THE HAMMOCK
Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
VOLUME 2, NO. 13
HE-MAN PAGE 9B
FREE ON NEWSSTANDS | THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
A new art gallery coming soon? The Flagler County planning board approves a special exception for a new art gallery in the Hammock. PAGE 6A
Barile, Staly clash over separation
Beach Golf Resort & Spa hosts That Hammock flavor Hammock annual Food and Wine Classic. PAGE 1B
FCSO releases 11page document after ex-chief deputy speaks out. PAGE 8A INSIDE DENSITY INCREASE
Seminole Woods development moves forward with county approval with 4-1 vote. PAGE 6A
A.I. IN SCHOOLS
Flagler Schools to align A.I. policies to comply with state. PAGE 9A
CAT RESCUER
Ormond-by-the Sea woman saves 700 cats per year. PAGE 4A
Attendees enjoying their time together at the fourth annual Food and Wine Classic. Photo by Rachel Mills
TOP SALE
Home in Hammock Beach sells for $1.9M. PAGE 4B
History gone
rally falls short in loss Close call Matanzas to Menendez. PAGE 8B
One of Bunnell’s oldest buildings has been demolished, taking piece of the city’s history with it.
PAGE 10A
INDEX
Business..................... PAGE 6B Calendar..................... PAGE 2B Cops Corner................PAGE 2A Crossword.................. PAGE 4C Letters....................... PAGE 11A McMillan.................... PAGE 11A Public Notices............ PAGE 5C Schools....................... PAGE 3B Sports......................... PAGE 8B Tributes ...................... PAGE 2C Real Estate................. PAGE 4B
OBSERVER 50 LEANNI WAY, UNIT C3 PALM COAST, FL 32137 Wiley Conner (34) takes a handoff from quarterback Michael McDonough. Photo by Keishia McLendon
*********ECRWSSEDDM**** POSTAL CUSTOMER PALM COAST, FL 32137
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PALM COAST, FL PERMIT 175
2A
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
Paid Advertisement
Why Tinnitus Seems Louder in Quiet— and What You Can Do About It Dr. Indira Alvarez, Au.D., F-AAA If you have tinnitus, you may have noticed something frustrating: the ringing, buzzing, humming, or hissing often seems much louder when the room is quiet. At night, while reading, or when sitting alone, tinnitus can suddenly feel impossible to ignore. But when you are outside, talking with someone, listening to music, or moving through a busier environment, it may seem to fade into the background. That is not your imagination. It is one reason why two of the most useful tinnitus-management tools are also two of the simplest: creating a sound-rich environment and, when hearing loss is present, wearing properly fit hearing aids. Why Quiet Can Make Tinnitus Stand Out Think of tinnitus like a candle. Outside in bright sunlight, a candle flame may barely attract your attention. Put that same candle in a dark room, however, and suddenly it becomes the most noticeable thing in the room. Tinnitus can work the same way. When your surroundings are very quiet, there is less outside sound competing for your brain’s attention. The contrast between tinnitus and silence becomes greater, which can make tinnitus seem more prominent. This effect can be even stronger in people with hearing loss. If hearing loss reduces the amount of everyday sound reaching the brain, tinnitus may have less competition from the outside world. Add Sound—But Don’t Drown Out the Tinnitus One common strategy is called sound enrichment. This simply means adding comfortable, neutral, or pleasant sound to your environment. Examples include: • Soft music • A fan • Ocean or rainfall sounds • Nature sounds • A sound machine • An audiobook or podcast • Low-volume television or radio The goal is not necessarily to completely cover the tinnitus. In many cases, we want to reduce the contrast between tinnitus and silence without making the background sound so loud that it fully masks the tinnitus. Over time, this may help the brain become less interested in the tinnitus signal and allow it to move further into the background. Research supports the use of sound therapy as one option for managing bothersome tinnitus, although studies have not shown that one particular sound—such as white noise, nature sounds, or music—is clearly best for everyone.¹ That is good news. You do not need to find a magical “tinnitus sound.” The best sound is often one that is comfortable, easy to listen to, and simple enough to use consistently. Hearing Aids Can Help in a Different Way For people who have both tinnitus and hearing loss, hearing aids can be especially helpful. Hearing aids restore access to many everyday sounds that may have gradually faded away: birds, footsteps, air conditioning, conversation, dishes, road noise, and other subtle environmental sounds. This gives the brain more real-world sound to listen to. Clinical practice guidelines recommend a hearing-aid evaluation for people who have bothersome tinnitus along with hearing loss, and research has found that many
NEWS BRIEFS Tractor-trailer kills woman lying down on I-95 in Daytona Beach
patients experience a reduction in tinnitus-related distress after appropriately fit amplification. But there is an important detail: The hearing aids need to be fit correctly. Simply putting a hearing aid in the ear is not enough. A hearing aid should be programmed according to the patient’s specific hearing loss and then objectively verified whenever possible. One of the best methods is called Real-Ear Measurement, or REM. During REM, a tiny microphone is placed near the eardrum while the hearing aid is operating. This allows the audiologist to measure exactly how much sound is reaching the ear and determine whether the hearing aid is matching the patient’s prescribed amplification targets. A meta-analysis of 27 studies involving roughly 1,400 participants found that objectively verified hearing-aid fittings were associated with greater reductions in tinnitus loudness than unverified fittings, and in some analyses, greater reductions in tinnitus distress as well.⁸ In other words, one of the most effective “tinnitus features” in a hearing aid may simply be a well-programmed hearing aid that restores the sound you have been missing. What About Built-In Tinnitus Programs? Many modern hearing aids include optional tinnitus sounds such as white noise, ocean waves, or shaped noise. These can be useful for some patients, particularly when additional sound enrichment is needed. However, research has not consistently shown that these specialized programs are better than wellfit amplification alone.⁹ That is why tinnitus treatment should be individualized rather than assuming every patient needs the same sound or the same device. The Goal Is Not Always Silence Successful tinnitus management is not always about making the tinnitus disappear. A more realistic goal is to make tinnitus less noticeable, less emotionally charged, and less important to the brain. For many people, creating a sound-rich environment and restoring missing sound through properly fit hearing aids can be important steps in that process. The goal is not necessarily: “I never hear my tinnitus.” A better goal may be: “I hear it, but I do not have to pay attention to it.” At Palm Coast & Ormond Hearing Center, our mission is to not only provide the best quality hearing care possible, but also to educate the community and help all patients make informed decisions so they can get the care they need and deserve. Visit our website, www.palmcoasthearingcenter. com to learn more and schedule an appointment. We also have a locations in Ormond, learn more at www. Ormondhearingcenter.com.
A woman was killed after she was run over by a tractor-trailer on I-95 in Daytona Beach during the early hours of the morning on Thursday, Sept. 17, Florida Highway Patrol reported. According to FHP, the woman, whose identification by the medical examiner’s office is pending, was lying on the northbound outside lane of the interstate when she was struck by the tractor-trailer at 12:57 a.m. Due to the crash, the tractor-trailer jackknifed on the road. The driver, a 58-year-old Orlando man, remained on the scene. FHP did not report he sustained any injuries. The crash remains under investigation.
Resident lends FCSO deputies canoe to reach stranded fugitive The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office arrested a 28-year-old woman wanted on an out-ofcounty warrant after deputies said she fled into a wooded area and was later found stranded across a canal. According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded on the afternoon of Sept. 17 to a selfstorage business on Airport Road in Ormond Beach to assist with a trespassing call. When deputies arrived, a woman fled into a nearby wooded area. Deputies identified the woman as Tiffani Driggers, 28, and said she had an active fugitive arrest warrant from Walton County for felony violation of probation. FCSO deputies, including its K-9 and Unmanned Aircraft Systems
COPS CORNER SEPT. 15
BAR TAB 2:12 p.m. — 100 block of Williamson Boulevard, Ormond Beach Swindle food operator. As police were completing paperwork for a 39-year-old man who was being placed into police custody under the Marchman Act, a call about a reported theft was dispatched to the department. It involved the man and his unpaid bill at a nearby restaurant. Officers responded to a local hotel after receiving a call that the man was threatening death by suicide, according to a police report, as a friend
units, searched the area with assistance from the Volusia Sheriff’s Office and its Air One helicopter but were unable to immediately locate her. Later that evening, a resident on Windsong Court near the location of the earlier call reported hearing a woman calling for help from a wooded peninsula. Deputies responded and made voice contact with the woman across a canal, identifying her as Driggers. She told deputies she was exhausted, unable to cross the water and may have injured her ankle. According to FCSO, deputies requested assistance from the agency’s Marine Unit, but a nearby homeowner offered them a canoe. Two deputies used the canoe to cross the canal, locate Driggers and bring her back across the water. She was evaluated by Volusia County Fire Rescue before being taken into custody. Driggers was arrested on the fugitive warrant and transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, where she was being held without bond. FCSO said Driggers has a criminal history that includes grand theft, possession of controlled substances, giving a false name, resisting arrest and leaving the scene of an accident.
Three arrested with wanted man at Palm Coast residence Three people were arrested Sept. 17 after Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputies went to a Palm Coast home looking for a man wanted on a felony warrant. According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, members of its Problem Area Crime Enforcement Unit, Fugitive Apprehension Unit and patrol division responded to a residence on Ballenger Lane to serve a fugitive warrant. Deputies believed Jeremiah Myke, 20, of Palm Coast, was at the home. Myke
had reported receiving alarming text messages. Once at the hotel, officers spotted the man walking onto the property. Police noted he exhibited signs of intoxication, including the odor of alcohol and an unsteady gait. The man requested he be transported under a Marchman act for evaluation and for help with alcohol abuse, the police report states. Then, the restaurant’s call came in. The man admitted that he left without paying his bill. He told police he was intending to go back to his hotel room and sleep. He had also left his wallet at the restaurant. The restaurant wished to press charges.
SEPT. 16
‘I GOT GREEDY’ 8:29 p.m. — State Road 100, Palm Coast
Mobile Flooring Showroom® 3,000 + samples FREE In Home Consultations Start to Finish Every Step of the Way!
Schedule Your FREE Consultation
was wanted on a felony arrest warrant for criminal mischief over $1,000. Deputies said they encountered Julianna Colon, 18, and Crystelle Colon, 23, and asked them about Myke’s whereabouts. Both women told deputies that Myke was not at the residence, had left the previous day and that they did not know where he had gone. FCSO said deputies believed the women appeared nervous and were being deceptive. After the women denied deputies permission to search the residence, deputies left the property but continued surveillance. A short time later, deputies said they saw Myke and Julianna Colon leave the residence in a vehicle. Deputies conducted a traffic stop and took both into custody. Deputies then returned to the residence and spoke with Crystelle Colon again. This time, she told deputies that Myke had been inside the residence during their earlier conversation. According to FCSO, Myke was arrested on the outstanding warrant. Julianna Colon and Crystelle Colon were arrested on charges of obstruction without violence. The Sheriff’s Office alleges the two women knowingly lied to deputies about Myke being inside the residence. All three were transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility. Myke was being held on $5,000 bond. Julianna Colon and Crystelle Colon were each released on $500 bond.
Flagler deputies: Woman stole more than $6,500 in lottery tickets A Palm Coast woman was arrested after an investigation into the theft of more than $6,500 worth of Florida Lottery tickets from a Circle K gas station, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responded to
Petit theft. A 32-year-old man was arrested after deputies said he stole trading cards from a Palm Coast retailer — months after allegedly stealing trading cards from the same store. When a deputy asked the man why he stole from the store, he reportedly had a simple explanation: he “got away with it once before and got greedy.” The man was arrested on two petit theft charges and taken to jail.
SEPT. 18
SCOOTING AWAY 2:19 p.m. — State Road 100, Palm Coast Grand theft. A 42-year-old Palm Coast woman and a 45-year-old man were arrested after deputies said they stole two electric scooters from a local retailer and were
Carpet
Laminate
Tile
(386) 356-8312
Vinyl
Wood
the Palm Coast gas station on Aug. 26 after receiving a report of a delayed theft. FCSO said an employee had accidentally printed 10 lottery tickets valued at $660 each on Aug. 9 and placed them in a manager’s book behind the counter after receiving advice from another employee. The employee resigned the following day for what he told detectives were unrelated reasons. Circle K management initially believed the employee who printed the tickets had taken them. Detectives with FCSO’s General Assignment Unit reviewed surveillance footage, interviewed employees and management and examined Florida Lottery records as part of the investigation. Lottery records showed the tickets began being scanned and winnings processed at the same Circle K on Aug. 11, the day after the employee resigned. Surveillance video showed assistant manager Leandra Tarpley, 31, of Palm Coast, scanning and processing the tickets, including winning tickets. Detectives said they crossreferenced the surveillance footage with lottery records and determined Tarpley scanned the tickets, paid out winnings and used the payouts to purchase additional scratch-off tickets while taking the remaining cash. Tarpley told detectives she had scanned tickets she found behind the counter but denied knowing they were the tickets originally printed by the employee. She also said she did not receive money from the winnings and only received free tickets. According to FCSO, lottery records and surveillance video contradicted her account and showed her receiving payouts. Detectives arrested Tarpley at the gas station on Sept. 15 on a grand theft charge. She was taken to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility and later released on a $2,500 bond.
later spotted near Palm Coast City Hall with the scooters. According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, the scooters were stolen in separate incidents on Sept. 18. During one of the thefts, the suspects allegedly removed packaging and merchandise protection from a scooter, placed it in a shopping cart and walked past all points of sale without paying. Later that day, a deputy driving past Palm Coast City Hall spotted two people who matched the descriptions of the suspects. The pair were sitting near two electric scooters and a bicycle, with scooter boxes in nearby bushes. The man was also reading a user manual for one of the scooters, deputies said. The two denied being at the store and told deputies they had purchased a scooter from a man for about $75 but couldn’t figure out how to make it work. Deputies said the two scooters were valued at a combined $759. Both were arrested. PORCH PIRATE 5:02 p.m. — First block of Mayfield Terrace, Ormond Beach Petit theft. An Ormond Beach resident called police after her package was stolen by a woman in a white baseball cap. According to a police report, the incident occurred two days prior at around 1:13 p.m. The resident’s Ring camera captured the suspect walking up to the home’s porch, tucking the package under her shirt and walking away. The package was valued at $16. The suspect may have left some evidence behind, as the resident spotted some jewelry on the welcome mat. In the end, the resident opted not to press charges.
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Pilots take time to encourage a future pilot: pilots Jessica Garcia and Emely Quintanilla, future pilot Charlie Kinney, and pilots Brittney Burwell and Rene Clemens.
Reaching for the skies Girls in Aviation Day hopes to inspire the next generation of women in the industry. ABE MILLS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Attendees from all over Volusia County and beyond joined the party for the fourth annual Girls in Aviation Day sponsored by the Daytona Beach chapter of Women in Aviation Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Sheltair hangars near Daytona International Airport. The event featured multiple prop planes on display, a jet, and a helicopter, facepainting, a rivet station, educational institutions and employers in the field of aviation, a NASA
robot dog, a station for sending a postcard to space, and more. “As a small chapter, we are truly honored and privileged to be able to put this event on for over 1,000 attendees each and every year,” said Erika Barger, scholarship chairwoman for Women in Aviation. “We’ve got sponsors, we’ve got vendors, and we have the static aircraft.” The local chapter plans events like Girls in Aviation Day in an effort to fulfill the Women in Aviation mission. “My hope for everyone leaving here today is to have some form of inspiration, to just spark a little bit of their dream moving forward,” said Alyssa Black, certified flight instructor, pilot, and student success adviser.
The girls of all ages were paying attention. “I get to have a squishy airplane because I want to be a pilot when I grow up,” said grade schooler Anastasia Berstler. Ten-year-old Charlie Kinney came to the event already knowing exactly what she wants to do. “I want to be a Blue Angels pilot,” Kinney said. “They fly planes and they do shows around the world. I watched a show once, and then I decided that’s what I wanted to be.” There were several pilots attending the event just hoping to share as much encouragement and knowledge about the industry as they could. “There’s no dream that is not capable of becoming a reality,” pilot Greta Miquelena
Siblings Kenzie, Kaia, and Kayden Vanderhoff enjoy sitting in a plane at the Girls in Aviation Day event. Photos by Rachel Mills
said. Daytona Chapter of Women in Aviation Vice President Linda Britt acknowledges that knowing what’s available and knowing how to proceed are vital to the process. “[We want] to give young girls resources on information on how to join the aviation industry, whether they want to be a pilot, air traffic control, airplane mechanics,” Britt said. There are education programs for everything from being a pilot to working in mechanics or being an instructor. “I’m actually the scholarship chairman for our local Women in Aviation International Daytona Beach chapter,” Barger said. “Students can apply for those scholarships that goes towards flight training or other flight careers.” For more information on The Daytona Chapter of Women in Aviation and their events go to https://www.wai. org/
Women in Aviation International Daytona Beach Chapter leaders: Alyssa Black, certified flight instructor; Linda Britt, vice president of Daytona Beach Chapter; Erika Barger, scholarship chairwoman of the Daytona Beach Chapter
Girl Scout Troop 2042 poses in front of a prop plane.
Transform YOUR HOME
WITH NEW FLOORING!
We provide professional installation, or you can purchase products for DIY, or your contractor. Family Owned, Family Operated, Family Values
T&M FLOORS
• Carpet • Hardwood • Custom Area Rugs • Tile • Stone • Laminate • Vinyl Planks • Backsplashes • Bathroom Remodeling • Fireplace Fronts 275 S. Yonge St. • Ormond Beach Across from Kalin Furniture
T-Mfloors.com tmfloors@tmfloors.com 386-236-8635
3A
4A
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
Randie to the rescue: one pivotal volunteer in trap-neuter-return effort Since 2020, Randie Zimmerman has helped address local feral and abandoned cat populations. JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Randie Zimmerman rescues over 700 cats a year. A massage therapist and personal trainer, Zimmerman volunteers with Concerned Citizens for Animal Welfare as their head trapper and works with the Ormond Beach Police Department’s Animal Services division. Since 2020, Zimmerman, of Ormond-by-the-Sea, has dedicated herself to helping address feral and abandoned cat populations through trapneuter-return programs, working with local rescues and oftentimes paying out of her own pocket for the medical care for the cats she helps. “My whole life revolves around it,” Zimmerman said. “So I just work really hard. I do whatever fundraising I can for myself and other rescues.” Her rescue work began during the COVID-19 pandemic. She and a few friends used to meet at Michael Crotty Bicentennial Park and one day, they
Before: What a kitten looked like when Randie Zimmerman trapped her.
spotted a pregnant cat. They got her some food and Zimmerman started reaching out to rescues and animal control to see how the cat could be helped. She was given information on what to do, but said no one she spoke with was in a position to help. Then, the next time she went to go feed the pregnant cat, Zimmerman was met by a colony of six cats. “Then as the kittens started arriving, I’m learning how to trap and everything, I’m getting the adults fixed,” Zimmerman recalled. “Now I’m catching the kittens, rehoming the kittens. But it ended up there were 16 cats at that colony.” Peggy Jones became her first volunteer. They fed the cats every day until 2024, when the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission ordered the cats be removed from the park. Zimmerman and Jones spent Christmas that year trapping the remaining members of the colony, of which there were six. Many cats in the colony died after they were hit by cars or due to medical issues complicated by Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. They brought the cats to Zimmerman’s house, where she had built enclosures, to determine which cats were
“When you see the faces of these kittens, especially sick ones, when you know if it was another day they probably would have died, or if they do die, you know that they didn’t die out on the pavement and run over at Dunkin’ Donuts. You know what I mean? So when you think about that, that keeps you going.” RANDIE ZIMMERMAN
adoptable and which weren’t. Jones died a year and a half ago, and Zimmerman now has her cat Yogi, one of the adoptable members of the Bicentennial colony. “When she was dying ... she said, ‘I have to tell you, when you asked me to help you with the cats, it was the first time I ever felt like a part of anything in my life,’” Zimmerman recalled. The majority of cats she traps are mothers and kittens. That’s where rescues and animal control agencies need the most help, as trapping mother cats and their kittens can take hours. Sometimes, six to eight hours a day. And Zimmerman knows there’s no time to be wasted. Delaying rescuing kittens could mean that some won’t make it due to the elements, cars or predators. As a result, Zimmerman often rescues “bottle babies,” or orphaned newborn kittens in need of round-the-clock feeding. “I’m terrified of bottle babies,” Zimmerman said.
After: What the kitten looks like after adoption.
Randie Zimmerman holds a litter of kittens. Courtesy photos
That’s where Tiny Tales Rescue comes in. Zimmerman met founder Amanda Witt at Cat Care Clinic in Ormond Beach, where Witt works as a technician. Zimmerman brings cats in to the clinic for medical care, both those she rescues personally and through CCFAW. After learning that Witt fostered bottle babies, Zimmerman called her late one night asking for help. “Essentially, she gave me the first bottle baby for Tiny Tales Rescue,” Witt said. Sometimes people don’t realize how much a community needs cat rescues and TNR programs, Witt said. There’s so many cats that need help and the work they do isn’t a hobby or a passion project — it’s something they put a lot of themselves into, Witt said. Zimmerman is no exception. “The amount of cats that she rescues is insane and it
only is making a dent, essentially,” Witt said. “So we need more people like her for sure, and there is such a need for that too because the TNR programs are so important.” Witt officially founded Tiny Tales Rescue in November 2025. On Saturday, Ormond Beach Police Department hosted an adoption event for the local rescue. Three cats were adopted. Zimmerman was among the volunteers helping at the event. “She’s like that go-to human,” Witt said. “Not only does she do all the TNR stuff and saving all these cats, but she also is like a wealth of information. She will give advice if needed. She’s just one of those humans that just wants to help.” The love of cats runs in Zimmerman’s family. Her father used to run a car dealership in Boston, where she grew up. When he was seeking to
expand the business, he began to buy homes surrounding the dealership. As people moved, they left their cats behind and her father and her aunt began caring for them. “My father had a running tab with the Massachusetts Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, MSPCA, because he was paying for so many spays and neuters,” Zimmerman said. They ended up with about 30 cats on the property and her father left one house standing to provide them with shelter. When he sold his business about 10 years ago, he made it a condition of the sale that the new owner would not tear the house down until the last cat died of natural causes. And the condition held. When the last cat died three years ago, the new owner called Zimmerman’s father, who came out and buried the cat. Rescue work can be tiring. What keeps Zimmerman going? The friends that check in and encourage her to do the best she can, even as Zimmerman stretches herself thin, receiving calls at all hours of the days and nights from people seeking help. It never feels like she’s doing enough, she said. And then she looks at the faces of the cats and kittens she rescues. “When you see the faces of these kittens, especially sick ones, when you know if it was another day they probably would have died, or if they do die, you know that they didn’t die out on the pavement and run over at Dunkin’ Donuts,” Zimmerman said. “You know what I mean? So when you think about that, that keeps you going.” Email jarleene@observer localnews.com.
More of the Care You Need, Closer to Home We’re expanding care across Volusia and Flagler counties with new providers, more specialties and greater appointment availability — making it easier to get the care you need, closer to home.
Andrew Alabd, MD
Rody Georges Bou Chaaya, MD
Eric Prado, MD
Gastroenterology Orange City
26-EFD-4541629451
Gastroenterology Palm Coast
Whitney Thorne, DO Vascular Surgery Palm Coast
Interventional Cardiology Port Orange
Victoria Kuta, MD
Ear, Nose and Throat Daytona Beach
Bruno Machado, MD
Anthony Rainho, MD
Daniela Sepulveda, MD
Cesar Taborda, MD
Abraham Titus, MD
Brahmananda Rao Yadlapalli, MD
Advanced Gastroenterology DeLand
Hematology and Oncology Orange City
Next-week appointments available at AdventHealth.com
Endocrinology Daytona Beach
Neurology Palm Coast
Urology Palm Coast
Gastroenterology DeLand
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
5A
SMA Healthcare Foundation’s annual celebration event raises $281,000 More than $29,000 benefited the Larry and Joan Kelly Scholarship Fund. SMA HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION
The SMA Healthcare Foundation celebrated its Annual Dinner Celebration & Auction on Aug. 26 at the DAYTONA 500 Club, raising $281,000 to support the mission and programs of SMA Healthcare, including more than $29,000 for the Larry and Joan Kelly Scholarship Fund. This year’s event introduced a fresh format centered around a fireside chat between event emcee Kim Coon and returning honoree and NAS-
CAR Cup Series driver Austin Dillon. Their conversation offered guests a more personal look at Dillon’s career, experiences and life beyond the racetrack. NASCAR champion and longtime friend of the Foundation Michael Waltrip also joined the conversation. The event featured two check presentations in support of SMA Healthcare’s mission. Volusia County Sheriff Michael Chitwood, on behalf of the Volusia Sheriff’s Office, presented a check for $35,000, while Randy and Daniel Dye of 71MVP presented a check for $25,000. The live auction generated $65,000 of the event’s total revenue. More than $29,000 of the evening’s proceeds benefit-
Kelly Scholarship Bear Auction winner with Michael Waltrip.
ed the Larry and Joan Kelly Scholarship Fund, which provides educational opportunities for students pursuing their academic goals. The evening concluded with SMA Healthcare’s traditional “coin out” ceremony. The ceremony is modeled after the tradition used to recognize clients as they graduate from SMA’s residential treatment programs. The commemorative coin features the SMA Healthcare logo on one side and the Serenity Prayer on the other, representing recovery, perseverance and the journey forward. Lex Cunniff, a former SMA client who later became an SMA employee, presented the coin to Dillon and shared her own story of recovery. Cunniff spoke about her journey as a client receiving services at SMA and the path that ultimately brought her back to the organization as an employee. “The Annual Dinner is always a special opportunity to bring together people who believe in the work of SMA Healthcare and want to make a difference in our communities,” said Susan Capone Rode, executive director of the SMA Healthcare Foundation. “We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors, donors, auction participants, volunteers and
Heather Shubirg, SMA Foundation board chair; Susan Capone Rode, SMA Foundation executive director; Ivan Cosimi, SMA Healthcare CEO; and Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood. Courtesy photos
guests whose generosity made it possible to raise $281,000. Their support allows us to
continue investing in programs, services and opportunities that create meaningful
impact throughout the communities SMA serves.”
Ormond Beach 42 nd Annual Senior Games
20 26
Oct. 23 - Oct. 31, 2026 TORCH SPONSOR
Everyone 50 years of age or older interested in improving his or her lifestyle is encouraged to participate in the Ormond Beach Senior Games. Come and Enjoy Fun, Fellowship and Friendly Competition!
Env_700 W EMB_PMS_OTL013125.pdf 1 1/31/2025 9:22:56 AM
2026 Sporting Events
GOLD SPONSOR C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
SILVER SPONSOR CMY
K
Printing & Design by GraphicSolutionsUSA.com
BRONZE SPONSOR
Basketball Shooting* Bowling* Golf* Pickleball* Powerlifting Shuffleboard* Swimming* Table Tennis* Tennis* Track & Field*
* Visit our Schedule subject toOrmond change. Beach Email: srgamesob@gmail.com for updates. Facebook 41st Annual 20 25 Page! ALL Seniors Are Welcome To Senior Games Participate! Requires Local Level Qualification in order to enter State Games.
Oct. 17 - Oct. 25, 2
REGISTER TODAY !
“This local Senior Games is sanctioned by the Florida Sports Foundation and is a required qualifier for the Florida Senior Games State Championships.”
SCAN QR CODE TO REGISTER AT:
Everyone 50 years of age or older interested in improving his or her lifestyle is encouraged to participate in the Ormond Beach Senior Games. Come and Enjoy Fun, Fellowship and Friendly Competition!
OBSeniorGames.org
Registration Fee $20 – Includes: Official T-Shirt & Participation in One Event. Additional Events are $5 each. Registration Deadline: Monday, September 28, 2026 REGISTER AT:
OBSeniorGames.org Registration Fee $20 – Includes: Official T-Shirt & Participation in One Event. Additional Events are $5 each. Registration Deadline: Friday, September 30, 2025
Schedule subject to change. Email: srgamesob@gmail.com for updates.
ALL Seniors Are Welcome To Participate!
6A
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
Seminole Woods development moves forward with county approval Commissioners approved changes 4-1, with Andy Dance casting the lone dissenting vote. RICH CARROLL MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER
The Flagler County Commission approved land-use and zoning changes for a proposed 119-acre mixed-use development along Seminole Woods Boulevard, despite concerns from nearby residents. Commissioners approved both measures 4-1 on Sept.
14, with Commissioner Andy Dance casting the dissenting vote. The first changed the property’s future land-use designation from Agriculture and Timberlands and Commercial Low Intensity to Mixed Use High Intensity. The second rezoned the property from Agriculture to Planned Unit Development. The property is owned by MPC Lots LLC. Richard Smith and Nika Hosseini are listed as the applicants. The county’s analysis considered a maximum development scenario of up to 502 residential units and approximately 414,000 square feet of commercial space. The proj-
ect’s conceptual master plan designates about 61 acres for residential development, 23 acres for commercial uses, nearly 19 acres for stormwater and 16 acres for common areas. Residential density will be limited to an average of seven units per acre. Commercial development will be limited to a floor area ratio of 0.2, half of the maximum normally allowed under the Mixed Use High Intensity designation. Flagler County Principal Planner Simone Kenny said the property is in Flood Zone X and may contain pockets of isolated wetlands. She said state agencies did not sub-
mit any comments that could form the basis of a challenge to the land-use amendment, although the Florida Department of Transportation requested continued coordination as more detailed traffic studies are completed. The development will return to the County Commission for review of a more detailed PUD site development plan. The county may require updated traffic analyses during future platting and site-plan reviews and will coordinate with FDOT on its review of the Seminole Woods Boulevard corridor. Attorney Michael Chiumento III, representing the
applicant, said: “There’ll be a more detailed level of traffic analysis when we come back for actual development on platting or site plan.” Commissioners added several conditions before approving the rezoning. A proposed view-protection area separating portions of the development from existing neighborhoods was increased from 25 feet to 40 feet. The buffer must reach 80% opacity within three years, meaning landscaping must block at least 80% of the view into the development. Commercial development will also be prohibited within a designated area near exist-
ing homes. In addition, the developer must submit plans for the project’s first phase within 10 years or return to the commission to request an extension. Several residents urged commissioners to reject or postpone the project. Dance was not convinced the project was appropriate for the area. “Everything in the surrounding area is, in gross density, less than three residential units per acre. We’re going up to seven,” Dance said. “I don’t personally think that it’s a good fit for the area.” Email rich@observerlocal news.com.
Is a new art gallery headed to The Hammock? Scenic A1A shows support Flagler County planning board approved a special exception for at 5999 N. Ocean Shore Blvd. RICH CARROLL MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER
A proposed art studio/art gallery and professional office along North Ocean Shore Boulevard received unanimous approval from the Flagler County Planning and Development Board on Sept. 8. The board approved a special exception for the project at 5999 N. Ocean Shore Blvd. The property is in the R/C, or Residential/Limited Commercial, zoning district, where a professional office and art studio/art gallery are
allowed through the special exception process. County staff said the property is on the east side of North Ocean Shore Boulevard. The site’s future land use designation is Mixed Use: Low Intensity. Staff said there are no wetlands on the property, although the rear portion is within Flood Zone AE. Plans call for an approximately 5,000-square-foot art gallery and a 2,400-squarefoot art studio, with 38 parking spaces. The site would also include a 40-foot buffer along the A1A Scenic Corridor and a 25-foot landscape buffer between the project and neighboring residential properties. The project requires the reconfiguration of two properties that are under common ownership. All commercial use associated with the special exception would be limited to Proposed Parcel A. If the spe-
Plans call for an approximately 5,000-square-foot art gallery and a 2,400-square-foot art studio, with 38 parking spaces. The site would also include a 40-foot buffer along the A1A Scenic Corridor and a 25-foot landscape buffer between the project and neighboring residential properties.
Dennis Clark, speaking on behalf of Scenic A1A PRIDE, addresses the Flagler County Planning and Development Board during its Sept. 8 meeting. Screenshot
cial exception is approved, the applicant must submit a site development plan for review and approval by the county’s Technical Review Committee before any permits are issued.
A representative from Stephenson, Wilcox & Associates, speaking on behalf of the property owner and applicant, told the board the proposal was designed as a lowintensity use compatible with the surrounding area. “We believe the art gallery blends harmoniously with the residential surrounding areas, and it is one of the most low-impact and culturally enriching uses possible for the space,” the representative said. The representative said the
applicant had also met with the Scenic A1A PRIDE Committee to discuss the proposal. During public comment, Dennis Clark, speaking for Scenic A1A PRIDE, said the project met the county’s land development requirements and that the organization supported approval. Board member Timothy Connor expressed support for the project. “I think this is exactly the kind of stuff that we should be doing up in the Hammock and approving,” Connor said.
“I think this is exactly the kind of stuff that we should be doing up in the Hammock and approving.” TIMOTHY CONNOR, planning board member
The board unanimously approved the special exception with the conditions outlined by county staff. Those include limiting the property to the approved professional office and art studio/art gallery uses, keeping all parking on site, screening refuse containers from public view and complying with the county’s marine sea turtle lighting requirements. The property reconfiguration must also be completed, with new deeds recorded in Flagler County’s public records.
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
TIRED OF FILLING IN THE BLANKS? In a crossword, guessing is part of the fun. But in a conversation, it can get tiring.
INTRODUCING THE
Sensia
™
ReSound Sensia uses AI-powered noise reduction to help make speech clearer and background noise less distracting. HELP MAKE SPEECH CLEARER AI-powered noise reduction helps make background noise less distracting. ADJUSTS AUTOMATICALLY Sound settings adapt as your surroundings change. RECHARGEABLE OPTIONS Choose from available rechargeable styles to fit your needs.
TRY ReSound Sensia RISK-FREE FOR 45 DAYS NO COST, NO OBLIGATION
PLUS, WE ALWAYS PROVIDE THESE SERVICES:
FREE
FREE
FREE
FREE
Verify that your current hearing aids work properly.
It is important to have your hearing checked annually.
Ensure that your hearing loss isn’t just earwax buildup!
We can test your hearing in the comfort of your own home.
DEVICE TUNE-UP HEARING EXAM VIDEO OTOSCOPY IN-HOME TESTING
OTHER DIGITAL SPECIALS
100% Digital Open-Fit BTE
WAS $ 795
100% Digital ITE
100% Digital CIC
WAS $ 995
100% Micro CIC
(Behind-the-Ear)
NOW $395/ea
The Lowest-Cost Digital Hearing Aids Available Anywhere
(Completely-in-Canal))
NOW $495/ea
(Up to 40db Loss)
WAS 995
$
(In-the-Ear)
NOW $395/ea
(Completely-in-Canal))
WAS 1995
$
NOW $595/ea
5-Star Rated by Patients on CONTACT FOR CAREER OPPORTUNITIES:
info@amhchearing.com
¡Hablamos Español!
Clinics located in Florida & Arizona
Palm Coast
(386) 300-0122
Ormond Beach
(386) 230-9499
1000 Palm Coast Pkwy SW, Ste 109
1275 W Granada Blvd, Ste 4C
1333 Saxon Dr
Westbound on Granada – in plaza across the road from Chipotle
In Publix Plaza on beach side, next to PrimeCare Urgent Care
Adjacent Plaza from Wells Fargo - Next to Emmanuel’s Closet
Port Orange
(386) 387-7315
Voted the
New Smyrna Beach NOW OPEN
BEST
(386) 308-2180
DeLand
(386) 277-5090
Hearing Aid / Hearing Specialist Center
Orange City
(386) 241-9979
733 Dunlawton Ave, Ste 101
1702 N Woodland Blvd, Ste 102
921 Town Center Dr, Ste 300
Arman Professional Center - Across from VyStar Credit Union
Next to Quest Diagnostics and UPS, across from Walmart
Next to Water’s Edge Dermatology, Left of Orange City Town Center Clock Tower
7A
8A
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
Barile and Staly post dueling versions of Barile’s departure from FCSO Joe Barile shares grievances with Sheriff Rick Staly’s approach, while Staly said he lost confidence in Barile. RICH CARROLL MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER
Former Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Joe Barile says he did not plan to resign when he walked into an unexpected meeting with Sheriff Rick Staly on Sept. 10. In an 11-page statement released after his departure, Barile provided his account of what led to the abrupt end of his nearly 20-year career with the Sheriff’s Office, saying he was given the option to resign after being told he was no longer fulfilling the chief deputy role as Staly expected. After Barile made his side known on social media, Staly responded by making his own notes public. He said he had already decided to end Barile’s employment and gave him the choice of resigning or being formally terminated. Here are the two sides of the story. BARILE’S ACCOUNT
Barile said he and Staly had developed different views on how the agency should be led and that he ultimately felt he could no longer perform the job in the way Staly wanted. “Yes, I was given the option to resign, which I am thankful Sheriff Staly gave me that opportunity,” Barile wrote. “I could no longer fulfill my role in the way Sheriff Staly expected me to do so. I do not share the same views or opinions as him in many areas, and that is not healthy for any organization.” Barile also sought to dispel speculation surrounding his sudden departure. He said he was not facing an internal affairs investigation or threat of one and had not resigned because he had accepted another job. He specifically denied a rumor that
to be involved in my community.”
‘Decision to resign’?
Former Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Joe Barile resigned from the agency on Sept. 10 after nearly 20 years of service. Screenshot
he was leaving FCSO for Axon, a law enforcement technology company. Barile also said he did not resign just before becoming eligible for retirement. The 39-year-old said he would have begun his 20th year of service on Jan. 31, 2027, and was still years away from meeting retirement eligibility requirements. Barile said Staly gave him reasons for believing he was no longer fulfilling his duties as chief deputy, but Barile characterized those reasons as involving “rumors, speculation, opinionated facts, or concerns” that he said had previously been addressed. He said the reasons were not related to his job performance, dedication or disciplinary issues. Barile acknowledged that his tenure as chief deputy was not without problems. He wrote that after taking the position, he became overwhelmed and stressed and, at times, had a short temper and spoke to employees in ways he described as “unprofessional and unacceptable.” He said he apologized to the employees involved, sought feedback from command staff and worked to change his behavior. Barile said he informed Staly about the issue and that Staly supported his efforts to correct it. Barile also described broader differences between himself and Staly over man-
Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly. File photo by Brian McMillan
agement and leadership. He wrote that he felt he had little authority over operational decisions and said their morals and values differed. He added: “I want to make it very clear that I am not accusing Sheriff Staly of ever being unethical or doing anything illegal or anything remotely close,” Barile wrote. “He also never asked me to do anything of the sort.” Barile then listed several of his own leadership principles, including treating employees as people rather than “tools,” considering merit when making promotions and assignments and not using employees or residents as “political pawns.” He also criticized the practice of publicizing some arrests on social media. “I do not believe in publicly shaming people, adults and juveniles, who made one poor decision and putting it on social media as a trophy,” Barile wrote. “We are there to serve and protect the community, not shame and ridicule them.” Barile had served with FCSO since Jan. 31, 2007, and was appointed chief deputy in January 2025. His assignments over the years included Community Policing, Investigative Services, Homeland Security and the Special Investigation Unit. When FCSO announced Barile’s resignation on Sept. 10, Staly said the agency respected his decision. “We respect Joe’s decision
NOTICE OF PROPOSED TAX INCREASE The TOWN OF BEVERLY BEACH, has tentatively adopted a measure to increase its property tax levy.
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office’s initial announcement on Sept. 10 did not disclose that Sheriff Rick Staly had decided then-Chief Deputy Joe Barile could no longer remain employed by the agency. Instead, the agency said it respected Barile’s “decision to resign” and wished him well. It also announced that the chief deputy position would remain vacant because of staffing and budget concerns. Barile had worked for FCSO since January 2007 and was appointed chief deputy in January 2025. In his statement released Sept. 16, Barile said he does not plan to leave Flagler County or join another law enforcement agency and intends to remain involved in the community.
to resign from the agency and move his life in a new direction. We wish Joe the best in his future endeavors,” Staly said in the FCSO news release. Barile’s resignation letter at the time said he was ready to “start a new chapter” after nearly 20 years with the agency. FCSO also announced that the chief deputy position would remain vacant because of staffing and budget concerns, with the duties divided among the division chiefs, chief of staff and sheriff. In his new statement, however, Barile made clear that leaving FCSO does not mean leaving Flagler County. He said he has no plans to join another law enforcement agency or move away and intends to remain involved in the community. Barile said his goal since early in his career had been to one day run for Flagler County sheriff after Staly retired, a goal he said he had openly discussed with Staly as far back as 2016. He did not say in the statement whether he now plans to run for sheriff. “This is my home, and you are all my family, and no one will take that from me,” Barile wrote. “I do not know what my next chapter holds, but I do know that I will continue
STALY’S ACCOUNT
FCSO released documents on Sept. 16 that the agency says detail the reasons Staly had lost confidence in Barile’s leadership. The documents include notes prepared for a Sept. 10 separation meeting, a proposed revocation of Barile’s executive appointment and other records related to his departure. The release came hours after Barile publicly addressed his resignation in an 11-page statement. In its response, FCSO said Staly typically does not publicly discuss non-criminal personnel matters but decided to release the records after Barile issued his statement. “At the conclusion of the meeting, Mr. Barile chose to resign in lieu of formal termination as he didn’t want the Sheriff’s notes to become public,” the Sheriff’s Office said in its statement. FCSO characterized Barile’s statement as a “diatribe of a disgruntled former employee” and said Staly would have no further comment. The separation notes provide a significantly different account of the circumstances surrounding Barile’s departure than the initial announcement from FCSO on Sept. 10. According to the notes, Staly told Barile during the meeting that his decision had already been made and that he had lost confidence in Barile’s ability to continue as chief deputy. Staly wrote that the decision was not based on one incident but what he described as a “sustained pattern of leadership conduct and judgment.” Staly’s notes allege that Barile’s direct reports had expressed “fear and apprehension” when dealing with him and that members of the leadership team reported being yelled at, subjected to profanity and worried about repercussions for communicating directly with the sheriff. Staly also accused Barile of creating barriers between himself and other members of the leadership team. The notes also allege that Barile’s interactions with members of the leadership team involved “yelling, profanity, intimidation” and conduct Staly considered inconsistent with the expectations of an executive leader. Staly also cited what he
described as concerns about favoritism, including “circumstances involving women with whom you previously had personal relationships,” as well as instances in which Barile allegedly failed to follow or attempted to circumvent agency policies and procedures. The released documents do not provide specific examples or identify the employees involved in those allegations. Staly wrote that FCSO had invested heavily in Barile’s leadership development, including sending him to the FBI National Academy, Florida Sheriffs Association Commanders Academy and other programs. The sheriff said the agency also retained an executive coach specifically for Barile, but alleged Barile had indicated that some of those opportunities provided little value or were a waste of his time. “The issue is leadership behavior, judgment, accountability, and your failure to meet the standards required of the Chief Deputy,” Staly’s notes state. Staly wrote that before appointing Barile chief deputy, he had told him there would be no demotion back into another position if he was unsuccessful in the role. “I have completely lost confidence in your leadership and in your ability to continue serving in the appointed executive position of Chief Deputy,” the notes state. According to the documents, Barile was then given two options: resign or have his executive appointment revoked and his employment terminated. A termination memorandum included among the released records, which would have been issued had Barile not resigned, states that his executive appointment was being revoked because he had “failed to meet the terms and conditions” of an executive staff agreement he signed in January 2025. Barile instead submitted a resignation letter saying he was ready to “start a new chapter” after nearly 20 years with the agency. The new documents also show that FCSO reported Barile’s departure to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement as a “voluntary separation not involving misconduct.” Email rich@observerlocal news.com.
BUDGET SUMMARY
All concerned citizens are invited to attend a public hearing on the tax increase, to be held on: MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 5:15 P.M. BEVERLY BEACH TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM 2735 N OCEANSHORE BOULEVARD, BEVERLY BEACH, FLORIDA A FINAL DECISION on the proposed tax increase and the budget will be made at this hearing.
7763-360203 Sep. 24, 2026
7763-360218 Sep. 24, 2026
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Flagler Schools to align policies to comply with state’s new AI rules District participates in the state’s AI Taskforce and has provides feedback on new regulations. BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
The Florida Board of Education, on Sept. 16, passed rules for the use of artificial intelligence in K-12 public schools and state colleges beginning in the 2027-28 school year. School districts will be required to amend their regulations on internet safety to include AI by July 1, 2027. Flagler Schools technology officials say they are ahead of the game. The new rules state that districts will be required to notify parents if their students will be using an AI product. Parental consent will be required for AI use, and the district will have to offer an alternative, non-AI instructional tool similar in quality if a parent does not allow their child to use AI. “We’re going through the rules, and we’re really in pretty good shape,” said Teresa Phillips, Flagler Schools instructional technology coordinator. “We’ve had a board policy in place since 2024 that addresses a lot of the things spelled out in the guidelines.” Ryan Deising, Flagler Schools’ chief of technology and innovation, said the district participates in the state’s AI Taskforce and has had the opportunity to provide feedback on some of the guidelines. “We feel fortunate to have
been part of that conversation as it moved through,” he said. Other new state requirements include any AI used in pre-K to grade 5 will have to undergo an additional review for approval; and no AI instructional tools can be used to meet a student’s social or emotional needs or subject students to undisclosed behavior monitoring, social scoring or psychological profiling. Teachers and administrators will also be required to undergo training regarding AI risks and safety. Students will not be able to use AI unsupervised. And school personnel must be able to immediately suspend or disable the AI product without vendor assistance. “In Flagler, we’ve been vetting all of our AI tools that students have access to since we began rolling them out,” Phillips said. Access for K-5 students has a lot more guidance than those for secondary school students, she said, so the district is already in alignment with that part of the policy. The district currently uses Khan Academy’s AI-powered teaching assistant, Khanmigo, as a tutoring tool for all students, especially for those in grades 6-12. “It’s a fantastic program,” she said. But it could be banned under the rule disallowing unsupervised AI use. In a School Board workshop on Tuesday, Sept. 22, Deising presented an agreement for future approval with a grantfunded initiative to enhance tutoring programs through the University of Florida’s Lastinger Center for Learn-
Ryan Deising, Flagler Schools chief of technology and innovation. File photo by Brent Woronoff
ing, in partnership with Khan Academy, which would integrate Khanmigo. Deising said Khan Academy is about to release a product overhaul so that some students can continue to use Khan Academy without having to use Khanmigo. “As we’ve rolled [AI instructional tools] out, we’ve taken a really cautious, approach in making sure safety is paramount,” Phillips said. Deising told the board that the district is preparing policy recommendations. “There clearly are some pieces that we’re going to be working through,” he said. “It will change some of the policies that we have in place on how we manage our student devices, when access is for parents. But I think the feedback from our vendor partners has been pretty good. Clearly, there’s some work to be done, but I’m pretty optimistic that we’ll be in a good position. Our intention is to start working on some of the policy recommendations to bring to the board, so it gives us an opportunity to have some conversations rather than pushing things back.” The News Service of Florida contributed to this story.
Plug into the Sun Solar Power
51 years of service in Flagler & Volusia counties Residential · Commercial · Industrial Solar Storage
Solar Pool Heating
Stop renting electricity and call today! 386.445.7606 solar-fit.com
9A
10A
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
One of Bunnell’s oldest buildings is demolished. What could have been? Former Bunnell Hotel, built around 1909, later became the Halcyon Hotel and Carriage Apartments.
Moody’s influence remains visible today through Moody Boulevard. Siarkowicz said Flagler County was even considered for the name “Moody County,” but Moody instead suggested honoring his friend Henry Flagler.
RICH CARROLL
EFFORTS TO SAVE THE BUILDING
MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER
One of Bunnell’s oldest buildings, a structure that once welcomed prospective residents to the developing community more than a century ago, has been demolished. The building at North Railroad Street and West Lambert Street began as the Bunnell Hotel around 1909 before later becoming the Halcyon Hotel and eventually the Carriage Apartments, according to Flagler County Historical Society President Ed Siarkowicz. Siarkowicz said the hotel was built by the Bunnell Development Company, which was
NEWS BRIEFS New student School Board members: Grace and Reece
Reece Derringe of Matanzas High School and Grace Brocksmith of Flagler Palm Coast High School were introduced on Tuesday, Sept. 22, as Flagler County’s 2026-27 student School Board members. The student board members will be permitted to participate in School Board meeting discussions as spelled out in new board policy. They will also serve as representatives of their
Siarkowicz said the Historical Society had hoped for years that the building could be preserved. Instead, Siarkowicz was told the property had been sold to someone interested in demolishing the building and developing some form of multi-unit housing. Just days later, he said, a husband and wife approached the listing agent hoping to purchase the property and turn the historic building into a bed-and-breakfast. Siarkowicz asked whether the new owner might reconsider the sale so the couple
The former Bunnell Hotel has been demolished. Courtesy photo
led by Isaac Moody. Moody and the company played a major role in developing what would become Bunnell, marketing property to Northerners interested in establishing farms and homes in the area. Many of those prospective residents stayed at the hotel while looking at property. “The construction of the hotel somewhere around 1909
was where many of the original residents that came down to take a look at land stayed,” Siarkowicz said. Moody, who was serving as a St. Johns County commissioner at the time, purchased close to 40,000 acres in the Bunnell area, Siarkowicz said. Henry Flagler’s railroad was already running through the community.
schools’ student bodies. “This is always an important selection for me,” FPC Principal Bobby Bossardet said in introducing Brocksmith to the School Board. “I’m not simply looking for the student with the longest resume or the highest GPA. I’m looking for someone who truly represents what it means to be a Bulldog. One of the things we are most proud of at FPC is the diversity of the students that we serve.” Brocksmith stood out, Bossardet said, because “she understands that representing FPC isn’t about representing one group of students or one perspective; it’s about representing all of them.” Brocksmith is an International Baccalaureate Diploma candidate with a weighted
GPA of 4.94. She is a varsity track and field athlete, a member of student government, a Link Crew leader and a Florida Girls State delegate. “She has competed in the congressional debate, served throughout our community and has already demonstrated a willingness to lead and serve others in a number of different ways,” Bossardet said. “Grace is someone I believe our students can be proud to have speaking on their behalf.” Derringe has already earned his AICE Diploma and has a weighted GPA of 5.18. He is a member of the National Honor Society and is vice president of Matanzas’ AICE program. He is also a College Board ambassador, a peer tutor, a student journalist, a varsity and club swim-
could preserve the building, but that did not happen. “Ultimately these decisions are made by the people that own the home and the property,” Siarkowicz said. “Sometimes it’s frustrating when we see a certain property one way based on the history and the people that owned it and the people that lived there and who they were and what they did. But the owner has other visions.” In recent years, the former hotel had fallen into disrepair. Siarkowicz said the interior had been gutted and, by the time of the demolition, he did not believe any original architectural features remained inside. A chain-link fence had eventually been placed around the property to keep people out. Still, its demolition came as a surprise to the Historical Society. Siarkowicz said he learned what was happening when
someone who drove past the property called and asked whether he knew the building was being torn down. He went to the site and recorded video of the demolition. For Siarkowicz, losing the building is about more than losing an old structure. “Every time we lose a historic structure like this, the community loses its history and its provenance,” he said, paraphrasing a message often shared by Flagler County Historical Society senior historian Claudia Dean-Malo. Siarkowicz said Bunnell still has historic homes and buildings that could be preserved and incorporated into a broader revitalization effort, including historic districts, walking tours and heritage tourism. “History is much more than just names and dates and old things,” Siarkowicz said. “It’s the history of a community, and it tells the story of the people that came to pass.”
Flagler County’s 2026-27 Student School Board members Grace Brocksmith of Flagler Palm Coast and Reece Derringe of Matanzas with FPC Principal Bobby Bossardet (left) and Matanzas Principal Mike Rinaldi (right) and, back row: Assistant Superintendent Angela O’Brien and School Board members Christy Chong, Will Furry, Janie Ruddy and Lauren Ramirez. Courtesy photo by Don Foley, Flagler Schools
mer and a Flagler Schools lifeguard. He hopes to attend the University of Florida. “He has demonstrated discipline, compassion, strong communication skills and a genuine commitment
to serving others,” Matanzas Principal Mike Rinaldi said. During his interview for this position, his focus was never on himself, but was entirely on advocating for the students, representing their per-
spectives, and ensuring their voices are heard. That sincere commitment to others is at the heart of who Reece is, and will make him an outstanding representative.” —BRENT WORONOFF
JOIN IN ON THE FUN!
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Sponsored by
10 am to 2 pm
Palm Coast Community Center
TO ATTEND!
305 Palm Coast Pkwy NE
Cool Raffle Prizes!
REGISTER NOW to EXHIBIT or ATTEND!
ActiveAfter50Expo.com
R & SPONSORSHI O T I B I P EXH OPPORTUNITIES Dedicated Exhibitor Space Direct Engagement with an Active 50+ Audience Opportunity to Showcase and Sell Products, Services Inclusion in Event Promotions Discounts for multi-show registration and non-profits.
Plus Special Perks!
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
11A
100 WORDS (GIVE OR TAKE) EVERY DAY (OR SO)
There is no finish line
BRIAN MCMILLAN PUBLISHER
In a meeting room outside Principal Bobby Bossardet’s office, at Flagler Palm Coast High School, in huge block letters, is the phrase, “THERE IS NO FINISH LINE.” The phrase comes from a 1977 Nike ad campaign, and
Bossardet said he first heard of it from his uncle, who worked for Nike. What does it mean? Bossardet describes it this way: “Win or lose, get in your feelings and then get out of them real quick, either way. On to the next! Celebrate the wins. Own the losses. Learn from both. Keep moving.” He continued: “That’s why I’m intentional about having those words on the wall in the principal’s office. Think about everything that happens in that room and all the people who sit in it. Students, staff, parents, coaches,
community members. We’ve celebrated huge successes in there. We’ve worked through failures, disappointment, some really hard conversations, and even tragedy. There have been tears of sorrow in that office and tears of joy. Sometimes someone sitting in that room just needs to be reminded that where they are in that moment isn’t where they have to stay. ... “There is no finish line because we aren’t chasing a destination. We’re chasing progress.” The only personal note I would add is this: A finish line often is distracting to me. Once I realize there is an end in sight, I start to long for the relief that will come
when the struggle is over, and that tempts me to ease up before I even cross the line. Telling myself that there is no finish line is a way to keep up my effort now and into the future. There is no such thing as a time without struggle, so learn to love the struggle. JOKES AT THE BUS STOP
Sept. 17, 2026 The school bus was late the other day, and my 8-year-old son, Luke, went to extreme measures to pass the time. As some other kids were sitting next to him, bored, he opened his backpack and produced a book with a green cover titled, “Jokes for 7-year-olds.” “What gets broken as soon
as you say its name?” Luke asked. No one responded. “Silence,” he said. No one responded. “When you say, ‘silence,’” he explained — “We get it!” another child said. Apparently we need to buy “Jokes for 8-year-olds.”
We build community spirit and bridges of understanding through accurate and compelling journalism. We build the local economy by helping businesses strategically connect with our print and online readers. Publisher Brian McMillan, brian@observerlocalnews.com Managing Editor Jarleene Almenas, jarleene@observerlocalnews.com Associate Editor Brent Woronoff, brent@observerlocalnews.com Multimedia Producer Rich Carroll, rich@observerlocalnews.com Operation and Design Manager Hailey McMillan, hailey@observerlocalnews.com Marketing Consultants April Koehler, april@observerlocalnews.com; Travis Hurlbut, travis@observerlocalnews.com Office Coordinator Kay Raymond, Kay@observerlocalnews.com
WHERE DO THE BEATLES GO ON VACATION?
Sept. 21, 2026 After some Beatles jokes told by his older brother, Luke joined in and made one up. It goes like this: Where do The Beatles go on vacation? Pal-m’Coast-y. (Hint: Paul McCartney)
‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘ ‘‘
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR at someone has my back.
Editor’s Note: Flagler word, Abe and Rachel Mills, Tiger Bay Club President Jay reporters and photojournalScherr responded this way: ists for the Observer. SUBSCRIBE Tiger Bay panel Club does not endorse canTheir talents extend For driveway delivery, visit Senator Jeff Brandes is a wise “Flagler Tiger Bay Club’s is slanted against didates or take positions on goal is to have a civil and far beyond the expected www.observerlocalnews.com/ man, but it was predictable Amendment 3 political issues.” balanced discussion, provide work-related skills, and this subscribe. that he would be opposed to Every panelist but one is a voters with factual inforcommunity is fortunate to Amendment 3. Dear Editor: constitutional officer in Flamation, and give them an have them. Our chorus was TO ADVERTISE The question is: why is We are fortunate to have gler County and most have opportunity to ask questions the focus of a recent article Call the office at 386-447-9723, every panelist a stakeholder the Flagler Tiger Bay Club publicly expressed concerns and better understand the of the (Sept. 3) Palm Coast or reach out to a marketing in defeating Amendment 3? in our community. Their exclusively of the negative potential impact of Amendedition of the Observer. From consultant above. That’s not education. That’s monthly luncheons often impacts of the potential pas- taking a position on a politiment 3. We intend to ensure the minute Abe and Rachel have top tier state and sage of Amendment 3. They that both the potential benLocally Owned / Publishers stepped out of their car, cal issue. national speakers, and their foresee their budgets being efits and potential conseof the Palm Coast Observer positivity and enthusiasm Since 2019, according to McMillan Ink LLC candidate forums are valureduced if the voters pass this the governor’s office, local quences of the amendment ensued. 50 Leanni Way, Unit C3 able and informative for ballot initiative. are addressed during the The front page newspaper government property tax voters. I am a supporter of our Town Hall. article, Facebook reel and revenue has increased 88% Puharic and Associates, Inc. is a full service Palm Coast, FL 32137 However, I am opposed to Constitutional Officers Tom “Flagler Tiger Bay Club Instagram post that resulted from $32 billion to $60 “Committed to protectProfessional the needs ofdoes his not take positions You Deserve concierge-style risk management firm designed their plan to have a meeting Bexley, Shelly Edmonson, on showcased our members, billion and is projected to and ability to coach you through finding Come hear us sing on advertised as a community Jay Gardner, Kaiti Lenhart, clients political issues, and we are director and accompanist in increase another 38% to $83 for homeowners seeking a sole remedy insurance One-on-one Customer Service Friday, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. or town hall with a completely and Rick Staly. They are great the be taka manner none of us could billion 2032. rightinplan ... Adam’s partnershipnot hasand will notsolution for Home, Flood, Business and Health. Sunday, Dec. 6 at 4 p.m. Both with a Real Insurance Agent one-sided panel. I recently leaders and Flagler County ing a position for or against have even dreamed about. Articulate advocates in helped us further our mission.” We work overtime to protect thefeel enterprise you concerts are free, with easy received their weekly newsgovernment efficiency is an Amendment 3.” They made us comfortfavor of Amendment 3 are parking, and are performed letter with the announceexample that other county able and excited as we sang not in short supply. Intenhave worked so hard to build. Serenade to Abe and during our first rehearsal that at Trinity Presbyterian ment of the 2026 Flagler governments should follow. tionally not inviting any Rachel Mills from evening. Church in Palm Coast. Tiger Bay Club voter educaIt is not even fair to ask these member of the supporters, Community Chorus We hope that they contintion town hall meeting on elected leaders, who have currently the majority with including contracts, NANCY WYNNE HOFFMAN of Palm Coastfor risk management, ue to provide stories such as Amendment 3, the property been not only been dealing the issue polling at 65% in and Associates, Puharic andInc. As Community Chorus ours; it’s heartening to learn Puharic tax reform initiative. with the stress of a possupport, is an idea that needs employee policies, concerns, benefits, s seeking sole-remedy insurance solutions, Puharic Associates, Dear Editor: of Palm Coast about our local communities The invitation closes with sible budgetand reduction but Inc.to be reconsidered. Puharic and Associates, Inc. is a full service Puharic and Associates, Inc. is a full service Puharic and Associates, Inc. is a full service assets and future growth. concierge-styleconcierge-style risk managemer The Chorus of offer. Thank you, statement: also managing staff whoyou arehave “Committed to protect the needs of his “Committed toCommunity protectProfessional theneeds needs his and all “Committed to protect the ofofhis You Deserve Professional You Deserve Professional You Deserve ce andthis Risk Managers works overtime to protect the enterprise concierge-style riskthey management firm designed concierge-style risk managementfirm firmdesigned designed concierge-style risk management ROLAND CLEE Send letters to for brent@ Palm Coast would like to serand Rachel Mills, for allfor homeowners “As a nonpartisan orgaconcerned with the possibilseeking a sole rs homeowners clients and ability toclients coach you finding clients andthrough ability coach youthe through findingAbe and ability toto coach you through finding forwritten homeowners seeking a sole remedy insurance for homeowners seeking soleremedy remedyinsurance insurance for homeowners seeking aaobserverlocalnews.com. sole One-on-one Customer Service hard tonization, build. We manage group and auto —Flagler One-on-one Customer Service One-on-one Customer Service Beach enade, albeit with you add to this experience. Flagler Tiger Bay health, ity liability, of being property laid off. Former The sole-remedy insurance solution for so many
ck, protect my business and ottom line in the process — sharing ed me get through the past 4 years, to stand together as a team know that someone hassomeone my back.has my back. er, I need to know that my faith in Adam!
enot myonly back,have protect my business my back, protect and my business and ⭑ Puharic InsuranceMEANS MEANS Engineer Insurance Puharic Insurance Malpractice Insurance ng thewatching bottom line the process sharing while theinbottom line in—the process — sharing Home | Auto | Flood | Business | Health | @PuharicAssociates nt Environmental Services, LLCmethe now that someone my back. wner, I need tome know someone has back. hat helped getthat through past 4 years, n measures thathas helped getmy through the past 4 years, my back, my back, business and my business and m not onlyprotect have my protect Multi-state proven program to grow your practice ontinue toline stand together as a team ope wewatching will continue toline stand a team gso the bottom inthethebottom process — in sharing while thetogether process —as sharing Bid on more work put allyears. my faith inallAdam! xt 50measures I put my faith in Adam! at me get through the 4 years, ionhelped that helped mepast get through tion the past 4 years,
ntinue to stand togethertoasstand a team I hope we will continue together as a team ⭑⭑⭑ ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ ut all faith Iinput Adam! next 50myyears. all my faith in Adam!
Manage risks and growth Plan for your successful future.
Puharic Insurance MEANS Malpractice Ins Puharic Insurance MEANS Malpract Home | Home Auto || Flood | Health | | Health @PuharicAss Auto | Business Flood | Business | @P
Puharic Insurance MEANS Cyber Insurance Puharic Insurance MEANS Cyber Insurance ⭑⭑⭑ ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ Brilliant Environmental Services, LLCServices, der/Owner | Brilliant Environmental LLC Puharic Puharic Insurance MEANS Malpractice Insurance Insurance MEANS Malpractice Insurance is part of a plan Insurance
| Flood Health Business| ||@PuharicAssociates Health || @PuharicAssociates @PuharicAssociates Home | Auto| Business | Flood | Business Health Brilliant Environmental LLC Services, LLCHome | Auto nder/Owner | BrilliantServices, Environmental under/Owner
ur business the way you do, three dimensionally.
anagers who seek to understand your business.
“Committed to protect theDeserve needs of hisProfessional “Committed to protect the needs of his You Deserve Professional You clients and ability toOne-on-one coach you through finding clients and ability to Service coach you through finding One-on-one Customer Customer Service the right planpartnership ...the Adam’s partnership haspartnership righthas ... Adam’s hasBusiness the right plan ... Adam’s partnership the right right plan Adam’s partnership hasplan solution forand Home, Flood, the plan ......has Adam’s solution forBusin Hom solution forReal Home, Flood, and Health. solution forHome, Home, Flood, Business and Health. solution for Flood, Health. a Real Insurance Agent with a Insurance Agent with a Real Insurance Agent with awith Real Insurance Agent with a Real Insurance Agent businesses, Puharic and Associates, Inc. Business – Insurance helped us further ourhelped mission.” helped ushelped furtherand our mission.” us further our mission.” us Risk further ourworks mission.” Wehelped work overtime to protect the enterprise you We work overtime protect theenterprise enterprise you us further ourprotect mission.” We work overtime the We work overtime to protect th Weyou work overtim Managers overtime to the totoprotect
havesoworked so hard to build. have workedso sohard hardtotobuild. build. worked so hard t worked enterprise you have worked hard to build. Wehave manage have have w group health, liability, property and auto — seeing Orthopedic Care your business the way you do, three dimensionally. That Puts You First is part of the plan for risk management, including contracts, employee for risk management, including contracts, for risk management, includingcontracts, contracts, for risk management, including ncerns, benefits, assets and future growth. employee policies, concerns, employeebenefits, policies,concerns, concerns, benefits, employee policies, benefits, for risk management, for risk includi manag owners seekingFor sole-remedy insurance solutions,insurance Puharic and Associates, owners seeking sole-remedy solutions, PuharicInc. and Associates, Inc. Inc. assets and future growth. assets and future growth. assets and future growth. for risk management, including contracts, employee employee policies, concern urance rates Scan theand QR code to getto protect employee p andtoday? Risk Managers works overtime the enterprise you have – Insurance Risk Managers works overtime to protect the enterprise you have have policies/concerns, benefits, assets and future growth. ornsurance owners seeking sole-remedy insurance solutions, Puharic and Associates, Inc. For owners seeking sole-remedy insurance solutions, Puharic and Associates, Inc. assets and future gro asset and easy comparative rked so hard to worked build. Wesorates. manage group We health, liability, property auto property — hard to build. — manage group health,and liability, and auto — The sole-remedy insurance solution forinsurance so manysolution The sole-remedy sole-remedy insurance solution for forsosomany many The Insurance and Risk Managers works overtime to protect the enterprise you have –theInsurance Managers works overtime to protect the enterprise you haveCall ing your business way do,and three dimensionally. seeing youryou business theRisk way you do, three dimensionally. businesses, Puharic and Associates, Inc. – and Insurance businesses, Puharic andAssociates, Associates,Inc. Inc.––Insurance Insurance 732-655-6200 today and businesses, Puharic Call 732-655-6200 Need insurance rates today? Scan here to Need insurance rates today? Scan here to get and Risk Managers works overtime to protect the and Risk Managers works overtime to protect the orked so hardworked to build. We manage group health, liability, property and auto — and Risk Managers works overtime to protect the so hard to build. We manage group health, liability, property and auto — experience the difference. The sole-remedy insurance solution The ins info @ puharicassociates.com enterprise you have worked so hard to build. We manage free, fast, easy comparative rates enterprise you have worked so hard to build. We manage enterprise you have worked so hard to build. We managesole-remedy get free, fast and easy comparative rates. eeing your business the way you do, three dimensionally. seeing your business the way you do, three dimensionally. businesses, Puharic and Associates, group health, liability,group property andliability, auto — property seeing group health, liability, propertyand andauto auto seeing businesses, PuharicInc an health, ——seeing your business the way you three dimensionally. yourdo, business theway wayyou you do,Risk threedimensionally. dimensionally. your business the do, three urance is part ofInsurance the plan isforpart riskofmanagement, including contracts,including employeecontracts, employee the plan for risk employee PuharicAssociates.com Business | Health| Home | Flood | Auto Insurance management, and Managers works overtime and Risk Managers wto
Insurance isInsurance part of a is plan Insurance ispart partof ofaaplan plan
Insurance is part of a plan
Insurance is part Insuranc
call 732.655.6200 isk managers seektoday! to understand business. Riskwho managers who seek toyour understand your business.
‘‘ ‘‘ ‘‘ ‘‘
Call 732.655.6200 today | info@puharicassociates.com | PuharicAssociates.com
Risk managers who seek who to understand your business. Risk managers seek to understand your business.
one hasthat my someone back. know has myand back. icies/concerns, benefits, assets future growth. policies/concerns, benefits, assets and future growth. enterprise you haveenterprise worked soyou hard to wor buil have Insurance is part of a plan Insurance is part of a plan Insurance is part of a plan ct business and e my back, protect my business and group health, liability, and a now that someone hasthat my someone back. has my back. group property health, liability owner, I need to know for risk management, for including contracts, employee forrisk riskmanagement, management, includingcontracts, contracts,employee employee including ed insurance rates today? Scan the QR code to get Need insurance rates today? Scan the QR code to get ne in the process — sharing ing the bottom line in the process — sharing your business the waybusiness you do, three dim mynot back, business and your the way am onlyprotect my protect business nsurance is have part of back, the plan formy including contracts, employee assets and future growth. policies/concerns, benefits, assets andfuture future growth. Insurance iseasy part ofrisk themanagement, planandfor risk management, including contracts, employee policies/concerns, benefits, policies/concerns, benefits, assets and growth. es t, free and easy comparative rates. fast, free and comparative rates. et through the past 4 years, hat helped me get through the past 4 years, bottom line inbenefits, thebottom process — sharing ong sothe while watching the line inbenefits, the process —growth. sharing com olicies/concerns, assets and future policies/concerns, assets and future growth. together as a team continue tome stand together as teamthrough Call 732-655-6200 and732-655-6200 Calltoday 732-655-6200 todayand and Call 732-655-6200 today hat helped get through 4 years, the past 4 years, ction measures that helpedthe meapast get Call 732-655-6200 Call 732-655-6200 Call Need insurance rates today? Scan here to Need insurance rates today? Scan here to Need insurance rates today? Scan here to get Need insurance rates today? Scan here to get Need insurance rates today? Scan here to Need insurance rates today? Scan here to get n Adam! put all my faith in Adam!toasstand experience theinfo difference. experience therisk difference. to together a team experience the difference. dontinue I hope westand will continue together as aQR team for management, contrac for riskincluding management, @ puharicassociates.com info @ puharicassociates.com @ puharicassociates.com free, fast, easy comparative rates free, fast, easy comparative ratesinfo free, fast, easy comparative rates get free, fast and easy comparative rates. get free, fast and easy comparative rates. get free, fast and easy comparative rates. eed insurance rates today? Scan the code to get Need insurance rates today? Scan the QR code to get —eput sharing all50 myyears. faith in Adam! next I put all my faith in Adam! policies/concerns,policies/concerns, benefits, assets and fu bene s
InsuranceInsurance is part of ia — call 732.655.6200 today! today! difference — call 732.655.6200 ⭑⭑⭑ Insurance MEANS Malpractice Insurance Puharic Insurance MEANS Malpractice Insurance 4 years, ast, free and fast, easyfree comparative rates. and easyPuharic comparative rates. PuharicAssociates.com Business | Health| Home | Flood | Auto Insurance PuharicAssociates.com Business | Health| Home Flood Auto Insurance Insurance PuharicAssociates.com Business | Health| Home ||Auto Call 732.655.6200 today | info@puharicassociates.com | PuharicAssociates.com Call 732.655.6200 today | info@puharicassociates.com |||Flood PuharicAssociates.com Home | Auto | Flood | Business | Health | @PuharicAssociates | info@puharicassociates.com | PuharicAssociates.com Home | Auto | Flood Business | Health | @PuharicAssociates ⭑⭑⭑ ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ nmental Services, LLC Services, LLC Brilliant Environmental Puharic Insurance MEANS Malpractice Insurance m|m Puharic Insurance MEANS Health Malpractice Insurance Call 732-655-6200 today Call 732-655 Home | Auto | Flood Health | |@PuharicAssociates Home | Auto| Business | Flood | Business | @PuharicAssociates Call 732-655-6
Brilliant Environmental LLC Services, LLC under/Owner | BrilliantServices, Environmental
386-255-4596
Palm Coast, Port Orange, and Daytona Beach
Call experience the differe experience info @ puharicassoc info @ puh www.OrthoToc.com
15 years of proudly insuring Need insurance rates today? Scan here Puharic and Associates, Inc. is Associates, a rates full service Need insurance rates today? Scan here to to getScan Need insurance rates today? here Puharic and Inc. is Scan a fullhere service Need insurance today? to to get over 40 chamber members for “Committed to protect the needs of protect his Professional “Committed to the needs of his @PuharicAssociates You Deserve Professional You Deserve concierge-style risk management firm designed concierge-style risk management firm designed free, fast, easy comparative rates free, fast, easy comparative rates PuharicAssociates.com get free, fast and easy comparative rates. Business, Health Insurance getPuharic free, fast and easy comparative rates. and Associates, Inc. a full service Puharic andis Associates, Inc. is &a Home full service
efference — call 732.655.6200 today! — call 732.655.6200 today! Puharic Insurance MEANS Malpractice Insurance Puharic Insurance MEANS Malpractice Insurance One-on-one Service One-on-one Customer ServiceProfessional Deserve Professional Deserve Puharic Insurance Home | Auto HealthCustomer |You Home| Flood | Auto| |Business Flood || Business | @PuharicAssociates Health |You@PuharicAssociates
clients and ability to clients coach you and through ability tofinding coach youneeds through forto seeking a sole remedy insurance forofhomeowners seeking a sole remedy insurance “Committed to protect the ofhomeowners hisfindingthe needs “Committed protect his concierge-style risk management firm concierge-style riskdesigned management firm designed Business | Health | Home | Auto | Flood | 732.655.6200 the right plan ... Adam’s partnership has the right plan ... Adam’s partnership has solution for Home, Flood, Business and Health. solution for Home, Flood, Business and Health. , LLC clients and ability to clients coach you with a Real Insurance Agent and through ability tofinding coach youfull through finding seeking with a Real Insurance Agent for homeowners a sole remedy insurance Puharic and Associates, Inc. is a service concierge-style for homeowners seeking a sole remedy insurance One-on-one Customer Service One-on-one Customer Service helped us further mission.” helped our mission.” We...work overtime to the enterprise you the enterprise you Weprotect work overtime to protect the our right planus...vfurther Adam’s partnership has the right plan Adam’s partnership has solution for Home, Flood, Business and Health. solutionseeking for Home, Flood, Business and Health. with RealPuharic Insurance risk management firm designed for homeowners with aisAssociates, Real Insurance have worked so service hardhave to build. worked so hard toenterprise build. ayou Puharic andaAssociates, Inc. aAgent full service and isWe aAgent full helped us further ourhelped mission.” us further ourInc. mission.” work overtime to protect the We work overtime to protect the enterprise you “Committed to protect the hissole Rhonda “Committed toofprotect the needs of his insurance Adam Puharic, You Deserve Professional Youneeds Deserve Professional remedy solution for Home, Flood, Business and concierge-style risk management firm designed concierge-style risk management firm designed have worked so hardhave to build. worked so hard to build. Richardson, President Insurance is part of a plan clients and ability to coach you through finding Insurance is part of a plan and abilityService to coach you through finding forService homeowners a sole remedy insurance APRN for homeowners seeking a sole remedy insurance One-on-oneclients Customer One-on-one Customer Health. We workseeking overtime to protect the enterprise you have for Health. risk management, contracts,including contracts, forincluding risk management, the right plan ... Adam’s partnership hasTel:partnership the right plan Agent ... Adam’s has for Home, solution Flood, and for Home, Flood, Business and Health. Puharic anda Associates, Insurance isInsurance part of a is plan part of plan Inc. 732.655.6200 • Insolution NC:Business 704.520.0700 • In FL: 386.387.7800 with a Real Insurance with a Real Insurance Agent worked so hard to build. employee policies, concerns, employee benefits, policies, concerns, benefits, helped us further our mission.” helped us further our mission.” is a full service conciergeWeInc. work overtime We to protect the enterprise you for risk management, including contracts,including contracts, work overtime to protect the and enterprise you risk management, sole-remedy insurance solutions,insurance Puharic and Associates, For owners seeking sole-remedy solutions, PuharicInc. and Associates, assets future growth. assets andfor future growth. Fax: 732.503.9971 • PO Box 1132 • Wall Twp, NJ 07719 style risk management firm employee benefits, policies, concerns, benefits, to worked build. so hard to build.employee policies, concerns, have Managersand works to protect the enterprise you have –skInsurance Riskovertime Managers works overtime to protect the enterprise you have have worked so hard
PuharicAssociates.com Business |Business Health|business. Home | Auto PuharicAssociates.com | Health| Home Call 732.655.6200 today | info@puharicassociates.com || Flood PuharicAssocia Call 732.655.6200 today | info@puharicassociates.com || Floo PuhI means
Feel like a person again, Insurance is part of aassetsplan r ownersnot seeking For sole-remedy insurance solutions,insurance Puharic and Associates, owners seeking sole-remedy solutions, PuharicInc. and Associates, Inc. and future growth. assets and future growth. just a number. adam@puharicassociates.com • www.puharicassociates.com build. We manage group health, liability, property and auto — worked so hard to build. We manage group health, liability, property and auto — Insurance and Risk Managersand works to protect the enterprise you have The sole-remedy insurance solution for so many – Insurance Riskovertime Managers works overtime to protect the enterprise you have The sole-remedy insurance solution for risk management, including contracts, for so many
designed for business owners seeking a sole remedy insurance solution for Home, seeing the way you do, three dimensionally. yourhard business theWe way you do, three We dimensionally. https://www.puharicassociatesinc.com/make-a-payment businesses, Puharic and Associates,Puharic Inc. – and Insurance businesses, Associates, Inc. – Insurance orked so to worked build. group health, liability, property and auto property — riskemployee somanage hard to build. manage group health, liability, and auto for — risk for management, including contracts, policies, concerns, benefits, management, including contracts, Flood, Business and Health. The sole-remedy insurance solution for so many The solution for so many and Risk Managers works overtime to protect the and Risk Managers workssole-remedy overtime toinsurance protect the eing your businessseeing the way do, three youryou business thedimensionally. way you do, three dimensionally. employee policies, concerns, benefits, We work overtime employee policies, benefits, businesses, Puharic and Associates,Puharic Inc. – Insurance Associates, Inc. – Insurance to protect assets and future growth. enterprise youconcerns, have worked so hardyou to build. Webusinesses, manage enterprise have worked so hard to build.and We manage ice solutions, and Associates, PuharicInc. and Associates, Inc. thetoenterprise assets and future growth. andproperty Risk Managers overtime to protect the assets future growth. and Risk Managers works overtime protect the you have group and health, liability, andliability, autoworks — property seeing group health, and auto — seeing worked hard to build. tovertime the enterprise you the haveenterprise you have to protect enterprise you have worked so hardyou to build. We manage enterprise have worked so hard to build. We so manage
Insurance is part of aisplan Insurance part of a plan
• Holistic options rs who seek business. Risk managers who toyour understand your business. • 30 to minunderstand medseek management puharicassociatesinc.com/commercial Risk managers seek to understand business. Risk managers who seek toyour understand your business. appointments your business the way your you do, three dimensionally. business the way you do, three dimensionally. the plan for risk including contracts, employee nsurance is part ofmanagement, thewho plan for risk management, including contracts, employee group health, liability,group property andliability, auto — property seeing and auto — seeing health, y, property and auto — oup health, liability, property and auto — The sole-remedy insurance solution for so many enefits, assets and future growth. The sole-remedy insurance solution for so many • We work with a wide range of policies/concerns, benefits, assets and future growth. 386.387.7800 your business the way your you do, three dimensionally. business the way you do, three dimensionally. surance is part ofInsurance the plan for riskofmanagement, including contracts,including employeecontracts, employee is part the plan for risk management, ee dimensionally. Insurance is part of a plan businesses, Puharic and Associates, Inc. –and Insurance Insurance is part of a plan businesses, Puharic Associates, Inc. – Insurance providers olicies/concerns,insurance benefits, assets andbenefits, future growth. policies/concerns, assets and future growth. and Risk Managers works risk management, including contracts, employee risk management, including contracts, employee overtime toforprotect the and Risk Managers works overtime tofor protect the
tes today? Scanrates the QRtoday? code to getthe QR code to get Need insurance Scan Insurance isgrowth. part of a planpart of a plan Insurance and future policies/concerns, benefits, assets and futureisgrowth. enterprise you have worked so hard build.policies/concerns, We manage enterprise youtohave worked so hard tobenefits, build. Weassets manage doeed your business. understand your business. for risk management, including contracts, employee for risk management, including contracts, employee comparative rates. ast,insurance free9and easy comparative rates today? the QRtoday? code to getthe QR code to getgroup health, liability,group Pine Cone Dr SteScan 109,rates. Palm Coast Need insurance rates Scan property andliability, auto —property seeing and auto — seeing health,
tes Callincluding (386) 230-4448 schedule st, and easy comparative rates. ng free contracts, employee fast, free and to easy comparative rates. nagement, contracts, employee .com an appointment, or book online:
policies/concerns, benefits, assets and future growth. policies/concerns, benefits, assets and future growth. Calldo,732-655-6200 and your business the wayyour youbusiness do, threethe dimensionally. Calltoday 732-655-6200 today and way you three dimensionally. Call 732-655-6200 Call 732-655-6200
Palm Coast: • info@puharicassociates.com • puharicassociatesinc.com/commerical Needinsurance insurancerates ratesNeed today? Scanhere here Need today? Scan to to get Need insurance rates today? Scan hereto386-387-7800 toget insurance rates today? Scan here Coast: 386-387-7800 free, fast, easy comparative rates free, fast, easy comparative ratesBusiness get free, fast and easy rates. getcomparative free, fastPalm and easy comparative rates. |Scan Health Need insurance rates today? Scanhere here Need insurance rates today? Scan to to get Need insurance rates today? Scan heretotoget| Home | Flood | Auto Insurance Need insurance rates today? here info@puharicassociates.com for risk management, contracts, employee forincluding risk management, including free, fast, easy comparative rates free, fast, easy comparative ratesemployee get free, fast and easy comparative rates. get free, fast and easycontracts, comparative rates.
experience theCall difference. experience theCalldifference. 732-655-6200 today and732-655-6200 732-655-6200 today and info @ Callpuharicassociates.com 732-655-6200 Call 32.655.6200 today! today! e — call 732.655.6200 Insurance isInsurance part of a plan isinfo part@ofpuharicassociates.com a plan experience theinfo difference. experience the difference. info @ puharicassociates.com @ puharicassociates.com eQRdifference —codecall today! — call 732.655.6200 today! to get732.655.6200 PuharicAssociates.com Business | info@puharicassociates.com Health| Home Flood |growth. Auto|| Insurance PuharicAssociates.com Business | Health| Flood | Auto Insurance policies/concerns, benefits, and future growth. Call 732.655.6200 | info@puharicassociates.com ||and PuharicAssociates.com policies/concerns, benefits, assets futureHome Calltoday 732.655.6200 today |assets PuharicAssociates.com
ture growth.
12A
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
YOUR NEIGHBORS CLASSIC TASTE Hammock Beach Golf Resort and Spa’s Food & Wine Classic attracts national attention. ABE MILLS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The Hammock Beach Golf Resort and Spa held the fourth annual Food and Wine Classic on Saturday, Sept. 19. The event featured unlimited tasting of over 90 wines from all over the world, gourmet culinary offerings from the resort’s own executive culinary team, a craft beer garden unique Florida selections, live and interactive performances by the band Last2Leave, and a VIP wine tasting
Jill Cusack and Tara Jones sit together in the fancy oversized chair at the VIP experience. Photos by Rachel Mills
experience inside of a climate controlled tent all on the Champions Event Lawn overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. “The whole idea is to continue to showcase our beautiful resorts to people who have never been here before,” said Woody Mitchell, Hammock Beach Resort’s director of food and beverage. The reputation of the unique event has spread from Florida to reach people around the United States and beyond. “This year was incredible,” Mitchell said. “We’ve had people from Nebraska, Missouri, Kansas, Alabama, Georgia, New York, Chicago, Illinois, Kansas City, Missouri. We even had somebody this year buy a ticket from the Yukon Territory of Canada.” Matanzas High School football coach Matt Forrest was at the event enjoying the cuisine. “The sushi over there was phenomenal,” Forrest said. “Roast beef sliders are phenomenal as well. The brisket right here, great! The fungi pizza was phenomenal. I have probably eaten two plates of everything here.” Visit hammockbeach.com.
Art at the Food & Wine Classic Left: Christina Register, Katie Biancaniello, Laura Curtin, and Lynette Davis
Elizabeth Wieczorek and Scott Hornsby toast each other.
Friday and Saturday nights were special in one major way at the Hammock Beach Resort & Spa’s fourth annual Food & Wine Classic: live art painting by Flagler Beach plein air artist William Lurcott. Beginning in April of this year, the idea of having a professional artist introduce art at the annual classic was presented to Ocean Art Gallery’s Frank Gromling by Food and Beverage Director Woody Mitchell and Membership Director Marianne Murphy. Although over 375 professional artists have been represented at Ocean Art Gallery since its inception in 2012, Gromling knew who he
Tracey Baker, Teresa Rizzo, Ashley Forrest, and Matt Forrest enjoy the fourth annual Food and Wine Classic.
An event attendee shows his gourmet cuisine.
YOUR TOWN Reading the full text for Constitution Day at Heroes park Almost two dozen people gathered on Constitution Day, Thursday, Sept. 17, to mark the 239th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution. They read aloud the entire Constitution at Heroes
Memorial Park in Palm Coast with the goal of forming “a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity.” The event was orchestrated by a loose-knit group who gather each Wednesday under the banner “Conversations in American Democracy” to respond to affronts to the rule of law locally, statewide and nationally.
Attendees enjoy dancing and live music from party band Last2Leave.
For more information about Conversations in American Democracy call 804-9144460 or visit the group on Facebook. The group gathers on Wednesdays from noon until 1 p.m. at the Flagler County Democratic Party Headquarters. What is your club or organization up to? What anniversary are you celebration? Send Your Town stories and photos to brent@observerlocalnews. com. Participants reading the US Constitution. Courtesy photo
wanted: someone local with a national reputation, a plein air artist familiar with Florida’s environment, and someone who enjoyed talking with people as he painted in pastels or oil: William Lurcott. Contact Gromling at frank@oagart.com.
2B
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
LOCAL EVENTS THURSDAY, SEPT. 24
‘ART OF RUSSELL BELLAMY & KEVIN HARAN’ OPENING RECEPTION When: 5-7 p.m. Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach Details: OMAM invites all to celebrate the opening of this new exhibition in the main galleries. There will be light refreshments, live music and a cash bar. Free and open to the public. BEATS AND EATS When: 6-8 p.m. Where: The Stage at Town Center,1500 Central Ave. Palm Coast Details: Beats and Eats is a new monthly community event that combines the familiar Food Truck Tuesday experience with live concert entertainment from the Palm Coast Concert Series. The band is Planet E Studios and the beneficiary will be Care Cupboard Food Pantry. FLAGLER COUNTY ORCHID SOCIETY MEETING When: 6:30-9 p.m. Where: Trinity Presbyterian Church, 156 Florida Park Drive N., Palm Coast Details: This is the Orchid Society’s monthly meeting. This month is the society’s yearly auction of orchid plants from Hawaii. View plants at 6:30 p.m., meeting starts at 7 p.m. Refreshments available. Everyone is welcome. Checks or cash.
FRIDAY, SEPT. 25
AFTERNOON ESTUARY PADDLE When: 1-3 p.m. Where: Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreational Area, 3100 S. Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach Details: Take this two-hour
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
guided kayak tour aand discover the local ecosystem. Designed for all skill levels over the age of 12. Costs $50 per person for a single kayak, $90 for two participants in a tandem kayak and $25 if you bring your own. Space is limited. Call 386-517-2086. ACOUSTIC JAM SESSION When: 2-5 p.m. Where: Mala Compra Community Center, 79 Mala Compra Road, Palm Coast Details: Bring your acoustic string instrument (no amplifiers), a snack, a drink and a folding chair and join other local amateur musicians for a jam session. Free. Held every fourth Friday of the month. Visit flaglerjam.com. FLAGLER COUNTY PRO RODEO When: 5-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Sept. 25-26 Where: Flagler County Fairgrounds, 15 Sawgrass Road, Bunnell Details: The Flagler County Pro Rodeo returns for two nights of PRCA rodeo action. Gates open at 5 p.m. Rodeo starts at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $25 for adults; $15 for children. ‘COMPANY’ When: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Sept. 25, 26, and Oct. 2 and 3; and 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 27 and Oct. 4 Where: City Repertory Theatre, 160 Cypress Point Parkway, Suite B207, Palm Coast Details: See Stephen Sondheim’s multi-Tony winning musical, which tells the story of Bobby, a successful young man who has everything but a meaningful relationship. The show looks into the lives of Bobby’s social circle — five married couples — through his eyes. Tickets cost $30 for adults; $15 for students.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 26
ORMOND BEACH SONGWRITER FESTIVAL UNPLUGGED
When: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Where: The Casements, 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach Details: Enjoy a full day of live music featuring more than 70 acts performing across 10 stages. There will also be artist and trade-show booths, a youth art contest, food vendor, kids’ arts and crafts and more. Tickets cost $20. Visit https://ssa.cc/tickets.htm. WORLDWIDE DAY OF PLAY When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd. Details: Attend this free event in the museum’s Granada Pavilion Courtyard. Build using stacking blocks, enjoy the mini art stations, read a book and make music with instruments. Day of Play is part of a global initiative launched by Nickelodeon and the Association of Children’s Museums to get kids outside to play. Free. PIONEERS, MILLIONAIRES, AND HURRICANES: THE EXTRAORDINARY 115-YEAR HISTORY OF THE ORMOND YACHT CLUB When: 10-11 a.m. Where: Anderson-Price Memorial Building, 42 N. Beach St., Ormond Beach Details: Join the Ormond Beach Historical Society for a journey through the 115-year history of the Ormond Yacht Club. The presentation’s speaker will be Greg Snell. Free to society members; non-members are $10. iFISH FLAGLER IN-SHORE TOURNAMENT When: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Where: Herschel King Park, 1000 Grady Prather Jr. Cove, Palm Coast Details: Presented by the Flagler Home Builders Association, this is iFish Flagler’s 13th annual in-shore fishing tournament. Early registration is $100 per angler. Kids division (ages 4-15) is $50 per child. Visit iFishFlagler.com.
SUNDAY, SEPT. 27
BAROQUE CONCERT When: 3-4 p.m. Where: St. James Episcopal Church, 44 S. Halifax Drive, Ormond Beach Details: St. James Episcopal Church presents “Baroque Splendor,” a concert of music from the Baroque era featuring three guest artists on trumpet, soprano, and mezzo-soprano, all affiliated with Stetson University, with organist and St. James Director of Music Quinn Moss. Free.
TUESDAY, SEPT. 29
LEARN & EXPLORE: STOP SCAMMERS IN THEIR TRACKS When: 3 p.m. Where: Ormond Beach Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach Details: An interactive early learning experience designed for school-age children. Children may drop in anytime during program hours to explore stories in a variety of ways through books, audiobooks, educational technology, virtual resources, building activities, scavenger hunts, and hands-on play. No registration required. FLAGLER BEACH HISTORICAL MUSEUM’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY When: 6:30 p.m. Where: Flagler Beach Historical Museum, 207 S. Central Ave., Flagler Beach Details: The Flagler Beach Historical Museum will celebrate its 25th anniversary with a reception recognizing the people, stories and community support that have helped preserve local history.
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 30
FALL WREATH MAKING WORKSHOP When: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Where: Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, 78 E. Granada Blvd. Details: Make a grapevine wreath using greenery from
YOUR TOWN
Realty Pros Assured to host free annual community night Realty Pros Assured will host its annual Community Appreciation Night on Friday, Oct. 2, from 6-9 p.m. at The Casements, 25 Riverside Drive in Ormond Beach. The event is free and open to the public. The evening will feature trunk-or-treating, a trackless train, face painting, balloon animals, hot dogs, popcorn, cotton candy and snow cones. A Kids Costume Contest begins at 6:15 p.m. with categories for Scariest, Funniest and Most Creative. Registration is limited to 25 participants per category. The event will also feature a free showing of “E.T. the ExtraTerrestrial.” Realty Pros Assured was established in Ormond Beach in 2008 by Bill Navarra and Buzzy Porter.
Peabody to present ‘Clifford the Big Red Dog: The Musical’ As part of the Peabody Auditorium Foundation’s Young
the OMAM gardens along with painted flowers. Tuition includes supplies. This outdoor program in the Garden Gazebo is presented in partnership with The Council of Garden Clubs. Costs $55 for members; $65 for nonmembers. Register at www. ormondartmuseum.org/ classes-programs. AMENDMENT 3 PANEL When: 6 p.m. Where: Palm Coast Commu-
Audience Series, now in its sixth season, the nonprofit organization is presenting TheaterWorksUSA’s, “Clifford The Big Red Dog: The Musical” at the News-Journal Center on Saturday, Oct. 10, at 2 p.m. Admission is $25 per person and can be purchased by visiting www.peabodyfoundation.org. To help highlight all things Clifford, the Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens as well as Early Learning Coalition are getting in on the act. OMAM will include Clifford the Big Red Dog in its World Wide Day of Play on Sept. 26, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in which ELC will be featured from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Clifford will also play a role in the Museum’s Free Family Art night on Friday Oct. 2, 5:30-7pm. “The mission of our Young Audience Series is to provide youth and family audiences with affordable opportunities to experience engaging, educational and entertaining live cultural performances in our community that foster an appreciation of the arts,” Peabody Auditorium Foundation President Rene Bell Adams said. “We are so appreciative of OMAM and ELC, for all they do for our community’s families.” For sponsorship, donation information or tickets, visit peabodyfoundation.org.
nity Center 305 Palm Coast Parkway, Palm Coast Details: The Flagler Tiger Bay Club will host a free Community Town Hall on Amendment 3. The Community Town Hall will bring together Flagler County’s five constitutional officers to discuss the referendum, and what passage or failure of the referendum could mean for Flagler County. Visit https://www. flaglertigerbayclub.com.
There’s something special about Palm Coast. Miles of trails beneath the palms. Mornings along the water. Neighbors who become friends. A quieter pace, with plenty still ahead. There are countless reasons people come to Palm Coast. The reasons they stay are what make it special. We believe knowing a place matters just as much as knowing real estate. And we’re proud to know Palm Coast. Thinking of buying or selling? Let’s Talk Palm Coast.
The Complete Real Estate Experience REAL ESTATE | PROPERTY MANAGEMENT | COMMERCIAL | MORTGAGE | TITLE | INSURANCE | RELOCATION
Connect with us today. 5048 NORTH OCEANSHORE BOULEVARD | PALM COAST, FL 32137 | 904-296-6400 | FLORIDANETWORKREALTY.COM ©2026 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. Information not verified or guaranteed. If your home is currently listed with a Broker, this is not intended as a solicitation.
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
3B
YOUR SCHOOLS CLASS NOTES Suncoast celebrates 14th anniversary
Phil DeAugustino, FPC’s IB guidance counselor and guidance counselor chair, presents Jack Magee with his National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist certificate. Courtesy photo/Flagler Schools
Flagler Palm Coast’s Jackson Magee named a National Merit semifinalist Magee is in the running for about 6,700 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $24 million. BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Flagler Palm Coast High School senior Jackson Magee has been named Flagler County’s only 2027 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist. He is one of over 16,000 semifinalists representing less than 1% of high school seniors. Magee is in the running for about 6,700 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $24 million that will be offered next spring. “It’s a great honor,” Magee
told the Observer. “The most surprising thing to me was that I was the only one in the county to receive this honor. I know that I’m good at taking the SAT, but I didn’t realize that I would be the only one to achieve such a thing.” To enter the National Merit Scholarship Program, high school juniors must take the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. The highest scoring students in each state are selected as semifinalists with the number proportional to the state’s percentage of U.S. graduating seniors. About 15,000 national semifinalists will be selected in February as National Merit Scholarship Finalists, according to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Magee plans to major in mechanical engineering. He
said he is applying to universities both in and out of state, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He said he has always been interested in how things work. “I’ve passed through many phases of interest,” Magee said. “I’ve gone through architecture. I’ve thought about civil engineering and then settled on mechanical engineering. You can do so many things with mechanical engineering.” Magee is in FPC’s International Baccalaureate program and is a member of the National Honor Society. He also plays alto saxophone in the FPC marching band and is a member of the Bulldogs’ boys weightlifting team. He said he is planning to offer PSAT and SAT tutoring to FPC students.
Suncoast Community School in Palm Coast celebrated its 14th anniversary on Sept. 10. Students and staff turned the milestone event into a day of fun, featuring a teacher dunk tank, a cookout lunch, an energetic glow party, and a variety of lively games. “Marking 14 years of dedication, growth and community spirit is a remarkable achievement,” the school said in a press release. “The administration, teachers and staff express deep gratitude to every student and family who has contributed to the journey since day one. This legacy of learning and connection continues to grow stronger, paving the way for even brighter horizons ahead.”
Flagler schools integrates Kids4Reel
Flagler County Schools and the Flagler County Education Foundation have integrated the Kids4Reel junior fishing
Suncoast Community School students LeeAnne Marcey, Jazilyn Goodison, Kaia Natale and Keira Mohammed. Courtesy photo
program into district schools. Already active in individual schools, the partnership blends outdoor mentorship with marine education including conservation and water safety; classroom and club support; and community mentorship partnering with civic organizations. “We have long admired Kids4Reel for their youth fishing clinics and marine science exhibits,” Flagler Schools Superintendent LaShakia Moore said. “Making them a core district program gives our students meaningful, hands-on learning experiences beyond the traditional classroom.” Donor contributions fund the student fishing gear, marine science supplies and clinic resources. For information on how to donate, visit flagleredfoundation.org.
Barbara Hernandez, business office manager; Darlinda Copeland, CEO; and Amy Barbuti, food services director, pose with peanut butter donations during Paradise Pointe’s Fill the Pantry & Fill the Heart community networking event. Courtesy photo
Paradise Pointe donates 550 jars of peanut butter to Provision Packs Paradise Pointe Assisted Living and Memory Care recently collected 550 jars of peanut butter for Provision Packs, an Ormond Beach-based nonprofit that helps feed local students. The facility’s peanut butter drive started with Paradise Pointe staff, residents, families and friends coming together to donate jars throughout the summer, according to a news release. In August, Paradise Pointe expanded the effort by hosting its “Fill the Pantry & Fill the Heart” networking event. “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this possible,” said Darlinda Copeland, CEO and administrator of Paradise Pointe. “What started as a simple idea to collect peanut butter grew into a true community effort. Seeing our residents, families, staff and community partners come together to support local children has been incredibly meaningful.” Provision Packs started the school year by serving approximately 439 kids (6,146) meals in week 1, 768 kids (10,752 meals) in week 2, and 779 kids (10,906 meals) in week 3 to students across 20 schools throughout Volusia and Flagler counties.
Join SMART for the
4th Annual
FREE
TO THE PUBLIC
Sat., Sept. 26 - 3-7pm th
TOWN CENTER PARK 975 CENTRAL AVE. PALM COAST
FUN for the WHOLE FAMILY!
• CAR SHOW WITH AWARDS • KIDS ZONE WITH LOTS OF FUN • FINGERPRINTING 4 KIDS/FCSO CAR SHOW PRESENTED BY: • DOG FRIENDLY EVENT • MUSIC BY DJ • PET BLESSINGS • 4-5PM
FOOD TRUCKS LOCAL VENDORS & More!
THANK YOU TO OUR MAJOR SPONSORS
10
Homes & Watts Electrical Services
$
CAR REGISTRATION FEE AT GATE
386-264-2288 smartflagler.com
4B
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
REAL ESTATE PALM COAST
A house in Hammock Beach sells for $1.9M A
house in The Conservatory at Hammock Beach at 229 Conservatory Drive was the top real estate transaction for the week of Sept. 5-11 in Flagler County. The house sold on Sep. 11, for $1,900,000. Built in 2023, the house is a 5/5 and has pool, a spa, an outdoor kitchen and 4,272 square feet. It sold in 2023 for $1,343,300. The house was listed by Shannon Brooks, of Realty Pros Assured. ALEXIS MILLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Condos A condo at 200 Ocean Crest Drive, Unit 924, sold on Sep. 10, for $320,000. Built in 2003, the condo is a 1/1 and has 678 square feet. It sold in 2018 for $182,000.
A condo at 102 Yacht Harbor Drive, Unit 263, sold on Sep. 10, for $345,000. Built in 2006, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,351 square feet. It sold in 2015 for $208,000. A condo at 4600 E. Moody Blvd., Unit 12F, sold on Sep. 10, for $140,000. Built in 2005, the condo is a 2/2 and has 1,035 square feet. It sold in 2019 for $96,000.
Lane sold on Sep. 11, for $350,000. Built in 2000, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,408 square feet. It sold in 2026 for $325,000. A house at 33 Phoenix Lane sold on Sep. 11, for $338,000. Built in 2003, the house is a 4/2 and has 1,960 square feet. It sold in 2025 for $320,000. Palm Harbor A house at 7 Cedarford Court sold on Sep. 11, for $770,000. Built in 1981, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a pool, a dock and 1,959 square feet. It sold in 2024 for $765,000.
A house at 24 Felter Lane sold on Sep. 9, for $283,395. Built
in 1974, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,510 square feet. It sold in 2026 for $182,300. Pine Grove A house at 8 Post Oak Lane sold on Sep. 11, for $272,000. Built in 2020, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,555 square feet. It sold in 2020 for $193,000.
A house at 38 Pittwick Lane sold on Sep. 11, for $237,000. Built in 2003, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,506 square feet. A house at 15 Poinsettia Lane sold on Sep. 10, for $325,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 3/2 and has 2,013 square feet. It sold in 2021 for $279,900. Quail Hollow A house at 15 Kalanchoe Court sold on Sep. 11, for $220,000. Built in 1992, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,235 square feet. It sold in 2004 for $148,500. Seminole Palms A house at 1329 Ribbon Place sold on Sep. 11, for $474,990. Built in 2026, the house is a 5/3.5 and has 3,161 square feet. Seminole Woods A house at 214 Enclave Ave. sold on Sep. 10, for $345,997. Built in 2025, the house is a 4/3 and has 2,070 square feet.
Toby Tobin, of gotoby.com, contributed to this report.
PALM COAST
Belle Terre A house at 52 Pershing Lane sold on Sep. 11, for $337,500. Built in 2025, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,555 square feet.
A house at 12 Princess Kim
R E A L E S TAT E G R O U P
DIANE ESPOSITO Realtor
386-986-9127 | Dianejesposito@outlook.com 2 Camino Del Mar, Palm Coast | HammockProperties4Sale.com
Helping Buyers & Sellers in Palm Coast Achieve Exceptional Results for over 30 Years.
Direct Oceanfront Home in Hammock Dunes 41 Calle del Sur $4,475,000 Contact me for your Private Tour
Lot for sale: 3715 N. Ocean Shore Blvd., Lot 2. $825,000
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
5B
REAL ESTATE ORMOND BEACH
House on North Beach Street sells for $2.75M A
house with Halifax River views at 763 N. Beach St. was the top real estate transaction in Ormond Beach and Ormond-by-theSea for the week of Aug. 29 to Sept. 4. The house sold on Aug. 31, for $2.75 million. Built in 1987, the house is a 7/7.5 and has two fireplaces, a pool, an outdoor kitchen, a dock and 8,657 square feet. It last sold in 2005 for $2,157,500. The house was listed by Buzzy Porter, of Realty Pros Assured. MANAGING EDITOR
ORMOND BEACH
house is a 2/2 and has 1,532 square feet. It last sold in 2017 for $175,000.
Halifax Plantation The house at 1442 Dolph Circle sold on Aug. 31, for $660,000. Built in 2005, the house is a 3/2 and has a fireplace, a pool, a spa and 2,594 square feet. It last sold in 2014 for $365,000.
Lauderdale The house at 129 Country Club Drive sold on Sept. 2, for $375,000. Built in 1960, the house is a /2 and has a fireplace and 1,650 square feet. It last sold in 2014 for $187,500.
The house at 1321 Wicklow Lane sold on Aug. 31, for $600,000. Built in 1998, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a fireplace, a pool and 2,467 square feet. It last sold in 2005 for $430,000.
Northbrook The house at 3 Overbrook Court sold on Sept. 1, for $306,500. Built in 1978, the house is a 3/2 ad has 1,522 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $198,500.
The house at 1105 Glengad Run sold on Sept. 2, for $280,000. Built in 2000, the
Not in subdivision The house at 776 Riverside Drive sold on Aug. 31, for
OSPREY COVE OCEANFRONT
This 2-bathSerene home oasis sits on large corner lot. 4-BR,2-bedroom, 2-BA, 2-CG Home. on a2.34 acres. Kitchen The floors throughout,and a spacious has home been features updated terrazzo with new countertops has an kitchen withoflots of cabinets and counter and an abundance cabinet and countertop space. space, Split bedroom attached 1-car garage. The fenced backyard includes plan. Master bedroom features trey ceiling, private batha storage shed and a back patioalso areafeatures that’s perfect for grilling, and spacious closet. Home enclosed Florida relaxing, entertaining. With layout and a room andora screened-in patio witha afunctional hot tub. MLS#1112983 generously $675,000 sized lot, this home is ready for its next owner. $235,000. Call Buzzy Porter 386-405-1000. Call Buzzy Porter 386-405-1000.
Completely remodeled condo from floor to ceiling with highStunning Key West-style gatedNew Osprey end upgrades! 16th floorwaterfront with directhome oceaninviews. AC Cove, New Smyrna Beach, on serene Turnbull Bay. Features unit (2019) and water heater (2016). The community offers three kitchen, two-sided fireplace, elevator, accessfloors, to theirchef’s 20th-floor penthouse/clubhouse, game room, and a top-floor masterjacuzzi, suite tranquil with private Ground exercise room, indoor sauna,balcony. in-ground pool floor opens area. to a MLS#1110461 screened patio$475,000 and private dock. Threeand grilling car metal roof, and breathtaking water views Call garage, Buzzy Porter at 386-405-1000. throughout. Luxury coastal living at its finest. $1,700,000. Call Buzzy Porter 386-405-1000.
Ormond Terrace The house at 183 Hernandez Ave. sold on Aug. 31, for $225,000. Built in 1954, the house is a 3/1 and has 1,040 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $90,000. Rio Vista Gardens The house at 688 Alcazar Ave. sold on Aug. 31, for $363,000. Built in 1924, the house is a 3/2.5 and has two fireplaces and 2,393 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $315,000. Rogers Park The house at 94 Rogers Park Drive sold on Sept. 2, for $230,000. Built in 1955, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,008 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $230,000. The Woods The house at 105 Riverside Drive sold on Sept. 2, for $1.5 million. Built in 1967, the house is a 5/5 and has two
RIVERFRONT ESTATE ORMOND BEACH
Remarkableretreat waterfront estate currently by an Ocean awardBeachside with deeded access toowned the Atlantic winning musician offers a harmonious blend of opulence and just moments from your front door. This 2-bedroom, 2-bath functionality. Presently used as a second home and a music home. No HOA. Short-term rental allowed $899,900. Call studio,Barbeiro this property presents a unique opportunity to own a Grace 386-334-9997. truly exceptional residence. 4-bedroom, 4-bath, 2 half-bath . $2,200,000 Call Bill Navarra 386-334-9991.
ARemarkable remarkableriverfront direct riverfront epitomizing luxury estate inestate Ormond Beach. Designed coastal living architect in Ormond on a landscaped by renowned BenBeach. ButeraSituated and executed by Forever half-acre homesite, custom-built residenceofoffers more Homes, this propertythis showcases the pinnacle luxury and than 5,300 square designed space,provides where sophistication. 5BR, feet 5BA,ofand 2 half living bathrooms, expansive riverforviews The floor living plan ample space familyframe and everyday guests. Anlife.impressive offers a dedicated office, with three area offive overbedrooms 7,500 sq plus ft, and sitting on almost an acre lot. guest bedrooms upstairs. $2,850,000. Call Grace Barbeiro $5,500,000 386-334-9997. Call Bill Navarra 386-334-9991. DAYTONA BEACH JOHN ANDERSON
DAYTONA COUNTRY BEACH ACRES
ACREAGE DREAM HOME!2-bed, 6-BR, 4-BA, openwith floorstudy plan Beautifully maintained 2-bath2-CG home home. Close to town. Private airplane runway, detached in Huntington, a sought-after 55+ community within barn/workshop over 5,000 ft. Breathtaking lake home views Hunters Ridge. Situated on sq a quiet cul-de-sac, this with a floating dock. tile, Homegranite also includes an in-ground pool features wood-look and quartz countertops, with a summer kitchen and pool bath. This home isn’t just plantation shutters, and a private fenced lanai with a property; it’s an embodiment of a luxurious lifestyle. southern exposure. HOA covers lawn care, roof, cable, MLS#1112704 and more. Enjoy$1,650,000 three pools, tennis, and a fitness center.. Call Buzzy Porter 386-405-1000. $350,000. Call Buzzy Porter 386-405-1000.
The house at 80 Tomoka Ave. sold on Sept. 3, for $262,000. Built in 1924, the house is a 5/2.5 and has 2,160 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $260,000.
JOHN ADERSON ORMOND BEACH
Knollwood The house at 35 Sandra Drive sold on Sept. 1, for $520,000. Built in 1963, the house is a 4/2 and has a fireplace, a pool and 1,761 square feet. It last sold in 1994 for $70,000.
HUNTERS RIDGE 10-ACRE LOT
Dianne Shores The house at 93 Dianne Drive sold on Sept. 1, for $462,000. Built in 1974, the house is a 3/2.5 and has 1,687 square feet. It last sold in 2024 for $390,000.
$2 million. Built in 1974, the house is a 5/4 and has a fireplace, a pool, a dock, a boat house and 4,254 square feet. It last sold in 1983 for $285,000.
Welcome to this your2020-built dream home on the most sought-after street Step inside 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage in Ormond This riverfront house offers an unparalleled home and Beach! you immediately notice how beautifully it lives, livingthe experience breathtaking of the from from crisp curbwith appeal and paverviews driveway to river the clean, every room. 3.2interior. bath. new boathouse and lift.with modern lines3 bed of the Thedock, kitchen is a standout, Call Bill Navarra granite counters,386-334-9991. white cabinetry, subway tile backsplash, and stainless-steel appliances centered around a large island that opens seamlessly to the living area, perfect for everyday life and entertaining. $565000. Call Grace Barbeiro 386-334-9997
HOMES ARE SELLING FAST! WE NEED MORE LISTINGS TO SELL!
410017-1
JARLEENE ALMENAS
The house at 763 N. Beach St. sold on Aug. 31, for $2.75 million. Photo courtesy of Buzzy Porter/ Realty Pros Assured
fireplaces, a pool, an outdoor kitchen and 4,476 square feet. It last sold in 2016 for $798,000. Tomoka Oaks The house at 27 N. St. Andrews Drive sold on Aug. 31, for $437,900. Built in 1969, the house is a 3/2.5 and has a fireplace, a pool and 2,083 square feet. It last sold in 1977 for $51,500.
The house at 15 Oakmont Circle sold on Sept. 2, for $440,000. Built in 1970, the house is a 3/2.5 and has 2,364 square feet. It last sold in 2005 for $349,900. Tropical Mobile Home Village The manufactured home at 1807 Woodcrest Drive sold on Sept. 1, for $200,000. Built in 2022, the manufactured home is a 3/2 and has 1,312 square feet. It last sold in 2022 for $240,000.
ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA Neptune The house at 9 Neptune Park Drive sold on Aug. 31, for $515,000. Built in 1951, the house is a 3/1.5 and has a fireplace and 1,156 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $445,000.
Not in subdivision The house at 36 Ocean Shore Drive sold on Aug. 31, for
WEST DAYTONA BEACH
A house in Latitude Margaritaville at 440 Good Life Way was the top real estate transaction in Daytona Beach’s 32124 zip code for the week of Aug. 29 to Sept. 4. The house sold on Sept. 4, for $520,000. Built in 2021, the house is a 2/2 and has a pool and 1,563 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $357,100. The house was listed by Kelley Sarantis, of Bob Hodges and Sons Realty. Daytona Highridge The house at 5 General Doolittle Road sold on Sept. 3, for $214,000. Built in 1980, the house is a 3/2 and has 1,344 square feet. Grande Champion The house at 312 Birkdale Drive sold on Sept. 2, for $405,000. Built in 2014, the house is a 3/2 and has a pool and 1,797 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $365,000.
$304,000. Built in 1954, the house is a 2/1 and has 978 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $295,000.
Latitude Margaritaville The house at 495 Landshark Blvd. sold on Sept. 2, for $355,000. Built in 2021, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,308 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $258,400.
The house at 280 Last Mango Drive sold on Sept. 3, for $365,000. Built in 2025, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,456 square feet. It last sold in 2025 for $363,600. The townhome at 544 Lost Shaker Way sold on Sept. 1, for $440,000. Built in 2019, the townhome is a 2/2 and has 1,608 square feet. It last sold in 2019 for $284,000. LPGA The house at 144 Mendoza Circle sold on Aug. 31, for $257,500. Built in 2010, the house is a 2/2 and has 1,625 square feet. It last sold in 2021 for $284,900.
John Adams, of Adams, Cameron & Co. Realtors, contributed to this report.
6B
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
BUSINESS White Castle brings a taste of nostalgia to Daytona Beach The company’s fourth freestanding Florida restaurant is now open on LPGA, bringing about 60 jobs. RICH CARROLL MULTIMEDIA PRODUCER
For longtime White Castle fans who grew up eating sliders but moved away from the chain’s traditional markets, the wait is over. White Castle has opened a new Daytona Beach restaurant at 1944 LPGA Boulevard, near Interstate 95. The restaurant is the company’s fourth freestanding location in Florida and is bringing about 60 jobs to the area. The opening also brings a 105-year-old fast-food brand to a community where company officials say customers have been asking for a location. “We’re so excited to be right here with our fourth freestanding White Castle,” Chief Marketing Officer Jamie Richardson said. “Daytona Beach was so welcoming, and when they reached out and said, ‘Would you like to come and visit?’ We said, ‘Absolutely, yes.’” Richardson said White Castle’s connection with customers goes beyond its signature square sliders. For many customers, especially those who grew up with the chain before relocating to Florida, a trip to White Castle can bring back
memories. “As a 105-year-old familyowned business, we exist to create memorable moments every day,” Richardson said. Florida Regional Director Theresa Kaszubski said employees have already seen evidence of that anticipation while preparing the Daytona Beach restaurant. “There have been a lot of Cravers pulling into this parking lot,” Kaszubski said. “They’re eagerly anticipating this location to be open.” Kaszubski said the company hears stories from customers who remember visiting White Castle with their parents and grandparents and can now introduce another generation to the restaurant. “It’s not just satisfying the crave, it is actually bringing back those memories,” she said. “We remember when the grandparents took us to a White Castle, and now they could take their children.” White Castle traces its history to 1921 and describes itself as America’s first fast-food hamburger chain. Kaszubski has her own long history with the company, saying she has worked for White Castle for more than 45 years. The Daytona Beach restaurant joins freestanding Florida locations in the Orlando area, Clermont and Kissimmee, according to Daytona Operating Manager Francis Nation. Nation said Daytona Beach’s tourism industry and major events such as the Daytona 500 made the area attractive, but customer demand also
played a role. “We select the location because of our customers,” Nation said. “They talk to us, they tell us, ‘Hey, we want a White Castle here in Daytona.’ ... We listen to our customers, and that is why we’re here for Daytona.” The restaurant will offer White Castle’s traditional beef sliders along with chicken rings, fish and chicken options and a breakfast menu. Kaszubski said the company has also brought back its Southwest veggie slider. The new restaurant will initially operate from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m., Richardson said. White Castle plans to gradually expand those hours over the next several weeks until the Daytona Beach restaurant is open 24 hours a day. When that happens, Richardson said customers will see a nighttime twist outside the restaurant. “When the sun goes down, that sign is going to turn from White Castle to Night Castle to make sure everybody knows we’re here for them 24/7,” Richardson said. The company is also adding about 60 employees at the Daytona Beach location. Nation said the jobs are another way White Castle hopes to become part of the community. Richardson said the company is looking forward to finally opening the doors. “When that ribbon is cut and the door is open,” he said, “it’s unlike anything else.”
Your hometown is ours, too. And we’re committed to helping it grow. Investing time and resources into our communities has been part of the Intracoastal Bank story since day one. From supporting local businesses to funding dreams and giving back, every decision we make is guided by those we serve. Come experience a bank committed to making a bigger difference.
Gerhard and Juli Claassen hold a glass of kava and botanical beer, respectively, inside their new kombucha bar, First Coast Kava Kombucha. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
‘Perfect’: First Coast Kava Kombucha bar opens on Granada in Ormond Juli and Gerhard Claassen begin a new chapter for their Merritt Island-based kombucha brewery. JARLEENE ALMENAS MANAGING EDITOR
Merritt Island’s Big Dog Kombucha has expanded to Ormond Beach by opening its first kombucha bar in town. While Big Dog has tap locations in existing kava bars in Ormond Beach, Daytona, DeLand and Palm Coast, the recent opening of First Coast Kava Kombucha, at 500 W. Granada Blvd., marked a new venture for owners Juli and Gerhard Claassen. “We’ve kind of always been looking for that next space, and Ormond Beach was just perfect,” Juli said. The couple founded Big Dog five years ago in Merritt Island and quickly built a following — enough that they outgrew their original facility less than a year after starting the business, said Juli. Then this year, they moved into a 7,000-square-foot brewing facility and taproom in Merritt Island. As kombucha rises in popularity as an alternative to alcoholic beverages, the Claassens knew expanding their business would be their next step. According to a report by Research and Markets, the American kombucha market is projected to expand from $1.20 billion in 2024 to $2.96 billion by 2033. The space the Claassens
BIZ BUZZ New real estate agents in town Weichert affiliated offices in Ormond Beach and Palm Coast have recently added two new agents. Christy Gartner joins agents at Weichert, Realtors — Hallmark Properties, located at 1185 W. Granada Blvd., Suite 6, in Ormond Beach. Laura Neel joins agents at Weichert, Realtors – Hallmark Properties, located at 9 Harbor Center Drive, Suite 15, in Palm Coast.
Rue & Ziffra partners with Dodge for free driving school
Flagler 386.447.1662 Volusia 386.274.5304 Invested. Innovative. Inspired. Hometwon_Intracoastal_Print Intracoastal BankAds_vF.indd 1
support@intracoastal.bank intracoastal.bank 4/9/26 10:04 AM
Rue & Ziffra has partnered with Daytona Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram to present a free Teen Safety Driving School on Saturday, Oct. 3. The event will be held on the Truck Pad at the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach. Students will be instructed in the fundamentals as well as the
found for their new First Coast Kava Kombucha in Ormond Beach was ideal. Juli said it didn’t need any renovations. Just a few coats of paint and some new furniture and the space was ready for what they envisioned. “We have a lot of hopes for this,” Juli said. “We think that the products be received because they’re better than anything else out there.” For the Claassens, brewing kombucha was inspired by her Juli’s father and raspberry tea. Juli and her dad are originally from Buffalo, New York, and every time they’d go out to eat, he’d order a raspberry tea. Her father didn’t drink alcohol, and that inspired Gerhard to look into nonalcoholic fermentation. “He started making kombucha at our house,” Juli recalled. “You know how people have all those pictures that say, ‘the kitchen,’ ‘the laundry?’ Mine was going to be ‘the lab’ because it really was. It was like a lab for about a year.” The first flavor they made? Raspberry Bliss. The Claassens then started giving away their kombucha to neighbors and serving it to friends when they came over. Soon, people began asking to buy it. At the time, Gerhard was working for Papa Johns International. Juli, who studied to be a pastor, worked in publishing for McGraw Hill for many years and became a real estate agent when she and Gerhard returned to the states from South Africa, where they got married. After the feedback they received from friends and fam-
ily, Gerhard decided to leave his career to open up Big Dog. “He’s like, ‘I don’t know, people really love this stuff — I think it’s going to sell,’” Juli recalled. Today, the Claassens offer several flavors of kombucha, made using fresh fruit and raw honey from local suppliers. Big Dog also offers kava, their “plant medicine” — including their 21-and-up botanical beer, a kratom kombucha — and kratom tea. Their kava is sourced from an island in Fiji called Qamea. “Five years ago, it was the first time that they came looking for a market,” Gerhard said. “The guy just walked into my spot about two or three months after we opened.” The Claassens receive photos of the village and the local kids they’re able to help with things like new shoes and uniforms, as selling their kava to Big Dog is one of their main sources of income, Juli said. They hope to create a community in Ormond Beach around Big Dog, just like the one they’ve been able to foster in Merritt Island. “We hope to build a community here of neighbors and families,” Juli said. “A lot of kava bars are kind of fringe places, and that’s really not what we want to have here. We want to have a place where people can come with their kids, come with their spouse on a date, bring their family here. ... Our weakness is that we don’t know anybody here, but we also have high hopes that our products will speak for themselves, because literally, once people try them, they’re blown away.”
dangers of driving and all cars will have a drift machine attached to them for control. The class will provide a hands-on experience for student drivers. The driving school, taught by professional instructors, is open to Volusia and Flagler County drivers ages 15-19 who have a valid Florida driver’s license or permit. It will be taught in three separate 2.5hour classes of 25 students each starting at 9 a.m. “We wanted to offer this course because there are so many accidents involving students who don’t have the experience to regain control of a car that begins to lose control,” said Allan Ziffra, managing partner of the longtime Port Orangebased law firm, celebrating its 50th year. Students must pre-register by visiting https://teensafetydriving.school.
the University of Miami and is majoring in political science and communications, with a minor in sports administration on the pre-law track. “We are thrilled to welcome another of our Summer Interns back to the firm,” said Erum Kistemaker, the firm’s managing attorney and shareholder. “The program, which is now in its 14th year, has been quite productive for us — and we are looking forward to next year’s students!” Norko has known she wanted to be a lawyer since her freshman year of high school and she hopes to pursue a career in sports and entertainment law. At UM, she is a member of the Phi-Alpha Delta Pre-Law fraternity, with involvement in Zeta Tau Alpha as well. These past two semesters, she’s earned President’s Honor Roll of 4.0 and continues to strive for that throughout her academic career. She will be graduating a year early. For more information about the Kistemaker Business Law Group Summer Internship program, visit daytonabusinesslawyers.com.
Kistemaker Business Law Group adds new legal assistant Jillian Norko, a participant in Kistemaker Business Law Group’s Summer Internship program this year, is starting as the firm’s new legal assistant this fall, according to a news release. Norko is a student at
What’s new in your business? Email stories and photos to Jarleene Almenas at jarleene@ observerlocalnews.com.
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Brought to you by:
FOCUS ON FAITH Eleven weddings in five hours, at Tomoka Christian Church ‘It’s just a gift to the community, and we’ll do this as long as the Lord says we should.’
“The whole building’s full of love and joy,” Putting said. “We’re over 100 weddings now. It’s a lot of fun.” Tyler and Holly Stewart were the first of 11 weddings performed. They also had the largest wedding party of the
evening. “I just want to cry,” Holly Stewart said. “[I’m] just overwhelmed with joy.” Her husband couldn’t agree more. “It’s an amazing, beautiful blessing from God,” Tyler
Stewart said. “I can’t be more grateful than what it is. It’s just such an amazing opportunity and blessing to be here with so many loved ones, support systems. It’s a God-given gift.” Couples and their wedding
community work together to fill them? These and other questions about serving the generations will guide the conversation during the fall Sharing Conference presented by the Interfaith and Community Resource Network. The event will take place
from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, at BethuneCookman University’s Center for Civic Engagement, 740 W. International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach. Doors will open at 9:30 a.m. for networking. The conference is free and open to all. The IC Resource
Network’s seasonal conferences are geared toward helping service providers and people of faith in and around Volusia County learn from one another and identify opportunities for collaboration. Network leaders encourage houses of worship, nonprofit organizations and
government agencies to send participants. The conference will include speakers whose work focuses on specific age groups. The unique needs of veterans will also be covered. Information tables will be staffed by nonprofit organizations and other service providers.
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Eleven couples tied the knot in five hours for free at Tomoka Christian Church on Friday, Sept. 18. Over 60 volunteers helped make it happen, at no cost to the brides and grooms. It’s a tradition that Pastor Joe Putting started after he was inspired to help couples eliminate cost as a reason for not getting married. “Pastor Joe put a little note in our mailbox that said, ‘Free weddings, let’s discuss’,” said Christina Moore, the Director of Engagement at Tomoka Christian Church. “Everything that you see, from the cakes, to the flowers, to the photography, to all the hours of work that we poured into it, the volunteers, they pay nothing. It’s just a gift to the community and we’ll do this as long as the Lord says we should.” Friday marked the 11th year that Tomoka Christian Church has dedicated one special day a year to hold free wedding ceremonies.
IC Resource Network event coming to B-CU What are houses of worship, nonprofit organizations and government agencies doing to meet the needs of every generation? What gaps exist and how can all sectors of the
Stephenson, Wilcox and Associates
parties and guests start out in the holding area, then go into the dedicated ceremony space. There was a decorated stage with lighting, floral arrangements, and a live pianist and violinist. After the wedding ceremony, the wedding group goes into the hallway where the couple sign their marriage certificate, then, go into the reception area. “Inside the reception area, they have worked with me for months to plan out their own songs,” Moore said. “ We have a cake in there for them with flowers and stuff, and so a seating area for all the friends and family to go in there, and they get to have a unique experience.” The group spends about 20-25 minutes in the reception area. After cutting the cake, doing their first dance, and saying hello to some of their guests, the party heads into a third room where there is food and tables to continue the greeting and reception. As soon as the wedding party leaves these rooms, volunteers swoop in, clean up, straighten up, and reset everything, so that it’s just like new for the next wedding party to come in and experience it. As they move to the next room, one couple takes
ABE MILLS
Tyler and Holly Stewart kiss after getting married. Photos by Rachel Mills
their cake with them and the next couple has their cake set up in its place. “I am overwhelmed and I’m so grateful that our son found a beautiful young woman to be his wife,” said Audrey Burgher, mother of one of the grooms. “We’re very excited about this marriage for them. It’s a generous mission for the church to support marriage.” Her son, David Burgher, and his wife, Kali, were married at the event. “I’m so good,” Kali Burgher said. “Wonderful!” David and Kali grinned from ear to ear at each other as they were asked what they feel. “Joy and happiness,” David Burgher said.
David Burgher and Kali Burgher kiss at their wedding at Tomoka Christian Church.
Free health screenings will be offered. For more information, call Sue Odena at 407760-2304 or email news@ icresourcenetwork.org.
Funds raised will support the church's community outreach to help families in need, as well as for campus security upgrades to the school. Palm Coast Ford and Daytona Toyota are providing hole-in-one car prizes.
For more information, call Gene Graybosch at 386-503-8999
7B
Scan to visit seaspcfl.org/golf
He-Man gears up
SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
SPORTS
FPC football star Ehimen ‘He-Man’ Ajede considers future career in fire or medicine. PAGE 9B
A GAME OF INCHES
Wiley Conner (34) loses the ball as he is tackled at the goal line. Did the ball break the plane first? The referees ruled it was a fumble, and Menendez recovered in the end zone. Photos by Keishia McLendon
Matanzas rally falls short in loss to Menendez BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Matanzas fans had been waiting over a month to watch their team play its 2026 home opener. After three road games sandwiched around a lightning-delayed postponement at the Ship, the Pirates finally treated their home crowd to an exciting game. But a win was not in the cards for the hosts as Menendez held off Matanzas’ second-half charge to win 20-15 on Friday, Sept. 18. The Pirates (0-4) overcame four first-half turnovers to give themselves a chance to win their first game of the season, but the Falcons (2-2) converted a key third down with two minutes left to fend off the Matanzas comeback. The Pirates got the ball back with eight seconds left at their own 23, but Michael McDonough’s pass to Wiley Conner and Conner’s lateral to DJ Harris went about 20 yards before Harris was tackled with no time left. The Pirates trailed 20-0 after the Falcons scored on Caden Hedrick’s 20-yard pass to Carlos Hamilton with two minutes left in the third quarter. But Conner scored on a 40-yard run as time ran out in the quarter, and Brady Putis took a bad snap and passed to Mari Arneaud for the 2-point conversion. Matanzas closed the gap to 20-15 with 4:51 left in the game on Harris’ 9-yard touchdown run and Alexander Taylor’s extra-point kick. But Menendez held the ball until the final eight seconds with Hedrick keeping the possession alive with a 7-yard pass to Hamilton on third-and-5. “Four turnovers are tough to overcome,” Matanzas coach Matt Forrest said. “With that turnover margin, the fact that we were in the football game, I think, is just a testament to our kids’ character and the coaches being able to stick to their game plan and keep grinding and trying to find a way to be in it in the end. And we were.”
SEASON-HIGH FOR CONNER
Conner rushed for a seasonhigh 144 yards on 17 carries and Harris added 56 yards as Matanzas gained 201 yards on the ground. But a Conner run at the end of the first quarter that appeared to Pirate partisans to be a touchdown, but was ruled a fumble, turned out to be the difference in the game. Conner ran up the middle from the 4-yard line. At the end of the play, Matanzas coaches and players yelled that Conner had broken the plane of the goal line before the ball was loose. Menendez coaches claimed he lost the ball before reaching the goal line. After a conference on the field, the officials ruled that Conner fumbled into the end zone. “Everybody’s out there trying to do their best,” Forrest said. “Obviously, the call on the field was a fumble. Even if it wasn’t (a fumble), there’s nothing you can do to change it. The officials are out there trying to do the best they can. It’s unfortunate, but we got to find a way to overcome it. We haven’t had much go our way this season, and it seems like we just can’t catch a break.” The Falcons ran the ball effectively all game starting with Josiah Thomas’ 55-yard touchdown run on the game’s first play from scrimmage. After the Pirates fumbled a Falcons punt, Menendez took over at the Pirates’ 20 and scored five plays later on Thomas’ 3-yard run. The Falcons threatened to score again early in the second quarter, but Antoine Jenkins
intercepted a Hedrick pass in the end zone. Despite two more Matanzas turnovers, the visitors’ lead was just 14-0 at the half. The Falcons held the ball for most of the second half, limiting the Pirates to just three possessions before the final play. They scored on two of them. “When you’re playing a team that is effective running the football, your possessions are cut short,” Forrest said. “You’re not going to get as many as you might, say, if you were playing a spread team.” For the game, Menendez’s time of possession was 28 minutes, 25 seconds compared to 19:35 for Matanzas. FIRST-TIME STARTERS
McDonough, who joined the Pirates in the summer, was making his first start. He completed 6 of 8 passes for 47 yards with an interception on a tipped ball. “I thought [he] managed the game really well,” Forrest said. “He did a good job getting us in the right sets and moving some guys around.” Freshman Devin Davis, who had been the starting quarterback, sat out with a knee injury. “He’s day to day,” Forrest said. “He practiced last week as a limited participant. So, nothing serious. We’re more concerned with his longterm development, than we are with putting him back out there. It’s going to be a slow process.” Zach Snider was making his first start on the offensive line, while lineman Zain Dailey was making his second start on
Menendez’s JP Denight (11) lunges to tackle DJ Harris.
Matanzas quarterback Michael McDonough throws a pass.
offense, moving over from the defensive line. Brennon Friendly led the Pirates with 14 tackles. Senior linebacker Jack Fer-
guson had 1.5 sacks. “I thought the defense held up pretty good,” Ferguson said. “We got the ball a couple times with not the best field position. We gave up a couple of big plays, and we added some penalties after the play. That’s what killed us on defense.” Matanzas will host Pine Ridge (0-4) for Homecoming on Sept. 25. Both teams will be looking for their first win of the season. “We’ve had such a tough schedule, the first three games,” Forrest said. “And we were trying to find things that worked. Really, that’s just game experience for these guys. I do not feel like we had an offensive problem at all tonight. We just had an attention to detail problem. It was just minor details that we can fix.”
THIS WEEK
Sept. 25 PINE RIDGE (0-4) at MATANZAS (0-4) It's the Pirates' homecoming game with both teams vying for their first win. Like Matanzas, Pine Ridge has played a tough early-season schedule. The combined record of the Panthers' opponents is 14-3, while the combined record of the Pirates' opponents is 15-3. Watch the Observer's livestream of the game at youtube.com/@ PalmCoastObserver. Rich Carroll and Abe Mills call the game.
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
9B
Flagler Palm Coast’s ‘He-Man’: a selfless leader on and off the field For the first time, Ehimen Ajede is the Bulldogs‘ primary ball carrier, and he’s making the most of it.
“You just have to stay grounded. If you continue working hard,
BRENT WORONOFF
pushing yourself, the
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Ehimen Ajede has been known as He-Man since he was 12 years old. The nickname has nothing to do with feats of strength. But the Flagler Palm Coast running back has been doing a lot of heavy lifting for the Bulldogs this season. Ajede’s name is Nigerian. It is pronounced, “eh-HE-may eh-JEH-day,” he said. “He-Man” was given to him when he played for the Flagler Titans youth football organization. His said his coach, Bob Starr, gave him the moniker. “He didn’t know how to pronounce it,” Ajede said. “He was like, ‘We do not know how to say his first name. We have to come up with something.’ And that’s where ‘He-Man’ came from.” Ajede has been known as He-Man ever since. He sometimes uses the nickname when referring to himself in conversation as in, “He-Man was actually supposed to play for Matanzas,” or “I want to [be an] anesthesiologist. But He-man could possibly be a firefighter.” Whatever he makes up his mind to do, says his head football coach, Patrick Turner, he’ll be successful doing it. “I think he’ll get a chance to play college football, but if he decides to do something else he’ll be good at that,” Turner said. This season, the senior has been the Bulldogs’ offensive motor on a team that has produced a 4-0 record heading
opportunity is going to present itself. You just got to take it.” EHIMEN ‘HE-MAN’ AJEDE
Ehimen “He-Man” Ajede celebrates FPC’s fourth win in a row over Matanzas in the Potato Bowl on Aug. 28. Photo by Brent Woronoff
into a Thursday, Sept. 24 game at Tocoi Creek (0-5), a district opponent. Ajede’s numbers have been eye-popping: 613 yards rushing, 9.0 yards per carry and nine touchdowns in four games. “He understands he needs to carry the team,” Turner said. “He realizes everybody behind him, running backwise, is young or also plays another position. He’s doing a tremendous job. He’s doing what I knew he’s capable of, and I don’t think he’s done yet. He might get 1,500 to 2,000 yards and 20 to 25 touchdowns when it’s all said and done.” FIRE, FOOTBALL AND EMT CLASS
Another impressive number is Ajede’s GPA: 3.78. He’s accomplished that with a daily schedule that would overwhelm most people not named He-Man. He begins his day early in the morning. Up until Sept.
11, the Bulldogs held earlymorning practice before school. Now his day begins with Fire Leadership Academy during first and second periods, followed by English, statistics and history. After the regular school day he has football practice. Then from 6-9 p.m. he attends EMT class at Flagler Technical College on the FPC campus. When he gets his EMT certification and passes his firefighter exams this summer he’ll be qualified to be a fulltime EMT/firefighter. That’s his backup plan. He’s looking to major in pre-med in college, go to medical school and eventually become an anesthesiologist. But as he says, He-Man could possibly be a firefighter. “My mom was like, ‘You could be the first doctor in the family.’ And for me, I’d get to be the first firefighter in my family,” Ajede said. “So those are the two branches of the path I’m walking down, and
Want your business to go viral? Let Abe and Rachel tell your story on video.
I’ll see where God takes me.” Either way, he wants to serve others. It’s in his DNA. He dad, who is from Nigeria, and his mom, who is from Bunnell, met at Calvary Palm Coast church, where they are all still members. “He’s a very spiritual guy,” FPC running backs coach Charlie Washington said of Ajede. “He’s one of those persons that’s definitely selfless.” Ajede has embraced his leadership role on the football team, his coaches say. “He’s just an unbelievable human being, such a nice and genuine person,” Turner said. “He’s always encouraging, always positive, and those attributes carry onto the football field. He has an unbelievable work ethic.” Ajede loves the fire academy. But he joined it just so he could enroll at FPC. The year he was entering high school, his R-section neighborhood in Palm Coast was re-zoned for Matanzas High. “My mom was like, ‘you may have to go to Matanzas,’ and I was like, ‘oh goodness,’ because everyone’s expecting me to come here. They know
me,” Ajede said. “And so, the fire academy people came to [Buddy Taylor Middle School] and they said you can still go to FPC if you enroll in a program. And I’m like, what’s a program? And so, I check it out. And at first, I was a little skeptical. But I really like it. Lt. (Thomas) Cope is a great teacher, and I like the family, the camaraderie. They want to see me succeed. I want to see them succeed. We’re a group of people trying to help others.” THOUGHTS OF QUITTING FOOTBALL
As a freshman in 2023, Ajede seemed to be running back Marcus Mitchell’s heir apparent. Ajede rushed for 356 yards and a touchdown as Mitchell’s backup. A year later, as Mitchell closed out his high school career as the Bulldogs’ alltime leading rusher, Ajede was sidelined. He suffered a severe left ankle sprain in the spring of 2024. He returned for the third game of the season on Sept. 13 and severely sprained his right ankle on a 60-yard run. His sophomore season ended with two carries for 65 yards. “I didn’t think I really wanted to play football after that,” he said. “It was a tough recovery. I had to learn how to run like I used to. It was a tough process, but I thank God for these coaches and the guys believing in me.” Sharing the running back spot with Darwin “DJ” Harris last season, Ajede ran for 430 yards and seven touchdowns. Harris transferred to Matanzas, and now, as a senior, Ajede is the workhorse in the backfield. “Now that he’s the primary running back, he’s able to showcase his ability a lot more,” Washington said.
“His running style is very explosive. It may take him one or two carries to get in the groove. He can go from a 2-yard gain to a 15-yard gain to a 30- to 40-yard, touchdown run. Once he gets into determination mode, you’re going to need multiple people to bring him down.” Florida Atlantic University and Florida A&M have shown interest. “Those are my two big shots, my two headers,” Ajede said. Ajede said he’s improved in so many areas, such as being patient in hitting the hole, learning how to take a tackle and being a vocal leader on the field. “When DJ left [Ajede] knew he would have to step up and carry the team, and he’s done that,” Turner said. “You just have to stay grounded,” Ajede said. “If you continue working hard, pushing yourself, the opportunity is going to present itself. You just got to take it, and that’s what we’re going to do this year as Bulldogs.”
FPC’s Ehimen Ajede ran for 131 yards with a 34-yard touchdown on Sept. 11 against Jacksonville First Coast. Photo by Keishia McLendon
Freeze!
Email advertise@ observerlocalnews.com.
We make marketing easy.
Keishia McLendon 386-225-5808 dx3photography.net 226a St Joe Plaza #142 Palm Coast
Let us capture your athlete in action.
10B
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
FPC defeats Matanzas by 1 stroke in boys golf Joseph Lombardo hits the winning putt for Bulldogs. Pirates’ Kam Bonner is low medalist with a par-36. BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Flagler Palm Coast sophomore Joseph Lombardo had just drained a 20-foot birdie putt on No. 9 at Palm Harbor Golf Club to pull the Bulldogs to within one stroke of Matanzas on Sept. 17 in the county rivals’ boys golf match.
Lombardo was a member of the final group, and they had one more hole to play. As they were walking to the par4 No. 1, Lombardo admitted to coach Patrick Kleinfelder that he was a little nervous. “I said, ‘That’s good. You should be nervous. The pros get nervous.’” Kleinfelder said. Lombardo went on to sink a 3-foot putt for bogey to give FPC a two-stroke advantage on the final hole and lift the Bulldogs a 176-177 victory over the Pirates. Lombardo finished with a team-best 41 to tie his lowest round of the season.
Seabreeze expects another tough battle with the 4-0 Barracudas. BRENT WORONOFF ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Matanzas’ Kamden Bonner tees off at No. 9 in a match against Matanzas on Sept. 17 at Palm Harbor Golf Club.
FPC’s Zach Peterson tees off at No. 9 in a match against Matanzas on Sept. 17 at Palm Harbor Golf Club. Photo by Brent Woronoff
’Crabs head to NSB with memories of 2OT loss
Kam Bonner of Matanzas was the low medalist with a par-36. The Pirates’ other scores were Gianni Cerbone, 45; Truman Gieger, 48; and Aiden Massaro, 48. Rounding out the Bulldogs’ scores were Landon McNitt, 44; Zachary Peterson, 45; and Josiah Moreira 46. FPC improved to 5-1 with its third win in three days. The Bulldogs also defeated Seabreeze 162-167 on Sept. 15 at Riviera Country Club, and then Atlantic 176-182 on Sept. 16 while battling heavy winds at Cypress Head Golf Club. Landon McNitt led the Bulldogs against Seabreeze with
a 37, while Lombardo shot a 41 and Peterson and Moreira shot a 42. McNitt shot a 41 at Cypress Head, while Moreira shot a 44 and Jayson Castle shot a 45. FPC GIRLS WIN TRI-MATCH
The FPC girls golf team won a tri-match at Grand Reserve Golf Club on Sept. 17. Flagler Palm Coast finished with a score of 195 to defeat Menendez (240) and Father Lopez (243). Ivey Tsouklaris led the Buldogs with a 41. Sydney Adams and Lilah Cool each shot a 48 and Taci Cook shot a 58.
A year later, Seabreeze is still talking about last season’s double-overtime loss to New Smyrna Beach. Barracudas running back Todd Cutler scored a touchdown with less than three minutes reamining to send the game to overtime. Both teams scored a touchdown in the first overtime period and again in the second overtime period, but NSB blocked the Sandcrabs’ extra-point kick to leave Daytona Stadium with a 28-27 victory. “We played a really good game, but we didn’t finish,” Seabreeze coach Mike Klein said. “Looking back, you question, should we have gone for two? I know we had a good field-goal kicker. But they end up blocking it up the middle and that was all she wrote.” The Sandcrabs will meet the ’Cudas again on Friday, Sept. 25, at NSB. This is a chance, Klein said, for the ’Crabs to put the shouldas, couldas and wouldas behind them. “If we win that game last year we probably have a good chance to make the playoffs,” Klein said, noting that this game will probably also play a role in the playoff picture. New Smyrna Beach is 4-0 overall and 1-0 in District 6-4A, while Seabreeze is 2-2 and 0-1 with two district games remaining. “It’s only the fifth week of the season, but I’m treating
this like a playoff game,” Klein said. “We want to take care of business.” Cutler, a junior is having an outstanding season with 801 yards rushing and nine touchdowns. Containing him will be key, Klein said. “He’s a strong kid, a hard guy to tackle,” Klein said. “He’s one of the motors that make that team go. He spins off a lot of tackles. We’ll have to fly to the ball, because one guy doesn’t tackle this kid very often.” New Smyrna Beach is wellcoached under John Wilkinson, Klein said. The ’Cudas like to show a lot of different looks and formations — double tight-end sets, four receivers, three receivers, unbalanced sets. “They try to find weaknesses in your scheme,” Klein said. Seabreeze had a bye week last week, so the Sandcrabs have had two weeks to prepare. “We have a good game plan,” Klein said. “I think the kids are understanding what we’re trying to do. We have to be consistent on every rep, because it’s going to be a battle. They don’t beat themselves. We have to bring physicality to the table, because they always do. This will be a true test for us. To me, it feels like playoff football.”
“It’s only the fifth week of the season, but I’m treating this like a playoff game. We want to take care of business.” MIKE KLEIN, Seabreeze football coach
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
11B
SIDELINES Fast times for FPC’s Seth, Grigoruk
Flagler Palm Coast sophomore Douglas Seth ran a personal-record 15 minutes, 20.7 seconds to place 13th in the boys championship division at the Southern Showcase cross country meet on Sept. 19 in Huntsville, Alabama. Seth’s time is the third fastest in school history behind Justin Harbor and Sam Vazquez. The FPC girls won the blue division at the Southern Showcase with senior Anna Grigoruk winning the individual title with her season-best time of 19:39.84. Avery Wisniewski placed 13th in 20:54.67, Audrey Bowman placed 16th in 21:02.63 and Everly Mucciolo placed 36th in 21:46.97. Among the boys, in addition to Seth, three other FPC runners ran sub-17-minute times: Dylan Ciardi (62nd, 16:18.9), Enzo McGovern (110th, 16:44.5) and Mateo Almeida (121st, 16:49.4). Owen Stackpole was 161st in 17:25.20.
FPC senior Anna Grigoruk, at the Spikes and Spurs Classic in August, won the girls blue race at the Southern Showcase in Huntsville Alabama on Sept. 19. File photo by Brent Woronoff
At the Coach Joe McKinney Classic, Seabreeze’s Joseph Davis placed 13th in 17:41.5, Alexander Benitez was 39th in 18:40.6 and Jaden Torres was 43rd in 18:45.8. Karly Rybicki had the best finish for the Seabreeze girls with a time of 22:59.4 for 34th place. Harper Smith was 39th in 23:16.9. At the Mount Dora Christian Academy Bulldog Invitational, the Father Lopez boys placed third with Liam Harman (15th, 20:35.7) and Kylar Deaton (17th, 20:51.6) leading the way. Matanzas’ Liam Yanasheski was the first Pirates runner to finish with a time of 21:50.4 in 23rd place. Among the girls, Father Lopez’s Lucy Fulton placed third in 23:00.4 and Savannah Cox was ninth in 24:37.4. Matanzas’ Noemi Malinowski placed 13th in 25:38.8 and Lupita Galeano was 15th in 25:41.9.
Pirates’ Demers breaks record Matanzas sophomore swimmer Alex Demers broke a 14-year-old school record in the boys 500-yard freestyle at the Frank Holleman Invitational on Sept. 19 at Planet Swim Aquatics in Ponte Vedra Beach. Demers finished in 5:11.47 to break Thomas Tarantola’s
Grace Taylor (23) leads the Bulldogs in kills and assists. File photo by Brent Woronoff
previous mark of 5:12.16, Pirates swim coach Carrie Purdy said.
FPC swimmers sweep Atlantic FPC’s boys and girls swimmers swept Atlantic at home on Sept. 17 at the Belle Terre pool. At the Record Breaker Invitational on Sept. 12 in Port Orange, the members of FPC’s first-place 200-yard medley relay team were Alexander Rudik, Sammy Cimbala, Noah Roznos and Kyle Pawluski with a time of 1:43.90.
Matanzas sophomore Alexander Demers broke the school record in the 500-yard freestyle. File photo
Streaking Local Collegians Former Mainland and FPC Bulldogs host quarterback Dennis Murray volleyball rematch Jr. scored three touchdowns with Pirates in Georgia State’s first two FPC’s volleyball team has won nine matches in a row heading into the Sept. 22 match at Deltona. The Bulldogs (12-1) will host rival Matanzas on Thursday, Sept. 24, at 7 p.m. The Pirates (8-3) are the only team to beat FPC this season, winning in five sets on Aug. 25 at the Matanzas gym. The Bulldogs have lost just five sets in13 matches this season. Grace Taylor leads FPC in both kills with 168 and assists with 183. Sanigh Arneaud leads the Pirates in kills with 146 and digs with 116.
games this season, but missed the Panthers’ game at UCF on Sept. 19 with an injury. The junior running back scored his third touchdown of the season on a 12-yard run in a 31-17 win at Kennesaw State on Sept. 12. In two games, Murray has rushed for 76 yards and has three receptions for 63 yards. Former FPC golfer Carmella Carlisi, a sophomore at Cal State San Marcos, tied for third at the RJGA Shootout at Estrella on Sept. 14-15 in Goodyear, Arizona. Carlisi shot 68-74 for a 2-under-par
142 to lead the Cougars to the team title. Former Matanzas basketball player Henry Robinson Jr., who is now a senior at Pine Ridge High School, has committed to play basketball next year at Jacksonville University, according to his father, Pine Ridge coach Henry Robinson Sr., who posted the news on social media. The 6-foot-8 Robinson averaged 27.6 points and 8.3 rebounds for the Panthers last season. Send sports news and Local Collegians info to brent@ observerlocalnews.com
12B
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
Coastal living by your coastal pros! SOLD
SOLD
35 Calle del Sur
SOLD
Le Jardin #104
PENDING
37 Calle del Sur
32 San Gabriel Lane
Timeless Mediterranean architecture and stunning ocean views 4 Br, 6.5 Ba 6,006 sq. ft. SOLD $3,500,000
Exceptional lanai residence with penthouse-sized living areas. 4 Br, 4.5 Ba 4,935 sq. ft. SOLD $3,100,000
100 feet of direct oceanfront and spectacular views of Lake San Gabriel. 0.32 acres SOLD $1,200,000
Lakefront home blends timeless architecture with refined craftsmanship. 4 Br, 4 Ba 3,648 sq. ft. LIST PRICE $1,297,500
PENDING
PENDING
LISTED
LISTED
28 N. Waterview Dr. GRAND HAVEN Open-concept floor plan maximizes breathtaking ICW views. 3 Br, 3.5 Ba 3,050 sq. ft. LIST PRICE $1,549,000
Casa Bella #1903
Carriage Home with the ease of condo living and large lanai. 3 Br, 2.5 Ba 2,480 sq. ft. LIST PRICE $589,000
2OO Ocean Crest Dr. #812 Renovated 8th-floor condo with stunning ocean/golf views. 4 Br, 4.5 Ba 3,264 sq. ft. LIST PRICE $1,869,000
259 Yacht Harbor Drive
Waterfront home offers refined coastal living with quick access to ICW. 3 Br, 3.5 Ba 2,704 sq. ft. LIST PRICE $949,000
LISTED
LISTED
LISTED
LISTED
4368 N. Ocean Shore Blvd. Privacy, space, and waterfront living on over 1 acre along the ICW. 2 Br, 2 Ba 1,170 sq. ft. LIST PRICE $1,399,999
7 Chinook Court PALM HARBOR
Canal-front residence, completely renovated and move-in ready. 5 Br, 3 Ba 3,202 sq. ft. LIST PRICE $1,055,000
41 Old Oak Dr. S. THE SANCTUARY Two-story, modern farmhouse living with enclosed pool area. 5 Br, 3.5 Ba 3,290 sq. ft. LIST PRICE $899,000
2-story pool home offers a bright modern interior with designer finishes. 5 Br, 3 Ba, 3,352 sq. ft. LIST PRICE $665,000
LISTED
LISTED
LISTED
LISTED
7 Oasis Circle GRAND HAVEN
35 Hidden Treasure Drive
6 Cinnamon Beach Way
29 Sandpiper Lane
Exceptional home with modern finishes, open living and refined details 3 Br, 2 Ba 2,018 sq. ft. LIST PRICE $489,000
Light-filled Beach Haven home features an open-concept plan. 3 Br, 3 Ba 2,229 sq. ft. LIST PRICE $665,000
Homesite on a quiet cul-de-sac with a beautifully landscaped roundabout. 0.24 acres LIST PRICE $425,000
13 Ellsworth Drive CYPRESS KNOLL
Prime lakefront homesite just moments from a convenient beach walkover. 0.24 acres LIST PRICE $320,000
SALES GALLERY NOW OPEN
LUXURY OCEANFRONT CONDOMINIUM RESIDENCES MEYER DAVIS DESIGN LEGENDARY RITZ-CARLTON SERVICE $3.1M-$10M+ Limited Time Special Incentives Available Contact Us for an Exclusive Discovery Presentation
ARTIST’S CONCEPTUAL RENDERING
TRUST THE POWER OF EXPERIENCE Krista Libby Sales Associate Judy Barnes Broker Associate Rich Hottinger, Sr.
CIPS, TRC, AHD, SRES, CRS, CLHMS, RSPS
Sales Associate
CLHMS, SRES, RSPS
386.627.3000 • 386.931.2007 Judy@CoastalProsFL.com
386.503.0509
612.298.4040
Rich@HammockDunesFL.com
Krista@HammockDunesFL.com
SALES CENTER 2 Camino Del Mar Palm Coast, FL 32137 CoastalProsFL.com
CP COASTAL PROS P OW E R O F E X P E R I E N C E
The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Prices, plans and specifications subject to change without notice or obligation. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. These materials are not intended to be an offer to sell, or solicitation to buy a unit in the new development condominium. Such an offering shall only be made pursuant to the prospectus (offering circular) for the condominium and no statements should be relied upon unless made in the prospectus or in the applicable purchase agreement. In no event shall any solicitation, offer or sale of a unit in the condominium be made in, or to residents of, any state or country in which such activity would be unlawful.
Making it easy to buy local
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
2C
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Don't Gamble With Your Family's Peace of Mind Get Your Chips in a Row. Because peace of mind is never a gamble.
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
CLASSIFIEDS Items under $200
PLANT LADY HAS ASSORTED PLANTS FOR SALE!!! Elephant Ears, Snake Plants, Plus Many Other Types of Plants. Call for Appointment. Starting at $1 (PC) 814-574-6387 Queen-size bed Adjustable (head &/or foot) frame with remote. $150.00 (860) 568-8874 Bakeware Dish $10, Canister Set $10, Chrystal Bowl $10, 3 Bowls $5 ea. White Rattan Table with Square Glass Top $40. Can send Pics 386-444-1851 Ball casters Shepherd (new qty 46) $100.00; Baldwin Premium hall & closet levers brass (new 2 boxes of 2/box) $100. (386)283-7172 NEW 42” Wooden Round Table With 4 Chairs $200.00 obo 386-437-7058 Kobalt Electric Lawn Mower $100. Original Receipt and Warranty. Cover Pro 10x10 Canopy $50. Prince of Peace Area 386-236-9148 New Wrought Iron Rectangular Coffee Table $175 386-4377058
Pre-planning is for Everyone Pre-planning allows you to make your wishes known, protect your family from difficult decisions, and provide peace of mind when it matters most.
Perfect for:
Why Pre-Plan?
✔ Young Couples ✔ Lock in today's prices ✔ Single Adults ✔ Ease family decisions ✔ Widows & Widowers ✔ Document your wishes ✔ Baby Boomers ✔ Leave a personal message ✔ Seniors ✔ Plans move with you ✔ Those with Health Concerns ✔ Give lasting peace of mind
Supporting Families Beyond Funeral Services
MUST SELL Computer Printer Cart Still In Box $30 obo. 386346-5117 /C-239-671-2580
King sized mattress, springs, and frame. Made by Winter Park Mattress Factory. Good condition. Price: $150 407718-5279” E-Trike W rear storage- tall person. Long frame motorcycle style. Charger $175.00 (727) 637-2062 Patio Furnishings 30” Glass Umbrella Table Plus 4 Folding Chairs. $200.00 (386) 5855247 Chicago Electric 10” sliding Compound Miter Saw $85 (386) 439 1755
Cleaning Services
Ana’s Personal housekeeping. One Time, Weekly, Or Monthly Service (PC) anaspersonal-housekeeping@gmail.com 386-868-9662 Marissa’s House Cleaning (Flagler County Only) 20 Years Experience, License and Insured. 386-292-6988
For Rent
1BR/1BA Bunnell/ Korona 32’ Motorhome for Rent on Private Property Includes = Electric, water, sewage and lawn maintenance. Sleeps 4/2 slide outs. $750.00 (386) 569-9211 Room For Rent $600. 1st Month Deposit $650, Utilities included 619-646-7547
TRIBUTES
For Sale
For Sale 2 Daisy Air Rifles with Supplies & Backstop, 2 New Copier/Scanner/Fax, Kitchen Items, CD’s Different Genres, Kurrig + Supplies, Collectable Die Cast Cars and Airplanes-still in boxes, WWII Nose Art Mugs. 386-586-5418 By Appt. Leave Message FOR SALE BY OWNER Palm Coast 2 Story Home. All New, Completely Renovated, Low Taxes, 1,848sqft Living Area. 4B/3B/3CG. 2nd Floor Lg Balcony. Call 386-437-7058 For More Info
Home Services Construction Cleanup Derrick The Clean Up Man. Haul Trash, Clean Flower Beds, Honey Do’s, Pressure Wash, Construction Cleans. No Job Is TOO BIG or TOO SMALL. Licensed. Insured 386-503-5536
Pet Services
Boarding w/Auntie Joyce! Home Away From Home. Playtime, Loving Care & Holiday Availability. (PC) 904-325-6766
Yard Sale
34 Essington Ln (PC) Fri-Sun 9/25-9/27 9:00AM-2:00PM Something for all! Table Displays, Glass Vases, Birdcages, Golf Bags&Clubs, Stoneware, Kitchen Cookware, Glassware, Woodcarving, & More. 6 Walker Dr (PC)10/2-10/3 9:00AM-2:00PM Books, Puzzles, House wear, A little of everything.
Susan Klein
April 13, 1939 - September 14, 2026 Susan Myerson Klein, 87, an artist, mother, grandmother, and lover of her many dogs, died of complications from dementia in Jacksonville Florida on September 14, 2026. Susan was born on April 13, 1939, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to David and Florence Myerson, joining her late older brother Mike. She lived much of her life at the Jersey Shore, moving to Florida after retirement. Susan graduated from Atlantic City High School and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the Philadelphia
Museum College of Art in 1961. She illustrated a weekly column for The Atlantic City Press. Later, she was the Master Coin Bank Manager at Ballys Casino until her retirement in 1984. She doted on her many dogs, dressing them up for holidays and walking them around the neighborhoods. She was an active member of the Flagler and Volusia county communities for over 25 years before moving to Jacksonville. Survivors include her ex-husband Fred Klein, 3 sons, 3 daughters-in-law, 4 grandsons, and a granddaugh-
ter. Please go to this website to see photos of Susan with her loved ones: https://adobe.ly/4Ar4ogM
William C. Cullen
February 24, 1936 - September 18, 2026
Where Memories Bloom. A serene, nature-inspired memorial garden offering a meaningful alternative to a traditional cemetery and a lasting place to celebrate life and preserve cherished memories. www.botanicalmemorygardens.com
William C. Cullen, of Palm Coast, left this world on September 18, 2026. He was born in Pelham, NY on February 24, 1936. He was a loving husband and had four lovely daughters, nine adorable grandchildren and three amazing great grandchildren. He enlisted in the army after high school
and married his high school sweetheart in 1955. He was in administrative and managerial positions for his career. In his spare time he worked with many charities and was known as a generous and kind man. He will be deeply missed.
Arvid Olson
January 13, 1944 - July 14, 2026
Healing Through Art. Coping With Colors provides a safe and welcoming space where people can laugh, cry, paint, and connect with others while navigating grief, loss, and life's challenges. www.copingwithcolors.org
NINA GUIGLOTTO NINA GUIGLOTTO Owner Owner
386-225-4486 386-225-4486
nina@lotusfuneral.com nina@lotusfuneral.com 460 Palm Coast Parkway SW Suite 3 Palm Coast, FL
www.lotusfuneralservices.com
Arvid passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026 in Palm Coast with his wife, Pat, by his side. Arvid was born in Pasadena, CA and was the son of the late Chester Olson and Mabel Park Olson. His two siblings, Allene Olson and Gilbert Olson, predeceased him. Arvid graduated from San Ramon High School in Danville, CA in 1961 and attended California State College in Hayward, CA and from there attended the University of Pacific Dental School in San Francisco where he graduated in 1969. Arvid practiced General Dentistry in El Cerrito, CA and during this time met and married Pat Wakeman. They spent 51 wonderful years together. Arvid loved his country and traveling which led him to rejoin the Army in 1980 where he and Pat were stationed in Mainz, Germany for three years. Their favorite country was France. Many of Arvid’s friends thought he had a second home there! Upon returning stateside
they spent three years in Carmel, CA while stationed at Ft. Ord. They loved this assignment and had many close friends visit. From there Arvid attended the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta and became a board certified Endodontist. Arvid and Pat moved to Palm Coast in 1995 and Arvid became very active as a member of Trinity Presbyterian Church and was a deacon for three years. Arvid was also a member of the Palm Coast Cruisers, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the Elks Club and Kiwanis Club where he was President from 2022 to 2023. Arvid loved a challenge and in 1999 opened up a Travel Agency in Palm Coast. Arvid and Pat escorted many groups for a number of years visiting the Caribbean and Europe. His love of photography inspired him to produce very professional DVD’s which included a number of specially selected music related to the island or country visited. These memento DVD’s were given out to all members of Arvid’s
personally guided group. Together Arvid and Pat went on over 160 cruises. For those who knew Arvid he was known for his unwavering faith, strength, kindness and a deep love for God and family. Arvid will be remembered as a kind and gentle soul who was always willing to contribute both his time and support. A celebration of life ceremony will be held at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Palm Coast on Saturday October 3, 2026 at 11 am. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to VITAS Health Care in Daytona Beach, FL.
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Gutter Cleaning
Cleaning TIRED OF COMING HOME TO A MESSY HOUSE? NEED YOUR ROOMS/CLOSETS ORGANIZED?
AND HOME REPAIR
Licensed/Insured
Fran Mosher
Owner/Operator belleterrepainting@gmail.com Residental/Commercial
as low as $59
CLEANING SERVICES SINCE 2003
Small to Large - ANY Detailed Job is Available!
386-631-3907
Now Offering Room & Area Rug Carpet Cleaning!
“Leaf Guard at the fraction of the cost of Leaf Filter”
Residential/Commercial Licensed
Call: 386-569-6151
412518
References available
Interior/Exterior
Belle Terre Painting, LLC
Summer Special
I WILL MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER SO YOU CAN ENJOY YOUR DAY!
Free Estimates All Supplies Furnished 10% OFF 1st Cleaning
Painting
Mark’s Gutter Cleaning
ELIZABETH JONES
3C
386-344-9113
Veteran Owned Free Estimates
Senior and Veteran discounts Handyman · Demo · Drywall · Flooring · Remodels Free driveway pressure wash with full exterior paint.
Insurance
Concrete
Helping You Select the Medicare Plan That is Right For You!
428617 XNLV20200 369733
Medicare Plan Options HMO • PPO • SUPPLEMENTS PART D • DENTAL
364200
OR OST NO C ATION G OBLI
Deanna Kershner
Independent Licensed Agent
386.931.3414
Deanna.Kershner@yahoo.com
Painting
Landscaping & Lawn
Painting With AA Painting With Woman’s Touch Woman’s Touch 386-569-4393 386-569-4393 Interior / Exterior Painting Power Washing Decks Residential · Commercial Pool · Exterior · Interior Driveways
CustomL. Painting · FauxLicensed Finishes · Epoxy & Insured - #17687Floors Cherie Estell
Construction l loca ts Your g exper ! in roof ce 1995 n si Metal • Shingle • Tile • Slate • Flat - Roof Replacements & Repairs
John Gilvary 904.669.2337 John@paintingfins.com
- New Roof Construction - Competitive Pricing & Free Estimates - Financing & Extended Warranties Visit jandjgutters.net to learn more!
Licensed and insured
Certified, Licensed, Insured CGC1517313 / CCC1329068
Plumbing
Construction Cleanup Medical
Power Washing
Rick's Power Washing
Dentist
Houses · Driveways · Pool Enclosures Siding · Concrete Licensed/Insured & Reliable
428611
386-585-5160
428615 364198
XNLV20197
Call Rick
Let’s talk business
Advertise today in the Observer's new Marketplace Plus section. We have something that can fit every budget, to connect businesses with their future customers.
386-447-9723 Advertising@observerlocalnews.com
4C
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Palm Coast | The Hammock | Ormond Beach | Daytona Beach
WHEN MOM NEEDS HELP, WE WON’T LET YOU DOWN.
It’s one of the hardest decisions you’ll ever make: Who is going to take care of Mom or Dad as they get older? And, how can we help them live at home as long as possible? When families are considering in-home care for a loved one, there are several things to consider. For example: Are the caregivers employees of the company or are they contract employees? Are they covered by the company’s liability and workers comp insurance? Bernie Fitzgerald Are they background checked and Owner fingerprinted? My company, Senior Helpers is an agency that meets all standards of employment. We don’t send independent contractors into your home. We send employees for whom we take full responsibility. Think about it: Mom needs safety and quality care. That’s Senior Helpers. To learn more call my cell phone. Senior Helpers to serve your And if you’re veteran, stands let’s talk. ready I’m a U.S. Army veteran myself, and I live family’s needs with personalized, in-home care and Senior Helpers stands ready to serve your your Senior Helpers stands ready to serve Seniorhere Helpers stands readyprofessional to serve your in our community. expertly-trained caregivers. family’s needs with personalized, in-home care family’s needs with personalized, in-home care and — Bernie, 321-662-4077 amily’s needs with personalized, in-home care and and
SENIOR CARE SENIOR CARE SENIOR CARE SENIOR CARE ONLY BETTER ONLY BETTER ONLY BETTER ONLY BETTER SENIOR CARE ONLY BETTER
Let expertly-trained us Senior ease your mind with atocomplimentary expertly-trained professional caregivers. professional caregivers. expertly-trained professional caregivers. Helpers stands ready serve your SENIOR CARE in-home care assessment. family’s needs with with personalized, in-home care and usLet ease your mind awith complimentary ONLY BETTER Let Let us ease your mind with a professional complimentary us ease your mind a caregivers. complimentary Veteran Owned expertly-trained in-home care assessment. in-home care assessment. Helpers stands ready to serve your in-home careSenior assessment.
Let us ease your mind complimentary family’swith needs a with personalized, in-home care and professional caregivers. in-home careexpertly-trained assessment. Let us ease your mind with a complimentary in-home care assessment.
NOW HIRING CNAs & HHAs NOW HIRINGs CNA & HHA NOW HIRING CNA sCNA & HHA NOW HIRING CNA s & HHA 352.323.6232 NOW HIRING sss && HHA s NOW HIRING CNA HHA s s
352.323.6232
s
352.323.6232 352.323.6232 352.323.6232 seniorhelpers.com/fl/palm-coast seniorhelpers.com/fl/palm-coast seniorhelpers.com/fl/palm-coast 352.323.6232
seniorhelpers.com/fl/palm-coast seniorhelpers.com/fl/palm-coast seniorhelpers.com/fl/palm-coast
HHA # 299994577 All rights reserved. Senior Helpers locations are independently owned and operated. ©2023 SH Franchising, LLC.
HHA # 299994577 All rights reserved. Senior Helpers locations are independently owned and operated. ©2023 SH Franchising, LLC.
seniorhelpers.com/fl/palm-coast HHA # 299994577 All rights reserved. Senior Helpers locations are independently owned and operated.
©2023 Franchising, LLC. A # 299994577 All rights Senior Helpers locations areSH independently owned and operated. HHA # 299994577 Allreserved. rights reserved. Senior Helpers locations are independently owned and operated. HHA # 299994577 All rights reserved. Senior ©2023 SH Franchising, LLC.Helpers ©2023 SH Franchising, LLC.locations are independently owned and operated. ©2023 SH Franchising, LLC.
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
5C
Roofing Building Customers For Life!
EZ Roof Roof ing Inc. Of Flagler County
386-328-5359
• New Roofs • Repairs
• Replacements • FREE Estimates
430456
Residential Roofing Specialist • FREE Roof Inspections & Minor Repairs LIC#CCC1331086
Insurance Inspections Available Reliable Prompt Service
Roof Leaking? “Specialist In Hard to Find Leaks”
State Licensed | Insured CCC1328252 | CBC1254280
CBC ROOFING COMPANY
1/2 page in the Palm Coast Observer is now just $300. 1/4 page: $200.
ROOF PROBLEMS? Call us for a FREE Estimate
Ask for two-market rates and Marketplace Plus. We make marketing easy. Email advertise@observerlocalnews.com
• Roof Repair • Roof Replacement • Emergency Service •
429789
386.677.9265
386-347-0366 Whether you need a minor repair or a complete roof replacement, Howard Roofing will guarantee your satisfaction! Licensed and Insured
LIC#CCC1333989
404546
Best prices ever.
Shingle | Tile | Metal | Flat | Re-Roof Structural Repair | Skylights
The Phoenix and the Dove J.J. Graham
Add a local master to your collection. To see this and the rest of the Observer collection, contact Brian McMillan at 386-864-1003.
Find your notices online at: ObserverLocalNews.com, FloridaPublicNotices.com and BusinessObserverFL.com
PUBLIC NOTICES
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
Additional Public Notices may be accessed on ObserverLocalNews.com and the statewide legal notice website, FloridaPublicNotices.com
FLAGLER COUNTY LEGAL NOTICES 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 Timberline Glamping Flagler Beach, located at Gamble Rogers State Park, in the City of Flagler Beach, Flagler County, FL Lisa Booritch, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated 9/15/2026. Nocturne & Solace, LLC 7763-360011 Sep. 24, 2026
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 Etat Collective, located at 2 Office Park Drive Suite E, in the City of Palm Coast, Flagler County, FL Chicks Can Flip, LLC, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated 9/18/2026. Christine Bennett Sullivan 7763-360551 Sep. 24, 2026
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 Wild Little Banner Co, located at 3 Sea Garden Path, in the City of Palm Coast, Flagler County, FL 32164, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated 9/18/2026. Wild Little Banner Co. 7763-360616 Sep. 24, 2026
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 Shop Hold Pay, located at 2435 Otis Stone Hunter Rd, in the City of Bunnell, Flagler County, FL 32110, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated 9/17/2026. Jeepaw & Mimi, LLC 7763-360418 Sep. 24, 2026
Notice Under Fictitious Name LaAccording to Florida Statute Number 865.09 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the Fictitious Name of Frosted Palm Cottage Treats, located at 15 Lamar Lane, in the City of Palm Coast, Flagler County, FL 32137, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated 9/18/2026. Ten Poles Ventures, LLC 7763-360505 Sep. 24, 2026
SUBSCRIBE
TODAY The Observer delivered to your driveway
Call 386.447.9723
6C
Palm Coast
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA LAYANE QUEIROZ DA SILVA FONSECA PETITIONER, AND ABNER RENE LAFONTAINE RESPONDENT, NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: ABNER RENE LAFONTAINE 31 BUFFALO BILL DRIVE PALM COAST, FL. 32137-9468 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on LAYANE QUEIROZ DA SILVA FONSECA whose address is 23 LUTHER DRIVE, PALM COAST, FL. 32137 on or before 10/31/2026 and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 1769 E MOODY BLVD, BLDG 1, BUNNELL, FL. 32110 before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court's office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court's office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.). Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk's office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings. Dated: 09/18/2026 CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT By: Deputy Clerk 7763-360523 Sep. 24, Oct. 1, 8, 15, 2026 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION IN RE: ESTATE OF GERALD L. BOYD DECEASED. FILE NO. 2026 CP 000344 DIVISION 48 NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Gerald L. Boyd, deceased, whose date of death was December 11th, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 E. Moody Blvd, #5, 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. 732.216-732.228, 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 September 24, 2026. Gerald Todd Boyd Personal Representative Address: 2056 Crawford Smithonia Road Colbert, GA 30628 HERMAN & HERMAN LAW, PLLC Attorneys for Personal Representative 2501 E. Commercial Blvd Suite 205 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 Telephone: (954) 762-2555 Florida Bar No. 260622 Email Address: Service@hhlawpllc.com 7763-360242 Sep. 24, Oct. 1, 2026 NOTICE OF FUTURE LAND USE MAP AMENDMENT Pursuant to Section 163.3184, Florida Statutes, the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners hereby gives notice of a proposal to adopt the following Ordinance titled similar to: AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA AMENDING THE FUTURE LAND USE MAP BY AMENDING THE DESIGNATION OF A TOTAL OF 17.6 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, LYING IN SECTION 4, TOWNSHIP 12 SOUTH, RANGE 30 EAST; FROM AGRICULTURE AND TIMBERLANDS TO INDUSTRIAL; PROVIDING FOR FINDINGS; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Project No. 2026070038 / Applicant: Rob Merrell and Alanna Smith dba Cobb Cole/ Owner: 4 C’s Trucking and Excavation, Inc FLAGLER COUNTY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT BOARD Recommendation to Board of County Commissioners on adoption – October 13, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the Flagler County Government Services Building, Board Chambers, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building 2, Bunnell, Florida, 32110. FLAGLER COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS – Adoption Hearing – November 16, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in the Flagler County Government Services Building, Board Chambers, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building 2, Bunnell, Florida, 32110. All interested persons are urged to attend these public hearings and be heard. Anyone wishing to express their opinion may attend, telephone 386313-4009 or write to: Flagler County Planning Department, 1769 E. Moody Blvd, Building 2, Bunnell, FL 32110 or email to planningdept@flaglercounty.gov. Copies of the proposal, supporting data and analysis, staff reports and other
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA
pertinent information are available for review at the Flagler County Planning & Zoning Dept., 1769 East Moody Boulevard, Bldg, 2, Bunnell, Florida 32110. PURSUANT TO SECTION 286.0105 OF FLORIDA STATUTES, IF A PERSON DECIDES TO APPEAL ANY DECISION MADE BY THE BOARD, AGENCY OR COMMISSION WITH RESPECT TO ANY MATTER CONSIDERED AT SUCH MEETING OR HEARING, HE OR SHE WILL NEED A RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS, AND THAT, FOR SUCH PURPOSE, HE OR SHE WILL NEED TO ENSURE THAT A VERBATIM RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS IS MADE, WHICH RECORD INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY AND EVIDENCE UPON WHICH THE APPEAL IS TO BE BASED. IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT, PERSONS NEEDING ASSISTANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN ANY OF THESE MEETINGS SHOULD CONTACT THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT AT (386) 313-4009 AT LEAST 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING. 7763-360699 Sep. 24, 2026 NOTICE OF REZONING Pursuant to Section 2.07.00, Flagler County Land Development Code, and Chapter 125, Florida Statutes, the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners hereby provides notice of consideration of Project No. 2026070039 submitted by Applicant Rob Merrell and Alanna Smith dba Cobb Cole on behalf of property owner, 4 C’s Trucking and Excavation, Inc and possible adoption of an Ordinance titled similar to: AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA AMENDING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF A TOTAL OF 17.6 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, LYING IN SECTION 4, TOWNSHIP 12 SOUTH, RANGE 30 EAST; FROM AC (AGRICULTURE) DISTRICT TO I (INDUSTRIAL) DISTRICT; PROVIDING FOR FINDINGS; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE Public hearings on the above-captioned matter will be held as follows: PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT BOARDRecommendation to Board of County Commissioners on Rezoning – October 13, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the Flagler County Government Services Building, Board Chambers, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building 2, Bunnell, Florida, 32110. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS – Rezoning - November 16, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible in the Flagler County Government Services Building, Board Chambers, 1769 E. Moody Boulevard, Building 2, Bunnell, Florida. All interested persons are urged to attend these public hearings and be heard. Anyone wishing to express their opinion may attend, telephone 386313-4009 or write to: Flagler County Planning Department, 1769 E. Moody Blvd, Building 2, Bunnell, FL 32110 or email to planningdept@flaglercounty.gov. Copies of the proposal, supporting data and analysis, staff reports and other pertinent information are available for review at the Flagler County Planning & Zoning Dept., 1769 East Moody Boulevard, Bldg, 2, Bunnell, Florida 32110. IF A PERSON DECIDES TO APPEAL ANY DECISION MADE BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WITH RESPECT TO ANY MATTER CONSIDERED AT THE MEETING, A RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS MAY BE NEEDED AND, FOR SUCH PURPOSES, THE PERSON MAY NEED TO ENSURE THAT A VERBATIM RECORD IS
MADE, WHICH RECORD INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY AND EVIDENCE UPON WHICH APPEAL IS TO BE BASED. IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT, PERSONS NEEDING ASSISTANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN ANY OF THESE PROCEEDINGS SHOULD CONTACT THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT AT LEAST 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING. 7763-360701 Sep. 24, 2026 NOTICE OF FUTURE LAND USE MAP AMENDMENT Pursuant to Section 163.3184, Florida Statutes, the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners hereby gives notice of a proposal to adopt the following Ordinance titled similar to: AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA AMENDING THE FUTURE LAND USE MAP BY AMENDING THE DESIGNATION OF A TOTAL OF 1.1 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, LYING IN SECTION 25, TOWNSHIP 12 SOUTH, RANGE 38 EAST; FROM AGRICULTURE AND TIMBERLANDS TO RESIDENTIAL LOW DENSITY/ RURAL ESTATE ; PROVIDING FOR FINDINGS; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Project No. 2026070040 / Applicant: Penny Buckles / Owner: Lewmc, Inc Public hearing on the above-captioned matter will be held as follows: FLAGLER COUNTY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT BOARD Recommendation to Board of County Commissioners on adoption – October 13, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the Flagler County Government Services Building, Board Chambers, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building 2, Bunnell, Florida, 32110. FLAGLER COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS – Adoption Hearing – November 16, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in the Flagler County Government Services Building, Board Chambers, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building 2, Bunnell, Florida, 32110. All interested persons are urged to attend these public hearings and be heard. Anyone wishing to express their opinion may attend, telephone 386313-4009 or write to: Flagler County Planning Department, 1769 E. Moody Blvd, Building 2, Bunnell, FL 32110 or email to planningdept@flaglercounty.gov. Copies of the proposal, supporting data and analysis, staff reports and other pertinent information are available for review at the Flagler County Planning & Zoning Dept., 1769 East Moody Boulevard, Bldg, 2, Bunnell, Florida 32110. PURSUANT TO SECTION 286.0105 OF FLORIDA STATUTES, IF A PERSON DECIDES TO APPEAL ANY DECISION MADE BY THE BOARD, AGENCY OR COMMISSION WITH RESPECT TO ANY MATTER CONSIDERED AT SUCH MEETING OR HEARING, HE OR SHE WILL NEED A RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS, AND THAT, FOR SUCH PURPOSE, HE OR SHE WILL NEED TO ENSURE THAT A VERBATIM RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS IS MADE, WHICH RECORD INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY AND EVIDENCE UPON WHICH THE APPEAL IS TO BE BASED. IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT, PERSONS NEEDING ASSISTANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN ANY OF THESE MEETINGS SHOULD CONTACT THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT AT (386) 313-4009 AT LEAST 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING. 7763-360704 Sep. 24, 2026
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA will hold
a Public Hearing as authorized by law at 6:00 P.M. on the 6th day of October 2026, for the purpose of hearing Ordinance 2026-XX (Application No. FLUMA-2026-09), before the Planning, Zoning and Appeals Board, in the Chambers Meeting Room of the Bunnell Administration Complex located at 2400 Commerce Pkwy, Bunnell, Florida 32110. ORDINANCE 2026-XX
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA AMENDING THE CITY OF BUNNELL 2035 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN, AS PREVIOUSLY AMENDED; PROVIDING FOR THE SMALL-SCALE AMENDMENT TO THE FUTURE LAND USE MAP IN THE FUTURE LAND USE ELEMENT OF THE CITY OF BUNNELL 2035 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RELATIVE TO CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY TOTALING 0.92± ACRES IN THE CITY OF BUNNELL LIMITS FROM "INDUSTRIAL (IND)" TO "SINGLE FAMILY-MEDIUM DENSITY (SF-M)"; PROVIDING FOR LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND INTENT; PROVIDING FOR ASSIGNMENT OF THE LAND USE DESIGNATIONS FOR THE PROPERTY; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR RATIFICATION OF PRIOR ACTS OF THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF MAPS BY REFERENCE; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION AND DIRECTIONS TO THE CODE CODIFIER AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE as may be legally permitted on the day of the meeting. Instructions on how to participate by electronic or other means, if legally permitted, would be found on the City of Bunnell's website at www.bunnellcity.us on the homepage. The public is advised to check the City's website for up-to-date information on any changes to the manner in which the meeting will be held and the location. The failure of a person to appear during said hearing and comment on or object to the Ordinance, either in person or in writing, might preclude the ability of such person to contest the Ordinance at a later date. A copy of all pertinent information to this Ordinance can be obtained at the Bunnell Administration Complex, 2400 Commerce Pkwy, Bunnell, FL 32110. Persons with disabilities needing assistance to attend this proceeding should contact the Bunnell City Clerk at (386) 437-7500 x 5 at least 48-business hours prior to the meeting. NOTICE: If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Planning, Zoning, and Appeals Board on this matter a recording of the proceeding may be needed and for such purposes the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record is made which includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is based. (Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes)
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE CITY OF BUNNELL, FLORIDA will hold
a Public Hearing as authorized by law at 6:00 P.M. on the 6th day of October 2026, for the purpose of hearing a special exception to allow a transitional housing and recovery campus (Application No. SE-2026-12), before the Planning, Zoning and Appeals Board, in the Chambers Meeting Room of the Bunnell Administration Complex located at 2400 Commerce Pkwy, Bunnell, Florida 32110. SE-2026-12 REQUESTING APPROVAL FOR A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE ON PARCEL ID: 15-12- 30-0000-02022-0020 TO ALLOW A TRANSITIONAL HOUSING AND RECOVERY CAMPUS WITHIN THE B-1 ZONING DISTRICT. ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE as may be legally permitted on the day of the meeting. Instructions on how to participate by electronic or other means, if legally permitted, would be found on the City of Bunnell's website at www.bunnellcity.us on the homepage. The public is advised to check the City's website for up-to-date information on any changes to the manner in which the meeting will be held and the location. The failure of a person to appear during said hearing and comment on or object to the special exception, either in person or in writing, might preclude the ability of such person to contest the special exception at a later date. A copy of all pertinent information to this special exception can be obtained at the Bunnell Administration Complex, 2400 Commerce Pkwy, Bunnell, FL 32110. Persons with disabilities needing assistance to attend this proceeding should contact the Bunnell City Clerk at (386) 437-7500 x 5 at least 48-business hours prior to the meeting. NOTICE: If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Planning, Zoning, and Appeals Board on this matter a recording of the proceeding may be needed and for such purposes the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record is made which includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is based. (Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes)
|
The Hammock
|
Ormond Beach
The Clerk of the Court, Tom Bexley will sell to the highest bidder for cash at https:// flagler.realforeclose.com/ on November 13, 2026 at 11:00:00 AM EST the following described real property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 38, BLOCK 10, OF PALM COAST MAP OF BELLE TERRE, SECTION 11, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 6, PAGES 59 THROUGH 67, INCLUSIVE, AS AMENDED BY INSTRUMENT RECORDED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 35, PAGE 528, 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 18th day of September, 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: /s/ Mola R. Bosland FBN: 030330 2026.09.18 10:36:17-04’00’ Mola Bosland, Esq. FBN: 30330 Primary E-Mail: ServiceMail@aldridgepite.com 1221-15879B Ref# 25526 Sept. 24; Oct. 1, 2026 26-00322G
FIRST INSERTION Notice of Self Storage Sale Please take notice Prime Storage - Flagler Beach located at 2100 Avenue A Flagler Beach FL 32136 intends to hold a sale to sell the property stored at the Facility by the below list of Occupants who are in default at an Auction. The sale will occur as an online auction via www.storagetreasures.com on 10/13/2026 at 12:00 PM. Unless stated otherwise the description of the contents are household goods, furnishings and garage essentials. Elizabeth M Ouradnik; April D Bowser-Crawford; Jason M Beams (2 Units); Donna J Cialone; Jean Paul Archambault; Ronald T Schmitt. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply. See manager for details. Sept. 24; Oct. 1, 2026 26-00320G
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE No.: 2026 CA 000579 KOLREI INTERNATIONAL, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. LISA LOVELESS, and all others claiming by, through and under LISA LOVELESS, DARREN RODRIGUEZ, and all others claiming by, through and under DARREN RODRIGUEZ, STACEY RODRIGUEZ, and all others claiming by, through and under STACEY RODRIGUEZ and ANDREW SCIUMBATA deceased and all others claiming by, through and under ANDREW SCIUMBATA, deceased, Defendant, TO: LISA LOVELESS, and all others claiming by, through and under LISA LOVELESS, DARREN RODRIGUEZ, and all others claiming by, through and under DARREN RODRIGUEZ, STACEY RODRIGUEZ, and all others claiming by, through and under STACEY RODRIGUEZ and ANDREW SCIUMBATA deceased and all others claiming by, through and under ANDREW SCIUMBATA, deceased, YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to quiet the title on the following real property in Flagler County, Florida: Lot 10, Block 58, Daytona North, according to the map or plat thereof, as recorded in Plat Book 10, Page(s) 1 through 15, inclusive, of the Public Records of Flagler County, Florida. a/k/a 2956 Persimmon St Bunnell, FL 32110. has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on J.D. Manzo, of Manzo & Associates, P.A., Plaintiff ’s attorney, whose address is 4767 New Broad Street, Orlando, FL 32814, telephone number (407) 514-2692, on or before 30 DAYS FROM THE 1ST PUBLICATION, 2026, and file the original with the Clerk of this Court either before service on Plaintiff ’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered DATED this 9/18/2026 day of September 2026. Clerk of the Circuit Court (SEAL) By: Amy Perez As Deputy Clerk Sept. 24; Oct. 1, 8, 15, 2026 26-00324G
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 2025 CA 000358 MORTGAGE RESEARCH CENTER, LLC D/B/A VETERANS UNITED HOME LOANS, A MISSOURI LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, Plaintiff, vs. BRIAN DAVID PUCKETT A/K/A BRIAN D. PUCKETT AND MELANIE MARIE PUCKETT, et al. Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated August 18, 2026, and entered in 2025 CA 000358 of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH Judicial Circuit in and for Flagler County, Florida, wherein MORTGAGE RESEARCH CENTER, LLC D/B/A VETERANS UNITED HOME LOANS, A MISSOURI LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY is the Plaintiff and MELANIE MARIE PUCKETT; GOODLEAP, LLC are the Defendant(s). TOM W. BEXLEY as the Clerk of the Circuit Court will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash at https://flagler.realforeclose.com, at 11:00 AM, on October 16, 2026, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 14, BLOCK 23, ROYAL PALMS-SECTION 30 PALM COAST, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 10, PAGE 30, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. Property Address: 133 RAE DR, PALM COAST, FL 32164 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 in accordance with Florida Statutes, Section 45.031. 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, 101 N. Alabama Ave., Ste D-305, Deland, FL 32724, (386) 257-6096. Hearing or voice impaired, please call 711. Dated this 21 day of September, 2026. ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff 6409 Congress Ave., Suite 100 Boca Raton, FL 33487 Telephone: 561-241-6901 Facsimile: 561-997-6909 Service Email: flmail@raslg.com By: \S\Danielle Salem Danielle Salem, Esquire Florida Bar No. 0058248 Communication Email: dsalem@raslg.com 25-276438 - NaP Sept. 24; Oct. 1, 2026 26-00323G
The Observer is everywhere. The print edition is free. Look for it on more than 100 newsstands.
Let us bring you one! 7763-360696 Sep. 24, 2026
Daytona Beach
FIRST INSERTION 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 000393 CITIBANK, N.A., NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR NEW RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2017-6, 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 MIGUEL REYES A/K/A MIGUEL A. REYES, DECEASED; RACHEL REYES; MICKEY REYES; MICHAEL REYES; CHRISTOPHER REYES; UNKNOWN TENANT #1 N/K/A SHELLSEA MONGE; UNKNOWN TENANT #2 N/K/A WILLAM CRUZ; ALBERTO MIGUEL REYES; Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that sale will be made pursuant to an Order or Final Judgment. An Amended Final Judgment was awarded on June 17, 2026 in Civil Case No. 2024 CA 000393, of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH Judicial Circuit in and for Flagler County, Florida, wherein, CITIBANK, N.A., NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR NEW RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2017-6 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 MIGUEL REYES A/K/A MIGUEL A. REYES, DECEASED; RACHEL REYES; MICKEY REYES; MICHAEL REYES; CHRISTOPHER REYES; UNKNOWN TENANT #1 N/K/A SHELLSEA MONGE; UNKNOWN TENANT #2 N/K/A WILLAM CRUZ; ALBERTO MIGUEL REYES are Defendants.
Pick one up!
7763-360698 Sep. 24, 2026
|
Sign up for driveway delivery: $52 per year.
ObserverLocalNews.com
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
NOTICE OF REZONING Pursuant to Section 2.07.00, Flagler County Land Development Code, and Chapter 125, Florida Statutes, the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners hereby provides notice of consideration of Project No. 2026070041 submitted by Applicant Penny Buckles on behalf of property owner, Lewmc, Inc and possible adoption of an Ordinance titled similar to: AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA AMENDING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF A TOTAL OF 1.1 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, LYING IN SECTION 25, TOWNSHIP 12 SOUTH, RANGE 38 EAST; FROM AC (AGRICULTURE) DISTRICT TO MH-1 (RURAL MOBILE HOME) DISTRICT; PROVIDING FOR FINDINGS; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE Public hearings on the above-captioned matter will be held as follows: PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT BOARDRecommendation to Board of County Commissioners on Rezoning – October 13, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the Flagler County Government Services Building, Board Chambers, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building 2, Bunnell, Florida, 32110. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS – Rezoning - November 16, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible in the Flagler County Government Services Building, Board Chambers, 1769 E. Moody Boulevard, Building 2, Bunnell, Florida. All interested persons are urged to attend these public hearings and be heard. Anyone wishing to express their opinion may attend, telephone 386313-4009 or write to: Flagler County Planning Department, 1769 E. Moody Blvd, Building 2, Bunnell, FL 32110 or email to planningdept@flaglercounty.gov. Copies of the proposal, supporting data and analysis, staff reports and other pertinent information are available for review at the Flagler County Planning & Zoning Dept., 1769 East Moody Boulevard, Bldg, 2, Bunnell, Florida 32110. IF A PERSON DECIDES TO APPEAL ANY DECISION MADE BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WITH RESPECT TO ANY MATTER CONSIDERED AT THE MEETING, A RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS MAY BE NEEDED AND, FOR SUCH PURPOSES, THE PERSON MAY NEED TO ENSURE THAT A VERBATIM RECORD IS MADE, WHICH RECORD INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY AND EVIDENCE UPON WHICH APPEAL IS TO BE BASED. IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT, PERSONS NEEDING
ASSISTANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN ANY OF THESE PROCEEDINGS SHOULD CONTACT THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT AT LEAST 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING. 7763-360705 Sep. 24, 2026 NOTICE TO ALL PROPERTY OWNERS AND TAXPAYERS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Flagler County Value Adjustment Board, in compliance with Section 196.194, Florida Statutes, will meet in the Flagler County Government Services Building, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building 2, Bunnell, Florida, on October 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., and from time to time thereafter as needed, to hear petitions relating to assessments, to hear complaints relating to homestead exemptions, to hear appeals from exemptions denied, or disputes arising from exemptions granted, upon the filing of exemption applications, and to hear appeals concerning ad valorem tax deferrals and classifications. Separate list of applicants for exemptions which have been wholly or partially approved by the Property Appraiser, and of applicants for exemptions which have been denied by the Property Appraiser, are maintained for public view in the County Property Appraiser’s Office, Second Floor, Flagler County Government Services Building, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building 2, Bunnell, Florida, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The lists include applicants for the following exemptions or classifications: Homestead – all categories; Certain permanently and totally disabled veterans; Disabled veterans confined to wheelchairs; Permanently and totally disabled persons; Renewable energy sources; Charitable, religious, scientific or literary uses and additional exemptions relating thereto; Educational property; Property owned and used by labor organizations; Certain agreements with local governments for use of public property; Economic Development; Not-for-Profit sewer and water company property; Widows and blind persons; Tangible personal property; and Agricultural property Any taxpayer may bring an action to contest a tax assessment pursuant to F.S. 194.171. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons needing assistance to participate in any of these proceedings should contact the Value Adjustment Board at (386) 313-4400 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. TOM BEXLEY, Clerk & Comptroller
FIRST INSERTION 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 sell to the highest bidder for cash at https:// flagler.realforeclose.com/ on November 13, 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 14th day of September, 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: /s/ Zachary Ullman 2026.09.14 13:06:45-04’00’ Zachary Ullman, Esq. FBN: 106751 Primary E-Mail: ServiceMail@aldridgepite.com 1395-1316B Ref# 25167 Sept. 24; Oct. 1, 2026 26-00321G
FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION: 53 CASE NO.: 2025 CA 000721 U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BINOM SECURITIZATION TRUST 2022-INV1, Plaintiff, vs. ZANDER HOLDING GROUP, LLC A/K/A PALM COAST HOLDING GROUP LLC; JAY TODD BUCH; BRIAN RUTHERFORD; UNKNOWN TENANT Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to an Order or Final Judgment entered in the above styled cause now pending in said court and as required by Florida Statute 45.031(2), TOM W. BEXLEY as the Clerk of the Circuit Court for FLAGLER County shall sell to the highest and best bidder for cash electronically at www.flagler. realforeclose.com at, 11:00 AM on the 06 day of November, 2026, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit: Lot 8, Block 7, of Palm Coast, Map of Country Club Cove, Section 8, a subdivision according to the plat or map thereof, described in Map Book 6, Page 29, of the Public Records of Flagler County, Florida; as amended by instrument recorded in Official Records Book 35, at Page 528, of the Public Records of Flagler County, Florida. PROPERTY ADDRESS: 1 CLARK LN, PALM COAST, FL 32137 IF YOU ARE A PERSON CLAIMING A
RIGHT TO FUNDS REMAINING AFTER THE SALE, YOU MUST FILE A CLAIM WITH THE CLERK NO LATER THAN THE DATE THAT THE CLERK REPORTS THE FUNDS AS UNCLAIMED. IF YOU FAIL TO FILE A CLAIM, YOU WILL NOT BE ENTITLED TO ANY REMAINING FUNDS. AFTER THE FUNDS ARE REPORTED AS UNCLAIMED, ONLY THE OWNER OF RECORD AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MAY CLAIM THE SURPLUS. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Court Administration -ADA Coordinator, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Bldg. 1, 2nd floor, Bunnell FL 32110, (386) 257-6096, ADARequest@circuit7. org, at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately on receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711. Dated this 22 day of September 2026. By: /s/ Lindsay Maisonet Lindsay Maisonet, Esq. Bar Number: 93156 Submitted by: De Cubas & Lewis, P.A. PO Box 5026 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33310 Telephone: (954) 453-0365 Facsimile: (954) 771-6052 Toll Free: 1-800-441-2438 DESIGNATED PRIMARY E-MAIL FOR SERVICE PURSUANT TO FLA. R. JUD. ADMIN 2.516 eservice@decubaslewis.com 25-02911 Sept. 24; Oct. 1, 2026 26-00325G
VALUE ADJUSTMENT BOARD 7763-359942 Sep. 24, 2026 NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Please take notice Go Store It - Flagler Beach located at 4601 E. Moody Blvd. Suite A7, Bunnell, FL 32110 intends to hold a public sale to the highest bidder of household goods and other personal property stored in the following units: P27 John Iles 125 Rachael Mooring 202 Rachael Mooring 212 Kyna Walter 239 Anthony Coffey 327 Valie Green Sale will be held 10/8/2026 at 11:30am via storagetreasures.com. Pursuant to Florida Statute § 83.806. 7763-358379 Sep. 17, 24, 2026 LEGAL NOTICE Dr. Lidya Lataban Lopez is no longer with Conviva Palm Coast as of Sept. 29, 2026. Current patients will automatically be transferred to another provider at the center. If you are a patient and you choose not to continue care at Conviva Palm Coast, you can obtain your medical records by calling 386-586-7005. 7763-357066 Sep. 3, 10, 17, 24, 2026 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 Premier Piano Artistry, located at 28 Putter Dr, in the City of Palm Coast, Flagler County, FL 32164, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated 9/18/2026. Haley Myers 7763-360585 Sep. 24, 2026
SUBSEQUENT INSERTIONS SECOND INSERTION NOTICE OF ACTION IN THE COUNTY COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO. 2026 CC 001153 Division: 61 Jamie Ann Turk, Plaintiff, vs. The Estate of Jimmie Lee Nibert and Norma May Nibert, the Unknown Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, and all other parties claiming an interest by, through, under or against them, Defendant, And Debra Young, CoDefendant, And STATE OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HIGHWAY SAFETY AND MOTOR VEHICLES, CoDefendant TO: The Estate of Jimmie Lee Nibert and Norma May Nibert, the Unknown Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, and all other parties claiming an interest by, through, under or against them, YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Declaratory Judgment has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on the Plaintiff, whose address is: Jamie Ann Turk, 5 Apache St, Palm Coast, FL 32137, on or before 20 days from first publication and file the original with the clerk of this court either before service on the Plaintiff or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint. DATED on: 9/9/2026 TOM BEXLEY As Clerk of Circuit Court & Comptroller (SEAL) By: Sasha Harrell As Deputy Clerk Sept. 17, 24; Oct. 1, 8, 2026 26-00309G
SECOND INSERTION NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF FLORIDA IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 2025 CA 000812 NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, Plaintiff, vs. WILLIAM UNDERWOOD AKA WILLIAM SHELBY UNDERWOOD A/K/A WILLIAM S. UNDERWOOD, et al., Defendant. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Summary Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered August 4, 2026 in Civil Case No. 2025 CA 000812 of the Circuit Court of the SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT in and for Flagler County, Bunnell, Florida, wherein NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC is Plaintiff and William Underwood AKA William Shelby Underwood a/k/a William S. Underwood, et al., are Defendants, the Flagler County Clerk of Court, TOM W. BEXLEY, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash online via https://flagler. realforeclose.com/index.cfm in accordance with Chapter 45, Florida Statutes on the 2nd day of October, 2026 at 11:00 AM on the following described property as set forth in said Summary Final Judgment, to-wit: Lot 10, Block 4, Palm Coast, Map of Wynnfield, Section 22, according to the map or plat thereof, recorded in Plat Book 8, Page(s) 3 through 20, 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. 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 1 (800) 955-8770. /s/Robyn Katz Robyn Katz, Esq. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLP Attorney for Plaintiff 225 East Robinson Street, Suite 155 Orlando, FL 32801 Phone: (407) 674-1850 Fax: (321) 248-0420 Email: MRService@mccalla.com Fla. Bar No.: 146803 25-12786FL September 17, 24, 2026 26-00315G
7C
SUBSEQUENT INSERTIONS SECOND INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 182026CP000432AXXX01 Division Probate IN RE: ESTATE OF BRANDON J. DURAR Deceased. The administration of the estate of Brandon J. Durar, deceased, whose date of death was June 21, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Kim C. Hammond Justice Center, 1769 East Moody Boulevard, Building 1, Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is September 17, 2026. Personal Representative: /s/ Edward J Willie (Jul 29, 2026 21:31:15 EDT) Edward J. Willie 1 Satinwood Road Bayville, New York 11709-1811 Attorney for Personal Representative: /s/ Danielle Greenberg Danielle Greenberg, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 109473 DANIELLE B GREENBERG 1995 East Oakland Park Blvd Suite 315 Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33306 Telephone: (954) 289-0138 Fax: (954) 289-1007 E-Mail: greenberg.attorney@gmail.com Secondary E-Mail: greenberg.assistant@gmail.com September 17, 24, 2026 26-00310G
SECOND INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS File No. 2026 CP 000403 Estate of Ivor Washington Roberts, Deceased The administration of the Estate of Ivor Washington Roberts, deceased, whose date of death was April 15, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building 1, Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE 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 September 17, 2026. Personal Representative: Desiree Eades 17 Flarestone Court Palm Coast, Florida 32137 Attorney for Personal Representative: Brian R. Giaquinto Florida Bar No. 0105927 brian@giaquintolegal.com 1616 Concierge Blvd., Suite 100 Daytona Beach, FL 32117 September 17, 24, 2026 26-00317G
OFFICIAL
COURT HOUSE WEBSITES: FLAGLER COUNTY flaglerclerk.com VOLUSIA COUNTY clerk.org
SECOND INSERTION NOTICE OF SALE PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 45 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL ACTION CASE NO.: 2025 CA 000474 DIVISION: 2 FINANCE OF AMERICA REVERSE LLC, Plaintiff, vs. THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, OR OTHER CLAIMANTS CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER, OR AGAINST, CYNTHIA J.WEST AKA CYNTHIA JOYCE WEST, DECEASED , et al, Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN Pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated August 10, 2026, and entered in Case No. 2025 CA 000474 of the Circuit Court of the Seventh Judicial Circuit in and for Flagler County, Florida in which Finance of America Reverse LLC, is the Plaintiff and The Unknown Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, Assignees, Lienors, Creditors, Trustees, or other Claimants claiming by, through, under, or against, Cynthia J.West aka Cynthia Joyce West, deceased , United States of America Acting through Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Pauline Petrulah West, Garfield West, Hugh Rainford, Elaine Henry Johnson, are defendants, the Flagler County Clerk of the Circuit Court will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash in/on online at www.flagler.realforeclose.com, Flagler County, Florida at 11:00AM on the October 2, 2026 the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment of Foreclosure: LOT 5, OF BLOCK 44, OF PALM
COAST, MAP OF WYNNFIELD, SECTION 18, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 7, PAGE 24, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA. A/K/A 74 WYNNFIELD DRIVE PALM COAST FL 32164 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. ATTENTION: PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES If you are a person with a disability who needs an accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Court Administration, 125 E. Orange Ave., Ste. 300, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, 386-257-6096, within 2 days of your receipt of this notice. If you are hearing impaired, call 1-800955-8771; if you are voice impaired, call 1-800-955-8770. THIS IS NOT A COURT INFORMATION LINE. To file response please contact Flagler County Clerk of Court, 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building 1, Bunnell, FL 32110, Tel: (386) 313-465; Fax: (386) 4371928. Dated this 04 day of September, 2026. ALBERTELLI LAW P. O. Box 23028 Tampa, FL 33623 Tel: (813) 221-4743 Fax: (813) 221-9171 EService: servealaw@albertellilaw.com By: /s/ Robyn Sherer Florida Bar #1030716 Robyn Sherer Esq. IN/25-009529 September 17, 24, 2026 26-00316G
SECOND INSERTION
SECOND INSERTION
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION 48 File # 2026 CP 26 IN RE: THE ESTATE OF IRENE C. BLASCO, Deceased. The administration of the Estate of IRENE C. BLASCO, Deceased, whose date of death was August 15, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Kim C. Hammond Justice Center, 1769 E. Moody Blvd, Bldg. 1, Bunnell, Florida 32110. The name and address of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the Decedent’s Estate on whom a copy of this Notice is required to be served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against Decedent’s Estate must file their claims with this Court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA STATUTES WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. Joan I. Blasco-Paul, 4 Blue Heron Lane, Palm Coast, FL 32137 James P. Blasco, II, 97 Voyager Court, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 Co-Personal Representatives The first publication of this notice is September 17, 2026. /s/ Andrea Burns ANDREA BURNS, ESQ. Florida Bar Number: 1031966 Geiger Law, PLLC Post Office Box 352951 Palm Coast, FL 32135 (386) 264-6937 telephone Attorney for Personal Representatives andrea@386lawfirm.com September 17, 24, 2026 26-00313G
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 7th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR FLAGLER COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION 48 File # 2026 CP 449 IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JERRY LEE HENDERSON, Deceased. The administration of the Estate of JERRY LEE HENDERSON, Deceased, whose date of death was June 9, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Kim C. Hammond Justice Center, 1769 E. Moody Blvd, Bldg. 1, Bunnell, Florida 32110. The name and address of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the Decedent’s Estate on whom a copy of this Notice is required to be served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against Decedent’s Estate must file their claims with this Court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA STATUTES WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. Kerry Lawson, Personal Representative, 407 Creekside Drive, Taylorsville, KY 40071 The first publication of this notice is September 17, 2026. /s/ Andrea Burns ANDREA BURNS, ESQ. Florida Bar Number: 1031966 Geiger Law, PLLC Post Office Box 352951 Palm Coast, FL 32135 (386) 264-6937 telephone Attorney for Personal Representative andrea@386lawfirm.com September 17, 24, 2026 26-00314G
SECOND INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS File No. 2026 CP00426 Estate of Russell Newcomb Shaw, Deceased The administration of the Estate of Russell Newcomb Shaw deceased, whose date of death was April 28, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building 1, Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE 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 September 17, 2026. Personal Representative: Sharon Gorea, Petitioner 5989 N. Ocean Shore Blvd. Palm Coast, FL 32137 Attorney for Personal Representative: Brian R. Giaquinto Florida Bar No. 0105927 brian@giaquintolegal.com 1616 Concierge Blvd., Suite 100 Daytona Beach, FL 32117 September 17, 24, 2026 26-00318G
SECOND INSERTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS File No. 2026 CP 000422 Estate of Anna Marie Monteleone, Deceased The administration of the Estate of Anna Marie Monteleone, deceased, whose date of death was March 8, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Flagler County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 1769 E. Moody Blvd., Building 1, Bunnell, FL 32110. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE 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 September 17, 2026. Personal Representative: Raymond Monteleone 3121 Middletown Road, Apt 9F Bronx, NY 10461 Attorney for Personal Representative: Brian R. Giaquinto Florida Bar No. 0105927 brian@giaquintolegal.com 1616 Concierge Blvd., Suite 100 Daytona Beach, FL 32117 September 17, 24, 2026 26-00319G
GEICO is GEICO is now available GEICO is GEICO is now available GEICO is in our agency. GEICO is GEICO is now available now available GEICO is in our agency. GEICO is now available now available now available GEICO is agency. now available in our agency. in our now available in our agency. now available in our agency. in agency. inour our agency. Competitive rates
Outstanding
Easy access to
to offer our localexpertise insuranc We’re excited toWe’re offerexcited our local insurance along with the benefitsOutstanding of GEICO. Competitive rates Easy access along with the benefits of GEICO. and with savings experience great cover along the benefitsclaims of GEICO.
along with the benefits of GEICO.
and with savings experience greatalong coverage along the benefitsclaims of GEICO. with the benefits of GEICO. We’re excited to offer local insurance expertise We’re excited toour offer our local insurance expertise
s is O vailable lable agency. able ency. ble ency. ncy. 8C
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
See your home in the best natural light.
| The | Ormond Beach | Daytona Palm Coast Hammock Beach Competitive rates Outstanding Easy access to
Competitive rates Outstanding Easy access to andexperience savings claims experience and savings great coverage Competitive ratesclaims Outstanding Easy access togreat coverage
and savings rates Competitive and savings
Competitive rates
Outstanding
Competitive rates Outstanding Easy access to Call to get a GEICO quote today! and savings claims experience great coverage We’re excited to offer our local insurance expertise Insurance Agency Call to get a GEICO qu Call to get aReiter GEICO quote today!
a GEICO quote today! Insurance Agen along with the benefits of GEICO. Reiter Insurance AgencyCall to get Call to get aReiter GEICO quote today! We’re excited to offer our local insurance expertise 386-698-2400 Reiter Insurance AgencyCall to get a GE Reiter Insurance Agency 386-698-2400 386-698-2400 along with the benefits of GEICO. Call to get a GEICO quote today! Reiter Insuranc 386-698-2400 Call to get a GEICO quot We’re excited to offer our local insurance expertise 386-698-2400 Call to Insurance get a GEICO quote today! We’re excited to offer our local insurance expertise Reiter Agency Call to get a386-698-2400 GEICO quot along with the benefits of GEICO. We’re excited to offer our local insurance expertise We’re excited to offer our local insurance expertise Reiter Insurance Agency Reiter Insurance Agency We’re excited to offer our localexpertise insurance expertise We’re excited to offer our local along with the benefits of GEICO. Competitive rates Outstanding Easy access to We’re excited to offer our local insurance Reiter Insurance Agency 386-698-2400 along with the benefits of GEICO. along with the benefits of GEICO. and savings claims experience great coverage insurance expertise along with along with the benefits GEICO. We’re excited to offer our local insurance expertise 386-698-2400 We’re excited to offer our local insurance expertise along with the benefits ofof GEICO. Competitive rates Outstanding Easy access to 386-698-2400 along with the benefits of GEICO. are owned and operated by independent contractors/agents of the386-698-2400 GEICO companies. the benefits of benefits GEICO.claims and savings experience great coverageLocations along with the of GEICO. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko® image © 1999-2024. © 2024 GEICO.
inour our agency. in agency.
Locations are owned and operated by independent contractors/agents of the GEICO companies. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko® image © 1999-2024. © 2024 GEICO.
Locations are owned and operated by independent contractors/agents of the GEICO companies. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko® image © 1999-2024. © 2024 GEICO.
Locations are owned and operated by independent contractors/agen GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insura
20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko® image © Locations are owned and operated by independent contractors/agents of the GEICO companies. Competitive rates Outstanding Easy access to Locations are owned and operated by indep GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC Competitive rates Outstanding Easy access to GEICO is a registered service mark of Gover 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko® image © 1999-2024. © 2024 GEICO. and savings claims experience great coverage 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiar and savings great coverage Competitive ratesclaims experience Outstanding Easy access to Locations are owned and operated by independent contractors/agents of
Competitive rates
Outstanding
Easy access to
Competitive rates Outstanding Easy access to the GEICO companies. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government andexperience savings claims experience and savings rates claims experience coverage and savings claims great coverage Competitive rates Outstanding Easy access tocoverage Competitive Outstanding Easygreat access togreat
and savings and savings rates Competitive and savings
Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire
are owned and operated by independent contractors/agents of the GEICO companies.Locations are owned and operated by independent contractors/agents of the claims experience coverage claims experience great coverage Outstanding Easygreat access to Locations Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICOCompany, Gecko®Washington, imageGEICO © 1999-2026. © 2026 GEICO. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance DC is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Comp 20076;quote a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko® image © 1999-2024. © 2024 GEICO. a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko® image © 1999-20 Call to get a coverage GEICO today! Locations are owned and operated by independent contractors/agents of the GEICO companies.20076; Locations are owned and operated by independent contractors/agents of the claims experience great GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington,GEICO DC is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Comp
Call to get a GEICO quote today!
Insurance Agency Call to get aReiter GEICO quote today! Insurance Call to get aReiter GEICO quote today! Call toAgency get a GEICO quote today! Reiter Insurance Agency
20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko® image © 1999-20 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko® image © 1999-2024. © 2024 GEICO.
Front page advertising. You pick the neighborhood. 386-698-2400 Reiter Insurance AgencyCall to get a GEICO quote today! Reiter Insurance Agency 386-698-2400 386-698-2400
Reiter Insurance Agency Call to get a GEICO quote today! 386-698-2400
• Exactly what you want at the best possible price • Personalized recommendations • 30 years of experience • Family owned and operated
Contact us today (386) 403-1484 bestblindguys@gmail.com • www.bestblindguys.com
Visit Italy, in Flagler Beach.
Call to get a GEICO quote today! Call to get a386-698-2400 GEICO quote today! Reiter Insurance Agency 386-698-2400 Call to get a GEICO quote today! Reiter Insurance Agency Reiter Insurance Agency Reiter Insurance Agency 386-698-2400 386-698-2400 386-698-2400 386-698-2400
Locations are owned and operated by independent contractors/agents of the GEICO companies.
Locations are owned and operated by mark independent contractors/agents of the GEICO companies. GEICO is a registered service of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC GEICO 20076; is a registered serviceHathaway mark of Government Employees Company, Washington,©DC a Berkshire Inc. subsidiary. GEICOInsurance Gecko® image © 1999-2024. 2024 GEICO. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko® image © 1999-2024. © 2024 GEICO.
Locations are owned and operated by independent contractors/agents of the GEICO companies.
Locations are owned and operated by independent contractors/agents of the GEICO companies. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC a Berkshire Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko® image ©©1999-2024. 20076; a20076; Berkshire HathawayHathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko® image © 1999-2024. 2024 GEICO.© 2024 GEICO. Locations areoperated owned and operated bycontractors/agents independent contractors/agents of the GEICO companies. Locations are owned and by independent of the GEICO companies. GEICO is aservice registered mark ofEmployees Government Employees Insurance Company, GEICO is a registered mark service of Government Insurance Company, Washington, DC Washington, DC 20076; Hathaway a Berkshire subsidiary. Gecko® image © 1999-2024. 20076; a Berkshire Inc.Hathaway subsidiary.Inc. GEICO Gecko® GEICO image © 1999-2024. © 2024 GEICO. © 2024 GEICO.
Locations are owned operated by independent contractors/agents of the GEICOof companies. Locations areand owned and operated by independent contractors/agents the GEICO companies. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko® image © 1999-2024. © 2024 GEICO. Locations are owned and operated by independent contractors/agents the GEICO companies. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko®of image © 1999-2024. © 2024 GEICO. Locations are owned and operated by independent contractors/agents of the GEICO companies. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, 20076; GEICO a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko® image © 1999-2024. © 2024 GEICO. Washington, DC
Direct mail, but better. — the most powerful marketing tool The Hammock has ever seen. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko® image © 1999-2024. © 2024 GEICO.
Call April Koehler today! april@observerlocalnews.com (386) 447-9723
Observer
r our local insurance expertise al insurance expertise its of GEICO.
ICO. nsurance expertise urance expertise O.
308 S Ocean Shore Blvd, Flagler Beach, FL 32136 (386) 693-4055 • romerostuscanybythesea.com Mon. 11:30-9:00 pm • Tue. 4:00-9:00 pm • Wed. 11:30-9:00 pm Thu. 4:00-9:00 pm • Fri .& Sat. 11:30 am - 9:30 pm
THE HAMMOCK
Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
VOLUME 1, NO. 37
With one last remaining Senate Bill in play, Flagler officials say there’s a ‘slim’ chance for state’s help. PAGE 8A
At Petito’s exit, staff wears black
What projects are ongoing in the Hammock?
County leader’s last day will be July 14.
SIERRA WILLIAMS
PAGE 3A INSIDE NEW WALMART
Walmart confirmed as new retailer for SR 100, west of BJ’s Wholesale. PAGE 5B
CARNEY’S TAKE
Flagler County Commissioner calls controversial Veranda Bay development an ‘illegal annexation.’ PAGE 6A
ELECTION RESULTS R.J. Santore, Scott Spradley take home Flagler Beach Commission election. PAGE 6A
INDEX
Business .................... PAGE 5B Calendar .................... PAGE 2B Cops Corner ...............PAGE 2A Crossword ................PAGE 10B Letters ......................PAGE 12A Public Notices ........... PAGE 5C Schools ...................... PAGE 4B Sports ........................ PAGE 8B Tributes ..................... PAGE 4C Real Estate ................ PAGE 6B
Hammock Community Association hosts Q+A with county employees. STAFF WRITER
Hammock residents had an opportunity on March 3 to talk to county employees about projects going on in The Hammock. The Hammock Community Association invited HCA members and Hammock residents to the MalaCompra Community Center on March 3 to hear from Flagler County employees about projects ongoing in The Hammock. HCA President Lora Stillman said this was a great opportunity for Hammock residents to get to know who works for them at the county and to ask questions. “A lot of the residents in The Hammock either don’t have time and the capability to get into the County Commission meetings,” Stillman said. “And at the County Commission meetings, you don’t generally get the department heads speaking.” Three department heads came out to the HCA meeting to answer questions: Parks & Recreation manager Denny Bobik, Public Lands and Natural Resource and Environmentally Sensitive Lands manager Erick Revuelta and county engineer Hamid Tabassian. Commissioner Greg Hansen was scheduled to attend but had to cancel at the last minute. Tabassian’s department deals with construction projects and the beach management projects.
In The Hammock, his department is working on a road improvement project in Jungle Hut Road that will begin construction in 2029 and he is working on submitting a grant for a pedestrian hybrid signal at MalaCompra Road and A1A. The drainage improvement project for First Avenue is now in the permitting phase, and is anticipated to send the project to bid over the summer and construction completed “by the end of the year.” The MalaCompra Canal expansion is still in the design phase, he said. Once the design is finished, he said, they will likely have another public workshop with Hammock residents. The Hammock falls into Reach 3 of the county’s beach renourishment plan, Varn Park to Washington Oaks State Park, which is still in the design phase. “That work is going to be challenging, to be honest, to get that done, because we have a lot of hardbottom in this area,” Tabassian said. In the meantime, the county has submitted paperwork to designate Reach 3 as critically eroded. If approved, that will give the county more state funding for the renourishment of that area of shoreline. “We are very optimistic that that is going to go through,” Tabassian said. “Out of the 18 miles of the coast, a little bit over 10 miles is already designated as critically eroded.” Revuelta said the Land Management Office was recently moved over to the River-to-Sea Preserve. Their office manages invasive species on conservation lands in the county, and works on procuxring
“A lot of the residents in The Hammock either don’t have time and the capability to get into the County
FREE
Commission meeting, and at the County Commission
ON NEWSSTANDS.
meetings, you don’t generally get the department
$1/WEEK
heads speaking.”
ON YOUR DRIVEWAY.
YOUR AD HERE
RUNWAY RACERS PAGE 1B
FREE ON NEWSSTANDS | THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 2026
Flagler County hopes bill will help fund the beach
LORA STILLMAN, President of the Hammock Community Association
County engineer Hamid Tabassian speaks to the Hammock Community Association about local projects. Photo by Sierra Williams
more conservation land for the county. The ESL program has acquired around 6,000 acres of conservation land. In The Hammock, he said, they are working on buy land from JDI Marineland and 40 acres of land between the Intracoastal and S.R. A1A near the Beach Haven development on the north end of the county and the 21-acre Cedar Point property. In the case of the 40 acre property and the Cedar Point property, the county is not looking to turn those into a park, Revuelta said, but instead place a conservation easement. Conservation easements limit the type and amount of development that can occur on a property and are less expensive while still preserving land. “So it stretches your money while still having some protection, but it’s not going to be a park,” he
said. Parks and Recreation maintains the trails and parks across the county, including the 32 parks, with a crew of just 12. Bobik said he gets a lot of emails from The Hammock residents and it helps his team tremendously. “There are times where we need y’all’s eyes on to let us know this has happened or a tree has fallen,” Bobik said. Stillman said listening to the projects under the county’s eye, she is always thinking of other areas of improvement, especially when it comes to land conservation. For every oak tree cut down, she said, the environment and wildlife on the barrier island is impacted. “It’s just something that we on the board of directors feel really, really committed to making sure that we try to preserve the nature, try to preserve the lifestyle,” Stillman said.
OBSERVER 50 LEANNI WAY, UNIT C3 PALM COAST, FL 32137
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PALM COAST, FL PERMIT 175
*********ECRWSSEDDM**** POSTAL CUSTOMER PALM COAST, FL 32137
Coastal living at its best offered by the best 12 Crain Court PALM HARBOR
Portofino #201
Custom waterfront home on a tip lot offering approx. 220’ of water frontage and sweeping canal views. Stunning great room with dramatic 22’ ceiling and magnificent curved staircase. 4 / 3 / 2 half / 4,1111 sq. ft. LIST PRICE $1,599,000
SOLD
SOLD Fully updated Portofino condominium offers an open floor plan, multiple balconies, and sweeping ocean and golf views. 4 / 3.5 / 2,840 sq. ft. SOLD $1,525,000
rich hottinger, sr.
krista libby
Judy@HammockDunesFL.com
Rich@HammockDunesFL.com
Krista@HammockDunesFL.com
386.931.5707
386.503.0509
17 Rue Grande Mer
Exceptional residence on the 18th fairway of the Fazio Links Course featuring breathtaking golf and ocean views. Designed for effortless indoor-outdoor living, the home features soaring ceilings, elegant architectural details, and expansive gathering spaces ideal for entertaining. 4 / 4 / 4,686 sq. ft. SOLD $2,749,000
judy barnes
612.298.4040
2 Camino Del Mar | Palm Coast CoastalProsFL.com
The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Site plan is artist rendering, not to scale. Prices, plans and specifications subject to change without notice or obligation. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification.
utstanding Easy access to aims experience great Easy access tocoverage
ience
e
Ea
Competitive rates Outstanding Easy access to claims experience great coverage Outstanding Easy access to andexperience savings claims experience and savings great coverage Competitive ratesclaims Outstanding Easy access togr claims experience great coverage and savings claims experience great coverage
great coverage
Easy access to great coverage Easy access to
great coverage
Call to get a GEICO quote today! Reiter Insurance Agency o get a GEICO quote today!
r Insurance Agency 386-698-2400 et a GEICO quote today!