike Martin, chairman of the East Flagler Mosquito Control District Board of Commissioners.
“Our technicians know this District inch by inch because inspecting and treating mosquito habitats requires them to cover ground that most people don’t even think about. Without hesitation, John saw something and said something. This is the caliber of our entire staff.”
The East Flagler Mosquito Control District was formed in 1952 and is an independent special taxing district funded by property taxes. The mission of the East Flagler Mosquito Control District is the suppression of mosquito species that may cause illness or significant discomfort within a specific control area and with minimal environmental impact.
Kim Halliday at the Autism Awareness Festival in 2024. File photo by Brent Woronoff
John Dunlop on District ATV. Courtesy photos
Turtle Patrol ATV in the woods.
SMALL SIZE , BIG DEAL
PALM COAST CITY COUNCIL
with my wife, Carla. With my work as a contractor I have an understanding of most of the departments of the city. I have a fair amount knowledge in contract law and budgets. I have worked on previous Land Development Codes, with the PLDRB, on the Residential Drainage Citizen Advisory Board also.
Priorities: Diversify our tax base, prioritize infrastructure, resurfacing of our roads, city government transparency.
long term rentals. I am a certified fitness nutrition specialist but offer that advice for free and for fun, since covid. I am solution driven and have identified areas of concerns needing, budget, planning reconsiderations and voter approvals.
Priorities: Health, safety, security and longevity of the residents and the future of city. Transparency, responsibility, accountability, consistency and ethical conduct.
over 40 years of experience, who knows how to manage budgets, build teams, and get things done. Palm Coast deserves council members who will put residents first.
Priorities: Fix our infrastructure before approving new development, and stop passing those costs onto the residents. Establish a mission statement on what we want Palm Coast to be. Programs to attract new, or nurture existing business. Protect environment and wildlife.
science; over 10 years of leadership experience in communications, team management, multimillion-dollar budgets, projects, training and operations nationwide.
Priorities: Responsible growth, stronger infrastructure, better paying jobs, public safety, and a city government that listens.
erations director and current business owner
City Council is doing a great job listening to residents’ concerns about growth.
The city should not allow any new data centers, regardless of potential tax revenue.
The city staff is too large and should be reduced.
Priorities: Infrastructure first! Force growth to pay for growth! Fix our swells and drain systems a full overhall of our budget spending forcement, mortgage underwriter, small business owner, and community leader.
Priorities: Infrastructure, economic growth and preserving our quality of life in Palm Coast.
owner. Community advocate through Concerned Citizens of Palm Coast working to ensure compliance of rule of law protections for the safety, health, and welfare of local communities, wildlife protections, clean air and water, and the peaceful enjoyment of our homes.
Priorities: Protect Palm Coast from overdevelopment that outpaces capacity; cut wasteful spending; public health and safety; fix flooding problems for local residents.
I believe that council can explain better as to why certain decisions are made. Every decision will have some people upset. If explained I believe that the majority of the will understand why.
All data centers are not created equal. I can’t really rule out any future possibilities one way or the other. The facts will lead to the final approval or disapproval.
If elected and before the next budget process I would ask the directors of each department justify the number of employees under them before approving the budget.
The city should pay extra to add more law enforcement officers than it has now.
The city should invest more taxpayer funds to attract new businesses to the city.
City Council repeatedly votes in favor of the developers against public input.
I believe in healthy revenue options proven safe for residents and wildlife and low impact on resources.
This needs to be looked into. Departments may or may not be overstaffed but over or under budgeted. There needs to be balance.
I need to see how many officers are in our city every day. Then I would need to confirm if that is a sufficient number for our population.
There is a time and a place for incentives. Not every job is worth an incentive. We should use them wisely and hold the recipients of those incentives to task if they don’t keep their end of the bargain.
FCSO is great at getting grants. Kudos! There are deputy turnovers, budgets need to consider number of active deputies, not just how many are requested for new hires.
Outreach costs staff nothing. If Palm Coast was doing a good job, it will attract business. Favoring certain land owners over geographic design for locating protentional businesses needs to stop.
If property tax reform is passed by voters, the city will be able maintain levels of service without creating new fees.
City Council has a history of approving new developments and expanding the scope of previous plans to expand density of these communities even though current residents opposed the expansion.
We need to gather firsthand knowledge on the true potential effects. The city is not the place to have any hyperscale type of data center. The cable landing station is said to be totally different.
The city added around 100 new positions in the last 5 years. We have managers with high salaries. I feel for people who might lose their jobs but the city needs to operate like a business.
Our county is the second safest in the state. There is a cost to achieve this ranking, but all departments have to address the possible budget shortages. Let’s not cut back, but wait on any expansion.
There is an obvious need for jobs in our city. Our residents have to travel to St. Augustine or Daytona for work. We have the opportunity to be a part of the expanding Space Coast Initiative.
Considering public safety is close to 50% of the general fund, I don’t know how we will cover the other services without some kind of fees added.
If we cut the bloat from the top and stop frivolous and unapproved spending, there would be no need for the “threat” of cutting services.
There are sure to be some adjustments that will need to be made. It will remain to be seen if new fees may have to be implemented, such as user fees.
Residents do not feel heard. We need to listen earlier, communicate better, and make sure residents have a real voice before major decisions are made.
I am skeptical, but I will not make any blanket decisions. Any proposal must prove it will not burden our water, power, infrastructure, or residents.
I will not promise cuts without doing my homework. We need to review staffing, eliminate duplication, and make decisions based on facts.
As Palm Coast grows, public safety must keep pace. We should look at staffing, response times, and community needs, then fund what is necessary.
We need better paying jobs and a stronger tax base, but taxpayer dollars must deliver results. I support smart investments, not blank checks.
No. We cannot lose significant revenue and pretend nothing will change. Residents deserve the truth about what it means for services and fees.
For years City Hall has allowed explosive, unchecked growth to outpace our infrastructure! This has left existing taxpayers the bill. We must continue improving communication, planning responsibly, and ensuring that infrastructure and city services keep pace with growth while protecting our quality of life.
Data centers place a larger burden on local grids, consuming massive amounts of power and water. We cannot risk compounding the strain on our infrastructure.
I support a targeted reduction and structural freeze on non-essential administrative overhead, high level management additions, and expensive outside consultants.
Public safety is a core non-negotiable responsibility of local government. However we do not need to squeeze taxpayers to pay extra via new revenue or tax hikes to fund this.
I believe each proposal should be evaluated on its own merits. Data centers can provide economic and tax benefits, but those benefits must be weighed against their impact.
I do not believe the goal should be to reduce staff simply to reduce headcount. The priority should be building an efficient, accountable organization that delivers high-quality services.
I support ensuring law enforcement has the personnel and resources they need. Any decision to add officers should be based on growth, service demands, response times, and budget sustainability.
Palm Coast needs commercial diversification and high paying jobs. However, we should not be spending more taxpayer dollars on corporate incentives. Strategic investments in economic development, including creating shovel-ready or pad-ready sites, can make Palm Coast more competitive when recruiting employers.
If Florida voters pass property tax reform, it must serve as an immediate mandate to restructure our city budget.
My goal would be to protect core services, avoid unnecessary burdens on residents, and work collaboratively with the community to find responsible, long-term solutions.
Since 2021, I have been attending government meetings and expressing my concerns regarding growth at any cost, urban sprawl, unnecessary zone changes and special exception approvals.
Until more is known, I believe there should be a halt to any and all data centers in Palm Coast.
Palm Coast has top notch employees that do great work. I also believe that city staff has grown more than necessary since Covid, and that there are opportunities to combine departments.
We already “pay extra” for exceptional law enforcement.
The best way to attract businesses is to put an end to incentivizing development that brings more crime, lowers home values, strains infrastructure, depletes limited resources, and causes sprawl.
By focusing on the priorities of the residents rather than what developers want, maintaining and even increasing levels of service could still be possible.
“Tony”
FLAGLER COUNTY COMMISSION
bring integrity, leadership and a common sense approach to decisions that effect everyone.
Priorities: Public safety, smart growth, improving infrastructure, economic development and supporting tourism economy
for nearly two years and City Councilwoman for nearly four years. I’m also a business litigation and family law attorney.
Priorities: Economic development is my to priority. I also want to continue to prioritize infrastructure and public safety.
commitment
Priorities: 1. Affordability; 2. Revisited Zoning and Planning/Master Plan; 3. Develop a solid comprehensive plan for maintaining our beaches and roads to drainage systms that includes the canals being dredged.
teer, long career of problem solving and customer service with 25 years of data research.
Priorities: Fiscal responsibility (forensic audits and performance evalutions); smart growth (new development must be concurrent to infrastructure); transparency and simplification of budgets and procedures.
and was a Realtor before moving into property management and finance. I served as the records management liaison officer between the Flagler Clerk and the state of Florida from 2010 to 2018. I have been teaching since 2019.
ing experience, with expertise in lending fraud strategy, securities, financial analysis, risk management, and responsible fiscal oversight.
Priorities: My priorities included reducing taxes, conservation land acquisition, protecting Western Flagler’s farms and rural character, and securing state fundings for Bull Creek, fire stations, a special needs shelter and flood mitigation projects.
The County Commission is doing a great job listening to residents’ concerns about
Better, open communication with detailed explanations on controversial decisions or plans may help to alter any negative perceptions as to the commission’s actions.
The current board is listening more than previous ones. They have taken steps to control what they can, but legally, they are often handcuffed from doing more.
We need to more accurately define coastal properties, ensure no disparate treatment, find localized alternative revenues and protect the tourism industry which benefits the entire county.
Residents, businesses and visitors enjoy a strong level of service. This cannot be answered without a detailed staff analysis of all positions within the county.
county should pay extra to add more law enforcement officers than it has now.
property tax reform is passed by voters, the county will be able maintain levels of service without creating new fees.
This topic was the number one talked about during my petition drive.
We need more data to ascertain the total benefit to all residents for beach maintenance, and we need to figure out who is already paying what amounts towards beach infrastructure.
I honestly don’t know yet, but for budgeting purposes, I always look for efficiencies, ensure we are not top-heavy, and try to get folks crosstrained where possible.
Any additions, based upon needs elaborated in his budget, must be strongly considered as our county’s growth is on-going but fiscal constraints may force reevaluation and/or concessions.
Current efforts must be significantly enhanced to diversify our tax base and relieve the disproportionate burden on residential taxpayers.
While some budgetary adjustments may be made to lessen the impact of lost revenue, maintaining the service levels with decreased ad valorem taxes may require alternative revenue sources.
We are currently lacking deputies in several areas in accordance with our population, and we are falling behind on our deputy and officer salaries.
I don’t agree only piecemealing, like District 2 without the district having its own tax base for services. District 2 I believe would be able to stand on it’s own as properties near water have always paid more.
Many called, wrote, signed a petition, came in person, and spoke in opposition to one project. They passed it anyway. I will never vote for these projects in these circumstances.
The coastal properties pay a fair share of property taxes as well as tourist bed tax. It is pure mismanagement when the county didn’t create a reserve fund for beach maintenance.
I would review each department, and one department that isn’t keeping up with the ISO is the county fire services.
My understanding is 80% of the sheriff’s services are provided to the City of Palm Coast that only pay at best 50%, and my answer is no for the county paying extra.
This is my top priority. We need to shift the tax base from residential taxpayers to commercial and industry and bring in more goodpaying jobs. This could also parlay into more tourism dollars.
We have to be practical and transparent about the implications of tax reform, but it’s hard to ascertain exactly what will happen if the bill passes.
Everyone I have spoken with agrees. They feel unheard and believe growth is occurring faster than our infrastructure.
The County Commission works hard to listen to residents’ concerns. Unfortunately, the state has passed laws that limit local governments’ authority over development decisions.
A lot of Flagler County residents who don’t live at the beach still visit and enjoy it. It also brings business from all over the world. Beach maintenance is extremely costly, and coastal property owners cannot bear that burden alone. We must pursue maximum state and federal funding.
Growth in staff/ administration has outpaced what’s needed for essential services and has fueled higher taxes without proportional benefits to residents.
I support adequate funding for public safety, but require full transparency, cost-benefit review, and ensuring growth pays its share rather than burdening taxpayers.
Before any investment is made, what industries do we want, and do they provide good paying salaries and benefits? This includes trying to get our education system on board. My priorities are fiscal responsibility, smart/sustainable growth, transparency, and protecting quality of life, environment, and taxpayers. Growth must pay for itself.
The basic services will not be affected by tax reform, and any large new fees will only be added if the majority of the citizens vote on annually. With strong fiscal oversight and audits to cut waste, we can maintain essential services.
Anytime government or its budget outgrows inflation and population there’s an issue.
Extra? No. More officers per capita? Also, no. Our sheriff does a good job. Over the last 20 years, the number of sheriffs deputies has gone up relative to the number of residents, as it should.
Government should always seek greater efficiency and adopt resources that reduce staffing needs. The county evaluates its workforce annually to ensure departments are appropriately staffed.
There are established metrics that determine when additional law enforcement officers are needed. We follow those metrics to ensure deputies are properly staffed to protect our community.
It needs to be the right kind of businesses. Let’s attract them with our unique way of life. Flagler balances all the “new” with our “old Florida charm” better than anyone. The county continues pursuing state grants for water utilities along southern U.S. 1. We need more utility served, pad-ready commercial sites to attract businesses and strengthen our economy.
I believe over 80% of our budget comes from ad valorem taxes. While I believe the budget has grown much more than it should, that type of loss would be devastating.
No. Maintaining current service levels would be difficult. Regardless, I support additional tax relief.
A SECOND CHANCE
Ormond Beach teacher
Jackie Coombe adopts former student after two-year journey.
JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Jackie Coombe’s life changed in October 2023. That’s when she met Jaden.
Coombe had recently decided to go back to work as a teacher and was assigned to Jaden’s second grade class at Pathways Elementary. The boy she encountered in the classroom was spirited and goofy, and he made an impression.
“He has that magic,” Coombe said.
Toward the end of the school year, she learned Jaden was in foster care. He was one of six siblings, and Coombe learned
that the hope was that he would be adopted alongside one of his older brothers.
Learning that Jaden was navigating the foster care system planted a seed and motivated her to start filing adoption paperwork. Even if she didn’t adopt Jaden, perhaps there would be another child that she’d feel the same connection with.
Then in February 2025, she learned that Jaden was still waiting to be adopted.
“It turns out that, because I’d contacted the social worker the spring before, they were trying to find what teacher it was that was looking to adopt him,” Coombe said. So Coombe reached out and let them know it was her, and, that she was still interested in adopting him.
On June 10, over two years since Coombe started the process, her adoption of Jaden
was finalized. The 11-year-old boy had officially become her son.
MAKING PROGRESS
Jaden and Coombe had their first interaction as future mother-and-son at a visitation center in June 2025.
“They told him on his way over that he was going to be seeing me and I don’t think he believed it,” Coombe said. “He came in the door and his eyes just lit up, and he started out with, ‘Ms. Coombe, Ms. Coombe!’”
Jaden was a little shy on that first visit, as being with his former teacher in a nonclassroom setting was unfamiliar. Coombe was overwhelmed, but she didn’t let that discourage her. And every visit after, no matter how shy, Jaden was excited to see her, she said. Their first supervised visit took place at Rainbow Park in Ormond Beach. They stopped at Publix and got Jaden his sandwich of choice: roast beef with mustard and pickles.
For their first visit on their own, Coombe took Jaden to a friend’s birthday party in Palm Coast.
And slowly, they found their footing. By Halloween that year, he asked her if she was going to be his mom. Jaden was placed in her home permanently that December.
“The more we saw each other, the awkwardness went away,” Coombe said. “It was exciting to have him come to the house and show him his bedroom. ... He started imagining staying the night over. He was really all for it.”
Because Jaden has some special needs, including a speech delay, Coombe knew that taking on the role of mom would need to come with resources to help.
Adoption opened the door for him to benefit from those resources, Coombe said. He’s been able to receive speech and occupational therapy, and has recently started equine therapy as well.
so well,” Graf said. Jaden has had a special place in her heart since he was placed in her classroom. Coombe provides her with updates regularly, including sending her photos of the adoption day at the courthouse.
“I’ve been in education for 29 years, and you always have those little ones that tug at your heart sometimes,” she said, and with a laugh, added, “but Jaden really, really, he did a toll on me and Jackie.”
JADEN’S JOY
Over time, Coombe had learned two major things about Jaden: He wanted to be adopted very much, and he wanted to play baseball.
“I was like, ‘Oh, we can do both of those,’” Coombe recalled.
This past season, Jaden played with the Ormond Beach Youth Baseball and Softball Association’s Cubs 10U minor league team.
Jaden was very shy when Coach Gordy VanDusen first met him. When the league director asked him if he’d be willing to coach Jaden, VanDusen, a New Smyrna Beach Police officer, agreed without hesitating.
“For me, coaching little league sports is to make sure kids are having fun, and that means all kids and every kid,” VanDusen said.
Seeing Jaden on the field having fun brings a smile to your face, he said.
“It really brings back the whole point of playing sports
in general, and that’s just having the joy of the game,” VanDusen said. “I think watching Jaden play really revitalized that for everyone.”
Coaching Jaden came at the perfect time for VanDusen too, as he and his wife are in the process of adopting a child too.
“Being able to hit those parenting milestones and seeing Jackie do that with Jaden is huge, because you can tell that she is putting in a lot of effort,” VanDusen said. “Her and I would have very lengthy conversations about him hitting milestones and progressing to have the normalcy of a childhood that he deserves and can definitely get with her and her family. Gosh, her and her son Rob just pour an enormous amount of time into Jaden and his success.” Jaden likes the same things as most boys his age. He loves to play Roblox, ride his bike and he swims like a fish, Coombe said. He also loves the family’s cats.
“He’s curious,” Coombe said. “He’s very loving. He is very friendly. He’s just very active, which is good.”
Coombe has two biological sons, ages 29 and 27. When asked if she ever thought she’d be a mom to a young child again, she said she “really, really wanted to.” The age Jaden is at were her favorite years with her sons, she said.
“I get to do all that again,” she said. “I get to go relive a childhood with him.”
Leah Graf was Jaden’s first grade teacher at Pathways Elementary. When he was put in her classroom, Jaden would not make eye contact and hardly said a word. He struggled with reading and writing.
Throughout the school year, he progressed enough to where he would play with other children side-by-side. Today, he’s able to communicate in full sentences and play sports.
“From where I saw him back in first grade to where he is now, it’s just awesome to see that little boy flourish and do
Jaden greets Shelldon from the Daytona Tortugas.
Jackie Coombe and her sons Jaden and Robert. Courtesy photos
REAL ESTATE
Veranda Bay home sells for over $1.6M
Ahouse in Veranda Bay in Flagler Beach at 150 Coronado Road was the top real estate transaction for the week of June 27 to July 3 in Palm Coast and Flagler County. The house sold on June 30, for $1,635,321. Built in 2026, the house is a 4/3.5 and has a pool, a fireplace and 3,958 square feet.
JARLEENE ALMENAS
MANAGING EDITOR
Condos
200 Canopy Walk Lane, Unit 242, sold on July 2, for $285,000. Built in 2005, the condo is a 3/2 and has 1,377 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $330,000.
5 Ocean Palm Villas N. sold on July 2, for $223,000. Built in 1979, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,184 square feet. It last sold in 2018 for $189,000.
11 Avenue De La Mer, unit 1105, sold on June 30, for $670,000. Built in 1992, the 2/2 has a fireplace and 1,490 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $480,200.
2450 N. Ocean Shore Blvd., Unit 116, sold on July 1, for $685,000. Built in 2007, the condo is a 3/3 and has 1,919 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $415,000.
8 Oakmont Court, Unit 8, sold on July 1, for $135,000. Built in 1980, the condo is a 2/2 and has a fireplace and 950 square feet. It last sold in 2004 for $96,000.
BUNNELL
Daytona North
The house at 5041 Olive Ave. sold on July 2, for $220,000. Built in 1986, the house is a 3/1 and has 912 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $80,000.
Plantation
Reserve Estates
The house at 20 Deer Park Drive sold on July 1, for $1,475,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 3/3 and has a pool, a spa and 3,089 square feet. It last sold in 2025 for $1,250,000.
FLAGLER BEACH
Fuquay
1710 S. Central Ave. sold June 30, for $865,000. Built in 2016, the house 3/2 and has 2,107 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $450,000.
Seaside Manor
The house at 19 Westmayer Place sold on July 3, for $835,000. Built in 2019, the house is a 5/2.5 and has a fireplace, an elevator and 3,200 square feet.
PALM COAST
Colbert Landings
The house at 67 Ararat Drive sold on July 2, for $386,990.
Built in 2026, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,193 square feet.
Flagler Village
The house at 6 Dilly Court sold on July 2, for $319,990. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 1,842 square feet. The house at 65 Wandering Creek Way sold on July 2, for $354,990. Built in 2026, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,193 square feet.
Grand Haven
The house at 4 N. Village Parkway sold on July 2, for $790,000. Built in 2004, the house is a 4/3 and has a pool, a fireplace and 2,952 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $657,000.
Marineland Acres
The house at 59 Ocean St. sold on July 2, for $910,000. Built in 1986, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a fireplace and 1,672 square feet. It last sold in 2023 for $949,900.
Palm Coast Plantation
The house at 165 S. Riverwalk Drive sold on June 30, for $1,169,000. Built in 2017, the house is a 3/3.5 and has a fireplace, a pool, a spa and 2,989 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $1,043,800.
Plantation Bay
The house at 31 Magnolia Court sold on July 2, for $879,000. Built in 1989, the house is a 7/5 and has a pool, a spa, a fireplace and 3,863 square feet. It last sold in 2012 for $265,000.
Seminole Woods
The house at 2 Seckel Court sold on July 3, for $374,900. Built in 2026, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,117 square feet. Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report.
YOUR SCHOOLS
Flagler Palm Coast Kiwanis Club gives away hundreds of books in annual ‘Library of My Own’
program: Summer Reading camp participants hold up their books along with Flagler Palm Coast Kiwanis Club members, teachers and volunteers at the club’s annual “Library of My Own” book giveaway, on July 9, at Wadsworth Elementary School. Photo by Brent Woronoff
Split Oak Ranch celebrates grand opening: ‘We love you guys’
The celebration showcased the ranch’s vision for agritourism, weddings, community gatherings.
RICH CARROLL
MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER
Split Oak Ranch officially celebrated the grand opening of its new agritourism venue Saturday, welcoming hundreds of residents, local officials and business owners for a ribbon-cutting ceremony that marked a major milestone for the 54-acre equestrian property.
The celebration gave the community its first look at the ranch’s completed event venue, which owners Neftali and Nicole DeJesus envision as a destination for weddings, agricultural events, equestrian activities and community gatherings.
Guests spent the evening browsing more than 50 vendors, choosing from approximately eight food trucks, watching demonstra-
tions, visiting horse rescue organizations and enjoying family-friendly attractions including bounce houses and a mechanical bull. A passing storm cooled temperatures just before the festivities began, making for comfortable conditions throughout the evening.
“It’s been a journey to get here,” Neftali DeJesus said before the ribbon cutting.
When asked what he was feeling moments before officially opening the venue, DeJesus smiled before reflecting on the months of work leading up to the celebration.
“Tired,” he joked. “No. It’s been a great time. We’ve been building. We’ve had so many people help us.”
DeJesus said the project was built not only through his family’s efforts but also through an outpouring of community support. As the owner of two construction companies, he said many of the subcontractors who regularly work with his businesses volunteered their time to help construct the new venue.
“We’ve been surrounded by love and support from our
community, from our business associates, from just everyone around,” DeJesus said. “We’re honestly just honored and blessed and thankful for just everyone here.”
The event showcased the property’s vision as an agritourism center while also highlighting local businesses and organizations from across Flagler County.
“So we have over 50 vendors here right now,” DeJesus said. “We have about eight food trucks, two bounce houses, a mechanical bull, which I’m super excited to get on myself. We have horse rescues here. It’s just a bunch of different things going on, but a great time.”
The formal ribbon-cutting ceremony was hosted by the Flagler County Chamber of Commerce. Chamber President John Phillips welcomed attendees and congratulated the DeJesus family on opening what he described as a valuable addition to the local business community before inviting Neftali DeJesus to address the crowd.
Speaking to those gathered outside the venue, DeJesus
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thanked the volunteers, contractors, elected officials and community members who helped turn the family’s vision into reality.
“I know this is the corny thing to say, but this would not be possible without everyone here,” he said. “We’ve had nothing but friends and volunteers and people we work with through our construction companies just working their butts off here, volunteering and helping us get this going.”
He also thanked county officials, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office and residents for supporting the ranch.
“We love you guys,” DeJesus said. “Thank you all for being a part of this. Thank you for believing in us and showing up.”
Following the remarks, Neftali and Nicole DeJesus, joined by family members and supporters, officially cut the ceremonial ribbon as the crowd applauded.
The grand opening represents another step in the couple’s long-term vision for Split Oak Ranch. As previously reported by the Observer, the
DeJesus family purchased the property with plans to preserve its rural character while expanding opportunities for agritourism and community events. The venue is expected to host weddings, corporate functions, livestock and equestrian events, seasonal festivals and other gatherings that celebrate Flagler County’s agricultural heritage. Saturday’s turnout suggested the community has already embraced that vision. Throughout the evening, families explored the grounds, visited local vendors, sampled food from area businesses and enjoyed live entertainment while taking in the ranch’s newest amenities.
For Neftali and Nicole DeJesus, the ribbon cutting was more than the opening of a new venue—it was the culmination of months of construction, volunteer work and community support, and the beginning of what they hope will become one of Flagler County’s premier destinations for events and agritourism. Email rich@observerlocal news.com.
Serving up fresh fish for a decade, on A1A
A1A Fisheries celebrates its 10-year anniversary in The Hammock.
ABE MILLS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
A1A Fisheries is celebrating its 10-year anniversary serving local fishermen and residents in the Hammock area.
A1A Fisheries specializes in providing high quality seafood, including locally caught fresh fish, crabcakes, smoked salmon, handmade sauces, jams and jellies.
When my wife, Rachel, and I walked into the store to meet owner Chris Hazlett for the first time, he wasn’t available right away — he was out back working with a local fisherman to unload a fresh catch.
According to Hazlett who is a commercial fisherman by trade, this dedication to local fishermen and fresh fish is the key to the success of A1A Fisheries.
“Local fish, local catch, from boat to table,” Hazlett said. “We get it, cut it, and stick it out there.”
The customers agree.
“It’s always so fresh,” customer Debbie Duwe said.
“We’re probably here once or twice a week for fresh fish.”
Not all fish is caught locally.
The salmon is flown in from the Faroe Islands, located between Iceland, Norway, and Scotland. The cold waters and strong currents in that area combine to create an atmosphere where the salmon has a worldwide reputation for high quality and great taste.
The team at A1A Fisheries browns the salmon, then smokes it for three hours and finishes it off with a special glaze. It’s a customer favorite
and people line up every day to get some.
“It’s divine,” Duwe said. “And we’re usually here at 1:30 p.m. to pick it up.” When private chef Casey Clark stepped into the shop to buy fish for a personal meal, he expressed gratitude for the team’s assistance while he was in culinary school.
“[They] helped me with all my fish needs for my certification test at school,” Clark said. “It all went super great. Great fish. I love it.” Clark, Duwe, and other customers expressed their enjoyment of not just the fresh fish, but also the friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
“I think it is really the friendly service,” said team member Nicole Nagle. “[We] try to know everybody’s names to make them feel like they’re coming home when they come in.” Hazlett has owned A1A Fisheries for two years.
“The Hammock community is awesome!” he said. A1A Fisheries is
Split Oak Ranch owners Neftali and Nicole DeJesus, joined by family, supporters and community leaders, cut the ceremonial ribbon during the grand opening celebration of the ranch’s new agritourism venue on Saturday, July 11, in Bunnell. Photo by Rich Carroll
A1A offers high quality fresh seafood caught by local fishermen. Photo by Rachel Mills
Band of Brothers
SPORTS
change his name.
Lori said she already had a chore chart on the refrigerator for her sons. It was just a matter of adding Daniel and Zachary. Over time, they worked through the dynamics of parenting.
Lori and Mark Spada encourage their five teenage sons as they start their second year at Seabreeze together.
MICHELE MEYERS
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Five Miller and Mellen-Spada brothers will stroll into Seabreeze High School on the first day of school, Aug. 10: two seniors, one junior, and two sophomores. Their presence is also known on the Sandcrabs’ football roster— two wide receivers, two linebackers, and a running back, with a couple of them playing dual positions.
They are brothers — they share meals, jokes, and sprints to the laundry basket under the same roof with the same mom and dad.
Lori and Mark Spada both agree they are proud to be the parents of this crew — seniors Daniel Mellen-Spada and Tristan Miller, junior Kamden Miller, and sophomores Austin Miller and Zachary Mellen-Spada.
“They’re a band of brothers, that’s for sure,” Lori said.
“They support each other; they reach out to each other, even before they reach out to Mark or me. They’ve learned to try to problem-solve because they know we’re still working full time.”
In 2017, Lori moved to Ormond-by-the-Sea from
Atlanta, Georgia. She was a single parent to three boys— Tristan, Kamden and Austin.
“I decided to move to the beach and never work for corporate America again,” she said.
By that time, Mark had adopted his nephews, 6-yearold Daniel and his brother, 4-year-old Zachary. He also has four children from a previous marriage: Sebastian, Giovanni, Vanessa and Maximus.
All five boys attended Osceola Elementary School, where they met. Tristan and Daniel were in the same class and became best friends, and their brothers, Austin and Zachary, were also in each other’s class and became best friends.
Lori invited Mark’s kids to Austin’s birthday party in May 2021. Afterward, Daniel told Tristan that his uncle Mark should “go out with your mom.” Tristan agreed it would be a good match. Mark called Lori to thank her, and on Mother’s Day, Lori invited him to the beach.
“Mark said I had the best pickup line,” she said. “I asked him if he wanted to touch toes in the sand.”
On Nov. 11, 2022, at 1:11 p.m., the Spadas were married. They joined forces and became a family of seven, living in a modest home on River Beach. Tristan was happy his best friend, Daniel, would be his brother, and Kamden asked if he needed to
“We started a partnership,” she said. “Blending the family and blending the chores, so they learn to work and communicate together and build a bond other than just friendship.”
After the family logistics, they had to navigate the cost of everyday living. One week of groceries and toiletries for the family of seven costs $500, and with three teen drivers, their automobile insurance exceeds the household expenses combined.
“It’s crazy, but we make it work,” Lori said. “Luckily, we don’t have a mortgage, and the three older boys work, which helps.”
Tristan has been working at Oceanside Beach Bar & Grill in Ormond-by-the-Sea for two years; Danny works at Neighborhood Scoop in Ormond Beach; and Kamden works at Riptides.
Lori is a licensed Realtor, and Mark is a licensed general contractor. Schedules can be a challenge, with five family members working, Monday-through-Friday summer football workouts, and monthly appointments.
Last month, Lori shuttled the boys to 16 doctor, dental, orthodontic, and dermatology appointments. They had 31 in December, which included physical therapy following Kamden’s injury. But the Spadas always manage to attend church every Sunday, touch a football daily, and fish and surf whenever they can.
Fifteen-year-old Austin recognizes how much work his parents put into raising him and his siblings.
“My parents are great people,” he said. “Five kids are a lot of work. It’s been exciting, though, because I already knew Zach and Danny from school and being friends, so it was just exciting to be in the same house with them.”
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Mark played volleyball for the United States circuit while attending Elizabethtown Area High School and playing basketball at the University of Pittsburgh. Twenty-eight years ago, he started his coaching career as a high school girls’ volleyball coach in Rialto, California.
From 2006 to 2016, Mark worked in the security depart-
ment at Daytona International Speedway. He got involved with the city of Ormond Beach’s youth recreational baseball league, the Golden Spikes, took over the basketball league, and eventually joined Pop Warner football as an assistant coach. Eventually, he became the commissioner and then the president. He stepped down last season.
“Your sacrifice isn’t for you, it’s for the greater good,” he said. “Lift our community, lift our program, our school, lift these students up, make them great young men. That’s the goal you have to keep.”
He has been an assistant football coach at Seabreeze for the past three years. Currently, he is the JV head coach and defensive coordinator and will also assist coach Mike Klein with the varsity linebackers this season.
“He’s Mr. Get Things Done,” Klein said. “As a football coach, you wear a lot of different hats, they say. Mark is not above any of it. He can do handy work. If we need something built, he can build it. If we need something fixed, he can fix it. He’s kind of like a right-hand man type of guy, where he’s always there; he’s always accountable.”
All five brothers played basketball and soccer before committing to football. Kamden will be a junior this year and is a running back for Seabreeze. He has played a variety of positions and goes wherever the coaches need him.
“My parents are great, especially my stepdad, Mark Spada,” Kamden said. “He’s my football coach and kind of yells at me a lot. Makes me a 100% better player. Without him, I don’t know where I’d be right now, especially on this football team.”
As the disciplinary coach, Mark stays on top of the
players’ academic progress. He does whatever it takes to help the kids be successful. Klein said Mark is the perfect example of what he wants the football program’s ideology to be about: It takes a village to raise kids.
“That’s why I love him,” Klein said. “He’s all go, no show. He works hard, he’s extremely dependable, he’s extremely trustworthy, and, above all of it, he just has a true servant’s heart, and he loves the kids. He treats every kid like they were his own.”
As rising seniors, Tristan and Daniel have really come into their own, Klein said, and have matured into the type of leaders the team needs this season. Both brothers said they want to lead their younger siblings and motivate them to perform at a higher level. When they are at home, they said they always talk about football.
“I hope talking football helps,” Tristan said. “I want to make sure they know all the plays and the techniques, and make sure they run it right and learn from their older brothers before they graduate. They’ve been getting better. They’re just young.”
Fifteen-year-old Zachary said Daniel helps with everything since they are both wide receivers, and Tristan shows him how to work out in the weight room.
“It’s cool when Zach and I are both on the field, and I don’t get the ball, and he catches it.
It’s cool,” Daniel said. Klein said there are usually more than just the Spada family hanging out at their house. Sometimes there are enough players there to have their own football team.
“Even though Ormond Beach is a small community, it’s still a large community to us, because we want to love everybody,” Mark said.
Lori and Mark Spada take a photo together after Seabreeze football team’s beach workout at Andy Romano Beachfront Park.
Seabreeze wide receiver Daniel Mellen-Spada (19). Photos by Michele Meyers
Austin Miller watch the 7-on-7 action from the sidelines at Father Lopez.
Kamden Miller at Andy Romano Beachfront Park.
Seabreeze wide receiver Zachary Mellen-Spada (19) grabs a pass during the 7-on-7 game against Mainland at Father Lopez.
Former FPC baseball player Jace Wilson is the Bulldogs’ new coach
Wilson graduated from FPC in 2019. He has long hoped to come home and coach at his alma mater.
BRENT WORONOFF
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
After finishing his playing career, Jace Wilson had wanted to come home and coach baseball at Flagler Palm Coast High School. He was hoping to get a chance to be an assistant coach, but when the head coaching position opening up last month, Wilson immediately applied and got the job.
FPC athletic director Scott Drabczyk announced Wilson’s hiring on Thursday, July 9.
“We are excited to welcome one of our own back to Flagler Palm Coast,” Drabczyk said.
Wilson replaces Kyle Marsh, who stepped down last month and was subsequently named the new head coach at DeLand High.
Wilson graduated from FPC in 2019 and went on to play baseball at Daytona State College and NCAA Division II Young Harris College (Georgia). This past year, Wilson was a baseball graduate assistant at NAIA national champ Tennessee Wesleyan University, where he went on to earn a master’s degree in sports leadership.
Returning home to coach has long been his goal. For the second consecutive summer, Wilson is coaching a rising freshman travel team for Orlando Baseball Academy. After Wesleyan won the national title this season, Wilson called up FPC
assistant baseball coach Pete Celestino, with whom he has maintained a close relationship over the years, and asked if there were any openings on the Bulldogs’ staff. A few days later Celestino called back to tell him FPC was looking for a new head coach.
“Flagler Palm Coast has always been home,” Wilson said. “It’s just awesome to think that I’m the right guy for the team that built me as a player.”
Wilson brings versatility to the role. He played outfield and pitched at FPC. He filled in at catcher as a sophomore at Daytona State, throwing right-handed even though he is a natural left-handed thrower. As a reward, the DSC coach at the time, Tim Touma, let Wilson play all nine positions during a seven-inning game.
“Jace understands what it means to wear the Bulldog uniform because he has lived it,” Drabczyk said. Wilson said he learned a lot from his FPC head coach, Jordan Butler, as well as from Celestino.
“His son was a grade below me,” Wilson said of Celestino.
“He came in my sophomore year and has been a mentor to me ever since then.”
Wilson played with Aedan Celestino at FPC and at Daytona State.
“Whenever Jace came home in summer time I threw batting practice to him,” Pete Celestino said. “The last couple of years he inquired about coaching at FPC. I was thrilled to death he was interested.”
Wilson will be the fourth FPC head coach that Celestino has assisted. He has coached the Bulldogs’ JV team the last three years. This year, Wilson wants his mentor to be right next to him in the dugout.
“If I can get my staff right and hire a JV coach, I plan on making Pete my right-hand man,” Wilson said.
Wilson said he is looking to bring in two more assistants. He said he is coaching a talented group of players this summer in Orlando, but he is looking forward to coaching his first varsity team.
“Building a culture is the biggest thing, “Wilson said. “The guys know I’m a first year coach. I’ll be going in everyday with my lunch pale packed, and I’ll work until there’s no more work to be done. If we get guys on board, bought in, playing for each other and playing for what’s on the front of their chest, we can go far.”
Celestino said Wilson “lives and breathes the game.”
“We’ve had discussion over past few years over the possibility of him coming back and coaching here when he was ready, and the time is right now, “Celestino said. “I’m excited it’s a former player here. I hope he coaches for many, many, many years.”
Riccio’s walk-off sets the tone in Big Buoys‘ doubleheader sweep
Palm Coast’s summer collegiate wood-bat team bounced back from an 11-10 loss to sweep NSB.
BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
The Palm Coast Big Buoys swept a doubleheader against the New Smyrna Beach Gnarlies on Saturday, July 11, in an Orange State League game at the Indian Trails Sports Complex.
Nathan Riccio hit a walkoff single in the seventh inning to lift the Big Buoys to a 6-5 victory in the first game. In the second game, Skyler
Milheiser belted a three-run home run and Isaac Lopez smashed his second homer in two nights to help Palm Coast trounce the Gnarlies 12-4.
Anthony Ruiz pitched a complete game for the win in the opener. Ruiz allowed five runs on seven hits and struck out six. In the nightcap, winning pitcher Owen McKinley struck out 10 batters.
The first-year Orange State League is a summer collegiate wood-bat league with four teams — the Big Buoys, Gnarlies, St. Augustine Sardines and Cocoa Tailgators.
Palm Coast improved to 6-8 with the doubleheader sweep, which came on the heels of an 11-10 home loss to the Tailgators on Friday, July 10. Lopez went 2 for 3 with
SIDELINES
Pirates’ Strickland to play baseball at Keiser University
Matanzas’ Monty Strickland has signed a letter of intent to play baseball at Keiser University.
“Monty is the type of guy you love having on your team. He always shows up with a positive attitude and is ready to work,” Matanzas baseball coach Sean MacManus said.
“Monty really shined for us in the second half of the season when he took over the starting job at first base. He saved our infielders on more occasions than I can count. ...
I’m super happy to see Monty moving and and playing at the next level.”
Ortiz in N.Y. BMX Hall of Fame
Victor Ortiz of Palm Coast has been selected as a member of the inaugural class of the New York State BMX Hall of Fame. Ortiz was recognized for his his contributions and impact on the sport of BMX in New York State. According to a letter to Ortiz from the New York State BMX Hall of Fame organizing committee, Ortiz “helped shape the history and growth of BMX racing and freestyle for all future generations.”
The induction ceremony is scheduled for Nov. 7 in Albany, New York.
“This induction is a massive honor because you are elected by a group of people you do not even know,” Ortiz
a double, a home run and three RBIs in the loss. Logan Hawkins went 3 for 4 with a double and three RBIs. The Big Buoys scored four runs in the bottom of the sixth to tie the score at 10-10. But the Tailgators scored the go-ahead run in the top of the seventh on an error.
The two teams combined to score 21 runs on 21 hits and 20 walks.
The big Buoys’ game at St. Augustine on July 12 was rained out. They were scheduled to play four home games in four days July 13-16 ending with a game against Cocoa on Thursday, July 16, at 7 p.m. The Big Buoys return home for four more contests in four days, July 19-22, at Indian Trails.
said.
Ortiz said he was elected because of his history with freestyle street riding and for owning a skatepark in New York City — Mullaly BMX Bike Park. Ortiz has only been competing himself in BMX racing for five years, he said, “so I still consider myself a rookie in the racing world.”
Pick-up lacrosse at Wadsworth
PC Pickup Lacrosse will have its third free men’s pick-up lacrosse event of
Jace Wilson, FPC’s new head baseball coach, played for the Bulldogs five years ago. Courtesy photo
TRIBUTES
Paul Richard Seeman III
October 7, 1951- June 26, 2026
Paul Richard Seeman III (Rick) passed away in Palm Coast, FL on June 26, 2026. He was born on October 7, 1951, in Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Rick was the son of the late Patricia Everhart Seeman and Paul R. Seeman Jr. Rick graduated from Uniontown High School in 1969 before attending Slippery Rock University, where he earned his degree in teaching in 1973. He went on to teach at Butler Intermediate High School for 11 years, where he made a positive impact on countless students. Later, he pursued his passion for pharmacy, graduating from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. Rick worked as a pharmacist in several hospitals for many years, concluding his career at Shadyside Hospital before retiring. After his retirement, he moved to Peachtree City, Georgia and lived there for 17
years. Rick was a devoted brother, uncle, great-uncle, and friend who cherished time spent with his family. He is survived by his brother, Jim Seeman; his sisters, Sandy Hudson (David) and Tricia Laskey (John).
He was a loving uncle to Jamie Hudson (Luis), Craig Hudson (Lindsay), Ryan Laskey (Savanna), Tyler Laskey (Laura), Zach Laskey (Arianna), and Leah Hickerson (Ryan). He was also a proud great-uncle to Rydon, Addie, Max, Ellie, Ben, Barrett, Harrison, and Blakely. He was eagerly looking forward to welcoming Parker and Connor later this year. Rick had a love for music, trivia, and travel. He gave his all to his profession. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Jennie Mae Brewster Vandiver
April 21, 1932 - Sep 23, 2026
Jennie Mae Brewster Vandiver was born in Welch, West Virginia. She was baptized at Welch Presbyterian Church, and grew up in the mountain towns of Welch, Logan, Beckley and Summersville. Jennie attended Mary Washington College and received her diploma from West Virginia University in teaching. She taught 9th grade Civics and later became a media specialist in elementary education.
Her 6 children Carol, June, Rob, Cindy, Sam and Andrew were all born into a military family--Jennie’s husband Robert was a B-17 pilot in World War II and served 30 years, retiring as an Air Force Colonel. Robert and Jennie said goodbye to military life in Washington D.C. and moved to Ormond Beach in
1971. Jennie’s sister-in-law
Sheila Vandiver Briley lived in Ormond since the 1940s and welcomed her brother and Jennie by selling them her house on John Anderson Drive.
Jennie was a member of the Ormond Beach Presbyterian Church, Christ United, ERAU Wives Club, a local bridge club that played for 50 years, and Oceanside. From the late 1970s until the 1990s, she worked as librarian at Longstreet Elementary and later Pine Trail Elementary. She and Robert later retired to the North 40 subdivision at Granada and Clyde Morris. In her last four years, Jennie Mae resided in assisted living in Tallahassee and passed away in her sleep at the age of 93.
She joins her mother Maureen Davies Brewster,
A celebration of life service will be held on September 13th. Please reach out to the family for additional details. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Lotus Funeral Services, 460 Palm Coast Pkwy, Ste 3, Palm Coast. Lotusfuneralservices.com
father C.D. Brewster, husband Robert, sisters in law Kathleen, Sheila, Sarah, daughter Carol, aunts, uncles, and other beloved family and friends. Jennie’s six children provided her with 16 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. A memorial service will be held for Jennie on Saturday July 18th 2026 at Ormond Beach Presbyterian Church.
Joanna Warren 1947 - July 3, 2026
Joanna Warren, 79, born in St.Paul MN, passed away on July 3, 2026, leaving behind a loving family and a lasting legacy of kindness, service, and devotion to others. She was the beloved wife of Charles Warren and the cherished mother of two sons, Eric Warren of Denver, Colorado, Mark Warren of Neptune Beach, Florida, and 3 Grandchildren.
The Warren family moved to Flagler County in 1980 from Ithaca New York where she had earned her Master Degree from SUNY Cortland. She shared her lifelong love of teaching as an adjunct faculty member at the original Daytona Beach Community College Campus. She served
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as a founding member of Palm Coast United Methodist Church and in 1983 as the founding director of its preschool. She went on to teach kindergarten at Bunnell Elementary School and helped pioneer the Pre-K early intervention program at Old Kings Elementary School. Together with her husband, Joanna also helped found Flagler County Habitat for Humanity, a reflection of her deep commitment to service and to improving the lives of others.
In her pre-retirement years, she continued to educate, mentor, and encourage others as the real estate education director for Prudential Warren Real Estate. Joanna will be remembered with deep affection for the many lives she touched—as an educator, community builder, wife, mother, and friend. A celebration of life memorial service will be held later this summer.
Donations may be made in her name to the American Cancer Society and Haven Hospice.
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FIRST INSERTION
COLBERT LANDINGS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE ADOPTION OF THE FISCAL YEAR 2027 PROPOSED BUDGET(S); AND NOTICE OF REGULAR BOARD OF SUPERVISORS’ MEETING.
The Board of Supervisors (“Board”) of the Colbert Landings Community Development District (“District”)
FIRST INSERTION
Raton, Florida 33431, Phone (561) 571-0010 (“District Manager’s Office”), during normal business hours or by visiting the District’s website at https:// colbertlandingscdd.net/
The public hearing and meeting are open to the public
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 45 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024 CA 000649 WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR CASCADE FUNDING MORTGAGE TRUST 2024 RM5, Plaintiff, VS. UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, SURVIVING SPOUSE, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEE, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY, THROUGH, UNDER, OR AGAINST THE ESTATE OF THOMAS BERNAL A/K/A TOM BERNAL, DECEASED; THOMAS MATTHEW BERNAL; SEAN MICHAEL BERNAL; NINA MARIE NAHMIAS F/K/A NINA MARIE BERNAL Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that sale will be made pursuant to an Order or Final Judgment. Final Judgment was awarded on April 29, 2026 in Civil Case No. 2024 CA 000649, of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH Judicial Circuit in and for Flagler County, Florida, wherein, WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR CASCADE FUNDING MORTGAGE TRUST 2024 RM5 is the Plaintiff, and UNKNOWN HEIRS, BENEFICIARIES, DEVISEES, SURVIVING SPOUSE, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEE, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY, THROUGH, UNDER, OR AGAINST THE ESTATE OF THOMAS BERNAL A/K/A TOM BERNAL, DECEASED; THOMAS MATTHEW BERNAL; SEAN MICHAEL BERNAL; NINA MARIE NAHMIAS F/K/A NINA MARIE BERNAL are Defendants. The Clerk of the Court, Tom Bexley will
FIRST INSERTION Notice Under Fictitious Name Law
According to Florida Statute Number 865.09
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the Fictitious Name of ORION RESEARCH SOLUTIONS located at 6 LLETHORN PLACE in the City of PALM COAST, Flagler, FL 32164 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
Dated this 13th day of July, 2026 ORION LOGISTICS GROUP INC July 16, 2026 26-00213G
sell to the highest bidder for cash at https:// flagler.realforeclose.com/ on August 21, 2026 at 11:00:00 AM EST the following described real property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 28, BLOCK 14, SUBDIVISION MAP, PINE GROVE, SECTION 26, PALM COAST, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 9, PAGES 20 THROUGH 35, INCLUSIVE, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim before the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed. IMPORTANT AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES
ACT: If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to access court facilities or participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. To request such an accommodation, please contact Court Administration in advance of the date the service is needed: Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, (386) 257-6096. Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711.
Dated this 6th day of July, 2026.
ALDRIDGE PITE, LLP Attorney for Plaintiff 401 W. Linton Blvd. Suite 202-B Delray Beach, FL 33444 Telephone: 561-392-6391 Facsimile: 561-392-6965 By: Zachary Ullman
Digitally signed by Zachary Ullman
DN: CN=Zachary Ullman E=zullman@aldridgepite.com Reason: I am the author of this document
Location: Date: 2026.07.06 13:40:50-04’00’ Foxit PDF Editor Version: 13.1.7 FBN: 106751 Primary E-Mail: ServiceMail@aldridgepite.com 1395-1316B July 16, 23, 2026 26-00204G
FIRST INSERTION Notice Under Fictitious Name Law According to Florida Statute Number 865.09 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the Fictitious Name of Taylor Consulting Group aka ABCD Paradigm located at 6 Flagship Ct in the City of Palm Coast, Flagler, FL 32137 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated this 13th day of July, 2026 Dr. Joyce Taylor July 16, 2026 26-00212G
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2026 CP 000366 Division: 48/Probate IN RE: ESTATE OF GENNADII BALASHOV A/K/A GENNADII BALASHOVE Deceased. The administration of the estate of GENNADII BALASHOV A/K/A GENNADII BALASHOVE, deceased, whose date of death was November 11, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for FLAGLER County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building #1, Suite 5, 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 de-
NOTICE TO CREDITORS (Summary Administration) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2026 CP 243 Division 48 IN RE: ESTATE OF MADELINE PATRICIA STRONG Deceased. TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS OR DEMANDS AGAINST THE ABOVE ESTATE:
You are hereby notified that an Order of Summary Administration has been entered in the estate of Madeline Patricia Strong, deceased, File Number 2026 CP 243, by the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 East Moody Blvd., Bunnell, FL 32110; that the decedent’s date of death was January 11, 2026; that the total value of the exempt and non-exempt assets of the estate is $683,716.83 and that the names and addresses of those to whom it has been assigned by such order are: Name Address
Michael Strong 6518 State Route 220 Waverly, OH 45690
John Strong ODRC Pickaway Correctional Institution 11781 State Route 762 Orient, OH 43146 Christy Boone 314 East 5th Street, Apt. B Owensboro, KY 43202 Penny Beckwith-Carter 633 Market Street, Apt. J1 Piketon, OH 45661 ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE NOTIFIED THAT: All creditors of the estate of the decedent
FIRST INSERTION
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2026 CP 000379 Division: 48 IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBERT RAMSEY CREAL, Deceased. The administration of the estate of ROBERT RAMSEY CREAL, deceased, whose date of death was April 20, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 E. 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
cedent 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 July 16, 2026.
Personal Representative: Daria Balashova 29068 Arroyo Drive Irvine, California 92617
Attorney for Personal Representative: /s/Heather L. Smith Beacon Legacy Law™
John J. Mangan, Jr., Esq. / FL Bar #: 10020
Heather L. Smith, Esq. / FL Bar #: 610593
For the Firm 901 SW Martin Downs Blvd., Ste. 205 Palm City, FL 34990
Telephone: (772) 324-9050
Fax: (772) 919-4291
E-Mail: hsmith@beaconlegacylaw.com
Secondary E-Mail: paralegals@beaconlegacylaw.com
Attorney for Petitioner/ Personal Representative July 16, 23, 2026 26-00210G
and persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent other than those for whom provision for full payment was made in the Order of Summary Administration must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES
SECTION 733.702. ALL CLAIMS AND DEMANDS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING ANY OTHER APPLICABLE TIME PERIOD, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. 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 sections 732.216-732.288 Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. The date of first publication of this Notice is July 16, 2026. Person Giving Notice: Michael Strong 6518 State Route 220 Waverly, Ohio 45690 Attorney for Person Giving Notice 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 July 16, 23, 2026 26-00205G
their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: July 16, 2026. Signed on this 9th day of JULY, 2026. /s/ Carol Pennica CAROL PENNICA Personal Representative P.O. Box 51210 Bowling Green, Kentucky 42102 /s/ R. Kevin Korey R. KEVIN KOREY, ESQUIRE Attorney for Personal Representative Florida Bar No. 89108 KOREY LAW, P. A. 595 W. Granada Blvd., Suite A Ormond Beach, FL 32174
Telephone: (386) 677-3431
Email: kevin@koreylawpa.com
Secondary Email: dwargo@koreylawpa.com July 16, 23, 2026 26-00206G
Division 48 IN RE: ESTATE OF GEORGE JOSEPH LORBECK, JR. Deceased. The administration of the estate of George Joseph Lorbeck, Jr., deceased, whose date of death was June 6, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Kim C. Hammond Justice Center, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Bldg. 1, Bunnell, 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, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is July 16, 2026. /s/ George J. Lorbeck, George Joseph Lorbeck Personal Representative /s/ Jennifer A. McGee Jennifer A. McGee Attorney for Personal Representative Florida Bar Number: 1023165 160 Cypress Point Pkwy, Unit C213 Palm Coast, Florida 32164 Telephone: (386) 320-7300
E-Mail: jennifer@mcgeelawfl.com July 16, 23, 2026 26-00211G
